2022

Symmetry

Journal year: 2022 | Journal volume: vol. 14 | Journal number: no. 2

scientific article

english

EN The article deals with the analysis of the existing full-suspension downhill bicycle’s frame damaged while using and the subsequent conceptual improved design of the critical point. The origin of symmetrical and asymmetrical bicycle loads in individual riding modes is investigated. Subsequently, their impact on the overall load of the frame and especially the identified critical point are assessed. An overview of different full-suspension bicycle frames, complemented by a literature overview of research related to cycling engineering and sport application is introduced. The first phase began with a kinematic analysis of the bicycle suspension system and an effect assessment of the symmetrical or asymmetrical distribution of forces, respectively, in the individual components. Furthermore, a strength analysis of the main frame was performed, taking into account the static and dynamic forces. Based on the results of the analyses performed in the ANSYS/Workbench, a critical frame point, as well as the role of individual driving regimes, were identified. The structural detail of the pocket under the saddle tube together with the asymmetrical combined load generated while out of saddle pedalling proved to be crucial for frame crack initiation and formation. Different design variants with improved stiffness were proposed for the given place. The chosen variant can be successfully implemented due to the final reduction of the maximum stress level approximately two times compared to the original pocket (only 50.4% of the original maximum stress) as well as a simple design and repair of the damaged area in terms of technology.

28.01.2022

255-1 - 255-28

10.3390/sym14020255

https://www.mdpi.com/2073-8994/14/2/255

Article Number: 255

CC BY (attribution alone)

open journal

final published version

at the time of publication

70

2,7