Bicycle front forks and methods of making same
US5692764A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 13, 1993 |
| Grant date | Dec 2, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 13, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S188/01
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention disclosed herein is a very durable, lightweight, front fork assembly for use on competition bicycles. The invention provides improved fatigue and impact resistance compared to prior art designs. The invention makes maximum use of advanced, high strength composite materials and high strength, lightweight metal alloys, improving its stiffness-to-weight and strength-to-weight ratios. The superior structural performance of the invention is provided by a unique section geometry and ply configuration that efficiently utilizes the material to maximize bending and torsional stiffness while minimizing weight. The improved strength also comes from the superior control of the molding process, made possible with a removable pressure bladder that remains connected to the pressure source, and is regulated, during the molding process. The invention is produced using an efficient, "cigar" roll-up procedure where the fiber lay-up is first made in a flat pattern and later rolled up into the final "cigar" roll-up configuration.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.