High Performance Light Weight Vehicle Frame
AssigneeTimberWolf Cycles Inc.
InventorDavid J. Timan
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Abstract
This invention relates to polygonal frame structures made from anisotropic materials, and methods for their construction. The polygonal frame structures include at least one frame member that is constructed as a torsion box. The torsion box is constructed with layers of anisotropic materials, resulting in a lightweight, torsionally stiff polygonal frame. Natural and/or man-made anisotropic materials may be used. Wood may be used as a natural anisotropic material. The invention is applicable to bicycles and other vehicles, as well as other products, where frame structures having light weight and torsional stiffness are advantageous.
Claims20
A polygonal frame;
- comprising:
- three or more frame members, at least one frame member comprising a torsion box;
- wherein the torsion box includes at least three panels and first and second ends;
- wherein each panel of the torsion box includes two or more layers of at least one anisotropic material;
- wherein the two or more layers of the at least one anisotropic material are alternatingly disposed at first and second selected grain direction angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the torsion box.
A method for constructing a polygonal frame;
- comprising:
- providing at least three frame members, at least one frame member comprising a torsion box;
- wherein the at least one torsion box includes at least three panels and first and second ends;
- wherein each panel of the at least one torsion box includes two or more layers of at least one anisotropic material;
- the method including
- alternatingly disposing the two or more layers of the at least one anisotropic material at first and second selected grain direction angles relative to a longitudinal axis of the at least one torsion box.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.