A Transient Analysis in Bicycle Shifting using A Discrete Chain Model
This article deals with the transient analysis in bicycle shifting using a discrete chain model. Among the various components of a bicycle, we focused in the power-transmissions on the contact points between the chain element and sprocket. And by imposing kinematic motions on the front and rear derailleurs, we analyzed the shifting mechanism for increasing the rotational speed of rear wheel. In order to build the dynamic analysis model, we first tore down the real bicycle and measured each component's design parameters. Then we made 3-dimensional CAD models for each component related to the power transmission of a bicycle. Using the converted 3-dimensional dynamic model for the simulation program, we performed non-shifting and shifting dynamic analysis. As a result, we investigated the dynamic behaviors of a discrete chain model focused on the interaction between the chain and sprocket wheel.