A method for improved bicycle shifting performance

Abstract

The overwhelming majority of bicycles, the most common human-powered vehicles (HPVs), are equipped with sophisticated derailleur systems that serve the same purpose as transmissions in motor vehicles: enabling more efficient use of input power through selection of suitable gear reduction ratios. This paper presents a method for improving the performance of bicycle derailleur systems by modifying sprocket shape to eliminate jerkiness, slippage and rattling noise, and guide chain movement from one gear to another mole quickly and directly. The sprocket modification CAD/CAM program, and an integrated optimization tool, were developed on an IRIS INDIGO/4000 workstation.