patents and projects
Patents
Inventor or co-inventor of the following USPTO Patents and Patent Application Publications:
A 6-bar linkage with floating shock design offers a unique advantage by fully decoupling the rear wheel trajectory (Anti-Squat, Anti-Rise, Kickback) from the Leverage Ratio curve. This system enables precise control over the Leverage Ratio curve shape (dL.R./dTravel) while maintaining ideal wheel trajectory, Anti-Squat, Anti-Rise, and kickback characteristics. Notably, it can achieve a zero slope Anti-Rise (dA.R./dT=0) curve throughout the full travel. With no pivots mounted to the top or down tube, the critical pivot points are positioned with greater accuracy, and the front triangle design is lighter. The design also minimizes seat tube piercing, as the shock avoids the seat tube axis, resulting in a lighter frame and accommodating modern full-length dropper posts. The frame’s center of gravity (COG) is strategically placed over and near the bottom bracket for optimal performance. The shock absorber’s heavier end is mounted low in the frame, attached to the least-moving link, which improves the high-frequency response of the suspension. This Watt-Type linkage produces a stiffer, more durable swingarm compared to Stephenson-Type linkages, with longer bearing life due to the absence of two short links near the bottom bracket and chainstay. Additionally, the design allows for a flex-pivot at the chainstay-seatstay pivot, further enhancing suspension performance.
doc tec 160mm enduro 29er prototype
This specific embodiment of the DOC TEC suspension kinematic design is engineered for optimal performance across various suspension parameters. The shock leverage curve offers a soft off-the-top feel, with substantial mid-stroke support and consistant progression towards bottom-out. The low, linear kickback curve ensures a steady increase in kickback without any sudden spikes, while the Anti-Squat curve is properly positioned with a linear, low slope to provide consistent pedaling support throughout the entire travel, without any spikes during the pedaling phase. The 100% Anti-Rise curve maintained throughout the full travel ensures consistent braking traction and active suspension behavior through the most extreme terrain. This system can achieve a zero-slope Anti-Rise (dA.R./dT=0) curve for full travel, enhancing tire-ground contact during braking, which results in shorter stopping distances or less braking effort when appropriate. Unlike typical Anti-Rise curves that vary in percentage through the travel, this setup maintains consistent braking performance across all suspension positions. The mid-high pivot suspension provides the ideal rear wheel trajectory, offering stability without the “wonky” feel or excessive idler pulley drag that is often associated with high-pivot bikes. Additionally, the fixed idler position—placed further forward than floating idlers—produces a more favorable kickback curve, and the chain does not need to reach as far to engage the low gear, improving efficiency and reducing wear compared to floating idler designs.
projects and history
