This Design by SoftWheel is Inspired by Shock-Absorbing Wheelchairs
Rahul Kalvapalle — May 8, 2014 — Autos
References: softwheel.co.il & gizmag
Israeli company SoftWheel will soon be launching the 'Fluent wheel,' a bicycle wheel equipped with shock-absorbing technology. The Fluent wheel borrows its design from a shock-absorbing wheelchair suspension system invented by Israeli farmer Gilad Wolf after he broke his pelvis. Wolf is now a board member of SoftWheel.
The fluent wheel is equipped with cylindrical shock absorbers that extend from the hub to the rim in place of regular spokes. The shock-absorbers remain rigid over smooth surfaces, but compress when the wheels take big hits. When the wheel takes a hit, its hub briefly moves down within the wheel and absorbs the jarring energy, preventing it from being transmitted to the rider.
SoftWheel hasn't yet revealed when the Fluent wheel will be made available, although it is said to be compatible with a wide variety of bicycles.
The fluent wheel is equipped with cylindrical shock absorbers that extend from the hub to the rim in place of regular spokes. The shock-absorbers remain rigid over smooth surfaces, but compress when the wheels take big hits. When the wheel takes a hit, its hub briefly moves down within the wheel and absorbs the jarring energy, preventing it from being transmitted to the rider.
SoftWheel hasn't yet revealed when the Fluent wheel will be made available, although it is said to be compatible with a wide variety of bicycles.
Trend Themes
1. Shock-absorbing Bike Wheels - Opportunity for innovation in the bicycle industry by incorporating shock-absorbing technology for a smoother ride.
2. Inspired Design From Wheelchairs - Potential to bring innovations from wheelchair suspension systems to other industries, such as automotive or sports equipment.
3. Cylindrical Shock Absorbers - Disruptive opportunity to develop new shock-absorbing solutions for various applications beyond bicycles, like furniture or packaging materials.
Industry Implications
1. Bicycle Manufacturing - Opportunity for bicycle manufacturers to integrate shock-absorbing technology and enhance their product offerings.
2. Automotive - Potential for automotive manufacturers to incorporate shock-absorbing technology to improve ride comfort and safety.
3. Sports Equipment - Opportunity for sports equipment manufacturers to develop shock-absorbing solutions for various sports like skateboards or rollerblades.
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