Abstract
This paper presents the development process for a bicycle monocoque frame using bolt fastening. Traditionally, bicycle frames have been constructed with metal tubes joined at their ends by welding. These frames have been brazed or soldered onto metal lugs, forming the frame. Because stress loads become greatest at the joint of the bicycle tube frame, joint construction strongly influences frame design and construction. To avoid the inherent problems of material discontinuity at frame joints, numerous designers have attempted to reduce or eliminate the number of joints in tube frames. Nevertheless, the manufacture of high quality, reliable, one-piece and jointless frames has proven difficult and expensive. In this study, a new monocoque frame adapted to a hybrid bike is proposed. The advantage of the monocoque frame, is theat is has a rechargeable battery system that is built into the frame; as a result, the emotional quality for the customer is improved. In order to estimate the design compatibility compared with that of tube frames, structural analysis is performed using finite element method. A prototype based on a modified design has also been made and stability testing has been carried out.
