EP4251497A1 - Bicycle lock cap - Google Patents
Bicycle lock capInfo
- Publication number
- EP4251497A1 EP4251497A1 EP21823804.6A EP21823804A EP4251497A1 EP 4251497 A1 EP4251497 A1 EP 4251497A1 EP 21823804 A EP21823804 A EP 21823804A EP 4251497 A1 EP4251497 A1 EP 4251497A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- bottom bracket
- end cap
- centre axis
- bracket shell
- bearing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 14
- 239000003365 glass fiber Substances 0.000 description 11
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 8
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 description 7
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 6
- XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Chemical compound C=CC=C.C=CC#N.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229920000122 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920000136 polysorbate Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 241000905957 Channa melasoma Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052729 chemical element Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005489 elastic deformation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007373 indentation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005728 strengthening Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
- B62K19/00—Cycle frames
- B62K19/30—Frame parts shaped to receive other cycle parts or accessories
- B62K19/34—Bottom brackets
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62H—CYCLE STANDS; SUPPORTS OR HOLDERS FOR PARKING OR STORING CYCLES; APPLIANCES PREVENTING OR INDICATING UNAUTHORIZED USE OR THEFT OF CYCLES; LOCKS INTEGRAL WITH CYCLES; DEVICES FOR LEARNING TO RIDE CYCLES
- B62H5/00—Appliances preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of cycles; Locks integral with cycles
- B62H5/08—Appliances preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of cycles; Locks integral with cycles preventing the drive
- B62H5/10—Appliances preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of cycles; Locks integral with cycles preventing the drive acting on a pedal crank
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
- B62M3/00—Construction of cranks operated by hand or foot
- B62M3/003—Combination of crank axles and bearings housed in the bottom bracket
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a bottom bracket for a bicycle.
- the invention further relates to a method for removing a first end cap from a bicy- cle comprising a bottom bracket according to the invention.
- Bicycle theft is a common problem in many places around the world. To prevent bicycle theft, most bicycles have a lock mounted thereon or have a separate lock. Traditional locking systems for bicycles work by fixating the bicycle to a fixed object, such as a street light, and/or by blocking a wheel of the bicycle, most commonly by means of a chain, wire, or U-lock.
- Such locking systems suffer from several drawbacks. Most crucially is that they are almost always locked/unlocked using a key and are all easy to tamper with as they are arranged externally on the bicycle. It is thus possible for a thief to break open the locking system, either by using tools to destroy the lock itself or by forcefully operating the key mechanism. Furthermore, separate locks require the cyclist to carry around the lock when not used or mount it on a separate mounting bracket on the bicycle.
- WO 2019/179587 A1 discloses a bicycle locking system for mounting in a bicycle comprising an axle which is rotatable around its longitudinal axis, a first locking element and a second locking element, which are configured for locking engagement with each other, where the first locking element is fixed to the axle and each of the first and second locking elements comprise an engagement surface.
- the engagement surfaces of the locking elements comprise mutually corresponding protrusions and cavities
- the locking system further comprises a biasing device and an actuation ele ment, where the biasing device is configured to exert a force on the second locking element in the longitudinal direction, so as to displace the first and second locking elements in relation to each other, where the biasing device is a magnetic biasing device, and the actuation element acts to switch the lock ing system between a state where the biasing device magnetically repels the second locking element and a state where the biasing device magnetically attracts the second locking element.
- a bottom bracket for a bicycle comprising: a bottom bracket shell for forming part of a frame of the bicycle, wherein the bottom bracket shell defines a first opening for introducing an end cap along a longitudinal direction, a first end cap introduced in the first opening, wherein the first end cap comprises a first exterior surface facing away from the bottom bracket shell, a first through-hole extending through the first exterior surface along a centre axis parallel to the longitudinal direction, and a first extension portion extending into the bottom bracket shell along the centre axis, characterized in that, an interior surface of the bottom bracket shell comprises an interior thread, wherein the first end cap is engaged with the bottom bracket via press fitting and the first extension portion is engaged with the interior thread.
- a bottom bracket is provided which hinder tampering.
- Having the first end cap engaged via press fitting and engaged with an interi or thread gives a strong connection, which cannot easily be broken without the use of specialized tools.
- the engagement between the interior thread and the extension portion may allow for the first end cap to be unscrewed from the bottom bracket shell. This is especially advantageous as the first end cap is press fitted into the bottom bracket shell, thereby making it difficult to pull the first end cap out of the bottom bracket shell.
- Another advantage of being able to unscrew the first end cap from the bottom bracket shell is that it is not necessary to have access to the interior of the bottom bracket shell for un screwing the first end cap, instead the first end cap may be unscrewed from the exterior via the interior thread.
- the interior thread may be manufactured from a material harder than the first end cap.
- the interior thread may be configured to form a mating thread in the first extension portion when said first extension portion is un screwed along the interior thread. Consequently, it may be visible on the end cap if the bottom bracket has been tampered with.
- the interior thread may be configured to form a thread in the first end cap when the first end cap is re moved from the bottom bracket shell.
- the first end cap is manufactured from a resilient material facilitating press fitting of the first end cap.
- having the first end cap manufactured from a resilient material may facilitate that when the first end cap has been introduced into the bottom bracket shell and is settling, the interior thread may dig into the exterior of the first extension portion, thus strengthening the engagement be tween the interior thread and the first extension portion e.g. the exterior of the first extension portion.
- the interior thread digging into the first end cap may create a barbed engagement between the interior thread and the first end cap.
- the first end cap may be made from a material comprising and/or consisting of a polymer, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and/or nylon.
- ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
- the first end cap is made from a material comprising a polymer and glass fibres or from a material consisting of a pol ymer and glass fibres. Alternatively or additionally, the first end cap may be made from a glass fibre reinforce plastic. In an embodiment, the first end cap is made from a material comprising 1-50 %, such as 2-40 %, such as 3-30 %, such as 5-25 %, such as 10-20 %, such as 13-17 %, such as 15 %, by weight, or 1-50 %, such as 2-40 %, such as 3-30 %, such as 5-25 %, such as 10-20 %, such as 13-17 %, such as 15 %, by volume of glass fibre.
- the mate rial may further comprise 50-99 % by weight and/or 50-99 % by volume of a polymer, such as ABS.
- a polymer such as ABS.
- the material may consist of a polymer and glass fibres, e.g. in the aforementioned ranges.
- bicycle In the context of this invention the use of the word bicycle is to be in terpreted broadly.
- a bicycle may also be interpreted as a unicycle, a cycle with three wheels, four wheels, or more.
- a width of the first extension portion exceeds a width of the first opening.
- the first exterior surface comprises markings indi cating locations for forming holes for use in removing the first end cap from the bottom bracket shell.
- the holes may provide space for a re moval tool to engage with the first end cap. Rotation of the removal tool after engagement with the first end cap may then facilitate removal of the first end cap.
- the markings may also give an indication whether the bottom bracket has been tampered with, e.g. if the markings are not present it may indicate the bottom bracket has been tampered with.
- the markings may be provided as indentations in the first exterior surface.
- the markings may be provided as protrusions in the first exterior sur face.
- the markings may be formed as circles, squares, crosses, triangles or any other geometric shape.
- the first exterior surface may be provided with two, three, four or more markings.
- the amount of markings on the first exterior surface corresponds to the removal tool, e.g. if the removal tool has four protrusions for engagement with holes in the first exterior surface, the first exterior surface may be provided with four markings.
- the interior thread is an inclined thread, preferably with an inclination to the centre axis between 0-10 degrees, even more pre ferred between 2-5 degrees, and may a diameter of the interior thread may increase along the longitudinal direction.
- Having an inclined thread may further facilitate a strong press fit en gagement between the first end cap and the interior thread. Furthermore, in clining the interior thread may facilitate a barb behaviour of the interior thread, wherein the thread allows press fitting of the first end cap along the longitudi nal direction and acts as barb when trying to pull out the first end cap in a di rection opposite the longitudinal direction.
- the barbed behaviour of the thread may facilitate the creation of thread in the first extension portion when un screwing the first extension portion.
- the first extension portion comprises a first bearing portion configured for housing a bearing facilitating rotation of an axle around the centre axis.
- the bottom bracket further comprises a bearing, wherein the bearing is arranged in the first bearing portion and configured to facilitate rotation of an axle around the centre axis.
- the first bearing portion comprises sealing portions and preformed holes arranged opposite the markings, and wherein the pre formed holes and markings are separated by the sealing portions.
- the forming of holes for removing the first end cap is eased.
- the predrilled holes there is only a need for removing the sealing portion to create holes for removing the first end cap.
- the pre formed holes may further assure the holes formed for removal of the first end cap are correctly located on the exterior surface.
- the predrilled holes may be formed as cylindrical holes extending longitudinally along the centre axis.
- the sealing portions may be formed as part of the first exterior sur- face and/or the first bearing portion.
- a width of the first bearing portion, perpendicular to the centre axis, increases along the longitudinal direction.
- the increasing width of the first bearing portion may engage with an inclined thread to further improve a barbed effect provided by the interior thread.
- the increasing width of the first bearing portion may ensure a uni form engagement with an inclined thread, such that not only a bottom or top part of the first bearing portion is engaged with the inclined thread.
- Having an increasing width is also advantageous when the first bearing portion is manu factured from a resilient material and the interior thread is an inclined thread. Consequently, the wider bottom of the first bearing portion may elastically compress when initially introduced through the first opening and then gradual- ly increase as the first bearing portion is further introduced into the bottom bracket shell.
- the increase in width of the first bearing portion may be achieved by having an outer surface of the first bearing portion extending with an inclina tion away from the centre axis. Consequently, a width of the first bearing por- tion perpendicular to the centre axis LA increases along the longitudinal direc tion.
- the inclination between the centre axis and the outer surface of the first bearing portion may be between 0-5 degrees, preferably between 0-3 de grees, whereby a width of the first bearing portion increases along the longi tudinal direction. If the interior thread is an inclined thread, the inclination of the outer surface of the first bearing portion may exceed the inclination of the interior thread.
- the first extension portion comprises a first guiding portion extending along the centre axis, wherein the first guiding portion is formed as one or more legs extending into the bottom bracket shell, and wherein one or more ends of the one or more legs extending into bottom bracket shell comprises one or more guiding surfaces extending with an angle to the centre axis, and wherein the one or more guiding surfaces are config- ured to assist in introducing the first end cap through the first opening by guid ing the extension portion along the interior thread in the longitudinal direction.
- the first guiding portion may be provided with one, two, three, four, five, six, seven or more legs.
- the legs are resilient legs configured to elastically deform.
- the first guiding portion comprises 2-12 legs, such as 4-10 legs, such as 6-9 legs, such as 7 or 8 legs.
- the first end cap is made of a material comprising a plastic material and glass fibres
- a rigidity of the material may be increased and a larger number of legs may be provided.
- a high per centage of glass fibres is provided in the material
- a high rigidity of the legs may be provided, potentially allowing for a higher count of legs, for instance 8-12 legs.
- a lower rigidity and higher resilience of the legs may be provided, potentially allowing for fewer legs, for instance 2-8 legs.
- the angle of the one or more legs may be complementary with an angle of the flanks of the interior thread. Consequently, allowing the guiding surfaces to assist in introducing the first end cap through the first opening along the interior thread.
- the guiding surfaces may travel along the flanks of the interior thread leading to a compression of the one or more legs. When the guiding surfaces passes the crests of the interior thread the legs may ex pand again. Thereby, achieving a spring-like behaviour of the legs as they travel along the interior thread, which may form a snap-fit assembly where the legs and the crests of the interior thread interlocks with each other.
- the one or more legs may be biased away from the centre axis and towards the interior thread as the first end cap is introduced into the bottom bracket shell.
- the one or more legs are biased away from the cen tre axis and towards the interior thread when the first end cap is introduced into the bottom bracket shell.
- the bias away from the centre axis may further facilitate a strong press-fit connection and the spring-like behaviour of the legs.
- the bias may be achieved by, a width between the legs exceeding a width defined by the interior thread of the bottom bracket shell. Consequently, the legs are in a constant state of compression towards each other during and after being introduced into the bottom bracket shell. The compression of the legs leads to the legs being biased towards the interior thread.
- the one or more legs may be evenly distributed along a perimeter of the first end cap.
- a width of the first guiding portion perpendicular to the centre axis increases along the longitudinal direction.
- the increasing width of the first guiding portion may cooperate with an in clined thread to further improve a barbed effect provided by the interior thread. Furthermore, the increasing width of the first guiding portion may pro vide a uniform engagement with an inclined thread, so not only a bottom or top part of the first guiding portion is engaged with the inclined thread. Having an increasing width is also advantageous when the first guiding portion is provided as resilient legs. Consequently, the legs of the first guiding portion may elastically compress when initially introduced through the first opening and then gradually increase as the first guiding portion is further introduced into the bottom bracket shell.
- the increase in width of the first guiding portion may be achieved by having the legs extending from a perimeter of first end cap with an inclination away from centre axis. Consequently, a width of the first guiding portion per pendicular to the centre axis LA increases along the centre axis LA.
- the incli nation between the centre axis and the outer surface of the first bearing por tion may be between 0-10 degrees, preferably between 0-5 degrees. If the interior thread is an inclined thread, the inclination of the legs of the first guid ing portion may exceed the inclination of the interior thread.
- the first guiding portion extends from the first bear ing portion, and wherein the first bearing portion extends from the first exterior surface. Consequently, the first guiding portion may ease press fitting of the first end cap, while the bearing portion provides a convenient housing for a bearing.
- the guiding portion may extend from the first bearing portion with a first angle.
- the first bearing portion may extend from the first exterior surface with a second angle. The first angle and the second angle may be the same angle or be different angles.
- the bottom bracket further comprises a locking system arranged in the bottom bracket shell, wherein the locking system is modifiable between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein in the locked state the locking system is configured to prevent an axle from rotating around the centre axis and in the unlocked state the axle is rotatable around the centre axis, said axle extending along the centre axis through the first through-hole and the bottom bracket shell, said axle being rotatable around the centre axis, and wherein the locking system is fixed in the first extension portion.
- the locking system is modifiable between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein in the locked state the locking system is configured to prevent an axle from rotating around the centre axis and in the unlocked state the axle is rotatable around the centre axis, said axle extending along the centre axis through the first through-hole and the bottom bracket shell, said axle being rotatable around the centre axis, and wherein the locking system is fixed in the first extension portion.
- the objects laid out in the back ground are achieved by a bicycle comprising a bottom bracket according to a first aspect of the invention.
- the objects laid out in the back ground are achieved by a method for removing a first end cap from a bottom bracket shell, the method comprising the steps of: providing a bicycle comprising a bottom bracket according to the first aspect of the invention. providing a removal tool configured for removing the first end cap from the bicycle, forming holes in the first exterior surface, inserting the removal tool into the holes, and rotating the removal tool to disengage the first extension portion from the interior thread.
- Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the bottom bracket of the invention
- Fig. 2 shows a schematic perspective cut-away view of an embodi ment of the bottom bracket of the invention
- Fig. 3a shows a schematic perspective view of a first end cap ac cording to an embodiment of the invention
- Fig. 3b shows a schematic front view of the first end cap shown in
- Fig. 3c shows a schematic bottom view of the first end cap shown in
- Fig. 3d shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the first end cap shown in Fig. 3a;
- Fig. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a bottom bracket shell according to an embodiment of the invention
- Fig. 5a a schematic perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of a bottom bracket of the invention in a disassembled state
- Fig. 5b a schematic perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of the bottom bracket of Fig. 5a in an assembled state.
- FIG. 6a, 6b and 6c depicting different stages of removing a first end cap from a bottom bracket according to the invention. Detailed description
- the bottom bracket 1 comprises a bottom bracket shell 11.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 may be manufactured from aluminium, steel, or other metals or alloys.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 forms part of a frame 4 of a bicycle.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 is in the shown embodiment formed as a hollow cylinder.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 extends axially along a centre axis LA.
- the centre axis LA corresponds to the centre axis LA of the hollow cylinder.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 comprises an exterior surface
- a first end cap 2 is introduced into the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first end cap 2 is configured to be introduced into the bottom bracket shell 11 along a longitudinal direction LD.
- the first end cap 2 is introduced via a first opening 17 in the bottom bracket shell.
- the longitudinal direction LD in the shown embodiment is parallel with the centre axis LA.
- the first end cap 2 comprises a first exterior surface 21 facing away from the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first exterior surface 21 substantially covers the first opening 17.
- the first exterior surface 21 comprises markings 23.
- the markings 23 may indicate locations of holes for use in removing the first end cap 2 from the bottom bracket shell 11. The utilization of the marking 23 will be described more in-depth in the following figures.
- the first end cap 2 is installed into the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first end cap 2 further comprises a first through-hole 22 extending through the first exterior surface 21.
- the first through-hole 22 is formed as a circular hole, wherein a centre of the circular hole intersects with the centre axis LA.
- the first exterior surface 21 in the installed condition with the bottom bracket shell 11 is substantially flush with a top surface 13 of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first end cap 2 being flush with the bottom bracket shell may assure no vantage point is given for gripping and subsequently pulling out the first end cap 2.
- the top surface 13 of the bottom bracket shell 11 corresponds to a top surface of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the top surface 13 of the bottom bracket shell 11 faces away from an interior of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- An axle 3 extends through the first end cap 2 and the bottom bracket shell 11. More specifically the axle 3 extends through the first through-hole 22 of the first end cap 2. Preferably, the first through hole 22 is configured to accommodate the axle 3 with little to no clearance between the first end cap 2 and the axle 3.
- the axle 3 extends along the centre axis LA.
- the axle 3 is rotatable around the centre axis LA.
- the centre axis LA corresponds to a longitudinal axis of the axle 3.
- the longitudinal direction LD and the centre axis LA are in the shown embodiment parallel to each other.
- the axle 3 is provided with connection interfaces 31 for connecting pedals to the axle 3.
- the connection interfaces 31 is in the shown embodiment provided as threads 31.
- the one or more wires 5 may provide a mechanical or electrical connection.
- the wires 5 may mechanically or electrically connect a locking system 7 accommodated within the bottom bracket shell 11 to other devices on the bicycle.
- Fig. 2 depicting a schematic perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of the bottom bracket 1 of the invention.
- the second end cap 6 is connected to the connected bottom bracket shell 11.
- the con nection between the bottom bracket shell 11 and the second end cap 6 is preferably a permanent connection, e.g. the second end cap being welded or adhered to the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the second end cap 6 may be press-fitted into the bottom bracket shell 11 or the bottom bracket shell may be provided with a thread with which the second end cap 6 may engage with.
- the second end cap 6 is formed integrally with the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the second end cap 6 is also provided with a through-hole which may accommodate the axle extending through the first end cap 2 and the bottom bracket shell 11.
- a locking system 7 Arranged in the bottom bracket shell 11 is a locking system 7.
- the locking system 7 is accommodated in the bottom bracket shell 11 between the first end cap 2 and the second end cap 6.
- the locking system 7 is modifi able between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state the axle 3 is prevented from rotating around the centre axis LA and in the un locked state the axle 3 is rotatable around the centre axis LA.
- the locking system 7 may be connected to the one or more wires 5.
- the one or more wires may then facilitate either an electrical and/or mechanical connection between the locking system 7 and one or more devices external to the bottom bracket shell 11.
- a more in-depth description of a locking system is given in WO 2019/179587 A1.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 is provided with a frame opening 15.
- the frame opening 15 allows the one or more wires 5 to extend from an interior of the bottom bracket shell 11 into the frame 4 of the bicycle.
- the first end cap 2 is press fitted into the bottom brack et shell 11 and in engagement with the interior thread 14.
- the first end cap comprises a first extension portion 20.
- the first extension portion 20 ex tends into the bottom bracket shell 11 along the centre axis LA.
- the first ex tension portion 20 extends transversely from the first exterior surface 21.
- the first extension portion 20 is engaged with the interior thread 14.
- the first extension portion 20 is configured to co operate with the interior thread 14.
- the first extension portion 20 preferably extends from the first exterior surface 21 to define an outer circumferential surface configured to engage the interior thread 14.
- the first end cap 2 comprises a first exterior surface 21.
- the first exterior surface 21 has a substantially circular outer pe rimeter.
- the first exterior surface 21 comprises markings 23 indicating loca tions of drill holes for use in removing the first end cap 2 from the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first exterior surface 21 is pro vided with four markings 23.
- the four marking 23 are provided as four circular patterns on the first exterior surface 21.
- a first through-going hole 22 extends through the first exterior surface 21.
- the first through-going hole 22 is formed as a substantially circular hole 22 extending along the centre axis LA.
- the first through-going hole 22 provides a passage for an axle 3 between an inte rior of the bottom bracket shell 11 and an exterior of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first through-going hole 22 extends through a centre of the first exte rior surface 21.
- Extending from the first exterior surface 21 is a first extension portion 20.
- the first extension portion 20 is configured for extending into the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first extension portion 20 extends along the cen tre axis LA.
- the first end cap 2 may be manufactured from a polymer, e.g. an Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) polymer.
- ABS Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
- the first end cap 2 may be manufactured from a material consisting of a polymer, e.g. ABS, and glass fibres.
- the first end cap 2 may be made from material may consist of 70-99 % by weight of ABS and 1-30 % by weight of glass fibres, such as consist of 80- 90% by weight of ABS and 10-20 % by weight of glass fibres.
- the first extension portion 20 comprises a first bearing portion 210.
- the first bearing portion 210 extends from the first exterior surface 21 along the centre axis LA.
- the first bearing portion 210 is configured for housing a bearing facilitating rotation of the axle 3 around the centre axis LA.
- the bear ing portion may be provided with a bearing chamber 212 configured to house a bearing.
- the bearing chamber 212 is in the shown embodiment formed as a substantially cylindrical chamber.
- the bearing chamber 212 is delimited at the top by the first exterior surface 21 and open at a bottom of the bearing cham ber to receive a bearing to be accommodated within the bearing chamber 212.
- the bearing chamber 212 extends from the through-going hole 22 along the centre axis LA.
- the bearing chamber 212 increases in diameter as it extends away from the first through-going hole 212.
- the increase in diameter corresponds to a bearing to be ac commodated within the bearing chamber 212. Consequently, an axle 3 may extend through the first through-going hole 22 and the bearing chamber 212 while rotation of the axle 3 is facilitated by a bearing arranged within the bear ing chamber 212.
- the bearing portion 210 forms a bearing shoulder 213 con figured to abut with a bearing arranged in the bearing chamber 212.
- the bearing shoulder 213 is formed as a surface 213 extending perpendicular to the centre axis LA.
- the bearing shoulder 213 forms a natural stop for a bear ing arranged in the bearing chamber 212.
- the bearing portion 210 comprises a tapered bearing surface 214.
- the tapered bearing surface 214 being ar ranged opposite of the bearing shoulder 213 in regard to the bearing chamber 212, e.g. the bearing shoulder 213 may define an upper surface of the bear ing chamber 212 closer to the exterior surface 21, while the tapered bearing surface may define a lower surface of the bearing chamber 212 farther away from the first exterior surface 21.
- the tapered bearing surface 214 tapers outwards from the bearing chamber 212.
- the tapered bearing surface 214 facilitates press fitting of a bearing into the bearing chamber 212.
- the tapered bearing surface 213 acts as a guiding surface guiding a bearing being press fitted into the bearing chamber 212.
- the first bearing portion further compris es sealing portions 215.
- the sealing portions 215 separates preformed holes 211 in the first bearing portion 210 from the markings 23 on the first exterior surface 21.
- the preformed holes 211 are arranged opposite the markings 23 and separated by the sealing portions 215.
- An outer bearing surface of the first bearing portion 210 tapers outwardly from the first exterior surface 21. Therefore, a width of the first bearing portion 210 increases away from the first exterior surface 21. Consequently, a width of the first bearing portion 210 perpendicular to the centre axis LA increases along the centre axis LA.
- the taper from the first exterior surface 21 is between 0-5 degrees, preferably be tween 0-3 degrees.
- first bearing portion 210 may be formulated as the taper between first bearing portion and the centre axis is between 0-5 degrees, preferably between 0-3 degrees.
- An outer surface of the first bearing portion 210 is sub stantially smooth.
- the outer surface of the first bearing portion 210 preferably fully or at least partly defines an outer circumferential surface configured to engage the interior thread 14.
- the first extension portion 20 further com prises a first guiding portion 220.
- the first guiding portion 220 extends from the first bearing portion 210 along the centre axis.
- the first guiding portion is formed as a plurality of legs 220 extending from the first bearing portion 210.
- the legs 220 extends from a perimeter of the first bearing portion 210.
- the first guiding portion 220 is formed as seven legs ex tending from a perimeter of the first bearing portion 210.
- the legs 220 are evenly distributed along the perimeter of the first bearing portion 210.
- the legs 220 are tapered outwardly so a width of the first guiding portion 210 per pendicular to the centre axis LA increases along the legs.
- the legs 220 are resilient, thus allowing for elastic defor mation.
- the legs 220 are provided with one or more guiding surfaces 221.
- the guiding surfaces 221 are provided at ends of the legs 220 opposite the first bearing portion 210.
- the guiding surfaces 221 are provided as inwardly tapering surfaces. The guiding surfaces 221 tapers towards a centre of first guiding portion 220.
- the guiding surfaces 221 are configured to assist in in troducing the first end cap 2 into the bottom bracket shell 11 along the first longitudinal direction LD. More specifically the guiding surfaces 221 may co operate with an interior thread 14 of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the legs 220 extends from the first bearing portion 210 to form a locking shoulder 222 with the first bearing portion 210.
- the locking shoulder 222 is configured to abut a locking system 7 arranged in the bottom bracket shell 11. Consequently, the locking shoulder 222 may acts as a stop for a locking system 7 arranged in the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the locking shoulder 222 may then limit move- ment of the locking system 7 along the centre axis LA.
- the locking shoulder 222 is formed as a surface extending perpendicularly to the centre axis LA.
- the legs 220 extends in parallel with the centre axis LA so as to form a lock ing space 223 in-between the legs 220.
- the locking space 223 being config ured for receiving a locking system 7 with little to no clearance. Consequently, limiting movement of the locking system in a direction perpendicular to the centre axis LA.
- the legs 220 may together with the locking shoulder 222 limit movement of a locking system 7 in the bottom bracket shell 11 in two dimensions. Consequently, a locking system 7 in the bottom bracket shell 11 may be fixed in the first extension portion 20 of the first end cap 2.
- An outer surface of the first guiding portion 220 is substantially smooth.
- the bottom bracket shell 11 is formed substantially as a hollow cylinder.
- An exte rior surface 12 of the bottom bracket shell 11 faces away from the bottom bracket shell 11.
- An interior surface 15 of the bottom bracket shell 11 faces towards an interior of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the interior surface 15 delimits an interior space 16 of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the interior space 16 being configured for receiving a locking system 7, a first end cap 2, and an axle 3.
- At least part of the interior surface 15 is provided as an interior thread 14.
- the interior thread 14 is configured to engage a first extension portion 20 of the first end cap 2.
- the interior thread 14 extends along a centre axis from a top surface 13 of the bottom bracket shell 11 and into the bottom bracket shell 11. At the top surface 13 is bottom bracket shell 11 defines a first open ing 17 in which a first cap 2 may be introduced.
- the interior thread 14 is a tapered thread, preferably with a taper between 0-10 degrees, even more preferred between 2-5 degrees.
- a diameter of the interior thread 14 increases along the centre axis away from the top surface 13.
- cap shoulder 18 is provided as a narrowing of the interior space 16.
- the cap shoulder 18 is an inwardly tapered surface on which a first cap 2 introduced through the first opening 17 may abut. Consequently, the cap shoulder 18 may limit move- ment of the first cap 2 along the centre axis LA, when the first end cap 2 has been introduced through the first opening 17.
- figs 5a and 5b depicting a schematic perspective cut-away view of an embodiment of the bottom bracket 1 of the invention in a disassembled state and assembled state, respectively.
- the first end cap 2 is ready to be introduced into the interior space 16 of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first end cap 2 is introduced via the first opening 17 of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- the first end cap 2 is introduced along the longitudinal direction LD.
- the first end cap 2 is introduced via press fitting.
- the guiding portion 220 of the first end cap 2 assists in introducing the first end cap 2 into the bottom brack et shell 11.
- the guiding surfaces 221 are configured to slide of the flanks of the interior thread 14.
- flanks of the interior thread 14 facing opposite of the longitudinal direction LD.
- the guiding surfaces 221 slides of the flanks of the interior thread 14.
- the sliding motion by the guiding surfaces 221 leads to the legs 220 defining the guiding portion 220 being compressed to wards the centre axis LA.
- the guiding surfaces 221 passes the crest associated with a flank the compressed legs 220 may move towards their un compressed position again.
- the process may repeat itself until the guiding portion 220 of the first end cap 2 reaches the bottom of the interior thread 14.
- the guiding surfaces 221 are tapered inwardly toward the centre axis LA with an angle configured to facilitate a sliding motion on a flank of the interior thread 14.
- the first exterior surface 21 of the first end cap 2 is substantially flush with the top surface 13 of the bottom bracket shell 11.
- Both the bearing portion 210 and the guiding portion 220 are in engagement with the interior thread 14.
- the guiding surface 221 abuts the cap shoulder 18, thus delimiting further movement of the first end cap 2 along the longitudinal direction LD.
- the cap shoulder 18 is inclined with an angle corresponding to a taper of the guiding surfaces 221.
- a locking system 7 arranged in the bottom bracket shell 11 is in the assembled condition enclosed by the legs 220 of the guiding portion 220. Referring now to figs 6a, 6b and 6c depicting different stages of re moving a first end cap 2 from a bottom bracket 1 according to the invention.
- a removal tool 8 configured for removing the first end cap 2 from the bottom bracket 1 is provided.
- the removal tool 8 is provided with several protrusions 81.
- the protrusions 81 are configured to engage one or more drill holes created in the first end cap 2.
- the protrusions 81 extends from a sup port 82.
- the protrusions 81 extends perpendicular to the support 82.
- the support 82 preferably, presents a planar surface on which the protru sions 81 extends perpendicularly from.
- An axle through-going hole 83 is formed in a centre of the support 82.
- the axle through-going hole 83 being configured for accommodating an axle when the support 82 abuts the first exterior surface 21 of the first end cap 2.
- the axle through-going hole 83 be ing configured for accommodating an axle when the protrusions 81 are in en gagement with drill holes formed in the first end cap 2.
- An adapter 84 extends from the support 82 opposite the protrusions 81.
- the adapter 84 is configured for providing one or more engagement surfaces for an additional tool to en gage with.
- the additional tool may be a wrench, a socket wrench, pliers, etc.
- In a next step one or more holes are drilled into the first exterior surface 21.
- the markings 23 on the first exterior surface 21 may indicate locations for where holes in the first exterior surface 21 are to be formed.
- markings 23 may assure the holes are formed in the correct positions to allow the pro trusions 81 of the removal tool 8 to engage with the holes.
- preformed holes 211 in the bearing portion 210 of the first end cap 2 may ease the formed holes in the first exterior surface 21, as only a sealing portion 215 needs to be removed to create suitable holes for the tool 8.
- the preformed holes 211 are created to receive the protrusions 81 of the removal tool 8.
- the removal tool 8 is inserted into the one or more holes formed into the first end cap 2. The removal tool 8 is inserted by having the protrusions 81 of the tool go into engagement with the one or more holes formed in the first exterior surface 21.
- the engagement between the protru sions 81 and the one or more the one or more holes formed in the first exteri or surface 21 is obtained by inserting the protrusions 81 in the formed holes.
- the removal tool 8 is rotated to disengage the first extension portion 20 from the interior 14 thread.
- the removal tool 8 may be rotated via an additional tool in engagement with the adapter 84. Rotation of the removal tool 8 in return rotates the first end cap 2 and the first extension portion 20 of the first end cap 2.
- the interior thread 14 guides the rotation of the first exten sion portion 20.
- the interior thread 14 guides the rotation of the first extension portion 20 by forming a thread in the first extension portion 20.
- the engagement between the interior thread 14 and the first extension portion 20 allows for the first extension portion to travel along the interior thread 14, which results in the first extension portion 20 and the first end cap 2 disengaging from the bottom bracket shell 11.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
- Steering Devices For Bicycles And Motorcycles (AREA)
- Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP20210684.5A EP4005903A1 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2020-11-30 | Bicycle lock cap |
PCT/EP2021/083381 WO2022112561A1 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2021-11-29 | Bicycle lock cap |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4251497A1 true EP4251497A1 (en) | 2023-10-04 |
Family
ID=73646210
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP20210684.5A Withdrawn EP4005903A1 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2020-11-30 | Bicycle lock cap |
EP21823804.6A Pending EP4251497A1 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2021-11-29 | Bicycle lock cap |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP20210684.5A Withdrawn EP4005903A1 (en) | 2020-11-30 | 2020-11-30 | Bicycle lock cap |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (2) | EP4005903A1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN116547197A (en) |
TW (1) | TW202229081A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022112561A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPS59187579U (en) * | 1983-05-31 | 1984-12-12 | マエダ工業株式会社 | Structure of hanger part on bicycle |
US5473962A (en) * | 1994-03-28 | 1995-12-12 | Yamamoto; Teiji | Bicycle hanger structure |
US6550355B1 (en) * | 2000-05-09 | 2003-04-22 | Douglas Chiang | Bicycle crankshaft assembly |
US20210031849A1 (en) | 2018-03-20 | 2021-02-04 | Pentalock Aps | Locking system for a bicycle |
-
2020
- 2020-11-30 EP EP20210684.5A patent/EP4005903A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2021
- 2021-11-29 CN CN202180080172.2A patent/CN116547197A/en active Pending
- 2021-11-29 WO PCT/EP2021/083381 patent/WO2022112561A1/en active Application Filing
- 2021-11-29 EP EP21823804.6A patent/EP4251497A1/en active Pending
- 2021-11-30 TW TW110144496A patent/TW202229081A/en unknown
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP4005903A1 (en) | 2022-06-01 |
TW202229081A (en) | 2022-08-01 |
CN116547197A (en) | 2023-08-04 |
WO2022112561A1 (en) | 2022-06-02 |
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