GB2524223A

GB2524223A - A tool for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel

Info

Publication number: GB2524223A
Application number: GB1322560.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Bebbington; Robert Gregory Nicholas Mcdonald; Timothy St John Martin
Original assignee: Stique Ltd
Current assignee: Stique Ltd
Priority date: 2013-12-19
Filing date: 2013-12-19
Publication date: 2015-09-23
Also published as: GB201322560D0

Abstract

A tool for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel is described, more particularly a pair of tools. a first of said tools is generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein a second of said tools is also generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein the first and second tools have respective cooperating second formations for connecting the tools relative to each other, and wherein the first and second tools are shaped differently from each other. The first and second tools are therefore not identical to each other.

Description

Title: A tool for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel

Description of Invention

This invention relates to a tool for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel, more particularly a pair of tools.

Bicycle users have to maintain the tyres of the bicycle to ensure that they are roadworthy. The tyre can become worn and require replacement. The tyre may become punctured during use and the inner tube therein may need repair, or replacement. Such procedures involve the user having to remove the bicycle wheel from the bicycle frame to enable access to the tyre and inner tube.

Tools for enabling removal of a tyre from the rim of a bicycle wheel are known.

Typically, but not exclusively, the tool is provided as one of a pair of said tools which are identical to each other. Each tool includes a formation at one end which is inserted into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim. One tool is then used as a fulcrum to lever the tyre away from the rim. This (first) tool may include a holding means for engaging with a spoke of the bicycle wheel in the form of a recess or aperture. The purpose of this recess or aperture is to hold the tool in place relative to the tyre. The other of the tools (the second tool) is then also inserted into the space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, at a circumferentially spaced position relative to the first tool.

Again, this (second) tool is used as a fulcrum to lever the tyre away from the rim but is then moved circumferentially around the rim of the wheel so as to completely disengage the bead of the tyre from the wheel rim.

According to a first aspect of the invention we provide a pair of tools for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel, wherein: a first of said tools is generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein a second of said tools is also generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein the first and second tools have respective cooperating second formations for connecting the tools relative to each other, and wherein the first and second tools are shaped differently from each other.

According to a second aspect of the invention we provide a pair of tools for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel, wherein: a first of said tools is generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein a second of said tools is also generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein the first and second tools have respective cooperating second formations for connecting the tools relative to each other, and wherein the first and second tools are not identical to each other.

Further features of the first and second aspects of the invention are set out in dependent claims 3 to 31 appended hereto.

According to a third aspect of the invention we provide a tool for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel including one or more of all of the features as set out in dependent claims 3 to 31 appended hereto.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention we provide an apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance, including a pair of tools according to any one of claims ito 31.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention we provide an apparatus according to the fourth aspect of the invention including a further, third, tool.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention we provide an apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the invention including a further, fourth, tool.

Further features of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the invention are set out in dependent claims 35 and 27 to 29 appended hereto.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1 is a topside perspective view of a first tool; Figure 2 is an underside perspective view of the first tool; Figure 3 is an underside view of the first tool; Figure 4 is a side view of the first tool; Figure 5 is a plan view of the first tool; Figure 6 is an end view of the first tool; Figure 7 is topside perspective view of a second tool; Figure 8 is an underside perspective of the second tool; Figure 9 is an underside view of the second tool; Figure 10 is a side view of the second tool; Figure 11 is a plan view of the second tool; Figure 12 is an end view of the second tool; Figure 13 is a topside perspective view of the first and second tools connected to each other; Figure 14 is a further topside perspective view of the first and second tools connected to each other; Figure 15 is an underside perspective view of the first and second tools connected to each other; Figure 16 is a side view of the first and second tools connected to each other; Figure 17 is a plan view of the first and second tools connected to each other; Figure 18 is an end view of the first and second tools connected to each other; Figure 19 is a perspective view of a component part of the second tool; Figure 20 is a side view of the component part of figure 19; Figure 21 is a plan view of the component part of figure 19; Figure 22A, B, C and 0 are perspective, cross-sectional side, plan and side views of a first additional tool part; Figure 23A, B, C and D are perspective, cross-sectional side, plan and side views of second first additional tool part; Figure 24A, B, C and D are perspective, cross-sectional side, plan and side views of a third additional tool part; Figure 25A, B, C and 0 are perspective, cross-sectional side, plan and side views of a fourth additional tool part; Figure 26 is a perspective view of a third tool in accordance with the present invention, shown connected to the first and second tools; Figure 27 is a plan view of the third tool; Figure 28 is a side view of the third tool, shown connected to the first and second tools; and Figure 29 is a perspective view of a fourth tool in accordance with the present invention.

Referring to the figures, these show a pair of tools in accordance with the present invention for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel. The figures do not show the tools in use, but their use is well known to those skilled in the art.

Figures 1 to 6 show various views of a first tool 10 in accordance with the present invention. Figures 7 through 12 are various views of a second tool in accordance with the present invention. Figures 13 to 18 show the first and second 100 tools connected to each other, as will be discussed in greater detail later.

It can be seen that the first tool 10 is generally elongate and has a respective first formation 13 at one end 12 thereof. The formation 13 is a substantially part cyclindrical recess which extends transversely across the end 12 of the tool. The purpose of the formation 13 is for insertion into a space between a bead of a tyre and a rim of a wheel. The tool 10 has, at an opposite end thereof a third formation 19 which in this example includes a recess/channel for engaging with a spoke of the wheel in order to hold the tool 10 relative to the wheel. An entrance 21 to the recess 20 is provided between a pair of inwardly directed hook-shaped formations 22, 23 which receive and hold, in use, a spoke of the wheel. In the present embodiment it will be seen that the formation 20 is part-circular for engaging with a spoke of circular cross-section.

In other embodiments, one of the formations may be part-circular in cross-section, with the other having a relatively flat base for engagement with a spoke having a generally flat profile (e.g. an aerodynamic bladed spoke).

It can be seen in the side view in figure 4 that the third formation 19 of the tool extends away from a general plane of the tool 10 in a direction generally opposite to the direction in which the formation 13 extends away from this plane. In more detail the formation 19 curves transversely away from the general plane of the tool 10. In the underside view of figure 3 it will be seen that the body of the tool 10 includes first 11 a and second 11 b portions which are connected to each other. Side walls of the first portion 11 a taper as they extend away from the second portion 11 b. Likewise, side walls of the second portion 11 b taper as they extend away from the first portion of 11 a.

It will be seen from the remaining figures that the tool 10 includes a second formation 16 for connecting the tool 10 to a further tool (e.g. the second tool 100). The formation 16 is provided as a generally rectangular projection with upstanding walls 17, 18 which taper towards each other as they extend towards a main body of the tool 10. As will be seen from figures 7 to 12, this tapering ensures that the formation 16 engages with a formation 60 on the second tool 100 in order to hold the tools relative to one another.

It will also be seen from the figures that the tool 10 includes a formation 25 for receiving and holding therein a coin, for example a £1 or 1 coin. The recess has an entrance 26 provided in one side of a generally central portion of the first tool 10 with a generally part circular recess 29 in the side wall to assist a user in removing the coin from the recess 25. An upper wall of the tool 27 includes a circular aperture 27 through which the coin can be viewed. A resilient cantilever formation 28 is provided in order to assist in retaining the coin in the recess 25.

From the figures, particularly figures 2 and 3, it can be seen that the tool 10 also includes a formation designated generally at 30 for receiving one or more components parts of a bicycle chain, for example a link or link parts of a chain.

The formation 30 includes four generally cylindrical recesses 31, 32, 33, 34 which are provided in a generally rectangular array. These formations 31, 32, 33, 34 permit the components parts of, for example, a quick release or quick repair chain link for a bicycle to be stored and accessed easily if a chain link breaks during a user's bike ride. A pair of finger/thumb formations 35, 36 are provided in the side walls of the tool to assist the user in removing the links therefrom.

As can be seen in figures 2 and 3 also, the tool 10 also includes a formation for engaging with an additional tool part 160 (examples of which can be seen in figures 22 to 25 -discussed later).

Referring to figures 7 through 12, these show a second tool 100 in accordance with the present invention. Features in common with the first tool 10 have been given the same reference numeral with the addition of 100. It should be appreciated, however, that the second tool 100 need not include all or any of the corresponding features of the first tool. For example, embodiments of the second tool may or may not have a coin formation 125 and may or may not have the formation 113.

It can be seen from these figures that the tools 10 and 100 are shaped differently from each other. In other words, the tools 10, 100 are not identical to each other. This is advantageous as it permits the first and second tools to be configured for different uses in addition to their use for assisting in the removal of a tyre from a rim of a bicycle wheel. The end result is a compact and multi-use accessory for a bike rider.

It can be seen from the figures that the second tool 100 has a corresponding projection 116 on its upper surface which permits it to be connected to another tool (e.g. a tool 10 or a further tool 100). In addition, the second tool 100 has a further second formation 60 provided as a recess on an underside of the tool 100 directly beneath the formation 116. This recess 60 is shaped so as to correspond to the projections 16, 116 and thus includes tapered walls 161, 162 which ensure that the first and second tools 10, 100 are held relative to one another in the configurations shown in figures 13 through 16.

The second tool 100, instead of being provided with a spoke engaging formation, includes a pair of spoke nipple engaging formations 151, 152 which are laterally spaced from one another at the end 149 of the tool 100. The spoke nipple engaging formations 151, 152 are dimensioned to fit different sized spoke nipples. In this example the formation 151 is configured to engage with a nipple which measures 3.3mm across, whereas the formation 152 is configured for engaging a nipple which measures 3.5mm across. It should be appreciated that these formations may be configured for other sizes/shapes of spoke nipples.

It can be seen from figures 8, 10 and 12 that the end 149 of the tool 100 is also provided with an allen key formation 150, in this example a 4mm allen key formation, which extends away from the general plane of the tool 100, substantially perpendicularly away therefrom. It can be seen from the figures that when the first and second tools 10, 100 are connected to each another the formation 150 is aligned and extends partially into the recess 20 of the first tool 10. This formation 150 is configured for use as an allen key, but also for the connection of any one of the additional tool parts 160', 160", 160" as shown in figures 22 to 25. These additional tool parts include larger allen keys, e.g. 5/6mm but also screwdriver formations or star-shaped formations. In each of these additional tool parts there is provided a recess 163, 163', 163", 163" which in use is slotted over the formation 150. Each additional tool part 160 includes a magnetised portion which ensures that the parts are held relative to one another during use. Again it can be seen from figures 13 through 16 that one of the additional tool parts can be held in situ when the first and second tools 10, 100 are held relative to one another.

The spoke nipple formations 151, 152 and the allen key formation 150 are connected to each other. In this example they are integrally formed as one component part 170, of a metallic material which is then held in position when the second tool 100 is injection moulded. This ensures that the dimensions of the formations 151, 152 and 150 are accurate and that they can withstand repeated use without deformation.

Whilst in the figures and these examples it can be seen that the first and second tools 10, 100 are configured for connection to each other, it is within the scope of the present invention that a third (or fourth or fifth, and so on) of said tools could be provided for connection, for example, to the formation 116 of the second tool 100. This further third tool could be provided with formations and features corresponding to one or both of the first and second tools 10, 100 but could also be provided with further tools for use by a bicycle rider.

Referring to figures 26 to 28, these show a third tool 200 in accordance with the present invention. The third tool 200 is shown connected to the first and second tools such that they are stacked one on top of the other. The order can be changed, if desired. Features in common with the first tool 10 have been given the same reference numeral with the addition of 200. Likewise, features in common with the second tool 100 have been given the same reference numeral with the addition of 100. It should be appreciated, however, that the third tool 200 need not include all or any of the corresponding features of the first and/or second tools 10, 100. For example, embodiments of the third tool may or may not have the formation 213.

It can be seen from these figures that the tool 200 is shaped differently from the tools 10, 100. In other words, the tools 10, 100, 200 are not identical to each other. This is advantageous as it permits the first, second and third tools to be configured for different uses in addition to their use for assisting in the removal of a tyre from a rim of a bicycle wheel. The end result is a compact and multi-use accessory for a bike rider.

Whilst not shown in the figures, the third tool 200 has on its underside a formation 260 (similar to the second tool 100) to receive the formation 116 of the second tool 100 to connect the tools together (as shown in figures 26 and 28).

The third tool 200 includes a compass 290 held in a recess in its upper surface. The third tool 300 also includes a clip formation 290 to permit a user to clip the tools to their clothing or to a bag or the like. The formation 290 may be shaped so as to be able to provide the same functionality as the formations 16, 116, such that it can be received in the or a like recess 160.

Like the tools 10 and 100, one end of the tool 200 is provided with a formation 213 which is a substantially part-cyclindrical recess which extends transversely across the end of the tool. The purpose of the formation 213 is for insertion into a space between a bead of a tyre and a rim of a wheel. Set in from a remote end of the formation 213 is a formation 213a, which enables that end of the tool to be used as a bottle opener, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

An end of the tool 200 opposite the formation 213 includes three recesses 271, 272, 273, which are positioned in a linear array. The recesses 271, 272, 273 provide storage for holding the additional tool parts 160', 160", 160" as shown in figures 22 to 25. This means that the additional tools parts are readily accessible to a user and can be interchanged with the tool part 160 for use in bicycle maintenance.

Referring to figure 29, this shows a fourth tool 300 in accordance with the present invention. Features in common with the first tool 10 have been given the same reference numeral with the addition of 200. Likewise, features in common with the second tool 100 have been given the same reference numeral with the addition of 100. It should be appreciated, however, that the fourth tool 300 need not include all or any of the corresponding features of the first and/or second and/or third tools 10, 100, 200. For example, embodiments of the fourth tool may or may not have the formation 313.

It can be seen from these figures that the tool 300 is shaped differently from the tools 10, 100, 200. In other words, the tools 10, 100, 200, 300 are not identical to each other. This is advantageous as it permits the first, second, third, fourth and any subsequent tools to be configured for different uses in addition to their use for assisting in the removal of a tyre from a rim of a bicycle wheel. The end result is a compact and multi-use accessory for a bike rider.

Whilst not shown in the figures, the fourth tool 300 has on its underside a formation 360 (similar to the second tool 100) to receive the formation 16 of the first tool 10, the formation 116 of the second tool 100 or the formation 290 of the third tool 200, to connect the tools together. Thus the first, second, third, fourth and any subsequent tools can be connected to each other such that they are stacked one on top of the other.

The tool 300 includes a light source in the form of an LED light 391 positioned at the end of the tool opposite the formation 313. The LED light 391 is operated by a user-depressible switch or button 392 provided in an upper surface of the tool 300. A battery storage recess 393 is provided with an opening in a side wall of the tool 300, which is covered by a suitable waterproof cover or seal.

The tools 10, 100, 200, 300 are injection moulded from a suitable plastic material, but they could be made from any appropriate material, e,g. metal.

It will be appreciated that the various features described in relation to one embodiment may be suitably and advantageously combined with features of the other embodiments in accordance with the present invention.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A pair of tools for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel, wherein: a first of said tools is generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein a second of said tools is also generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein the first and second tools have respective cooperating second formations for connecting the tools relative to each other, and wherein the first and second tools are shaped differently from each other.
2. A pair of tools for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel, wherein: a first of said tools is generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein a second of said tools is also generally elongate and has a respective first formation at one end thereof for insertion into a space between a bead of the tyre and the rim, wherein the first and second tools have respective cooperating second formations for connecting the tools relative to each other, and wherein the first and second tools are not identical to each other.
3. A pair of tools according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the first formation of each tool extends away from a general plane of the tool.
4. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein each tool includes a third formation, positioned at an end of the tool opposite the first formation, and wherein the third formation of the first tool is shaped differently from the third formation of the second tool.
5. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein the second formations of the first and second tools enable the tools to be releasably connected to each other.
6. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein the second formation on one of the tools is a recess and the second formation on the other of the tools is a projection.
7. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein the second formation of each tool is positioned in between the first and third formations.
8. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 4 wherein the third formation of the first tool extends away from a generally plane of the first tool in a direction generally opposite or opposite to the direction in which the first formation extends away from said plane.
9. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein the first tool includes a first portion, which includes the first formation, and a second portion, which includes the third formation, and wherein the first portion tapers as it extends towards the first formation.
10. A pair of tools according to claim 9 wherein the second portion tapers as it extends towards the third formation.
11. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein the first formation of each tool is generally curved in side view.
12. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 4 wherein the third formation of the first tool is generally curved in side view.
13. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 4 wherein the third formation of the first tool includes a recess or channel for receiving a spoke of the wheel.
14. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 4 wherein the third formation of the second tool includes a recess or channel for receiving a spoke of the wheel.
15. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 4 wherein the third formation of the first tool includes a formation for engagement with a spoke nipple.
16. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 4 wherein the third formation of the second tool includes a formation for engagement with a spoke nipple.
17. A pair of tools according to claim 15 or claim 16 wherein two of said spoke nipple engaging formations are provided, preferably adjacent each other, and preferably still wherein the spoke nipple engaging formations are different sizes.
18. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein one of the tools includes a recess for receiving and holding therein a coin.
19. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein each tool includes a recess for receiving and holding therein a coin.
20. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein one of the tools, preferably the second tool, includes a formation for receiving and holding therein the whole or a part of a link of a chain.
21. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein one of the tools, preferably the second tool, includes a pair of formations for receiving and holding therein respective halves of link of a chain.
22. A pair of tools according to claim 20 or claim 21 wherein the tool includes at least one, preferably two, formations which communicate with the chain link receiving formation(s), to assist in removal of the chain link or chain link part therefrom.
23. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein one of the tools, preferably the first tool, includes an allen key formation.
24. A pair of tools according to claim 23 wherein the allen key formation extends transversely, preferably perpendicularly, away from the general plane of the tool.
25. A pair of tools according to claim 23 or claim 24 wherein the allen key formation is positioned at or near an end of the tool opposite from the first formation.
26. A pair of tools according to claim 23, 24 or 25 wherein the allen key formation and the a formation for engagement with a spoke nipple are connected to each other.
27. A pair of tools according to claim 23, 24, 25 or 26 where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 15 or 16 wherein the allen key formation and the a formation for engagement with a spoke nipple are integrally formed as one component.
28. A pair of tools according to any preceding claim wherein one of the tools, preferably the second tool, includes a formation for engaging with an additional tool part, preferably an allen key part.
29. A pair of tools according to claim 28 where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 23 wherein the additional tool part is also engagable with the allen key formation.
30. A pair of tools according to claim 29 wherein the additional tool part is an allen key which is larger than the allen key formation.
31. A pair of tools according to claim 28, 29 or 30 wherein the additional tool part includes a recess for receiving the allen key formation.
32. A tool for use in removing a bicycle tyre from a rim of a wheel including one or more or all of the features as set out in claims 3 to 31.
33. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance, including a pair of tools according to any one of claims 1 to 31.
34. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to claim 33, including a further, third, tool.
35. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to claim 34 wherein the tools are configured for connected to each other, preferably such that they are stacked one on top of the other.
36. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to any one of claims 33 to 35, including a further, fourth, tool, and preferably a fifth tool.
37. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to any one of claims 33 to 36 wherein the tools are configured for connection to each other, preferably such that they are stacked one on top of the other.38. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to any one of claims 33 to 36 wherein one of the tools includes a bottle opener formation.
38. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to any one of claims 33 to 37 wherein one of the tools includes a compass.
39. An apparatus for use in bicycle maintenance according to any one of claims 33 to 38 wherein one of the tools includes a light source.
40. A tool substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.
41. A pair of tool substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.
42. Any novel feature or novel combination of features described herein with reference to and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.