Device for waxing a bicycle chain

Abstract

Device for waxing a bicycle chain comprising a) a container that can be filled with wax; b) a heating element designed to heat the container or the contents of the container; c) a temperature sensor; d) a control element designed to detect the temperature of the temperature sensor and to control the heating element in order to set a desired temperature of the container, characterized in that the device is configured to execute a temperature program, wherein the temperature program comprises the following steps in the sequence below: i) Heating the container to a temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C, ii) Maintain the temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C for at least 2 minutes.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for waxing a bicycle chain, comprising a) a container that can be filled with wax; b) a heating element that is intended to heat the container; c) a temperature sensor; d) a control element that is intended to detect the temperature of the temperature sensor and to control the heating element in order to set a desired temperature of the container, characterized in that the device is designed to run through a temperature program, wherein the temperature program comprises the following steps in the following order: heating the container to a temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C, maintaining the temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C for at least 2 minutes. Also described is the use of a device according to the invention for waxing a bicycle chain and a method for waxing a bicycle chain.

[0002] Optimal lubrication of bicycle chains is a crucial factor for the performance and longevity of a bicycle. A well-lubricated chain reduces friction, minimizes wear, and ensures efficient power transfer from the rider to the wheel. Traditionally, bicycle chains are treated with oil-based lubricants to achieve these benefits. In recent years, however, an alternative method of chain lubrication has become established: the use of waxes as lubricants. Lubrication with waxes offers numerous advantages over lubrication with conventional oil-based lubricants. Waxes form a dry, smooth, protective layer on the chain that prevents dirt and dust from penetrating and / or sticking. This keeps the chain cleaner longer and requires relubrication less frequently. Furthermore, lubrication with waxes reduces friction between the chain links, resulting in a quieter and more efficient ride.

[0003] Applying waxes as a lubricant to bicycle chains requires a careful process that begins with immersing the chain in a hot wax bath. After removing it from the wax bath, it is crucial to hang the chain to cool. Our own research has shown that this promotes the formation of a uniform wax layer, thereby improving lubrication efficiency and the longevity of the chain. Particularly problematic is the penetration of the solid lubricant into the spaces between the individual chain links, as these areas are crucial for reducing friction and wear. Inadequate distribution of the solid lubricant into these spaces can significantly impair lubrication effectiveness.

[0004] There is currently a lack of a device and method for the effective and simple application of solid lubricants to bicycle chains, including the targeted lubrication of the spaces between the chain links.

[0005] Our own research has surprisingly shown that particularly efficient lubrication of bicycle chains can be achieved by immersing the bicycle chain in molten wax and then heating it to a treatment temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C. This treatment temperature varies depending on the wax used, but always remains within the specified temperature range. The bicycle chain must be kept in the wax bath at a constant temperature for at least 2 minutes. This process produces a waxed bicycle chain with excellent lubricating properties. In particular, the wax effectively penetrates the spaces between the individual chain links, improving the longevity and efficiency of the chain.

[0006] However, practical application has shown that it is extremely difficult to reliably maintain the required temperature profile—from heating up to reaching the desired treatment temperature and then maintaining this temperature for at least two minutes. This is due to the need for continuous temperature measurement and continuous adjustment of the heat source to maintain a stable temperature.

[0007] In practice, conventional pots are often used to wax bicycle chains. These pots are heated on a stovetop, while the user monitors the temperature using a thermometer. The problem often arises that the optimal treatment temperature of the wax used cannot be consistently reached and maintained. Instead, this temperature is often exceeded, which can have a detrimental effect on the properties of the wax and its additives.

[0008] Furthermore, if handled improperly, there is a risk of the wax catching fire, which represents a significant safety risk.

[0009] The object of the present invention was to provide a device for waxing a bicycle chain, which enables an effective and simple application of wax to the bicycle chain.

[0010] This object is achieved according to the invention by a device for growing a bicycle chain comprising a) a container that can be filled with wax for waxing the bicycle chain; b) a heating element intended to heat the container; c) a temperature sensor; d) a control element designed to detect the temperature of the temperature sensor and to control the heating element in order to set a desired temperature of the container, characterized in that the device is designed to run through a temperature program, wherein the temperature program comprises the following steps in the following order: i) heating the container to a temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C, preferably in the range of 80 to 110 °C, more preferably in the range of 85 to 95 °C, ii) Maintain the temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C or at a temperature in that range for at least 2 minutes.

[0011] Our own investigations have surprisingly shown that bicycle chains waxed using a device according to the invention have very good properties and are not only evenly waxed on the surface, but the wax also fills more than 78 vol.% of all spaces between the chain links.

[0012] It is understood that the container is filled with a wax, e.g. paraffin wax, while the temperature program is running. In this text, dipping or placing a bicycle chain into the container is equated with dipping or placing it into the wax contained in the container. For the purposes of this text, heating the container is also equated with heating the wax contained in the container. Typically, the container is heated and this transfers the heat to the wax contained in the container, although direct heating of the wax by immersing the heating element in the wax is possible. According to the invention, the temperature sensor is mounted in such a way that it can either directly measure the temperature of the wax in the container or measure the temperature of the container, from which a conclusion can be drawn about the temperature of the wax in the container.

[0013] It is preferred according to the invention if the heating in step i) is carried out at a heating rate in the range from 0.3 °C / min to 15 °C / min, preferably in the range from 0.5 °C / min to 10 °C / min, more preferably in the range from 0.5 °C / min to 5 °C / min, particularly preferably in the range from 1 °C / min to 4 °C / min.

[0014] Our own studies have surprisingly shown that a controlled heating rate in the range of 0.3 °C / min. to 15 °C / min., preferably in the range of 0.5 °C / min. to 10 °C / min., more preferably in the range of 0.5 °C / min. to 5 °C / min., and most preferably in the range of 1 °C / min. to 4 °C / min., not only improves the efficiency of wax absorption into the spaces between the chain links, but also leads to a more uniform wax layer across the entire surface of the bicycle chain. This results in increased smoothness of the chain during operation and simultaneously reduces wear on individual chain links, thus extending the chain's overall service life.

[0015] The device's heating element can be controlled either by continuous temperature control or by intermittent temperature control. With continuous temperature control, the heating power is continuously adjusted to precisely reach and maintain the desired temperature in the container. This can be achieved, for example, by PWM control or phase-angle control in combination with PID control, which minimizes temperature fluctuations and enables precise control. Alternatively, temperature control can be achieved intermittently, with the heating element being switched on and off in defined switching cycles as soon as the temperature reaches a certain threshold. This method, often known as two-point control, is simpler to implement but can lead to periodic temperature fluctuations. Both control types can be used according to the invention.

[0016] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature program comprises the following additional steps: (iii) allowing the container or wax to cool to a temperature in the range of 85 to 95 °C; iv) Maintain the temperature in the range of 85 to 95 °C for at least 2 minutes.

[0017] According to the invention, this step is only carried out if the container has been heated to above 95 °C in step i).

[0018] Implementing these additional steps in the temperature program achieves several advantages. Controlled cooling to a temperature in the range of 85 to 95 °C and subsequent holding at this temperature ensures that both the chain and the wax cool evenly. Our own investigations have surprisingly shown that without this intermediate step, there is a possibility that the wax may already begin to solidify in some areas, while the bicycle chain, due to its greater heat storage capacity, still has a significantly higher temperature. Since metal releases heat more slowly than liquid wax, it is otherwise possible that the wax hardens on the wax surface while the inner areas of the chain links are not fully penetrated.By holding at 85 to 95 °C for at least 2 minutes, a thermodynamic equilibrium can be achieved between the wax and the bicycle chain.

[0019] As an alternative to implementing the additional steps iii) and iv) or in addition to these steps, it has proven advantageous if the cooling of the container takes place at a cooling rate of 0.3 °C / min. to 15 °C / min., preferably in the range of 0.5 °C / min. to 10 °C / min., more preferably in the range of 0.5 °C / min. to 5 °C / min., particularly preferably in the range of 1 °C / min. to 4 °C / min.

[0020] Controlled, slow cooling has proven particularly advantageous. Depending on the room temperature at which the device according to the invention is used, it may be necessary to activate the heating element occasionally to prevent the wax from cooling too quickly and thus ensure a uniform cooling rate. Additional heating can be reduced or avoided if the container is insulated and / or provided with a (possibly insulated) lid.

[0021] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature program comprises the following additional steps v) allowing the container to cool to a temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C, preferably in the range of 55 to 65 °C, more preferably in the range of 58 to 60 °C; vi) maintaining the temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C for at least 2 minutes; vii) Allow the container to cool to room temperature.

[0022] The implementation of these additional steps v) and vi) in the temperature program also achieves several advantages. The controlled cooling to a temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C and subsequent holding at this temperature ensures that both the chain and the wax cool evenly. Here, too, it has been surprisingly shown that without this intermediate step, there is a possibility that the wax may already begin to solidify while the bicycle chain, due to its greater heat storage capacity, is still at a significantly higher temperature. Since metal releases heat more slowly than liquid wax, it may otherwise happen that the wax hardens on the wax surface while the inner areas of the chain links are not fully penetrated.By holding at 50 to 70 °C for at least 2 minutes, a thermodynamic equilibrium can be achieved between the wax and the bicycle chain.

[0023] For the purposes of the present invention, room temperature is understood to be a temperature that typically prevails in a closed space and is perceived as comfortable for human presence. Typically, room temperature is in the range of 20°C to 25°C, although higher temperatures are possible in summer and lower temperatures in winter. However, the room temperature must be below the melting point of the wax used. Ideally, the room temperature is at least 10°C, preferably at least 20°C, below the melting point of the wax.

[0024] For the purposes of this text, the melting point of a wax is defined as the temperature at which the wax or composition changes from a solid to a liquid state. In some cases, this may be a temperature range, and in this case, the melting point is defined as the higher limit of the temperature range.

[0025] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step a.ii) until the user places the bicycle chain into the container (step x)).

[0026] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step ii) for at least 5 minutes, preferably for at least 10 minutes, more preferably for at least 15 minutes.

[0027] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step ii) for a maximum of 45 minutes, preferably for a maximum of 30 minutes, more preferably for a maximum of 25 minutes.

[0028] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step iv) for at least 5 minutes, preferably for at least 10 minutes, more preferably for at least 15 minutes.

[0029] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step iv) for a maximum of 45 minutes, preferably for a maximum of 30 minutes, more preferably for a maximum of 25 minutes.

[0030] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step vi) for at least 5 minutes, preferably for at least 10 minutes, more preferably for at least 15 minutes.

[0031] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature is maintained in step vi) for a maximum of 45 minutes, preferably for a maximum of 30 minutes, more preferably for a maximum of 25 minutes.

[0032] Preferably, in step vi) a temperature is set which is 1 to 10 °C, preferably 1.5 to 7 °C, more preferably 2 to 5 °C above the melting point of the wax.

[0033] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature program comprises the following steps ai) heating the container to a temperature approximately 1 to 10 °C above the melting temperature of the wax; a.ii) maintaining the temperature from step ai); x) Place the bicycle chain in the container (or in the liquid wax); (i) heating the container to a temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C; ii) maintaining the temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C for at least 2 minutes; (iii) optionally allowing the container to cool to a temperature in the range of 85 to 95 °C (which temperature is below the temperature in step (ii)); iv) optionally maintaining the temperature in the range of 85 to 95 °C for at least 2 minutes. (v) allowing the container to cool to a temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C; vi) maintaining the temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C for at least 2 minutes; y) Removing the bicycle chain from the container; vii) Allow the container to cool to room temperature.

[0034] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the device additionally comprises e) a notification unit which is intended to send a notification to the user when a condition is met, wherein the notification unit is preferably a visual light unit and / or an acoustic signal generator.

[0035] For example, it would be useful if the user received a notification after turning on the device when the wax is heated to a first temperature and then dipped the bicycle chain into the melted wax. The temperature program then runs through, and the user receives another notification when the user can remove the bicycle chain from the wax.

[0036] It has proven advantageous if the device according to the invention additionally comprises f) an input unit which enables the user to make inputs which are processed by the control element.

[0037] Using the input unit, the user can, for example, confirm that he has dipped the bicycle chain into the melted wax or removed it from the melted wax.

[0038] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the following steps are additionally carried out during the running of the temperature program x) Place the bicycle chain in the container and y) Removing the bicycle chain from the container;

[0039] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the device additionally comprises g) a sound generator unit which is designed to irradiate the container with sound having a frequency in the range of 5 to 200 kHz, preferably in the range of 20 to 80 kHz, more preferably in the range of 20 to 40 kHz.

[0040] Our own investigations have surprisingly shown that waxed bicycle chains produced using the described device according to the invention are not only evenly waxed on the surface, but the wax also fills more than 83 vol.% of all spaces between the chain links when the wax or bicycle chain is additionally exposed to sound. The sound treatment results in the removal of air spaces between the chain links and their replacement by wax.

[0041] Our own studies have also shown that the effect of sound leads to oils or greases adhering to the bicycle chain, such as those found in a brand-new bicycle chain, being completely or at least partially removed from the bicycle chain and distributed throughout the manufactured or provided composition, thus being carried away from the bicycle chain. The otherwise occurring effect, namely that the oil or grease present on the chain leads to a lowering of the melting point of the applied wax and adversely affects the wax's dirt-repellent properties as well as its lubricating properties, does not occur or is greatly reduced with the process according to the invention.Without wishing to commit to a theory, it is assumed that treating the composition with sound has the additional effect of breaking up any oil or grease films on the bicycle chain that has not been cleaned or has been cleaned poorly, allowing the wax-containing composition to spread evenly over the chain without a layer of grease or oil being present between the wax and the chain.

[0042] A device according to the invention is preferred in which the sound has a power in the range of 0.1 to 100 W per liter of composition, preferably in the range of 10 to 60 W per liter of composition, more preferably in the range of 20 to 50 W per liter of composition.

[0043] A device according to the invention is preferred in which the sound has a sound intensity in the range of 0.1 to 50 W / cm 2 preferably in the range of 0.5 to 20 W / cm 2, more preferably in the range of 1 to 15 W / cm 2 has.

[0044] These specific sound intensities and / or power levels enable the sound to have an optimal effect on the wax composition and the bicycle chain. The precisely tuned intensity and power effectively remove air bubbles and impurities, resulting in even and deep penetration of the wax. This significantly improves chain lubrication and protection, extending its service life.

[0045] If the sound intensity or power is too low, air bubbles and impurities may not be sufficiently removed, meaning that the sound does not contribute significantly to penetrating the spaces between the chain links.

[0046] Excessive sound intensity or power levels can cause damage to the bicycle chain or the wax composition. Excessive intensities can lead to overheating or mechanical deterioration of the chain links or the composition, negatively impacting their service life and functionality. Furthermore, the wax itself can be structurally altered by the high sound intensities or power levels, impairing its desired lubricating properties.

[0047] It is preferred according to the invention if the sound generator unit is controlled by the control element.

[0048] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the temperature program comprises the following additional steps - irradiating the container with sound, wherein the additional step is a stand-alone step or occurs simultaneously with one or more of the steps described above. According to the invention, the irradiation of the container with sound preferably occurs in step ii), ie, while maintaining the temperature in the range of 80 to 150°C for at least 2 minutes, and / or in step iv), ie, while maintaining the temperature in the range of 85 to 95°C for at least 2 minutes.

[0049] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the device additionally comprises g) a lifting and lowering device that allows a bicycle chain to be lowered into the container and / or lifted out of the container. This makes handling the chain considerably easier, as the user only has to insert the chain into the lifting and lowering device at the beginning of the waxing process, and the entire process is automated. In addition, contact of the user with hot or contaminated liquids is avoided, thereby increasing safety as the risk of burns or contamination is minimized. A consistent lowering and raising of the chain ensures optimal wetting with wax or cleaning fluid, thereby improving the efficiency of the process. At the same time, the controlled movement contributes to maintaining a clean working environment by reducing splashes or drips.It also ensures that the waxing process always takes place under the same conditions, which leads to consistent quality of the waxed chains.

[0050] A device is preferred according to the invention, wherein the lifting and lowering device a) comprises a lever to the end of which the bicycle chain can be attached, by means of which the bicycle chain can be raised and / or lowered and / or b) includes a cable winch by means of which the bicycle chain can be raised and / or lowered.

[0051] A device is preferred according to the invention, wherein the lifting and lowering device can be controlled via the control element.

[0052] A further aspect of the present invention is the use of a device according to the invention for waxing a bicycle chain. It is particularly preferred if the use comprises one, two, three, or all of the following steps: I) providing a wax for waxing a bicycle chain in the container of the device; II) Starting the temperature program of the device; III) Placing the bicycle chain in the wax, preferably after step i) or during step ii) of the temperature program; IV) Remove the bicycle chain from the wax, preferably after step v) or during step vi) of the temperature program.

[0053] A use is preferred according to the invention, wherein steps III) and / or IV) are carried out automatically by a lifting and lowering device.

[0054] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for growing a bicycle chain comprising the following steps: I) Providing a wax for waxing a bicycle chain in the container of the device according to the invention; II) Starting the temperature program of the device; III) Placing the bicycle chain in the wax, preferably after step i) or during step ii) of the temperature program; IV) Remove the bicycle chain from the wax, preferably after step iii) or during step iv) of the temperature program.

Claims

[1] Device for waxing a bicycle chain comprising (a) a container that can be filled with wax; b) a heating element intended to heat the container or the contents of the container; c) a temperature sensor; d) a control element designed to detect the temperature of the temperature sensor and to control the heating element in order to set a desired temperature of the container, characterized by that the device is designed to run through a temperature program, wherein the temperature program comprises the following steps in the following order: i) heating the container to a temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C, ii) Maintain the temperature in the range of 80 to 150 °C for at least 2 minutes. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the temperature program includes the following additional steps (iii) allowing the container to cool to a temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C; (iv) maintaining the temperature in the range of 50 to 70 °C for at least 2 minutes; v) Allow the container to cool to room temperature. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the device additionally comprises e) a notification unit which is intended to send a notification to the user when a condition is met, wherein the notification unit is preferably a visual light unit and / or an acoustic signal generator. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device additionally comprises f) an input unit which enables the user to make inputs which are processed by the control element. [5] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the device additionally comprises g) a sound generator unit which is designed to irradiate the container with sound of a frequency in the range from 5 to 200 kHz, preferably in the range from 20 to 80 kHz, more preferably in the range from 20 to 40 kHz. [6] Device according to claim 5, wherein the sound has a sound intensity in the range of 0.1 to 50 W / cm 2 preferably in the range of 0.5 to 20 W / cm 2 , more preferably in the range of 1 to 15 W / cm 2 has. [7] Device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that the sound generator unit is controlled by the control element. [8] Device according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by that the temperature program includes the following additional steps - irradiating the container with sound, wherein the additional step is a stand-alone step or occurs simultaneously with one or more of steps i) to v). [9] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device additionally comprises g) a lifting and lowering device which enables a bicycle chain to be sent into the container and / or lifted out of the container. [10] Device according to claim 9, characterized by that the lifting and lowering device a) comprises a lever to the end of which the bicycle chain can be attached, by means of which the bicycle chain can be raised and / or lowered and / or b) includes a cable winch by means of which the bicycle chain can be raised and / or lowered. [11] Device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by that the lifting and lowering device can be controlled via the control element. [12] Use of a device according to one of the preceding claims for waxing a bicycle chain. [13] Use according to claim 12, comprising one, two, three or all of the following steps: I) providing a wax for waxing a bicycle chain in the container of the device; II) Starting the temperature program of the device; III) Placing the bicycle chain in the wax, preferably after step i) or during step ii) of the temperature program; IV) Remove the bicycle chain from the wax, preferably after step iii) or during step iv) of the temperature program. [14] Use according to claim 13, wherein steps III) and / or IV) are carried out automatically by a lifting and lowering device.