Bicycle component and bicycle comprising bicycle component

Abstract

The invention relates to a bicycle component, in particular a bicycle wheel component, comprising at least one side wall, preferably at least two side walls, where at least a portion of at least one side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one pattern of flakes, said pattern of flakes comprising a plurality of arrays of flakes, the plurality of scale arrays are configured to optimize aerodynamic characteristics of the bicycle component and thus the bicycle itself.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a bicycle component, particularly a bicycle wheel component. The invention also relates to a bicycle comprising at least the aforementioned bicycle component.

[0002] In bicycle product design, the focus is often on improving user performance. A key design parameter is, for example, the bicycle's weight. Another important parameter is the frame shape, which provides better stability, or the handlebar position, designed to optimize the user's riding position. Bicycle design can also be improved by altering aerodynamic characteristics. Improving the aerodynamics of a bicycle is particularly important for users in both amateur and professional cycling. Improved aerodynamics leads to faster riding and / or the possibility of riding longer distances with similar physical exertion. One example is the use of chainrings as wheels in time trials. Similarly, the user's position on the bicycle also has a significant impact on aerodynamics during time trials. Further improvements to bicycle design are still needed to further enhance the aerodynamics of the bicycle or its components.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide at least one (two-wheeled) bicycle component with improved aerodynamic characteristics.

[0004] The present invention provides a bicycle component comprising at least one sidewall, preferably at least two sidewalls, wherein at least a portion of at least one sidewall comprises at least one surface texture, said surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern or scale-like pattern. The at least one scale pattern particularly comprises a plurality of scale arrays.

[0005] A bicycle component includes at least one sidewall, preferably at least two sidewalls, wherein at least a portion of at least one sidewall includes at least one surface texture comprising a scale pattern containing multiple scale arrays, offering several advantages over existing technologies. Providing at least one sidewall with at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern containing multiple scale arrays results in improved aerodynamic characteristics for the bicycle component, and thus the bicycle itself, during use. The surface texture including the scale pattern leads to a relatively low coefficient of friction for the sidewall, which in practice results in lower drag. The surface texture is preferably positioned such that it comes into direct contact with air, particularly airflow, during use. The scale pattern comprising multiple scale arrays results in velocity differences or velocity stripes in the airflow around or above at least a portion of the sidewall of the bicycle component. Velocity stripes can be defined as a visualization of the positional history of a set of particles identified by velocities significantly different from the flow average. The scale-like surface texture particularly results in airflow around or across the scale-like surface texture. The airflow can include laminar and turbulent modes. The scale arrays help minimize disturbances to the airflow as it passes through. Because the scales are positioned adjacent to each other in multiple arrays, the air is disturbed and will pass at least partially along a zigzag pattern through two adjacent scale arrays. During use, multiple zigzag patterns appear along the sidewalls of the bicycle component. The zigzag pattern comprises alternating clockwise and counterclockwise vertices. When the bicycle component according to the invention is in use, air vertices appear along the surface of the bicycle component. The generated vertices are not random but are specifically induced in a manner that generates velocity stripes. The alternating sequence of clockwise and counterclockwise vertices produces a zigzag flow pattern. According to the law of conservation of mass, this increases velocity, thereby generating velocity stripes. Velocity stripes weaken / delay the TS wave, thus maintaining the laminar boundary layer for a longer time. The surface friction coefficient of the laminar boundary layer is lower than that of the turbulent boundary layer, thus producing less drag. The scale pattern applied according to the invention specifically results in a reduction and / or at least a delay of the Tollmien-Schlichting wave. This reduces aerodynamic drag compared to smooth surfaces that typically form Tollmien-Schlichting waves. Therefore, a bicycle including at least one bicycle component according to the invention can have improved aerodynamic characteristics, for example, resulting in less energy being required to drive the bicycle, thereby improving efficiency.

[0006] When referring to bicycle components, it may also refer to bicycle components and / or two-wheeled bicycle components. Bicycle components according to the invention are not limited to bicycles; it is conceivable that components according to the invention can be applied to unicycles, tricycles, motorcycles, and / or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component is a bicycle wheel component or a bicycle wheel. When referring to a bicycle wheel component, it may also refer to a wheel component or a (two-wheeled) bicycle wheel component.

[0007] Bicycle wheel components are typically configured to rotate during use. At least one sidewall and preferably at least two sidewalls of the bicycle wheel component include at least one surface texture, said surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern. At least one scale pattern, particularly including multiple scale arrays applied to rotatable bicycle components, such as bicycle wheel components or the bicycle wheel itself, can achieve a reduction in aerodynamic drag. The rotation of the bicycle wheel component affects the direction of air on the (textured) surface, leading to optimization difficulties. During the rotation of the bicycle wheel component, the direction of air relative to the (textured) surface rotates a full 360 degrees relative to the wheel. The airflow typically has the highest velocity in the outer region of the bicycle wheel, and therefore this is also the region where maximum drag reduction can be achieved. Experiments have shown that when a bicycle wheel component is applied with a surface texture including a scale pattern comprising multiple scale arrays, a reduction in aerodynamic drag of at least 5% to 10%, and possibly even up to 25%, can be achieved. Wind tunnel tests have shown that using scale patterns on at least a portion of bicycle components, whether dynamic or static during use, can significantly improve the aerodynamic performance of the bicycle. The scales of the scale pattern are specifically oriented such that the scales extend at least partially in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the bicycle components and / or the bicycle including the bicycle components.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component, particularly the bicycle wheel component, includes or is formed of a rim. It is also conceivable that the bicycle component, particularly the bicycle wheel component, includes or is formed of spokes and / or a disc. For example, it is also possible that at least a portion of at least one sidewall of the bicycle component, particularly the bicycle wheel component, comprising a surface texture according to the invention, forms part of a rim, spoke, and / or disc. It is conceivable that the rim, spokes, or multiple spokes and / or disc of the bicycle wheel component according to the invention are provided with a surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern, said scale pattern comprising multiple scale arrays. For example, the bicycle wheel component according to the invention may include at least one sidewall comprising at least one surface texture, said surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern, said scale pattern comprising multiple scale arrays, said sidewall forming part of at least one rim, spoke, and / or disc. For example, it is conceivable that at least one rim, spoke, disc, or rim comprises a continuous and / or annular scale pattern. The rim may include at least one sidewall, preferably at least two sidewalls. At least a portion of at least one sidewall, and preferably each sidewall, includes at least one surface texture, said surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern or scaly pattern. Possibly, at least one sidewall of at least one rim, spoke, and / or disc, and preferably each sidewall, is substantially completely covered by a surface texture comprising a scale pattern. It is also conceivable that at least one rim, spoke, disc, or rim includes multiple areas provided with a scale pattern. The scale pattern can, for example, be a discontinuous scale pattern. At least one bicycle wheel component can also be formed of a closed wheel. At least a portion of at least one side surface of the closed wheel can include a scaly surface texture according to the invention. This can further optimize aerodynamic characteristics and will be advantageous, for example, for time trial purposes.

[0009] Alternatively, at least one bicycle component may be formed from a portion of the bicycle frame or the bicycle frame itself. Using a frame that includes at least one surface texture comprising a scale pattern of multiple arrays of scales allows the (static) bicycle frame to benefit from an aerodynamic configuration. Therefore, the bicycle itself has improved aerodynamic characteristics during use. For example, it is conceivable that the outer surfaces of the seat tube, top tube, head tube, down tube, handlebars, and / or at least one fork include the surface texture according to the invention. Alternatively, at least one bicycle component according to the invention may be formed from a helmet, such as an aerodynamic helmet.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component includes at least two opposing sidewalls, each sidewall comprising at least one surface texture including at least one scale pattern comprising multiple scale arrays. Such an embodiment can positively contribute to the stability of the bicycle component and therefore the bicycle itself during use. Using at least two opposing sidewalls, each sidewall comprising at least one surface texture including at least one scale pattern comprising multiple scale arrays, can particularly improve steering torque and / or result in reduced lateral forces, thereby improving bicycle handling. The bicycle component preferably has substantially symmetrical characteristics, such as mirror symmetry. For example, it can be imagined that the first sidewall is substantially opposite to the opposing second sidewall.

[0011] Possibly, at least one sidewall, and preferably at least two sidewalls, of at least one bicycle component is substantially curved. The at least one substantially curved sidewall and preferably at least two substantially or at least partially curved sidewalls can positively contribute to the aerodynamic characteristics of the bicycle component. In such embodiments, the size of the scales can be imagined to be determined based on their positioning. For example, it can be imagined that at least a portion of the scales in at least one first array extending onto a first curved segment is larger than at least a portion of the scales in at least one other array extending onto another segment having a smaller curvature than the first segment. It can also be imagined that at least one first array extending onto a first curved segment comprises fewer scales than at least one other array extending onto another segment having a smaller curvature than the first segment, and vice versa. It can also be imagined that each scale array comprises the same number of scales. For example, it is also possible that at least one sidewall, and preferably at least two sidewalls, is substantially circular, elliptical, and / or rounded. It is possible that the size of the scales is determined based on the degree of curvature of the scale array. When referring to the size of the scales, it may refer to, for example, thickness, orientation, and / or shape.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of adjacent scales is integrally connected to each other. More preferably, substantially all scales of the surface texture of at least one sidewall are integrally connected. In this way, a relatively stable and / or robust configuration of the surface texture can be obtained. This will positively promote the distribution of laminar and tubular airflow on the surface texture during use. Furthermore, the integral connection of at least a portion of adjacent scales is advantageous from a manufacturing point of view and can positively contribute to the durability of the bicycle component. For example, it is possible that at least one sidewall of the bicycle component, and preferably at least two or each sidewall, includes a scale pattern in which all scales are integrally connected to adjacent scales.

[0013] At least one side of a bicycle component according to the invention may include a plurality of surface textures, wherein each surface texture includes a scale pattern, and wherein at least a first surface texture is positioned at a distance from another surface texture. It is possible that the first surface texture includes the same or different scale pattern as the other surface texture. It is possible that at least one sidewall, and preferably at least two or each sidewall, includes at least one continuous surface texture. For example, it is conceivable that at least one surface texture of at least one sidewall includes at least one scale pattern, said scale pattern comprising a plurality of annular scale arrays. For example, it is conceivable that a plurality of annular circular scale arrays form a scale pattern.

[0014] Preferably, at least a portion of the bicycle component is dimensionally stable. It is also possible that at least a portion of the bicycle component is made of a substantially rigid material. This is particularly advantageous if the surface texture, which includes at least one scale pattern, is dimensionally stable and / or made of a substantially rigid material. Dimensionally stable and / or substantially rigid surface textures can also positively contribute to the laminar and tubular airflow distribution on the surface texture during use.

[0015] For example, it is conceivable that at least a portion of at least one bicycle component is made of at least one metal and / or at least one polymer. For example, it is conceivable that at least a portion of at least one bicycle component is at least partially made of a polymer material. It is particularly advantageous to use reinforcing polymers, such as, but not limited to, fiber-reinforced polymers. Such polymers can be reinforced with glass fibers, for example. Optionally, the bicycle component may also be at least partially made of carbon. It is also possible, for example, that the bicycle component is at least partially made of an alloy, particularly an alloy containing aluminum, magnesium, and / or scandium.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the scales, and preferably all the scales forming at least one scale pattern, have substantially the same shape. This can contribute positively to airflow control. Alternatively, it can be envisioned, for example, that at least one scale pattern comprises at least two different types of scales, or multiple different types of scales. At least one scale pattern preferably comprises a repeating pattern. Preferably, at least a portion of the scales in at least two adjacent scale arrays are offset relative to each other. At least a portion of the scales in at least one scale pattern is preferably formed as a zigzag pattern. Using adjacent scale arrays that are offset relative to each other and / or form a zigzag pattern facilitates the formation of laminar airflow on the scales during use of bicycle components and prevents Tollmien-Schlichting waves. The scales forming the scale pattern are preferably uniformly distributed along the pattern.

[0017] At least a portion, and preferably multiple scales, of a scale are at least partially formed into a circular and / or elliptical shape. For example, at least the proximal end of a scale may be at least partially formed into a circular and / or elliptical shape. At least one scale, and preferably each scale, may be formed, for example, into a crown, neck, and / or base. At least a portion of the crown of at least one scale, and preferably each scale, may be at least partially circular, elliptical, rhomboid, and / or rounded. The crown, neck, and / or base of a first scale may be integrally connected to adjacent scales in the same scale array. It is also conceivable that the crown of a first scale may be integrally connected to the crown of an adjacent scale in another scale array.

[0018] At least one array, and preferably the scales in each array, can have substantially the same size. This can positively contribute to a consistent flow pattern during use of the bicycle component. It is possible that at least a portion of the scales in the first array has a different size than at least a portion of the scales in at least another array. The size of the scales in the scale pattern can vary depending on their relative position on the bicycle component.

[0019] It is possible that at least one scale array, and particularly each scale array, is shaped into a circle. This is particularly useful when the bicycle component is a bicycle wheel component. The scale array may, for example, extend along the circumference of the bicycle wheel component. It is also possible that the scale array is concentrically positioned such that the scales in the array on the outer circle are larger than the scales in the array on the inner circle. In the outer region or outer circumference of the bicycle wheel component, the airflow typically has a higher velocity than in the inner region or inner circumference. Fitting the scale size to the expected airflow velocity can positively contribute to the overall stability and efficiency of the bicycle component during use. For example, using relatively large scales on the outer circle can positively contribute to drag reduction.

[0020] It is also conceivable that a first cross-section of at least one scale array defines a first height profile including alternating heights, and a second cross-section of the scale array defines a second height profile including alternating heights, wherein the first height profile differs from the second height profile. The use of this embodiment can positively contribute to the formation of laminar and / or turbulent flow where desired. For example, it is possible that the height difference in the alternating heights of the first pattern differs from the height difference in the second pattern. For example, the second pattern may have more alternations over the same length span. The surface texture according to the invention can be configured such that at least two parallel velocity path lines appear during the movement of the bicycle component.

[0021] Preferably, there is at least one scale array, and more preferably each scale array includes at least partially overlapping scales. It is also conceivable that the scales of adjacent scale arrays at least partially overlap each other. The scale pattern preferably has a high scale density. This can positively contribute to the aerodynamic effect of the scale pattern.

[0022] The scales in at least one scale array or the scale pattern itself can have a uniform thickness. However, it is also conceivable that the scales in at least one scale array or the scale pattern itself have a non-uniform thickness. For example, it is conceivable that the thickness gradually increases along the length of at least one scale, and preferably each scale. It is also possible that at least a portion of the scales is partially inclined. The scales in at least one scale array are preferably oriented in the same direction. If the scale array is annular, it is conceivable that the scales are oriented in a circular configuration.

[0023] In possible embodiments, at least a portion, and preferably all, of the scales has a radius in the range of 1 to 20 mm, more preferably in the range of 4 mm to 18 mm, more preferably in the range of 5 mm to 15 mm, and even more preferably in the range of 9 mm to 12 mm. Experiments have shown that using scales of this size is particularly suitable for bicycle components. As mentioned above, the size of the scales preferably varies with each scale array. The visible length of at least a portion, and preferably all, of the scales is, for example, in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 6 mm to 15 mm, more preferably 8 mm to 12 mm, and even more preferably in the range of 9 mm to 11 mm. The visible length can be defined, for example, as the maximum length of at least one scale in the direction of array extension. It is also possible that the maximum extension height of at least a portion, and preferably all, of the scales can be in the range of 0.1-1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm. The extension height of the scale can be defined as the height between the distal ends of the scale and the overlapping adjacent scales. Possibly, the distance between the centerlines of at least two adjacent scales in the same scale array is in the range of 2-40 mm. It is conceivable that, in one embodiment, the distance between the centerlines of at least two adjacent scales in the same scale array is in the range of 15 mm to 30 mm or 20 to 25 mm. For example, it is also possible that the distance between the centerlines of at least two adjacent scales in two adjacent scale arrays is in the range of 10 mm to 30 mm, for example, 15 mm to 20 mm.

[0024] When referring to scale patterns or scale-like patterns, it can also refer to feather patterns, snake patterns, and / or leaf patterns. At least one scale pattern is, for example, a fish scale pattern or an artificial fish scale pattern. It is also possible that at least a portion, and preferably multiple scales, have an organic shape. Any conventional scale shape can be applied. For example, at least a portion of the scale can have a ctenoid, scuteoid, rhomboid, and / or cycloid shape.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, bicycle components, particularly bicycle wheel components, are manufactured from a single piece. This can positively contribute to ease of manufacture and / or component durability. It can also positively contribute to the aerodynamic characteristics of the bicycle components.

[0026] At least a portion of at least one bicycle component can be manufactured, for example, by 3D printing. It is also possible that, for example, surface textures including at least a scale pattern and / or at least one sidewall are manufactured by 3D printing. In another advantageous embodiment, the entire bicycle component can be manufactured by 3D printing. The advantage of 3D printing is that it requires less material, which is advantageous from an environmental perspective. Furthermore, 3D printing can typically achieve a relatively high level of detail, which is beneficial for the production of scale patterns. 3D printing offers the freedom to use different materials according to the desired properties of the final product. Using 3D printing technology can also be advantageous from an economic perspective, as it is generally cheaper than casting. Moreover, alloys, particularly aluminum alloys, have a much lower specific strength when produced through casting processes. Compared to 3D printing, to achieve the same strength as an aluminum-based casting alloy, the weight of the bicycle component would become at least twice that of a 3D-printed component.

[0027] The present invention also relates to a bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component according to the invention. The bicycle according to the invention will benefit from improved aerodynamic characteristics, which, for example, results in less energy being required to propel the bicycle, thereby increasing efficiency. Alternatively, the invention relates to a unicycle, tricycle, motorcycle, and / or the like comprising at least one bicycle component according to the invention.

[0028] This invention will be further clarified by the following non-limiting provisions.

[0029] 1. Bicycle parts, especially bicycle wheel parts, including: At least one sidewall, preferably at least two sidewalls; At least a portion of at least one sidewall includes at least one surface texture, the surface texture including at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern including a plurality of scale arrays.

[0030] 2. The bicycle component according to Clause 1 includes at least two opposing sidewalls, wherein each sidewall includes at least one surface texture, the surface texture including at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern including a plurality of scale arrays.

[0031] 3. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of adjacent scales are integrally connected to each other.

[0032] 4. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the surface texture comprises at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern comprising a plurality of annular scale arrays.

[0033] 5. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the bicycle component is dimensionally stable, and / or wherein at least a portion of the bicycle component is made of a substantially rigid material.

[0034] 6. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion, and preferably all, of the scales forming the scale pattern have substantially the same shape.

[0035] 7. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the scales of at least two adjacent scale arrays are offset relative to each other.

[0036] 8. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the scales of the first array has a different size than at least a portion of the scales of at least another array.

[0037] 9. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one scale array, preferably each scale array, is formed in a circular shape, and wherein the arrays are concentrically positioned such that the scales in the array on the outer circle are larger than the scales in the array on the inner circle.

[0038] 10. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein a first cross-section of at least one scale array forms a first height profile including alternating heights, and a second cross-section of the scale array forms a second height profile including alternating heights, wherein the first height profile is different from the second height profile.

[0039] 11. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the surface texture is configured such that at least two parallel velocity path lines appear when the bicycle component is in motion.

[0040] 12. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one scale array comprises at least partially overlapping scales.

[0041] 13. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the scales in at least one scale array have a non-uniform thickness, and in particular, wherein the thickness gradually increases along the length of each scale.

[0042] 14. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the scales has a radius in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably in the range of 9-12 mm.

[0043] 15. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the visible length of the scales is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0044] 16. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the maximum extension height of at least a portion of the scales is in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0045] 17. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the distance between the center lines of at least two adjacent scales of the same scale array is in the range of 2 mm to 40 mm, preferably in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm.

[0046] 18. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one scale pattern is a fish scale pattern.

[0047] 19. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the bicycle component is made from a single piece.

[0048] 20. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least a portion of the bicycle component is manufactured by 3D printing.

[0049] 21. A bicycle component according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the bicycle component is a bicycle wheel component, and includes at least one sidewall with at least one surface texture forming part of at least one rim, spokes and / or disc, the surface texture including at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern including a plurality of scale arrays.

[0050] 22. A bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component as described in any of the preceding clauses.

[0051] The present invention will be further illustrated by the non-limiting exemplary embodiments shown in the following figures. Wherein: Figure 1 A side view of an embodiment of a bicycle component according to the present invention is shown; Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A perspective view showing the details of bicycle parts; Figure 3a A schematic top view and schematic airflow are shown for an embodiment including a portion of a scale pattern comprising an array of scales. Figure 3b A schematic cross-section and schematic airflow are shown for an embodiment of the scale array; Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the height difference along different cross sections of an embodiment of the scale pattern according to the present invention; Figure 5a -d displays a schematic diagram of the scales, showing the size of the scales that can be used in the scale pattern of the present invention; Figure 6a and 6b This shows yet another possible example of a bicycle component according to the invention; and Figure 7 An embodiment of a bicycle including a wheel having an embodiment of a rim according to the invention is shown; and Figure 8 The frame according to the invention is shown.

[0052] In these figures, similar reference numerals correspond to similar or equivalent elements or features.

[0053] Figure 1A side view schematic diagram of a possible embodiment of a bicycle component 1 according to the present invention is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle component 1 is a bicycle wheel component 1, more specifically, a (bicycle) rim 1a. The rim 1a can be used on professional and / or amateur bicycles or cycling bicycles. Only the rim 1a is shown in the figure; the rim 1a according to the present invention can be used with various types of spokes and / or tires. The rim 1a includes two partially curved sidewalls 2, one of which is shown in the side view. The other sidewall 3 is positioned opposite to the shown sidewall 2. The sidewalls 2 and 3 are (integrally) connected to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewalls 2 and 3 are connected to each other at the inner circumference 11 of the rim 1a. Each of the sidewalls 2 and 3 is provided with a surface texture comprising a scale pattern 5, which includes six annular scale arrays 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, and 56. The annular scale arrays 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, and 56 comprise circular shapes. The inner array 51 comprises scales smaller than those located on the larger circumferences 52, 53, 54, 55, 56. In this embodiment, the outer scale array 56 comprises the largest scales. The scales in each array 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 are oriented in a circular configuration. The size, shape, and / or dimensions of the scales in each array 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 are substantially similar. Within each array 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, the scale patterns partially overlap, thereby creating a surface texture. A schematic cross-section of this surface texture is shown below. Figure 4 As shown.

[0054] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 A detailed perspective view of the rim 1a is shown. In this view, sidewalls 2 and 3 are connected at the inner circumference 11 of the rim 1a. The sidewalls 2 and 3 are provided with a surface texture including a scale pattern 4, which comprises an array of scales. It is also visible in this perspective view that, in the illustrated embodiment, the surface texture is a 3D texture. The scales 511 partially overlap each other and are integrally connected. The scales shown are at least partially circular.

[0055] Figure 3a and Figure 3b A detailed schematic diagram of another possible scale pattern on the bicycle component 10 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 3aA side view of a portion of an embodiment of a rim 10a according to the invention is shown. The sidewall 21 shown includes a surface texture comprising a scale pattern comprising a scale array 30. The figure schematically shows airflow along a zigzag line 31 and a centerline 32 defined by the scale array 30. Experiments have shown that the velocity in the region surrounding the centerline 32 is lower than the velocity in the region surrounding the zigzag line. The zigzag line 31 generates velocity stripes. The scales 30 generate parallel flow-direction velocity stripes 31, 32, which reduce or delay Tollmien-Schlichting waves, thereby reducing aerodynamic drag. Figure 3b A schematic perspective view of scale 30 during use is shown, illustrating the movement arrows. The generated vertices are not random but specifically induced to produce velocity stripes. An alternating sequence of clockwise vertices 35 and counterclockwise vertices 36 produces... Figure 3a The Z-shaped flow pattern 31 is shown. According to the law of conservation of mass, this increases the velocity, thus producing velocity stripes.

[0056] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the height difference along different cross sections of a scale pattern applied to a bicycle component according to the invention is shown. The figure shows a schematic top view of a scale pattern 44 comprising an array 45 of scales 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d. Array 45a is positioned adjacent to and partially overlaps with array 45b. Array 45b is positioned adjacent to and partially overlaps with arrays 45c and 45a. Array 45c is positioned adjacent to and partially overlaps with arrays 45b and 45d. Array 45d (as shown) is positioned adjacent to and partially overlaps with array 45c. First adjacent scales 40a together form a first array 45a, second adjacent scales 40b together form a second array 45b, third adjacent scales 40c together form a third array 45c, and fourth adjacent scales 40d together form a fourth array 45d. The scales of adjacent arrays 45a, 45b, 45c, and 45d at least partially overlap each other. In the figure, a first height profile AA of the cross section along line A is shown below the scale pattern. The figure also shows the second height profile BB of the cross-section along line B. It can be seen from the figure that the first height profile AA differs from the second height profile BB. In this example, the maximum height of profile BB is half the height of profile AA. The frequencies of the peaks within the height profiles are different, specifically twice as high.

[0057] Figure 5a-d shows a schematic diagram of scale 50, illustrating the dimensions of the scales in the scale pattern used in this invention. The scale 50 shown includes a first portion 501 comprising a rectangular shape and a second portion 502 adjacent to the first portion, wherein the second portion includes a leading edge 502a. The leading edge 502a is at least partially circular and / or elliptical. The leading edge 502a of the second portion 502 of the scale 50 can be formed by, for example... Figure 5a The radius R shown is defined.

[0058] Figure 5b A schematic cross-section along the center line 51 of the scale 50 is shown. Figure 5b The scale 50 shown includes an inclined top surface 503, wherein the height H at the leading edge 502a is greater than the height at the opposite end 501a of the scale 50. The maximum height H shown can vary, for example, between 0.2 and 0.6 mm.

[0059] Figure 5c Two scales 50 spaced apart from each other are shown. The distance between the scales 50 is defined by the distance between two center lines 51, and is denoted as width W. Depending on the pattern of the scales and the size of the scales within the array, the width W can remain consistent and / or increase or decrease within the pattern. The scales 50 shown have similar shapes and similar sizes. In another embodiment, the scales may have similar shapes but different sizes. In such an embodiment, the width W can still be defined by the distance between the two center lines 51. The width W shown can vary, for example, within the range of 20-30 mm.

[0060] Figure 5d A top view schematic diagram of four similar scales 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d is shown. Scales 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d have the same size and dimensions and overlap each other. Scale 50a is overlapped by the other scales 50b, 50c, and 50d. The visible portion of scale 50a can be defined by the distance L visible from the top view along the center line 51 of scale 50a. The distance L shown can vary, for example, within the range of 6-15 mm.

[0061] Figures 5a-5d The dimensions and shapes shown can be used in any embodiment of the bicycle parts according to the invention. When using a circular annular scale array, the dimensions will be similar within an array and will differ between arrays.

[0062] Figure 6a and 6b Another possible example of bicycle parts 60a, 60b, and particularly bicycle wheel parts 60a, 60b, according to the invention is shown. Figure 6aThe bicycle wheel component shows a sidewall comprising at least one surface texture including at least one scale pattern 61 comprising a plurality of scale arrays, the sidewall forming part of a spoke 62. The sidewall of the spoke 62 is substantially completely covered by the surface texture including the scale pattern. Figure 6b The diagram shows a scale-like surface texture 61 on the sidewall of a bicycle wheel component 60b forming part of a disc 63. The scale pattern shown is a continuous scale pattern. The scale arrays are oriented as if these arrays would define a circular annular array. The bicycle wheel components 60a and 60b shown are particularly suitable for time trial bicycles. The sidewall of the disc 63 has a surface texture on its outward-facing side, which includes a scale pattern 61 comprising a scale array. In the illustrated embodiment, the scale array is a circular array of at least partially overlapping concentric circles.

[0063] Figure 7 A portion of a bicycle 70 according to the invention is shown. The bicycle 70 includes a fork 701, a frame 702, and a wheel 703. The wheel 703 shown includes a rim 7031 according to the invention and spokes 7032 connected thereto. The rim 7031 is further connected to a tire 7033. The rim 7031 of the wheel 703 includes a surface texture 74, which includes a scale pattern 75 comprising an array of scales. Furthermore, a portion of the frame 702 and a portion of the fork 701 are provided with the surface texture 74, which includes the scale pattern 75 comprising an array of scales. The surface texture 74 is provided on the outward-facing sidewalls of the fork 701, the rim 7031, and the frame 702. On the rim, the surface texture 74 includes an annular circular array of scales. On the fork 701 and the frame 702, the scale arrays are mounted to the surfaces of the sidewalls of the respective components.

[0064] Figure 8 The frame 80 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 8 A fork 801 integrated into the main body portion 802 of a frame 80 is shown. The frame 80 is provided with a surface texture 84, which includes a scale pattern 85 comprising an array of scales. The orientation of the scale array causes speed stripes to appear. This orientation depends on the use of the frame and is specific in this case to reduce drag when the bicycle is moving forward. In the illustrated embodiment, the orientation of the scale array causes speed stripes to appear.

[0065] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein, but that many variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. In such cases, different inventive concepts and / or technical measures of the various modified embodiments described above can be combined, in whole or in part, without departing from the inventive concept described in the appended claims.

[0066] The verb “including” and its variant forms used in this patent document should be understood to include not only “including”, but also “containing”, “substantially containing”, “formed by” and its variant forms.

Claims

1. A bicycle wheel component, comprising a rim, wherein the rim comprises: At least two opposing sidewalls; At least a portion of at least one sidewall includes at least one dimensionally stable surface texture, the surface texture including at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern including a plurality of scale arrays.

2. The bicycle component of claim 1, wherein each sidewall includes at least one surface texture, the surface texture including at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern including a plurality of scale arrays.

3. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of adjacent scales are integrally connected to each other.

4. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the surface texture comprises at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern comprising a plurality of annular scale arrays.

5. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rim is made of a substantially rigid material.

6. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the scales forming the scale pattern, and preferably all the scales, have substantially the same shape.

7. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the scales of at least two adjacent scale arrays are offset relative to each other.

8. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the scales of the first array has a different size than at least a portion of the scales of at least another array.

9. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one scale array, preferably each scale array, is formed in a circular shape, and wherein the array is concentrically positioned such that the scales in the array on the outer circle are larger than the scales in the array on the inner circle.

10. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a first cross-section of at least one scale array forms a first height profile including alternating heights, and a second cross-section of the scale array forms a second height profile including alternating heights, wherein the first height profile is different from the second height profile.

11. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the surface texture is configured such that at least two parallel velocity path lines appear when the rim moves.

12. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one scale array comprises at least partially overlapping scales.

13. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the scales in at least one scale array have a non-uniform thickness, and in particular, wherein the thickness gradually increases along the length of each scale.

14. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the scales has a radius in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably in the range of 9-12 mm.

15. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the scales has a visible length in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 8 mm to 12 mm.

16. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the maximum extension height of at least a portion of the scales is in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

17. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distance between the center lines of at least two adjacent scales of the same scale array is in the range of 2 mm to 40 mm, preferably in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm.

18. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one scale pattern is a fish scale pattern.

19. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle component is made from a single piece.

20. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the bicycle component is manufactured by 3D printing.

21. The bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims further includes at least one spoke and / or disc, the spoke and / or disc comprising at least one surface texture, the surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern, the scale pattern comprising a plurality of scale arrays.

22. A bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component according to any of the preceding claims.

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