Device for hanging a waxed bicycle chain and its use for hanging a bicycle chain

Abstract

Device (1) for hanging a waxed bicycle chain, comprising or consisting of: a) a first stand segment (2) having an elongated section and designed to be erected vertically, with a connecting element (3) at one end of the elongated section; b) a second stand segment (4) having an elongated section and designed to be erected horizontally, with a connecting element (5) at one end of the elongated section; wherein the connecting element (3) of the first stand segment (2) and the connecting element (5) of the second stand segment (4) serve to connect the first stand segment (2) and the second stand segment (4) to each other; wherein the first stand segment (2): i) has a fastening option to be detachably attached to a container which has an interior, such that the first stand segment (2) extends beyond the top edge of the container and the second stand segment (4) is located above the interior of the container, and / or ii) is T-shaped, wherein the elongated section forms the stem of the T-shape, and a connecting element (6, 7) is provided at each of the two ends of the arms of the T-shape, and wherein the device (1) additionally comprises a third stand segment (8) and a fourth stand segment (9), each having an elongated section and designed to be set up horizontally, each having a connecting element (10, 11) at one end of the elongated section, and the connecting elements (10, 11) serve to be connected to the first stand segment (2), forming a substantially U-shaped base which serves as the foot of the device.

Description

[0001] The following is a device for hanging a waxed bicycle chain, comprising or consisting of: a) a first stand segment having an elongated section and intended to be set up vertically, wherein a connecting element is provided at one end of the elongated section; b) a second stand segment having an elongated section and intended to be set up horizontally, wherein a connecting element is provided at one end of the elongated section; wherein the connecting element of the first stand segment and the connecting element of the second stand segment serve to connect the first stand segment and the second stand segment to one another; wherein the first stand segment: i) has a fastening option for being detachably fastened to a container having an interior region,such that the first stand segment protrudes beyond the upper edge of the container and the second stand segment is located above the interior of the container, and / or ii) is T-shaped, wherein the elongated section forms the stem of the T-shape, and a connecting element is provided at each end of the arms of the T-shape, and wherein the device additionally comprises a third stand segment and a fourth stand segment, each having an elongated section and intended to be set up horizontally, wherein a connecting element is provided at each end of the elongated section, and the connecting elements serve to be connected to the first stand segment, thus forming a substantially U-shaped base that serves as the foot of the device. The present invention also relates to the use of a device according to the invention for suspending 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. This keeps the chain cleaner longer and requires relubrication less often. Furthermore, lubrication with waxes reduces friction between the chain links, resulting in a quieter and more efficient ride.

[0003] Applying wax 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 an even layer of wax, thereby improving lubrication efficiency and the longevity of the chain. Cooling over the wax bath has the advantage that any wax particles that fall off or drip into the wax bath can be reused. Hanging the bicycle chain requires a device to hang the chain from.

[0004] The objective of the present invention was to provide a device for hanging a waxed bicycle chain. The device should be sufficiently stable to support a waxed bicycle chain. Furthermore, the device should be designed so that it can be easily assembled and disassembled and has a compact form factor when not in use.

[0005] This object is achieved according to the invention by a device (1) for hanging a waxed bicycle chain, comprising or consisting of: a) a first stand segment (2) having an elongated section and intended to be erected vertically, a connecting element (3) being provided at one end of the elongated section; b) a second stator segment (4) having an elongated section and intended to be erected horizontally, wherein a connecting element (5) is provided at one end of the elongated section; wherein the connecting element (3) of the first stator segment (2) and the connecting element (5) of the second stator segment (4) serve to connect the first stator segment (2) and the second stator segment (4) to one another; where the first stator segment (2): i) has a fastening means for being detachably fastened to a container having an interior region, so that the first stand segment (2) projects beyond the upper edge of the container and the second stand segment (4) is located above the interior region of the container, and / or ii) is T-shaped, wherein the elongated section forms the trunk of the T-shape, and a connecting element (6, 7) is provided at each of the two ends of the arms of the T-shape, and wherein the device (1) additionally comprises a third stand segment (8) and a fourth stand segment (9), each having an elongated section and intended to be erected horizontally, wherein a connecting element (10, 11) is provided at each end of the elongated section, and the connecting elements (10, 11) serve to be connected to the first stand segment (2) so that a substantially U-shaped base is formed which serves as the foot of the device.

[0006] If the first stand segment (2) is T-shaped, it can consist of a single part that has a T-shaped form or it can be constructed from two or more parts, for example from an elongated part that forms the trunk of the T-shape and an elongated part that forms the arms of the T-shape. In the embodiment in which the T-shaped first stand segment (2) is formed from two elongated parts, these can be connected to one another via a connecting element. This connecting element is preferably a screw connection or a plug-in connection. This embodiment has the advantage that the bulky T-shaped first stand segment (2) can be disassembled into two individual straight parts, which simplifies transport and storage.

[0007] According to the invention, it is preferred for the stand segments to be made of metal, preferably aluminum. Our own investigations have shown that metal stand segments not only provide sufficient stability for the device, allowing them to support even heavy bicycle chains, but also offer sufficient resistance to the temperatures encountered during waxing and sufficient chemical resistance to lubricants.

[0008] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the first column segment (2) and the second column segment (4) are arranged or can be arranged substantially at right angles to one another. It has been shown that this can prevent the chain from slipping or falling off the second column segment (4). It is preferred if the second column segment (4) can be aligned horizontally and is aligned horizontally.

[0009] A device according to the invention is preferred in which the support segments are designed as profiles, preferably as flat profiles. Our own investigations have shown that this allows for both high stability and a small package size.

[0010] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the connecting elements are designed as cross overlaps, in which two parts are notched in such a way that they cross when joined together.

[0011] In this text, a cross lap joint refers to a joining technique in which two intersecting parts are notched so that they overlap when joined, forming a stable intersection. This technique enables a force-locking connection that ensures high stability and load-bearing capacity of the connected parts. Another advantage of the cross lap joint is that the connection is easy to manufacture and does not require additional fasteners such as screws or adhesives. Furthermore, the material thickness at the joint is largely retained, which leads to even load distribution and increases the durability of the structure.

[0012] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the connecting elements (3, 5, 10, 11) are designed as plug-in elements which enable a connection by simple plugging, so that the stand segments can be connected to one another and separated again without tools.

[0013] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the fastening possibility on the container consists of holes through which the stand segment can be screwed to the container, preferably using wing screws which enable rapid fastening.

[0014] A device according to the invention is preferred in which the container is heatable. A device according to the invention is preferred in which the container is an ultrasound device. According to the invention, it is preferred if the container is a heatable ultrasound device.

[0015] A device according to the invention is preferred, wherein the device comprises the container, preferably the ultrasound device. In this embodiment, it is also preferred that the ultrasound device is heatable.

[0016] According to the invention, it is preferred if one or more recesses (12) are provided on the upper edge of the second post segment (4), which serve to prevent the suspended chain from slipping. Our own investigations have shown that this can effectively prevent the chain from slipping. Alternatively, it is also possible, although less preferred, for the upper edge of the second post segment (4) to be rubber-coated.

[0017] It is preferred according to the invention if the connecting elements (10, 11) of the cross overlaps either a) the slots of the connecting elements (10, 11) in the T-shaped first stand segment (2) are designed downwards, so that the connecting elements (10, 11) are inserted into the first stand segment (2) from above or b) the slots of the connecting elements (10, 11) in the T-shaped first stand segment (2) are directed upwards so that the connecting elements (10, 11) are inserted into the first stand segment (2) from below or c) one slot of the connecting elements (10, 11) in the T-shaped first stator segment (2) is designed upwards and one slot is designed downwards, so that one connecting element (10, 11) is inserted into the first stator segment (2) from below and one of the connecting elements (10, 11) is inserted into the first stator segment (2) from above.

[0018] According to the invention, it is preferred if the overall height of the first stand segment (2) is in a range from 300 mm to 600 mm, preferably in a range from 400 mm to 550 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 450 mm to 500 mm, wherein the overall height in one embodiment is 470 mm. The advantage of these height ranges is that the device offers sufficient stability to support the weight of the waxed bicycle chain, while at the same time there is enough height to securely suspend the chain above the container. A height of approximately 470 mm also ensures comfortable handling and makes it easier to attach and remove the chain.

[0019] According to the invention, it is preferred if the length of the second post segment (4) is in a range from 100 mm to 400 mm, preferably in a range from 150 mm to 300 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 180 mm to 220 mm, wherein the length is 200 mm in one embodiment. The selection of these length ranges ensures that the second post segment is long enough to hold the chain securely over the interior of the container without it falling or slipping. A length of approximately 200 mm offers a balanced stability and compactness, which facilitates the assembly and transport of the device.

[0020] According to the invention, it is preferred if the length of the third post segment (8) and fourth post segment (9) is in a range from 100 mm to 350 mm, preferably in a range from 150 mm to 300 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 180 mm to 220 mm, wherein the length is 200 mm in one embodiment. The length of these segments helps to ensure that the base of the device has sufficient stability to prevent tipping over, while at the same time remaining compact enough to allow the device to be easily transported and stored. A length of 200 mm offers a good balance between stability and mobility.

[0021] According to the invention, it is preferred if the distances between the recesses (12) of the second stand segment (4) for receiving the chain are in a range from 20 mm to 50 mm, preferably in a range from 25 mm to 40 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 28 mm to 35 mm, wherein the distance is 30 mm in one embodiment. These distances ensure that the bicycle chain is securely received in the recesses without slipping or twisting. A distance of 30 mm enables optimal positioning of the chain and ensures that the wax can drip off evenly, which improves the quality of the lubrication.

[0022] According to the invention, it is preferred if the thickness of the material of the post segment (2) is in a range from 1 mm to 15 mm, preferably in a range from 1.5 mm to 10 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 2 mm to 8 mm, wherein the thickness is 3 mm in one embodiment. A material thickness of 3 mm offers excellent stability to support the weight of the chain and the stress from the wax layer, while at the same time the segment remains light enough to allow easy handling and assembly of the device. This thickness also ensures that the device is both heat-resistant and durable.

[0023] According to the invention, it is preferred if the third stand segment (8) and the fourth stand segment (9) are each longer than the second stand segment (4). The advantage of this design is that the extended segments create a wider and more stable base, which increases the stability of the device and prevents tipping even under uneven loads.

[0024] According to the invention, it is preferred if the device is completely disassembled and can be disassembled and reassembled without tools. This has the advantage that the device can be easily transported and stored in a space-saving manner. Furthermore, the tool-free assembly facilitates quick assembly and disassembly of the device, which is particularly practical for mobile use.

[0025] According to the invention, it is preferred if the stator segments (2, 4, 8, 9) are made of a material with a corrosion-protection coating, preferably an anodized or powder-coated coating, to increase their service life. The corrosion-protection coating increases the resistance of the device to external influences such as moisture and temperature fluctuations, ensuring the longevity and robustness of the device. An anodized or powder-coated coating provides a particularly resistant surface.

[0026] According to the invention, it is preferred if the container additionally comprises a temperature control for adjusting the temperature during the chain soaking process. The advantage of such a temperature control lies in the ability to precisely control the optimal temperature for immersing the chain in the wax. This results in a uniform coating of the chain and an improved lubrication effect, which further increases the service life and performance of the chain.

[0027] According to the invention, it is preferred if the device additionally comprises a mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain into or from the container, wherein the mechanism is preferably operated via a servo motor or a winch. The advantage of this mechanism lies in the simplified handling of the chain during the waxing process. An automatic lowering or lifting mechanism enables even and gentle immersion and removal of the chain, thereby optimizing the waxing process and increasing safety during operation.

[0028] According to the invention, it is preferred if the mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain is arranged on the second stand segment (4) or is part of the second stand segment (4).

[0029] According to the invention, it is preferred if the mechanism is controlled by a time signal that automatically triggers the lowering or removal of the chain after a predetermined period of time. The advantage of this automatic time control is that the user does not have to constantly monitor the waxing process. After a specified period of time, the chain is automatically lifted out of the wax bath, which reduces labor and ensures a consistent treatment time.

[0030] According to the invention, it is preferred if the mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain is controlled by a signal from a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensor is preferably inserted into the container and reacts to a fixed or determinable temperature. The advantage of temperature control is that the chain is automatically raised or lowered as soon as the optimal temperature is reached. This ensures precise control over the waxing process and prevents the chain from remaining in the wax for too long or too short a time, thus improving lubrication efficiency.

[0031] According to the invention, it is preferred if the mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain is controlled by a signal from the ultrasonic device, with the ultrasonic device sending the signal upon completion of the cleaning or waxing process. This ultrasonic control enables particularly precise monitoring of the cleaning or waxing process. Once the process is complete, the chain is automatically removed, ensuring consistent and thorough treatment. This reduces the risk of inadequate cleaning or lubrication and minimizes manual intervention.

[0032] A further aspect of the present invention is the use of the device according to the invention for hanging a bicycle chain.

[0033] A use according to the invention is preferred, wherein the bicycle chain is a waxed bicycle chain.

[0034] A use according to the invention is preferred, wherein the bicycle chain has been waxed in the container and is preferably suspended on the device after waxing until the wax has at least partially hardened, particularly preferably until it has completely hardened.

[0035] Fig.1 shows a device (1) for hanging a waxed bicycle chain. The device comprises a first stand segment (2) which is positioned vertically and has an elongated section. At the upper end of the first stand segment (2) there is a connecting element (3) which serves to connect a second stand segment (4) horizontally. The second stand segment (4) also has an elongated section and is positioned such that it projects beyond the interior of a container. At one end of the second stand segment (4) there is a further connecting element (5) which is connected to the connecting element (3) of the first stand segment (2). In addition, a series of recesses (12) are shown on the second stand segment (4) which serve to accommodate the bicycle chain and prevent it from slipping.The first stand segment (2) further comprises two connecting elements (6) and (7) which serve to horizontally connect the third stand segment (8) and the fourth stand segment (9). These two stand segments form a substantially U-shaped base which serves as the foot of the device. The connecting elements (6), (7), (10), and (11) stably secure the stand segments and enable a robust structure of the device which safely supports the weight of the chain and at the same time allows for easy disassembly. The connecting elements (3), (5), (6), (7), (10), and (11) of the device (1) are designed as functional interfaces which enable the individual stand segments to be quickly and stably connected to one another.The connecting element (3) at the upper end of the first stand segment (2) and the connecting element (5) on the second stand segment (4) are designed to create a firm and stable connection between the vertical and horizontal parts of the device. This connection ensures that the second stand segment (4) remains securely positioned above the container for hanging the chain. The connecting elements (6) and (7) are each attached to the lower areas of the first stand segment (2) and enable the connection to the third (8) and fourth stand segments (9), which are aligned horizontally and form the base of the device. These connecting elements create a U-shaped structure that ensures stability and evenly distributes the weight of the bicycle chain. The connecting elements (10) and (11) are located at the ends of the third (8) and fourth stand segments (9) and complete the U-shaped base of the device.These elements are preferably designed as cross-over joints, which ensure that the segments fit together precisely, creating a force-locking, stable connection. The advantage of this design lies in the easy assembly and disassembly of the device without the need for tools, as well as the high stability guaranteed by the cross-over joint.

Claims

[1] Device (1) for hanging a waxed bicycle chain, comprising or consisting of: a) a first stand segment (2) having an elongated section and intended to be erected vertically, a connecting element (3) being provided at one end of the elongated section; b) a second stator segment (4) having an elongated section and intended to be erected horizontally, wherein a connecting element (5) is provided at one end of the elongated section; wherein the connecting element (3) of the first stator segment (2) and the connecting element (5) of the second stator segment (4) serve to connect the first stator segment (2) and the second stator segment (4) to one another; wherein the first stator segment (2): i) has a fastening means for being detachably fastened to a container having an interior region, so that the first stand segment (2) projects beyond the upper edge of the container and the second stand segment (4) is located above the interior region of the container, and / or ii) is T-shaped, wherein the elongated section forms the trunk of the T-shape, and a connecting element (6, 7) is provided at each of the two ends of the arms of the T-shape, and wherein the device (1) additionally comprises a third post segment (8) and a fourth post segment (9), each having an elongated section and intended to be erected horizontally, wherein a connecting element (10, 11) is provided at each end of the elongated section, and the connecting elements (10, 11) serve to be connected to the first post segment (2) so that a substantially U-shaped base is formed which serves as the foot of the device. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by that the stand segments are made of metal, preferably aluminum. [3] Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bysuch that the first stator segment (2) and the second stator segment (4) are or can be arranged substantially at right angles to one another. [4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the stand segments are designed as profiles, preferably as flat profiles. [5] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connecting elements are designed as cross laps, where two parts are notched in such a way that they cross when joined together. [6] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connecting elements (3, 5, 10, 11) are designed as plug-in elements which enable a connection by simple plugging in, so that the stand segments can be connected to one another and separated again without tools. [7] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the fastening option on the container consists of holes through which the stand segment can be screwed to the container, preferably using wing screws that allow for quick fastening. [8] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the container is heatable. [9] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the container is an ultrasound device. [10] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device comprises the container, preferably the ultrasound device. [11] Device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by that the ultrasound device is heatable. [12] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat one or more recesses (12) are provided on the upper edge of the second stand segment (4) which serve to prevent the suspended chain from slipping. [13] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the connecting elements (10, 11) of the cross laps either a) the slots of the connecting elements (10, 11) in the T-shaped first stand segment (2) are designed downwards, so that the connecting elements (10, 11) are inserted into the first stand segment (2) from above or b) the slots of the connecting elements (10, 11) in the T-shaped first stand segment (2) are directed upwards, so that the connecting elements (10, 11) are inserted into the first stand segment (2) from below or c) one slot of the connecting elements (10, 11) in the T-shaped first stator segment (2) is designed upwards and one slot is designed downwards, so that one connecting element (10, 11) is inserted into the first stator segment (2) from below and one of the connecting elements (10, 11) is inserted into the first stator segment (2) from above. [14] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the total height of the first stand segment (2) is in a range of 300 mm to 600 mm, preferably in a range of 400 mm to 550 mm, and particularly preferably in a range of 450 mm to 500 mm, wherein the total height in one embodiment is 470 mm. [15] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the length of the second stator segment (4) is in a range from 100 mm to 400 mm, preferably in a range from 150 mm to 300 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 180 mm to 220 mm, wherein the length in one embodiment is 200 mm. [16] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the length of the third stator segment (8) and fourth stator segment (9) is in a range of 100 mm to 350 mm, preferably in a range of 150 mm to 300 mm, and particularly preferably in a range of 180 mm to 220 mm, wherein the length in one embodiment is 200 mm. [17] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the distances between the recesses (12) of the second stand segment (4) for receiving the chain are in a range of 20 mm to 50 mm, preferably in a range of 25 mm to 40 mm, and particularly preferably in a range of 28 mm to 35 mm, wherein the distance in one embodiment is 30 mm. [18] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the thickness of the material of the stator segment (2) is in a range from 1 mm to 15 mm, preferably in a range from 1.5 mm to 10 mm, and particularly preferably in a range from 2 mm to 8 mm, wherein the thickness in one embodiment is 3 mm. [19] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the third stator segment (8) and the fourth stator segment (9) are each longer than the second stator segment (4). [20] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the device is completely demountable and can be disassembled and reassembled without tools. [21] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the stator segments (2, 4, 8, 9) are made of a material with a corrosion protection layer, preferably an anodized or powder coated, in order to increase the service life. [22] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the container also includes a temperature control to adjust the temperature during the soaking process of the chain. [23] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device additionally comprises a mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain into or out of the container, wherein the mechanism is preferably actuated by a servo motor or a winch. [24] Device according to claim 22, characterized bythat the mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain is arranged on the second stand segment (4) or is part of the second stand segment (4). [25] Device according to claim 23 or 24, characterized by that the mechanism is controlled by a time signal which automatically triggers the lowering or removal of the chain after a predetermined period of time. [26] Device according to one of claims 23 to 25, characterized by that the mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain is controlled by a signal from a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensor is preferably inserted into the container and reacts to a fixed or determinable temperature. [27] Device according to one of claims 23 to 26, characterized bythat the mechanism for lowering and / or removing the chain is controlled by a signal from the ultrasonic device, the ultrasonic device sending the signal when the cleaning or waxing process is completed. [28] Use of the device according to one of the preceding claims for suspending a bicycle chain. [29] Use according to claim 28, characterized by that the bicycle chain is a waxed bicycle chain. [30] Use according to claim 28 or 29, characterized by that the bicycle chain has been waxed in the container and is preferably suspended on the device after waxing until the wax has at least partially hardened, particularly preferably until it has completely hardened.

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