Modular bicycle chain cleaning and lubrication system with interchangeable brush modules and crank-driven cleaning mechanism

Abstract

Device for the continuous cleaning and lubrication of a bicycle chain during riding, comprising at least one replaceable brush module attached to the bicycle frame and a rotating brush module integrated into the crank and driven by the rotational movement of the crank, wherein the rotating brush module is arranged at a defined distance from the chainring so that the brush is in contact with the chain during crank rotation, and wherein the brush modules are designed to be removable by means of a screw connection, quick-release fastener, clamping bracket or magnetic holder.

Description

1. Purpose of the invention

[0001] The invention serves for the continuous cleaning and lubrication of the bicycle chain during riding in order to reduce wear, increase efficiency and extend maintenance intervals. 2. Technical problem

[0002] Bicycle chains become dirty during use due to dust, sand, water, and metal shavings. Conventional cleaning systems are manual, time-consuming, and cannot be used while riding. No system exists that simultaneously cleans, lubricates, and automatically adjusts to the chain's movement. 3. Technical field

[0003] The invention belongs to the field of bicycle technology, in particular to chain drives, cleaning mechanisms, lubrication modules, and modular add-on parts for bicycles. The brush modules are designed for optional use and are accessory-like in nature. They are not permanently mounted on the bicycle. The modules can be used as optional accessories and attached or removed depending on the operating conditions. Particularly when riding in heavily soiled conditions—such as rain, mud, dust, or off-road use—the brush modules can be temporarily mounted to ensure continuous chain cleaning. In dry or clean riding conditions, the user can remove the modules, thereby reducing the bicycle's weight and minimizing brush wear.This flexibility increases the everyday usability of the invention and expands the range of applications to different types of bicycles and usage scenarios. 4. Object of the invention

[0004] Providing a system that automatically cleans and lubricates the bicycle chain while riding, without additional power sources, with interchangeable brush modules and an optional crank-driven cleaning mechanism. 5. Solution to the task The task is accomplished by a system of several brush modules attached to the bicycle frame, as well as a rotating brush module driven by the movement of the crank. The brushes are replaceable and made of steel or brass bristles. An integrated lubrication channel can apply oil directly to the brushes or the chain. Optional installation of a removable crank brush • The invention further comprises an embodiment in which a cleaning brush is integrated into the crank (crank system), wherein the brush is designed as an interchangeable module. The module can be inserted into the crank by means of a screw connection, quick-release fastener, or magnetic holder and removed without disassembling the crank itself. This embodiment allows the brush to be used only when needed and simplifies the replacement of worn brush heads. 6. Solution approach of the invention • Two front brush modules clean the chain immediately after it leaves the front chainring. • A rear brush module cleans the chain and cassette in the area of ​​the rear wheel. • A crank-driven brush module rotates synchronously with the crank and performs fine cleaning and lubrication. • All brush modules are replaceable and attached to the frame using screw or quick-release mechanisms. 7. Components 7.1 Mechanical Module • Brush modules (steel or brass) • Brackets for frame mounting • Screw or quick-release system • Crank module with rotating brush • Optional: Bevel gear unit for torque transmission • Lubrication channel or oil reservoir 7.2 Electrical module (if present)

[0005] The basic version requires no electronics. An electronic drip controller or sensor for lubricant dosing can be integrated as an option. 8. Functionality and advantages • Automatic cleaning while driving • Uniform lubrication through crank-driven module • Reduced chain and sprocket wear • Improved drive efficiency • Minimal maintenance • Replaceable brush modules as cost-effective consumables • Works in all weather conditions 9. Compatibility with standard products • Compatible with all bicycle frames (MTB, Trekking, City, Gravel) • Compatible with 1×, 2× and 3× drives • No change to the catenary line required • Brush modules fit round and oval frame tubes 10. Summary of the advantages • Cleaning + lubrication in one system • No external energy source • Modular, interchangeable, durable • Easy assembly • Significantly longer chain lifespan • Lower maintenance costs 11. State of the art and comparison

[0006] Existing systems include: • manual chain cleaners • closed cleaning boxes • Spray lubricants • Automatic oilers without cleaning

[0007] None of these systems offers: • Simultaneous cleaning and lubrication • Crank-driven rotating brush • Multiple static brush modules on the frame • Replaceable brushes as consumables 12. Comparison to the state of the art / today

[0008] The invention combines for the first time: • mechanical energy of the crank • modular brushes • continuous cleaning • Integrated lubrication • Frame mounting without interfering with the drive 13. Degree of innovation • Novel combination of static and rotating brushes • Use of crank rotation as drive • Replaceable brush modules • Multi-zone cleaning system • No comparable solution on the market or in patent literature 14. Ergonomic and sustainable features • Maintenance possible without tools • Brush modules made from recyclable materials • Reduced lubricant consumption • Extended service life of the chain and gears • More environmentally friendly due to less metal abrasion Image descriptions: Image description - Fig. Fig. The image shows the rotating brush modules integrated into the crank arm for cleaning the bicycle chain while riding. The brush is built directly into the crank and rotates synchronously with the pedal movement. Image description - Fig. Fig. Figure 1 shows the bicycle frame (1) and the front drive area with the chainring (2), the pedal lever (3), the pedal (4), the bicycle chain (6) and the rear drive sprocket (7). The position shown (5) indicates the mounting surface for the brush module, which cleans the front drive sprocket during pedal movement. Image description - Fig. Fig. The diagram shows two brush modules positioned at the front of the frame and two further brush modules at the rear of the frame, one facing upwards and one downwards. All brush modules are designed to clean the bicycle chain. Image description - Fig. Fig. shows a brush module that is firmly screwed to the front chainring and directly attached to the drive. Image description - Fig. Fig. shows a brush module integrated into the pedal lever with an oil reservoir attached to it for continuous lubrication of the chain. Image description - Fig. Fig. shows a brush module attached directly to the rear drive, which provides cleaning during the chain movement. Image description - Fig. Fig.shows the front drive area with a brush module integrated into the pedal lever, which is used to clean the front drive gear during pedal movement. Reference symbol list Figure 2 1 bicycle frame 2 Front drive gear (chainring) 3 pedal levers / crank arm 4 pedals 5 Brush module (cleaning brush) 6 bicycle chain 7 Rear drive gear (pinion / pinion set) Reference symbol list - Figure 3 1 Front frame area (mounting position for brush module) 2 Front frame area at the chainring (mounting position for brush module for cleaning the front drive sprocket) 3 Rear frame area (mounting position for brush module facing downwards) 4 Rear frame area (mounting position for brush module facing upwards)

Claims

Device for the continuous cleaning and lubrication of a bicycle chain during riding, comprising at least one replaceable brush module attached to the bicycle frame and a rotating brush module integrated into the crank and driven by the rotational movement of the crank, wherein the rotating brush module is arranged at a defined distance from the chainring so that the brush is in contact with the chain during crank rotation, and wherein the brush modules are designed to be removable by means of a screw connection, quick-release fastener, clamping bracket or magnetic holder. Device according to claim 1, wherein the defined distance has a radial clearance of 0.5-1.0 mm to the chain and the mounting axis of the brush module has an M4 or M5 threaded receptacle. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that two front brush modules are arranged on the lower frame tube (chainstay) to clean the chain immediately after it leaves the chainring. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a rear brush module is arranged in the area of ​​the rear wheel to clean the chain and the teeth of the cassette during riding. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating brush module is connected to the crank via a bevel gear drive, another gear drive or a direct friction clutch. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotating brush module integrated into the crank is designed as an interchangeable module and can be removed without disassembling the crank by means of a screw connection, quick-release fastener or magnetic holder. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one rotating brush module has an integrated lubrication channel, wick or oil reservoir which delivers lubricant directly to the brush or chain. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush bristles consist of steel, brass, hardened plastics, polymer fibers, composite materials or other materials suitable for cleaning purposes. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush modules are arranged such that they clean the chain tangentially or radially, depending on the position on the frame or on the crank. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one brush module is radially aligned and at least one further brush module is tangentially aligned to the chain. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush modules are arranged at different angles to the chain direction in order to clean both the side surfaces and the rollers of the chain. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning of the chain takes place in several zones, each zone being covered by a separate brush module. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one brush module is arranged such that it cleans the tooth flanks of the cassette or the pinion. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one brush module is positioned such that it cleans the teeth of the chainring during riding. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one brush module is spring-mounted and automatically adapts to the position of the chain. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush heads are interchangeable independently of the holder. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning takes place both during forward and reverse movement of the chain. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush modules are provided with an overload protection device which gives way in case of excessive pressure. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush modules are designed as optional accessories and can be mounted or dismounted depending on the driving conditions. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system is designed as a modular cleaning kit which is compatible with different types of bicycles and can accommodate different brush hardnesses or shapes, and that the device is operated without an external energy source and uses exclusively the mechanical movement of the crank and chain. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the bevel gear drive has a transmission ratio (crank : rotating brush module) in the range of 1 : 2 to 1 : 4, preferably about 1 : 3, such that the rotating brush module rotates at 2 to 4 times the speed of the crank.

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