Bicycle component and bicycle comprising a bicycle part

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, wherein at least part of at least one side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales which are configured to optimize the aerodynamic characteristics of the bicycle component and thus of the bicycle as such.

Description

[0001] Bicycle component and bicycle comprising a bicycle part

[0002] The invention relates to a bicycle component, in particular a bicycle wheel component. The invention further relates to a bicycle comprising at least one of such bicycle component.

[0003] In product design of bicycles, focus is often directed to improvement of the performance of the user. A key design parameter in product design is for example the weight of the bicycle. Another important design parameter is the shape of the frame which could provide for a better stability or the position of the steering wheel aiming for an optimal position of the user on the bike. It is also possible to improve cycle’s design by changing the aerodynamic properties. In both amateur and professional cycling sports improving aerodynamics of a cycle is of particular interest to the user. Improved aerodynamics leads to faster rides and / or the possibility to make longer rides with similar physical efforts. An example thereof is the use of discs for wheels during time trials. Also the position of the user on the cycle can have a big impact on the aerodynamic characteristics during a time trial. There remains a need for cycle design to further improve the aerodynamic properties of a bicycle or a component thereof.

[0004] It is an object of the invention to provide at least a (bi)cycle component with improved aerodynamic properties.

[0005] The invention provides thereto a bicycle component comprising at least one side wall, preferably at least two side walls, wherein at least part of at least one side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern or scaly pattern. At least one scale pattern in particular comprises multiple arrays of scales.

[0006] The bicycle component comprising at least one side wall, preferably at least two side walls, wherein at least part of at least one side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising a scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales has several benefits over the prior art. Providing at least one side wall with at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales results in that the bicycle component, and thus the bicycle as such, experiences improved aerodynamic properties during use. The surface texture comprising a scale pattern results in that the side wall comprises a relatively low friction coefficient, which in practice results to a lower drag. The surface texture is preferably positioned such that said surface texture comes into direct contact with air, and in particular an air flow during use. The scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales results in that velocity differences, or velocity streaks, occur in the air flow around or over at least part of the side wall of the bicycle component. A velocity streak can be defined as the visualisation of the location history of a group of particles identified by a significantly divergent velocity relative to the flow average. The scaly surface texture in particular results in an air flow around or over said scaly surface texture. The air flow may comprise a laminar and a turbulent flow pattern. The arrays of scales will contribute to a minimum of disturbance of the air by motion through it.. Due to the scales being adjacently positioned in multiple arrays, air will be disturbed and will follow at least partly a zigzag pattern across two adjacent arrays of scales. Along the side wall of the bicycle component multiple zigzag patterns occur during use. The zigzag pattern comprises alternating clockwise and counterclockwise vertices. Air vertices occur along the surface of the bicycle component when the bicycle component according to the present invention is in use. The vertices generated are not random, but induced in such a way specifically to create velocity streaks. The alternate succession of clockwise and counterclockwise vertices create the zigzag flow pattern. Following from mass conservation, this increases the velocity, and thus creating velocity streaks. The velocity streaks diminish / delay the TS-waves, and thus maintaining a laminar boundary layer for longer. The skin friction coefficient of a laminar boundary layer is lower than a turbulent one, thus creating less drag. The scale pattern applied according to the present invention in particular results in that the Tollmien- Schlichting wave is decreased and / or at least postponed. This decreases aerodynamic drag compared to a smooth surface where typically Tollmien- Schlichting waves are formed. A bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component according to the present invention could therefore experience improved aerodynamic characteristics which for example results in less energy being required to drive the bicycle and thus in an improved efficiency.

[0007] When it is referred to a bicycle component, also a cycle part and / or a bicycle part could be meant. The bicycle component according to the present invention is not limited to use for bicycles, it is also imaginable that the component according to the present invention is applied in a monocycle, tricycle, motorcycle and / or the like. The bicycle component is in a preferred embodiment a bicycle wheel component or a bicycle wheel. When referred to a bicycle wheel component, also a wheel part or a (bi)cycle wheel part could be meant.

[0008] A bicycle wheel component is typically configured to rotate during use. At least one side wall and preferably at least two side walls of a bicycle wheel component comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern. At least one scale pattern in particular comprising multiple arrays of scales applied on a rotatable bicycle component, such as a bicycle wheel component or a bicycle wheel as such, can achieve an aerodynamic drag reduction. Rotation of the bicycle wheel component influences the direction of the air over the (textures) surface which results in a difficulty in optimization. During rotation of the bicycle wheel component, the direction of the air over the (textured) surface relative to the wheel rotates a whole 360 degrees. At the outer areas of the bicycle wheel, the air flow will typically experience the highest velocities, which is thus also the area where the highest drag reduction can be achieved. It was experimentally found that an aerodynamic drag reduction of at least 5% to 10%, and possible up to 25% could be achieved when applying a bicycle wheel component comprising a surface texture comprising a scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales. Wind tunnel tests showed that the use of a scale pattern at at least parts of a bicycle component, which could be either dynamic or static during use, could significantly improve the aerodynamics of the bicycle. The scales of the scale pattern are in particular oriented such that the scales extend at least partially in a direction opposite to the direction of motion of the bicycle component and / or the bicycle comprising the bicycle component.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component and in particular the bicycle wheel component comprises a rim or is formed by a rim. It is also imaginable that the bicycle component and in particular the bicycle wheel component comprises or is formed by a spoke and / or a disc. It is for example also possible that at least part of at least one side wall of the bicycle component, and in particular the bicycle wheel component, which comprises a surface texture according to the present invention forms part of a rim, spoke and / or disc. It is imaginable that a rim, spoke or multiple spokes, and / or disc of a bicycle wheel component according to the present invention is provided with a surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern which comprises multiple arrays of scales. The bicycle wheel component according to the invention can for example comprise at least one side wall which comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales which side wall forms part of at least one rim, spoke and / or disc. It is for example imaginable that at least one rim, spoke, disc or rim comprises a continuous and / or endless scale pattern. The rim may comprise at least one side wall, preferably at least two side walls. At least part of at least one side wall, and preferably each side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern or scaly pattern. It is possible that at least one side wall, and preferably each side wall of at least one rim, spoke and / or disc is substantially fully covered with a surface texture comprising a scale pattern. It is also imaginable that that at least one rim, spoke, disc or rim comprises multiple areas provided with a scale pattern. The scale pattern could for example be a discontinuous scale pattern. At least one bicycle wheel component can also be formed by a closed wheel. At least part of at least one side surface of the closed wheel could comprise a scaly surface texture according to the present invention. This could further optimize the aerodynamic properties and would for example be interesting for time trial purposes.

[0010] Alternatively, it is possible that at least one bicycle component is formed by part of a bicycle frame or a bicycle frame as such. The use of frame comprising at least one surface texture comprising a scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales results in that the (static) bicycle frame benefits of an aerodynamic configuration. Therefore, the bicycle as such, experiences improved aerodynamic properties during use. It is for example imaginable that the outer surface of the seat tube, top tube, head tube, down tube, handle bar and / or at least one fork comprises a surface texture according to the present invention. Alternatively, at least one bicycle component according to the present invention could be formed by a helmet, for example an aero helmet.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component comprises at least two opposing side walls, wherein each side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern which comprises multiple arrays of scales. Such embodiment can positively contribute to the stability of the bicycle component, and thus the bicycle as such, such during use. The use of at least two opposing side walls, wherein each side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern which comprises multiple arrays of scales could in particular improve the steering moment and / or result in a side force reduction, which improves bicycle handling. The bicycle component preferably has a substantially symmetric character, for example mirror symmetric. It is for example imaginable that a first side wall is substantially inverted with respect to an opposing second side wall.

[0012] Possibly, at least one side wall, and preferably at least two side walls, of at least one bicycle component is substantially curved. The at least one substantially curved side wall and preferably at least two at substantially or at least partially curved side walls can positively contribute to the aerodynamic characteristics of the bicycle component. In such embodiment, it is imaginable that the dimensions of the scales are determined based on the positioning thereof. It is for example imaginable that at least part of the scales of at least one first array which extends over a first curved arc segment are larger than at least part of the scales of at least one further array which extends of a further arc segment which has a smaller curvature than said first arc segment. It is also imaginable that at least one first array which extends over a first curved arc segment comprises less scales than at least one further array which extends of a further arc segment which has a smaller curvature than said first arc segment, or vice versa. It is also imaginable that each array of scales comprises the same number of scales. It is for example also possible that at least one side wall, and preferably at least two side walls, is / are substantially is substantially circular, oval and / or rounded. It is possible that the dimensions of the scales are determined based on the degree of curvature of the array of scales. When it is referred to the dimension of a scale, for example the thickness, orientation and / or shape can be meant.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, at least part of adjacent scales are integrally connected to each other. More preferably, substantially all scales of the surface texture of at least one side wall are integrally connected. In this way, a relatively stable and / or solid configuration of the surface texture can be obtained. This will positively contribute to the laminar and tubular air flow distribution over the surface texture during use. Further, at least part of adjacent scales being integrally connected will be beneficial from manufacturing point of view and may positively contribute to the durability of the bicycle component. It is for example possible that at least one side wall, and preferably at least two or each side wall of the bicycle component comprises a scale pattern wherein all scales are integrally connected to adjacent scales.

[0014] At least one side of a bicycle component according to the present invention can comprise multiple surface textures wherein each surface texture comprises a scale pattern and wherein at least a first surface texture is positioned at a distance from a further surface texture. It is possible that a first surface texture comprises either the same or a different scale pattern than a further surface texture. Possibly, at least one side wall, and preferably at least two or each side wall, comprises at least one continuous surface texture. It is for example imaginable that at least one surface texture of at least one side wall comprises at least one scale pattern comprising multiple endless arrays of scales. It is for example imaginable that multiple endless and circular arrays of scales form the scale pattern.

[0015] Preferably, at least part of the bicycle component is dimensionally stable. It is also possible that at least part of the bicycle component is made of a substantially rigid material. It is in particular beneficial if at least the surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern is dimensionally stable and / or made of a substantially rigid material. A dimensionally stable and / or substantially rigid surface texture may also positively contribute to the laminar and tubular air flow distribution over the surface texture during use.

[0016] It is for example imaginable that at least part of at least one bicycle component is made of at least one metal and / or at least one polymer. It is for example imaginable that at least part of at least one bicycle component is at least partially made of a polymer material. It would in particular be beneficial to apply a reinforced polymer, for example but not limited to a fibre-reinforced polymer. Such polymer can for example be reinforced with fiberglass. Optionally, the bicycle component can also be at least partially made of a carbon. It is for example also possible that the bicycle component is at least partially made of an alloy, in particular an alloy comprising aluminium, magnesium, and / or scandium. In a preferred embodiment, at least part of the scales, and preferably all scales forming at least one scale pattern have substantially the same shape. This could positively contribute to the air flow control. Alternatively, it is for example also imaginable 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 repeated pattern. Preferably, at least part of the scales of at least two adjacent arrays of scales are positioned off set with respect to each other. At least part of the scales of at least one scale pattern preferably define a zigzag pattern. The use of adjacent arrays of scales which are positioned off set with respect to each other and / or in a zigzag pattern positively contributes to the formation of a laminar air flow over the scales and the prevention of Tollmien-Schlichting waves during use of the bicycle component. The scales defining the scale pattern are preferably uniformly distributed along the pattern.

[0017] At least part of the scales, and preferably multiple scales defines at least partially a circular and / or oval shape. For example at least a proximal end of the scales could define at least partially a circular and / or oval shape. At least one scale, and preferably each scale could for example define a crown, a neck and / or a base. At least part of the crown of at least one scale, and preferably of each scale, could be at least partially circular, oval, rhomboid and / or rounded. The crown, neck and / or base of a first scale can be integrally connected to an adjacent scale of the same array of scales. It is also imaginable that the crown of a first scale is integrally connected to a crown of an adjacent further scale of a further array of scales.

[0018] The scales of at least one array, and preferably of each array, may have substantially the same dimension. This can positively contribute to a consistent flow pattern during use of the bicycle component. It is possible that at least part of the scales of a first array have a different dimension than at least part of the scales of at least one further array. The dimensions of the scales in the scale pattern may vary depending on the relative position upon the bicycle component.

[0019] It is possible that at least one array of scales, in particular each array of scales, is shaped in a circle. This is in particular useful in case the bicycle component is a bicycle wheel component. The arrays of scales can for example extends over the circumference of the bicycle wheel component. It is further possible that the arrays of scales are concentrically positioned such that the scales in an array positioned on an outer circle are larger than the scales in an array positioned on an inner circle. At the outer areas, or outer circumference, of the bicycle wheel component, the air flow will typically experience higher velocities than at an in inner area or inner circumference. Adapting the dimensions of the scales to the expected velocities of the air flow can positively contribute to the overall stability and efficiency of the bicycle component during use. The use of relatively large scales in the outer circle can for example positively contribute to the drag reduction.

[0020] It is also imaginable that a first cross-section of at least one array of scales defines a first height profile comprising alternating heights and a second cross section of said array of scales defines a second height profile comprising alternating heights, wherein the first height profile differs from the second height profile. The use of such embodiment can positively contribute to the formation of laminar and / or turbulent air flow at the desired positions. It is for example possible that the height difference in the alternating height of the first pattern is different from the height difference in the second pattern. The second pattern can for example have more alternations over same length span. The surface texture according to the present invention can be configured such that at least two parallel velocity path lines appear upon movement of the bicycle component.

[0021] Preferably at least one array of scales, and preferably each array of scales comprises at least partly overlapping scales. It is also imaginable that scales of adjacent arrays of scales at least partially overlap with each other. The scale pattern preferably has a high scale density. This could positively contribute to the aerodynamic effect of the scale pattern.

[0022] The scales in at least one array of scales, or in the scale pattern as such, may have a uniform thickness. However, it is also imaginable that the scales in at least one array of scales, or in the scale pattern as such, have a non-uniform thickness. It is for example imaginable that the thickness gradually increases over the length of at least one scale, and preferably each scale. It is also possible that at least part of the scales is partially inclined. The scales of at least one array of scales are preferably oriented in the same direction. In case the array of scales is an endless array, it is imaginable that the scales are oriented in a circular configuration. In a possible embodiment, the radius of at least part of the scales, and preferably of all of the scales, is in the range of 1 to 20 mm, preferably in the range of 4 mm to 18 mm, more preferably in the range of 5 mm to 15mm, even more preferably in the range of 9 mm to 12 mm. It was experimentally found that the use of scales with such dimension are in particular suitable for use in bicycle components. As indicated above, the size of the scales preferably varies per array of scales. The visible length of at least part of the scales, and preferably of all the scales, is for example in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, in particular 6 mm to 15 mm, more in particular 8 mm to 12 mm, even more in particular in the range of 9 mm to 11 mm. The visible length can for example be defined by the maximum length of at least one scale in the direction wherein the array extends. It is also possible that the maximum extending height of at least part of the scales, and preferably of all scales, can be in the range of 0.1- 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm, and even more in particular in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm. The extending height of a scale can be defined as the height between a scale and the distal end of an overlapping adjacent scale. Possibly, the distance between the centre line of a least two adjacent scales of the same array of scales is in the range of 2-40 mm. It is conceivable that in an embodiment the distance between the centre line of at least two adjacent scales of the same array of scales is in the range of 15 mm to 30 mm or in the range of 20 to 25 mm. It is for example also possible that the distance between the centre lines of at least two adjacent scales of two adjacent arrays of scales is in the range of 10 mm to 30 mm, for example 15 mm to 20 mm.

[0023] When it is referred to a scale pattern or scaly pattern, also a feather pattern, snake pattern and / or leave pattern could be meant. 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 part of the scales, and preferably multiple scales, have an organic shape. Any conventional scale shapes like could be applied. At least part of the scales could for example have a ctenoid, placoid, rhomboid cosmoid and / or cycloid shape.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component, in particular the bicycle wheel component, is made of a single piece. This can positively contribute to the ease of manufacturing and / or the durability of the component. It can also positively contribute to the aerodynamic characteristics of the bicycle component. At least part of at least one bicycle component can for example be made via 3D printing. It is also possible that for example at least the surface texture comprising a scale pattern and / or at least one side wall is made via 3D printing. In a further beneficial embodiment, the entire bicycle component can be made via 3D printing. 3D printing benefits of the need of less material, which is beneficial from environmental point of view. Also the degree of detail which can be achieved is typically relatively high for 3D printing, which is beneficial for the production of the scale pattern. 3D printing provides the freedom of using different materials, depending on the desired properties of the final product. The use of a 3D printing technique can also be beneficial from economical point of view, as it is typically cheaper than manufacturing by casting. Additionally, alloys, and in particular aluminium alloys, have a much lower specific strength when produced via a casting process. When comparing to 3D printing, in order to achieve the same strength with an aluminium based casting alloy, the bicycle component would become at least twice as heavy.

[0025] The invention also relates to a bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component according to the present invention. The bicycle according to the present invention will benefit of improved aerodynamic characteristics which for example results in less energy being required to drive the bicycle and thus in an improved efficiency. Alternatively, the invention relates to a monocycle, tricycle, motorcycle and / or the like comprising at least one bicycle component according to the present invention.

[0026] The invention will be further elucidated by the following non-limitative clauses.

[0027] 1 . Bicycle component, in particular a bicycle wheel component, comprising:

[0028] - at least one side wall, preferably at least two side walls; wherein at least part of at least one side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales.

[0029] 2. Bicycle component according to clause 1 , comprising at least two opposing side walls, wherein each side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales. 3. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of adjacent scales are integrally connected to each other.

[0030] 4. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the surface texture comprises at least one scale pattern comprising multiple endless arrays of scales.

[0031] 5. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of the bicycle component is dimensionally stable and / or wherein at least part of the bicycle component is made of a substantially rigid material.

[0032] 6. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of the scales, and preferably all scales forming the scale pattern have substantially the same shape.

[0033] 7. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of the scales of at least two adjacent arrays of scales are positioned off set with respect to each other.

[0034] 8. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of the scales of a first array have a different dimension than at least part of the scales of at least one further array.

[0035] 9. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one array of scales, in particular each array of scales, is shaped in a circle and wherein the arrays are concentrically positioned such that the scales in an array positioned on an outer circle are larger than the scales in an array positioned on an inner circle.

[0036] 10. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein a first cross-section of at least one array of scales defines a first height profile comprising alternating heights and a second cross section of said array of scales defines a second height profile comprising alternating heights, wherein the first height profile differs from the second height profile. 11 . Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the surface texture is configured such that at least two parallel velocity path lines appear upon movement of the bicycle component.

[0037] 12. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one array of scales comprises at least partly overlapping scales.

[0038] 13. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the scales in at least one array of scales have a non-uniform thickness, in particular wherein the thickness gradually increases over the length of each scale.

[0039] 14. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the radius of at least part of the scales is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, in particular in the range of 9-12 mm.

[0040] 15. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the visible length of at least part of the scales is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, in particular 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0041] 16. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the maximum extending height of at least part of the scales is in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, in particular in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0042] 17. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the distance between the centre line of a least two adjacent scales of the same array of scales is in the range of 2 mm to 40mm, preferably in the range of 20mm -40 mm.

[0043] 18. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one scale pattern is a fish scale pattern.

[0044] 19. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the bicycle component is made of a single piece. 20. Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of the bicycle component is manufactured via 3D printing.

[0045] 21 . Bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the bicycle component is a bicycle wheel component, and wherein at least one side wall which comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales forms part of at least one rim, spoke and / or disc.

[0046] 22. Bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component according to any of the previous clauses.

[0047] The invention will be further elucidated by means of non-limiting exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following figures. Wherein:

[0048] - Figure 1 shows a side view of an embodiment of a bicycle component according to the present invention;

[0049] - Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a detailed view of a bicycle component according to figure 1 ;

[0050] - Figure 3a shows a schematic top view of an embodiment of part of a scale pattern comprising scale arrays and the schematic airstream;

[0051] - Figure 3b shows a schematic cross-section of an embodiment of an array of scales and a schematic flow of air;

[0052] - Figure 4 shows a schematic view of height differences along different crosssections of an embodiment of a scale pattern according to the present invention;

[0053] - Figure 5a-d show schematic views of scales, showing dimensions for scales used in a scale pattern as can be used in the present invention;

[0054] - Figure 6a and 6b show yet another possible example of bicycle component according to the present invention; and

[0055] - Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a bicycle comprising a wheel with an embodiment of a rim according to the present invention; and

[0056] - Figure 8 shows a frame according to the present invention.

[0057] Within these figures, similar reference numbers correspond to similar or equivalent elements or features. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a side view of a possible embodiment of a bicycle component 1 according to the present invention. In the shown embodiment, the bicycle component 1 is a bicycle wheel component 1 and more in particular a (bicycle) rim 1 a. The rim 1 a can be used for professional and / or amateur bicycles or cycling bikes. In the figure only the rim 1 a is shown, the rim 1a according to the invention can be used in combination with various types of spokes and / or tires. The rim 1a comprises two partially curved side walls 2 of which one 2 is shown in this side view. The other side wall 3 is positioned opposite from the shown side wall 2. The side walls 2, 3 are (integrally) connected to one another. In the shown embodiment the side walls 2, 3 are coupled to one another at the inner circumference 11 of the rim 1a. The side walls 2, 3 are each provided with a surface texture that comprises a scale pattern 5 comprising six endless arrays of scales 51 , 52, 53, 54, 55, 56. The endless arrays of scales 51 , 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 comprise a circular shape. The inner array 51 comprises smaller scales than the arrays of scales that are positioned on a larger circumference 52, 53, 54, 55, 56. The outer array of scales 56 comprises the largest scales in this embodiment. The scales of each array 51 , 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 are oriented in a circular configuration. The dimension, shapes and / or sizes 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 scales of the scale pattern are partly overlapping, hence generating a surface texture. A schematic cross section of such a surface texture is shown in figure 4.

[0058] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a detailed view the rim 1a as shown in figure 1 . In this view it is visible that the side walls 2, 3, are connected at the inner circumference 11 of the rim 1a. The side walls 2, 3 are provided with a surface texture comprising a scale pattern 4 comprising arrays of scales. In this perspective view it is also visible that the surface texture is a 3D texture in the shown embodiment. The scales 511 are partly overlapping each other and are integrally connected. The scales as shown are at least partially round.

[0059] Figure 3a and figure 3b shows a schematic detail of a side view of a further possible scale pattern on a bicycle component 10 according to the present invention. In figure 3a a side view of part of an embodiment of a rim 10a according to the present invention is shown. The side wall 21 shown comprises a surface texture comprising a scale pattern comprising arrays of scales 30. The figure shows schematically the airflow along zigzaglines 31 and along the centerlines 32 defined by the arrays of scales 30. Experiments have shown that velocity in the region around the centerlines 32 is lower than the velocity in the region around the zigzaglines. The zigzaglines 31 cause velocity streaks. The scales 30 create parallel streamwise velocity streaks 31 , 32 which decrease or postpone the Tollmien-Schlichting wave and herewith decreasing the aerodynamic drag. Figure 3b shows a schematic perspective view of the scales 30 during use, wherein the behaviour arrows. The vertices generated are not random, but induced in such a way specifically to create velocity streaks. The alternate succession of clockwise vertices 35 and counterclockwise vertices 36 create the zigzag flow pattern 31 as shown in figure 3a. Following from mass conservation, this increases the velocity, and thus creating velocity streaks.

[0060] Figure 4 shows a schematic view of height differences along different crosssections of a scale pattern applied in a bicycle component according to the present invention. The figure shows a schematic top view of a scale pattern 44 comprising arrays 45 of scales 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d. Array 45a is positioned next to and partly overlapping with array 45b. Array 45b is positioned next to and partly overlapping with array 45c and 45a. Array 45c is positioned next to and partly overlapping with array 45b and 45d. Array 45d (as shown) is positioned next to and partly overlapping with array 45c. The first adjacent scales 40a together form a first array 45a, the second adjacent scales 40b together form a second array 45b, the third adjacent scales 40c together form a third array 45c and the fourth adjacent scales 40d together form a fourth array 45d. The scales of adjacent arrays 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d are at least partly overlapping one another. In the figure a first height profile A- A of the cross-section along line A is shown below the scale pattern. The figure also shows a second height profile B-B of the cross-section along line B. As can be seen from the figure, the first height profile A-A differs from the second height profile B-B. In this example, the maximum height of profile B-B is half the height of profile A-A. The frequency of the peaks within the height profile is different, in particular double.

[0061] Figure 5a-d show a schematic views of scales 50, showing dimensions for scales used in a scale pattern as used in the present invention. The scales 50 shown comprise a first portion 501 comprising a rectangular shape and a second portion 502 adjacent to the first portion, wherein the second portion comprises a front edge 502a. The front edge 502a is at least partly circular and / or oval shaped. The front edge 502a of the second portion 502 of the scale 50 may be defined by the radius R as shown in figure 5a.

[0062] Figure 5b shows a schematic cross-section along the center line 51 of a scale 50. Figure 5b shows that the scales 50 shown comprise an inclined top surface 503, wherein the height H at the front edge 502a is larger than the height at the opposite end 501 a of the scale 50. The shown maximum height H may for example vary between 0.2-0.6 mm.

[0063] Figure 5c shows two scales 50 spaced apart from one another. The mutual distance of the scales 50 is defined by the distance between the two center lines 51 and indicated as the width W. Depending on the pattern of scales and sizes of the scales within an array, the width W may be consistent and / or increasing or decreasing within the pattern. The scales 50 shown have similar shapes and similar dimensions. In another embodiment, the scales may have a similar shape but different dimensions. In such an embodiment the width W can still be defined by the distance between two center lines 51 . Shown width W may for example vary within the range of 20-30 mm.

[0064] Figure 5d shows a schematic view of a top view four similar scales 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d. The scales 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d comprise the same size and dimension and are overlapping each other. Scale 50a is overlapped by the other scales 50b, 50c, and 50d. The visible part of scale 50a can be defined by the distance L along the center line 51 of the scale 50a that is visible from a top view. Shown distance L may for example vary within the range of 6-15 mm.

[0065] The dimensions and shapes as shown in figures 5a-5d can be used in any embodiment of the bicycle component according to the present invention. In case circular endless arrays of scales are used, the dimensions will be similar within one array and be different in between arrays. Figure 6a and 6b show yet another possible example of bicycle component 60a, 60b, in particular bicycle wheel components 60a, 60b according to the present invention. The bicycle wheel component of figure 6a shows that the side wall which comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern 61 comprising multiple arrays of scales which side wall forms part the spokes 62. The side walls of the spokes 62 are substantially fully covered with a surface texture comprising a scale pattern. Figure 6b shows that the scaled surface texture 61 of the side wall of the bicycle wheel component 60b forms part of a disc 63. The scale pattern as shown is continuous scale pattern. The arrays of scales are oriented such as if the arrays would define a circular endless array. The bicycle wheel components 60a, 60b as shown are in particular suitable for use in a time trial bicycle. The side wall of the disc 63 is provided with a surface texture, on the side facing outwards, comprising a scale pattern 61 comprising arrays of scales. The arrays of scales in the shown embodiment are endless arrays of scales arranged in at least partially overlapping concentric circles.

[0066] Figure 7 shows part of a bicycle 70 according to the present invention. The bicycle 70 comprises a fore fork 701 , a frame 702 and a wheel 703. The wheel 703 as shown comprises a rim 7031 according to the present invention and spokes 7032 attached thereto. The rim 7031 is further coupled to a tire 7033. The rim 7031 of the wheel 703 comprises a surface texture 74 comprising a scale pattern 75 comprising arrays of scales. Also, part of the frame 702 and part of the fore fork 701 are provided with a surface texture 74 comprising a scale pattern 75 comprising arrays of scales. The side walls, facing outwards, of the fore fork 701 , the rim 7031 and the frame 702 are provided with said surface texture 74. On the rim, the surface texture 74 comprises endless circular arrays of scales. On the fore fork 701 and the frame 702, the arrays of scales are fitted onto the surface of the side walls of the respective parts.

[0067] Figure 8 shows a frame 80 according to the present invention. The figure 8 shows a fore fork 801 integrated into the body part 802 of the frame 80. The frame 80 is provided with a surface texture 84 comprising a scale pattern 85 comprising arrays of scales. The orientation of the arrays of scales is such that velocity streaks are created. The orientation depends on the use of the frame and is in this case dependent and oriented for reducing drag when the bicycle moves forward. In the shown embodiment the orientation of the arrays of scales is such that velocity streaks occur

[0068] It will be clear that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments which are illustrated and described here, but that countless variants are possible within the framework of the attached claims, which will be obvious to the person skilled in the art. In this case, it is conceivable for different inventive concepts and / or technical measures of the above-described variant embodiments to be completely or partly combined without departing from the inventive idea described in the attached claims.

[0069] The verb 'comprise' and its conjugations as used in this patent document are understood to mean not only 'comprise', but to also include the expressions 'contain', 'substantially contain', 'formed by' and conjugations thereof.

Claims

Claims1 . Bicycle wheel component comprising a rim, wherein the rim comprises:- at least two opposing side walls; wherein at least part of at least one side wall comprises at least one dimensionally stable surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales.

2. Bicycle component according to claim 1 , wherein each side wall comprises at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales.

3. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least part of adjacent scales are integrally connected to each other.

4. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the surface texture comprises at least one scale pattern comprising multiple endless arrays of scales.

5. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the rim is made of a substantially rigid material.

6. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least part of the scales, and preferably all scales forming the scale pattern have substantially the same shape.

7. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least part of the scales of at least two adjacent arrays of scales are positioned off set with respect to each other.

8. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least part of the scales of a first array have a different dimension than at least part of the scales of at least one further array.

9. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one array of scales, in particular each array of scales, is shaped in a circle and wherein the arrays are concentrically positioned such that the scales in an array positioned on an outer circle are larger than the scales in an array positioned on an inner circle.

10. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein a first cross-section of at least one array of scales defines a first height profile comprising alternating heights and a second cross section of said array of scales defines a second height profile comprising alternating heights, wherein the first height profile differs from the second height profile.11 . Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the surface texture is configured such that at least two parallel velocity path lines appear upon movement of the rim.

12. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one array of scales comprises at least partly overlapping scales.

13. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the scales in at least one array of scales have a non-uniform thickness, in particular wherein the thickness gradually increases over the length of each scale.

14. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the radius of at least part of the scales is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, in particular in the range of 9-12 mm.

15. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the visible length of at least part of the scales is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, in particular 8 mm to 12 mm.

16. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the maximum extending height of at least part of the scales is in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, in particular in the range of 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

17. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the distance between the centre line of a least two adjacent scales of the same array of scales is in the range of 2 mm to 40mm, preferably in the range of 20mm -40 mm.

18. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one scale pattern is a fish scale pattern.

19. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein the bicycle component is made of a single piece.

20. Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least part of the bicycle component is manufactured via 3D printing.21 . Bicycle component according to any of the previous claims, further comprising at least one spoke and / or disc comprising at least one surface texture comprising at least one scale pattern comprising multiple arrays of scales.

22. Bicycle comprising at least one bicycle component according to any of the previous claims.

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