Systems and devices for gear cassettes

Abstract

A cassette can include a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation. A cassette can include a plurality of gears positioned axially along the cassette, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation. A cassette can include a through-bore extending though the cassette along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive a driveshaft. A cassette can include a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

Description

SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR GEAR CASSETTESCROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Application No. 63 / 664,520, filed on June 26, 2024 and entitled “SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR GEAR CASSETTES,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present application generally relates to systems and devices for gear cassettes, and more specifically, to a bicycle wheel assembly that includes a solid component gear cassette having integral gears and ratchet teeth.BACKGROUND

[0003] Bicycle wheels include a variety of components in order to transmit power from the pedals to the road. On a bicycle, a cassette can be used to alter the current gear ratio of the powered rear wheel. A cassette can include a set of multiple sprockets that attaches to a hub on the rear wheel of a bicycle, and works with a rear derailleur to provide multiple gear ratios to the rider. Traditionally, a cassette is formed from a plurality7of gears positioned on a freehub, and includes a ratchet ring between the freehub body and the cassette. Due to the multiple components, the axial space to place sprockets (i.e. , gears) can be limited due to the small envelope which the whole assembly needs to fit into on the rear wheel of a bicycle. Additionally, a freehub body is traditionally made of aluminum, and a cassette is made of steel. Due to these differing metals, degradation can occur due to the abrading of two different material with varying durability.

[0004] Moreover, the modular nature of traditional cassettes introduces mechanical interfaces between components that can lead to inefficiencies in power transfer. Over time, wear at these interfaces — such as between the sprockets and the freehub splines — can result in backlash, slippage, or deformation, particularly under high torque loads. This degradation not only affects performance but can also necessitate frequent maintenance or replacement of parts.

[0005] The use of dissimilar metals, such as steel sprockets on aluminum freehubs, often leads to gouging or notching of the softer aluminum splines. This wear compromises thestructural integrity of the freehub and can cause poor alignment or engagement of the cassette. Traditional cassettes also require precise alignment and spacing of individual sprockets and spacers, which can complicate assembly and increase the potential for installation errors. These complexities may deter casual riders from performing their own maintenance and can increase service costs.

[0006] Furthermore, the reliance on a separate ratchet mechanism within the freehub body adds to the overall part count and weight of the drivetrain. This configuration can introduce additional points of failure and may limit design flexibility when optimizing for performance, durability, or packaging constraints.SUMMARY

[0007] Systems and devices for gear cassettes are provided.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, including: a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation; a plurality of gears positioned axially along the cassette, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation; a through-bore extending though the cassette along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive a driveshaft; and a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein each of the plurality of gears has a diameter that is different than an adjacent gear.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, further including a channel axially extending into the body.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein the channel is positioned radially outward of the through-bore, and radially inward of at least one gear of the plurality of gears.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques descnbed herein relate to a cassette, wherein the channel extends radially inward towards the through-bore.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, further including a plurality of channels axially extending into the body.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein the plurality7of channels are positioned symmetrically about the body.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein the teeth of the plurality of teeth each extend axially outward from the terminal surface at the first end of the body.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein the plurality of teeth is axially displaced from each gear of the plurality of gears.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein each of the plurality of gears are non-removable from the body.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a cassette, wherein the plurality of teeth is non-removable from the body.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, including: an annular rim; a hub positioned in the center of the rim, the hub including a through-bore and a plurality of teeth arranged within the through-bore; a plurality of spokes extending from the hub to the rim to secure the hub to the rim; a driveshaft extending through the through-bore of the hub; a gear ring positioned on the driveshaft and within the through- bore of the hub, the gear ring including a first set of radially extending teeth and a second set of axially extending teeth; and a cassette, including: a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation; a plurality7of gears positioned axially along the cassette, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation; a through-bore extending though the cassette along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive the driveshaft; and a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein the second set of axially extending teeth are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth of the cassette.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein the gear ring can move axially within the through-bore of the hub to disengage the second set of axially extending teeth from the plurality of teeth of the cassette.

[0022] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein the first set of radially extending teeth are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth arranged within the through-bore of the hub.

[0023] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, further including a channel axially extending into the body.

[0024] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein the channel is positioned radially outward of the through-bore, and radially inward of at least one gear of the plurality of gears.

[0025] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein the channel extends radially inward towards the through-bore.

[0026] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein the teeth of the plurality of teeth of the cassette each extend axially outward from the terminal surface at the first end of the body.

[0027] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a wheel assembly, wherein each of the plurality of gears and the plurality of teeth of the hub are non-removable from the body.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] These and other features will be more readily understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an aspect of a wheel assembly;

[0030] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of an aspect of a cassette of the wheel assembly ofFIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the cassette of FIG. 2;

[0032] FIG. 4 is a side view of the cassette of FIG. 2;

[0033] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the cassette taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 2;

[0034] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a portion of the wheel assembly of FIG 1;

[0035] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the ratchet gear of FIG. 6;

[0036] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the hub of FIG. 6;

[0037] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the wheel assembly taken along line 9-9 in FIG. 1; and

[0038] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an aspect of a cassette.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Certain exemplary aspects will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these aspects are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary aspects and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary aspect may be combined with the features of other aspects. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0040] Various systems and devices for gear cassettes are provided herein. The present invention is a new type of bicycle gear cassette that combines all the gears and internal drive components into one solid, unified piece. In traditional bikes, the gear system is made up of many separate parts — like individual gears, spacers, and a ratchet mechanism — that are stacked together. Over time, these parts can wear out, loosen, or cause power loss when you pedal. This new design eliminates those issues by machining or forming the entire gearsystem as a single structure. That means fewer parts to break, better alignment, and more efficient power transfer from the rider to the wheel. It’s also lighter, more durable, and easier to maintain, making it ideal for both casual riders and high-performance cyclists.

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a wheel assembly 100. The wheel assembly 100 can include a rim 102, spokes 104, a hub 106, a cassette 108, and a driveshaft 110. The hub 106 is positioned within the center of the rim 102. and is held in place by spokes 104. The spokes 104 secure to the rim 102 at an inner circumference, and secure to the hub 106 via threaded ends (not shown). The wheel assembly 100 is illustrated as a bike wheel, but other forms of vehicles (i.e., automobiles, trailers, aircraft) can be used with the wheel assembly 100.

[0042] FIGS. 2-5 illustrate the cassette 108 in isolation. The cassette 108 includes a through- bore 112 configured to receive the driveshaft 110 (as shown in FIG. 5). Positioned about the cassette 108 are gears 116 that are axially arranged along the body of the cassette 108. Each of the gears 116 includes teeth that are configured to engage a chain (not shown) connected to the pedals to deliver power from the rider to the wheel. The gears 116 can decrease in diameter as the gears 116 axially progress along the body of the cassette 110. This w ould allow for multiple gear ratios for a rider to utilize. In contrast to traditional systems that rely on a separate freehub body to support the cassette and ratchet mechanism, the cassette 108 described herein integrates the gear stack and ratchet teeth into a single structural unit. This integration eliminates the need for a separate freehub body, reducing part count, weight, and potential mechanical play betw een components. The cassette 108 may be formed as a single machined or cast block, or alternatively, may be constructed from two or more components that are permanently bonded together via adhesive, welding, or a positive mechanical fastener.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ratchet teeth 120 and the gear body may be formed from different materials to optimize strength, wear resistance, and weight. For example, the ratchet teeth may be machined from aluminum or titanium and then bonded — via fine machine threads, press-fit, welding, or rivets — to a cassette body formed from hardened steel. This hybrid construction allow s for precise tuning of material properties while maintaining structural integrity.

[0044] The number of gears 116 included on the cassette 108 is not limited to any specific count and may vary depending on the application. The cassette may include any number of gears suitable for the desired gear range, spacing, and drivetrain compatibility.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, the cassette 108 includes a plurality of teeth 120 positioned on a terminal face of a first end of the cassette 108. The teeth 120 can extend axially outward from the terminal face, and are configured to engage with a rachet ring, described in greater detail below. The cassette 108 can also include channels 122 arranged about the body of the cassette 108. The channels 122 can extend both axially inward and radially inward (as shown in FIG. 5) from the first end of the cassette 108. The channels 122 are configured to reduce the weight of the cassette 108 without affecting its structural integrity. By reducing the weight of the cassette 108, its mass moment of inertia is reduced, increasing the efficiency of the powder transfer from the rider to the wheels. While the channels 122 are depicted as 4 separate channels, the channel can be a single channel that extends about the whole cassette 108 without interruption. In some embodiments, the axially extending teeth 120 may be formed integrally with the cassette body, or may be separately manufactured and bonded to the cassette using mechanical or metallurgical joining techniques. For example, the teeth 120 may be machined from a lightweight, high-strength material such as titanium or aluminum and then attached to a steel cassette body using fine-pitch threads, rivets, or high-strength adhesives. This approach allows for optimization of wear resistance and weight without compromising structural integrity.

[0046] Additionally, the geometry of the teeth 120 may be matched to the material properties to ensure consistent engagement with the ratchet ring under high torque loads. The teeth may be hardened or surface-treated to improve durability, particularly in embodiments where the cassette and ratchet ring are formed from the same material. In some configurations, the cassette and ratchet teeth may be machined from a single billet or cast as a monolithic component to eliminate any interface between parts.

[0047] In an aspect, the cassette 108 is made from a single piece of material. For example, the cassette 108, gears 116, and teeth 120 are formed from a single piece of milled steel. By forming all the components of the cassette 108 from a single piece of material, a reduction in slippage and lashing from play between the gears and the freehub is eliminated, since the cassette 108, gears 116, and teeth 120 all rotate simultaneously since there is no play between these components. Lashing can increase in traditional freehubs and cassettes as the individualcomponents breakdown from use. In other aspects, the cassette 108 may be constructed from multiple components that are permanently bonded together to form a unified structure. For example, the gear stack and ratchet interface may be manufactured separately — using different materials optimized for their respective functions — and then joined using precision threads, press-fit interference, welding, brazing, or mechanical fasteners such as rivets. This modular approach allows for the use of lightweight or w ear-resistant materials in specific regions of the cassette, such as titanium or aluminum for the ratchet teeth and hardened steel for the gear stack.

[0048] Whether formed as a monolithic block or as a bonded assembly, the integrated cassette design eliminates the need for a separate freehub body, simplifying the drivetrain architecture and improving power transfer efficiency. The absence of mechanical interfaces between the cassette and a separate ratchet or freehub body reduces backlash, w ear, and maintenance requirements over time.

[0049] Arranged between the driveshaft 110 and the cassette 108 are bearings 114 and 118. The bearings 114, 118 are positioned within the through-bore 112 of the cassette 108. The bearings 114, 118 allow the cassette 108 to rotate relative to the driveshaft 110. In an aspect, the bearing arrangement may be optimized to reduce friction and improve rotational efficiency, particularly in high-performance cycling applications. The bearings may be cartridge-style, cup-and-cone, or hybrid ceramic types, depending on the desired balance of weight, durability, and cost.

[0050] Because the cassette 108 integrates both the gear stack and the ratchet interface, the bearing placement becomes especially important for maintaining concentricity and minimizing axial play. The bearing seats may be machined directly into the cassette body to ensure precise alignment and reduce the number of separate components. In an aspect, the outer races of the bearings may be formed integrally with the cassette body, further simplifying the assembly and reducing weight.

[0051] FIGS. 6-8 illustrates components of the wheel assembly 100 in an exploded view along a center axis CA, and the components in isolation. Center axis CA is also the axis of rotation for these components when in use. The cassette 108 is positioned adjacent to the rachet ring 130 and the hub 140. The rachet ring 130 includes a through-bore 132, w hich receives the driveshaft 110, a radially extending set of teeth 134, and an axially extending setof teeth 136. The radially extending teeth 134 engage with the inner teeth 148 of the hub 106. The axially extending teeth 136 engage with the teeth 120 on the cassette. As such, the rachet ring transmits power from the cassette 108 to the hub 106. In an aspect, the rachet ring 130 can be conical or flat, and includes teeth that correspond to the teeth 120 on the cassette 108. In an aspect, the ratchet ring 130 and the cassette 108 may be formed from the same material and manufactured as a single integrated component. This eliminates the need for a separate ratchet ring and further reduces mechanical interfaces that can introduce play or wear. In an aspect, the ratchet ring 130 may be bonded or fastened to the cassette 108 using precision threads, rivets, or other mechanical joining methods. This modular approach allows for the ratchet teeth and cassette body to be made from different materials, such as titanium for the ratchet ring and steel for the cassette to optimize strength, wear resistance, and weight.

[0052] The geometry of the axially and radially extending teeth may be tailored to the material properties and intended torque loads, ensuring reliable engagement and disengagement during pedaling and coasting. In an aspect, the ratchet interface may also be configured with any number of teeth (e.g., 2 to 200 teeth or more) to reduce engagement lag and improve responsiveness, particularly in performance cycling applications.

[0053] FIG. 8 illustrates the hub 106 in isolation. As depicted, the hub 106 includes a center through-bore 142, which is configured to receive the driveshaft 110. Additionally, the hub 106 includes a set of inner teeth 148 positioned within the through-bore 142 in order to transmit power from the cassette 108 to the hub 106. As stated above, the inner teeth 148 engage with the teeth 134 on the rachet ring 130. The inner teeth 148 may be formed integrally with the hub body or may be part of a modular insert that is press-fit or bonded into the through-bore 142. In some embodiments, the hub 106 and the ratchet ring 130 may be designed to engage with a high-resolution tooth profile (e.g., 120 teeth) to provide rapid engagement and minimal lag during pedaling.

[0054] To ensure durability and consistent performance, the material selection for the inner teeth 148 may be matched to that of the ratchet ring 130 and cassette teeth 120. For example, all three components may be formed from hardened steel or titanium to resist wear under repeated high-torque loading. Alternatively, the hub 106 may be made from a lighter material such as aluminum, with the inner teeth 148 formed from a harder insert material to balance weight and strength.

[0055] A plurality of projections 144 is positioned on a first end of the hub 106, and a plurality of projections 146 positioned on a second end of the hub 106. The projections 144, 146 extend about the hub 106 in a radial configuration. The projections 144, 146 can be trapezoidal in shape, but other types of shapes (i.e., rectangular, square) can be used and should be considered within the scope of this disclosure. The projections 144, 146 are configured to receive the nail head end of a spoke 104 to secure the hub 106 to the rim 102. These projections serve as spoke anchor points and are designed to distribute spoke tension evenly around the hub. In an aspect, the projections may be reinforced or shaped to accommodate alternative spoke geometries, such as bladed or elliptical spokes. The geometry and spacing of the projections may also be optimized to support a wide range of spoke lacing patterns, including radial, two-cross, or three-cross configurations.

[0056] Although the hub 106 is show n with a traditional spoke interface, it may also be adapted for use with integrated or modular spoke systems, depending on the application. The material of the projections may be the same as the hub body or may include inserts or coatings to improve wear resistance and reduce the risk of spoke pull-through under high tension.

[0057] Now referring to FIG. 9, the cassette 108 can be seen positioned on the driveshaft 110. The driveshaft 110 can include a lip 152 which prevents axial movement of the cassette 108 in one direction. Once the cassette 108 is positioned on the driveshaft 110, the rachet ring 130 is place in contact with the cassette 108 along teeth 136 and 120. The hub 106 is then placed on the driveshaft 110, and engages with the rachet ring 130 along teeth 134 and 148. The hub 106 is held in place on the driveshaft 110 by a nut 154 that engages a threaded surface of the driveshaft 110. The hub 106, rachet ring 130, and cassette 108 can all rotate relative to the driveshaft 110 when in use. Additionally, the rachet ring 130 can move axially within the hub 106 in order to allow teeth 136 to disengage from teeth 120 when a user is not actively pedaling. A spring (not shown) can be arranged between the hub 106 and the rachet ring 130 in order to ensure passive contact between the teeth 136 and 120. This configuration enables a freewheeling mechanism that allows the rider to coast without back-driving the drivetrain. The axial movement of the ratchet ring 130 provides a reliable disengagement method, and the spring ensures consistent re-engagement when pedaling resumes.

[0058] In an aspect, the cassette 108 and ratchet ring 130 may be manufactured as a single integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate axial engagement components. Thisintegration can reduce complexity, improve reliability, and eliminate potential wear points between the cassette and ratchet ring. Alternatively, the ratchet ring may be permanently bonded to the cassette using mechanical or metallurgical joining techniques, such as threading, welding, or riveting.

[0059] The lip 152 and nut 154 may also be optimized for tool-free installation or quickrelease mechanisms, depending on the intended use case. The overall assembly is designed to minimize axial play and ensure precise alignment of all rotating components along the center axis CA.

[0060] FIG. 10 illustrates another aspect of a cassette 208 that can be used with the wheel assembly 100. The cassette 208 is similar to the cassette 108, and therefore, like components will not be discussed in detail. However, cassette 208 may incorporate alternative construction techniques and materials to further enhance performance, reduce weight, or simplify manufacturing. For example, cassette 208 may be formed from a different base material than cassette 108, such as aluminum or titanium, and may include bonded or integrated ratchet teeth made from a harder material like steel. This hybrid construction allows for optimization of strength and wear resistance in high-stress regions while minimizing overall mass.

[0061] In some embodiments, cassette 208 may be manufactured as a monolithic structure using precision machining or metal injection molding, or it may be assembled from multiple components that are permanently joined. The design may also accommodate a wide range of gear counts and spacing configurations, allowing for customization based on rider preference or drivetrain compatibility.

[0062] The cassette 208 includes gears 216, teeth 220, and channels 222. A through-bore 212 is configured to receive the driveshaft 110. Positioned within the through-bore 212 are inner bearing races 214 and 218. Unlike the bearings 114, 118 used with the cassette 108, the outer races of the bearings are integral with the inner surface of the through-bore 212. The bearing races 214, 218 can be cup and cone bearings, which still allow the driveshaft 110 to be inserted through the cassette 208. By forming the outer races integral with the cassette 208, a weight reduction can be achieved by reducing the number of components in the cassette 208. This integration of bearing races into the cassette body not only reduces weight but also improves structural rigidity and alignment accuracy. By eliminating separate bearing cups orcartridges, the system minimizes tolerance stack-up and potential misalignment, which can lead to premature bearing wear or drivetrain inefficiency.

[0063] In some embodiments, the cassette 208 may also feature optimized channel geometries 222 to further reduce rotational inertia without compromising strength. These channels may be shaped or positioned to maintain balance and may be tailored for specific manufacturing methods such as CNC machining or casting. The cassette 208 may also be configured to accept a wide range of gear counts and spacing, ensuring compatibility with various drivetrain standards and rider preferences.

[0064] In the descriptions above and in the claims, phrases such as "at least one of’ or “one or more of’ may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or features. The term “and / or” may also occur in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless otherwise implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it is used, such a phrase is intended to mean any of the listed elements or features individually or any of the recited elements or features in combination with any of the other recited elements or features. In an aspect, the phrases “at least one of A and B;” “one or more of A and B;” and “A and / or B” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, or A and B together.” A similar interpretation is also intended for lists including three or more items. In an aspect, the phrases “at least one of A, B. and C; ” “one or more of A, B. and C;” and “A, B. and / or C” are each intended to mean “A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together.” In addition, use of the term “based on,” above and in the claims is intended to mean, “based at least in part on,” such that an unrecited feature or element is also permissible.

[0065] Certain exemplary implementations have been described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these implementations have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems, devices, and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary implementations and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary implementation may be combined with the features of other implementations. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. Further, in the present disclosure, like-named components of the implementations generally have similar features, and thus within a particular implementation each feature of each like-named component is not necessarily fully- elaborated upon.

[0066] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

[0067] One skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described implementations. Accordingly, the present application is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly- incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0068] The subject matter described herein can be embodied in systems, apparatus, methods, and / or articles depending on the desired configuration. The implementations set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detail above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and / or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. In an aspect, the implementations described above can be directed to various combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and / or combinations and subcombinations of several further features disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompanying figures and / or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of the following claims.

[0069] Clause 1. A cassette, comprising: a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation; a plurality of gears positioned axially along the cassette, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation; a through-bore extending though the cassette along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive a driveshaft; and a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

[0070] Clause 2. The cassette of clause 1, wherein each of the plurality of gears has a diameter that is different than an adjacent gear.

[0071] Clause 3. The cassette of clause 1, further comprising a channel axially extending into the body.

[0072] Clause 4. The cassette of clause 3, wherein the channel is positioned radially outward of the through-bore, and radially inward of at least one gear of the plurality of gears.

[0073] Clause 5. The cassette of clause 3, wherein the channel extends radially inward towards the through-bore.

[0074] Clause 6. The cassette of clause 1, further comprising a plurality of channels axially extending into the body.

[0075] Clause 7. The cassette of clause 6, wherein the plurality of channels are positioned symmetrically about the body.

[0076] Clause 8. The cassette of clause 1, wherein the teeth of the plurality of teeth each extend axially outward from the terminal surface at the first end of the body.

[0077] Clause 9. The cassette of clause 1, wherein the plurality of teeth is axially displaced from each gear of the plurality of gears.

[0078] Clause 10. The cassette of clause 1, wherein each of the plurality of gears are nonremovable from the body.

[0079] Clause 11. The cassette of clause 1, wherein the plurality of teeth is non-removable from the body.

[0080] Clause 12. A wheel assembly, comprising: an annular rim; a hub positioned in the center of the rim. the hub comprising a through-bore and a plurality of teeth arranged within the through-bore; a plurality of spokes extending from the hub to the rim to secure the hub to the rim; a driveshaft extending through the through-bore of the hub; a gear ring positioned on the driveshaft and within the through-bore of the hub, the gear ring comprising a first set of radially extending teeth and a second set of axially extending teeth; and a cassette, comprising: a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation; a plurality of gears positioned axially along the cassette, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation; a through-bore extending though the cassette along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive the driveshaft; and a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality’ of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality' of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

[0081] Clause 13. The wheel assembly of clause 12, wherein the second set of axially extending teeth are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth of the cassette.

[0082] Clause 14. The wheel assembly of clause 13, wherein the gear ring can move axially within the through-bore of the hub to disengage the second set of axially extending teeth from the plurality of teeth of the cassette.

[0083] Clause 15. The wheel assembly of clause 12, wherein the first set of radially extending teeth are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth arranged within the through-bore of the hub.

[0084] Clause 16. The wheel assembly of clause 12, further comprising a channel axially extending into the body.

[0085] Clause 17. The wheel assembly of clause 16, wherein the channel is positioned radially outward of the through-bore, and radially inward of at least one gear of the plurality of gears.

[0086] Clause 18. The wheel assembly of clause 16, wherein the channel extends radially inward towards the through-bore.

[0087] Clause 19. The wheel assembly of clause 12, wherein the teeth of the plurality of teeth of the cassette each extend axially outward from the terminal surface at the first end of the body.

[0088] Clause 20. The wheel assembly of clause 12, wherein each of the plurality' of gears and the plurality of teeth of the hub are non-removable from the body.

[0089] What is claimed is:

Claims

CLAIMS1. A cassete, comprising: a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation; a plurality of gears positioned axially along the cassete, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation; a through-bore extending though the cassete along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive a driveshaft; and a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

2. The cassete of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of gears has a diameter that is different than an adjacent gear.

3. The cassete of claim 1, further comprising a channel axially extending into the body.

4. The cassete of claim 3, wherein the channel is positioned radially outward of the through-bore, and radially inward of at least one gear of the plurality of gears.

5. The cassete of claim 3, wherein the channel extends radially inward towards the through-bore.

6. The cassete of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of channels axially extending into the body.

7. The cassete of claim 6, wherein the plurality of channels are positioned symmetrically about the body.

8. The cassete of claim 1, wherein the teeth of the plurality of teeth each extend axially outward from the terminal surface at the first end of the body.

9. The cassete of claim 1, wherein the plurality of teeth is axially displaced from each gear of the plurality of gears.

10. The cassete of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of gears are non-removablefrom the body.

11. The cassete of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of teeth is non-removable from the body.

12. A wheel assembly, comprising: an annular rim; a hub positioned in the center of the rim, the hub comprising a through-bore and a plurality7of teeth arranged within the through-bore; a plurality7of spokes extending from the hub to the rim to secure the hub to the rim; a driveshaft extending through the through-bore of the hub; a gear ring positioned on the driveshaft and within the through-bore of the hub, the gear ring comprising a first set of radially extending teeth and a second set of axially extending teeth; and a cassete, comprising: a body having a first end and a second end axially displaced from the first end along an axis of rotation; a plurality of gears positioned axially along the cassete, wherein each gear of the plurality of gears is axially displaced from an adjacent gear along the axis of rotation; a through-bore extending though the cassete along the axis of rotation, and configured to receive the driveshaft; and a plurality of teeth positioned on a terminal surface at the first end of the body, wherein the plurality of gears and plurality of teeth are integral with the body such that the body, plurality of gears, and plurality of teeth rotate simultaneously about the axis of rotation.

13. The wheel assembly of claim 12, wherein the second set of axially extending teeth are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth of the cassette.

14. The wheel assembly of claim 13, wherein the gear ring can move axially within the through-bore of the hub to disengage the second set of axially extending teeth from the plurality of teeth of the cassete.

15. The wheel assembly of claim 12, wherein the first set of radially extending teeth are configured to engage with the plurality of teeth arranged within the through-bore of the hub.

16. The wheel assembly of claim 12, further comprising a channel axially extending into the body.

17. The wheel assembly of claim 16. wherein the channel is positioned radially outward of the through-bore, and radially inward of at least one gear of the plurality of gears.

18. The wheel assembly of claim 16, wherein the channel extends radially inward towards the through-bore.

19. The wheel assembly of claim 12, wherein the teeth of the plurality of teeth of the cassette each extend axially outward from the terminal surface at the first end of the body.

20. The wheel assembly of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of gears and the plurality of teeth of the hub are non-removable from the body.

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