Bicycle Sprocket Driver with Internal Torque Transmission for Small Cogs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle sprocket systems face challenges with the increasing need for small sprockets, requiring complex and heavy multi-part arrangements that are difficult to install and result in undesirable mechanical stresses due to the axial distance between chain engagement and torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
A driver design that eliminates the need for external splines, using an adapter to fix the sprocket assembly axially and radially, allowing for torque transmission spatially away from the coupling section, enabling the use of small sprockets with a simplified and lighter system by concentrating load-bearing regions and optimizing weight distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional drivers with external splines are used to mount sprockets, then torque transmission is achieved, but the system becomes complex and heavy when small sprockets are required
Solution Approach 1:
The driver is segmented into functional zones: an axial positioning section for mounting the sprocket assembly, and a separate torque transmission section with splines. This allows the positioning section to be simplified while maintaining torque transmission capability through the dedicated spline section.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention moves the spline configuration from the external cylindrical surface (conventional) to an internal annular groove or recess. This dimensional repositioning allows small sprockets to be mounted without requiring complex external spline structures, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-part adapter arrangements are used to accommodate small sprockets, then small sprocket mounting is enabled, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning section and torque transmission section are merged into a single integrated driver structure. The axial positioning surface and internal splines coexist in one component, eliminating the need for separate adapters and reducing total weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver is designed with universal functionality to accommodate both large and small sprockets through its dual-zone structure. The axial positioning section handles mounting for all sprocket sizes, while the internal spline section provides torque transmission, making the driver adaptable without additional weight-bearing components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-part arrangements with inward-bearing placement are used, then small sprockets can be mounted, but axial distance between chain engagement and torque transmission increases causing mechanical stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The driver exhibits local quality differentiation: the axial positioning section provides precise location for small sprockets, while the torque transmission section with internal splines is positioned to minimize axial distance. This localized optimization reduces mechanical stresses while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal spline structure acts as an intermediary that bridges the axial positioning function and torque transmission function. By placing the splines in an internal groove rather than on the external surface, the mediator reduces the axial lever arm and associated mechanical stresses.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple sprocket arrangement is mountable to a rear axle arrangement of a bicycle. The multiple sprocket arrangement includes a sprocket assembly having a plurality of sprockets with different numbers of teeth. The sprocket assembly includes a support ring integrated with at least a largest sprocket of the plurality of sprockets. The support ring is firmly connected to the remaining sprockets and has a torque transmitting section.