Fiber Composite Spoke Nipple Prevents Galvanic Corrosion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spoke nipples made of different metals, such as steel and aluminum, face corrosion issues when used together, limiting their flexibility and compatibility with various wheel components.
Innovation Solution
A spoke nipple made of fiber composite material with reinforcing elements, such as carbon or glass fibers, and a uniform thermoplastic matrix, allowing for adjustable spoke tension and compatibility with diverse wheel materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal spoke nipples (steel or aluminum) are used to connect spokes and rims, then the connection strength and adjustability are sufficient, but corrosion occurs when different metals are combined
Solution Approach 1:
The spoke nipple is made from a fiber composite material consisting of reinforcing fibers (such as glass fibers or carbon fibers) embedded in a matrix material (such as polyamide or polyester). This composite structure provides both the mechanical strength needed for spoke connection and corrosion resistance, as the non-metallic composite does not suffer from galvanic corrosion when in contact with different metals like steel spokes and aluminum rims.
2Strength
If metal spoke nipples are used, then structural strength is adequate, but the weight is higher compared to non-metallic alternatives
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber composite material combines high-strength reinforcing fibers with a durable matrix material to achieve the necessary mechanical strength for spoke nipple applications. The reinforcing fibers (glass or carbon) provide tensile strength comparable to or exceeding metal, while the overall density of the composite material is lower than that of metal alternatives, resulting in reduced weight.
3Weight of moving object
If fiber composite material is used for the spoke nipple, then weight is reduced and corrosion resistance is improved, but the thread fastening capability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The fiber composite structure is designed with appropriate fiber orientation and density to maintain thread fastening capability. The reinforcing fibers are arranged to withstand the tensile and shear forces generated during spoke tensioning, while the matrix material provides a suitable surface for thread formation and engagement, ensuring the thread can reliably secure the spoke.
Data Source
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AI summary
A bicycle wheel component (50), comprising a spoke nipple (50) with a nipple body (55) and two opposite and spaced-apart end portions (51, 52) for detachably connecting a spoke (10) of a wheel (101, 102) to a rim (10) or a hub (108) of a wheel (101, 102). One of the end portions (51, 52) forms a nipple head (53). The nipple body (55) has a receptacle (54) for one end (30) of a spoke (10). A thread (56) for fastening a spoke (10) is provided on the receptacle (54). The nipple body (55) is made of a fiber composite material (2) and comprises reinforcing elements (4) and at least one matrix material (3).