Conical Expander Screw for Sealed Bicycle Pipe Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixation methods for elements within bicycle pipes are cumbersome and prone to loose arrangements, which can damage the elements, pipes, and other components, while also failing to maintain water and dustproof integrity.
Innovation Solution
A screw with a cone-shaped outer surface and an axial implementing opening, designed as an expander screw, is used to create a radial expansion force within the pipe, providing a secure clamping mechanism while allowing access for supply lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing fastening concepts are used to secure elements within pipes, then elements can be fixed, but the fastening methods are cumbersome and may lead to loose arrangements causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The expander device is inserted through the feedthrough opening in the screw and expanded radially within the pipe interior. The expander is nested within the screw structure during installation, then deployed into the pipe to create the securing force, eliminating the need for separate fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw itself serves dual functions: it provides structural support through its conical outer surface that generates radial expansion force, and it provides access through its feedthrough opening. The system secures itself by integrating the fastening function directly into the screw structure rather than requiring additional fastening components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If tubes are sealed to remain watertight and dustproof, then protection is provided, but access for power and control signal supply is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The screw structure is segmented into two functional zones: the conical outer surface that interfaces with the pipe interior for securing, and the feedthrough opening that provides access through the screw body. This segmentation allows the screw to simultaneously maintain external sealing while providing internal access pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedthrough opening acts as an intermediary structure that penetrates the screw body to provide access for lines supplying power and control signals to the expander device, while the screw itself maintains the water and dust seal around this access point.
3Ease of operation
If a through-opening is provided in the screw for line passage, then access is enabled, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The feedthrough opening extends axially through the screw body rather than creating a large lateral void. By orienting the access pathway in the axial dimension, the screw maintains its radial and circumferential structural integrity while providing a narrow but effective access channel for lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw exhibits different structural qualities in different regions: the conical outer surface provides expansion and securing function, while the feedthrough opening provides localized access. The screw head has substantially the same diameter as the central region, concentrating structural strength where needed while allowing the feedthrough opening in a less critical region.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The screw effectively secures elements within bicycle pipes, maintaining water and dustproof seals while allowing for easy access and supply of electrical signals, thus enhancing the durability and functionality of bicycle components.
Implementation Method 1
The screw is designed for the preferably clamping fixation of an expander, e.g. by means of frictional connection within a tube
Data Source
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AI summary
A screw (10) with a screw body (12) and a through-hole (14) extending axially through the screw body (12), wherein the screw body (12) has a conical outer surface (16). The invention further comprises an expander system (100), a bicycle tube system (1000), and a bicycle light (1002).