Deep-Drawn Locknut Bead for Bicycle Wheel Spoke Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing bicycle wheel spokes using threaded nuts are inefficient, leading to loosening and loss of geometry and rigidity due to uneven stress distribution and the need for frequent retightening, with known solutions like thread locks causing production issues and being costly.
Innovation Solution
A threaded nut with a locally deformed internal thread, created through stamping, which forms a bead that provides braking torque without the need for external adhesives, allowing for secure assembly and compatibility with automatic screwdrivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thread locks (glues or reactive adhesives) are applied to the tapping and/or thread to prevent loosening, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the braking function from external adhesives and integrates it directly into the nut structure through a braking zone with increased friction coefficient on the internal threads, eliminating the need for separate thread lock compounds
Solution Approach 2:
The nut structure itself provides the braking function through its designed friction zone, making the system self-sufficient without requiring external chemical additives or additional components
2Reliability
If pre-coated nuts with glue are used, then the braking effect is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to glue contamination of screwdriver needles and production stoppages
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the adhesive substance from the assembly process entirely, replacing it with a mechanical friction-based braking zone that requires no external materials and causes no contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the chemical adhesive system with a mechanical friction system, where the braking zone's increased friction coefficient provides the locking effect without any chemical substances
3Reliability
If nylon rings are added to nuts for braking, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to high manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the braking function directly into the nut's internal thread structure by creating a braking zone with modified friction characteristics, eliminating the need for separate nylon rings or additional components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies the braking effect locally to a specific zone on the internal threads rather than requiring additional components, creating a localized friction increase where needed
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 solution ensures reliable and cost-effective securement of bicycle wheel spokes, reducing the risk of loosening and maintaining wheel geometry and rigidity, while being compatible with automated assembly processes and reducing production downtime.
Implementation Method 1
The localized deformation of the internal thread (2) results in the creation of a bead (15) corresponding to a pushing back of material and/or a breaking of the continuity of one or more sections of the counterthreads (12) of the internal thread (2). The bead (15) is capable of being deformed by the thread (14) of the part (10) during screwing.
Implementation Method 2
at least one localized deformation of the internal thread (2) is carried out by pushing back material so as to ensure the relative blocking of the nut (1) and part (10)
Data Source
Figure 1~6
Figure 7~10
AI summary
The invention relates to a nut (1) provided with an internal thread (2) and a brake means for ensuring the braking thereof in a screwed position on the screw thread (9) of a part (10), characterised in that the brake means is formed by at least one deep-drawn area of the internal thread (2), wherein the internal thread is locally deformed and forms a bead (15) corresponding to the flattening of at least one section of the reverse pitches (12) of the internal thread (10), the internal thread (2) being suitable for being deformed by the screw thread (9) of the part (10) during the screwing, the threads (14) of the screw thread (9) pushing against and partially detaching the bead (15). The invention also relates to a locknut for a screw-nut assembly.