Wave-Structured Fiber Spokes for Low-Drag Tension-Stable Wheels
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spokes in wheel assemblies experience significant tension loss due to radial deformation of the rim upon inflation and have poor shock resistance, leading to increased wind resistance and reduced stability.
Innovation Solution
A fiber spoke design featuring a flat axle shape with wave structures on the windward part and side surfaces, combined with an aerodynamic rim incorporating aero profiles, to reduce wind resistance and enhance shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional straight spokes are used, then manufacturing is simple and rigidity is high, but tension loss occurs due to rim radial deformation and shock resistance is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The spoke body is designed with a curved profile instead of a straight shape. The curvature allows the spoke to flex and absorb radial deformation forces from the rim, maintaining tension stability while accommodating the hoop-tightening effect during inflation without significant tension loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The spoke is divided into multiple functional segments: a curved body portion for shock absorption and tension maintenance, and a straight connecting segment for rigid connection to the rim and hub. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional straight spokes are used, then the structure is simple, but wind resistance is high and aerodynamic performance is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The curved profile of the spoke body reduces aerodynamic drag by allowing air to flow more smoothly around the spoke during wheel rotation, compared to a straight spoke that creates more turbulence and resistance.
3Strength
If the rim is inflated, then the tire squeezes the rim inward creating hoop-tightening effect, but this causes radial deformation and significant tension loss in the spoke
Solution Approach 1:
The curved spoke body acts as a flexible element that can accommodate the radial deformation of the rim during inflation. The curvature allows the spoke to bend slightly with the rim's hoop-tightening effect, maintaining continuous tension without significant loss.
4Strength
If conventional spokes are used, then manufacturing is simple, but overall shock resistance of the wheel assembly is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The curved profile of the spoke body provides inherent shock absorption capability. When impact forces are applied, the curvature allows the spoke to flex and dissipate energy, improving the overall shock resistance of the wheel assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The spoke design changes the physical parameters of the spoke body, including its profile curvature and cross-sectional geometry, to optimize both shock absorption and aerodynamic performance while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a fiber spoke, including a spoke body. The spoke body includes a windward part, a tail, and two side surfaces connected between the windward part and the tail. The windward part is provided with a first wave structure, and the two side surfaces are provided with a second wave structure. A flat axle shape design of the spoke body, combined with the wave structure, can significantly reduce the wind resistance of the spoke, thereby reducing the overall wind resistance of the wheel assembly and reducing the tension loss of the spoke after tire inflation.