Bicycle Sprocket Segmented Arms Interior Cavity Weight Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycle sprockets lack an efficient design that balances weight reduction with maintaining rigidity, leading to suboptimal performance in transmitting pedaling action to the bicycle wheel.
Innovation Solution
The design features a bicycle sprocket comprising two members with a plurality of teeth and arms arranged circumferentially, forming an interior cavity when attached, which is partially between the arms, and utilizes a multi-layered structure for the teeth made of different metallic materials and diffusion bonding or adhesive attachment for enhanced coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a traditional solid bicycle sprocket design is used, then structural rigidity is maintained, but weight is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The sprocket body is divided into multiple arms that are spaced apart to form interior cavities, transforming a solid structure into a segmented one. This segmentation reduces material usage and weight while maintaining structural integrity through the arm configuration that engages with the hub assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The sprocket incorporates interior cavities within its structure, creating a porous or hollow configuration rather than a solid mass. This allows significant weight reduction while the remaining material is strategically positioned in the arms to maintain necessary rigidity and strength for power transmission.
2Weight of moving object
If weight is reduced through hollow or cavity structures, then manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented arm structure provides natural locations for interior cavities, making the manufacturing process more straightforward. Each arm can be formed as a separate element or section, allowing for easier casting, machining, or assembly compared to creating complex hollow structures within a solid body.
Solution Approach 2:
The interior cavities are nested within the overall sprocket structure formed by the arms, creating an integrated design where the hollow spaces are naturally incorporated into the arm configuration rather than requiring separate manufacturing steps for adding complexity.
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
This configuration allows for weight savings while maintaining rigidity, improving the sprocket's performance and appearance by creating a seamless connection between the members.
Implementation Method 1
diffusion bonding or adhesive attachment for enhanced coupling
Implementation Method 2
diffusion bonding or adhesive attachment for enhanced coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle sprocket comprises a first member and a second member. The first member comprises a plurality of first teeth and a first body. The first body includes a plurality of first arms arranged in a circumferential direction of the bicycle sprocket. The second member comprises a plurality of second teeth and a second body. The second body includes a plurality of second arms arranged in the circumferential direction. The second member is configured to be attached to the first member so that an interior cavity is provided between the first member and the second member. The interior cavity is at least partially provided between at least one of the first arms and at least one of the second arms facing the at least one of the first arms in a state where the second member is attached to the first member.