U.S. patent application number 09/964772 was filed with the patent office on 2002-01-24 for bicycle hub for disc brake.
Invention is credited to Tabe, Koshi.
Application Number | 20020008422 09/964772 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23964899 |
Filed Date | 2002-01-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020008422 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tabe, Koshi |
January 24, 2002 |
Bicycle hub for disc brake
Abstract
A bicycle brake disc hub is provided for use with tangential
bicycle spokes. The bicycle hub basically has a hub axle and a hub
body with a brake rotor attachment portion integral formed
therewith as a one-piece, unitary member. The hub axle has a center
axis extending between a first end and a second end. The hub body
has an interior passageway with the hub axle being rotatably
supported therein. The hub body also has a set of first spoke
openings circumferentially arranged around the hub body. The brake
rotor attachment portion is located at a first end section of the
center tubular portion. The first spoke openings are located
adjacent the brake rotor attachment portion. The first spoke
openings extend through the first end section of the center tubular
portion of the hub body. The brake rotor attachment portion having
a plurality of through bores. The through bores receive a bolt
therethrough with a nut coupled the end of the bolt
Inventors: |
Tabe, Koshi; (Osaka,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SHINJYU GLOBAL IP COUNSELORS, LLP
1233 20TH STREET, NW, SUITE 700
WASHINGTON
DC
20036-2680
US
|
Family ID: |
23964899 |
Appl. No.: |
09/964772 |
Filed: |
September 28, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09964772 |
Sep 28, 2001 |
|
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|
09494543 |
Jan 31, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
301/110.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60B 21/062 20130101;
B60B 27/026 20130101; B60B 1/041 20130101; B60B 1/044 20130101;
B60B 1/042 20130101; B60B 21/04 20130101; B60B 27/0005 20130101;
B60B 21/025 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
301/110.5 |
International
Class: |
B60B 027/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A bicycle hub for use with bicycle spokes, said bicycle hub
comprising: a hub axle having a center axis extending between a
first end and a second end; and a hub body having a center tubular
portion defining an interior passageway with said hub axle being
rotatably supported therein, a brake rotor attachment portion
located at a first end section of said center tubular portion, and
a plurality of first spoke openings adjacent said brake rotor
attachment portion, said first spoke openings extending through
said first end section of said center tubular portion of said hub
body, said brake rotor attachment portion being integrally formed
with said center tubular portion as a one-piece, unitary member,
said brake rotor attachment portion having a plurality of through
bores.
2. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said through bores
are unthreaded bores.
3. A bicycle hub according to claim 2, further comprising a bolt
located in each of said through bores and a nut threadedly coupled
to each of said bolts.
4. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, further comprising a bolt
located in each of said through bores and a nut threadedly coupled
to each of said bolts.
5. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said through bores
are threaded bores.
6. A bicycle hub according to claim 5, further comprising a bolt
threadedly coupled in each of said through bores.
7. A bicycle hub according to claim 6, wherein a nut threadedly
coupled to each of said bolts.
8. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said center tubular
portion with said brake rotor attachment portion being constructed
of aluminum.
9. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said brake rotor
attachment portion has six of said through bores.
10. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, further comprising a
freewheel coupled to said second end of said axle adjacent a second
end section of said hub body.
11. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said hub body has
at least eight of said first spoke openings.
12. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said hub body has
at least sixteen of said first spoke openings.
13. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein each of said first
spoke openings has a first insertion portion with a large width
that permits an enlarged head portion of a spoke to pass
therethrough and a first retaining portion with a width that is
smaller than said width of said first insertion portion to retain
the enlarged head portion of the spoke therein.
14. A bicycle hub according to claim 13, wherein each of said first
spoke openings includes a second additional retaining portion to
retain the enlarged head portions of two spokes within each of said
first spoke openings.
15. A bicycle hub according to claim 13, wherein said through bores
are unthreaded bores.
16. A bicycle hub according to claim 15, further comprising a bolt
located in each of said through bores and a nut threadedly coupled
to each of said bolts.
17. A bicycle hub according to claim 13, wherein said through bores
are threaded bores.
18. A bicycle hub according to claim 17, further comprising a bolt
threadedly coupled in each of said through bores.
19. A bicycle hub according to claim 18, further comprising a nut
threadedly coupled to each of said bolts.
20. A bicycle hub according to claim 1, wherein said hub body
further includes a set of second spoke openings circumferentially
arranged around said hub body at a second end section that is
axially spaced from said first spoke openings.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention generally relates to a bicycle disc brake
hub. More specifically, the present invention relates a bicycle
disc brake hub with an integral rotor mounting portion.
[0003] 2. Background Information
[0004] Bicycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of
recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover,
bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport. Whether the
bicycle is used for recreation, transportation or competition, the
bicycle industry is constantly improving their components.
Recently, the braking systems for bicycles have included the use of
disc brakes. The use of disc brakes has resulted in modifications
to the bicycle hub of the bicycle wheel so that a brake rotor can
be mounted thereon.
[0005] The most basic bicycle wheels have a hub, a plurality of
spokes and an annular rim. The hub is attached to a part of the
frame of the bicycle for relative rotation. The inner ends of the
spokes are coupled to the hub and extend outwardly from the hub.
The annular rim is coupled to the outer ends of the spokes and has
an outer portion for supporting a pneumatic tire thereon.
Typically, the spokes of the bicycle wheel are thin metal wire
spokes. The ends of the hub are provided with a flange that is used
to couple the spokes to the hub. In particular, holes are provided
in the hub flanges. The wire spokes are usually bent on their inner
end and provided with an enlarged head or flange that is formed in
the shape of a nail head. The inner end is supported in one of the
holes in one of the hub flanges. The outer ends of the spokes
typically are provided with threads for engaging spoke nipples,
which secure the outer ends of the wire spokes to the rim. In
particular, the spoke nipples have flanges, which engage the
interior surface of the rim.
[0006] With a spoke constructed in this manner, the nipples are
installed in nipple holes formed in the rim. The spokes are
inserted sideways through the holes in the hub flange until the
enlarged head or flanges of the spokes engaging the areas
surrounding the holes in the hub flange. The male threads on the
ends of the spokes are threaded into the female threads of the
spoke nipples installed in the openings of the rim.
[0007] When the hub is a brake disc hub or is a rear hub,
installation and/or replacement of the spokes can be difficult. In
the case of a disk brake hub, one end of the hub usually has a
rotor mounting portion. Often, the rotor mounting portion is a
plurality of blind bores that receive bolts to directly mount the
brake disc rotor to the end of the hub. Thus, the brake disc rotor
makes it difficult to insert the spokes in a sideways direction.
Likewise, if the hub is a rear hub, the sprockets can be obstacles
to install or replace spokes.
[0008] Moreover, the blind bores of the hubs are time consuming to
form and often become damaged. When the blind bores become damaged,
the entire hub must be replaced. Thus, these prior hubs are
expensive to manufacture and replace.
[0009] In view of the above, there exists a need for a bicycle hub
which overcomes the above mentioned problems in the prior art. This
invention addresses this need in the prior art as well as other
needs, which will become apparent to those skilled in the art from
this disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] One object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle
hub that has an integrated brake rotor attachment portion.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
bicycle hub that is relatively lightweight.
[0012] The foregoing objects can be attained by providing a bicycle
brake disc hub for use with bicycle spokes. The bicycle hub
basically includes a hub axle and a hub body a brake rotor
attachment portion. The hub axle has a center axis extending
between a first end and a second end. The hub body has a center
tubular portion defining an interior passageway with the hub axle
being rotatably supported therein. The brake rotor attachment
portion is located at a first end section of the center tubular
portion. The first spoke openings are located adjacent the brake
rotor attachment portion. The first spoke openings extend through
the first end section of the center tubular portion of the hub
body. The brake rotor attachment portion is integrally formed with
the center tubular portion as a one-piece, unitary member. The
brake rotor attachment portion having a plurality of through
bores.
[0013] These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of
the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the
art from the following detailed description, which, taken in
conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred
embodiments of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of
this original disclosure:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a conventional bicycle
with front and rear brake disc hubs in accordance with a first
embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the rear wheel of the
bicycle illustrated in FIG. 1 with the sprockets removed;
[0017] FIG. 3 is partially exploded perspective view of the rim,
one of the spokes and one of the spoke nipples of the bicycle
illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub
of the rear wheel illustrated in FIG. 2 with the sprockets
removed;
[0019] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub
of the rear wheel illustrated in FIG. 3 with certain portions
broken away for purposes of illustration;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a left end elevational view of the rear brake disc
hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with the brake disc rotor
bolts mounted thereto;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a left end elevational view of the rear brake disc
hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with the brake disc rotor
bolts removed;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a left end elevational view of the rear brake disc
hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with unthreaded bolt
holes;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the
rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 as seen along
section line 9-9 of FIG. 4;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the
rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 as seen along
section line 10-10 of FIG. 4;
[0025] FIG. 11 is a partial elevational view of one of the spoke
openings of the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and
5;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of portion of the rear brake
disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 with two spokes
extending outwardly therefrom;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first seal
for the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the second seal
for the rear brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5;
[0029] FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc
hub of the front wheel illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc
hub of the front wheel illustrated in FIG. 1 with certain portions
broken away for purposes of illustration;
[0031] FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first seal
for the front brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 15 and
16;
[0032] FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the second seal
for the front brake disc hub body illustrated in FIGS. 15 and
16;
[0033] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 20 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc
hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIG. 19 installed
thereon;
[0035] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc
hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIG. 21 installed
thereon;
[0037] FIG. 23 is an inside elevational view of a third embodiment
of a spoke opening cover for the hubs of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 24 is an edge elevational view of the spoke opening
cover illustrated in FIG. 23 for the hubs of the present
invention;
[0039] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc
hub with the spoke opening cover illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24
installed thereon;
[0040] FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the rear brake disc
hub in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention
with the sprockets removed;
[0041] FIG. 27 a side elevational view of the rear brake disc hub
illustrated in FIG. 26 in accordance with a second embodiment of
the present invention with certain portions broken away for
purposes of illustration;
[0042] FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of the front brake disc
hub in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention
with the sprockets removed; and
[0043] FIG. 29 a side elevational view of the front brake disc hub
illustrated in FIG. 28 in accordance with a second embodiment of
the present invention with certain portions broken away for
purposes of illustration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0044] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-3, a bicycle 10 is
illustrated with certain parts being modified in accordance with
the present invention as discussed below. The bicycle 10 basically
has a frame 12 with a front fork 13 movably coupled thereto. A rear
wheel 14 is rotatably coupled to a rear portion of the frame 12,
while a front wheel 16 is rotatably coupled to the front fork 13.
The frame 12 also has a seat 18 adjustably coupled to frame 12, a
handlebar 19 coupled to front fork 13 for turning front wheel 16
and a drive train 20 for propelling bicycle 10. The bicycle 10 is
also provided with a pair of disc brake assemblies 21 having a
caliper 21a and a brake lever 21b.
[0045] Since these parts of bicycle 10 are well known in the art,
these parts will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein,
except as they are modified in accordance with the present
invention. Moreover, various conventional bicycle parts such as
brakes, derailleurs, additional sprocket, etc., which are not
illustrated and/or discussed in detail herein, can be used in
conjunction with the present invention.
[0046] As seen in FIG. 2, the rear wheel 14 has a rear hub 22, a
plurality of spokes 24 extending outwardly from the rear hub 22, a
rim 26 coupled to the outer ends of spokes 24 by spoke nipples 28,
and a tire 30 located on the outer surface of rim 26. The rear hub
22 is also provided with a brake disc rotor 32 that is attached to
the rear hub 22 by six blots 32a and six nuts 32b, as explained
below. While the illustrated embodiment is a thirty-six spoke
wheel, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this
disclosure that other spoke arrangements are possible without
departing from the present invention. For example, a thirty-two
spoke wheel or a forty spoke wheel can be constructed in accordance
with the present invention without departing from the present
invention. Basically, the number of spoke openings depends upon the
rim to be used with the hub of the present invention.
[0047] Preferably, the spokes 24, the rim 26 and spoke nipples 28
are all conventional parts that are used with the rear hub 22 of
the present invention as seen in FIG. 3. In other words, the unique
design of the rear hub 22 allows it to be used with conventional
parts, e.g., tangential spokes 24 and a conventional rim 26.
Accordingly, when the rear wheel 14 is assembled, the spokes 24
extend tangentially from an imaginary circle centered on the center
axis of rotation of rear hub 22. In the illustrated embodiment of
FIGS. 2-5, the rear hub 22 and the rim 26 has thirty-six of the
spokes 24 coupled therebetween.
[0048] The term "tangential spokes" are spokes that have a straight
section 24a and a bent end 24b with an enlarged head 24c such that
straight section 24a extends at an angle of about 95.degree.
relative to the bent end 24b. Such spokes are well known in the
bicycle art. As seen in FIG. 3, the spokes 24 of the illustrated
embodiment each have an outer threaded end 24d that is located at
the opposite end of the center straight section 24a from the bent
end 24b (inner end portion) with the enlarged head 24c. The bent
end 24b has a center axis that forms an angle of about 95.degree.
with the center axis of the straight section 24a. The bent ends 24b
of the spokes 24 are designed to be received within the first and
second spoke openings. In particular, the enlarged heads 24c of the
spokes 24 engage an interior surface of the hub body 38 with the
straight sections 24a extending substantially tangentially to an
imaginary circle with a center on the center axis of rotation of
the rear hub 22.
[0049] The rim 26 can be any conventional rim that has a plurality
of spoke holes 34 for receiving the spoke nipples 28 for attaching
the outer threaded ends 24d of the spokes 24 thereto. In the
illustrated embodiment, the rim 26 is a conventional steel or alloy
rim having a U-shaped cross section with thirty-six spoke holes 34.
The spoke holes 34 are equally spaced apart in a circumferential
direction. The spoke holes 34 are preferably lie in a single plane
P that divides the cross section in half as seen in FIG. 3. Of
course, rims with fewer or more spoke holes 34 can be used with a
hub of the present invention, if needed and/or desired. For
example, the rim 26 can have thirty-two spoke holes instead of
thirty-six spoke holes, if the rear hub 22 is modified to have
fewer holes as explained below.
REAR HUB 22
[0050] As best seen in FIG. 5, the rear hub 22 basically includes a
hub axle 36, a hub body or shell 38, a first bearing assembly 40a,
a second bearing assembly 40b, a first spoke seal 42a, a second
spoke seal 42b, a freewheel 44 and a quick release mechanism 46. Of
the parts of rear hub 22, only the hub body 38 and the first and
second spoke seals 42a and 42b are non-conventional parts. The
remaining parts of rear hub 22 are relatively conventional, and
thus, the remaining parts of rear hub 22 will not be discussed or
illustrated in detail herein.
[0051] The hub axle 36 has a center axis A extending between a
first end 36a and a second end 36b. The quick release mechanism 46
extends through a center bore 36c of the hub axle 36 such that the
quick release mechanism 46 is coupled to the hub axle 36 in a
conventional manner. The first and second ends 36a and 36b of the
hub axle 36 are threaded for receiving a pair of nuts 50a and 50b
that applies an axial force on the hub body 38, the bearing
assemblies 40a and 40b, the spoke seals 42a and 42b, and the
freewheel 44. First and second bearing assemblies 40a and 40b
rotatably mount the hub body 38 with the freewheel 44 on the hub
axle 36. The freewheel 44 allows the hub axle 36 to rotate freely
relative to the hub body 38 in one direction, but fixedly couples
the hub axle 36 relative to the hub body 38 in the opposite
rotational direction.
[0052] The hub body 38 is illustrated in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the hub
body 38 is a hollow member that defines an interior passageway 52
with the hub axle 36 being rotatably supported therein by the first
and second bearing assemblies 40a and 40b. Thus, the hub body 38 is
a substantially tubular member. Specifically, the hub body 38 has a
center tubular portion 38c with first and second end sections 38a
and 38b being integral formed with the center tubular portion 38c
as a one-piece, unitary member. The first end section 38a has an
integrally mounted brake rotor attachment portion 38d, while a
second end section 38b has the freewheel 44 fixedly coupled
thereto.
[0053] A set of first spoke openings 60a are provided at the first
end section 38a of the hub body 38 for receiving the bent ends 24b
of the spokes 24. Similarly, the second end section 38b of the hub
body 38 is provided with a second set of spoke openings 60b for
receiving the bent ends 24b of the spokes 24. In the illustrated
embodiment, the first end section 38a is provided with nine of the
first spoke openings 60a and the second end section 38b is provided
with nine of the second spoke openings 60b. The spoke openings 60a
and 60b are equally spaced apart about the circumference of the hub
body 38. Each of the spoke openings 60a and 60b are also designed
to receive two spokes 24 as explained below. Accordingly, the rear
hub 22 is designed to have thirty-six spokes extending outwardly
therefrom in a generally tangential direction.
[0054] Preferably, the first and second sets of spoke openings 60a
and 60b are identical. The first and second spoke openings 60a and
60b are designed to be used with conventional tangential spokes 24.
Of course, it is possible that the first and second sets of spoke
openings 60a and 60b can be different such that tangential spokes
24 are used in one end of the hub body 38 and a different types of
spokes are used in the other end of the hub body 38. The first
spoke openings 60a are circumferentially arranged around the hub
body 38 adjacent to the brake rotor attachment portion 38d.
Preferably, the first spoke openings 60a are spaced axially inward
of the brake rotor attachment portion 38d so that brake disc rotor
32 can be easily attached with the bolts 32a and nuts 32b.
[0055] In this embodiment, the first and second spoke openings 60a
and 60b are elongated slots that are each provided with an
insertion portion 61 and a pair of retaining portions 62.
Accordingly, each of the spoke openings 60a and 60b is designed to
have a pair of spokes 24 retained therein with the spokes 24
extending in opposite directions.
[0056] The insertion portion 61 of each spoke opening is located
between the pair of retaining portions 62 of each spoke opening.
Each insertion portion 61 is formed by a pair of opposed curved
surfaces 64 that are spaced apart so as to be equal to or slightly
larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24c of
the spokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24b with enlarged
heads 24c) of the spokes 24 can be easily inserted into the spoke
openings 60a and 60b through the insertion portions 61.
[0057] The retaining portions 62 have smaller widths or diameters
than the insertion portions 61. More specifically, the diameters or
widths of the retaining portions 62 are smaller than the diameters
or widths of the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 so as to
retain the spokes 24 within the spoke openings 60a and 60b. The
retaining portions 62 are each preferably defined by a partial
cylindrical surface 66 that is connected to the curved surfaces 64
of the associated insertion portion 61 by a pair of straight
surfaces 68.
[0058] The spoke openings 60a and 60b are formed as elongated slots
that are angled relative to the axis A. Accordingly, the insertion
portions 61 are arranged in a circumferential pattern with one set
of the retaining portions 62 being located axially outward from the
insertion portions 61 and the other set of retaining portions 62
being spaced axially inward from the insertion portions 61. In
other words, a first set of retaining portions 62 form an outer
circumferential row of the retaining portions 62, and a second set
of the retaining portions 62 form an inner circumferential row of
retaining portions 62 with the insertion portions 61 being located
between the rows of retaining portions 62.
[0059] Preferably, the insertion portion 61 and the retaining
portions 62 of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also
preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retaining portions 62
of the spoke openings 60a and 60b are tapered to avoid sharp edges
engaging the spokes 24.
[0060] Each of the insertion portions 61 has a center longitudinal
axis C.sub.1 that passes through the center axis A of the hub axle
36. The retaining portions 62, on the other hand, have center
longitudinal axes C.sub.2 that are parallel to the center
longitudinal axis C.sub.1 of the insertion portion 61 for each of
the spoke openings 60a and 60b. Thus, the center longitudinal axes
C.sub.2 of the retaining portions 62 do not pass through the center
axis of the hub axle 36. Rather, the center longitudinal axes
C.sub.2 of the retaining portions 62 are angled with respect to
center axis A. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis C.sub.2 of
each retaining portion 62 is angled between about 5.degree. and
about 20.degree. from a radial orientation in the hub body 38. In
the illustrated embodiment, the retaining portions 62 are angled
about 10.degree. with respect to center axis A for a twenty-six
inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter
approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim with
thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22
millimeters, the retaining portions 62 are preferably angled about
11.degree. with respect to center axis A. This angled configuration
of the retaining portions 62 results in the straight sections 24a
of the spokes 24 being easily arranged in a tangential direction
relative to an imaginary circle centered on the hub body 38.
Moreover, this angled configuration of the retaining portions 62
allows the straight sections 24a of the spokes 24 to be easily
aligned with the spoke holes 34 of the rim 26 without significant
bending of the spokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the spokes
24 are not bent more than about five degrees. Of course, the less
bending of the spokes 24, the better.
[0061] If the retaining portions 62 were formed with their center
axis passing through the center axis A of the hub axle 36, then the
conventional spokes 24 would be placed under excessive bending
forces, which could result in the spokes 24 breaking during use of
the wheel. In particular, if the retaining portions 62 have their
center axes passing through the center of the hub axle 36, then the
center straight section 24a would have to be bent from 95.degree.
to 108.degree. for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke
holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters. In
contrast, with the retaining portions 62 of the spokes 24 being
angled, the amount of bending of the spokes 24 can be reduced
and/or eliminated.
[0062] The brake rotor attachment portion 38d is integrally formed
with the center tubular portion 38c of the hub body 38 as a
one-piece, unitary member. In the illustrated embodiment, the brake
rotor attachment portion 38d is formed with six attachment members
or points with through bores 70. While six individual attachment
points are illustrated, it will be apparent to those skilled in the
art from this disclosure that fewer or more attachment points can
be utilized. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the
art from this disclosure that the attachment portions could be a
continuous flange, if needed and/or desired. The through bore 70
can be threaded (FIG. 7) or unthreaded (bores 70' of FIG. 8). By
using through bores 70 instead of blind bores, the rear hub 22 can
be easily manufactured at a relatively lower cost.
[0063] As seen in FIG. 8, the through bores 70" can be unthreaded
bores. In the case of unthreaded through bores 70", the bolts 32a
extend into openings in the brake disc rotor 32 and then through
the through bores 70". The free ends of the bolts 32a have nuts 32b
threaded thereon for attaching the brake disc rotor 32 to the hub
body 38. This arrangement allows the hub body 38 and the brake
rotor attachment portion 38d to be formed out of the same a
lightweight material, such as aluminum. In this arrangement, the
hub body 38 does not need to be replaced if the through bores 70"
become damaged.
[0064] As seen in FIG. 7, the through bores 70 are threaded. In the
case of threaded through bores 70, the bolts 32a extend into
openings in the brake disc rotor 32 and then threaded into the
through bores 70. Optionally, the free ends of the bolts 32a can
have the nuts 32b threaded thereon for more securely attaching the
brake disc rotor 32 to the hub body 38. In this arrangement, if the
threads of through bores 70 become damaged, the hub body 38 does
not need to be replaced. Rather, the bolts 32a and the nuts 32b
securely attach the brake disc rotor 32 to the hub body 38.
[0065] Bearing assemblies 40a and 40b rotatably supports hub body
38 on hub axle 36. The bearing assembly 40a basically includes a
plurality of balls 74a located between an inner race member 76a and
an outer race member 78a. Similarly, the bearing assembly 40b
basically includes a plurality of balls 74b located between an
inner race member 76b and an outer race member 78b. Since bearing
assemblies 40a and 40b are well known in the bicycle art, they will
not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein.
[0066] Turning now to FIGS. 13 and 14, the spoke seals 42a and 42b
are arranged in the interior passageway 52 of the hub body 38 so as
to be adjacent the spoke openings 60a and 60b to isolate the spoke
openings 60a and 60b from the hub axle 36. In other words, the
spoke seals 42a and 42b prevent contaminants from entering the rear
hub 22 through the spoke openings 60a and 60b. The spoke seals 42a
and 42b are preferably resilient members that are constructed of
rubber or the like. Of course, it will be apparent to those skilled
in the art from this disclosure that the seals could be created
from other types of materials, depending upon their shape and
arrangement. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the
art from this disclosure that while the spoke seals 42a and 42b are
illustrated as a pair of separate sealing members, the spoke seals
42a and 42b can be formed as a one-piece, unitary member.
[0067] In the preferred embodiment, the spoke seals 42a and 42b
also aid in the assembly of the spokes 24 with the hub body 38 and
the rim 26. Specifically, in the preferred embodiments, the seals
42a and 42b are arranged so that they restrain movement of the
spokes 24 within the spoke openings 60a and 60b so that the bent
ends 24b of the spokes 24 stays in the retaining portions 62 of the
spoke openings 60a and 60b.
[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the spoke seal 42a has a
tubular section 80a and a center annular flange 82a. The center
annular flange 82a extends in a circumferential direction about the
tubular section 80a. The center annular flange 82a can either
contact the interior surface of the tubular section 80a or be
spaced from the tubular section 80a. The ends 84a and 86a of the
tubular section 80a are configured to engage a ring member 88a and
an abutment 90a of the inner surface of the hub body 38. Of course,
the particular shape of the ends 84a and 86a will vary depending on
the shape of the hub body 38 and its internal components.
Preferably, ends 84a and 86a of the tubular section 80a are annular
flanges that contact the interior surface of the tubular section
80a to form an isolated area beneath the spoke openings 60a. This
isolated area beneath the spoke openings 60a is a continuous
annular space.
[0069] When the rear hub 22 is assembled, an axial force is applied
to the ends 84a and 86a of the tubular section 80a to form annular
seals therebetween. Accordingly, the spoke seal 42a isolates a
first interior section of the interior passageway 52 from the
reminder of the interior passageway 52. This interior section
formed by the spoke seal 42a is continuous annular first space
located beneath the spoke openings 60a.
[0070] The center annular flange 82a is preferably aligned with a
circumferentially passing through the centers axes C.sub.1 of the
insertion portions 61 of the first spoke openings 60a. Thus, the
center annular flange 82a is positioned to axially separate the two
retaining portions 62 of each of the first spoke openings 60a from
each other. The center annular flange 82a is also positioned to
keep spokes 24 in the retaining portions 62 of the first spoke
openings 60a. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24c of the
spokes 24 are inserted into the insertion portions 61 of the spoke
openings 60a, the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 contact the
center annular flange 82a. The enlarged heads 24c then pushes or
deforms the center annular flange 82a one way or the other so that
the enlarged heads 24c extends into the insertion portions 61 of
the spoke openings 60a. The spokes 24 are then moved or slid into
one of the two retaining portions 62 of each of the spoke openings
60a. The center annular flange 82a will prevent the spokes 24 from
accidentally falling out of the insertion portions 61 of the spoke
openings 60a. Thus, the center annular flange 82a aids in the
assembly of the rear wheel 14. In other words, the center annular
flange 82a must be moved or deformed again before the spokes 24 can
be removed from the spoke openings 60a . For added resiliency, an
annular groove 92a can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of
the center flange 82a.
[0071] Similar to the spoke seal 42a, the spoke seal 42b has a
tubular section 80b and a center annular flange 82b. The center
annular flange 82a extends in a circumferential direction about the
tubular section 80a. Alternatively, the center annular flanges 82a
and 82b of the spoke seals 42a and 42b can each have a pair of
center annular flanges. The ends 84b and 86b of the tubular section
80b are configured to engage a ring member 88b and an abutment 90b
of the inner surface of the hub body 38. Of course, the particular
shape of the ends 84b and 86b will vary depending on the shape of
the hub body 38 and its internal components. Preferably, ends 84b
and 86b of the tubular section 80b are annular flanges that contact
the interior surface of the tubular section 80b to form an isolated
area beneath the spoke openings 60b. This isolated area beneath the
spoke openings 60b is a continuous annular space.
[0072] When the rear hub 22 is assembled, an axial force is applied
to the ends 84b and 86b of the tubular section 80b to form annular
seals therebetween. Accordingly, the spoke seal 42b isolates a
second interior section of the interior passageway 52 from the
reminder of the interior passageway 52. This interior section
formed by the spoke seal 42b is continuous annular second space
located beneath the spoke openings 60b.
[0073] Similar to the center annular flange 82a, the center annular
flange 82b is preferably aligned with a circumferentially passing
through the centers axes C.sub.1 of the insertion portions 61 of
the second spoke openings 60b. Thus, the center annular flange 82b
is positioned to axially separate the two retaining portions 62 of
each of the second spoke openings 60b from each other. The center
annular flange 82b is also positioned to keep spokes 24 in the
retaining portions 62 of the second spoke openings 60b.
Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 are
inserted into the insertion portions 61 of the spoke openings 60b,
the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 contact the center annular
flange 82b. The enlarged heads 24c then pushes or deforms the
center annular flange 82b one way or the other so that the enlarged
heads 24c extends into the insertion portions 61 of the spoke
openings 60b. The spokes 24 are then moved or slid into one of the
two retaining portions 62 of each of the spoke openings 60b. The
center annular flange 82b will prevent the spokes 24 from
accidentally falling out of the insertion portions 61 of the spoke
openings 60b. Thus, the center annular flange 82b aids in the
assembly of the rear wheel 14. In other words, the center annular
flange 82b must be moved or deformed again before the spokes 24 can
be removed from the spoke openings 60b. For added resiliency, an
annular groove 92b can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of
the center flange 82b.
[0074] The freewheels, such as the freewheel 44, are well known in
the bicycle art, and thus, the freewheel 44 will not be illustrated
or discussed in detail herein. The freewheel 44 is used to transmit
a driving force from the chain to the rear bicycle wheel in one
rotation direction only. The freewheel 44 allows the bicycle 10 to
advance freely without any rotation of the pedals. The freewheel 44
is fastened to the rear hub 22 as integral part of the rear hub 22
in a conventional manner. The freewheel 44 has an outer tubular
part 94, an inner tubular part 96 and a one-way clutch 98. The
inner tubular part 96 is installed radially inwardly of the outer
tubular part 94 so that the inner tubular part 96 is free to rotate
relative to the outer tubular part 94. The one-way clutch 98 is
installed between the outer tubular part 94 and inner tubular part
96 for transmitting the driving force from the outer tubular part
94 to the inner tubular part 96 in one rotational direction only.
The outer tubular part 94 has a plurality of gears or sprockets
(not shown) mounted thereon, while the inner tubular part 96 is
usually mounted on the hub axle 36.
FRONT HUB 22'
[0075] Turning now to FIGS. 15 and 16, the front hub 22' is
illustrated in accordance with the present invention. The front hub
22' is substantially the same as the rear hub 22, except that the
front hub 22' does not have a freewheel and the spoke openings 60a'
and 60b' are angled in the opposite direction from spoke openings
60a and 60b of the rear hub 22. Moreover, the front hub 22' is used
with spokes 24 and rim 26 discussed above. Since the front hub 22'
is substantially the same as the rear hub 22, the front hub 22'
will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein.
[0076] The front hub 22' basically includes a hub axle 36', a hub
body or shell 38', a first bearing assembly 40a', a second bearing
assembly 40b', a first spoke seal 42a', a second spoke seal 42b'
and a quick release mechanism 46'. Of the parts of front hub 22',
only the hub body 38' and the first and second spoke seals 42a' and
42b' are non-conventional parts. The remaining parts of front hub
22' are relatively conventional, and thus, the remaining parts of
front hub 22' will not be discussed or illustrated in detail
herein.
[0077] The hub axle 36' has a center axis A extending between a
first end 36a' and a second end 36b'. The quick release mechanism
46' extends through a center bore 36c' of the hub axle 36' such
that the quick release mechanism 46' is coupled to the hub axle 36'
in a conventional manner. The first and second ends 36a' and 36b'
of the hub axle 36' are threaded for receiving a pair of nuts 50a'
and 50b' that applies an axial force on the hub body 38', the
bearing assemblies 40a' and 40b' and the spoke seals 42a' and 42b'.
First and second bearing assemblies 40a' and 40b' rotatably mount
the hub body 38' on the hub axle 36'.
[0078] The hub body 38' is illustrated in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the hub
body 38' is a hollow member that defines an interior passageway 52'
with the hub axle 36' being rotatably supported therein by the
first and second bearing assemblies 40a' and 40b'. Thus, the hub
body 38' is a substantially tubular member. Specifically, the hub
body 38' has a center tubular portion 38c' with first and second
end sections 38a' and 38b' being integral formed with the center
tubular portion 38c' as a one-piece, unitary member. The first end
section 38a' has an integrally mounted brake rotor attachment
portion 38d'.
[0079] A set of first spoke openings 60a' are provided at the first
end section 38a' of the hub body 38' for receiving the bent ends
24b of the spokes 24. Similarly, the second end section 38b' of the
hub body 38' is provided with a second set of spoke openings 60b'
for receiving the bent ends 24b of the spokes 24. In the
illustrated embodiment, the first end section 38a' is provided with
nine of the first spoke openings 60a' and the second end section
38b' is provided with nine of the second spoke openings 60b'. The
spoke openings 60a' and 60b' are equally spaced apart about the
circumference of the hub body 38'. Each of the spoke openings 60a'
and 60b' are also designed to receive two spokes 24 as explained
below. Accordingly, the front hub 22' is designed to have
thirty-six spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally
tangential direction.
[0080] Preferably, the first and second sets of spoke openings 60a'
and 60b' are identical. The first and second spoke openings 60a'
and 60b' are designed to be used with conventional tangential
spokes 24. Of course, it is possible that the first and second sets
of spoke openings 60a' and 60b' can be different such that
tangential spokes 24 are used in one end of the hub body 38' and a
different types of spokes are used in the other end of the hub body
38'. The first spoke openings 60a' are circumferentially arranged
around the hub body 38' adjacent to the brake rotor attachment
portion 38d'. Preferably, the first spoke openings 60a' are spaced
axially inward of the brake rotor attachment portion 38d' so that
brake disc rotor 32' can be easily attached with the bolts 32a' and
nuts 32b'.
[0081] In this embodiment, the first and second spoke openings 60a'
and 60b' are elongated slots that are each provided with an
insertion portion 61 ' and a pair of retaining portions 62'.
Accordingly, each of the spoke openings 60a' and 60b' is designed
to have a pair of spokes 24 retained therein with the spokes 24
extending in opposite directions.
[0082] The insertion portion 61' of each spoke opening is located
between the pair of retaining portions 62' of each spoke opening.
Each insertion portion 61' is formed by a pair of opposed curved
surfaces 64' that are spaced apart so as to be equal to or slightly
larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads 24c of
the spokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24b with enlarged
heads 24c) of the spokes 24 can be easily inserted into the spoke
openings 60a' and 60b' through the insertion portions 61'.
[0083] The retaining portions 62' have smaller widths or diameters
than the insertion portions 61'. More specifically, the diameters
or widths of the retaining portions 62' are smaller than the
diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 so
as to retain the spokes 24 within the spoke openings 60a' and 60b'.
The retaining portions 62' are each preferably defined by a partial
cylindrical surface 66' that is connected to the curved surfaces
64' of the associated insertion portion 61 ' by a pair of straight
surfaces 68'.
[0084] The spoke openings 60a' and 60b' are formed elongated slots
that are angled relative to the axis A'. Accordingly, the insertion
portions 61' are arranged in a circumferential pattern with one set
of the retaining portions 62' being located axially outward from
the insertion portions 61' and the other set of retaining portions
62' being spaced axially inward from the insertion portions 61'. In
other words, a first set of retaining portions 62' form an outer
circumferential row of the retaining portions 62', and a second set
of the retaining portions 62' form an inner circumferential row of
retaining portions 62' with the insertion portions 61 ' being
located between the rows of retaining portions 62'.
[0085] Preferably, the insertion portion 61' and the retaining
portions 62' of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also
preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retaining portions 62'
of the spoke openings 60a' and 60b' are tapered to avoid sharp
edges engaging the spokes 24.
[0086] Each of the insertion portions 61' has a center longitudinal
axis C.sub.1' that passes through the center axis A' of the hub
axle 36'. The retaining portions 62', on the other hand, have
center longitudinal axes C.sub.2' that are parallel to the center
longitudinal axis C.sub.1' of the insertion portion 61' for each of
the spoke openings 60a' and 60b'. Thus, the center longitudinal
axes C.sub.2' of the retaining portions 62' do not pass through the
center axis of the hub axle 36'. Rather, the center longitudinal
axes C.sub.2' of the retaining portions 62' are angled with respect
to center axis A'. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis
C.sub.2' of each retaining portion 62' is angled between about
5.degree. and about 20.degree. from a radial orientation in the hub
body 38'. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining portions 62'
are angled about 10.degree. with respect to center axis A for a
twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a
diameter approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim
with thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter
approximately 22 millimeters, the retaining portions 62' are
preferably angled about 11.degree. with respect to center axis A'.
This angled configuration of the retaining portions 62' results in
the straight sections 24a of the spokes 24 being easily arranged in
a tangential direction relative to an imaginary circle centered on
the hub body 38'. Moreover, this angled configuration of the
retaining portions 62' allows the straight sections 24a of the
spokes 24 to be easily aligned with the spoke holes 34 of the rim
26 without significant bending of the spokes 24. In the illustrated
embodiment, the spokes 24 are not bent more than about five
degrees.
[0087] If the retaining portions 62' were formed with their center
axis passing through the center axis A of the hub axle 36', then
the conventional spokes 24 would be placed under excessive bending
forces, which could result in the spokes 24 breaking during use of
the wheel. In particular, if the retaining portions 62' have their
center axes passing through the center of the hub axle 36', then
the center straight section 24a would have to be bent from
95.degree. to 108.degree. for a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six
spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22
millimeters. In contrast, with the retaining portions 62' of the
spokes 24 being angled, the amount of bending of the spokes 24 can
be reduced and/or eliminated.
[0088] The brake rotor attachment portion 38d' is integrally formed
with the center tubular portion 38c' of the hub body 38' as a
one-piece, unitary member. In the illustrated embodiment, the brake
rotor attachment portion 38d' is formed with six attachment members
or points with through bores 70'. While six individual attachment
points are illustrated, it will be apparent to those skilled in the
art from this disclosure that fewer or more attachment points can
be utilized. Moreover, it will be apparent to those skilled in the
art from this disclosure that the attachment portions could be a
continuous flange, if needed and/or desired. The through bore 70'
can be threaded or unthreaded. By using through bores 70' instead
of blind bores, the front hub 22' can be easily manufactured at a
relatively lower cost.
[0089] In the case of unthreaded through bores 70', the bolts 32a'
extend into openings in the brake disc rotor 32' and then through
the through bores 70'. The free ends of the bolts 32a' have nuts
32b' threaded thereon for attaching the brake disc rotor 32' to the
hub body 38'. This arrangement allows the hub body 38' and the
brake rotor attachment portion 38d' to be formed out of the same a
lightweight material, such as aluminum. Moreover, the hub body 38'
does not need to be replaced if the through bores 70' become
damaged.
[0090] In the case of threaded through bores 70', the bolts 32a'
extend into openings in the brake disc rotor 32' and then threaded
into the through bores 70'. Optionally, the free ends of the bolts
32a' can have the nuts 32b' threaded thereon for more securely
attaching the brake disc rotor 32' to the hub body 38'. In this
arrangement, if the threads of through bores 70' become damaged,
the hub body 38' does not need to be replaced. Rather, the bolts
32a' and the nuts 32b' securely attach the brake disc rotor 32' to
the hub body 38'.
[0091] Bearing assemblies 40a' and 40b' rotatably supports hub body
38' on hub axle 36'. The bearing assembly 40a' basically includes a
plurality of balls 74a' located between an inner race member 76a'
and an outer race member 78a'. Similarly, the bearing assembly 40b'
basically includes a plurality of balls 74b' located between an
inner race member 76b' and an outer race member 78b'. Since bearing
assemblies 40a' and 40b' are well know in the bicycle art, they
will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein.
[0092] Turning now to FIGS. 17 and 18, the spoke seals 42a' and
42b' are arranged in the interior passageway 52' of the hub body
38' so as to be adjacent the spoke openings 60a' and 60b' to
isolate the spoke openings 60a' and 60b' from the hub axle 36. In
other words, the spoke seals 42a' and 42b' prevent contaminants
from entering the front hub 22' through the spoke openings 60a' and
60b'. The spoke seals 42a' and 42b' are preferably resilient
members that are constructed of rubber or the like. Of course, it
will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure
that the seals could be created from other types of materials,
depending upon their shape and arrangement. Moreover, it will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that
while the spoke seals 42a' and 42b' are illustrated as a pair of
separate sealing members, the spoke seals 42a' and 42b' can be
formed as a one-piece, unitary member.
[0093] In the preferred embodiment, the spoke seals 42a' and 42b'
also aid in the assembly of the spokes 24 with the hub body 38' and
the rim 26. Specifically, in the preferred embodiments, the seals
42a' and 42b' are arranged so that they restrain movement of the
spokes 24 within the spoke openings 60a' and 60b' so that the bent
ends 24b of the spokes 24 stays in the retaining portions 62' of
the spoke openings 60a' and 60b'.
[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the spoke seal 42a' has a
tubular section 80a' and a center annular flange 82a'. The center
annular flange 82a' extends in a circumferential direction about
the tubular section 80a'. The ends 84a' and 86a' of the tubular
section 80a' are configured to engage a ring member 88a' and an
abutment 90a' of the inner surface of the hub body 38'. Of course,
the particular shape of the ends 84a' and 86a' will vary depending
on the shape of the hub body 38' and its internal components. In
other words, the spoke seal 42a' functions the same way as the
spoke seal 42a of the rear hub 22, but has a slightly modified ends
84a' and 86a' to accommodate front hub 22'.
[0095] When the front hub 22' is assembled, an axial force is
applied to the ends 84a' and 86a' of the tubular section 80a' to
form annular seals therebetween. Accordingly, the spoke seal 42a'
isolates a first interior section of the interior passageway 52'
from the reminder of the interior passageway 52'. This interior
section formed by the spoke seal 42a' is continuous annular first
space located beneath the spoke openings 60a'.
[0096] The center annular flange 82a' is preferably aligned with a
circumferentially passing through the centers axes C.sub.1' of the
insertion portions 61 ' of the first spoke openings 60a'. Thus, the
center annular flange 82a' is positioned to axially separate the
two retaining portions 62' of each of the first spoke openings 60a'
from each other. The center annular flange 82a' is also positioned
to keep spokes 24 in the retaining portions 62' of the first spoke
openings 60a'. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24c of the
spokes 24 are inserted into the insertion portions 61 of the spoke
openings 60a', the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 contact the
center annular flange 82a'. The enlarged heads 24c then pushes or
deforms the center annular flange 82a' one way or the other so that
the enlarged heads 24c extends into the insertion portions 61' of
the spoke openings 60a'. The spokes 24 are then moved or slid into
one of the two retaining portions 62' of each of the spoke openings
60a. The center annular flange 82a' will prevent the spokes 24 from
accidentally falling out of the insertion portions 61' of the spoke
openings 60a'. Thus, the center annular flange 82a' aids in the
assembly of the front wheel 16. In other words, the center annular
flange 82a' must be moved or deformed again before the spokes 24
can be removed from the spoke openings 60a'. For added resiliency,
an annular groove 92a' can be formed in the outer peripheral
surface of the center flange 82a'.
[0097] Similar to the spoke seal 42a', the spoke seal 42b' has a
tubular section 80b' and a center annular flange 82b'. The center
annular flange 82a' extends in a circumferential direction about
the tubular section 80a'. Alternatively, the center annular flanges
82a' and 82b' of the spoke seals 42a' and 42b' can each have a pair
of center annular flanges. The ends 84b' and 86b' of the tubular
section 80b' are configured to engage a ring member 88b' and an
abutment 90b' of the inner surface of the hub body 38'. Of course,
the particular shape of the ends 84b' and 86b' will vary depending
on the shape of the hub body 38' and its internal components. When
the front hub 22' is assembled, an axial force is applied to the
ends 84b' and 86b' of the tubular section 80b' to form annular
seals therebetween. Accordingly, the spoke seal 42b' isolates a
second interior section of the interior passageway 52' from the
reminder of the interior passageway 52'. This interior section
formed by the spoke seal 42b' is continuous annular second space
located beneath the spoke openings 60b'.
[0098] Similar to the center annular flange 82a', the center
annular flange 82b' is preferably aligned with a circumferentially
passing through the centers axes C.sub.1 of the insertion portions
61' of the second spoke openings 60b'. Thus, the center annular
flange 82b' is positioned to axially separate the two retaining
portions 62' of each of the second spoke openings 60b' from each
other. The center annular flange 82b' is also positioned to keep
spokes 24 in the retaining portions 62' of the second spoke
openings 60b'. Accordingly, when the enlarged heads 24c of the
spokes 24 are inserted into the insertion portions 61' of the spoke
openings 60b', the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 contact the
center annular flange 82b'. The enlarged heads 24c then pushes or
deforms the center annular flange 82b' one way or the other so that
the enlarged heads 24c extends into the insertion portions 61' of
the spoke openings 60b'. The spokes 24 are then moved or slid into
one of the two retaining portions 62 of each of the spoke openings
60b'. The center annular flange 82b' will prevent the spokes 24
from accidentally falling out of the insertion portions 61' of the
spoke openings 60b'. Thus, the center annular flange 82b' aids in
the assembly of the front wheel 16. In other words, the center
annular flange 82b' must be moved or deformed again before the
spokes 24 can be removed from the spoke openings 60b'. For added
resiliency, an annular groove 92b' can be formed in the outer
peripheral surface of the center flange 82b'.
SPOKE OPENING COVERS
[0099] As seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, a spoke opening cover 100 in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is
illustrated for use with the front hub 22' of FIGS. 15 and 16. Of
course, the spoke opening cover 100 can be used with the rear hub
22 of FIGS. 4 and 5 by turning the spoke opening cover 100 inside
out to reverse the direction of the slits 102. Although for
purposes of brevity, the spoke opening cover 100 will only be
illustrated with the front hub 22'.
[0100] The spoke opening cover 100 is used to limit or prevent
contaminants from entering the hub body 38 or 38' via the spoke
openings 60a, 60a' or 60b, 60b', respectively. The spoke opening
cover 100 can be used instead of the spoke seals 42a, 42a' and 42b,
42b', or in conjunction with the spoke seals 42a, 42a' and 42b,
42b'. The spoke opening cover 100 basically has a resilient tubular
body 101 constructed from a flexible material such as rubber. The
spoke opening cover 100 has a plurality of slits 102 spaced
circumferential around the tubular body 101. The tubular body 101
of the spoke opening cover 100 is configured and dimensioned to
snugly fit around the bicycle hub 22' so that the spoke openings
are aligned with the slits. The spoke opening cover 100 is
installed on each end of the hub body 38' prior to installation of
spokes 24. Since this embodiment is used with the bicycle hubs 22
and 22', the slits 102 extend diagonally relative a center axis of
the tubular body. The slits 102 have enlarged openings 104 at each
end. The enlarged openings 104 align with the retaining portions
62' of the spoke openings 60a' or 60b', while the center sections
of the slits 102 overlie the insertion portions 61' of the spoke
openings 60a' or 60b'. Also, the center sections of the slits 102
hold the spokes 24 in the retaining portions 62' to aid in the
assembly of the wheel.
[0101] As seen in FIGS. 21 and 22, a spoke opening cover 100' in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention is
illustrated for use with the bicycle either the rear hub 22 of
FIGS. 4 and 5 or the front hub 22' of FIGS. 15 and 16. Although for
purposes of brevity, the spoke opening cover 100' will only be
illustrated with the front hub 22'.
[0102] The spoke opening cover 100' is used to limit or prevent
contaminants from entering the hub body 38 or 38' via the spoke
openings 60a, 60a' or 60b, 60b', respectively. The spoke opening
cover 100' can be used instead of the spoke seals 42a, 42a' and
42b, 42b', or in conjunction with the spoke seals 42a, 42a' and
42b, 42b'. In this embodiment, the spoke opening cover 100' is a
thin flexible strip or body portion 101 ' having a first end 102'
and a second end 104' with a predetermined length therebetween. The
first end 102' is provided with a first protrusion 106', while the
second end 104' is provided with a second protrusion 108'. The
first and second protrusions 106' and 108' are configured and
dimensioned to be frictionally retained with the insertion portions
61' of the spoke openings 60a' or 60b'. Accordingly, the first and
second protrusions 106' and 108' have predetermined widths or
diameters that are larger that a width of an enlarged head 24c of a
spoke 24. Preferably, the body portion 101' has a predetermined
width that is larger that the widths or diameters of the enlarged
heads 24c of the spokes 24. In other words, the body portion 101'
of the spoke opening cover 100' has a predetermined width that is
larger than a width of insertion portions 61' of the spoke openings
60a' or 60b'. The spoke opening cover 100' is designed to be
installed on each end of the hub body 38' after the spokes 24 have
been installed into the spoke openings 60a' and 60b'.
[0103] As seen in FIGS. 23-25, a spoke opening cover 100" in
accordance with another alternate embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated for use with the bicycle either the rear
hub 22 of FIGS. 4 and 5 or the front hub 22' of FIGS. 15 and 16.
Although for purposes of brevity, the spoke opening cover 100" will
only be illustrated with the front hub 22'.
[0104] The spoke opening cover 100" is used to limit or prevent
contaminants from entering the hub body 38 or 38' via the spoke
openings 60a, 60a' or 60b, 60b', respectively. The spoke opening
cover 100" can be used instead of the spoke seals 42a, 42a' and
42b, 42b', or in conjunction with the spoke seals 42a, 42a' and
42b, 42b'. In this embodiment, the spoke opening cover 100" is a
thin flexible strip or body portion 101" having a first end 102"
and a second end 104" with a predetermined length therebetween.
[0105] The first end 102" is provided with a tubular connector
106", while the second end 104" is provided with a mating connector
108". The tubular connector 106" is a protrusion that is configured
and dimensioned to be received in one of the insertion portions 61'
of the spoke openings 60a' or 60b'. The mating connector 108' is a
split protrusion in the form of a resilient detent. The second end
104" is configured and dimensioned to overlap the first end 102"
with mating connector 108" being retained in the bore of tubular
protrusion 106" via a snap-fit. The length of body portion 101"
should be such that spoke opening cover 100" snugly fits around the
hub body 38' when the detent 108" is snap-fitted into the tubular
protrusion 106".
[0106] Preferably, the body portion 101" has a predetermined width
that is larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged heads
24c of the spokes 24. In other words, the body portion 101" of the
spoke opening cover 100" has a predetermined width that is larger
than a width of insertion portions 61' of the spoke openings 60a'
or 60b'. The spoke opening cover 100" is designed to be installed
on each end of the hub body 38' after the spokes 24 have been
installed into the spoke openings 60a' and 60b'.
SECOND EMBODIMENT
[0107] Referring now to FIGS. 26-29, bicycle rear and front hubs
122 and 122' are illustrated in accordance with a second embodiment
of the present invention. The rear and front hubs 122 and 122' of
this second embodiment are substantially the same as the first
embodiment, except that the spoke hole openings 60a, 60a' and 60b,
60b' of the first embodiment have been replaced with modified spoke
openings 160a, 160a' and 160b, 160b' that each receive a single
spoke as explained below. Since the rear and front hubs 122 and
122' are substantially the same as the rear and front hubs 22 and
22' of the first embodiment, this embodiment will not be discussed
or illustrated in detail herein.
[0108] Referring to FIGS. 26 and 27, the rear hub 122 basically
includes a hub axle 136, a hub body 138, a first bearing assembly
140a, a second bearing assembly 140b, a first spoke seal 142a, a
second spoke seal 142b, a freewheel 144 and a quick release
mechanism 146. The hub axle 136 has a center axis A extending
between a first end 136a and a second end 136b.
[0109] The quick release mechanism 146 extends through a center
bore 136c of the hub axle 136 such that the quick release mechanism
146 is coupled to the hub axle 136 in a conventional manner. The
first and second ends 136a and 136b of the hub axle 136 are
threaded for receiving a pair of nuts 150a and 150b that applies an
axial force on the hub body 138, the bearing assemblies 140a and
140b, the spoke seals 142a and 142b, and the freewheel 144. First
and second bearing assemblies 140a and 140b rotatably mount the hub
body 138 with the freewheel 144 on the hub axle 136. The freewheel
144 allows the hub axle 136 to rotate freely relative to the hub
body 138 in one direction, but fixedly couples the hub axle 136
relative to the hub body 138 in the opposite rotational
direction.
[0110] A set of first spoke openings 160a are provided at the first
end section 138a of the hub body 138 for receiving the bent ends
24b of the spokes 24. Similarly, the second end section 138b of the
hub body 138 is provided with a second set of spoke openings 160b
for receiving the bent ends 24b of the spokes 24. In the
illustrated embodiment, the first end section 138a is provided with
eighteen of the first spoke openings 160a and the second end
section 138b is provided with eighteen of the second spoke openings
160b. The spoke openings 160a and 160b are grouped into pairs that
are equally spaced apart about the circumference of the hub body
138. Accordingly, the rear hub 122 is designed to have thirty-six
spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally tangential
direction.
[0111] Preferably, the first and second sets of spoke openings 160a
and 160b are arranged identical. The first and second spoke
openings 160a and 160b are designed to be used with conventional
tangential spokes 24. Of course, it is possible that the first and
second sets of spoke openings 160a and 160b can be different such
that tangential spokes 24 are used in one end of the hub body 138
and a different types of spokes are used in the other end of the
hub body 138. The first spoke openings 160a are circumferentially
arranged around the hub body 138 adjacent to the brake rotor
attachment portion 138d. Preferably, the first spoke openings 160a
are spaced axially inward of the brake rotor attachment portion
138d so that brake disc rotor 132 can be easily attached with the
bolts 132a and nuts 132b.
[0112] In this embodiment, the spoke openings 160a and 160b are
arranged to form two circumferential rows of spoke openings 160a at
end section 138a and two circumferential rows of spoke openings
160b at end section 138b. Each of the spoke openings 160a and 160b
has an insertion portion 161 and a retaining portion 162. Adjacent
pairs of the spoke openings 160a and 160b are oriented in opposite
directions so that the spokes 24 extend in generally opposite
directions from the hub body 138.
[0113] Each insertion portion 161 is formed by a curved or partial
cylindrical surface 164 that has a width or diameter that is equal
to or slightly larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged
heads 24c of the spokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24b
with enlarged heads 24c) of the spokes 24 can be easily inserted
into the spoke openings 160a and 160b through the insertion
portions 161.
[0114] The retaining portions 162 have smaller widths or diameters
than the insertion portions 161. More specifically, the diameters
or widths of the retaining portions 162 are smaller than the
diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 so
as to retain the spokes 24 within the spoke openings 160a and 160b.
The retaining portions 162 are each preferably defined by a partial
cylindrical surface 166 that is connected to the curved surface 164
of the associated insertion portion 161.
[0115] Preferably, the insertion portion 161 and the retaining
portions 162 of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also
preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retaining portions 162
of the spoke openings 160a and 160b are tapered to avoid sharp
edges engaging the spokes 24.
[0116] Similar to the first embodiment, discussed above, each of
the insertion portions 161 has a center longitudinal axis that
passes through the center axis A of the hub axle 136. The retaining
portions 162, on the other hand, have center longitudinal axes that
are parallel to the center longitudinal axis of the associated
insertion portion 161 for each of the spoke openings 160a and 160b.
Thus, the center longitudinal axes of the retaining portions 162 do
not pass through the center axis of the hub axle 136, similar to
the first embodiment. Rather, the center longitudinal axes of the
retaining portions 162 are angled with respect to center axis A.
Preferably, the center longitudinal axis of each retaining portion
162 is angled between about 5.degree. and about 20.degree. from a
radial orientation in the hub body 138. In the illustrated
embodiment, the retaining portions 162 are angled about 10.degree.
with respect to center axis A for a twenty-six inch rim with
thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a diameter approximately 22
millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim with thirty-two spoke holes
and a hub having a diameter approximately 22 millimeters, the
retaining portions 162 are preferably angled about 11.degree. with
respect to center axis A. This angled configuration of the
retaining portions 162 results in the straight sections 24a of the
spokes 24 being easily arranged in a tangential direction relative
to an imaginary circle centered on the hub body 138. Moreover, this
angled configuration of the retaining portions 162 allows the
straight sections 24a of the spokes 24 to be easily aligned with
the spoke holes of the rim without significant bending of the
spokes 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the spokes 24 are not
bent more than about five degrees.
[0117] Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the front hub 122' basically
includes a hub axle 136', a hub body 138', a first bearing assembly
140a', a second bearing assembly 140b', a first spoke seal 142a', a
second spoke seal 142b', and a quick release mechanism 146'. The
hub axle 136' has a center axis A' extending between a first end
136a' and a second end 136b'.
[0118] The quick release mechanism 146' extends through a center
bore 136c' of the hub axle 136' such that the quick release
mechanism 146' is coupled to the hub axle 136' in a conventional
manner. The first and second ends 136a' and 136b' of the hub axle
136' are threaded for receiving a pair of nuts 150a' and 150b' that
applies an axial force on the hub body 138', the bearing assemblies
140a' and 140b' and the spoke seals 142a' and 142b'. First and
second bearing assemblies 140a' and 140b' rotatably mount the hub
body 138' on the hub axle 136'.
[0119] A set of first spoke openings 160a' are provided at the
first end section 138a' of the hub body 138' for receiving the bent
ends 24b of the spokes 24. Similarly, the second end section 138b'
of the hub body 138' is provided with a second set of spoke
openings 160b' for receiving the bent ends 24b of the spokes 24. In
the illustrated embodiment, the first end section 138a' is provided
with eighteen of the first spoke openings 160a' and the second end
section 138b' is provided with eighteen of the second spoke
openings 160b'. The spoke openings 160a' and 160b' are grouped into
pairs that are equally spaced apart about the circumference of the
hub body 138'. Accordingly, the front hub 122' is designed to have
thirty-six spokes extending outwardly therefrom in a generally
tangential direction.
[0120] The first spoke openings 160a' are circumferentially
arranged around the hub body 138' adjacent to the brake rotor
attachment portion 138d'. Preferably, the first spoke openings
160a' are spaced axially inward of the brake rotor attachment
portion 138d' so that brake disc rotor 132' can be easily attached
with the bolts 132a' and nuts 132b'.
[0121] In this embodiment, the spoke openings 160a' and 160b' are
arranged to form two circumferential rows of spoke openings 160a'
at end section 138a' and two circumferential rows of spoke openings
160b' at end section 138b'. Each of the spoke openings 160a' and
160b' has an insertion portion 161' and a retaining portion 162'.
Adjacent pairs of the spoke openings 160a' and 160b' are oriented
in opposite directions so that the spokes 24 extend in generally
opposite directions from the hub body 138'.
[0122] Each insertion portion 161' is formed by a curved or partial
cylindrical surface 164' that has a width or diameter that is equal
to or slightly larger than the widths or diameters of the enlarged
heads 24c of the spokes 24. Thus, the inner ends (bent ends 24b
with enlarged heads 24c) of the spokes 24 can be easily inserted
into the spoke openings 160a' and 160b' through the insertion
portions 161'.
[0123] The retaining portions 162' have smaller widths or diameters
than the insertion portions 161'. More specifically, the diameters
or widths of the retaining portions 162' are smaller than the
diameters or widths of the enlarged heads 24c of the spokes 24 so
as to retain the spokes 24 within the spoke openings 160a' and
160b'. The retaining portions 162' are each preferably defined by a
partial cylindrical surface 166' that is connected to the curved
surface 164' of the associated insertion portion 161'.
[0124] Preferably, the insertion portion 161' and the retaining
portions 162' of each spoke opening are formed simultaneously. Also
preferably, the inner and outer ends of the retaining portions 162'
of the spoke openings 160a' and 160b' are tapered to avoid sharp
edges engaging the spokes 24.
[0125] Similar to the first embodiment, discussed above, each of
the insertion portions 161' has a center longitudinal axis that
passes through the center axis A' of the hub axle 136'. The
retaining portions 162', on the other hand, have center
longitudinal axes that are parallel to the center longitudinal axis
of the associated insertion portion 161' for each of the spoke
openings 160a' and 160b'. Thus, the center longitudinal axes of the
retaining portions 162' do not pass through the center axis of the
hub axle 136', similar to the first embodiment. Rather, the center
longitudinal axes of the retaining portions 162' are angled with
respect to center axis A'. Preferably, the center longitudinal axis
of each retaining portion 162' is angled between about 5.degree.
and about 20.degree. from a radial orientation in the hub body
138'. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining portions 162'
are angled about 10.degree. with respect to center axis A' for a
twenty-six inch rim with thirty-six spoke holes and a hub having a
diameter approximately 22 millimeters. For a twenty-six inch rim
with thirty-two spoke holes and a hub having a diameter
approximately 22 millimeters, the retaining portions 162' are
preferably angled about 11.degree. with respect to center axis A'.
This angled configuration of the retaining portions 162' results in
the straight sections 24a of the spokes 24 being easily arranged in
a tangential direction relative to an imaginary circle centered on
the hub body 138'. Moreover, this angled configuration of the
retaining portions 162' allows the straight sections 24a of the
spokes 24 to be easily aligned with the spoke holes of the rim
without significant bending of the spokes 24. In the illustrated
embodiment, the spokes 24 are not bent more than about five
degrees.
[0126] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to
illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those
skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and
modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope
of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Furthermore,
the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the
present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for
the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended
claims and their equivalents.
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