TWI873110B - Bicycle rims - Google Patents

Abstract

[Topic] To achieve a lightweight bicycle rim (1). [Solution] A tire (200) is mounted on a bicycle rim (1). The bicycle rim (1) comprises: a first annular side surface (3), a second annular side surface (5), a connecting portion (7), and an inner layer member (10, 50). The inner layer member (10, 50) is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface (3), the second annular side surface (5), and the connecting portion (7). The inner layer member (10, 50) comprises at least one of a non-woven fabric and a porous medium.

Description

Bicycle rims

The present invention relates to a bicycle rim.

Patent document 1 discloses a bicycle rim. A tire is mounted on the bicycle rim. The bicycle rim is connected to the hub via a plurality of spokes. Usually, the bicycle rim is formed of a metal material or a non-metal material.

[Prior Art Literature] [Patent Literature]

[Patent document 1] EP2583835A1

Various attempts have been made to reduce the weight of bicycles. For example, bicycle rims are made of metal or non-metal materials with a lower specific gravity to reduce the weight of bicycles. However, bicycle rims must be made even lighter.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a bicycle rim that can achieve lightweight.

In the first embodiment of the present invention, a tire is mounted on a bicycle rim. The bicycle rim has a first annular side surface, a second annular side surface, a connecting portion, and an inner layer member.

The connecting portion connects the first annular side surface portion and the second annular side surface portion in the axial direction of the rotation center axis of the bicycle rim. The inner layer component is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface portion, the second annular side surface portion, and the connecting portion. The inner layer component includes at least one of a non-woven fabric and a porous medium.

In the first type of bicycle rim, since the inner layer member is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion, the bicycle rim can be made lighter. The inner layer member includes at least one of a non-woven fabric and a porous medium, so the bicycle rim can be made even lighter.

The second form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of the first form, wherein the connecting portion is ring-shaped.

In the second type of bicycle rim, even if the connecting portion is formed into a ring shape as described above, the bicycle rim can be made lighter.

The third form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of the first or second form, wherein the inner layer component is arranged at the connecting portion.

In the third type of bicycle rim, by arranging the inner layer member at the connection portion, the connection portion of the bicycle rim can be made lighter.

The fourth form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of any one of the first to third forms, wherein the inner layer member is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface and the first annular side surface.

In the fourth type of bicycle rim, the inner layer member is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface, so that at least one of the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface of the bicycle rim can be reduced in weight.

The fifth form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of any one of the first to fourth forms, wherein at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion comprises a non-metallic material.

In the fifth type of bicycle rim, since at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion includes a non-metal material, at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion can be reduced in weight.

The sixth form of the present invention is a bicycle rim in the fifth form, wherein the non-metallic material is a fiber composite material.

In the sixth type of bicycle rim, since the non-metal material is a fiber composite material, at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion can be made lighter.

The seventh form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of any one of the first to fourth forms, wherein at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion comprises a metal material.

In the seventh type of bicycle rim, since at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion includes a metal material, in addition to ensuring the rigidity of at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion, the bicycle rim can also be made lighter.

The eighth form of the present invention is the bicycle rim of the seventh form, wherein the metal material is aluminum.

In the eighth type of bicycle rim, since the metal material is aluminum, at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion can be made lighter.

The ninth form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of any one of the first to eighth forms, wherein the connecting portion has a curved surface extending between the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface. In this case, a tire is mounted on the curved surface.

In the 9th type of bicycle rim, since the connecting portion has a curved portion, the tire can be easily mounted on the curved portion of the connecting portion.

The tenth form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of any one of the first to eighth forms, wherein the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface each have a retaining portion. In this case, the retaining portion is provided along the outer periphery of the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface to retain the tire.

In the 10th type of bicycle rim, since the first annular side surface portion and the second annular side surface portion each have a retaining portion, the tire can be properly retained.

In the 11th form of the present invention, in the bicycle rim of the 10th form, the retaining portion has a first retaining portion and a second retaining portion. The first retaining portion is arranged on the radially outer side of the first annular side surface portion. The second retaining portion is arranged on the radially outer side of the second annular side surface portion.

The 11th type of bicycle rim can properly hold the tire by the first holding portion of the first annular side surface and the second holding portion of the second annular side surface.

The twelfth form of the present invention is a bicycle rim according to the eleventh form, wherein the inner layer component is arranged on at least one of the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion.

In the twelfth type of bicycle rim, by arranging the inner layer member in at least one of the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion, at least one of the first annular side surface portion and the second annular side surface portion can be reduced in weight.

The 13th form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of the 11th or 12th form, wherein the first retaining portion includes a first retaining surface, and the second retaining portion includes a second retaining surface. In this case, the first retaining surface extends radially outwardly toward the first annular side surface portion. The second retaining surface extends radially outwardly toward the second annular side surface portion.

The 13th type of bicycle rim can properly hold the tire by the first holding surface of the first annular side surface and the second holding surface of the second annular side surface.

The 14th form of the present invention is a bicycle rim of any one of the 11th to 13th forms, wherein the first retaining portion includes a first locking portion, and the second retaining portion includes a second locking portion. In this case, the first locking portion is arranged on the radially outer side of the first annular side surface portion. The second locking portion is arranged on the radially outer side of the second annular side surface portion.

The 14th type of bicycle rim can properly hold the tire by the first locking portion of the first annular side surface and the second locking portion of the second annular side surface.

In the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention, a tire is mounted on a bicycle rim. The bicycle rim has a first annular side surface, a second annular side surface, a connecting portion, and an inner layer member.

The connecting portion connects the first annular side surface portion and the second annular side surface portion in the axial direction of the rotation center axis of the bicycle rim. The inner layer member is arranged inside at least one of the first annular side surface portion, the second annular side surface portion, and the connecting portion.

At least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion includes a contact layer for contacting the inner layer component. The contact layer has a first specific gravity. The inner layer component has a second specific gravity. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is less than 0.1.

In the 15th type bicycle rim, by setting the ratio of the second specific gravity of the inner layer member to the first specific gravity of the contact layer to 0.1 or less, the bicycle rim can be appropriately reduced in weight.

The 16th form of the present invention is a bicycle rim according to the 15th form, wherein the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is less than 0.08.

In the 16th type bicycle rim, by setting the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity to 0.08 or less, the bicycle rim can be more appropriately lightened.

The 17th form of the present invention is a bicycle rim according to the 15th or 16th form, wherein the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is greater than 0.05.

In the 17th type bicycle rim, by setting the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity to 0.05 or more, the bicycle rim can be more appropriately lightened.

The bicycle rim of the present invention can achieve lightweight.

1: Bicycle rims

3: 1st annular lateral face

5: Second annular lateral face

7: Connection part

7a: Curved surface

9: Maintaining part

10,50: Inner components

13: First holding part

13a: 1st locking part

13b: 1st holding surface

15: Second holding unit

15a: Second stopper

15b: Second holding surface

17: The radial outer side of the connection part

30,130:Contact layer

31: 1st outer layer

32: 2nd outer layer

33: 1st inner layer

34: 1st contact layer

35: 1st middle layer

39: Second contact layer

40: Second middle layer

41: 5th outer layer

42: 3rd contact layer

43: 4th contact layer (maintenance layer)

44: 5th contact layer

45: 6th contact layer

47: 7th contact layer

48: 1st corner floor

100:Bicycle wheels

101: Spindle

102: wheel hub

105a: Part 1

105b: Part 2

143: Keep layer

200: Tires

C1: Rotation center axis

S1, S2: Internal space

[Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view of a bicycle wheel according to the first embodiment.

[Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle rim of the first embodiment (cut line II-II in Figure 1).

[Figure 3] Figure 3 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle rim of the first embodiment.

[Figure 4] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle rim of the second embodiment (cut line II-II in Figure 1).

[Figure 5] Figure 5 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle rim of the second embodiment.

[Figure 6] Figure 6 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a bicycle rim according to another embodiment (A).

[Figure 7] Figure 7 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a bicycle rim of another embodiment (B).

<First implementation method>

The structure of the bicycle rim 1 of this embodiment is described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the bicycle rim 1 is connected to the hub 102 via a plurality of spokes 101. The bicycle rim 1 has a rotation center axis C1. The bicycle rim 1 extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1. For example, the bicycle rim 1 is formed into a ring shape. A tire 200 is mounted on the bicycle rim 1. The bicycle wheel 100 is formed by the bicycle rim 1, the plurality of spokes 101, and the hub 102.

As shown in FIG. 2, a bicycle rim 1 comprises: a first annular side portion 3, a second annular side portion 5, a connecting portion 7, and an inner member 10. At least one of the first annular side portion 3, the second annular side portion 5, and the connecting portion 7 comprises a non-metallic material. The non-metallic material is, for example, a fiber composite. The fiber composite is, for example, a combination of a base material, that is, a resin, and a fiber. The fiber is, for example, a carbon fiber, a glass fiber, or an aromatic polyamide fiber. The fiber composite is characterized by being lightweight and having high strength. The fiber composite is, for example, a prepreg. The prepreg is a reinforced plastic molding material. Prepreg material is a thermosetting resin such as epoxy mixed with additives such as hardener or adhesive material, which is uniformly impregnated into a fiber-shaped reinforcing material such as glass cloth or carbon fiber. The prepreg material in this state is semi-cured by heating or drying. The semi-cured prepreg material is stacked by hand to form a shape. At least one of the first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7 contains a metal material. The metal material is, for example, aluminum.

In this embodiment, the first annular side surface 3 and the second annular side surface 5 are respectively made of metal material and non-metal material. The connecting portion 7 is made of non-metal material. The first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7 may be respectively made of metal material. The first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7 may be respectively made of non-metal material.

As shown in FIG. 1, the first annular side surface portion 3 extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1. For example, the first annular side surface portion 3 is formed in an annular shape. The second annular side surface portion 5 extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1. For example, the second annular side surface portion 5 is formed in an annular shape. As shown in FIG. 2, the second annular side surface portion 5 is arranged to be opposite to the first annular side surface portion 3 in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1. The radial inner portion of the rotation center axis C1 of the second annular side surface portion 5 is connected to the radial inner portion of the rotation center axis C1 of the first annular side surface portion 3. The spoke 101 is mounted on the portion where the first annular side surface portion 3 and the second annular side surface portion 5 are connected. In the following, the radial direction indicates the radial direction of the rotation center axis C1. The circumferential direction indicates the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first annular side portion 3 and the second annular side portion 5 each have a retaining portion 9 for retaining the tire 200 and arranged along the outer periphery. The retaining portion 9 is used to retain the radially inner portion of the tire 200. The retaining portion 9 includes a first retaining portion 13 and a second retaining portion 15. The first retaining portion 13 is arranged on the radially outer side of the first annular side portion 3. The second retaining portion 15 is arranged on the radially outer side of the second annular side portion 5. In other words, the retaining portion 9 includes: the first retaining portion 13 arranged on the radially outer side of the first annular side portion 3, and the second retaining portion 15 arranged on the radially outer side of the second annular side portion 5.

The first retaining portion 13 is disposed on the radially outer side of the first annular side portion 3. The first retaining portion 13 includes a first retaining surface 13b extending radially outward of the first annular side portion 3. The first retaining surface 13b can contact the tire 200. The first retaining surface 13b extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1.

The first retaining portion 13 includes a first locking portion 13a. The first locking portion 13a is arranged on the radial outer side of the first annular side portion 3. The first retaining portion 13 includes: the first locking portion 13a arranged on the radial outer side of the first annular side portion 3. The first retaining portion 13 includes: the first locking portion 13a arranged on the radial outer side of the first retaining surface 13b. The first locking portion 13a is used to lock the first portion 105a on the radial inner side of the tire 200 (refer to Figure 3). The first locking portion 13a is used to lock the first portion 105a. The first portion 105a is arranged on the radial inner side of the tire 200. The first portion 105a is also called a tire lip portion. The first locking portion 13a extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1. The first locking portion 13a protrudes toward the second holding portion 15. The first locking portion 13a protrudes parallel to the rotation center axis C1.

The second retaining portion 15 is disposed on the radially outer portion of the second annular side surface portion 5. The second retaining portion 15 includes a second retaining surface 15b extending radially outwardly of the second annular side surface portion 5. The second retaining surface 15b can contact the tire 200. The second retaining surface 15b extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1.

The second retaining portion 15 includes a second locking portion 15a. The second locking portion 15a is arranged on the radial outer side of the second annular side portion 5. The second retaining portion 15 includes: the second locking portion 15a arranged on the radial outer side of the second annular side portion 5. The second retaining portion 15 includes: the second locking portion 15a arranged on the radial outer side of the second retaining surface 15b. The second locking portion 15a is used to lock the second portion 105b on the radial inner side of the tire 200 (refer to Figure 3). The second locking portion 15a is used to lock the second portion 105b. The second portion 105b is set on the radial inner side of the tire 200. The second portion 105b is also called a tire bead portion. The second locking portion 15a extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1. The second locking portion 15a protrudes toward the first holding portion 13. The second locking portion 15a protrudes parallel to the rotation center axis C1.

The second stopper 15a is arranged to be opposite to the first stopper 13a in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1. The first stopper 13a protrudes in the direction of the second stopper 15a. The second stopper 15a protrudes in the direction of the first stopper 13a. In other words, the radially inner portion of the tire 200 is locked by the first stopper 13a and the second stopper 15a. For example, the radially inner portion of the tire 200 is the first portion 105a and the second portion 105b.

As shown in FIG. 2, the connecting portion 7 connects the first annular side surface portion 3 and the second annular side surface portion 5 in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1 of the bicycle rim 1. The connecting portion 7 is annular. In other words, the connecting portion 7 is formed in an annular shape.

As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7 are formed by combining a plurality of components. At least one of the first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7 includes a contact layer 30 for contacting the inner layer component 10. For example, the contact layer includes the first to sixth contact layers 34, 39, 42, 43, 44, and 45 described later. The inner space S1 is formed in the connecting portion 7 by the first to sixth contact layers 34, 39, 42, 43, 44, and 45. The inner layer component 10 is arranged in the inner space S1.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the first annular side surface portion 3 has, for example, a first outer layer 31, a second outer layer 32, a first inner layer 33, and a first contact layer 34. The first outer layer 31 is a metal layer for forming the outer surface of the first annular side surface portion 3. The second outer layer 32 is a non-metal layer for forming the radially outer portion of the first outer layer 31. The first inner layer 33 is a non-metal layer arranged to face the second outer layer 32. The first contact layer 34 is a non-metal layer in contact with the inner member 10.

The first outer layer 31 is formed in an annular shape. The first outer layer 31 is made of, for example, an aluminum alloy. The first outer layer 31 is provided at the radially inner portion of the rotation center axis C1 of the first annular side portion 3. The first outer layer 31 is connected to the third outer layer 36 of the second annular side portion 5 at the radially inner end of the rotation center axis C1 of the first annular side portion 3.

The second outer layer 32 is formed in a ring shape. The second outer layer 32 is provided on the first outer layer 31. The second outer layer 32 is connected to the first outer layer 31. The second outer layer 32 is bonded to the inner surface of the first outer layer 31. For example, the second outer layer 32 is bonded to the inner surface of the first outer layer 31 by an adhesive. The so-called bonding is to stick two things together. The bonding here includes fusion and welding. Fusion is bonding by heat treatment, etc. Welding is bonding by heating. The so-called adhesive is a substance used to connect objects to each other. In the case of prepreg material, the resin contained in the prepreg material flows into the contact surface during molding, so that the contacting parts are bonded to each other. In this case, the resin contained in the prepreg material has the function of an adhesive. The second outer layer 32 is provided on the radially outer side of the rotation center axis C1 of the first annular side portion 3. The second outer layer 32 forms, for example, the outer layer of the first retaining portion 13. The second outer layer 32 is, for example, composed of a fiber composite material. The fiber composite material is, for example, a combination of a base material, that is, a resin, and a fiber. The fiber composite material is characterized by being lightweight and having high strength.

The first inner layer 33 is formed in a ring shape. The first inner layer 33 is made of, for example, a fiber composite material. The first inner layer 33 is, for example, disposed axially inward of the rotation center axis C1 of the first retaining portion 13. The first inner layer 33 forms, for example, the first retaining surface 13b. The first inner layer 33 is arranged to be spaced apart from the second outer layer 32 in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1. The first inner layer 33 is formed integrally with, for example, the second inner layer 38 and the fifth outer layer 41 described later. The first inner layer 33 is connected to the third contact layer 42 described later at a location radially outward of the connecting portion 7. The first inner layer 33 is bonded to the third contact layer 42. For example, the first inner layer 33 is bonded to the third contact layer 42 by an adhesive.

The first contact layer 34 is formed in a ring shape. The first contact layer 34 is made of, for example, a fiber composite material. The first contact layer 34 is connected to the second outer layer 32. The first contact layer 34 is bonded to the inner surface of the second outer layer 32. For example, the first contact layer 34 is bonded to the inner surface of the second outer layer 32 by an adhesive. The first contact layer 34 faces the inner space S1. The first contact layer 34 faces the inner member 10. The first contact layer 34 is in contact with the inner member 10. The first contact layer 34 is bonded to the inner member 10. For example, the first contact layer 34 is bonded to the inner member 10 by an adhesive. The first contact layer 34 extends from the radially inner side of the connecting portion 7 to the first retaining portion 13 of the first annular side surface portion 3.

In the first retaining portion 13 of the first annular side surface portion 3, at least one first intermediate layer 35 is provided between the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42. Here, a plurality of first intermediate layers 35 are provided between the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42. The first intermediate layer 35 is formed in an annular shape. The first intermediate layer 35 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42. For example, the first intermediate layer 35 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42 by an adhesive.

The second annular side surface 5 has, for example, a third outer layer 36, a fourth outer layer 37, a second inner layer 38, and a second contact layer 39. The third outer layer 36 is a metal layer for forming the outer surface of the second annular side surface 5. The fourth outer layer 37 is a non-metal layer for forming the radially outer portion of the third outer layer 36. The second inner layer 38 is a non-metal layer arranged to face the fourth outer layer 37. The second contact layer 39 is a non-metal layer in contact with the inner member 10.

The third outer layer 36 is formed integrally with the first outer layer 31. The third outer layer 36 is formed in an annular shape. The third outer layer 36 is made of, for example, an aluminum alloy. The third outer layer 36 is provided at the radially inner portion of the rotation center axis C1 of the second annular side portion 5. The third outer layer 36 is connected to the first outer layer 31 of the first annular side portion 3 at the radially inner end of the rotation center axis C1 of the second annular side portion 5.

The fourth outer layer 37 is formed in an annular shape. The fourth outer layer 37 is provided on the third outer layer 36. The fourth outer layer 37 is connected to the third outer layer 36. The fourth outer layer 37 is bonded to the inner surface of the third outer layer 36. For example, the fourth outer layer 37 is bonded to the inner surface of the third outer layer 36 by an adhesive. The fourth outer layer 37 is provided on the radially outer side portion of the rotation center axis C1 of the second annular side portion 5. The fourth outer layer 37 forms, for example, the outer layer of the second retaining portion 15. The fourth outer layer 37 is composed of, for example, a fiber composite material.

The second inner layer 38 is formed in a ring shape. The second inner layer 38 is, for example, made of a fiber composite material. The second inner layer 38 is, for example, disposed axially inward of the rotation center axis C1 of the second retaining portion 15. The second inner layer 38 forms, for example, the second retaining surface 15b. The second inner layer 38 is arranged to be spaced apart from the fourth outer layer 37 in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1. The second inner layer 38 is connected to the third contact layer 42 described later at a location radially outward of the connecting portion 7. The second inner layer 38 is bonded to the third contact layer 42. For example, the second inner layer 38 is bonded to the third contact layer 42 by an adhesive.

The second contact layer 39 is formed in a ring shape. The second contact layer 39 is made of, for example, a fiber composite material. The second contact layer 39 is connected to the fourth outer layer 37. The second contact layer 39 is bonded to the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37. For example, the second contact layer 39 is bonded to the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37 by an adhesive. The second contact layer 39 faces the inner space S1. The second contact layer 39 faces the inner member 10. The second contact layer 39 is in contact with the inner member 10. The second contact layer 39 is bonded to the inner member 10. For example, the second contact layer 39 is bonded to the inner member 10 by an adhesive. The second contact layer 39 extends radially inward from the connecting portion 7 to the second retaining portion 15 of the second annular side surface portion 5.

In the second retaining portion 15 of the second annular side surface portion 5, at least one second intermediate layer 40 is provided between the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42. Here, a plurality of second intermediate layers 40 are provided between the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42. The second intermediate layer 40 is formed in an annular shape. The second intermediate layer 40 is bonded to the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42. For example, the second intermediate layer 40 is bonded to the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42 by an adhesive.

As shown in FIG. 3, the connection portion 7 has: a fifth outer layer 41, a third contact layer 42, and a retaining layer 43. The fifth outer layer 41 is a non-metallic layer used to form the outer surface of the connection portion 7. The third contact layer 42 is a non-metallic layer in contact with the inner member 10. The retaining layer 43 is arranged radially inward of the rotation center axis C1 and is spaced apart from the third contact layer 42.

The fifth outer layer 41 is a layer forming the radial outer surface of the rotation center axis C1 of the connection portion 7. The fifth outer layer 41 is formed in an annular shape. The fifth outer layer 41 is composed of, for example, a fiber composite material. The fifth outer layer 41 is formed as a whole with, for example, the first inner layer 33 of the first annular side portion 3. The fifth outer layer 41 is formed as a whole with, for example, the second inner layer 38 of the second annular side portion 5.

The third contact layer 42 is provided on the radially outer side of the rotation center axis C1 of the connection portion 7. The third contact layer 42 contacts the radially outer side of the inner member 10 at the radially inner side of the third contact layer 42. The third contact layer 42 is formed into a ring shape. The third contact layer 42 is composed of, for example, a fiber composite material. The third contact layer 42 is provided on the inner side of the fifth outer layer 41. The third contact layer 42 is bonded to the inner side of the fifth outer layer 41. For example, the third contact layer 42 is bonded to the inner side of the fifth outer layer 41 by an adhesive.

The third contact layer 42 extends from the connecting portion 7 to the first retaining portion 13 of the first annular side surface portion 3. The third contact layer 42 extends from the connecting portion 7 to the second retaining portion 15 of the second annular side surface portion 5. The third contact layer 42 is bonded to the first inner layer 33 of the first retaining portion 13. The third contact layer 42 is bonded to the second inner layer 38 of the second retaining portion 15. For example, the third contact layer 42 is bonded to the first inner layer 33 of the first retaining portion 13 by an adhesive. For example, the third contact layer 42 is bonded to the second inner layer 38 of the second retaining portion 15 by an adhesive.

The third contact layer 42 is described here as a component of the connecting portion 7. However, a part of the third contact layer 42 can also be interpreted as a component of the connecting portion 7, the first retaining portion 13 of the first annular side surface portion 3, and the second retaining portion 15 of the second annular side surface portion 5.

The retaining layer 43 is used to retain the inner member 10. The retaining layer 43 is formed in a ring shape. The retaining layer 43 is in contact with the inner member 10. The retaining layer 43 can also be interpreted as the fourth contact layer 43. The retaining layer 43 is bonded to the inner member 10. For example, the retaining layer 43 is bonded to the inner member 10 by an adhesive. The retaining layer 43 is composed of a fiber composite material, for example. The retaining layer 43 is configured to be spaced apart from the third contact layer 42. The retaining layer 43 is configured to be spaced apart from the third contact layer 42 between the third contact layer 42 and the rotation center axis C1.

The retaining layer 43 is provided on the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39. In the example shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the retaining layer 43 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39. The retaining layer 43 is bonded to the inner side surface of the first contact layer 34 and the inner side surface of the second contact layer 39. For example, the retaining layer 43 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39 by an adhesive. The retaining layer 43 is bonded to the inner side surface of the first contact layer 34 and the inner side surface of the second contact layer 39 by an adhesive.

The fifth contact layer 44 is provided at the corner formed by the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42. The so-called corner is a three-dimensional corner. The fifth contact layer 44 is formed in a ring shape. The fifth contact layer 44 is composed of, for example, a fiber composite material. The fifth contact layer 44 is formed by winding a sheet-like member. The fifth intermediate layer 44 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42. For example, the fifth contact layer 44 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the third contact layer 42 by an adhesive.

The sixth contact layer 45 is provided at the corner formed by the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42. The sixth contact layer 45 is formed in a ring shape. The sixth contact layer 45 is composed of, for example, a fiber composite material. The sixth contact layer 45 is formed by winding a sheet-like member. The sixth intermediate layer 45 is bonded to the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42. For example, the sixth contact layer 45 is bonded to the second contact layer 39 and the third contact layer 42 by an adhesive.

The inner layer member 10 is arranged in at least one of the first annular side surface portion 3, the second annular side surface portion 5, and the connecting portion 7. For example, the inner layer member 10 is arranged inside at least one of the first annular side surface portion 3, the second annular side surface portion 5, and the connecting portion 7.

In this embodiment, an example of arranging the inner member 10 in the connection part 7 is shown. That is, in this embodiment, the inner member 10 is arranged inside the connection part 7. For example, the inner member 10 is arranged in the inner space S1 formed by the first to sixth contact layers 34, 39, 42, 43, 44, 45. The inner member 10 is bonded to the first to sixth contact layers 34, 39, 42, 43, 44, 45. For example, the inner member 10 is bonded to the first to sixth contact layers 34, 39, 42, 43, 44, 45 by an adhesive.

An internal space S1 for arranging the internal member 10 is provided in the connection portion 7. The internal space S1 is formed by the first contact layer 34, the second contact layer 39, the third contact layer 42, and the fourth contact layer 43. In the present embodiment, the internal space S1 is formed by the first contact layer 34, the second contact layer 39, the third contact layer 42, the fourth contact layer 43, the fifth contact layer 44, and the sixth contact layer 45. The internal member 10 is bonded to the third contact layer 42 and the fourth contact layer 43. For example, the inner member 10 is bonded to the third contact layer 42 and the fourth contact layer 43 by an adhesive. The inner member 10 may also be bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39. For example, the inner member 10 is bonded to the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39 by an adhesive. The inner member 10 may also be bonded to the fifth contact layer 44 and the sixth contact layer 45. For example, the inner member 10 may also be bonded to the fifth contact layer 44 and the sixth contact layer 45 by an adhesive.

The inner layer component 10 includes at least one of a non-woven fabric and a porous medium. In the present embodiment, the inner layer component 10 is, for example, a porous medium. The so-called porous medium is a material having many pores. The porous medium includes a foam. The foam is a porous medium formed by generating foam. The porous medium has, for example, an independent bubble structure. The independent bubble structure generally has excellent shock absorption performance. The foam is, for example, a rigid plastic independent bubble foam.

In the bicycle rim 1 having the above structure, the contact layer 30 includes the first to sixth contact layers 34, 39, 42, 43, 44, and 45.

The specific gravity of the inner member 10 is smaller than that of the contact layer 30. The contact layer 30 has a first specific gravity. The inner member 10 has a second specific gravity. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is 0.1 or less. Here, the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is preferably 0.08 or less. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is preferably 0.05 or more. In other words, the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is preferably 0.05 or more and 0.08 or less. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is the value obtained by dividing the second specific gravity by the first specific gravity.

As shown above, the contact layer 30 and the inner member 10 form a sandwich structure. The so-called sandwich structure is a structure in which a core material is sandwiched between two thin plates. The sandwich structure is an integrated structure in which thin plates sandwich a core material. The thin plates have strong tensile and compressive resistance. The core material is a lightweight material. By adopting a sandwich structure, a lightweight and high-rigidity material can be obtained. The sandwich structure is a lightweight structure that can also obtain large bending rigidity. A honeycomb structure can be used as a fine hole.

The radially outer portion of the rotation center axis C1 of the bicycle rim 1 is subjected to a relatively large bending stress. Moreover, the sandwich structure of the connecting portion 7 has a relatively large degree of freedom relative to the thickness of the inner member 10. That is, the radial thickness of the rotation center axis C1 of the connecting portion 7 can be easily thickened. Therefore, the sandwich structure of the connecting portion 7 can easily achieve lightweight and high rigidity of the bicycle rim 1. The bicycle rim 1 of the first embodiment can suppress low rigidity and achieve lightweight.

<Second implementation method>

As shown in FIG. 4, the structure of the second embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment except for the structure of the inner layer member 50. In FIG. 4, the same figure number is used for the same structure as the first embodiment. The following is a detailed description of the structure different from the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the explanation of the common structure with other embodiments also adopts the explanation of other embodiments.

The inner member 50 is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface 3 and the second annular side surface 5. The inner member 50 is arranged on at least one of the first retaining portion 13 of the first annular side surface 3 and the second retaining portion 15 of the second annular side surface 5. The inner member 50 here is, for example, a non-woven fabric. The so-called non-woven fabric is a fabric in which fibers are entangled into a sheet shape rather than woven. The advantage of non-woven fabric compared to porous media is that it has freedom in shape. Non-woven fabric is deformed along the mold when pressure is applied during molding. On the other hand, in the case of porous media, the shape needs to be matched with the mold before molding. In the case where the mold is not matched completely, a gap will be generated between the inner layer components 10, 50, that is, the porous medium and the contact layer 30, 130. In the case of a gap, an adhesive will be used as an auxiliary. If it is a non-woven fabric, this step is not required. Therefore, it is advantageous to use a non-woven fabric as an inner layer component, especially in a portion that does not have a simple shape.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the inner member 50 is arranged inside the first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7. Specifically, the inner member 50 is arranged inside the first retaining portion 13 of the first annular side surface 3, the second retaining portion 15 of the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7. The inner member 50 is arranged inside the retaining portion 9. The inner member 50 is, for example, a nonwoven fabric.

The structures of the first annular side surface 3, the second annular side surface 5, and the connecting portion 7 are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment except for the following points.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39 of the first embodiment are formed into the seventh contact layer 47. The seventh contact layer 47 not only functions as the first contact layer 34 and the second contact layer 39 of the first embodiment, but also functions as the fourth contact layer 43 of the first embodiment. In other words, the seventh contact layer 47 has the functions of the first contact layer 34, the second contact layer 39, and the fourth contact layer 43 of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the contact layer 130 includes: the seventh contact layer 47 and the third contact layer 42. Specifically, the contact layer 130 includes: the seventh contact layer 47, the third contact layer 42, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40.

The structure of the holding layer 143 is substantially the same as the holding layer 43 of the first embodiment, except that it does not function as a contact layer. The holding layer 143 is used to hold the inner member 50. The holding layer 143 is formed in a ring shape. The holding layer 143 is composed of a fiber composite material, for example. The holding layer 143 is arranged between the third contact layer 42 and the rotation center axis C1, and is spaced apart from the third contact layer 42.

The retaining layer 143 is provided on the second outer layer 32 and the fourth outer layer 37. In the example shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the retaining layer 143 is bonded to the second outer layer 32 and the fourth outer layer 37. The retaining layer 143 is bonded to the inner surface of the second outer layer 32 and the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37. For example, the retaining layer 143 is bonded to the second outer layer 32 and the fourth outer layer 37 by an adhesive. The retaining layer 143 is bonded to the inner surface of the second outer layer 32 and the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37 by an adhesive.

The first corner layer 48 is provided at the corner formed by the seventh contact layer 47 and the second outer layer 32. The so-called corner is a three-dimensional corner. The first corner layer 48 is surrounded by the second outer layer 32, the seventh contact layer 47 and the retaining layer 143. The first corner layer 48 is formed in a ring shape. The first corner layer 48 is composed of a fiber composite material, for example. The first corner layer 48 is formed by winding a sheet-like member. The first corner layer 48 is bonded to the second outer layer 32, the retaining layer 143 and the seventh contact layer 47. For example, the first corner layer 48 is bonded to the second outer layer 32, the retaining layer 143 and the seventh contact layer 47 by an adhesive.

The second corner layer 49 is provided at the corner formed by the seventh contact layer 47 and the fourth outer layer 37. The second corner layer 49 is surrounded by the fourth outer layer 37, the seventh contact layer 47 and the retaining layer 143. The second corner layer 49 is formed in a ring shape. The second corner layer 49 is composed of, for example, a fiber composite material. The second corner layer 49 is formed by winding a sheet-like member. The second corner layer 49 is bonded to the fourth outer layer 37, the retaining layer 143 and the seventh contact layer 47. For example, the second corner layer 49 is bonded to the fourth outer layer 37, the retaining layer 143 and the seventh contact layer 47 by an adhesive.

The 7th contact layer 47 is formed in a ring shape. The 7th contact layer 47 contacts the inner member 50. The 7th contact layer 47 is bonded to the inner member 50. For example, the 7th contact layer 47 is bonded to the inner member 50 by an adhesive. The 7th contact layer 47 is composed of a fiber composite material, for example. The 7th contact layer 47 is arranged to be spaced apart from the 3rd contact layer 42. The 7th contact layer 47 is arranged to be spaced apart from the 3rd contact layer 42 between the 3rd contact layer 42 and the rotation center axis C1.

The seventh contact layer 47 is provided on the retaining layer 143, the second outer layer 32, and the fourth outer layer 37. In the example shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the retaining layer 143, the second outer layer 32, and the fourth outer layer 37. For example, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the outer surface of the retaining layer 143, the inner surface of the second outer layer 32, and the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37. For example, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the retaining layer 143, the second outer layer 32, and the fourth outer layer 37 by an adhesive. For example, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the outer surface of the retaining layer 143, the inner surface of the second outer layer 32, and the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37 by an adhesive.

Specifically, the seventh contact layer 47 is provided on: the retaining layer 143, the second outer layer 32, the fourth outer layer 37, the first corner layer 48, and the second corner layer 49. In the example shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to: the retaining layer 143, the second outer layer 32, the fourth outer layer 37, the first corner layer 48, and the second corner layer 49. For example, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the outer surface of the retaining layer 143, the inner surface of the second outer layer 32, the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37, the outer surface of the first corner layer 48, and the outer surface of the second corner layer 49. For example, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the retaining layer 143, the second outer layer 32, the fourth outer layer 37, the first corner layer 48, and the second corner layer 49 by an adhesive. For example, the seventh contact layer 47 is bonded to the outer surface of the retaining layer 143, the inner surface of the second outer layer 32, the inner surface of the fourth outer layer 37, the outer surface of the first corner layer 48, and the outer surface of the second corner layer 49 by an adhesive.

In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the inner member 50 is arranged in the first holding portion 13 of the first annular side surface portion 3, the second holding portion 15 of the second annular side surface portion 5, and the connecting portion 7. That is, in this embodiment, the inner member 50 is arranged inside the connecting portion 7, the first holding portion 13, and the second holding portion 15. For example, the inner member 50 is arranged in the inner space S2 formed by the third contact layer 42, the seventh contact layer 47, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40. The inner member 50 is bonded to the third contact layer 42, the seventh contact layer 47, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40. For example, the inner layer component 50 is bonded to the third contact layer 42, the seventh contact layer 47, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40 by an adhesive.

The inner space S2 for arranging the inner member 50 is provided in the first holding portion 13 of the first annular side surface portion 3, the second holding portion 15 of the second annular side surface portion 5, and the connecting portion 7. The inner space S2 is formed by the third contact layer 42 and the seventh contact layer 47. The inner member 50 is bonded to the third contact layer 42 and the seventh contact layer 47. For example, the inner member 50 is bonded to the third contact layer 42 and the seventh contact layer 47 by an adhesive. The inner member 50 may also be bonded to the first intermediate layer 35 and the second intermediate layer 40. For example, the inner layer component 50 may be bonded to the first intermediate layer 35 and the second intermediate layer 40 by an adhesive.

Specifically, the inner space S2 is formed by the third contact layer 42, the seventh contact layer 47, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40. For example, the inner layer member 50 is bonded to the third contact layer 42, the seventh contact layer 47, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40 by an adhesive.

The inner layer component 50 includes at least one of a non-woven fabric and a porous medium. Here is an example showing the case where the inner layer component 50 is a non-woven fabric. The non-woven fabric can be a single sheet of non-woven fabric or a plurality of sheets of non-woven fabric can be overlapped.

In the bicycle rim 1 having the above-mentioned structure, the contact layer 130 includes the seventh contact layer 47 and the third contact layer 42. Specifically, the contact layer 130 includes: the seventh contact layer 47, the third contact layer 42, the first intermediate layer 35, and the second intermediate layer 40.

The specific gravity of the inner member 50 is smaller than that of the contact layer 130. The contact layer 130 has a first specific gravity. The inner member 50 has a second specific gravity. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is 0.1 or less. Here, the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is preferably 0.08 or less. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is preferably 0.05 or more. In other words, the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is preferably 0.05 or more and 0.08 or less. The ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is the value obtained by dividing the second specific gravity by the first specific gravity.

The bicycle rim 1 of the second embodiment can suppress low rigidity and achieve weight reduction.

<Other implementation methods>

Although the above is an explanation of one embodiment of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

(A) In the above-mentioned first and second embodiments, an example is shown in which the tire 200 is locked by the first locking portion 13a of the first retaining portion 13 and the second locking portion 15a of the second retaining portion 15 (refer to Figures 2 and 4). A rim having the locking portions 13a and 15a is also called a hook-type rim. Instead of this method, the first retaining portion 13 and the second retaining portion 15 may be constructed as follows. Although the structure of the first embodiment is used for explanation below, the following structure can also be composed in the same manner in the second embodiment.

For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first retaining portion 13 does not have the first locking portion 13a. Similarly, the second retaining portion 15 does not have the second locking portion 15a. A rim that does not have the locking portions 13a and 15a is also called a straight-edge rim. The first retaining surface 13b can contact the tire 200. The first retaining surface 13b extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1. The second retaining surface 15b can contact the tire 200. The second retaining surface 15b extends in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1.

The second retaining surface 15b is arranged to be opposite to the first retaining surface 13b in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1. That is, the radially inner portion of the tire 200 is retained by the first retaining surface 13b and the second retaining surface 15b. For example, the radially inner portion of the tire 200 is the first portion 105a and the second portion 105b. The inner layer member 10 can also be arranged inside the retaining portion 9. The inner layer member 10 is, for example, a non-woven fabric.

(B) An example of a case where a tubeless tire 200 is installed on the bicycle rim 1 of the first and second embodiments is shown. Instead of this method, a tubular tire 200 may be installed on the bicycle rim 1 of the above embodiment.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 7 , the connecting portion 7 has a curved surface 7a extending between the first annular side portion 3 and the second annular side portion 5. The tire 200 is mounted on the curved surface 7a. For example, in the radial direction of the rotation center axis C1, the radial outer side surface 17 of the connecting portion 7 is defined. The radial outer side surface 17 of the connecting portion 7 includes the curved surface 7a. The curved surface 7a forms the radial outer side surface 17 of the connecting portion 7.

The curved surface 7a is provided between the first annular side surface 3 and the second annular side surface 5 in the axial direction of the rotation center axis C1. The curved surface 7a is formed into a concave shape on the radial outer side surface of the rotation center axis C1 of the connecting portion 7. The curved surface 7a is formed into an annular shape in the circumferential direction of the rotation center axis C1.

1: Bicycle rims

3: 1st annular side face

5: Second annular side face

7: Connection

9: Maintaining part

10: Inner components

13: First holding part

13a: First stopper

13b: 1st holding surface

15: Second holding part

15a: Second stopper

15b: Second holding surface

30: Contact layer

C1: Rotation center axis

S1: Internal space

Claims (16)

A bicycle rim for mounting a tire; the bicycle rim comprises: a first annular side surface portion, a second annular side surface portion, a connecting portion, and an inner layer component; the connecting portion connects the first annular side surface portion and the second annular side surface portion in the axial direction of the rotation center axis of the bicycle rim; the inner layer component is arranged in a single inner space formed by the first annular side surface portion, the second annular side surface portion, and the connecting portion; the first The annular side surface and the second annular side surface respectively have a retaining portion; the retaining portion is arranged along the outer periphery of the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface to retain the tire; the inner layer component includes at least one of a non-woven fabric and a porous medium; the connecting portion has a retaining layer for retaining the inner layer component, the retaining layer and the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface are different entities, and the inner layer component is arranged in the internal space. As in claim 1, the bicycle rim, wherein the connecting portion is ring-shaped. As in claim 1 or 2, the bicycle rim, wherein the inner layer component is arranged at the connecting portion. A bicycle rim as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner layer component is arranged on at least one of the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface. A bicycle rim as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion comprises a non-metallic material. As in claim 5, the bicycle rim, wherein the non-metallic material is a fiber composite material. A bicycle rim as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the connecting portion comprises a metal material. As in claim 7, the bicycle rim, wherein the metal material is aluminum. A bicycle rim as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion has: a curved surface extending between the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface; and the tire is mounted on the curved surface. As in claim 1, the bicycle rim, wherein the retaining portion comprises: a first retaining portion arranged radially outward of the first annular side surface portion, and a second retaining portion arranged radially outward of the second annular side surface portion. As in claim 10, the bicycle rim, wherein the inner layer component is arranged on at least one of the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion. As in claim 10, the bicycle rim, wherein the first retaining portion includes a first retaining surface, and the second retaining portion includes a second retaining surface; the first retaining surface extends outwardly toward the radial direction of the first annular side surface; and the second retaining surface extends outwardly toward the radial direction of the second annular side surface. As in claim 10, the bicycle rim, wherein the first retaining portion comprises: a first locking portion disposed on the radially outer side of the first annular side surface; and the second retaining portion comprises: a second locking portion disposed on the radially outer side of the second annular side surface. A bicycle rim for mounting a tire; the bicycle rim comprises: a first annular side surface, a second annular side surface, a connecting portion, and an inner layer member; the connecting portion connects the first annular side surface and the second annular side surface in the axial direction of the rotation center axis of the bicycle rim; the inner layer member is arranged on the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and the inner layer member. The second annular side surface, and the inner part of at least one of the above-mentioned connecting parts; the first annular side surface, the second annular side surface, and at least one of the above-mentioned connecting parts include a contact layer for contacting the above-mentioned inner layer component; the above-mentioned contact layer has a first specific gravity; The above-mentioned inner layer component has a second specific gravity; the ratio of the above-mentioned second specific gravity to the above-mentioned first specific gravity is less than 0.1. As in claim 14, the bicycle rim, wherein the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is less than 0.08. As in claim 14 or 15, the bicycle rim, wherein the ratio of the second specific gravity to the first specific gravity is greater than 0.05.

Images