GB2541371B

GB2541371B - Chain oiler system

Info

Publication number: GB2541371B
Application number: GB1513291.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Simpson Christopher; Anderson Douglas; Scott Fraser
Original assignee: Scottoiler Sports Solutions Ltd
Current assignee: Scottoiler Sports Solutions Ltd
Priority date: 2015-07-28
Filing date: 2015-07-28
Publication date: 2019-06-12
Anticipated expiration: 2035-07-28
Also published as: GB2541371A; WO2017017403A1; GB201513291D0

Description

Chain Oiler System

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a chain oiler system. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a chain oiler system intended and optimised for use on bicycles.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Chain oiler systems are well known and have been available for use on motorcycles for many years. Properly set up and well lubricated chain drives provide an efficient means of transferring power to a drive wheel. However they operate in a harsh and exposed environment such that even with regular maintenance, adjustment and lubrication efficiency is compromised and chain wear rates are high. Accordingly it was realised many years ago that a means of providing continuous lubrication to chain drives could both maintain optimum efficiency and minimise wear rates. Typically such systems comprise a reservoir unit mounted somewhere on the motorcycle frame connected by a tubing arrangement to an outlet typically positioned adjacent to the rear sprocket to drip feed lubricating oil onto the chain links in that area. The motion of the chain around the sprockets assists in distributing the oil across the surface of the chain links. In a typical system the oil is simply siphoned from the reservoir by gravity while engine vacuum provides the power to open a supply valve and the flow rate is variable by opening/closing the valve aperture. Thus the system only operates when the motorcycle is running. An alternative system has an electronic pump connected to the motorcycle electric system so that oil is pumped through the system and delivered to the chain as before only when the vehicle is running and the motorcycle electrics are live.

Previously proposals have been made to adapt such systems for use on bicycles.

However while it has been recognised that chain driven bicycles are subject to many of the same issues that make a continuous chain lubrication system desirable such known systems are not readily adapted for use on a bicycle. Firstly without an engine vacuum supply or full electrical system alternative means are required to allow automatic control of the oil reservoir. Secondly as the majority of bicycles do not have a fixed chain and rear sprocket assembly but rather a variable multi sprocket derailleur gear arrangement alternative means are required for delivering the oil to the chain. Further as adding weight and bulk to a bicycle is generally unwelcome any added components should be as compact and lightweight as possible.

Accordingly it is desirable to provide a chain oiler system adapted for use on a bicycle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A first aspect of the present invention provides a chain oiler system for a vehicle comprising an oil reservoir having valve means for selectively supplying lubricating oil to a drive chain, the reservoir having user operated means, wireless communication means, and movement sensing means for controlling the valve means characterised in that the valve means operates to supply lubricating oil only when both the user operated means and the movement sensing means are activated; wherein the means for controlling the valve means is a microprocessor programmable to operate the valve means selectively in response to defined combinations of user operator, wireless communication means and movement sensing means inputs; wherein the wireless communication means are provided to provide two way communications with a smartphone or GPS unit to input operating instructions and/or record operating parameters, wherein the inputs depend on external factors including vehicle speed, pedalling cadence, weather conditions, road or terrain conditions, GPS signals.

The movement sensing means may be for example an accelerometer or other motion detecting means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention are further described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1a to 1g are representations of a first embodiment of a reservoir unit of a chain oiler system of the present invention;

Figure 2a to 2g are representations of a second embodiment of a reservoir unit of a chain oiler system of the present invention;

Figure 3a to 3g are representations of a dispenser attachment of a chain oiler system of the present invention.

Figure 4 is an exploded representation of a reservoir unit of a chain oiler system of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 illustrates a main system unit 10 for a chain oiler according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system unit 10 is an integrated oil reservoir 11 and control unit microprocessor 12 and has an oil reservoir filler plug 13 and outlet 14 on the side and bottom of the unit respectively. A control panel 15 is provided on the front of the unit while detachable resilient straps 16 allow for attachment of the unit to a suitable location on a bicycle frame, typically the seat tube of the bicycle. An oil supply tube, not illustrated, connects the outlet 14 to an oil dispenser 30 (fig 3) which dispenses oil onto the bicycle chain and which will be described hereinafter. The control panel 15 has an on/off button 17, a prime button 18 and flow rate up and down buttons 19 and 20 respectively. A cap 21 allows access to a battery compartment.

The control panel 15 buttons 17, 18, 19 & 20 provide a user interface to control the basic functioning of the system unit as set out in table 1 below. The oil flow may be simply under the influence of gravity with the outlet flow controlled by a variable check valve Alternatively the control unit microprocessor 12 may control a micropump to vary the oil flow rate. A built in breather vent ensures even oil flow by allowing for air pressure equalisation in the reservoir as oil flows out. Further construction details of the main system unit are described below with reference to Figure 4.

Table 1.

However as indicated in the background discussion above a bicycle lacks the systems (engine vacuum or electrical system) which effectively provide a dual activation system to ensure that oil is delivered to the chain only when the vehicle is in use.

Thus in this bicycle application the system control unit 12 has built in activity sensors to activate the oil supply only when the system is both turned on and the bicycle is in use.

Effectively the system is dual activated (switched ON/OFF) by an active sensor,

Accelerometer and the user interface defined above. These operate as follows.

The active sensor communicates with the user interface (ON/OFF Switch) to identify the current status of the bicycle.

The active sensor has a sleep mode where the user interface (ON/OFF Switch) is on but the bicycle is not active, ie powered but not in motion. This function will be used where the system has been powered and has been idle for a period of time meaning the system should not be dispensing oil.

The active sensor has a wake mode where the user interface (ON/OFF Switch) is on and the bicycle becomes active. This function will be used where the system has been powered and has been idle for a period of time and then returns to being used meaning the system should be dispensing oil.

Table 2 below indicates the functional states.

State User Interface Motion Active Sensor Function Flow Rate

Button Status Status

The activated flow rate is variable between zero flow and a set maximum drops per minute.

Table 3 below shows the required optimum flow rates:

Referring now to Figure 2 an alternative embodiment of system unit 100 is illustrated.

This embodiment differs from that described in relation to Figure 1 in that the straps 16 are replaced by a fixed mounting bracket 101. The bracket 101 allows for rigid attachment of the system unit to a bicycle frame typically using the mounting points provided on a bicycle frame for bottle cages and the like. Such rigid attachment may be preferable for bicycles that are subject to rough handling such as off road bicycles. Additionally this embodiment has an external 12v power supply 102 connected at one side with the oil reservoir filler plug 113 now on the top. In other respects the functioning of this embodiment is identical to that described above in relation to the Figure 1 embodiment.

In either of the embodiments described the system receives its power from an industry standard replaceable/disposable battery operating at the required voltage/current for the application either internally positioned as in the Figure 1 embodiment or externally positioned as in the Figure 2 embodiment. Alternatively the system may use a rechargeable battery.

This may be in the form of a removable battery to be charged in a separate charger.

Whether standard or rechargeable batteries are used the system unit is configured and constructed to provide means to remove & replace the battery with minimal user input ensuring the environmental factors are not compromised (ie weather seals, IP Rating etc).

It is envisaged that a standard battery will have a useable life of 3 months in normal usage conditions.

It is further envisaged that a modified version of the system may use an integral rechargeable battery.

In this case the system will be provided with means to charge the battery via a generic connection with minimal user input ensuring the environmental factors are not compromised (ie seals, IP Rating etc).

The battery life span will be adequate for the application and last a minimum of 8-10 hours continuous use before there is a requirement to recharge.

The system will come with the power source required to charge the battery.

Where possible a modular removable rechargeable battery should be used. This is for times where the user has no means of connecting the system to a power outlet, ie a shed/garage with no power.

The system will take minimal current from the battery when not in use to avoid reduced battery life.

Adequate protection will be provided to ensure the battery and product is not damaged during use i.e. protection from power surges or reverse polarity charging connection.

Referring now to Figure 3 the oil dispenser 30 will now be described.

The dispenser 30 is supplied with oil from the system unit 10,100 through the oil supply tube passing along the bicycle frame and comprises a main body section 31 having a through slot 32 for receiving a suitable threaded mounting bolt for attachment to the bottom jockey wheel of a bicycle rear derailleur cage (not illustrated). The inner face of the body 31 has an angled nozzle outlet 33 for dispensing oil onto a bicycle chain as it passes over the jockey wheel. The oil is received through an inlet 34. The through slot 32 allows for a degree of adjustment of positioning of the body section 31, both laterally and rotationally, which in turn allows the nozzle 33 to be positioned so as to dispense oil onto the jockey wheel adjacent the chain on a variety of differently sized and configured jockey wheel arrangements. Further fine adjustment is provided by virtue of the nozzle 33 being adjustable for depth and/or position. The rotational movement of the jockey wheel causes the oil to migrate onto the passing chain links in motion.

Referring now to Figure 4 some further details of the construction of the reservoir unit will now be provided. Figure 4 is an exploded view of a reservoir unit generally corresponding to that shown in outline in Figure 1.

The main system unit 10 is made up of the following components. A main body casing 201 provides a structure for receiving a three part oil reservoir assembly comprising a lower section 202 and an upper section 204 separated by a gasket seal 203. A filler plug 213 in the casing 201 provides access to fill the reservoir assembly. A main control circuit board 223 is positioned between the reservoir assembly and the body casing 201 and that complete assembly is mounted within an outer jacket 206 to which a control panel circuit board 215 is affixed. A pair of hooked brackets 205 are affixed to the rear and receive a corresponding pair of mounting straps 210. A battery cap 207 and associated sealing ring 218 provides access through the top of the casing 201 to a battery case 212 which receives a pair of AAA batteries 222 and is provided with suitable battery terminals 219. The bottom of the case 201 is closed off by an oil outlet nozzle assembly 214 through which a barbed connector 211 (for connection to the oil supply tube to the dispenser attachment) extends. The connector 211 in turn attaches to a micropump 217 via a rubber connector insert 209. The micropump 217 is attached to the reservoir assembly through a small filter plug 216. A selection of suitable small threaded fasteners 226 fasten the various parts together to make up the complete assembly already described.

Further enhancements to the basic system are envisaged, For example additional sensors may be provided to monitor additional environmental factors and input this information to the microprocessor to vary the oil flow rate accordingly. Examples include pedalling rate or cadence sensing and moisture sensing to take account of weather conditions. In addition communication features such as Bluetooth (RTM) & ANT+ (RTM) may be incorporated to allow communication with and control via a smart phone or GPS unit. In the latter case it is envisaged that GPS data could be used to vary oil flow rate in response to different terrain e.g. on road and off road conditions could result in different flow rates.

The features and advantages of the chain oiler system described can be summarised as follows.

The system dispenses oil onto the chain at a controlled variable rate either via user input or a cycle mounted active sensor.

The system is mounted on the bicycle in a location (seat tube or other frame area) that is unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing.

The system can use existing bicycle mounting points, included as part of the frame.

The reservoir/pump & power/control electronics are incorporated in a one piece complete unit.

The system dispenses oil onto the chain either through a jockey wheel attachment or directly onto the chain surface.

The system achieves a constant flow rate independent of temperature changes.

The system works automatically with minimal input from the user.

The system has the option to provide the user with the ability to fine tune the flow rate to their preference & riding conditions.

The system only oils the chain when the bike is in motion i.e. not when stopped at traffic lights, loaded on a vehicle, trailer, van etc.

The system control takes this input and controls the flow of oil to meet this requirement. (motion sensing using an accelerometer)

The system is able to operate through a temperature range of -10°C to 50°C.

The system maintains functionality at a range of altitudes associated with cycling in differing climatic environments.

The system will be exposed to the elements and at the most extreme could be subjected to a jet wash I full submersion.

To facilitate this the system can be built to be waterproof to a sealing rating of IP65.

Appropriate choice of materials should ensure a product life span of at least 5 years is achieved. A visual indication of fluid level is provided to allow for easy user monitoring and identification of the need for the reservoir to be filled.

The system provides the user with the relevant controls required to set the flow rate to be variable between zero flow and a number of pre-determined flow settings.

The system dispenses oil in small quantities to allow for accurate rates to be achieved.

Dimensions of the oiler are within the overall sizes of the bicycle frame either chain stay, seat stay or frame tube.

The system allows for the easy fitment of dispenser tubing allowing for oil to be routed to the chain/jockey wheel.

The reservoir is easily accessible for replenishing the oil.

The system is mounted ensuring gravity is used to maintain the oil at its lowest point (pickup feed)

All casings and enclosures are designed with current trends and fashions in consideration.

All casing and enclosures are designed to fit in with the overall look of a wide range of bicycles.

Any user interface controls are designed with cyclists in mind, i.e. for access before, during and after the ride, gloved hands, muddy conditions etc.

Any buttons are spaced well enough to allow them to be used easily and safely.

The system is designed to work with 4 buttons for the user to control the features, etc.

All sizes are kept to a minimum to allow for easy installation.

Appropriate selection of dimensions and materials ensures the system is light in weight in line with bicycle user expectations with an ideal target weight of less than 250g envisaged.

Suitable materials are lightweight enough to keep with the minimum weight specification but also have enough strength to cope with the mechanical forces.

The system is intended to be universal fit and thus easily able to be fitted to most off the shelf production bicycles.

The system is easy to install and does not require any specialist tools or skills.

Where possible the system makes use of standard bicycle fitments.

The supplied fitments are unobtrusive so as not to impact the overall aesthetics of the bicycle negatively.

The amount of delivery tubing for the whole system is kept to a minimum necessary to ease assembly and minimise routing on the bicycle while still allowing allow enough length for various positioning configurations. A maximum tubing length of 2.0m is envisaged.

The delivery tubing material is selected to be able to withstand the environmental conditions encountered in typical bicycle use while being flexible enough for differing installations.

The system is housed within a casing that is intended to provide sufficient mechanical strength to withstand rough handling and ideally to withstand dropping from a height of at least 1m.

The system is also intended to be able to withstand the constant exposure to vibrations associated with bicycle use while being designed to require minimum maintenance.

The oiler has light indication that the system is functioning correctly i.e. an LED, etc.

Whilst specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it will be appreciated that departures from the described embodiments may still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A chain oiler system for a bicycle comprises an oil reservoir having valve means for selectively supplying lubricating oil to a drive chain, the reservoir having user operated means, wireless communication means, and movement sensing means for controlling the valve means characterised in that the valve means operates to supply lubricating oil only when both the user operated means and the movement sensing means are activated; wherein the means for controlling the valve means is a microprocessor programmable to operate the valve means selectively in response to defined combinations of user operator, wireless communication means, and movement sensing means inputs; wherein the wireless communication means are provided to provide two way communications with a smartphone or GPS unit to input operating instructions and/or record operating parameters, wherein the inputs depend on external factors selected from vehicle speed, pedalling cadence, weather conditions, road or terrain conditions, GPS signals.

2. A chain oiler system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the movement sensing means is an accelerometer.

3. A chain oiler system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein there is provided a dispenser attachment having means for adjustable attachment to a bicycle derailleur jockey wheel and oil inlet and outlet means for receiving oil from a reservoir and dispensing oil to a bicycle chain respectively.

4. A chain oiler system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the means for attachment to a jockey wheel comprises a hole or slot in the dispenser attachment for receiving a fixing and mounting bolt for the jockey wheel.

5. A chain oiler system as claimed in claim 3 or 4, wherein the oil outlet means comprises a nozzle arranged to supply oil to the bicycle chain.

6. A chain oiler system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the nozzle is arranged to dispense oil onto the face of the jockey wheel such that rotation of the jockey wheel causes the oil to transfer to the chain as it passes over the jockey wheel.