Assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle

Abstract

Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10), comprising: a first sprocket carrier component (60) comprising a first sprocket mounting section (64) and a first hub engagement section (66), wherein the first sprocket mounting section (64) has a first bicycle-facing side (68) and a first bicycle-away side (70) which is axially parallel to the rotation center axis (A) of the assembly of multiple sprockets for a bicycle (10) opposite the first bicycle-facing side (68); a second sprocket carrier component (62) comprising a second sprocket mounting section (80) and a second hub engagement section (82), wherein the second sprocket mounting section (80) has a second bicycle-facing side (84) and a second bicycle-away side (86) which is opposite the second bicycle-facing side (84) in the axial direction; a first sprocket (11) comprising a first sprocket body (72) and several first sprocket teeth (74) extending radially outwards from the first sprocket body (72) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the first sprocket (11) is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component (60), wherein the first sprocket body (72) is coupled to the first side (68) facing the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64) or the side (70) facing away from the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64); a second sprocket (12) comprising a second sprocket body (88) and several second sprocket teeth (90) extending radially outwards from the second sprocket body (88) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the second sprocket (12) is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component (62), wherein the second sprocket body (88) is coupled to the second side (84) facing the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80) or the second side (86) facing away from the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80); at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub, comprising a sprocket-hub engagement section (26), a sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub, extending radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section (26), and several sprocket teeth (106) engaging with the hub, which extend radially outwards from the sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and the second sprocket support component (60, 62); and at least one fastening component (96) connecting the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is a component separate from the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), and wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is not connected to the fastening component (96), the assembly further comprising: a third sprocket (13) comprising a third sprocket body (76) and several third sprocket teeth (78) extending radially outwards from the third sprocket body (76) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the third sprocket (13) is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component (60), wherein the third sprocket body (76) is coupled to the other side (70) of the first sprocket mounting section (64) facing the bicycle and the first side (78) facing away from the bicycle, and a fourth sprocket (14) comprising a fourth sprocket body (92) and several fourth sprocket teeth (94) extending radially outwards from the fourth sprocket body (92) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the fourth sprocket (14) is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component (62).wherein the fourth sprocket body (92) is coupled to the other side (84) of the second sprocket mounting section (80) facing the bicycle and the second side (86) facing away from the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80).

Description

[0001] This invention relates generally to a component consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle. More specifically, the present invention relates to a component consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle, in which two or more chainrings can be mounted on a bicycle hub using a chainring carrier component.

[0002] Most bicycles use a chain drive, where a chain moves between multiple front and rear chainrings to change gears. In recent years, bicycle component manufacturers have produced drivetrains that offer cyclists even more gear ratios. With the increasing number of gear ratios in bicycle drivetrains, the number of chainrings installed on the rear wheel usually also increases. Consequently, there have been various attempts to increase the maximum number of chainrings that can be installed on a rear hub assembly. For example, some multi-chainring assemblies utilize a sprocket carrier that holds several ring-shaped sprockets on a freewheel of the rear hub.To reduce the overall weight of the multi-chainring assembly utilizing a hub, a lightweight metal such as aluminum is typically used for the hub, while various types of steel are used for the chainrings to ensure adequate stability. An example of a multi-chainring assembly utilizing a hub is disclosed in US 6,382,381 B1 (transferred to Shimano Inc.). DE 20 2011 000 859 U1, US 2006 / 0172840 A1, and US 2009 / 0098966 A1 also describe known multi-chainring assemblies for bicycles with differently designed mounting brackets and spacers for the chainrings.

[0003] In general, the present invention relates to various features of a component assembly comprising several chainrings for a bicycle, comprising two chainring support components for carrying two or more chainrings.

[0004] In light of the known technology and according to the present invention, a component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is provided, comprising a first sprocket carrier component and a second sprocket carrier component. The first sprocket carrier component has a first sprocket mounting section and a first hub engagement section. The first sprocket mounting section has a first side facing the bicycle and a first side facing away from the bicycle, the latter being axially parallel to the axis of rotation of the component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle. The second sprocket carrier component has a second sprocket mounting section and a second hub engagement section.The second sprocket mounting section has a second side facing the bicycle and a second side facing away from the bicycle, which is axially opposite the second side facing the bicycle. A first sprocket has a first sprocket body and several first sprocket teeth extending radially outward from the first sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The first sprocket is a separate component from the first sprocket carrier component. The first sprocket body is coupled to the first side of the first sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle or to the side of the first sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle. A second sprocket has a second sprocket body and several second sprocket teeth extending radially outward from the second sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The second sprocket is a separate component from the second sprocket carrier component.The second sprocket body is coupled to the second side of the second sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle or to the second side of the second sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle. At least one sprocket engaging with the hub has a sprocket-hub engagement section, a sprocket body engaging with the hub that extends radially outward from the sprocket-hub engagement section, and several sprocket teeth engaging with the hub that extend radially outward from the sprocket body engaging with the hub, relative to the axis of rotation. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components. At least one fastening component connects the first sprocket support component and the second sprocket support component.The at least one mounting component is a separate component from the first sprocket support component and the second sprocket support component. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is not connected to the mounting component.

[0005] With the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle according to the present invention, the pedaling torque is transmitted both through the at least one fastening component to the first chainring support component and through the second hub engagement section of the second chainring support component, whereby the axial thickness of the first and the second chainring support component can be reduced.

[0006] According to the invention, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is further designed such that a third sprocket has a third sprocket body and several third sprocket teeth extending radially outwards from the third sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The third sprocket is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component. The third sprocket body is coupled to the other side of the first sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle and the other side of the first sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle.

[0007] According to the invention, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is further designed such that a fourth sprocket has a fourth sprocket body and several fourth sprocket teeth extending radially outwards from the fourth sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The fourth sprocket is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component. The fourth sprocket body is coupled to the other side of the second sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle and to the other side of the second sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle.

[0008] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that at least one fastening component is arranged radially outwards from the first hub engagement section and the second hub engagement section.

[0009] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that at least one fastening component is spaced apart from the first hub engagement section and the second hub engagement section.

[0010] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is designed such that the first sprocket and the third sprocket are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section of the first sprocket support component by means of at least one fastening component.

[0011] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is designed such that the first sprocket and the third sprocket are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section of the first sprocket support component by means of at least one first fastening means.

[0012] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that the at least one fastening component is arranged radially inwards from the at least one first fastening means.

[0013] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is designed such that the second sprocket and the fourth sprocket are coupled to the second sprocket mounting section of the second sprocket support component by means of at least one second fastening means.

[0014] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that the at least one fastening component is arranged radially inwards from the at least one second fastening means.

[0015] Furthermore, according to the invention, a component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is provided, comprising a first sprocket carrier component and a second sprocket carrier component. The first sprocket carrier component has a first sprocket mounting section and a first hub engagement section. The first sprocket mounting section has a first side facing the bicycle and a first side facing away from the bicycle, the latter being axially parallel to the axis of rotation of the component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle. The second sprocket carrier component has a second sprocket mounting section and a second hub engagement section. The second sprocket mounting section has a second side facing the bicycle and a second side facing away from the bicycle, the latter being axially parallel to the second side facing the bicycle.A first sprocket comprises a first sprocket body and several first sprocket teeth extending radially outwards from the first sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The first sprocket is a separate component from the first sprocket carrier component. The first sprocket body is coupled to the first side of the first sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle or the side of the first sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle. A second sprocket comprises a second sprocket body and several second sprocket teeth extending radially outwards from the second sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The second sprocket is a separate component from the second sprocket carrier component. The second sprocket body is coupled to the second side of the second sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle or the second side of the second sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle.At least one sprocket engaging with the hub has a sprocket-hub engagement section, a sprocket body engaging with the hub and extending radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section, and several sprocket teeth engaging with the hub and extending radially outwards from the sprocket body engaging with the hub relative to the axis of rotation. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components. At least one fastening component connects the first and second sprocket support components. The at least one fastening component is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is not connected to the fastening component.This assembly is designed such that at least one fastening component has a spacer section to maintain an axial distance between the first sprocket support component and the second sprocket support component.

[0016] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is designed such that the spacer section is an integral part of the at least one fastening component.

[0017] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is designed such that the at least one fastening component has a pin section and the spacer section is a component separate from the pin section and is mounted on the pin section.

[0018] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that at least one fastening component is made of a metallic material.

[0019] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that at least one fastening component has a rivet.

[0020] Furthermore, according to the invention, a component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle is provided, comprising a first sprocket carrier component and a second sprocket carrier component. The first sprocket carrier component has a first sprocket mounting section and a first hub engagement section. The first sprocket mounting section has a first side facing the bicycle and a first side facing away from the bicycle, the latter being axially parallel to the axis of rotation of the component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle. The second sprocket carrier component has a second sprocket mounting section and a second hub engagement section. The second sprocket mounting section has a second side facing the bicycle and a second side facing away from the bicycle, the latter being axially parallel to the second side facing the bicycle.A first sprocket comprises a first sprocket body and several first sprocket teeth extending radially outwards from the first sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The first sprocket is a separate component from the first sprocket carrier component. The first sprocket body is coupled to the first side of the first sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle or the side of the first sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle. A second sprocket comprises a second sprocket body and several second sprocket teeth extending radially outwards from the second sprocket body with respect to the axis of rotation. The second sprocket is a separate component from the second sprocket carrier component. The second sprocket body is coupled to the second side of the second sprocket mounting section facing the bicycle or the second side of the second sprocket mounting section facing away from the bicycle.At least one sprocket engaging with the hub has a sprocket-hub engagement section, a sprocket body engaging with the hub and extending radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section, and several sprocket teeth engaging with the hub and extending radially outwards from the sprocket body engaging with the hub relative to the axis of rotation. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components. At least one fastening component connects the first and second sprocket support components. The at least one fastening component is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is not connected to the fastening component.This assembly is designed to include a spacer for maintaining an axial distance between the first sprocket support component and the second sprocket support component.

[0021] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that the spacer has a hub engagement section.

[0022] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that at least one fastening component is arranged radially outwards from the spacer.

[0023] Preferably, the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle is designed such that the at least one fastening component has several of the fastening components that are spaced apart around the central axis of rotation.

[0024] Other items, features, aspects and advantages of the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle according to the present invention will also be apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses embodiments of the assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle, wherein Fig. 1 a side view of a component consisting of several chainrings (ten stages) for a bicycle according to an illustrated embodiment from the outside; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the assembly of several sprockets for a bicycle, from which a part has been broken off; Fig. 3 A cross-sectional view of the assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle, viewed along the section line 3 - 3 of Fig. 1, is; Fig. 4 a perspective partial exploded view of the in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. The illustrated assembly consists of several chainrings for a bicycle; Fig. 5 a perspective partial exploded view of selected sprockets of the in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The illustrated assembly consists of several chainrings for a bicycle; Fig. 6 a perspective partial exploded view of selected sprockets of the in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The illustrated assembly consists of several chainrings for a bicycle; Fig. 7 a perspective partial exploded view of selected sprockets of the in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The illustrated assembly consists of several chainrings for a bicycle; Fig. 8 a perspective partial exploded view of selected sprockets of the in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. The illustrated assembly consists of several chainrings for a bicycle; and Fig. 9 a cross-sectional view, similar to Fig. 3, an alternative assembly consisting of several chainrings (ten-stage) for a bicycle according to another illustrated embodiment.

[0025] Since various parts of a bicycle are generally known in the field of bicycles, these parts of the bicycle are not discussed or illustrated in detail herein, unless they have been modified according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Those skilled in the art in bicycles will understand from this disclosure that a component assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle 10 according to the present invention may also have fewer or more chainrings.

[0026] Firstly, regarding the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. Figure 3 illustrates a multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle 10 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle 10 comprises at least a first chainring 11 and a second chainring 12. As shown in this exemplary embodiment, a third chainring 13 is arranged between the first chainring 11 and the second chainring 12, and a fourth chainring 14 is arranged next to the second chainring 12 opposite the third chainring 13.

[0027] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the sprocket assembly 10 comprises ten sprockets 11 to 20. The fifth to tenth sprockets 15 to 20 are arranged in a direction away from the bicycle relative to the first sprocket 11. The sprockets 11 to 20 are axially spaced from each other at predetermined intervals. The sprockets 15 to 20 are designed to be rigidly mounted to the freewheel (not shown) of a rear wheel hub (not shown). The sprockets 11 to 20 are designed to rotate together about a central axis A. The sprockets 11 to 20 typically rotate together in a forward direction D (for example, in a forward direction). Fig. 1 clockwise), when the cyclist pedals forward (clockwise) to propel the bicycle forward.

[0028] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the sprockets 11 to 20 are hard, rigid, disc-shaped components made of a suitable material, such as a metallic material. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the sprockets 11 to 20 are each a single, unitary component made of a metallic material suitable for a bicycle sprocket. With reference to Fig. Figure 3 illustrates the sprocket assembly 10 in a partial cross-section, where the arrows indicate the directions of an upshift and a downshift. An upshift occurs when the chain moves from a large sprocket to the next smaller sprocket, while a downshift occurs when the chain moves from a small sprocket to the next larger sprocket. The sprockets 11 to 20 are designed to allow the chain to perform smooth upshifting and downshifting movements. The sprockets 11 to 20 may have modified teeth, such as teeth with inclined faces and / or recesses, to facilitate upshifting and downshifting.

[0029] As in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the sprockets 11 to 20 are secured to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub by a lock ring 22. The outer circumferential surface 24 of the lock ring is preferably provided with a thread, as shown in Figure 3. Fig. 4 shown, which engages in the threaded surface of the freewheel (not shown), thereby securing the chain wheel assembly 10 to the rear wheel hub (not shown).

[0030] Each of the sprockets 15 to 20 has a sprocket-hub engagement section 26 to 31, which is designed so that it can be directly and firmly mounted to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub, as shown in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. Figure 6 shows that each of the sprockets 15 to 20 engages non-rotatably in the freewheel. Each of the sprockets 15 to 18 has at least one mounting opening 32 to 35, which is arranged in its sprocket body, as shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 6 is shown.

[0031] The sprocket 20 has an integral axial spacer section 36, as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 shows a mechanism for maintaining an axial distance between the sprocket 20 and the sprocket 19. The sprocket 19 has an integral axial spacer section 38 for maintaining an axial distance between the sprocket 19 and the sprocket 18.

[0032] As in the Fig. 3, Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a spacer 40 is arranged on the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The spacer 40 is positioned between the sprocket 18 and the sprocket 17 to maintain an axial distance between the sprockets 18 and 17. The spacer 40 has a hub engagement section 42 designed to be directly and rigidly mounted to the freewheel, thus preventing the spacer 40 from rotating within the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The spacer 40 has at least one mounting opening 44.

[0033] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a spacer 46 is arranged on the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The spacer 46 is positioned between the sprocket 17 and the sprocket 16 to maintain an axial distance between the sprockets 17 and 16. The spacer 46 has a hub engagement section 48 designed to be directly and rigidly mounted to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub, thus preventing the spacer 46 from rotating into the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The spacer 46 has at least one mounting opening 50.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a spacer 52 is arranged on the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The spacer 52 is positioned between the sprocket 16 and the sprocket 15 to maintain an axial distance between the sprockets 16 and 15. The spacer 52 has a hub engagement section 54 designed to be directly and rigidly mounted to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub, thus preventing the spacer 52 from rotating within the freewheel. The spacer 52 has at least one mounting opening 56.

[0035] The sprockets 15 to 18 and the spacers 40, 46 and 52 are secured together by the fastening device 58, as shown in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. Figure 4 shows that the fastening means 58 is received by the at least one fastening opening 32 to 35 in the sprockets 15 to 18 and by the at least one fastening opening 44, 50 and 56 in the spacers 40, 46 and 52. Fig. As shown in Figure 4, three fasteners 58 are used, although another suitable number of fasteners may also be used.

[0036] A first sprocket carrier component 60 and a second sprocket carrier component 62 further accommodate the fastening element 58 and thus form an integral unit, as shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows the first and second sprocket carrier components 60 and 62, respectively, which are directly and rigidly mounted to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The first carrier component 60 carries the first and third sprockets 11 and 13 on the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. Consequently, the first and third sprockets 11 and 13 do not directly contact the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The second carrier component 62 carries the second and fourth sprockets 12 and 14 on the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. Consequently, the second and fourth sprockets 12 and 14 do not directly contact the freewheel of the rear wheel hub.

[0037] The first sprocket carrier component 60 has a first sprocket mounting section 64 and a first hub engagement section 66, as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 7 shows that the first sprocket mounting section 64 has several arms 67 extending radially from the first hub engagement section 66. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the first sprocket mounting section 64 has six arms 67, although another suitable number can also be used. The first sprocket mounting section 64 has a first side 68 facing the bicycle and a first side 70 facing away from the bicycle, which is axially parallel to the axis of rotation A of the assembly of several sprockets for a bicycle 10 opposite the first side 68 facing the bicycle. The first sprocket 11 and the third sprocket 13 are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section 64. The first hub engagement section 68 engages non-rotatably in the freewheel of the rear wheel hub, so that the first support component 60 rotates with the freewheel of the rear wheel hub.

[0038] The first sprocket 11 has a first sprocket body 72 and several first sprocket teeth 74, which extend radially outwards from the first sprocket body 72 with respect to the axis of rotation A, as shown in Fig. Figure 7 shows that the first sprocket 11 is a separate component from the first sprocket carrier component 60. The first sprocket body 72 is coupled to the first side 68 of the first sprocket mounting section 64 facing the bicycle or to the side 70 of the first sprocket mounting section 64 facing away from the bicycle. As shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the first chain wheel body 72 is coupled to the first side 70 of the first chain wheel mounting section 64 facing away from the bicycle.

[0039] The third sprocket 13 has a first sprocket body 76 and several third sprocket teeth 78, which extend radially outwards from the third sprocket body 76 with respect to the axis of rotation A, as shown in Fig. Figure 7 shows that the third sprocket 13 is a separate component from the first sprocket carrier component 60. The third sprocket body 76 is coupled to the other side 64 of the first sprocket mounting section 64, which faces the bicycle, and to the side 70 of the first sprocket mounting section 64, which faces away from the bicycle. As shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the third chain wheel body 76 is coupled to the first side 70 of the first chain wheel assembly section 64 facing the bicycle.

[0040] The second sprocket carrier component 62 has a second sprocket mounting section 80 and a second hub engagement section 82, as shown in the Fig. 3, Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows that the second sprocket mounting section 80 has several arms 83 extending radially from the second hub engagement section 82. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the second sprocket mounting section 80 has six arms 83, although another suitable number can also be used. As shown in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the first and second sprocket support components 60 and 62 have essentially similar shapes, except that the second sprocket support component 62 extends radially further outwards from the axis of rotation A than the first sprocket support component 60. The second sprocket mounting section 80 has a second side 84 facing the bicycle and a second side 86 facing away from the bicycle, which is axially parallel to the axis of rotation A of the multi-sprocket assembly for a bicycle 10 opposite the second side 84 facing the bicycle. The second and fourth sprockets 12 and 14 are fixed to the second sprocket mounting section 76. The second hub engagement section 82 does not rotate with the freewheel of the rear wheel hub, so that the second support component 62 rotates with the freewheel of the rear wheel hub.

[0041] The second sprocket 12 has a second sprocket body 88 and several second sprocket teeth 90, which extend radially outwards from the second sprocket body 88 with respect to the axis of rotation A. The second sprocket 12 is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component 62. The second sprocket body 88 is coupled to the second side 84 of the second sprocket mounting section 80 facing the bicycle or to the second side 86 of the second sprocket mounting section 80 facing away from the bicycle. As shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the second sprocket body 88 is coupled to the second side 86 of the second sprocket mounting section 76, which faces away from the bicycle.

[0042] The fourth sprocket 14 has a fourth sprocket body 92 and several fourth sprocket teeth 94, which extend radially outwards from the fourth sprocket body 92 with respect to the axis of rotation A, as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 8 shows that the fourth sprocket 14 is a separate component from the second sprocket carrier component 62. The fourth sprocket body 92 is coupled to the other side 84 of the second sprocket mounting section 80, the side facing the bicycle, and the side 86 of the second sprocket mounting section 80, the side facing away from the bicycle. As shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the fourth chain wheel body 92 is coupled to the second side 84 of the second chain wheel mounting section 80, which faces the bicycle.

[0043] At least one fastening component 96 connects the first sprocket support component 60 and the second sprocket support component 62, as shown in the Fig. 3, Fig. 7 and Fig. Figure 8 shows that at least one fastening component 96 is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component 60 and the second sprocket carrier component 62. The fastening component 96 can be made of any suitable material; for example, the fastening component is made of a metallic material. The fastening component 96 can be any suitable fastening means; for example, the fastening component has a rivet. As shown in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, several fastening components 96 are spaced circumferentially around the axis of rotation A. Although six fastening components 96 are shown, any other suitable number of fastening components can also be used. The pedaling torque is transmitted to the first chainring support component 60 by at least one fastening component 96, as well as by the second hub engagement section 82 of the second chainring support component 62, thereby reducing the axial thickness of the first and second chainring support components 60 and 62.

[0044] The at least one fastening component 96 is arranged radially outwards from the first hub engagement section 66 and the second hub engagement section 82 of the first and second sprocket carrier components 60 and 62, respectively, as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 7 shows how this facilitates the transmission of the pedaling torque to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. At least one mounting component 96 is spaced apart from the first hub engagement section 66 and the second hub engagement section 82.

[0045] As in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the fastening component 96 has a spacer section 98 for maintaining an axial distance between the first sprocket support component 60 and the second sprocket support component 62, thereby providing the appropriate axial distance between the sprockets coupled to the first and second sprocket support components 60 and 62. Preferably, the spacer section 98 is an integral part of the fastening component 96. As shown in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the fastening component 96 has a pin section 100. The pin section 100 can be integrally formed with the spacer section 98 as a single component. Alternatively, the spacer section 98 is a separate component and is mounted on the pin section 100. If the spacer section 98 is a separate component, it is secured to the pin section 100 in some suitable manner.

[0046] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the first sprocket 11 and the third sprocket 13 are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section 64 of the first sprocket support component 60 by means of at least one fastening component 96, thereby rigidly coupling the first and third sprockets 11 and 13 to the first sprocket support component 60. The at least one fastening component 96 connects the first and second sprocket support components 60 and 62 to the first sprocket support component 60 such that the first and third sprockets 11 and 13 rotate with the first sprocket support component 60.

[0047] As in the Fig. 3, Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the second sprocket 12 and the fourth sprocket 14 are coupled to the second sprocket mounting section 80 of the second sprocket support component 62 by means of at least one fastening element 102, thereby rigidly coupling the second and fourth sprockets 12 and 14 to the second sprocket support component 62. The at least one fastening element 102 connects the second and fourth sprockets 12 and 14 to the second sprocket support component 62 such that the second and fourth sprockets 12 and 14 rotate with the second sprocket support component 62. The fastening element 96 is arranged radially inwards from the at least one fastening element 102, which facilitates the transmission of the pedaling torque from the second sprocket support component 62 to the first sprocket support component 60. Several fastening elements 102 are spaced circumferentially around the axis of rotation A.Although six fasteners are shown, any other suitable number of fasteners may also be used.

[0048] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, at least one sprocket engaging with the hub has a sprocket-hub engagement section, a sprocket body engaging with the hub which extends radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section, and several sprocket teeth engaging with the hub which extend radially outwards from the sprocket body engaging with the hub relative to the axis of rotation A. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components 60 and 62. The at least one sprocket engaging with the hub is not connected to the mounting component 96. Consequently, the pedaling torque is transmitted from the at least one sprocket engaging with the hub to the freewheel of the rear wheel hub without passing through the first or the second sprocket support components 60 and 62.For example, the sprocket 15 has the hub engagement section 26, which engages in the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. A sprocket body 104 of the sprocket 15, which engages with the hub, extends radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section 26. Several sprocket teeth 106, which engage with the hub, extend radially outwards from the sprocket body 104, relative to the axis of rotation A. The sprocket 15 is a separate component from the first and second sprocket support components 60 and 62. The sprocket 15 is not connected to the mounting component 96. The sprockets 16 to 20 are designed similarly to the sprocket 15 as sprockets that engage with the hub.

[0049] A spacer 108 maintains an axial distance between the first sprocket support component 60 and the second sprocket support component 62, as shown in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 7 shows that the appropriate axial distance between the sprockets coupled to the first and second sprocket carrier components is provided. The spacer 108 is arranged axially between the first sprocket carrier component 60 and the second sprocket carrier component 62. The spacer 108 has a hub engagement section 110, which is designed to engage non-rotatably in the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The fastening component 96 is arranged radially outwards from the spacer 108, as shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 7 shows that the spacer 108 has at least one mounting opening 112 and at least one projection 114. The mounting opening 112 extends completely through the spacer 108 in the axial direction. The projection 114 extends axially from the side 116 of the spacer 108 facing away from the bicycle. The projections 114 are received by the mounting openings 117 in the first hub engagement section 66 of the first sprocket support component 60.

[0050] As in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, an additional spacer 118 maintains the axial distance between the sprocket 15 and the first sprocket support component 60. The spacer 118 has a hub engagement section 120, which is designed to engage non-rotatably in the freewheel of the rear wheel hub. The spacer 118 has at least one mounting opening 122, which is designed to receive the fastening element 58.

[0051] As in Fig. Figure 9 shows a component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle 210 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, which, apart from the differences described below, is essentially similar to the component assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle 10 of the first exemplary embodiment. Similar parts are identified by similar reference numerals, increased by 200 (for example, corresponding to 2xx or 3xx).

[0052] The first sprocket support component 260 and the second sprocket support component 262 are coupled by means of at least one fastening component 296. The at least one fastening element 302 couples the second sprocket 212 and the fourth sprocket 214 to the second sprocket support component 262. The pedaling torque is transmitted to the first sprocket support component 260 and to the second sprocket support component 262 by both the at least one fastening component 296, thereby reducing the axial thickness of the first and second sprocket support components 260 and 262.

[0053] The first sprocket 211 and the third sprocket 213 are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section 264 of the first sprocket carrier component 260 by means of at least one fastening element 324. The at least one fastening element 296 is arranged radially inwards from the at least one fastening element 324. The at least one fastening element 324 has several fastening elements that are spaced apart circumferentially about the axis of rotation A. The at least one fastening element 324 that couples the first and third sprockets 211 and 213 is arranged radially inwards from the fastening element 302 that couples the second and fourth sprockets 212 and 214.The at least one fastening component 296 is arranged radially inwards from the at least one fastening means 302 and the at least one fastening means 324, which facilitates the transmission of the pedaling torque from one of the chainring support components to the other chainring support component. As in . Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the first and third sprockets 211 and 213 are not connected to at least one fastening component 296.

[0054] Even if in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Figure 9 shows a rear sprocket assembly, the assembly of several sprockets for a bicycle according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention can likewise be applied to a front sprocket assembly.

[0055] As used herein, the following directional terms, “frame-facing side”, “frame-away side”, “forward”, “backward”, “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, “over”, “under”, “up”, “down”, “top”, “bottom”, “sideways”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “perpendicular”, and “transverse”, and all other similar directional terms, refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright riding position, equipped with the multi-chainring bicycle assembly. Consequently, these directional terms, as used to describe the multi-chainring bicycle assembly, should be interpreted in relation to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface, equipped with the multi-chainring bicycle assembly.The terms "left" and "right" are intended to indicate "right" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and "left" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle, when viewed from the left.

[0056] Even though only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, the person skilled in the art will understand from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made without deviating from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. REFERENCE MARK LIST 10 Component unit consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle 11 first sprocket 12 second sprocket 13 third sprocket 14 fourth sprocket 15 fifth sprocket 16 sixth sprocket 17 seventh sprocket 18 eighth sprocket 19 ninth sprocket 20th sprocket 22 Locking ring 24 external perimeter area 26 Sprocket-hub engagement section 27 Sprocket-hub engagement section 28 Sprocket-hub engagement section 29 Sprocket-hub engagement section 30 Sprocket-hub engagement section 31 Sprocket-hub engagement section 32 Mounting opening 33 Mounting opening 34 Mounting opening 35 Mounting opening 36 integral axial spacing section 38 integral axial spacing section 40 spacers 42 Hub engagement section 44 Mounting opening 46 spacers 48 Hub engagement section 50 Mounting opening 52 spacers 54 Hub engagement section 56 Mounting opening 58 Fasteners 60 first sprocket carrier component 62 second sprocket carrier component 64 First sprocket assembly section 66 first hub engagement section 67 arms 68 first side facing the bicycle 70 first side away from the bicycle 72 first sprocket body 74 first sprocket teeth 76 third sprocket body 78 third sprocket teeth 80 second sprocket assembly section 82 second hub engagement section 83 arms 84 second side facing the bicycle 86 second side facing away from the bicycle 88 second sprocket body 90 second sprocket teeth 92 fourth sprocket body 94 fourth sprocket teeth 96 Fastening component 98 Distance section 100 pen sections 102 Fasteners 104 Sprocket body engaged with the hub 106 chainring teeth engaging with the hub 108 spacers 110 Hub engagement section 112 Mounting opening 114 lead 116 Side away from the bicycle 117 mounting holes 118 additional spacers 120 Hub engagement section 122 Mounting opening 210 Component unit consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle 211 first sprocket 212 second sprocket 213 third sprocket 214 fourth sprocket 215 fifth sprocket 258 Fasteners 260 first sprocket carrier component 262 second sprocket carrier component 264 first sprocket assembly section 296 Fastening component 302 Fasteners 324 Fasteners A pivot axis

Claims

A multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle (10) comprising: a first chainring support component (60) having a first chainring mounting section (64) and a first hub engagement section (66), wherein the first chainring mounting section (64) has a first bicycle-facing side (68) and a first bicycle-away side (70) which is axially parallel to the rotational center axis (A) of the multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle (10) opposite the first bicycle-facing side (68); a second chainring support component (62) comprising a second chainring mounting section (80) and a second hub engagement section (82), wherein the second chainring mounting section (80) has a second bicycle-facing side (84) and a second bicycle-away side (86) which is axially parallel to the second bicycle-facing side (84). lies; a first sprocket (11),comprising a first sprocket body (72) and several first sprocket teeth (74) extending radially outwards from the first sprocket body (72) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the first sprocket (11) is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component (60), wherein the first sprocket body (72) is coupled to the first side (68) facing the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64) or the side (70) facing away from the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64); a second sprocket (12) comprising a second sprocket body (88) and several second sprocket teeth (90) extending radially outwards from the second sprocket body (88) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the second sprocket (12) is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component (62),wherein the second sprocket body (88) is coupled to the second side (84) of the second sprocket mounting section (80) facing the bicycle or the second side (86) of the second sprocket mounting section (80) facing away from the bicycle; at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub, comprising a sprocket-hub engagement section (26), a sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub extending radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section (26), and several sprocket teeth (106) engaging with the hub, extending radially outwards from the sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components (60, 62); and at least one fastening component (96),which connects the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is a component separate from the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), and the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is not connected to the fastening component (96), wherein the assembly further comprises: a third sprocket (13) comprising a third sprocket body (76) and several third sprocket teeth (78) extending radially outwards from the third sprocket body (76) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the third sprocket (13) is a component separate from the first sprocket support component (60),wherein the third sprocket body (76) is coupled to the other side (70) of the first sprocket mounting section (64) facing the bicycle and the first side (68) of the first sprocket mounting section (64) facing away from the bicycle, and a fourth sprocket (14) comprising a fourth sprocket body (92) and several fourth sprocket teeth (94) extending radially outwards from the fourth sprocket body (92) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the fourth sprocket (14) is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component (62), wherein the fourth sprocket body (92) is coupled to the other side (86) of the second sprocket mounting section (80) facing away from the bicycle and the second side (86) of the second sprocket mounting section (80). Assembly consisting of several chain wheels for a bicycle (10) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is arranged radially outwards from the first hub engagement section (66) and the second hub engagement section (82). Assembly consisting of several chain wheels for a bicycle (10) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is spaced apart from the first hub engagement section (66) and the second hub engagement section (82). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (210) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first sprocket (211) and the third sprocket (213) are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section (264) of the first sprocket support component (260) by means of the at least one fastening component (296). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (210) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first sprocket (211) and the third sprocket (213) are coupled to the first sprocket mounting section (264) of the first sprocket carrier component (260) by means of the at least one first fastening means (324). Assembly consisting of several chainrings for a bicycle (210) according to claim 5, wherein the at least one fastening component (396) is arranged radially inwards from the at least one first fastening means (324). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (210) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second sprocket (212) and the fourth sprocket (214) are coupled to the second sprocket mounting section of the second sprocket carrier component (262) by means of the at least one second fastening means (302). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle according to claim 7, wherein the at least one fastening component (296) is arranged radially inwards from the at least one second fastening means (302). A multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle (10), comprising: a first chainring support component (60) having a first chainring mounting section (64) and a first hub engagement section (66), wherein the first chainring mounting section (64) has a first bicycle-facing side (68) and a first bicycle-away side (70) which is axially parallel to the rotational axis (A) of the multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle (10) opposite the first bicycle-facing side (68); a second chainring support component (62) having a second chainring mounting section (80) and a second hub engagement section (82), wherein the second chainring mounting section (80) has a second bicycle-facing side (84) and a second bicycle-away side (86) which is axially parallel to the second bicycle-facing side (84). lies;a first sprocket (11) comprising a first sprocket body (72) and several first sprocket teeth (74) extending radially outwards from the first sprocket body (72) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the first sprocket (11) is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component (60), wherein the first sprocket body (72) is coupled to the first side (68) facing the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64) or the side (70) facing away from the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64);a second sprocket (12) comprising a second sprocket body (88) and several second sprocket teeth (90) extending radially outwards from the second sprocket body (88) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the second sprocket (12) is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component (62), wherein the second sprocket body (88) is coupled to the second side (84) facing the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80) or the second side (86) facing away from the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80);at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub, comprising a sprocket-hub engagement section (26), a sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub, extending radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section (26), and several sprocket teeth (106) engaging with the hub, extending radially outwards from the sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components (60, 62);and at least one fastening component (96) connecting the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is a component separate from the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), and wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is not connected to the fastening component (96), wherein the at least one fastening component (96) has a spacer section (98) for maintaining an axial distance between the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to claim 9, wherein the spacer section (98) is an integral part of the at least one fastening component (96). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to claim 9, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) has a pin section (100) and the spacer section (98) is a component separate from the pin section (100) and is mounted on the pin section (100). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is made of a metallic material. Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to claim 12, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) has a rivet. A multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle (10) comprising: a first chainring support component (60) having a first chainring mounting section (64) and a first hub engagement section (66), wherein the first chainring mounting section (64) has a first bicycle-facing side (68) and a first bicycle-away side (70) which is axially parallel to the rotational center axis (A) of the multi-chainring assembly for a bicycle (10) opposite the first bicycle-facing side (68); a second chainring support component (62) having a second chainring mounting section (80) and a second hub engagement section (82), wherein the second chainring mounting section (80) has a second bicycle-facing side (84) and a second bicycle-away side (86) which is axially opposite the second bicycle-facing side (84);a first sprocket (11) comprising a first sprocket body (72) and several first sprocket teeth (74) extending radially outwards from the first sprocket body (72) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the first sprocket (11) is a component separate from the first sprocket carrier component (60), wherein the first sprocket body (72) is coupled to the first side (68) facing the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64) or the side (70) facing away from the bicycle of the first sprocket mounting section (64);a second sprocket (12) comprising a second sprocket body (88) and several second sprocket teeth (90) extending radially outwards from the second sprocket body (88) with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the second sprocket (12) is a component separate from the second sprocket carrier component (62), wherein the second sprocket body (88) is coupled to the second side (84) facing the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80) or the second side (86) facing away from the bicycle of the second sprocket mounting section (80);at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub, comprising a sprocket-hub engagement section (26), a sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub, extending radially outwards from the sprocket-hub engagement section (26), and several sprocket teeth (106) engaging with the hub, extending radially outwards from the sprocket body (104) engaging with the hub with respect to the axis of rotation (A), wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is a component separate from the first and second sprocket support components (60, 62);and at least one fastening component (96) connecting the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is a component separate from the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62), and wherein the at least one sprocket (15) engaging with the hub is not connected to the fastening component (96), the assembly further comprising: a spacer (108) for maintaining an axial distance between the first sprocket support component (60) and the second sprocket support component (62). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to claim 14, wherein the spacer (108) has a hub engagement section (110). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) is arranged radially outwards from the spacer (108). Assembly consisting of several sprockets for a bicycle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one fastening component (96) has several fastening components (102) which are spaced apart circumferentially about the axis of rotation (A).

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