REAR CHAINRING FOR A HUMAN-POWERED VEHICLE

Abstract

A rear sprocket for a bicycle is provided, capable of realizing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly through a simple design. A locking rear sprocket 51 comprises a sprocket body 63, a plurality of sprocket teeth 65, a tubular body 67, external threads 69, and a radial projection 71. The tubular body 67 extends axially from the axially inward-facing surface of the sprocket body 63. The external threads are provided on the tubular body 67 and are designed to engage with the internal threads 37b provided on a sprocket carrier body 37 of a rear wheel hub assembly 25. The radial projection 71 is designed to extend radially outward from the tubular body 67 and is configured to bear axially against an adjacent sprocket 52 adjoining the rear sprocket 51.The radial projection 71 is free of the multitude of sprocket teeth 65.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a rear sprocket for a human-powered vehicle.

[0002] Human-powered vehicles, especially bicycles, are becoming an increasingly popular form of both recreational and transportation. Furthermore, cycling has become a very popular competitive sport, both for amateurs and professionals. The bicycle industry is constantly improving various bicycle systems. One bicycle system that has been newly developed is a rear chain sprocket for bicycles.

[0003] Generally, as the number of rear sprockets increases, a sprocket carrier body of a popular rear sprocket assembly cannot support a small rear sprocket among the plurality of rear sprockets. For example, if the total number of sprocket teeth of the small rear sprocket is equal to or less than 10, the outer diameter of the sprocket carrier body of the popular rear hub assembly is larger than the inner diameter of the small rear sprocket.

[0004] A rear sprocket assembly is disclosed, for example, in FR 2 415 036 A1. To solve the above-mentioned problem, the rear sprocket assembly of FR 2 415 036 A1 is designed such that a sprocket carrier body of a rear wheel hub assembly includes a small-diameter portion supporting the smallest rear sprocket, for example, a seventh rear sprocket.

[0005] The sprocket carrier body of FR 2 415 036 A1 is shaped so that the thickness of the sprocket carrier body of FR 2 415 036 A1 becomes thicker than the sprocket carrier body of the popular rear hub assembly to form the small-diameter section. The small-diameter section has external threads formed on an outer peripheral surface of the small-diameter section to support the seventh rear sprocket.

[0006] In the design described in FR 2 415 036 A1, it is necessary to drastically modify the sprocket carrier body of the known rear wheel hub assembly in order to mount the smallest rear sprocket on the sprocket carrier body.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a rear sprocket for a human-powered vehicle and a rear sprocket assembly for a human-powered vehicle capable of realizing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly through a simple configuration.

[0008] In particular, it is the object of the present invention to provide a rear sprocket for a human-powered vehicle and a rear sprocket assembly for a human-powered vehicle capable of realizing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly having a wide range by a simple configuration.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a rear sprocket is used for a human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket has a rotational center axis defining an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, an axially outward surface, and an axially inward surface provided on a rear side of the axially outward surface in the axial direction. The axially inward surface is formed to face an axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket is mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket includes a sprocket body, a plurality of sprocket teeth, a tubular body, external threads, and a radial projection.The plurality of sprocket teeth extend radially outward from the sprocket body in the radial direction. The tubular body extends axially from the axially inward-facing surface of the sprocket body. The external thread is formed on the tubular body to threadably engage the internal thread of a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly. The radial projection extends radially outward from the tubular body in the radial direction and is configured to abut an adjacent sprocket adjacent to the rear sprocket in the axial direction without another sprocket being between the rear sprocket and the adjacent sprocket in the assembled state. The radial projection is clear of the plurality of sprocket teeth.

[0010] In the rear sprocket according to the first aspect, the external threads are provided on the tubular body. The rear sprocket is attached to the sprocket carrier body of the rear wheel hub assembly by threading the external threads into engagement with the internal threads of the sprocket carrier body.

[0011] In other words, the rear sprocket is capable of implementing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly through a simple design. In particular, the total number of teeth of the multi-stage rear sprocket can be reduced, for example, to ten or less, to achieve a wide range for a rear sprocket assembly.

[0012] The number of teeth of the adjacent rear sprocket can also be easily changed since the adjacent rear sprocket is designed as a separate element that is separate from the rear sprocket.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a rear sprocket is used for a human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket has a rotational center axis defining an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, an axially outward surface, and an axially inward surface provided on a rear side of the axially outward surface in the axial direction. The axially inward surface is formed to face an axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket is mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket includes a sprocket body, a plurality of sprocket teeth, a tubular body, external threads, and a radial projection.The plurality of sprocket teeth extend radially outward from the sprocket body. The tubular body extends axially from the axially inward surface of the sprocket body. The external thread is formed on the tubular body to threadably engage the internal thread of a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly. The radial projection extends radially outward from the tubular body in the radial direction and is configured to abut an adjacent sprocket adjacent to the rear sprocket in the axial direction without another sprocket being between the rear sprocket and the adjacent sprocket in the assembled state. The radial projection has a knurled surface.

[0014] In the rear sprocket according to the second aspect, the external threads are provided on the tubular body. The rear sprocket is attached to the sprocket carrier body of the rear wheel hub assembly by threading the external threads into engagement with the internal threads of the sprocket carrier body.

[0015] In other words, the rear sprocket is capable of implementing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly through a simple design. In particular, the total number of teeth of the multi-stage rear sprocket can be reduced, for example, to ten or less, to achieve a wide range for a rear sprocket assembly.

[0016] Furthermore, the rear sprocket is capable of preventing loosening of the external threads of the rear sprocket and the internal threads of a sprocket carrier body of a rear wheel hub assembly even when vibrations are applied to the vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle, because the radial projection has a knurled surface and the radial projection abuts against the adjacent sprocket.

[0017] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to the first or second aspect is configured such that the radial projection extends in the circumferential direction. With the rear sprocket according to the third aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of being effectively mounted to the sprocket carrier body of the rear hub assembly.

[0018] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to the third aspect is configured such that the radial projection has an annular shape to surround the tubular body in the circumferential direction. With the rear sprocket according to the fourth aspect, the rear sprocket can be more effectively fixed to the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly.

[0019] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured such that the radial projection is spaced apart from the sprocket body in the axial direction. With the rear sprocket according to the fifth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of being properly positioned with respect to the adjacent sprocket in the axial direction.

[0020] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to any one of the first and third to fifth aspects is configured such that the radial projection has a knurled surface configured to abut against the adjacent sprocket. With the rear sprocket according to the sixth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of appropriately preventing loosening of the external threads of the rear sprocket and the internal threads of a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly, even when vibrations are applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle.

[0021] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to the second or sixth aspect is configured such that the knurled surface is provided on an axially inward surface of the radial projection. With the rear sprocket according to the seventh aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of appropriately preventing loosening of the external threads of the rear sprocket and the internal threads of a sprocket support body of a rear hub assembly, even when vibrations are applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle.

[0022] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured such that the sprocket body has a tool engagement portion configured to engage a tool for rotating the rear sprocket. With the rear sprocket according to the eighth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of being easily mounted to the sprocket carrier body of the rear hub assembly.

[0023] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to the eighth aspect is configured such that the tool engagement portion is provided on the axially outwardly facing surface of the sprocket body. With the rear sprocket according to the ninth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of being easily mounted to the sprocket carrier body of the rear hub assembly.

[0024] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to the second aspect is configured such that the knurled surface is configured to abut against the adjacent sprocket. With the rear sprocket according to the tenth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of appropriately preventing the external threads of the rear sprocket and the internal threads of a sprocket support body of a rear hub assembly from loosening, even when vibrations are applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle.

[0025] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured such that a total number of teeth of the plurality of sprocket teeth is equal to or less than ten. With the rear sprocket according to the eleventh aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of realizing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly with the wide range through the simple configuration.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a rear sprocket assembly is used for the human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket assembly includes the rear sprocket according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects and the adjacent sprocket.

[0027] With the rear sprocket assembly according to the twelfth aspect, the rear sprocket assembly is capable of realizing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly with a wide range through a simple configuration. Specifically, the total number of teeth of the rear sprocket can be reduced, for example, to ten or less, to realize a wide range for a rear sprocket assembly.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket assembly according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the adjacent sprocket includes at least one inner spline configured to engage with at least one outer spline of the sprocket carrier body of the rear hub assembly in the assembled state. With the rear sprocket assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, the rear sprocket assembly is capable of realizing a multi-stage rear sprocket assembly with a large range through the simple configuration.

[0029] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket assembly according to the thirteenth aspect is configured such that the at least one inner spline of the adjacent sprocket has an adjacent knurled surface. With the rear sprocket assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, the rear sprocket assembly is capable of appropriately preventing loosening of the external threads of the rear sprocket and the internal threads of a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly, even when vibrations are applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle.

[0030] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket assembly according to the fourteenth aspect is configured such that the adjacent sprocket has an adjacent axially outwardly facing surface and an adjacent axially inwardly facing surface provided on a rear side of the adjacent axially outwardly facing surface in the axial direction. The adjacent axially inwardly facing surface is configured to face toward the axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction when assembled. The adjacent knurled surface is provided on the adjacent axially outwardly facing surface of the at least one inner spline.With the rear sprocket assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the rear sprocket assembly is capable of preventing loosening of the external threads of the rear sprocket and the internal threads of a sprocket carrier body of a rear wheel hub assembly even when vibrations are applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle, since the adjacent knurled surface is provided on the adjacent axially outwardly facing surface of the at least one inner spline.

[0031] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, a rear sprocket is used for a human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket has a rotational center axis defining an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, an axially outward-facing surface, and an axially inward-facing surface provided on a rear side of the axially outward-facing surface in the axial direction. The axially inward-facing surface is formed to face an axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket is mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket includes a sprocket body, a plurality of sprocket teeth, and at least one inner spline. The plurality of sprocket teeth extend radially outward from the sprocket body in the radial direction.The at least one inner key is configured to engage with at least one outer key of the sprocket carrier body of the rear hub assembly. The at least one inner key has a knurled surface.

[0032] In the rear sprocket according to the sixteenth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of preventing its rotation even when vibration is applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle, since the at least one inner spline has a knurled surface.

[0033] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the rear sprocket according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the knurled surface is provided on the axially outwardly facing surface of the at least one inner spline. With the rear sprocket according to the seventeenth aspect, the rear sprocket is capable of appropriately preventing its rotation even when vibrations are applied to the human-powered vehicle during travel of the human-powered vehicle.

[0034] A more complete understanding of the invention and many attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained by referring to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure, in which Fig. 1 is a side view of a bicycle according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic top view of the bicycle according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 is a side view of a rear sprocket assembly and a hub assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a sectional view of the rear sprocket assembly and the hub assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a sprocket carrier body according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a second inner ring of a second bearing unit and a dust cap according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a partially enlarged sectional view of the rear sprocket assembly and the hub assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8 is the partially enlarged sectional view of the rear sprocket assembly and the hub assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a locking rear sprocket according to the embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an adjacent rear sprocket according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Selected embodiments of the present technology will now be explained with reference to the drawings. From this disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following descriptions of embodiments of the present technology are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the technology as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0036] In the following embodiments, in a case where the plurality of elements and portions correspond to each other, the corresponding elements and portions are indicated by the same symbol.

[0037] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a bicycle 1 includes a frame 3, a front fork 5, a handlebar 7, front and rear wheels 9, 11, a shift operating device 13, a spiral transmission member 15, and a drive train 17. The bicycle 1 is an example of a human-powered vehicle described in the claims.

[0038] As in Fig. 2, the bicycle 1 has an axial center plane P. The axial center plane P extends in a longitudinal direction of the bicycle 1 and in a vertical direction in which the force of gravity acts on the bicycle 1. The longitudinal direction corresponds to a horizontal direction in Fig. 2. The vertical direction corresponds to a vertical direction in Fig. 2.

[0039] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the front fork 5 is pivotally mounted to the frame 3. The handlebar 7 is attached to the front fork 5. The front wheel 9 is pivotally mounted to the front fork 5 via a front wheel hub 18. The rear wheel 11 is pivotally mounted to a rear portion of the frame 3 via a rear wheel hub assembly 25. A front wheel tire 9a is attached to the front wheel 9. A rear wheel tire 11a is attached to the rear wheel 11.

[0040] The shifting operating device 13 is attached to the handlebar 7. The shifting operating device 13 operates a rear bicycle derailleur 21 via a control cable. The rear bicycle derailleur 21 is attached, for example, to a rear portion of the frame 3. The winding transmission element 15 includes a drive chain or a drive belt.

[0041] The rear bicycle derailleur 21 moves the spiral transmission member 15 from one rear sprocket of the rear sprocket assembly 27 to another rear sprocket of the rear sprocket assembly 27 through the shift operating device 13.

[0042] The drive train 17 essentially includes a crank assembly 23, the rear wheel hub assembly 25, and the rear sprocket assembly 27. The threaded transmission element 15 may also be part of the drive train 17. The crank assembly 23 is rotatably mounted on a bottom bracket suspension of the frame 3 of the bicycle 1. The crank assembly 23 is shown in a simplified drawing in Fig. 1 shown.

[0043] As in the Fig. 1 to 3, the rear wheel hub assembly 25 is mounted on the frame 3. As shown in Fig. 4, the rear wheel hub assembly 25 includes a hub axle 31, a hub body 33, an inner body 35, a sprocket carrier body 37, and first and second bearing units 39, 40.

[0044] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the hub axle 31 is attached to the rear portion of the frame 3. For example, both ends of the hub axle 31 are attached to the rear portion of the frame 3 with a quick release. The hub axle 31 has a central axis X1.

[0045] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the hub body 33 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The hub body 33 is arranged radially outward from the hub axle 31 in a radial direction relative to the center axis X1. The hub body 33 is arranged radially inward from the rear wheel 11 in a radial direction relative to the center axis X1. The hub body 33 and the rear wheel 11 are connected to each other via a plurality of spokes.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the hub body 33 is configured to rotate relative to the hub axle 31 in a circumferential direction with respect to the center axis X1. The hub body 33 is supported by the first bearing unit 39. The hub body 33 is supported in the second bearing unit 40 via the inner body 35.

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the inner body 35 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The inner body 35 is arranged between the hub axle 31 and the hub body 33 in the radial direction relative to the central axis X1. The inner body 35 is arranged between the hub axle 31 and the sprocket carrier body 37 in the radial direction relative to the central axis X1.

[0048] The inner body 35 connects the sprocket carrier body 37 to the hub body 33. For example, the inner body 35 connects the sprocket carrier body 37 to the hub body 33 via a one-way clutch structure 38. The inner body 35 is fixed to the hub body 33 so that it rotates together with the hub body 33. The inner body 35 is fixed to a second outer ring 40b of the second bearing unit 40 so that it rotates with the second outer ring 40b of the second bearing unit 40.

[0049] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the sprocket carrier body 37 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The sprocket carrier body 37 is disposed radially outward from the inner body 35 in the radial direction relative to the center axis X1. The sprocket carrier body 37 supports the rear sprocket assembly 27. The sprocket carrier body 37 is supported by the inner body 35 via the one-way clutch structure 38.

[0050] The sprocket carrier body 37 rotates integrally with the hub body 33 and the inner body 35 via the one-way clutch structure 38 in a driving rotational direction in which rotational force is transmitted from the spiral transmission element 15. The sprocket carrier body 37 rotates relative to the hub body 33 and the inner body 35 via the one-way clutch structure 38 in a non-driving rotational direction in which the driving force is not transmitted from the spiral transmission element 15.

[0051] The circumferential direction includes the drive direction of rotation and the non-drive direction of rotation opposite to the drive direction of rotation.

[0052] As in Fig. 4, the sprocket carrier body 37 includes at least one external key 37a and one internal thread 37b. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the at least one outer spline 37a is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the sprocket carrier body 37. The at least one outer spline 37a extends in an axial direction relative to the center axis X1. In this embodiment, the at least one outer spline 37a includes a plurality of outer splines.

[0053] As in Fig. 4, the internal threads 37b are provided on an inner peripheral surface of the sprocket carrier body 37. The internal threads 37b extend on an inner peripheral surface of an axially outer end of the sprocket carrier body 37 in the circumferential direction with respect to the central axis X1.

[0054] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the first bearing unit 39 is arranged between the hub axle 31 and the hub body 33 in the radial direction relative to the center axis X1. The first bearing unit 39 includes a first inner ring 39a, a first outer ring 39b, and a plurality of first rolling elements 39c.

[0055] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the first inner ring 39a is disposed on an outer peripheral surface of the hub axle 31. The first outer ring 39b is disposed on an inner peripheral surface of the hub body 33. The plurality of first rolling elements 39c are arranged between the first inner ring 39a and the first outer ring 39b in the radial direction of the center axis X1. The first inner ring 39a is positioned in the axial direction with respect to the center axis X1 by a first shaft nut 41 via a collar member 42.

[0056] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the second bearing unit 40 is arranged between the sprocket carrier body 37 and the hub body 33 in the radial direction of the center axis X1. The second bearing unit 40 includes a second inner ring 40a, the second outer ring 40b, and a plurality of second rolling elements 40c.

[0057] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the second inner ring 40a is disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the hub axle 31. The second outer ring 40b is disposed on an inner peripheral surface of the sprocket carrier body 37. The plurality of second rolling elements 40c are arranged between the second inner ring 40a and the second outer ring 40b in the radial direction of the center axis X1. The second inner ring 40a is positioned axially relative to the center axis X1 by a second shaft nut 43.

[0058] As in Fig. 6, the second inner ring 40a is tubular in shape. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a dust cap 45 is disposed on the outer surface of the second inner ring 40a. The dust cap 45 is arranged between the second inner ring 40a and the smallest rear sprocket 51 of the rear sprocket assembly 27 in the radial direction relative to the center axis X1.

[0059] The dust cap 45 prevents foreign matter from entering a clearance provided between the hub axle 31 and the sprocket carrier body 37. The dust cap 45 is annular. The dust cap 45 engages the second inner ring 40a and is arranged relative to the second inner ring 40a in the axial direction with respect to the center axis X1. In this embodiment, the dust cap 45 engages the second inner ring 40a in a snap-in manner.

[0060] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, a recess 40a1 is provided on an outer surface of the second inner ring 40a. The recess 40a1 is formed in the shape of an annular groove. A projection 45a is provided on an inner surface of the dust cap 45. The projection 45a is annular in shape. The projection 45a engages the recess 40a1 of the second inner ring 40a. In this embodiment, the projection 45a engages the recess 40a1 of the second inner ring 40a in a snap-fit ​​manner.

[0061] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the rear sprocket assembly 27 is attached to the rear wheel hub assembly 25. The rear sprocket assembly 27 has a rotational center axis X2 arranged coaxially with the center axis X1 of the hub axle 31.

[0062] The rear sprocket assembly 27 includes a plurality of rear sprockets 51-58. The plurality of rear sprockets 51-58 includes the first through eighth rear sprockets 51-58. Each of the first through eighth rear sprockets 51-58 has the rotational center axis X2.

[0063] As in Fig. 4, the first rear sprocket 51 is the smallest rear sprocket among the first to eighth rear sprockets 51-58. The first rear sprocket 51 is fixed to the sprocket carrier body 37 so as to be adjacent to the second rear sprocket 52 and the sprocket carrier body 37 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2.

[0064] The second rear sprocket 52 is arranged on the sprocket carrier body 37 between the first rear sprocket 51 and the third rear sprocket 53 in the axial direction to the rotational center axis X2.

[0065] The third to eighth rear sprockets 53-58 are arranged adjacent to each other on the sprocket carrier body 37 in the axial direction relative to the rotational center axis X2. A spacer 59 is arranged between the two rear sprockets adjacent to each other below the third to eighth rear sprockets 53-58.

[0066] The eighth rear sprocket 58 is the largest rear sprocket among the first to eighth rear sprockets 51-58. The eighth rear sprocket 58 is arranged on the sprocket carrier body 37 between the seventh rear sprocket 57 and the hub body 33 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2.

[0067] The above first rear sprocket 51 rotates together with the sprocket carrier body 37 by engaging with the sprocket carrier body 37. The above second to eighth rear sprockets 52-58 rotate integrally with the sprocket carrier body 37 by engaging with the sprocket carrier body 37 via a toothing.

[0068] As in Fig. 7, the gear engagement is realized by engaging at least one inner key 52a-58a of each of the second to eighth rear sprockets 52-58 with at least one outer key 37a of the sprocket carrier body 37.

[0069] In the present technology, the first rear sprocket 51 and the second rear sprocket 52 have a characteristic shape. In the following explanation, the first rear sprocket 51 is referred to as the "locking rear sprocket" and the second rear sprocket 52 is referred to as the "adjacent rear sprocket."

[0070] The locking rear sprocket 51 is an example of "a rear sprocket" in claims 1 to 15. The adjacent sprocket 52 is an example of "an adjacent sprocket" in claims 1 to 15 and an example of a rear sprocket in claims 16 and 17.

[0071] As in Fig. 1, the rear sprocket assembly 27 is used for the bicycle 1. As shown in Fig. As shown in Fig. 7, the rear sprocket assembly 27 includes the locking rear sprocket 51 and the adjacent sprocket 52. Specifically, the rear sprocket assembly 27 includes the locking rear sprocket 51, the adjacent sprocket 52, and the aforementioned third to eighth rear sprockets 53-58. The total number of rear sprockets is not limited in this embodiment.

[0072] As in Fig. 1, the rear sprocket 51 is used for the bicycle 1. As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the rear sprocket 51 has a rotational center axis X2 defining the axial direction, the radial direction and the circumferential direction, an axially outward surface 61 and an axially inward surface 62 provided on a back side of the axially outward surface 61 in the axial direction.

[0073] As in Fig. 8, the axially inwardly directed surface 62 is configured to face axially toward the axial center plane P of the bicycle 1 in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1.

[0074] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the rear sprocket 51 includes a sprocket body 63, a plurality of sprocket teeth 65, a tubular body 67, external threads 69, and a radial projection 71.

[0075] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 extend radially outward from the sprocket body 63. The tubular body 67 extends axially from the axially inwardly facing surface 62 of the sprocket body 63. The external thread 69 is formed on the tubular body 67 to threadably engage the internal thread 37b of the sprocket carrier body 37 of the rear hub assembly 25.

[0076] The radial projection 71 extends radially outward from the tubular body 67 and is configured to abut against the adjacent sprocket 52 axially adjacent to the rear sprocket 51 in the assembled state in which the rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1, without any other sprocket interposing between the rear sprocket 51 and the adjacent sprocket 52. The radial projection 71 is free of the plurality of sprocket teeth 65.

[0077] As in Fig. 1, the rear sprocket 51 is used for the bicycle 1. As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the rear sprocket 51 has the rotational center axis X2 defining the axial direction, the radial direction, and the circumferential direction, and the axially outward surface 61 and the axially inward surface 62 are provided on a back side of the axially outward surface 61 in the axial direction.

[0078] As in Fig. 8, the axially inwardly directed surface 62 is designed such that, in the assembled state in which the rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1, it points in the axial direction towards the axial center plane P of the bicycle 1.

[0079] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the rear sprocket 51 includes the sprocket body 63, the plurality of sprocket teeth 65, the tubular body 67, the external threads 69, and the radial projection 71.

[0080] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 extend radially outward from the sprocket body 63 in the radial direction. The tubular body 67 extends axially from the axially inwardly facing surface 62 of the sprocket body 63. The external thread 69 is formed on the tubular body 67 to threadably engage the internal thread 37b of the sprocket carrier body 37 of the rear hub assembly 25.

[0081] The radial projection 71 extends radially outward from the tubular body 67 and is configured to abut against the adjacent sprocket 52 that is axially adjacent to the rear sprocket 51 in the assembled state in which the rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1, without any other sprocket being located between the rear sprocket 51 and the adjacent sprocket 52. As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the radial projection 71 has a knurled surface 73.

[0082] As in Fig. 1, the adjacent sprocket 52 is used for the bicycle 1. As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 10, the adjacent sprocket 52 has the rotational center axis X2 defining the axial direction, the radial direction, and the circumferential direction, an adjacent axially outwardly facing surface 75, and an adjacent axially inwardly facing surface 76 provided on a back side of the adjacent axially outwardly facing surface 75 in the axial direction.

[0083] As in Fig. 8, the adjacent axially inwardly directed surface 76 is configured to face axially toward the axial center plane P of the bicycle 1 in an assembled state in which the adjacent sprocket 52 is mounted on the bicycle 1.

[0084] As in Fig. 8 and Fig. 10, the adjacent sprocket 52 includes an adjacent sprocket body 77 and a plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79. The adjacent sprocket 52 includes at least one internal key 52a.

[0085] As in Fig. 8, the plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79 extend radially outward from the adjacent sprocket body 77 in the radial direction. The at least one inner spline 52a is configured to engage with at least one outer spline 37a of the sprocket carrier body 37 of the rear hub assembly 25 in the assembled state in which the adjacent sprocket 52 is mounted on the bicycle 1. As shown in FIGS. Fig. 8 and Fig. 10, the at least one inner key 52a has an adjacent knurled surface 52b.

[0086] The rotational center axis X2 of the locking rear sprocket 51 and the rotational center axis X2 of the adjacent sprocket 52 are arranged coaxially to the center axis X1 of the hub axle 31.

[0087] As in Fig. 9, the rear sprocket 51 includes the sprocket body 63, the plurality of sprocket teeth 65, the tubular body 67, the external threads 69, and the radial projection 71.

[0088] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the sprocket body 63 is annularly shaped. The sprocket body 63 has a tool engagement portion 64 configured to engage a tool for rotating the rear sprocket 51. The tool engagement portion 64 is provided on the axially outwardly facing surface 61 of the sprocket body 63.

[0089] The tool engagement portion 64 includes a plurality of tool inner splines 64a. The plurality of tool inner splines 64a extend from the axially outwardly facing surface 61 of the sprocket body 63 to a distal end of the tubular body 67 in the axial direction relative to the rotational center axis X2.

[0090] As in Fig. 9, the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 are formed integrally with the sprocket body 63. As shown in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 are spaced apart from the radial projection 71 in the axial direction relative to the rotational center axis X2. The total number of teeth of the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 is equal to or less than ten in this embodiment.

[0091] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the tubular body 67 is formed in a tubular shape. The tubular body 67 is integrally formed with the sprocket body 63. The tubular body 67 protrudes from the axially inwardly facing surface 62 of the sprocket body 63 in the axial direction relative to the rotational center axis X2.

[0092] As in Fig. 9, the external threads 69 are provided on an outer peripheral surface of the tubular body 67 on a distal side of the tubular body 67. The external threads 69 extend in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2. The external threads 69 are male threads. As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the external threads 69 engage the internal threads 37b of the sprocket carrier body 37 of the rear wheel hub assembly 25.

[0093] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the radial projection 71 extends circumferentially with respect to the rotational center axis X2. The radial projection 71 has an annular shape to surround the tubular body 67 circumferentially with respect to the rotational center axis X2. The radial projection 71 is formed integrally with the tubular body 67.

[0094] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the radial projection 71 is spaced axially from the sprocket body 63 with respect to the rotational center axis X2. The radial projection 71 is disposed between the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 and the external threads 69 with respect to the rotational center axis X2.

[0095] As in Fig. 8, the radial projection 71 is arranged radially inward from the adjacent sprocket teeth 79 of the adjacent sprocket 52 in the radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 in the assembled state in which the locking rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1.

[0096] The radial projection 71 abuts an axially outwardly directed surface of the at least one inner spline 52a of the adjacent sprocket 52 in the axial direction relative to the rotational center axis X2. The radial projection 71 has the knurled surface 73 configured to abut the adjacent sprocket 52 in the axial direction relative to the rotational center axis X2.

[0097] In particular, as in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the knurled surface 73 is provided on an inwardly directed surface of the radial projection 71. The axially inwardly directed surface of the radial projection 71 is directed in the axial direction toward the axial center plane P of the bicycle 1 in the assembled state in which the locking rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1. As shown in the Fig. 8, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the knurled surface 73 abuts the adjacent knurled surface 52b of the at least one inner key 52a of the adjacent sprocket 52 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2.

[0098] As in Fig. 8, a gap G is provided between the axially inward surface of the radial projection 71 and the distal end of the sprocket carrier body 37 in the axial direction in the assembled state in which the locking rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the bicycle 1.

[0099] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 10, the adjacent sprocket 52 includes the adjacent sprocket body 77, the plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79, and the at least one inner key 52a.

[0100] As in Fig. 10, the adjacent sprocket body 77 is annular in shape. The adjacent sprocket body 77 includes a receiving portion 78. As shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the receiving portion 78 is configured to receive the radial projection 71 of the rear sprocket 51. The receiving portion 78 is provided radially inward from the plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79. The receiving portion 78 is formed in an annular, stepped shape.

[0101] As in Fig. As shown in Fig. 8, the adjacent sprocket body 77 abuts the third rear sprocket 53 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 in the assembled state in which the adjacent sprocket 52 is mounted on the bicycle 1. The plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79 are arranged axially inwardly in the axial direction from the axially inward surface 62 of the sprocket body 63 of the locking rear sprocket 51.

[0102] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79 are integrally formed with the adjacent sprocket body 77. The total number of teeth of the plurality of adjacent sprocket teeth 79 is greater than the total number of teeth of the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 of the locking sprocket 51.

[0103] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. 10, the adjacent sprocket body 77 includes the at least one inner key 52a. In particular, as shown in Fig. 8, the adjacent sprocket 52 includes at least one inner spline 52a configured to engage with at least one outer spline 37a of the sprocket carrier body 37 of the rear hub assembly 25 in the assembled state in which the adjacent sprocket 52 is mounted to the bicycle 1.

[0104] In this embodiment, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the at least one inner spline 52a includes a plurality of inner splines 52a. The plurality of inner splines 52a are provided on an inner peripheral portion of the adjacent sprocket body 77. The plurality of inner splines 52a engage with the plurality of outer splines of the sprocket carrier body 37.

[0105] As in Fig. 8, the adjacent axially inwardly facing surface 76 is configured to face the axial center plane P of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction in the assembled state in which the adjacent sprocket 52 is mounted to the bicycle 1. The adjacent axially outwardly facing surface 75 is configured to face the axially inwardly facing surface 62 of the plurality of sprocket teeth 65 of the locking rear sprocket 51 in the assembled state in which the locking rear sprocket 51 and the adjacent sprocket 52 are mounted to the bicycle 1.

[0106] As in Fig. 10, the at least one inner key 52a of the adjacent sprocket 52 has the adjacent knurled surface 52b. The adjacent knurled surface 52b is provided on the adjacent, axially outwardly facing surface 75 of the at least one inner key 52a.

[0107] In particular, each of the plurality of inner splines 52a has the adjacent knurled surface 52b. The adjacent knurled surfaces 52b are each provided on the adjacent axially outwardly facing surfaces 75 of the plurality of inner splines 52a.

[0108] As in Fig. 8, the adjacent knurled surface 52b abuts the knurled surface 73 of the radial projection 71 of the rear sprocket 51 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2.

[0109] The rear sprocket assembly 27 is mounted to the sprocket carrier body 37 as follows. First, the third through eighth rear sprockets 53-58 and the spacers 59 are attached to the sprocket carrier body 37. Second, the adjacent sprocket 52 is attached to the sprocket carrier body 37 so that it is adjacent to the third rear sprocket 53.

[0110] Finally, the locking rear sprocket 51 is mounted on the sprocket carrier body 37 so as to be adjacent to the adjacent sprocket 52. Specifically, the locking rear sprocket 51 is secured to the sprocket carrier body 37 by engaging the tool with the plurality of tool internal wedges 64a and rotating it.

[0111] Then, the radial projection 71 of the locking rear sprocket 51 is received in the receiving portion 78 of the adjacent sprocket body 77. The knurled surface 73 of the radial projection 71 of the locking rear sprocket 51 abuts the adjacent knurled surfaces 52b of the adjacent sprocket 52.

[0112] The rear sprocket 51, the adjacent sprocket 52 and the third to eighth rear sprockets 53-58 are firmly connected and mounted to the sprocket carrier body 37.

[0113] In the above description, the terms “member,” “section,” “part,” “element,” “body,” and “structure,” when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0114] The ordinal numbers mentioned in this application, such as "first" and "second," are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a specific order, etc. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply that there is a "second element," and the term "second element" itself does not imply that there is a "first element."

[0115] The term "pair" as used herein may include the formation in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other, in addition to the formation in which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures as each other.

[0116] The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” may be used interchangeably herein.

[0117] The phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of a desired selection. For example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "both of two selections" when the number of selections is two. In another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "any combination of equal to or more than two selections" when the number of selections is equal to or greater than three.

[0118] For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In other words, the phrase "at least one of A and B" in this disclosure does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B."

[0119] Finally, terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, represent a reasonable departure from the modified term so that the end result is not substantially changed. All numerical values ​​described in the present application can be construed to include terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately."

[0120] Of course, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as described herein. REFERENCE SYMBOL 1 bicycle 3 frames 5 front fork 7 Handle 9 Front wheel 9a Front tire 11 Rear wheel 11a Rear tire 13 Switch operating device 15 wound transmission element 17 Powertrain 18 Front wheel hub 21 rear bicycle derailleur 23 Crank assembly 25 Rear hub assembly 27 rear sprocket assembly 31 Hub axle 33 hub body 35 inner body 37 Sprocket carrier body 37a Outer wedge(s) 37b internal thread 38 Overrunning clutch structure 39 first storage unit 39a first inner ring 39b first outer ring 39c Variety of the first rolling elements 40 second storage unit 40a second inner ring 40a1 recess 40b second outer ring 40c Variety of second rolling elements 41 first shaft nut 42 collar element 43 second shaft nut 45 dust cap 45a projection 51-58 variety of rear sprockets (first to eighth rear sprocket) 51 first rear sprocket / locking rear sprocket 52 second rear sprocket / adjacent rear sprocket 53-58 third to eighth rear sprocket 52a-58a inner wedge(s) 52a inner wedge 52b adjacent knurled surface 59 spacers 61 axially outward facing surface 62 axially inward-facing surface 63 sprocket body 64 Tool engagement section 64a Variety of tool internal wedges 65 variety of sprocket teeth 67 tubular body 69 external thread 71 radial projection 73 knurled surface 75 adjacent axially outward facing surface 76 adjacent axially inward-facing surface 77 adjacent sprocket body 78 receiving section 79 Variety of adjacent sprocket teeth G gap P axial midplane X1 center axis (of hub axle 31) X2 Rotational center axis (of the rear sprocket assembly 27 / of the locking rear sprocket 51) QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] FR 2 415 036 A1 [0004, 0005, 0006]

Claims

[1] A rear sprocket (51) for a human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket (51) having a rotational center axis (X2) defining an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, an axially outwardly directed surface (61) and an axially inwardly directed surface (62) provided on a rear side of the axially outwardly directed surface (61) in the axial direction, the axially inwardly directed surface (62) being formed to face an axial center plane (P) of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket (51) is mounted on the human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket (51) comprising: a sprocket body (63); a plurality of sprocket teeth (65) extending radially outward from the sprocket body (63) in the radial direction; a tubular body (67) extending axially from the axially inwardly directed surface (62) of the sprocket body (63); External threads (69) provided on the tubular body (67) and adapted to threadably engage with internal threads (37b) provided on a sprocket carrier body (37) of a rear wheel hub assembly (25); and a radial projection (71) extending radially outward from the tubular body (67) in the radial direction and configured to abut against an adjacent sprocket (52) adjacent to the rear sprocket (51) in the axial direction without another sprocket being located between the rear sprocket (51) and the adjacent sprocket (52) in the assembled state, the radial projection (71) being free of the plurality of sprocket teeth (65). [2] A rear sprocket (51) for a human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket (51) having a rotational center axis (X2) defining an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, an axially outwardly directed surface (61) and an axially inwardly directed surface (62) provided on a rear side of the axially outwardly directed surface (61) in the axial direction, the axially inwardly directed surface (62) being formed to face an axial center plane (P) of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket (51) is mounted on the human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket (51) comprising: a sprocket body (63); a plurality of sprocket teeth (65) extending radially outward from the sprocket body (63) in the radial direction; a tubular body (67) extending axially from the axially inwardly directed surface (62) of the sprocket body (63); External threads (69) provided on the tubular body (67) and adapted to threadably engage internal threads (37b) provided on a sprocket carrier body (37) of a rear wheel hub assembly (25); and a radial projection (71) extending radially outward from the tubular body (67) in the radial direction and configured to abut an adjacent sprocket (52) adjacent to the rear sprocket (51) in the axial direction without another sprocket being located between the rear sprocket (51) and the adjacent sprocket (52) in the assembled state, the radial projection (71) having a knurled surface (73). [3] Rear sprocket (51) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the radial projection (71) extends in the circumferential direction. [4] The rear sprocket (51) according to claim 3, wherein the radial projection (71) has an annular shape to circumferentially surround the tubular body (67). [5] Rear sprocket (51) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the radial projection (71) is spaced apart in the axial direction from the sprocket body (63). [6] Rear sprocket (51) according to one of claims 1, 3 to 5, wherein the radial projection (71) has a knurled surface (73) adapted to engage the adjacent sprocket (52). [7] Rear sprocket (51) according to claim 2 or 6, wherein the knurled surface (73) is provided on an axially inwardly directed surface of the radial projection (71). [8] Rear sprocket (51) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sprocket body (63) has a tool engagement portion (64) configured to engage with a tool for rotating the rear sprocket (51). [9] Rear sprocket (51) according to claim 8, wherein the tool engagement portion (64) is provided on the axially outwardly directed surface of the sprocket body (63). [10] Rear sprocket (51) according to claim 2, wherein the knurled surface (73) is configured to engage the adjacent sprocket (52). [11] A rear sprocket according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a total number of teeth of the plurality of sprocket teeth (65) is equal to or less than ten. [12] Rear sprocket assembly (27) for the human-powered vehicle, comprising: the rear sprocket (51) according to one of claims 1 to 11; and the adjacent sprocket (52). [13] Rear sprocket assembly (27) according to claim 12, wherein the adjacent sprocket (52) includes at least one inner spline (52a) adapted to engage with at least one outer spline (37a) of the sprocket carrier body (37) of the rear hub assembly (25) in the assembled state. [14] The rear sprocket assembly (27) of claim 13, wherein the at least one inner spline (52a) of the adjacent sprocket (52) has an adjacent knurled surface (52b). [15] The rear sprocket assembly (27) according to claim 14, wherein the adjacent sprocket (52) has an adjacent axially outwardly facing surface (75) and an adjacent axially inwardly facing surface (76) provided on a rear side of the adjacent axially outwardly facing surface (75) in the axial direction, the adjacent axially inwardly facing surface (76) being formed to face, in the assembled state, toward the axial center plane (P) of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction; and the adjacent knurled surface (52b) is provided on the adjacent axially outwardly facing surface (75) of the at least one inner spline (52a). [16] A rear sprocket (52) for a human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket (52) having a rotational center axis (X2) defining an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction, an axially outwardly directed surface (75) and an axially inwardly directed surface (76) provided on a rear side of the axially outwardly directed surface (75) in the axial direction, the axially inwardly directed surface (76) being formed to face an axial center plane (P) of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction in an assembled state in which the rear sprocket (52) is mounted on the human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket (52) comprising: a sprocket body; a plurality of sprocket teeth (79) extending radially outward from the sprocket body in the radial direction; and at least one inner key (52a) configured to engage with at least one outer key (37a) of the sprocket carrier body (37) of the rear wheel hub assembly (25), wherein the at least one inner key (52a) has a knurled surface (52b). [17] Rear sprocket (52) according to claim 16, wherein the knurled surface (52b) is provided on the axially outwardly directed surface of the at least one inner spline (52a).

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