BICYCLE SADDLE COVER

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle saddle which can be fastened to a bicycle, comprising a bicycle saddle shell which has two opposing recesses, and comprising a damping layer which has two opposing projections which each engage behind the opposing recesses of the bicycle saddle shell in order to achieve a positive fastening of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell. State of the art

[0002] It is known that a conventional bicycle saddle has a bicycle saddle shell that is formed from a hard, durable material to support the weight of the cyclist sitting on the bicycle saddle.

[0003] In order to ensure that the cyclist sits ergonomically on a suitable bicycle saddle, a conventional bicycle saddle usually has a cushioning made of a soft material, which is attached to the bicycle saddle shell and which allows the cyclist's buttocks to rest comfortably on the bicycle saddle.

[0004] Furthermore, it is known that a conventional bicycle saddle can in particular have a bicycle saddle cover which is arranged on the damping attached to the bicycle saddle shell in order to ensure effective protection of the damping.

[0005] With a conventional bicycle saddle, there is often the problem that the damping attached to the bicycle saddle shell is inseparably connected to the bicycle saddle shell. For this reason, if the damping is damaged, for example, the entire bicycle saddle must be replaced, which leads to high costs for the user.

[0006] Another problem is that the damping system mounted on the shell of a conventional bicycle saddle is usually standardized. Due to this standardized design, individual adjustment of the damping system is not typically possible for different cyclists, e.g., in terms of weight and / or anatomy, or for different riding routes, e.g., for a mountain bike tour off-road or a road bike tour on the road.

[0007] In addition, a conventional bicycle saddle with standardized damping can often only inadequately reflect the individual design wishes of the respective cyclist, e.g. in terms of shape and color.

[0008] EP 3 441 291 A1 discloses an ergonomic bicycle saddle for relieving pressure on the cyclist's seat bones, wherein the bicycle saddle has a saddle base, an elastic layer arranged on the saddle base, and two seat bone support elements arranged on the elastic layer.

[0009] EP 3 907 125 A1 discloses a bicycle saddle cover that can be attached to a bicycle saddle shell. The bicycle saddle cover has a contact area with a fastening element for attaching the contact area to the bicycle saddle shell. Furthermore, the bicycle saddle cover has a damping area formed from an elastic material, which is arranged on a region of the bicycle saddle cover facing away from the contact area. EP 3 907 125 A1 discloses the features of the preamble of claim 1. Disclosure of the invention

[0010] The present invention has for its object to provide a bicycle saddle cover with a damping area which can be easily and advantageously attached to a bicycle saddle shell of a bicycle saddle of a bicycle.

[0011] The object of the invention is achieved by the bicycle saddle according to claim 1. The dependent claims claim preferred embodiments.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present object is achieved by a bicycle saddle which can be fastened to a bicycle, wherein the bicycle saddle has a saddle nose and a rear region, and wherein the bicycle saddle has a middle region which is arranged between the rear region and the saddle nose, wherein the bicycle saddle has a bicycle saddle shell and a damping layer which is fastened to the bicycle saddle shell, wherein the damping layer comprises an elastic material which is designed to absorb forces acting on the bicycle saddle by deformation of the elastic material.

[0013] The bicycle saddle is characterized in that the bicycle saddle shell is delimited by a circumferential shell edge, wherein two opposing recesses are formed on an underside of the bicycle saddle shell, which each extend in sections along the shell edge in the middle area of ​​the bicycle saddle.

[0014] The bicycle saddle is further characterized in that the damping layer is delimited by a circumferential layer edge, wherein the damping layer has two opposing projections which extend in sections along the layer edge in the central region of the bicycle saddle.

[0015] The bicycle saddle is further characterized in that the two projections are designed to engage behind the opposite recesses in order to achieve a positive fastening of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell.

[0016] The projections allow the damping layer to be attached to the bicycle saddle shell particularly easily and advantageously.

[0017] The cushioning layer, which comprises an elastic material, is designed to absorb the forces acting on the bicycle saddle cover by deforming the elastic material. This can, for example, provide the advantage of enabling an ergonomically comfortable seating position on the bicycle saddle. In particular, the shape of the cushioning layer, and in particular the structure of the elastic material, is adapted to the cyclist's buttocks.

[0018] On the underside of the bicycle saddle shell, two opposing recesses are formed, which are each engaged behind by two projections of the damping layer, so that an effective form-fitting attachment of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell is achieved.

[0019] In this case, the underside of the bicycle saddle shell faces the roadway when the bicycle saddle is in the mounted position. In particular, the underside of the bicycle saddle shell is shaped as a curved, in particular concavely curved, underside of the bicycle saddle shell. In this case, an upper side of the bicycle saddle shell facing away from the underside of the bicycle saddle shell faces away from the roadway when the bicycle saddle is in the mounted position. In particular, the upper side of the bicycle saddle shell is shaped as a curved, in particular convexly curved, upper side of the bicycle saddle shell. The underside of the bicycle saddle shell is delimited from the upper side of the bicycle saddle shell by the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0020] In this case, the damping layer is arranged in particular on the upper side of the bicycle saddle shell, so that the two projections of the damping layer extend beyond the shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell in order to engage behind the respective recesses arranged on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell in order to achieve the positive fastening of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell.

[0021] The positive fastening ensures, on the one hand, a stable attachment of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell, and on the other hand also provides a detachable fastening option to remove the damping layer from the bicycle saddle shell again.

[0022] In particular, the projections are detachably connectable to the bicycle saddle shell to detachably connect the cushioning layer to the bicycle saddle shell. This achieves the technical advantage that the detachable connection between the projections and the bicycle saddle shell allows the cushioning layer to be easily removed from the bicycle saddle shell. This allows for flexible replacement of the cushioning layer, for example, if a different cushioning layer needs to be quickly and individually attached to the bicycle saddle shell to suit different cyclists or different cycling tour requirements.

[0023] A detachable connection of the protrusions of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell according to the present disclosure particularly includes the following meaning: the damping layer can be removed from the bicycle saddle shell without damaging the bicycle saddle shell or the damping layer. In particular, a detachable connection of the protrusions of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell according to the present disclosure can be released without a tool.

[0024] This allows the damping layer to be easily and conveniently attached to the bicycle saddle shell, or to be easily and conveniently removed from the bicycle saddle shell when replacing the damping layer.

[0025] It is also emphasized that, in addition to the saddle nose and the rear section, the bicycle saddle also has a central section that connects the saddle nose to the rear section. The rear section of the bicycle saddle is sufficiently wide so that the cyclist's buttocks can be conveniently positioned on the rear section while using the bicycle saddle.

[0026] The saddle nose, which is located on the front side of the bicycle saddle facing away from the rear area, extends forward between the two inner surfaces of the cyclist's thighs during use of the bicycle saddle and is therefore narrower than the rear area of ​​the bicycle saddle.

[0027] The middle section of the bicycle saddle, extending between the saddle nose and the rear section, tapers from the rear section towards the saddle nose, so that during use of the bicycle saddle the middle section is located between the two inner surfaces of the cyclist's thighs.

[0028] Here, both the two opposing recesses in the bicycle saddle shell and the two opposing protrusions of the cushioning layer are formed in the central area of ​​the bicycle saddle. This provides the advantage of effectively securing the cushioning layer to the bicycle saddle shell on both sides and in the center.

[0029] In In one embodiment, the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell in the middle area of ​​the bicycle saddle is covered by the two projections of the damping layer.

[0030] This achieves the technical advantage that the cyclist's inner thighs do not come into contact with the surrounding rim of the bicycle saddle while using the saddle. The projections made of the elastic material of the cushioning layer, which cover the surrounding rim of the bicycle saddle shell, ensure effective padding, thus ensuring optimal ergonomic use of the bicycle saddle.

[0031] In In one embodiment, the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell is not covered by the circumferential layer edge of the damping layer in the area of ​​the saddle nose of the bicycle saddle and in the rear area of ​​the bicycle saddle.

[0032] This achieves the technical advantage that the technically complex manufacturing process of attaching the projections of the damping layer all the way around the saddle nose and the rear area of ​​the bicycle saddle is avoided, and only the circumferential shell edge of the middle area of ​​the bicycle saddle, which is crucial for ergonomics, is covered by the projections.

[0033] InIn one embodiment, the two recesses each have a convexly curved recess section and a concavely curved recess section adjoining the convexly curved recess section, wherein in particular the concavely curved recess section of the respective recess is arranged in a section of the central region of the bicycle saddle facing the saddle nose, and wherein in particular the convexly curved recess section of the respective recess is arranged in a section of the central region of the bicycle saddle facing the rear region.

[0034] This achieves the technical advantage that the convex curvature and the concave curvature allow the extension direction of the respective recess to be advantageously adapted to the correspondingly curved circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0035] Accordingly, the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell in the central region of the bicycle saddle has in particular two opposing convexly curved sections, next to which the two convexly curved recess sections of the respective recess are arranged opposite one another on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0036] Accordingly, the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell in the central region of the bicycle saddle has in particular two mutually opposite concavely curved recess sections, next to which the two concavely curved recess sections of the respective recess are arranged opposite one another on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0037] InIn one embodiment, the two opposing recesses formed on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell are each delimited by the shell edge and by a shell rib formed on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell, wherein the respective shell rib extends at an angle, in particular at a right angle, to the respective shell edge.

[0038] This achieves the technical advantage that the respective shell rib enables effective positioning of the respective projection in the respective recess, so that an effective positive connection is provided between the bicycle saddle shell and the damping layer.

[0039] InIn one embodiment, the two shell ribs each have a convexly curved shell rib section and a concavely curved shell rib section adjoining the convexly curved shell rib section, wherein in particular the concavely curved shell rib section of the respective shell rib is arranged in a section of the central region of the bicycle saddle facing the saddle nose, and wherein in particular the convexly curved shell rib section of the respective shell rib is arranged in a section of the central region of the bicycle saddle facing the rear region.

[0040] This achieves the technical advantage that the convex curvature and the concave curvature allow the direction of extension of the respective shell rib to be advantageously adapted to the correspondingly curved circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0041] Accordingly, the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell in the central region of the bicycle saddle has in particular two opposing convexly curved sections, next to which the convexly curved shell rib sections of the respective shell rib are arranged opposite one another on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0042] Accordingly, the circumferential shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell in the central region of the bicycle saddle has in particular two opposing concavely curved sections, next to which the concavely curved shell rib sections of the respective shell rib are arranged opposite one another on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0043] In particular, the concavely curved recess sections of the respective recesses, the concavely curved shell rib sections of the respective shell rib and the correspondingly concavely curved shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell run next to one another.

[0044] In particular, the convexly curved recess sections of the respective recesses, the convexly curved shell rib sections of the respective shell rib and the correspondingly convexly curved shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell run next to one another.

[0045] In In one embodiment, the respective recess at the boundary between the central region and the saddle nose of the bicycle saddle is delimited by a front wall section, and the respective recess at the boundary between the central region and the rear region of the bicycle saddle is delimited by a rear wall section.

[0046] This achieves the technical advantage that the respective front or rear wall section prevents the respective projection from slipping out of the respective recess to the front or rear.

[0047] In particular, the respective recess is delimited on the front side by the front wall section, on the lateral side by the respective shell rib, and on the rear side by the respective rear wall section.

[0048] In In one embodiment, the circumferential shell edge in the region of the saddle nose of the bicycle saddle has a front shell flange which projects beyond the shell edge in the central region of the bicycle saddle, wherein the front shell flange surrounds the bicycle saddle shell between the two recesses, and wherein in particular the layer edge of the damping layer does not overlap the front shell flange.

[0049] This achieves the technical advantage that the front saddle flange of the surrounding shell edge enables effective stabilization of the edge of the damping layer in the area of ​​the saddle nose of the bicycle saddle.

[0050] In In one embodiment, the circumferential shell edge in the rear region of the bicycle saddle has a rear shell flange which projects beyond the shell edge in the central region of the bicycle saddle, wherein the rear shell flange surrounds the bicycle saddle shell between the two recesses, and wherein in particular the layer edge of the damping layer does not overlap the rear shell flange.

[0051] This achieves the technical advantage that the rear saddle flange of the circumferential shell edge enables effective stabilization of the edge of the damping layer in the rear area of ​​the bicycle saddle.

[0052] InIn one embodiment, the front shell flange and / or the rear shell flange have a flange upper side facing away from the underside of the bicycle saddle shell, wherein the layer edge of the damping layer rests on the flange upper side of the front shell flange and / or on the flange upper side of the rear shell flange.

[0053] This achieves the technical advantage that advantageous support for the damping layer is provided by the layer edge of the damping layer resting on the flange top side of the front shell flange and / or on the flange top side of the rear shell flange.

[0054] InIn one embodiment, the underside of the bicycle saddle shell is flat in the region of the two recesses formed on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell, or the underside of the bicycle saddle shell has a depression extending along the edge of the shell in the region of the two recesses formed on the underside of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0055] This achieves the technical advantage that, depending on the design of the recesses, the respective projection of the damping layer in the area of ​​the respective recess either rests on the flatly shaped underside of the bicycle saddle shell or engages in the respective recess in order to ensure effective attachment of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell.

[0056] In one embodiment, the damping layer is connected to the bicycle saddle shell in a form-fitting, non-positive and / or material-fitting manner.

[0057] This achieves the technical advantage that, in addition to the positive connection, the additional force-fitting and / or material-fitting connection ensures a particularly effective and therefore stable attachment of the damping layer to the bicycle saddle shell.

[0058] A corresponding force-locking connection between the damping layer and the bicycle saddle shell comprises in particular a clamping connection, a screw connection and / or a snap-in connection.

[0059] A corresponding material connection between the damping layer and the bicycle saddle shell comprises in particular an adhesive connection and / or a welded connection.

[0060] In one embodiment, the bicycle saddle has a bicycle saddle cover which encloses the elastic material of the damping layer at least in sections, in particular completely.

[0061] This provides the technical advantage that a suitable bicycle saddle cover provides effective protection for the elastic material of the damping layer, particularly against abrasion and / or external weather influences.

[0062] In one embodiment, the bicycle saddle shell comprises a thermoplastic plastic or a carbon-thermoplastic composite, and / or the damping layer comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), in particular expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU), a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic elastomer vulcanizate (TPE-V), polyurethane (PU), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and / or polystyrene (PS), in particular expanded polystyrene (EPS).

[0063] This achieves the technical advantage that the thermoplastic or carbon-thermoplastic composite of the bicycle saddle shell can be used to create a particularly hard and durable material for the bicycle saddle shell. The elastic materials mentioned for the damping layer ensure the effective elastic properties of the elastic material of the damping layer.

[0064] In one embodiment, the bicycle saddle shell is formed as a 3D printed component or as an injection molded part.

[0065] This provides the technical advantage of ensuring particularly simple and therefore cost-effective production of the bicycle saddle shell.

[0066] In one embodiment, the damping layer has two opposing further recesses, each of which is arranged in particular between the respective projection of the damping layer and a main body of the damping layer, wherein the shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell engages in the respective further recess of the damping layer in the central region of the bicycle saddle in order to achieve effective locking of the respective projection in the respective recess.

[0067] This achieves the technical advantage that the engagement of the shell edge of the bicycle saddle shell into the respective further recess of the damping layer prevents the respective projection of the damping layer from accidentally slipping out of the respective recess of the bicycle saddle shell. Short description of the characters

[0068] The invention will now be explained with reference to the accompanying figures, which show exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the invention, wherein Figure 1 shows a bicycle saddle of a bicycle according to a first embodiment in an exploded view, Figure 2 shows the bicycle saddle according to the first embodiment in a bottom view, Figure 3 shows the bicycle saddle according to the first embodiment in a side view, and Figure 4 shows the bicycle saddle according to the first embodiment in a sectional view. Detailed description of the characters

[0069] Figure 1 shows a bicycle saddle of a bicycle according to a first embodiment in an exploded view.

[0070] The one in the Figure 1 The bicycle saddle 1 shown is attached to a Figure 1 not shown bicycle, in particular by means of a Figure 1not shown seat post, which can be attached to a bicycle frame of the bicycle. In the Figure 1 The bicycle saddle 1 is shown in an exploded view, in which the bicycle saddle shell 2 and the damping layer 3 are shown separately from one another. During operation of the bicycle saddle 1, i.e., in the mounted position of the bicycle saddle 1 on the bicycle, the bicycle saddle shell 2 and the damping layer 3 are connected to one another.

[0071] As in the Figure 1is only shown schematically, the bicycle saddle 1 has a rear region 4 on which the buttocks of the cyclist are positioned in the mounting position of the bicycle saddle 1, the bicycle saddle 1 has a saddle nose 5 which is arranged on a front side of the bicycle saddle 1 facing away from the rear region 4, and the bicycle saddle 1 has a central region 6 which is arranged between the rear region 4 and the saddle nose 5.

[0072] The bicycle saddle shell 2 of the bicycle saddle 1 further comprises a saddle holder 7, which is provided with a Figure 1 not shown seat post, which in turn ensures a physical connection between the bicycle saddle 1 and the bicycle, in particular the bicycle frame.

[0073] The bicycle saddle shell 2 is typically made of a durable and hard plastic material, such as a thermoplastic or a carbon-thermoplastic composite, and ensures the structural stability of the bicycle saddle 1, thereby ensuring effective support of the cyclist's weight.

[0074] For ergonomic reasons, however, the cyclist cannot sit directly on the hard bicycle saddle shell 2, so that a bicycle saddle 1 usually has, at least in the area of ​​the main seat, damping elements, such as polystyrene elements, which enable the cyclist to sit comfortably on the bicycle saddle 1. Accordingly, the bicycle saddle 1 according to the invention has Figure 1 a damping layer 3.

[0075] In order to ensure effective damping of the cyclist sitting on the bicycle saddle 1, the damping layer 3 comprises an elastic material which is designed to absorb forces acting on the damping layer 3 by deformation of the elastic material.

[0076] The elastic material of the damping layer 3 comprises in particular a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), in particular an expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU), a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic elastomer vulcanizate (TPE-V), polyurethane (PU), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and / or polystyrene (PS), in particular expanded polystyrene (EPS).

[0077] The corresponding damping function is provided by the Figure 1 shown damping layer 3. Here, a bottom side 3-1 of the damping layer 3 rests against a top side 2-1 of the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0078] The bicycle saddle shell 2 is defined by a circumferential shell edge 8. Two opposing recesses 9 are formed on an underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, each extending in sections along the shell edge 8 in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1.

[0079] The shell edge 8 delimits the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 from the upper side 2-1 of the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0080] In order to enable effective attachment of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2, the damping layer 3 has two opposing projections 10 which extend in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1, each extending in sections along a layer edge 11 of the damping layer 3.

[0081] The layer edge 11 delimits the underside 3-1 of the damping layer 3 from the top side 3-2 of the damping layer 3.

[0082] The two projections 10 of the damping layer 3 are designed to engage behind the respective opposite recesses 9 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 in order to achieve a positive fastening of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0083] For a detailed description of the corresponding fastening of the projections 10 of the damping layer 3 to the recesses 9 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, please refer to the following explanations of the Figures 2 , 3 , and 4 referred to.

[0084] As from the Figure 1 can be removed, the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 is flat in the area of ​​the recesses 9, and the two projections 10 of the damping layer 3 lie on the flat surface of the recesses 9.

[0085] However, according to an optional variant, in the area of ​​the two recesses 9 formed on the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, a depression extending along the shell edge 8 can also be arranged, into which, for example, a bead of the respective projection 10 engages in order to ensure a particularly effective holding of the respective projection 10 in the respective recess 9.

[0086] For the corresponding form-fitting fastening of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2, reference is also made to the illustrations according to the Figures 2 , 3 and 4 referred to.

[0087] In addition, the damping layer 3 can be connected to the bicycle saddle shell 2 in a form-fitting, non-positive, and / or material-locking manner. This means that, in addition to the form-fitting attachment of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2, there is also a non-positive attachment, in particular a screw attachment, a clamp attachment, and / or a snap-in attachment, and alternatively or additionally a material-locking attachment, in particular an adhesive attachment and / or a welded attachment, to connect the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0088] In particular, the projections 10 of the damping layer 3 can have an internal stress, whereby the damping layer 3 is further pressed onto the bicycle saddle shell 2, so that an effective positive and non-positive connection between the damping layer 3 and the bicycle saddle shell 2 can be ensured.

[0089] As from the Figure 1As can be seen, the two opposite recesses 9 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 are each delimited by the circumferential shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, each by a shell rib 12 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, each by a front wall section 14-1 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 and each by a rear wall section 14-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2. For further details, please refer to the explanations on the Figures 2 , 3 and 4 referred to.

[0090] From the Figure 1It is further apparent that the circumferential shell edge 8 in the area of ​​the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1 has a front shell flange 15, which projects beyond the shell edge 8 in the central area 6 of the bicycle saddle 1. The front shell flange 15 surrounds the bicycle saddle shell 2 between the two recesses 9. The layer edge 11 of the damping layer 13 does not overlap the front shell flange 15, but rests on a flange upper side of the front shell flange 15, as can also be seen from the following Figures 2 and 3 can be found in the present application.

[0091] From the Figure 1It is further apparent that the circumferential shell edge 8 in the rear region 4 of the bicycle saddle 1 has a rear shell flange 16, which projects beyond the shell edge 8 in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1, wherein the rear shell flange 16 surrounds the bicycle saddle shell 2 between the two recesses 9. The layer edge 11 of the damping layer 13 does not overlap the rear shell flange 16, but rests on a flange upper side of the rear shell flange 16, as can also be seen from the following Figures 2 and 3 can be found in the present application.

[0092] Furthermore, the bicycle saddle 1 can have a Figure 1not shown bicycle saddle cover, which encloses the elastic material of the damping layer 3 at least in sections, in particular completely, and thus ensures particularly advantageous protection of the elastic material of the damping layer 3 against wear and / or weather influences.

[0093] Furthermore, the bicycle saddle shell 2 of the bicycle saddle 1 is formed, in particular, as a 3D-printed component or as an injection-molded part. This advantageously allows the sometimes complex geometries of the recesses 9 to be introduced into the bicycle saddle shell 2 of the bicycle saddle 1 in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0094] In summary, it can be stated that an advantageous modular construction of the bicycle saddle 1 according to the invention can be achieved, in which the damping layer 3 can be easily and detachably or replaceably attached to the bicycle saddle shell 2 and can also be removed again.

[0095] With different weights or different body proportions of different cyclists, or with different bicycle tours, e.g. during a mountain bike tour off-road or a racing bike tour on the road, this enables the simple use of different damping layers 3 on the bicycle saddle shell 2 depending on the intended use.

[0096] Thus, the damping layer 3 according to the present disclosure provides a variety of individually adaptable and interchangeable damping variants, which can also be adapted according to user requirements with regard to the desired color, shape and design.

[0097] Figure 2 shows the bicycle saddle according to the first embodiment in a bottom view.

[0098] In the Figure 2the rear area 4 of the bicycle saddle 1, the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1, and the middle area 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 between the saddle nose 5 and the rear area 4 are shown schematically.

[0099] From the Figure 2 The illustrated underside view of the bicycle saddle 1 advantageously shows the engagement of the two opposite recesses 9 formed on the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 by the two projections 10 of the damping layer 3 in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1.

[0100] The two recesses 9, which are shown in the bottom view of the Figure 2are covered by the engaging projections 10, each have a concavely curved recess section 9-1 in a section of the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 facing the saddle nose 5, and each have a convexly curved recess section 9-2 in a section of the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 facing the rear region 4.

[0101] Thus, the recesses 9 each have an S-shaped course with two different directions of curvature and thus run in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 along the correspondingly curved shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0102] The two recesses 9 run symmetrically to each other, in particular with respect to a central axis 13 of the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0103] Even if the shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 in the underside illustration according to the Figure 2in the middle area 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 is covered by the two projections 10, can be Figure 2 Nevertheless, the respective shell rib 12 arranged on the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 can be recognized, which delimits the respective recess 9 on the inside.

[0104] The shell ribs 12 extend at an angle, in particular at right angles, to the shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, so that, as can be seen from the Figure 2 As can be seen, the respective projections 10 engaging behind the recesses 9 particularly bear against the respective shell rib 12.

[0105] Obviously, the respective shell rib 12, which delimits the respective recess 9 on the inside, has a curvature corresponding to the respective recess 9.

[0106] Thus, the respective shell rib 12 has a particularly concavely curved shell rib section 12-1 in a section of the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 facing the saddle nose 5, and the respective shell rib 12 has a particularly convexly curved shell rib section 12-2 in a section of the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 facing the rear region 4.

[0107] The two shell ribs 12 run symmetrically to each other, in particular with respect to a central axis 13 of the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0108] Thus, the respective shell rib 12, which is curved in two directions of curvature, forms the corresponding S-shaped curved course of the respective recess 9.

[0109] From the Figure 2It can further be seen that the respective recess 9 at the boundary between the central region 6 and the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1 is delimited by a front wall section 14-1, and that the respective recess 9 at the boundary between the central region 6 and the rear region 4 of the bicycle saddle 1 is delimited by a rear wall section 14-2.

[0110] Thus, the respective recess 9 is delimited by the shell edge 8, the respective shell rib 12, the respective front wall section 14-1, and the respective rear wall section 14-1 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, and thus enables effective engagement by the respective projection 10 of the damping layer 3.

[0111] Figure 3 shows the bicycle saddle according to the first embodiment in a side view.

[0112] In the Figure 3the rear area 4 of the bicycle saddle 1, the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1, and the middle area 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 between the saddle nose 5 and the rear area 4 are shown schematically.

[0113] In the side view according to the Figure 3 is the bicycle saddle 1, just as in the Figure 2 shown in an assembled state, so that the damping layer 3 is positively connected to the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0114] The two projections 10 of the damping layer 3 engage behind the Figure 3 not shown recesses 9, which are formed on the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 in order to achieve a positive fastening of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0115] Thus, as can be seen from the Figure 3can be removed, the circumferential shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 in the central region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 is covered by the two projections 10 of the damping layer 3.

[0116] On the other hand, the circumferential shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 in the rear area 4 of the bicycle saddle 1 and in the area of ​​the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1 is not covered by the circumferential layer edge 11 of the damping layer 3 and can therefore be covered according to the Figure 3 shown viewing direction from the side.

[0117] From the Figure 3 It can also be seen that the circumferential shell edge 8 has a front shell flange 15 in the area of ​​the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1 and a rear shell flange 16 in the rear area 4 of the bicycle saddle 1. Both the front shell flange 15 and the rear shell flange 16 protrude beyond the shell edge 8 in the central area 6 of the bicycle saddle 1.

[0118] Even if the circumferential layer edge 11 of the damping layer 3 does not cover or overlap the front shell flange 15 and the rear shell flange 16, the circumferential layer edge 11 of the damping layer 3 rests on a flange upper side of the front shell flange 15 and on a flange upper side of the rear shell flange 16.

[0119] Thus, the front shell flange 15 or the rear shell flange 16 ensures effective support for the damping layer 3 in the area of ​​the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1 or in the area of ​​the rear area 4 of the bicycle saddle 1.

[0120] Figure 4 shows the bicycle saddle according to the first embodiment in a sectional view.

[0121] Also in the Figure 4the rear area 4 of the bicycle saddle 1, the saddle nose 5 of the bicycle saddle 1, and the middle area 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 between the saddle nose 5 and the rear area 4 are shown schematically.

[0122] In the Figure 4 In the sectional view shown, the section runs through the damping layer 3, through the bicycle saddle shell 2 and through the saddle holder 7 of the assembled bicycle saddle 1.

[0123] Also in the Figure 4 the underside 3-1 of the damping layer 3 rests against the upper side 2-1 of the bicycle saddle shell 2, thereby ensuring an effective bond between the damping layer 3 and the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0124] From the Figure 4It can be advantageously seen how the two projections 10 of the damping layer 3 engage behind the respective opposite recesses 9 on the underside 2-2 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 in order to achieve a positive fastening of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0125] The respective recess 9 is delimited on the outside by the shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 and on the inside by the respective shell rib 12.

[0126] From the Figure 4 It can also be seen that the damping layer 3 has two opposing further depressions 17, in particular grooves, wherein one of the two depressions is arranged between one of the two projections 10 of the damping layer 3 and the main body 18 of the damping layer 3.

[0127] The shell edge 8 of the bicycle saddle shell 2 engages in the middle region 6 of the bicycle saddle 1 in the respective further recess 17, in particular groove, of the damping layer 3 in order to ensure effective locking of the respective projection 10 in the respective recess 9 and thus to prevent the respective projection 10 from slipping out of the respective recess 9.

[0128] This ensures a stable attachment of the damping layer 3 to the bicycle saddle shell 2.

[0129] For further details, please refer to the extensive information on the Figures 1 , 2 and 3 referred to. Reference symbol

[0130] 1Bicycle saddle 2Bicycle saddle shell 2-1Top of the bicycle saddle shell 2-2Bottom of the bicycle saddle shell 3Damping layer 3-1Bottom of the damping layer 3-2Top of the damping layer 4Rear area of ​​the bicycle saddle 5Nose of the bicycle saddle 6Middle area of ​​the bicycle saddle 7Saddle bracket 8Shell edge 9Recess 9-1Concave curved recess 9-2Convex curved recess 10Protrusion 11Layer edge 12Shell rib 12-1Concave curved shell rib section 12-2Convex curved shell rib section 13Center axis of the bicycle saddle shell 14-1Front wall section 14-2Rear wall section 15Front shell flange 16Rear shell flange 17Further recess 18Main body of the damping layer

Claims

1. A bicycle saddle (1) that can be fastened on a bicycle, wherein the bicycle saddle (1) has a saddle nose (5) and a rear region (4), wherein the bicycle saddle (1) has a central region (6) that is arranged between the rear region (4) and the saddle nose (5), wherein the bicycle saddle (1) has a bicycle saddle shell (2) and a damping layer (3) that is fastened on the bicycle saddle shell (2), and wherein the damping layer (3) comprises an elastic material that is designed for absorbing forces acting upon the bicycle saddle (1) due to a deformation of the elastic material, characterized in that the bicycle saddle shell (2) is delimited by a peripheral shell edge (8), wherein two opposing recesses (9) are formed on an underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) and respectively extend sectionally along the shell edge (8) in the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1); in that the damping layer (3) is delimited by a peripheral layer edge (11), wherein the damping layer (3) has two opposing projections (10) that respectively extend sectionally along the layer edge (11) in the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1), and in that the two projections (10) are designed for respectively engaging behind the opposing recesses (9) in order to achieve form-fitted fastening of the damping layer (3) on the bicycle saddle shell (2).

2. The bicycle saddle (1) according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral shell edge (8) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) is covered by the two projections (10) of the damping layer (3) in the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1).

3. The bicycle saddle (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the peripheral shell edge (8) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) is not covered by the peripheral layer edge (11) of the damping layer (3) in the region of the saddle nose (5) of the bicycle saddle (1) and in the rear region (4) of the bicycle saddle (1).

4. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two recesses (9) respectively have a convexly curved recess section (9-2) and a concavely curved recess section (9-1) adjoining the convexly curved recess section (9-2), wherein the concavely curved recess section (9-1) of the respective recess (9) particularly is arranged in a section of the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1) facing the saddle nose (5), and wherein the convexly curved recess section (9-2) of the respective recess (9) particularly is arranged in a section of the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1) facing the rear region (4).

5. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two opposing recesses (9) formed on the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) are respectively delimited by the shell edge (8) and by a shell rib (12) formed on the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2), and wherein the respective shell rib (12) extends at an angle, particularly at a right angle, to the respective shell edge (8).

6. The bicycle saddle (1) according to claim 5, wherein the two shell ribs (12) respectively have a convexly curved shell rib section (12-2) and a concavely curved shell rib section (12-1) adjoining the convexly curved shell rib section (12-2), wherein the concavely curved shell rib section (12-1) of the respective shell rib (12) particularly is arranged in a section of the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1) facing the saddle nose (5), and wherein the convexly curved shell rib section (12-2) of the respective shell rib (12) particularly is arranged in a section of the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1) facing the rear region (4).

7. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the respective recess (9) is delimited by a front wall section (14-1) at the border between the central region (6) and the saddle nose (5) of the bicycle saddle (1), and wherein the respective recess (9) is delimited by a rear wall section (14-2) at the border between the central region (6) and the rear region (4) of the bicycle saddle (1).

8. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the peripheral shell edge (8) has a front shell flange (15), which protrudes beyond the shell edge (8) in the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1), in the region of the saddle nose (5) of the bicycle saddle (1), wherein the front shell flange (15) extends peripherally around the bicycle saddle shell (2) between the two recesses (9), and wherein the layer edge (11) of the damping layer (3) particularly does not overlap the front shell flange (15).

9. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the peripheral shell edge (8) has a rear shell flange (16), which protrudes beyond the shell edge (8) in the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1), in the rear region (4) of the bicycle saddle (1), wherein the rear shell flange (16) extends peripherally around the bicycle saddle shell (2) between the two recesses (9), and wherein the layer edge (11) of the damping layer (3) particularly does not overlap the rear shell flange (16).

10. The bicycle saddle (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the front shell flange (15) and / or the rear shell flange (16) have an upper flange surface that faces away from the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2), and wherein the layer edge (11) of the damping layer (3) rests on the upper flange surface of the front shell flange (15) and / or on the upper flange surface of the rear shell flange (16).

11. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) is shaped in a planar manner in the region of the two recesses (9) formed on the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) or wherein the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) has a depression extending along the shell edge (8) in the region of the two recesses (9) formed on the underside (2-2) of the bicycle saddle shell (2).

12. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping layer (3) is connected to the bicycle saddle shell (2) in a form-fitted manner, as well as in a force fitting and / or cohesive integral manner.

13. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle saddle (1) has a bicycle saddle cover that encloses the elastic material of the damping layer (3) at least sectionally, particularly completely.

14. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle saddle shell (2) comprises a thermoplastic resin or a carbon-thermoplast compound and / or wherein the damping layer (3) comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), particularly expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (E-TPU), a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic elastomer vulcanisate (TPE-V), polyurethane (PU), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and / or polystyrene (PS), particularly expanded polystyrene (EPS).

15. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle saddle shell (2) is realized in the form of a 3D-printed component or in the form of an injection-molded part.

16. The bicycle saddle (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping layer (3) has two additional opposing depressions (17) that are respectively arranged, in particular, between the respective projection (10) of the damping layer (3) and a main body (18) of the damping layer (3), and wherein the shell edge (8) of the bicycle saddle shell (2) engages into the respective additional depression (17) of the damping layer (3) in the central region (6) of the bicycle saddle (1) in order to achieve effective interlocking of the respective projection (10) in the respective recess (9).