Chain guide attachment element for chain guide of front derailleur and front derailleur

Abstract

A chain guide attachment element (20) is provided for attachment to the chain guide (14) of the front derailleur (10). The chain guide attachment element (20) mainly comprises a first component (60) and a fixing component (66). The first component (60) is configured to prevent the chain (CN) from detaching from the sprocket of the front sprocket assembly (FS) during inward shifting operations when the chain guide attachment element (20) is attached to the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14) and the front derailleur (10) is mounted to the bicycle frame (F). The fixing component (66) is configured to be fixed to the chain guide (14). The fixing component (66) is free of metal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to a guide attachment element for a guide for a front derailleur. Prior Technology

[0002] Many bicycles offer a chain drivetrain, allowing riders to change the gear ratio used to transmit power from the pedals to the rear wheel. The drivetrain typically uses one or more derailleurs to change the gear ratio. The front derailleur is mounted on the bicycle frame, adjacent to the front sprocket, to move the chain laterally between the front sprockets. A derailleur typically includes a base member, a chain guide, and a linkage assembly. The base member is fixedly attached to the bicycle frame. The chain guide is movably supported relative to the base member by the linkage assembly to move between at least two lateral movement positions. The chain guide contacts the chain to move the chain laterally between the front sprockets. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, this disclosure relates to various features of a chain guide attachment element for a chain guide of a front derailleur. One object of this disclosure is to provide a chain guide attachment element for a chain guide of a front derailleur that more reliably prevents the chain from slipping off during shifting from one sprocket to another.

[0004] In view of the state of the prior art and according to a first aspect of this disclosure, a chain guide attachment element is provided for attachment to a chain guide of a front derailleur. The chain guide attachment element mainly includes a first component and a fixing component. The first component is configured to prevent the chain from detaching from the sprocket of the front sprocket assembly during inward shifting operations, provided that the chain guide attachment element is attached to an inner plate and the front derailleur is mounted to the bicycle frame. The fixing component is configured to secure to the chain guide. The fixing component is free of metal.

[0005] By utilizing the chain guide attachment element according to the first aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be manufactured cheaply and securely attached to the chain guide. Furthermore, since the fixing component does not contain metal material, the chain guide attachment element can be lightweight.

[0006] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the first aspect further includes a second component and a connecting component connecting the first component and the second component. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the second aspect, the second component reduces friction noise generated due to the chain contacting the chain guide and also prevents the chain from falling off.

[0007] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the first or second aspect is configured such that the fixing member includes a fastener opening configured to receive a fastener. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the third aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be easily attached to the chain guide using a fastener.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element described in any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the fixing member and the connecting member are positioned adjacent to each other. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the fourth aspect, the first and second members can be securely attached to the chain guide using the fixing member.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the second to fourth aspects is configured such that the first component is at least partially separated from the second component at the separation region. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the fifth aspect, the first and second components can be suitably positioned.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the fifth aspect is configured such that a receiving space is defined at a position where the first and second components are separated from each other. The receiving space is configured to at least partially accommodate a protruding component of the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the sixth aspect, during an outward shifting operation from one sprocket to another, the protruding component of the inner plate can be suitably positioned between the first and second components to contact the chain.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, a chain guide attachment element is provided for attachment to a chain guide on a front derailleur. The chain guide attachment element substantially comprises a first component, a second component, and a connecting component. The second component is at least partially spaced from the first component. The connecting component connects the first component and the second component. A receiving space is defined at a location where the first component and the second component are spaced apart from each other. The receiving space is constructed as a protruding component that at least partially accommodates an inner plate of the chain guide.

[0012] By utilizing the chain guide attachment element according to the seventh aspect, during an outward shifting operation from one sprocket to another, the protruding part of the inner plate can be suitably positioned between the first and second parts to contact the chain.

[0013] According to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the seventh aspect further includes a fixing member configured for attachment to the chain guide. The fixing member is free of metal. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the eighth aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be manufactured cheaply and securely attached to the chain guide.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element of the eighth aspect is configured such that the fixing member includes a fastener opening configured to receive a fastener. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the ninth aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be easily attached to the chain guide using a fastener.

[0015] According to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element described in either the eighth or ninth aspect is configured such that the fixing member and the connecting member are positioned adjacent to each other. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the tenth aspect, the first and second members can be securely attached to the chain guide using the fixing member.

[0016] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the second to tenth aspects is configured such that at least one of the first and second components includes a joint portion configured to engage with the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the eleventh aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be more securely fixed to the inner plate of the chain guide.

[0017] According to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the eleventh aspect is configured such that the first component includes a joint. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the twelfth aspect, the first component of the chain guide attachment element can be more securely fixed to the inner plate of the chain guide.

[0018] According to the thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the eleventh or twelfth aspect is configured such that the second component includes a joint. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the thirteenth aspect, the second component of the chain guide attachment element can be more securely fixed to the inner plate of the chain guide.

[0019] According to the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of aspects eleven to thirteen is configured such that the engagement portion includes a first hook provided to the first component. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the fourteenth aspect, the first component can be engaged with the inner plate by hooking onto the first hook attached to the inner plate.

[0020] According to the fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of aspects eleven to fourteen is configured such that the engagement portion includes a second hook provided to the second component. Using the chain guide attachment element according to aspect fourteen, the second component can be engaged with the inner plate by hooking onto the second hook attached to the inner plate.

[0021] According to the sixteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the sixth to tenth aspects is configured such that, in the state where the chain guide attachment element is attached to the inner plate of the chain guide, at least a portion of the second member protrudes further into the chain guide groove of the chain guide than the protruding member of the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the sixteenth aspect, the second member contacts the chain before the chain contacts the protruding member of the inner plate.

[0022] According to the seventeenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured such that the first component is configured to contact the chain during an outward gear shifting operation. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the seventeenth aspect, the first component can reliably perform the outward gear shifting operation.

[0023] According to the eighteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects is configured such that the first component is configured to partially cover the inner surface of the inner plate, the inner surface facing the chain guide groove, wherein the chain guide connection element is attached to the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the eighteenth aspect, the first component can be at least partially supported by the inner surface of the inner plate.

[0024] According to the nineteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the second to eighteenth aspects is constructed as an integral component such that the first part, the second part, and the connecting part are integrally formed. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the nineteenth aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be provided inexpensively and easily attached to the chain guide.

[0025] According to the twentieth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the second to nineteenth aspects is constructed such that the first component, the second component, and the connecting component are resin components. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the twentieth aspect, the chain guide attachment element reduces frictional noise from friction between the chain and the chain guide attachment element.

[0026] According to the twenty-first aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the sixth to tenth aspects and the sixteenth aspect is configured such that, in the state where the chain guide attachment element is attached to the inner plate of the chain guide, at least a portion of the first member protrudes further into the chain guide groove of the chain guide than the protruding member of the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the twenty-first aspect, the first member contacts the chain before the chain contacts the protruding member of the inner plate.

[0027] According to a twenty-second aspect of this disclosure, a front derailleur is provided, comprising a chain guide attachment element according to any one of aspects one through twenty-one, a base member, a chain guide, and a linkage assembly. The base member is configured to be mounted to a bicycle frame. The chain guide is configured to be movable relative to the base member. The linkage assembly operatively couples the chain guide to the base member.

[0028] The front derailleur can be provided with a chain guide attachment element according to aspect 22.

[0029] Furthermore, other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed chain guide attachment element and the disclosed front derailleur will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the chain guide attachment element and a description of the disclosed front derailleur. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0030] When considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the invention and its many accompanying advantages will be better understood by referring to the following detailed description, thereby readily obtaining a more complete understanding of the invention and its many accompanying advantages, wherein:

[0031] [Figure 1] is a partial side view of a portion of a bicycle frame having a bicycle drivetrain assembly according to a first embodiment, the bicycle drivetrain assembly including a front derailleur having a base member mounted on the bicycle frame and a chain guide having a chain guide attachment element.

[0032] [Figure 2] is a perspective view of the outside of the front derailleur shown in Figure 1.

[0033] [Figure 3] is an outer view of the front derailleur shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0034] [Figure 4] is an inside view of the front derailleur shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0035] [Figure 5] is a front view of the front derailleur shown in Figures 1 to 4, with the chain guide in the retracted position relative to the base member.

[0036] [Figure 6] is a rear view of the front derailleur shown in Figures 1 to 5, with the chain guide in the retracted position relative to the base member.

[0037] [Figure 7] is a bottom view of the front derailleur shown in Figures 1 to 6, in which the chain guide is in the retracted position relative to the base member.

[0038] [Figure 8] is an external perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements of the front derailleur shown in Figures 1 to 7.

[0039] [Figure 9] is an exploded external perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figure 8.

[0040] [Figure 10] is a cross-sectional view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figures 8 and 9, viewed along section line 10-10 of Figure 3.

[0041] [Figure 11] is a cross-sectional view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figures 8 to 10, viewed along section line 11-11 of Figure 6.

[0042] [Figure 12] is an inner perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figures 8 to 11.

[0043] [Figure 13] is an enlarged front view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figures 8 to 12.

[0044] [Figure 14] is an enlarged rear view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figures 8 to 13.

[0045] [Figure 15] is an outer view of a front derailleur with a chain guide according to a second embodiment, the chain guide being provided with a chain guide attachment element.

[0046] [Figure 16] is an external perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements of the front derailleur shown in Figure 15.

[0047] [Figure 17] is an exploded external perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figure 16.

[0048] [Figure 18] is a cross-sectional view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown in Figures 15 to 17, similar to the cross-section of Figure 11.

[0049] [Figure 19] is a partial side view of a front derailleur with a chain guide attachment element according to a third embodiment. Implementation

[0050] The selected embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the description of the following embodiments is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0051] Referring first to Figure 1, a portion of a bicycle frame F is shown, equipped with a front sprocket assembly FS and a front derailleur 10 according to a first embodiment. The front sprocket assembly FS includes a first sprocket S1 and a second sprocket S2. The first sprocket S1 and the second sprocket S2 are rotated about a rotational axis A by a pair of crank arms CA1 and CA2. The first sprocket S1 is a larger front sprocket relative to the second sprocket S2, and the second sprocket S2 is a smaller front sprocket adjacent to the first sprocket S1. Although the front sprocket assembly FS is shown as having only two front sprockets, those skilled in the art of bicycles will appreciate from this disclosure that the front sprocket assembly FS may include more than two front sprockets if desired and / or as desired.

[0052] Basically, the front derailleur 10 is configured to laterally switch the bicycle chain CN between the first sprocket S1 and the second sprocket S2. The front derailleur 10 includes a base member 12, a chain guide 14, and a linkage assembly 16. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle frame F. The chain guide 14 is configured to be movable relative to the base member 12. The linkage assembly 16 operatively couples the chain guide 14 to the base member 12. In particular, the chain guide 14 is configured to be movably coupled to the base member 12 between a retracted position and an extended position to move the bicycle chain CN. The retracted position is shown in solid lines in Figures 5 and 6, while the extended position is shown in dashed lines in Figures 5 and 6. In the extended position, the chain guide 14 is positioned further away from the base member 12 than in the retracted position.

[0053] Here, the front derailleur 10 is a cable-operated front derailleur operably connected to the shifter using an operating cable 18. However, the front derailleur 10 may be configured to operate in other ways, such as electrically, hydraulically, or pneumatically. In the first embodiment, the operating cable 18 includes a housing 18a and an inner cable 18b passing through the housing 18a. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating cable 18 is a conventional Bowden cable. The inner cable 18b is slidably disposed within the housing 18a. Specifically, the shifter is operated by pulling or releasing the inner cable 18b within the housing 18a to operate the front derailleur 10. As shown, the housing 18a may be formed as a single, continuous tubular member, with one end contacting a portion of the shifter and the other end contacting the front derailleur 10. Alternatively, the housing 18a may be formed from two or more pieces, as is commonly done on some bicycles.

[0054] In the first embodiment, a chain guide attachment element 20 is provided for the chain guide 14 of the front derailleur 10. Therefore, the front derailleur 10 also includes the chain guide attachment element 20. The chain guide attachment element 20 is configured to prevent the chain CN from falling off during downshifting as it moves from the larger sprocket to the adjacent smaller sprocket. Thus, in the example shown in FIG1, the chain guide attachment element 20 is configured to prevent the chain CN from falling off during downshifting as it moves from the first sprocket S1 to the second sprocket S2.

[0055] In a first embodiment, as shown in FIG2, the front derailleur 10 is mounted on the seatpost of the bicycle frame F using a conventional tube clamp 22. However, the front derailleur 10 can be mounted on the bicycle frame F elsewhere, other than the seatpost. As shown in FIG5 and 6, the tube clamp 22 includes a first clamping member 22A and a second clamping member 22B. The first clamping member 22A and the second clamping member 22B are each rigid members made of a suitable material, such as a metal or fiber-reinforced plastic. Here, the first clamping member 22A is integrally formed with the base member 12, while the clamping member 22B is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 by a pivot pin 22C. The tube clamp 22 also includes fasteners 24, such as fixing bolts for securing the tube clamp 22 to the bicycle frame F in a conventional manner. However, those skilled in the art of bicycles will find from this disclosure that the front derailleur 10 can be attached to a braze-on mount provided to the seatpost, or to a hanger via a bottom bracket of the bicycle frame F, as needed and / or required.

[0056] Specifically, the front derailleur 10 also includes a first link member 30 and a second link member 32, which interconnect the base member 12 and the chain guide 14 for lateral movement relative to the bicycle frame F. In other words, the first link member 30 and the second link member 32 define a link assembly for movably supporting the chain guide 14 relative to the base member 12 between an extended position and a retracted position. The first link member 30 and the second link member 32 are each rigid members made of a suitable material, such as a metal or fiber-reinforced plastic. In the embodiment shown here, the first link member 30 is the outer link, and the second link member 32 is the inner link.

[0057] The second link member 32 has a cable attachment bolt 34, which is screwed into a threaded hole in the second link member 32 for securingly attaching the inner cable 18b to the second link member 32.

[0058] Here, as shown in Figures 4 and 6, the front derailleur 10 also includes a biasing member 36 operably provided between the chain guide 14 and the second link member 32 to bias the chain guide 14 toward a retracted position. Alternatively, if desired and / or as needed, the biasing member 36 can be configured to bias the chain guide 14 toward an extended position. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the biasing member 36 is a torsion spring. The biasing member 36 has a coiled portion mounted on a pivot pin 38, which pivotally supports the second link member 32 to the base member 12. The biasing member 36 has a first end engaging the chain guide 14 and a second end engaging the second link member 32.

[0059] The base member 12 is a rigid member made of a suitable material such as metal or plastic. The base member 12 also has a cable receiving portion 40 for accommodating the operating cable 18. As shown in FIG. 5, the cable receiving portion 40 has a stepped hole 42, such that the outer shell abutment surface 44 is formed between a first large-diameter hole section 46 and a second small-diameter hole section 48. The first large-diameter hole section 46 is sized to accommodate the outer shell 18a abutting against the outer shell abutment surface. The second small-diameter hole section 48 is sized to accommodate the inner cable 18b passing through it.

[0060] The chain guide 14 will now be discussed in more detail. As shown in Figures 8 to 14, the chain guide 14 includes an inner plate 50 and an outer plate 52. The inner plate 50 and the outer plate 52 are configured to form a chain guide groove 54 therebetween. Here, the inner plate 50 includes an inner surface 50a facing the chain guide groove 54. The inner plate 50 also includes a protruding member 50b protruding from the inner surface 50a into the chain guide groove 54. The protruding member 50b is disposed along the lower edge of the inner plate 50.

[0061] In the first embodiment, the chain guide 14 further includes an upstream connecting member 56 and a downstream connecting member 58. The upstream connecting member 56 connects the upstream ends of the inner plate 50 and the outer plate 52. The downstream connecting member 58 connects the downstream ends of the inner plate 50 and the outer plate 52. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the chain drive direction CD relative to the bicycle chain CN within the chain guide groove 54 during a forward pedaling action applied to the first sprocket S1 and the second sprocket S2. In other words, the inner surfaces of the inner plate 50 and the outer plate 52 face each other to form the chain guide groove 54 therebetween to accommodate the bicycle chain CN.

[0062] More specifically, in response to derailleur actuation, by pulling the inner cable 18b of the operating cable 18, the chain guide 14 moves outward relative to the base member 12 away from the bicycle frame F. Therefore, in response to the release operation of the operating cable 18, the outer plate 52 contacts and laterally switches the bicycle chain CN, causing the bicycle chain CN to move inward relative to the bicycle frame F from the first sprocket S1 to the second sprocket S2. Furthermore, in response to derailleur actuation, by pulling the inner cable 18b of the operating cable 18, the chain guide 14 moves outward relative to the base member 12 away from the bicycle frame F. Thus, the chain guide 14 can selectively position the bicycle chain CN on one of the first sprocket S1 and the second sprocket S2 in response to derailleur actuation.

[0063] The chain guide 14 will now be discussed in more detail. The chain guide attachment element 20 essentially comprises a first component 60. The first component 60 is configured to partially cover the inner surface 50a of the inner plate 50, which faces the chain guide groove 54, in which the chain guide attachment element 20 is attached to the inner plate 50. Here, the first component 60 is also cantilevered at least relative to the inner plate 50.

[0064] The first component 60 is configured to prevent the chain from detaching from the sprocket of the front sprocket assembly during inward shifting when the chain guide attachment element 20 is attached to the inner plate 50 of the chain guide 14 and the front derailleur 10 is mounted to the bicycle frame F. Specifically, the first component 60 is configured to prevent the chain from detaching from the second sprocket S2 of the front sprocket assembly FS during inward shifting. In other words, the first component 60 is configured to prevent the chain from detaching from the smallest sprocket of the front sprocket assembly during inward shifting.

[0065] Specifically, the first component 60 includes an abutment 60a, which is configured to prevent the chain from disengaging from the smallest sprocket of the front sprocket assembly during inward shifting operations by contacting the abutment 60a. The abutment 60a is located at the tip of the front end of the first component 60 and protrudes inward toward the outer plate 52 of the chain guide 14 relative to the inner surface 50a of the inner plate 50. The abutment 60a is spaced apart from the connecting component 64.

[0066] The support 60a is located at the foremost part of the chain guide attachment element 20. Compared to any other part of the chain guide attachment element 20, the support 60a protrudes furthest into the chain guide groove 54. During an inward shift, as the chain CN is guided from the first sprocket S1 to the second sprocket S2, the chain CN begins to disengage from the first sprocket S1 and then moves onto the second sprocket S2. However, if the chain CN moves further inward toward the bicycle frame F, the chain CN contacts the support 60a to prevent it from disengaging onto the inside of the second sprocket S2.

[0067] Furthermore, the first component 60 is configured to contact the chain CN during outward shifting operations. Specifically, the first component 60 includes a chain contact surface 60b that contacts the chain CN during outward shifting operations. Preferably, the chain contact surface 60b of the first component 60 is located downward from the bottom peripheral edge of the inner plate 50. Here, the first component 60 is cantilevered relative to the inner plate 50, wherein the chain guide attachment element 20 is attached to the inner plate 50. Thus, the chain guide attachment element 20 can deform relative to the chain guide 14 in response to contact with the chain CN during outward shifting operations.

[0068] The chain guide attachment element 20 also includes a second component 62 and a connecting component 64. The connecting component 64 connects the first component 60 and the second component 62. Thus, the second component 62 is at least partially spaced from the first component 60. Therefore, the first component 60 is at least partially spaced from the second component 62 at the separation region R. Preferably, as in the first embodiment, the first component 60, the second component 62, and the connecting component 64 are integrally formed components. For example, the first component 60, the second component 62, and the connecting component 64 are resin components. For example, the chain guide attachment element 20 is integrally molded from a hard synthetic resin (e.g., polyacetal), which is elastic and resilient to return to its original state after the first component 60 deflects relative to the second component 62 during an outward gear shifting operation. Here, the chain contact surface 60b extends between the connecting component 64 and the support 60a. Furthermore, the second component 62 has a first end 62a and a second end 62b. The second end 62b is connected to the connecting component 64.

[0069] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the chain guide attachment element 20 also includes a retaining member 66. In a first embodiment, the retaining member 66 is located adjacent to the connecting member 64. The retaining member 66 is configured to attach to the chain guide 14. The retaining member 66 is free of metal. Here, the retaining member 66 includes a fastener opening 66a configured to receive a fastener 68. In the first embodiment, the fastener 68 is a rivet that secures the chain guide attachment element 20 to the inner plate 50. The fastener 68 also connects the tab portion 58a of the downstream connecting member 58 to the inner plate 50. More specifically, the fastener 68 extends through the fastener opening 66a of the chain guide attachment element 20, then through the opening 58b of the downstream connecting member 58 and through the opening 50c of the inner plate 50.

[0070] Preferably, as shown in FIG12, at least one of the first component 60 and the second component 62 includes a joint portion configured to engage with the inner panel 50. Here, the first component 60 includes a joint portion 70. Furthermore, the second component 62 includes a joint portion 72. In a first embodiment, the joint portion 70 includes a first hook 70a provided to the first component 60. The first hook 70a hooks onto the inner panel 50 at a first position. In a first embodiment, the joint portion 72 includes a second hook 72a provided to the second component 62. The second hook 72a hooks onto the inner panel 50 at a second position spaced apart from the first position of the first hook 70a.

[0071] Referring to Figure 9, the chain guide attachment element 20 also includes a receiving space 74 defined at a position where the first component 60 and the second component 62 are spaced apart from each other. More specifically, the receiving space 74 is configured to at least partially receive a protruding part 50b of the inner plate 50 of the chain guide 14. In other words, with the chain guide attachment element 20 mounted to the chain guide 14 of the front derailleur 10, the protruding part 50b is at least partially located in the receiving space 74. The protruding part 50b of the inner plate 50 protrudes from the inner plate 50 into the chain guide groove 54. With the chain guide attachment element 20 attached to the inner plate 50 of the chain guide 14, the first component 60 and the second component 62 are located adjacent to the protruding part 50b of the inner plate 50. The protruding part 50b of the inner plate 50 at least partially defines the separation region R between the first component 60 and the second component 62. As seen in Figures 13 and 14, with the chain guide attachment element 20 attached to the inner plate 50 of the chain guide 14, at least a portion of the first component 60 protrudes further into the chain guide groove 54 of the chain guide 14 than the protruding component 50b of the inner plate 50.

[0072] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, with the chain guide attachment element 20 attached to the inner plate 50 of the chain guide 14, at least a portion of the second component 62 protrudes further into the chain guide groove 54 of the chain guide 14 than the protruding component 50b of the inner plate 50. Specifically, the second component 62 gradually thickens from its first end 62a to its second end 62b. Preferably, the second end 62b of the second component 62 protrudes further into the chain guide groove 54 of the chain guide 14 than the protruding component 50b of the inner plate 50. For example, the second end 62b of the second component 62 protrudes approximately 0.5 mm further into the chain guide groove 54 of the chain guide 14 than the protruding component 50b of the inner plate 50. Therefore, the chain CN is generally prevented from contacting the protruding component 50b of the inner plate 50. However, during an outward shift, the first component 60 may deflect inward toward the bicycle frame F relative to the second component 62, causing the chain CN to contact the protruding component 50b of the inner plate 50.

[0073] Referring now to Figures 15 to 18, a front derailleur 110 according to a second embodiment is shown. Given the similarity between the first and second embodiments, portions in the second embodiment that are identical to those in the first embodiment will be given the same element symbols as those in the first embodiment. Furthermore, for brevity, descriptions of portions in the second embodiment that are identical to those in the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0074] In the second embodiment, the front derailleur 110 differs from the front derailleur 10 in that the front derailleur 110 provides a modified chain guide 114 and a modified chain guide attachment element 120. Therefore, here, the front derailleur 110 includes a base member 12, a chain guide 114, a link assembly 16, and a chain guide attachment element 120.

[0075] In the second embodiment, the chain guide 114 includes an inner plate 150 and an outer plate 152. The inner plate 150 and the outer plate 152 are configured to form a chain guide groove 154 therebetween. In the second embodiment, the chain guide 114 also includes an upstream connecting member 156 and a downstream connecting member 158. In the second embodiment, the chain guide 114 is the same as the chain guide 14 of the front derailleur 10, except that the inner plate 150 has been modified. Here, the inner plate 150 has an inner surface 150a and a protruding member 150b, wherein the width of the protruding member 150b is wider than the width of the protruding member 50b of the chain guide 14, and the width of the inner surface 150a is smaller than the width of the inner surface 50a. The chain guide 114 operates in the same manner as the chain guide 14.

[0076] In the second embodiment, the chain guide attachment element 120 basically includes a first component 160, a second component 162, a connecting component 164, and a fixing component 166. The chain guide attachment element 120 is identical to the chain guide attachment element 20 of the front derailleur 10, except that the second component 162 of the chain guide attachment element 120 has been modified. Here, the width of the second component 162 is narrower than the width of the second component 62 of the chain guide attachment element 20. The chain guide attachment element 120 functions in the same manner as the chain guide attachment element 20.

[0077] Referring now to FIG19, a front derailleur 210 according to a third embodiment is shown. Here, the front derailleur 210 is an electric front derailleur, rather than a cable-operated derailleur. Given the similarities between the first and third embodiments, the description of the third embodiment will focus on the main differences of the third embodiment.

[0078] The front derailleur 210 includes a base member 212, a chain guide 214, and a linkage assembly 216. The base member 212 is configured to be mounted to a bicycle frame. The chain guide 214 is configured to be movable relative to the base member 212. Specifically, the linkage assembly 216 operatively couples the chain guide 214 to the base member 212 between a retracted position and an extended position to move the bicycle chain. The front derailleur 210 also includes an actuator 217 supported on the base member 212. Here, the actuator 217 has a reversible electric motor 217A, which is operatively connected to the linkage assembly 216 for moving the chain guide 214 between the retracted and extended positions.

[0079] The chain guide 214 includes an inner plate 250 and an outer plate 252. The inner plate 250 and outer plate 252 are configured to form a chain guide groove 254 therebetween. Here, the inner plate 250 includes an inner surface 250a facing the chain guide groove 254. The inner plate 250 also includes a protruding member 250b protruding from the inner surface 250a into the chain guide groove 254. The inner plate 250 is the same as the inner plate 50 described above, and the outer plate 252 is the same as the outer plate 52 described above. Therefore, the chain guide 214 has essentially the same construction as the chain guide 14 described above.

[0080] The chain guide 214 includes a chain guide attachment element 220. The chain guide attachment element 220 is the same as the chain guide attachment element 20 in the first embodiment. The chain guide attachment element 220 also includes a fixing member 266, which is configured to be attached to the chain guide 14. The fixing member 266 is not made of metal and is the same as the fixing member 66 described above.

[0081] In understanding the scope of this invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part," "section," "section," "component," or "element" used in the singular may have a dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0082] The following directional terms used herein, "facing the frame," "not facing the frame," "forward," "backward," "front," "rear," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "upright," "horizontal," "vertical," and "lateral," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to these orientations of a bicycle in an upright riding position with chain guide attachments. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe chain guide attachments should be interpreted relative to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface with chain guide attachments. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate the "right" side when referring to the right side as viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and to indicate the "left" side when referring to the left side as viewed from the rear of the bicycle.

[0083] The phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the desired options. For example, if there are two options, the phrase "at least one or at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single option" or "both of the two options". As another example, if there are three or more options, the phrase "at least one or at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single option" or "any combination of two or more options". Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "one or both of them".

[0084] Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various different components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of the invention, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa.

[0085] As used herein, the terms "attached" or "attached" encompass configurations in which one element is directly fixed to another element by attaching it directly to the other; configurations in which one or more intermediate components are attached to the other element by attaching it to the other element, and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is substantially part of another element. This definition also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as "joined," "connected," "coupled," "installed," "bonded," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, the degree terms used herein, such as "approximately or substantially," "probably or about," and "nearly or nearly," indicate a deviation of such magnitude that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0086] Although only selected embodiments are chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, components shown to be directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures disposed therebetween, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. The function of one element may be implemented by two elements, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages need not necessarily be presented simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each unique feature that differs from the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, should be considered a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such feature. Therefore, the above description of embodiments according to the present invention is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0087] 10: Front derailleur 12: Base components 14: Chain Guide 16: Connecting rod assembly 18: Operation cable 18a: Outer shell 18b: Inside player 20: Chain guide attachment element 22: Pipe clamp 22A: First clamping component 22B: Second clamping component 22C: Pivot 24: Fasteners 30: First connecting rod component 32: Second Linkage Member 34: Cable attachment bolts 36: Offset component 38: Pivot pin 40: Cable Reception Section 42: Stepped hole 44: Outer shell contact surface 46: First Largest Diameter Hole Section 48: Second smallest diameter hole segment 50: Inner Panel 50a:Inner surface 50b: Protruding component 52: Outer panel 54: Chain guide groove 56: Upstream connecting components 58: Downstream connection components 58a: Lug portion 58b: Open 60: First component 60a: Support 60b: Chain contact surface 62: Second component 62a: First end 62b: Second end 64: Connecting components 66: Fixed components 66a: Fastener opening 68: Fasteners 70: Joint (of the first component 60) 70a: First hook 72: Joint (of the second component 62) 72a: Second hook 74: Accommodation space 110: Front derailleur 114: Chain Guide 120: Chain guide attachment element 150: Inner Panel 150a: Inner surface 150b: Protruding component 152: Outer panel 154: Chain guide groove 156: Upstream connecting components 158: Downstream connection components 160: First component 162: Second component 164: Connecting components 166: Fixed components 210: Front derailleur 212: Base components 214: Chain Guide 216: Connecting rod assembly 217: Actuator 217A: Reversible Motor 220: Chain guide attachment element 250: Inner Panel 250a: Inner surface 252: Outer panel 254: Chain guide groove 266: Fixed components A: Central axis CA1: Crank arm CA2: Crank arm CD: Chain drive direction CN: Bicycle chain F: Bicycle frame FS: Front sprocket assembly R: Separation region S1: First sprocket S2: Second sprocket

Claims

1. A chain guide attachment element (20) for a chain guide (14) of a front derailleur (10), the chain guide attachment element (20) comprising: A first component (60) is configured to prevent the chain (CN) from detaching from the sprocket of the front sprocket assembly (FS) during inward shifting when the chain guide attachment element (20) is attached to the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14) and the front derailleur (10) is mounted to the bicycle frame (F); a second component (62); a connecting component (64) connecting the first component (60) and the second component (62); and a fixing component (66) configured to be attached to the chain guide (14), wherein the fixing component (66) does not contain metal material; the first component (60) is at least partially separated from the second component (62) at a separation area (R); and a receiving space (74) is defined at the location where the first component (60) and the second component (62) are separated. The receiving space (74) is configured to at least partially receive the protruding part (50b) of the inner plate (50); and with the chain guide attachment element (20) attached to the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14), at least a portion of the second part (62) protrudes further into the chain guide groove (54) of the chain guide (14) than the protruding part (50b) of the inner plate (50).

2. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 1, wherein the fixing member (66) includes a fastener opening (66a) configured to receive a fastener (68).

3. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 1, wherein the fixing member (66) is positioned adjacent to the connecting member (64).

4. A chain guide attachment element (20) for a chain guide (14) of a front derailleur (10), the chain guide attachment element (20) comprising: First component (60); A second component (62) is at least partially separated from the first component (60); a connecting component (64) connects the first component (60) and the second component (62); and a receiving space (74) is defined at a position separated from the first component (60) and the second component (62). The receiving space (74) is configured to at least partially receive the protruding part (50b) of the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14); wherein, with the chain guide attachment element (20) attached to the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14), at least a portion of the second part (62) protrudes further into the chain guide groove (54) of the chain guide (14) than the protruding part (50b) of the inner plate (50).

5. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 4 further includes: A fixing component (66) is configured to be attached to the chain guide (14), wherein the fixing component (66) does not contain metal material.

6. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 5, wherein the fixing member (66) includes a fastener opening (66a) configured to receive a fastener (68).

7. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the fixing member (66) is positioned adjacent to the connecting member (64).

8. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 6, wherein at least one of the first component (60) and the second component (62) includes a joint (70, 72) configured to engage with the inner plate (50).

9. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 8, wherein the first component (60) includes the engagement portion (70).

10. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 8, wherein the second component (62) includes the engagement portion (72).

11. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 8, wherein the engagement (70) includes a first hook (70a) provided to the first component (60).

12. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 8, wherein the engagement (72) includes a second hook (72a) provided to the second component (62).

13. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 6, wherein the first component (60) is configured to contact the chain (CN) during outward shifting operation.

14. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 6, wherein the first component (60) is configured to partially cover the inner surface (50a) of the inner plate (50), the inner surface (50a) facing the chain guide groove (54), wherein the chain guide attachment element (20) is attached to the inner plate (50).

15. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 6, wherein the first component (60), the second component (62) and the connecting component (64) are integral integral components.

16. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 6, wherein the first component (60), the second component (62) and the connecting component (64) are resin components.

17. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 and 4 to 6, wherein, in the state where the chain guide attachment element (20) is attached to the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14), at least a portion of the first member (60) protrudes further into the chain guide groove (54) of the chain guide (14) than the protruding member (50b) of the inner plate (50).

18. A front derailleur (10), comprising: The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 17; A base member (12) is configured to be mounted to the bicycle frame (F); a chain guide (14) is configured to be movable relative to the base member (12); and a linkage assembly (16) is operatively coupled to the chain guide (14) to the base member (12).

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