Clamp structure and bicycle front derailleur

Abstract

A clamp structure (31) is configured to mount a bicycle component to a bicycle frame (5) of a bicycle. The clamp structure (31) includes a first clamp member (33), a second clamp member (35), a fastening member (37), and a hinge member (39). The first clamp member (33) has a first fastening portion (41). The second clamp member (35) has a second fastening portion (61). The first hinge portion (43) has a clamp closure abutment (43c). The clamp closure abutment (43c) is configured to contact the bicycle frame (5) so that if the clamp closure abutment (43c) is pushed by the bicycle frame (5), the first fastening portion (41) and the second fastening portion (61) are brought closer to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a clamp structure and a bicycle front derailleur. Background Art

[0002] Bicycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation and transportation. In addition, bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals.

[0003] Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving the various systems of the bicycle. One bicycle system that has been extensively redesigned is the clamp structure. The clamp structure is used to mount bicycle components such as the front derailleur of the bicycle to the bicycle frame. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a clamp structure is provided for mounting a bicycle component on a bicycle frame. The clamp structure includes a first clamp member, a second clamp member, a fastening member, and a hinge member. The first clamp member includes a first fastening portion with a first fastening opening, a first hinge portion with at least one first hinge opening, and a first intermediate portion located between the first fastening portion and the first hinge portion. The second clamp member includes a second fastening portion with a second fastening opening, a second hinge portion with at least one second hinge opening, and a second intermediate portion located between the second fastening portion and the second hinge portion. The fastening member is configured to pass through the first and second fastening openings to fasten the first and second fastening portions relative to each other. The hinge member is configured to pass through the at least one first hinge opening and the at least one second hinge opening to pivotally couple the first and second hinge portions to each other. The first hinge portion includes a clamp closure abutment. The clamp closure abutment is configured to contact the bicycle frame so that when the clamp closure abutment is pushed by the bicycle frame, the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are brought closer together.

[0005] According to the first aspect of the clamp structure, when the bicycle component is mounted on a bicycle frame, the clamp closing abutment portion of the first hinge portion is pushed by the bicycle frame. The first fastening portion and the second hinge portion then approach each other. Thus, the clamp structure can efficiently mount the bicycle component on the bicycle frame.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the clip structure according to the first aspect is configured so that the clip closing abutment is located on the side opposite to the first intermediate portion with respect to the at least one first hinge opening. According to the clip structure of the second aspect, by arranging the clip closing abutment in this configuration, the clip structure can more efficiently mount the bicycle component to the bicycle frame.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the clip structure according to the second aspect is configured such that the clip closing abutment and at least a portion of the first intermediate portion form a rack contact surface. The rack contact surface is configured to contact the bicycle frame when the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are fastened together by the fastening member. According to the clip structure of the third aspect, since the rack contact surface is formed not only by at least a portion of the first intermediate portion but also by the clip closing abutment, the contact area of ​​the rack contact surface with the bicycle frame is increased. Therefore, the increased contact area prevents displacement of the clip structure even when an external force is applied to the clip structure when the clip structure is attached to the bicycle frame.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the clamp structure according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured so that the first hinge portion has an abutment stopper. The abutment stopper is configured to prevent the clamp structure from excessively opening by contacting the second clamp member. According to the clamp structure of the fourth aspect, since the abutment stopper prevents the clamp structure from excessively opening, the clamp structure can effectively and securely attach a bicycle component to a bicycle frame.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the clip structure according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured so that at least one of the first middle portion and the second middle portion is curved. According to the clip structure of the fifth aspect, when the bicycle frame has a circular cross-section, the clip structure can securely attach the bicycle component to the bicycle frame.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the clamp structure according to the fifth aspect is configured so that both the first middle portion and the second middle portion are curved. According to the clamp structure of the sixth aspect, when the cross-section of the bicycle frame is formed into a circular shape, the clamp structure can firmly attach the bicycle component to the bicycle frame.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the clip structure according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured so that the clip closing abutment portion includes a corner. According to the clip structure of the seventh aspect, by causing the corner of the clip closing abutment portion to contact against the bicycle frame, the clip structure can more efficiently mount the bicycle component to the bicycle frame.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the clamp structure according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured as follows. The fastening member has a fastening center axis. The hinge member has a hinge center axis. When the clamp structure is in a fastened state, the fastening center axis intersects the hinge center axis. According to the clamp structure of the eighth aspect, the clamp structure can more efficiently mount a bicycle component to a bicycle frame.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the clamp structure according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured as follows. The first fastening opening is an elongated opening. The second fastening opening is a circular opening. According to the ninth aspect of the clamp structure, since the first fastening opening is an elongated opening, the clamp member can properly maintain the proper positioning of the fastening member when the fastening member fastens the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the clip structure according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is configured so that the first clip member includes a first side wall, a second side wall, and a bottom wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall. According to the tenth aspect, by forming the clip structure into this configuration, the clip structure can be reduced in weight.

[0015] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the clip structure according to the tenth aspect is configured such that the first side wall and the second side wall are connected to each other around the first fastening opening. According to the eleventh aspect of the clip structure, by forming the clip structure in this configuration, the clip structure can be reduced in weight. Furthermore, the clip structure can enhance the strength of the first fastening portion.

[0016] In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle derailleur includes the clamp structure according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects.

[0017] According to the clip structure of the twelfth aspect, it is possible to provide a front derailleur that can be efficiently mounted to a bicycle frame. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Selected embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure, in which

[0019] Figure 1 is a side view of a bicycle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 2 is a front view of a clip structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a first clamp member of a clamp structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3B is a front view of a first clamping member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3C is a side view of a first clamp member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first clamping member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 5Ais a front view of a second clamping member of a clamping structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 5B is a side view of a second clamp member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 6A is a front view of a second clamping member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6B is a side view of a second clamp member according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 7A is a front view of a clamp structure according to an embodiment of the present invention before fastening first and second clamp members;

[0030] Figure 7B is a front view of a clamp structure according to an embodiment of the present invention before fastening first and second clamp members;

[0031] Figure 7C is a front view of the clamp structure according to an embodiment of the present invention when the first and second clamp members are fastened;

[0032] Figure 8 is a front view of a clip structure according to a modified embodiment;

[0033] Figure 9A is a partially enlarged front view of a clip closure abutment according to another embodiment;

[0034] Figure 9B FIG. 1 is a partially enlarged front view of a clip closing abutment according to yet another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and are not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0036] In the following embodiments, if a plurality of members and components correspond to each other, the corresponding members and components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle 1 includes a bicycle chain 3, a bicycle frame 5, a handlebar 7, a front wheel 9 and a rear wheel 11, a gear shifting device 13, a drive train 15, and a front fork 17. The bicycle 1 also includes a bicycle front hub assembly 18, a bicycle rear hub assembly 19, a bicycle front derailleur 21, and a bicycle rear derailleur 23.

[0038] A front fork 17 is rotatably mounted to the bicycle frame 5. The handlebar 7 is fixed to the front fork 17. The front wheel 9 is rotatably mounted to the front fork 17. The rear wheel 11 is rotatably mounted to the rear portion of the bicycle frame 5 via a bicycle rear hub assembly 19. A front tire 9a is mounted to the front wheel 9. A rear tire 11a is mounted to the rear wheel 11.

[0039] The shifting device 13 is mounted to the handlebar 7. The shifting device 13 operates a bicycle front derailleur 21 and a bicycle rear derailleur 23 through control cables.

[0040] The transmission system 15 mainly includes a crank assembly 25 and a bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27. Specifically, the transmission system 15 mainly includes a bicycle rear hub assembly 19, a crank assembly 25 and a bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27. A bicycle chain 3 can be included in the transmission system 15.

[0041] The crank assembly 25 is rotatably supported on the lower portion of the bicycle frame 5. The crank assembly 25 includes at least one bicycle front sprocket. In this embodiment, the crank assembly 25 includes a plurality of bicycle front sprockets that engage with the bicycle chain 3. The following describes the construction of the bicycle front derailleur 21.

[0042] The bicycle rear hub assembly 19 is mounted on the rear portion of the bicycle frame 5. The bicycle rear hub assembly 19 rotatably supports a bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27 is mounted to the bicycle rear hub assembly 19. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27 includes a plurality of bicycle rear sprockets that engage with the bicycle chain 3.

[0043] The bicycle rear derailleur 23 is mounted to the bicycle frame 5. The bicycle rear derailleur 23 is mounted to the rear portion of the bicycle frame 5. The bicycle rear derailleur 23 moves the bicycle chain 3 from one bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27 to another bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27 via the shifting device 13. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 27 is shifted by the shifting device 13. Figure 1 A simplified description is shown in FIG.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle front derailleur 21 is mounted to the bicycle frame 5. For example, the bicycle front derailleur 21 is mounted to the seat tube 6 of the bicycle frame 5.

[0045] The bicycle front derailleur 21 includes a clamp structure 31. Specifically, the bicycle front derailleur 21 includes a derailleur device 30 and a clamp structure 31.

[0046] The derailleur device 30 moves the bicycle chain 3 from one of the plurality of bicycle front sprockets to another of the plurality of bicycle front sprockets by operating the shift device 13. Figure 1 The derailleur device 30 is mounted to the clamp structure 31 .

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the clamp structure 31 is mounted to the bicycle frame 5. For example, the clamp structure 31 is mounted to the seat tube 6 of the bicycle frame 5. The seat tube 6 has Figure 2 A first diameter D1 is shown.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, a clamp structure 31 is configured to mount a bicycle component to a bicycle frame 5 of a bicycle 1. In this embodiment, the bicycle component is a derailleur device 30. However, the clamp structure 31 according to the present invention can be used with bicycle components other than the derailleur device 30. The clamp structure 31 includes a first clamp member 33, a second clamp member 35, a fastening member 37, and a hinge member 39.

[0049] like Figure 3A and 3B As shown, the first clamp member 33 has a first fastening portion 41, a first hinge portion 43, and a first intermediate portion 45 located between the first fastening portion 41 and the first hinge portion 43. The first fastening portion 41 has a first fastening opening 41b, and the first hinge portion 43 has at least one first hinge opening 43b. The first clamp member 33 also has a first inner surface 46.

[0050] The first fastening portion 41 is formed integrally with the first middle portion 45. The first fastening portion 41 includes a first fastening opening 41b. For example, the first fastening portion 41 includes a first fastening body 41a and a first fastening opening 41b.

[0051] The first fastening opening 41b is provided on the first fastening body 41a. The first fastening opening 41b penetrates the first fastening body 41a. The first fastening opening 41b is preferably an elongated opening, such as Figure 3A and Figure 3B However, the first fastening opening 41b may be a circular opening.

[0052] like Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown, the first hinge portion 43 is integrally formed with the first intermediate portion 45. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the first hinge portion 43 includes a pair of first hinge openings 43b, a clip-closing abutment portion 43c, and an abutment stopper portion 43d.

[0053] Specifically, if Figure 3A and Figure 3BAs shown, the first hinge portion 43 includes a first hinge body 43a, a first hinge opening 43b, a clip closure abutment 43c and an abutment stop 43d. In this embodiment, the first hinge portion 43 includes a first hinge body 43a, a pair of first hinge openings 43b, a clip closure abutment 43c and an abutment stop 43d.

[0054] like Figure 3A As shown, a pair of first hinge openings 43b are provided on the first hinge body 43a. Each first hinge opening 43b penetrates the first hinge body 43a. Each first hinge opening 43b is preferably an elongated opening. However, one or both of the first hinge openings 43b can be a circular opening.

[0055] The clip closing abutment 43c is configured to contact the bicycle frame 5 so that if the clip closing abutment 43c is pushed by the bicycle frame 5, the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 are brought closer to each other. Figure 7B shown.

[0056] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the clip closure abutment 43 c is located on the opposite side of the first intermediate portion 45 with respect to the at least one first hinge opening 43 b.

[0057] For example, when observing the first clamp member 33 from outside the first clamp member 33 along the hinge center axis X2, the clamp closing abutment 43c is located on the opposite side of the first middle portion 45 with respect to the hinge center axis X2 of the hinge member 39.

[0058] The clip closing abutment 43 c is provided on the first hinge body 43 a . For example, the clip closing abutment 43 c is provided on the first hinge body 43 a to contact the bicycle frame 5 .

[0059] The clamp closing abutment portion 43c includes a corner 43c1 formed to be an acute angle when the first clamp member 33 is viewed from the outside of the first clamp member 33 in the direction along the hinge center axis X2.

[0060] The abutment stopper 43d is configured to prevent the clamp structure 31 from being excessively opened by coming into contact with the second clamp member 35. The abutment stopper 43d is provided on the first hinge body 43a.

[0061] The abutment stopper 43d protrudes from the first hinge body 43a. The abutment stopper 43d protrudes from the first hinge body 43a on the side opposite to the first middle portion 45 with respect to the first hinge opening 43b.

[0062] For example, when observing the first clamping member 33 from the outside of the first clamping member 33 along the direction of the hinge center axis X2, the abutment stopper 43d extends from the first hinge body 43a on the side opposite to the first middle part 45 with respect to the hinge center axis X2 of the hinge member 39.

[0063] like Figure 7A As shown, the abutment stopper 43d contacts the second middle portion 65 so that the first clamp member 33 and the second clamp member 35 do not open excessively relative to each other. For example, the abutment stopper 43d contacts the outer surface of the second middle portion 65.

[0064] At least one of the first middle portion 45 and the second middle portion 65 is curved. Figure 3B and Figure 5A As shown, both the first intermediate portion 45 and the second intermediate portion 65 are curved. The construction of the second intermediate portion 65 is described below.

[0065] like Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 3C As shown, the first intermediate portion 45 is disposed between the first fastening portion 41 and the first hinge portion 43. In this embodiment, the first intermediate portion 45 is integrally formed with the first fastening portion 41 and the first hinge portion 43 as a single, unitary member.

[0066] like Figure 2 、 Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the first inner surface 46 is formed by the clip closing abutment 43c and the first middle portion 45. For example, the first inner surface 46 partially contacts the bicycle frame 5.

[0067] The first inner surface 46 is curved. For example, the first inner surface 46 is curved around the outer peripheral surface of the bicycle frame 5. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the bicycle frame 5 is the outer peripheral surface 6a of the seat tube 6.

[0068] The first inner surface 46 includes a rack contact surface 47. For example, the clip closure abutment 43c and at least a portion of the first intermediate portion 45 form the rack contact surface 47. The rack contact surface 47 is configured to contact the bicycle frame 5 when the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 are fastened by the fastening member 37. Figure 2 shown.

[0069] In this embodiment, the rack contact surface 47 of the first inner surface 46 includes a first rack contact surface 47a, a second rack contact surface 47b, and a third rack contact surface 47c. However, the rack contact surface 47 of the first inner surface 46 may include two or more than three rack contact surfaces, or a single rack contact surface. For example, Figure 3AAs shown, the rack contact surface 47 includes a pair of first rack contact surfaces 47a, a pair of second rack contact surfaces 47b and a pair of third rack contact surfaces 47c.

[0070] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first inner surface 46 contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5 at a pair of first frame contact surfaces 47a, a pair of second frame contact surfaces 47b, and a pair of third frame contact surfaces 47c. However, depending on the shape and / or size of the bicycle frame 5 that contacts the frame contact surfaces 47 of the first inner surface 46, the entire first inner surface 46 may be the frame contact surface 47.

[0071] A pair of first rack contact surfaces 47a are provided on the first hinge portion 43 including the clip closing abutment 43c. A pair of second rack contact surfaces 47b and a pair of third rack contact surfaces 47c are provided on the first intermediate portion 45.

[0072] For example, a pair of second rack contact surfaces 47b are provided on the first hinge portion side of the first middle portion 45. A pair of third rack contact surfaces 47c are provided on the first fastening portion side of the first middle portion 45.

[0073] The construction of the first clamping member 33 may be as follows. Figure 4 As shown, the first clamp member 33 includes a first side wall 51 , a second side wall 53 , and a bottom wall 55 extending between the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53 .

[0074] The first side wall 51 is arranged around the bicycle frame 5. The first side wall 51 is formed in a plate shape. The first side wall 51 includes a first hinge opening 43b. In other words, the first hinge opening 43b is formed on the first side wall 51. The first hinge opening 43b penetrates the first side wall 51.

[0075] The first side wall 51 includes a first curved surface 57. The first curved surface 57 is included in the frame contact surface 47. The first curved surface 57 partially contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5.

[0076] For example, the first curved surface 57 includes a first rack contact surface 47a, a second rack contact surface 47b, and a third rack contact surface 47c. In this embodiment, the first curved surface 57 contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5 at the first rack contact surface 47a, the second rack contact surface 47b, and the third rack contact surface 47c.

[0077] The second side wall 53 is arranged to face the first side wall 51. The second side wall 53 is arranged around the bicycle frame 5. The second side wall 53 is formed in a plate shape. The second side wall 53 includes a first hinge opening 43b. In other words, the first hinge opening 43b is formed in the second side wall 53. The first hinge opening 43b penetrates the second side wall 53.

[0078] The second side wall 53 includes a second curved surface 59. The second curved surface 59 is included in the frame contact surface 47. The second curved surface 59 partially contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5.

[0079] For example, the second curved surface 59 includes the first rack contact surface 47a, the second rack contact surface 47b, and the third rack contact surface 47c. In this embodiment, the second curved surface 59 contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5 at the first rack contact surface 47a, the second rack contact surface 47b, and the third rack contact surface 47c.

[0080] The first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53 are connected to each other around the first fastening opening 41b. For example, the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53 are connected to each other around the end portion of the bottom wall 55. For example, the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53 are integrally formed with each other as a single unitary member.

[0081] The bottom wall 55 extends along the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53 between the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53. The bottom wall 55 is integrally formed with the first side wall 51 and the second side wall 53 as a single, unitary member.

[0082] The bottom wall 55 is formed in a plate shape. The bottom wall 55 is curved. The bottom wall 55 includes a first fastening opening 41b. In other words, the first fastening opening 41b is formed on the bottom wall 55. The first fastening opening 41b penetrates the bottom wall 55. For example, the first fastening opening 41b penetrates the end portion of the bottom wall 55.

[0083] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the second clamp member 35 has a second fastening portion 61 with a second fastening opening 61b, a second hinge portion 63 with at least one second hinge opening 63b, and a second intermediate portion 65 located between the second fastening portion 61 and the second hinge portion 63. The second clamp member 35 also has a second inner surface 66.

[0084] The second fastening portion 61 is formed integrally with the second middle portion 65. The second fastening portion 61 includes a second fastening opening 61b. For example, the second fastening portion 61 includes a second fastening body 61a and a second fastening opening 61b.

[0085] The second fastening opening 61b is provided on the second fastening body 61a. The second fastening opening 61b penetrates the second fastening body 61a. The second fastening opening 61b is a circular opening.

[0086] The second hinge portion 63 is formed integrally with the second middle portion 65. The second hinge portion 63 includes at least one second hinge opening 63b. For example, the second hinge portion 63 includes a second hinge body 63a and a pair of second hinge openings 63b.

[0087] A pair of second hinge openings 63b are provided on the second hinge body 63a. Each second hinge opening 63b penetrates the second hinge body 63a. Each second hinge opening 63b is a circular opening. However, one or both of the second hinge openings 63b may be an elongated opening.

[0088] The second intermediate portion 65 is provided between the second fastening portion 61 and the second hinge portion 63. In this embodiment, the second intermediate portion 65 is integrally formed with the second fastening portion 61 and the second hinge portion 63 as a single, unitary member.

[0089] like Figure 5A As shown, the second inner surface 66 is formed by the second intermediate portion 65. For example, in this embodiment, the second inner surface 66 partially contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5. The second inner surface 66 is curved. For example, the second inner surface 66 curves around the outer peripheral surface of the bicycle frame 5 (e.g., the outer peripheral surface 6a of the seat tube 6).

[0090] The second inner surface 66 includes a rack contact surface 67. For example, the second middle portion 65 forms the rack contact surface 67. The rack contact surface 67 is configured to contact the bicycle rack 5 when the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 are fastened by the fastening member 37. Figure 2 In this embodiment, the rack contact surface 67 of the second inner surface 66 includes a fourth rack contact surface 67a and a fifth rack contact surface 67b. However, the rack contact surface 67 of the second inner surface 66 may include more than two rack contact surfaces or a single rack contact surface.

[0091] Specifically, in this embodiment, the second inner surface 66 contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5 at the fourth and fifth rack contact surfaces 67a and 67b. However, depending on the shape and / or size of the bicycle frame 5 that contacts the rack contact surfaces 67 of the second inner surface 66, the entire second inner surface 66 may be the rack contact surface 67.

[0092] For example, a fourth rack contact surface 67a and a fifth rack contact surface 67b are provided on the second middle portion 65. For example, the fourth rack contact surface 67a is provided on the second hinge portion side of the second middle portion 65. The fifth rack contact surface 67b is formed on the second fastening portion side of the second middle portion 65.

[0093] The second clamping member 35 may be constructed as follows. Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the second clamp member 35 includes a main body 71 , a first hinge wall 73 and a second hinge wall 75 .

[0094] The main body 71 is arranged around the bicycle frame 5. The main body 71 includes a second fastening portion 61 and a second middle portion 65. The second fastening portion 61 is provided on an end portion of the main body 71. The second middle portion 65 extends from the second fastening portion 61 in an arc shape.

[0095] In this embodiment, the main body 71 partially contacts the outer peripheral surface 6a of the bicycle frame 5. The main body 71 includes a second inner surface 66. The second inner surface 66 includes a frame contact surface 67. The frame contact surface 67 includes a fourth frame contact surface 67a and a fifth frame contact surface 67b.

[0096] like Figure 2 As shown, the bicycle front derailleur 21 is mounted to the first hinge wall 73. The first hinge wall 73 is provided on the other end portion of the main body 71 such that the first hinge wall 73 is arranged opposite to the second fastening portion 61 with respect to the main body 71.

[0097] The first hinge wall 73 includes one of a pair of second hinge openings 63 b. The second hinge opening 63 b is formed on the first hinge wall 73. The second hinge opening 63 b penetrates the first hinge wall 73.

[0098] The second hinge wall 75 is provided on the main body 71 so as to face the first hinge wall 73. The second hinge wall 75 includes the other of the pair of second hinge openings 63b. The second hinge opening 63b is formed on the second hinge wall 75. The second hinge opening 63b penetrates the second hinge wall 75. Therefore, the second hinge portion 63 includes the first hinge wall 73 and the second hinge wall 75.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, the fastening member 37 is configured to pass through the first fastening opening 41 b and the second fastening opening 61 b ​​to fasten the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 relative to each other.

[0100] For example, the fastening member 37 is a bolt. Figure 3B As shown, the bolt head 37a of the fastening member 37 abuts against the first fastening portion 41. Figure 3B and Figure 5A As shown, the bolt shank 37b of the fastening member 37 passes through the first fastening opening 41b and the second fastening opening 61b. The bolt shank 37b of the fastening member 37 is screwed into the second fastening opening 61b. As a result, the bolt shank 37b of the fastening member 37 and the second fastening opening 61b are threadedly engaged with each other, so that the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 are fastened by the fastening member 37.

[0101] Therefore, the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 clamp the bicycle frame 5 , for example, the seat tube 6 .

[0102] like Figure 3B and Figure 5A As shown, the fastening member 37 has a fastening center axis X1 , which passes through the first fastening opening 41 b and the second fastening opening 61 b ​​.

[0103] like Figure 2 、 Figure 3B and Figure 5A As shown, the hinge member 39 is configured to pass through the at least one first hinge opening 43b and the at least one second hinge opening 63b to pivotally couple the first hinge portion 43 and the second hinge portion 63 to each other.

[0104] The hinge member 39 has a hinge center axis X2. Figure 2 As shown, in the tightened state of the clamp structure 31, the tightening center axis X1 intersects the hinge center axis X2. The tightening state is when the tightening member 37 tightens the first tightening portion 41 and the second tightening portion 61 relative to each other. The hinge member 39 includes a bolt and a nut. For example, the bolt head of the hinge member 39 abuts against the first hinge wall 73 of the second hinge portion 63 around one of the pair of second hinge openings 63b. The bolt shank of the hinge member 39 passes through the pair of first hinge openings 43b and the pair of second hinge openings 63b. The nut of the hinge member 39 abuts against the second hinge wall 75 of the second hinge portion 63 around the other of the pair of second hinge openings 63b. The bolt shank of the hinge member 39 is tightened to the nut of the hinge member 39.

[0105] Therefore, the second clamp member 35 pivotably supports the first clamp member 33 via the hinge member 39 .

[0106] The above-mentioned clamp structure 31 is mounted to the bicycle frame 5 in the following manner. First, Figure 7A As shown, the clamp structure 31 is in an open state where the first fastening portion 41 of the first clamp member 33 is separated from the second fastening portion 61 of the second clamp member 35, and is approaching the seat tube 6. The open state may be a state where the abutment stopper 43d contacts the second clamp member 35 (e.g., the outer surface of the second intermediate portion 65).

[0107] Then, if Figure 7B As shown in FIG. 4 , when the clamp closing abutment portion 43 c abuts against the seat tube 6, the first fastening portion 41 moves closer to the second fastening portion 61. Figure 7C As shown, the seat tube 6 is disposed between the first clamp member 33 and the second clamp member 35. The rack contact surface 47 of the first clamp member 33 and the rack contact surface 67 of the second clamp member 35 contact the outer peripheral surface 6a of the seat tube 6.

[0108] In this embodiment, the rack contact surface 47 of the first clamp member 33 includes a pair of first rack contact surfaces 47a, a pair of second rack contact surfaces 47b, and a pair of third rack contact surfaces 47c. In this embodiment, the rack contact surface 67 of the second clamp member 35 includes a fourth rack contact surface 67a and a fifth rack contact surface 67b.

[0109] Finally, if Figure 7C As shown, the seat tube 6 is clamped by the first clamp member 33 and the second clamp member 35 by attaching the fastening member 37 to the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61. In this state, if each of the pair of first hinge openings 43b is an elongated opening and each of the pair of second hinge openings 63b is a circular opening, or if each of the pair of first hinge openings 43b is a circular opening and each of the pair of second hinge openings 63b is an elongated opening, the hinge member 39 is arranged on the side of the first hinge opening 43b close to the seat tube 6.

[0110] As a variation of the above embodiment, the clip structure 31 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 5 , for example, the seat tube 6 , in the following manner.

[0111] In this variation, Figure 8 As shown, the seat tube 6 has a second diameter D2. The second diameter D2 of the seat tube 6 is smaller than Figure 2 The first diameter D1 of the seat tube 6 of the above embodiment is shown. The configuration of the clamp structure 31 of this modification is the same as the configuration of the one of the clamp structures 31 of the above embodiment.

[0112] In this case, when the first fastening portion 41 and the second fastening portion 61 are fastened by the fastening member 37 , the frame contact surface 47 of the first clamp member 33 and the frame contact surface 67 of the second clamp member 35 contact the outer peripheral surface 6 a of the seat tube 6 .

[0113] The rack contact surface 47 of the first clamp member 33 includes a pair of sixth rack contact surfaces 147a provided on the first intermediate portion 45. The rack contact surface 67 of the second clamp member 35 includes a seventh rack contact surface 167a provided on the second intermediate portion 65.

[0114] The frame contact surface 47 of the first clamp member 33 and the frame contact surface 67 of the second clamp member 35 contact the outer peripheral surface 6a of the seat tube 6 at the pair of sixth frame contact surfaces 147a and the seventh frame contact surface 167a. In this state, if each of the pair of first hinge openings 43b is an elongated opening and each of the pair of second hinge openings 63b is a circular opening, or if each of the pair of first hinge openings 43b is a circular opening and each of the pair of second hinge openings 63b is an elongated opening, the hinge member 39 is arranged on the side of the first hinge opening 43b that is away from the seat tube 6.

[0115] As another embodiment of the above-described embodiment, the clip structure 31 may be constructed as follows.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the clamp structure 31 is explained by taking an example in which the clamp structure 31 is mounted to the seat tube 6. The clamp structure 31 may be mounted to a portion of the bicycle frame 5 other than the seat tube 6.

[0117] In the above-described embodiment, the corner 43c1 of the clip closing abutment portion 43c is explained by taking the example in which the corner 43c1 is formed as an acute angle.

[0118] The angle 43c1 may be formed to be at least one of an acute angle, an obtuse angle, a straight line, and a curved line when the first clamp member 33 is viewed from the outside of the first clamp member 33 in the direction along the hinge center axis X2.

[0119] like Figure 3B As shown in FIG. 1 , in the above embodiment, the corner 43c1 is formed as an acute angle. Figure 9A As shown, the corner 43c2 can be formed as a straight line. Figure 9B As shown, corner 43c2 may be formed as a curve.

[0120] In the above embodiment, the first hinge opening 43b and the second hinge opening 63b are explained by an example in which the first hinge opening 43b is an elongated opening and the second hinge opening 63b is a circular opening. Alternatively, the first hinge opening 43b may be a circular opening and the second hinge opening 63b may be an elongated opening.

[0121] Reference numerals

[0122] 1 bicycle

[0123] 3 Bicycle chains

[0124] 5. Bicycle rack

[0125] 6 Seatpost

[0126] 6a Outer surface

[0127] 7 handles

[0128] 9 front wheels

[0129] 9a front tire

[0130] 11 rear wheel

[0131] 11a rear tire

[0132] 13 Gear shifter

[0133] 15 Drivetrain

[0134] 17 front fork

[0135] 18 Bicycle front hub assembly

[0136] 19 Bicycle rear hub assembly

[0137] 21 Bicycle front derailleur

[0138] 23 Bicycle rear derailleur

[0139] 25 crank assembly

[0140] 27 Bicycle rear sprocket assembly

[0141] 30 Derailleur unit

[0142] 31 Clip structure

[0143] 33 First clamping member

[0144] 35 Second clamping member

[0145] 37 Fastening components

[0146] 37a Bolt head

[0147] 37b Bolt shank

[0148] 39 hinged member

[0149] 41 First fastening part

[0150] 41a First fastening body

[0151] 41b First fastening opening

[0152] 43 First hinge part

[0153] 43a First hinge

[0154] 43b First hinged opening

[0155] 43c Clip closure abutment

[0156] 43c1 angle

[0157] 45 First middle section

[0158] 46 first inner surface

[0159] 47 contact surfaces

[0160] 47a First contact surface

[0161] 47b Second contact surface

[0162] 47c Third contact surface

[0163] 51 First side wall

[0164] 53 Second side wall

[0165] 55 bottom wall

[0166] 57 first curved surface

[0167] 59 second curved surface

[0168] 61 Second fastening part

[0169] 61b Second fastening opening

[0170] 61a Second fastening body

[0171] 63 Second hinge part

[0172] 63a Second hinged body

[0173] 63b Second hinged opening

[0174] 65 Second middle section

[0175] 66 Second inner surface

[0176] 67 contact surfaces

[0177] 67a Fourth contact surface

[0178] 67b Fifth contact surface

[0179] 71 Subject

[0180] 73 First hinged wall

[0181] 75 Second hinged wall

[0182] 147a A pair of sixth frame contact surfaces

[0183] 167a Seventh contact surface

[0184] D1 First diameter

[0185] D2 Second diameter

[0186] X1 Fastening center axis

[0187] X2 articulated centerline

Claims

1. A clamp structure configured to mount a bicycle component to a bicycle frame, the clamp structure comprising: a first clamp member having a first fastening portion with a first fastening opening, a first hinge portion with at least one first hinge opening, and a first intermediate portion between the first fastening portion and the first hinge portion; a second clamp member having a second fastening portion with a second fastening opening, a second hinge portion with at least one second hinge opening, and a second intermediate portion between the second fastening portion and the second hinge portion; a fastening member configured to pass through the first fastening opening and the second fastening opening to fasten the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion relative to each other; and a hinge member configured to pass through the at least one first hinge opening and the at least one second hinge opening to pivotally couple the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion to each other; The first hinge portion has a clip closing abutment configured to contact the bicycle frame so that if the clip closing abutment is pushed by the bicycle frame, the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are moved closer to each other. The first clamp member includes a first side wall, a second side wall, and a bottom wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall, The clip closure abutment is formed on the first side wall and the second side wall, the clip closure abutment is located on the side opposite to the first middle portion with respect to the at least one first hinge opening, and the clip closure abutment includes a corner formed on the first side wall and the second side wall, The first hinge portion has an abutment stop portion, which is configured to prevent the clamp structure from over-opening by contacting the outer surface of the second middle portion of the second clamp member, and the abutment stop portion is formed on the second side wall, extends from the clamp closing abutment portion along the second side wall to the bottom wall and protrudes from the first hinge portion.

2. The clip structure according to claim 1, characterized in that The clip closure abutment and at least a portion of the first intermediate portion form a rack contact surface configured to contact the bicycle rack when the first fastening portion and the second fastening portion are fastened by the fastening member.

3. The clamp structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: At least one of the first middle portion and the second middle portion is curved.

4. The clip structure according to claim 3, characterized in that Both the first middle portion and the second middle portion are curved.

5. The clamp structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The fastening member has a fastening central axis; The hinge member has a hinge center axis; and In the fastened state of the clamping structure, the fastening center axis intersects the articulation center axis.

6. The clamp structure according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The first fastening opening is an elongated opening; and The second fastening opening is a circular opening.

7. The clip structure according to claim 1, wherein: The first side wall and the second side wall are connected to each other around the first fastening opening.

8. A bicycle front derailleur comprising: A clip structure according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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