Hinges containing unlocking components

Abstract

A hinge (10) includes: a first tube (12) and a second tube (14) pivotable relative to the first tube between an unfolded position and a folded position; a locking element (20) pivotally mounted to the first tube between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position it holds the second tube in the unfolded position and in the open position it allows the second tube to be displaced in the folded position; an unlocking member (30) configured to move the locking element from its closed position to its open position when it is placed in the active position; and a means (50) for actuating the unlocking member, configured to move the unlocking member to the active position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of folding bicycles, and more particularly to hinge components for folding bicycles. Background Technology

[0002] Traditionally, the frame, stem, or seatpost of a folding bicycle includes a hinge that comprises a first tube and a second tube, the second tube being mounted in a manner that allows it to pivot relative to the first tube. The second tube can be positioned in both a folded and an unfolded position.

[0003] These hinges on folding bicycles are typically equipped with a locking element that keeps the second tube in the unfolded position when the locking element is in the closed position. This locking element takes the form of a lever that interacts with both tubes.

[0004] For safety reasons, when using a bicycle, such locking elements can optionally be held in the closed position by means of a reset mechanism.

[0005] After use, and when the user wishes to fold the bicycle, the user needs to operate the locking element to place it in the open position, in which the locking element allows the second tube to be placed in the folded position.

[0006] The fact that the locking element needs to be manually positioned in the open position demonstrates its complexity and requires considerable effort from the user. The fact that the locking element may be even more difficult to access further complicates the opening process.

[0007] Therefore, users face the risk of not being able to properly open the locking mechanism and will encounter difficulties when folding their bicycles. Furthermore, users also face the risk of injury, such as their fingers getting caught while operating the locking mechanism.

[0008] Furthermore, since the hinge is usually located near the wheel, the locking element may be covered in mud. Therefore, actuating the lever may get the user's hands dirty. Summary of the Invention

[0009] One object of the present invention is to provide an articulation for a folding bicycle that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0010] Therefore, the present invention relates to a hinge for a folding bicycle, the hinge comprising:

[0011] - First tube portion (tube fitting section);

[0012] - A second tube section, which is pivotally mounted relative to the first tube section between an unfolded position and a folded position about a first pivot axis;

[0013] - A locking element pivotally mounted to the first tube about a second pivot axis, the locking element having: at least one closed position in which the locking element holds the second tube in the unfolded position; and an open position in which the locking element allows the second tube to be displaced in a folded position by pivoting the second tube relative to the first tube about a first pivot axis;

[0014] - An unlocking member having a neutral position and an active position, the unlocking member being configured such that, when placed in the active position, it can move the locking element from its closed position to its open position; and

[0015] - A device for actuating the unlocking member, which is configured to move the unlocking member to the active position.

[0016] Without limitation, the first and second tubes may be part of the stem, handlebars, frame, or seatpost of a folding bicycle. The first and second tubes extend along a first longitudinal direction and a second longitudinal direction, respectively. The first pivot axis is preferably transverse to the first and second longitudinal directions.

[0017] In the folded position, the second longitudinal direction of the second tube forms an angle with the first longitudinal direction of the first tube. In the unfolded position, the second tube extends substantially within the extension of the first tube. The second longitudinal direction and the first longitudinal direction are substantially parallel and preferably collinear. In the unfolded position, the first and second longitudinal directions may also be slightly inclined relative to each other while maintaining their respective extensions.

[0018] The locking element advantageously forms a lever pivotally mounted between the closed and open positions. The second pivot axis is preferably parallel to the first pivot axis and transverse to the first longitudinal direction of the first tube.

[0019] When the locking element is in the closed position, it advantageously interacts with the second tube to hold it in the unfolded position and prevent it from folding. Furthermore, the locking element is adjacent to and preferably presses against the second tube. The locking element preferably extends generally parallel to the second tube.

[0020] Non-limitingly, the hinge may include a connecting member having a first end and a second end, the first end being pivotally mounted to an end of a locking element, and the second end being pivotally mounted to a second tube. In this closed position, the locking element applies a force to the connecting member, which transmits this force to the second tube. This force is generally directed towards the first tube, tending to hold the second tube in the extended position.

[0021] In the open position, the locking element is preferably inclined relative to the second tube.

[0022] Non-limitingly, the unlocking member can be mounted on either the first or second tube section. The unlocking member is preferably positioned between the tube section (on which the unlocking member is mounted) and the locking element. The unlocking member is preferably in the form of a cam and is capable of applying force to the locking element when it is in the active position. This force drives the locking element from its closed position to its open position.

[0023] Without limitation, the unlocking component can limit rotational or translational movement between the neutral and active positions.

[0024] Using the actuation device, the user can easily and quickly activate the unlocking component, thereby moving the locking element to the open position.

[0025] Thus, the unlocking member and actuation device of the hinge according to the present invention allow the user to avoid manually opening the locking element. In other words, the user does not need to bend over to directly operate the unlocking member. The force required to place the locking element in the open position is reduced, and the bicycle is easier to fold.

[0026] Furthermore, since users do not need to touch the locking mechanism, there is no risk of getting their hands dirty or injuring themselves.

[0027] In the neutral position, the unlocking component does not drive the locking element to the open position, thus allowing the locking element to be placed in the closed position.

[0028] The actuation device can be cleverly positioned away from the unlocking component. In a non-limiting manner, the actuation device can be positioned at the height (level) of the handlebars or stem of a folding bicycle, allowing the user to easily reach and activate it, especially when the user is riding the bicycle.

[0029] Advantageously, the hinge includes a return device configured to move the unlocking member from the active position to the neutral position when the actuation device is not actuated. One advantage is that it makes it easier to place the unlocking member in the neutral position. Another advantage is that it eliminates the risk of forgetting to bring the unlocking member to the neutral position, thus preventing the unlocking member from holding the locking element in the open position under undesirable circumstances (e.g., when the bicycle is in use).

[0030] This reduces the risk of the bicycle being accidentally folded, thereby improving user safety.

[0031] Without limitation, the reset device may include a reset spring, such as a compression spring, that interacts with the unlocking member.

[0032] Preferably, the unlocking member is pivotally mounted relative to the second tube about a third pivot axis parallel to the second pivot axis of the locking element. In other words, the unlocking member pivots along the third pivot axis between a neutral position and an active position. When the unlocking member is driven to the active position by pivoting, it advantageously applies a thrust to the locking element, thereby pivoting the locking element from the closed position to the open position.

[0033] Without limitation, the rotation of the unlocking member along the first rotational direction drives the locking element to rotate along the second rotational direction. In a variation, the rotation of the unlocking member along the first rotational direction drives the locking element to rotate along the same first rotational direction.

[0034] The third pivot axis is preferably parallel to the first pivot axis and transverse to the second longitudinal direction of the second tube. When the second tube is unfolded, the third pivot axis advantageously extends between the first and second pivot axes, taking into account the projection in the plane passing through the first and second pivot axes.

[0035] Between the neutral position and the active position, the unlocking component preferably rotates, with a rotation angle between 60° and 180°, and more preferably between 90° and 180°, and even more preferably about 90°.

[0036] Advantageously, the second tube includes a mounting portion that defines a housing, on which the unlocking member is pivotally mounted and extends at least partially within the housing. One advantage of the mounting portion forming the housing is that it protects the unlocking member, particularly from rain, thus reducing the risk of damage.

[0037] Preferably, when the unlocking member is in the neutral position, the unlocking member extends substantially entirely within the housing of the mounting portion. More preferably, when the unlocking member is in the active position, the unlocking member extends partially outside the housing.

[0038] Furthermore, the mounting portion surrounds the unlocking component and forms a protective barrier to reduce the risk of injury to the user, especially the risk of being stuck by the unlocking component.

[0039] In the neutral position, the unlocking member preferably extends substantially entirely within the housing. In the active position, the unlocking member may partially protrude beyond the housing.

[0040] The mounting section preferably includes at least two sidewalls traversed by a third pivot axis.

[0041] Preferably, the mounting portion protrudes from the outer surface of the second tube. One advantage is that this makes the unlocking component easily accessible when maintenance is required.

[0042] It should be understood that the mounting portion protrudes radially from the outer surface of the second tube portion. Non-limitingly, the mounting portion may extend integrally outside the second tube portion.

[0043] Preferably, the mounting portion extends at least partially inside the second tube portion. One advantage is improved compactness of the hinge. Alternatively, but not limitingly, the mounting portion may extend integrally inside the second tube portion.

[0044] Advantageously, the unlocking member includes a pushing portion configured to push the locking element from its closed position to its open position when the unlocking member is moved from its neutral position to its active position. The force exerted on the locking element by the pushing portion of the unlocking member causes the locking member to pivot from its closed position to its open position. This force is greater than a restoring force, which may be exerted by a spring, tending to hold the locking element in the closed position.

[0045] When the unlocking component is in the neutral position, the pushing portion preferably extends substantially parallel to the locking element and the second tube.

[0046] Preferably, when the unlocking member is pivotally mounted relative to the second tube, the pushing part also pivots about a third pivot axis relative to the second tube. When the unlocking member is moved from the neutral position to the active position, the pushing part pivots along the third pivot axis and moves away from the second tube to actuate the locking element.

[0047] Preferably, but not limitingly, when the second tube is in the deployed position, the pressing portion preferably extends between the third pivot axis and the second tube. In a variation, when the second tube is in the deployed position, the third pivot axis may extend between the pressing portion and the second tube.

[0048] Advantageously, the unlocking member includes a pulling portion, and the actuating device is configured to pull the pulling portion of the unlocking member to move it to an active position. Non-limitingly, the traction force applied to the pulling portion by the actuating device can drive the unlocking member to move in a rotational or translational manner.

[0049] When the actuator is mounted on the handlebars, the traction force is preferably directed toward the actuator, and in particular toward the handlebars of the bicycle. The traction force is preferably oriented laterally to the third pivot axis.

[0050] The pulling part is used to significantly increase the force applied by the actuating device in a lever manner, thereby facilitating the active positioning of the unlocking component and thus helping to open the locking element.

[0051] Preferably, the pulling portion of the unlocking member extends radially from the third pivot axis, such that when the actuating device pulls the pulling portion, the unlocking member is driven to rotate about the third pivot axis.

[0052] Preferably, the unlocking component includes an elbow located between the pulling part and the pushing part, the elbow being penetrated by a third pivot axis.

[0053] Therefore, the pulling and pushing portions extend radially from the third pivot axis and are thus transverse to the third pivot axis.

[0054] The pulling and pushing parts preferably extend laterally relative to each other, so that the unlocking component is generally "L" shaped.

[0055] Preferably, the pulling part and the pushing part define an angle between 90° and 180°, more preferably between 110° and 140°, and even more preferably about 120°.

[0056] The length of the pulling part is preferably less than half the length of the pushing part.

[0057] The traction force applied to the pulling part along the pulling direction generally transverse to the third pivot axis can pivot the pulling part and the pushing part, thereby moving the unlocking member to the active position.

[0058] Advantageously, when the unlocking member is in the active position, the pulling and pushing portions of the unlocking member extend on either side of the mounting portion. One advantage is improved compactness of the hinge.

[0059] Without limitation, the pulling portion and the pushing portion may extend on both sides of a plane parallel to the second longitudinal direction of the second tube and passing through the third pivot axis.

[0060] Preferably, but not limitingly, the pulling part extends between the locking element and the third pivot axis, taking into account its projection in a plane transverse to the second longitudinal direction of the second tube and passing through the third pivot axis. The pulling part then extends inside the second tube.

[0061] In one variation, but not in a limiting sense, the third pivot axis extends between the pulling part and the locking element, in a projection in a plane that is transverse to the second longitudinal direction of the second tube and passes through the third pivot axis.

[0062] Preferably, the actuation device includes a control member and a cable portion, a first end of which is linked to the control member, and a second end of which is linked to the pull portion of the unlocking member.

[0063] The action of the control member drives the cable to move toward the control member, which has the effect of applying a traction force to the pulling part of the unlocking member. The pulling part is driven rotationally or translationally, and the unlocking member can be easily moved from the neutral position to the active position.

[0064] Without limitation, the cable portion may extend along the second tube portion or extend within the second tube portion.

[0065] Advantageously, but not limitingly, the control element takes the form of a lever or pivoting element, such as a handle.

[0066] The control components are preferably configured to be mounted close to the handlebars of a folding bicycle. This allows the cyclist to easily access the control components, facilitating the folding of the second tube and thus the folding of the bicycle itself.

[0067] The control components can also be mounted on the stem of a folding bicycle.

[0068] Preferably, the locking element includes a receiving portion, and the unlocking member further includes a locking portion configured to interact with the receiving portion when the unlocking member is in the neutral position to hold the locking element in the closed position. The locking portion performs a locking function and prevents accidental opening of the locking element, thereby preventing accidental folding of the second tube relative to the first tube. This reduces the risk of injury to the rider. Non-limitingly, opening of the locking element can only be achieved by activating the unlocking member, and therefore only by acting on the actuation device.

[0069] Preferably, the receiving portion protrudes from the inner surface of the locking element.

[0070] The locking part advantageously prevents the locking element from pivoting to its open position.

[0071] Preferably, the locking part and the receiving part are configured such that the interaction between the locking part and the receiving part is interrupted when the unlocking member is moved to the active position. Therefore, placing the unlocking member in the active position allows the locking element to be unlocked while the locking member is moved to its open position.

[0072] Advantageously, the receiving portion also includes a shoulder, and the locking portion is hook-shaped, including an engaging portion configured to interact with the shoulder when the unlocking member is in the neutral position. One advantage is that the locking element is locked in the closed position more effectively. When the unlocking member is in the neutral position, and a force is applied to the locking element to move it to the open position, the shoulder advantageously abuts against the engaging portion.

[0073] In a particularly advantageous aspect of the invention, when considered in a plane perpendicular to the second pivot axis, the shoulder and the engaging portion extend radially relative to a circle centered on the second pivot axis and passing through the locking portion. One advantage is improved interaction between the engaging portion and the shoulder, thereby more effectively preventing the locking element from opening when the unlocking member is in the neutral position.

[0074] Advantageously, the circle generally passes through the third pivot axis of the unlocking member relative to the second tube. One advantage is that it limits friction between the engagement portion and the shoulder during the transition from the active position to the neutral position (and vice versa) of the unlocking member.

[0075] The present invention also relates to a folding bicycle, which includes at least one hinge as described above.

[0076] Preferably, the folding bicycle further includes a second hinge as described above, and the means for actuating the unlocking member of the second hinge includes an actuation cable having a first end and a second end, the first end being attached to one of a first tube portion and a second tube portion of the first hinge, and the second end being connected to the unlocking member of the second hinge. The means for actuating the unlocking member of the second hinge is configured to drive the unlocking member of the second hinge to an active position when the second tube portion of the first hinge pivots relative to the first tube portion of the first hinge.

[0077] One advantage is that the unlocking mechanism of the second hinge can be easily activated by pivoting the second tube of the first hinge relative to the first tube. After the locking element of the first hinge is in the open position, the user folds the second tube of the first hinge, which causes the locking element of the second hinge to open. Therefore, the user does not need to operate a separate control to activate the unlocking mechanism of the second hinge. In other words, folding the first hinge allows the second hinge to be folded, thus enabling the bicycle to be gradually folded.

[0078] Another benefit is that it reduces the risk of the second hinge being folded inappropriately, because the unlocking component of the second hinge can only be moved to the active position after the first hinge has been folded.

[0079] The actuation cable advantageously extends within the sleeve. Non-limitingly, activation of the unlocking member of the second hinge can be accomplished by pulling the actuation cable or by pushing the sleeve (in which the actuation cable extends).

[0080] The first and second hinges can be two hinges of the bicycle frame, or hinges of the bicycle seatpost or stem. Attached Figure Description

[0081] The invention will be better understood by reading the following description of embodiments of the invention provided by way of non-limiting example and by referring to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0082] Figure 1 A portion of a bicycle frame according to the invention is shown, equipped with an articulation for a folding bicycle.

[0083] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 The hinge is in the neutral position;

[0084] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The side view of the hinge, with the unlocking component in the neutral position;

[0085] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 The receiving part and locking part of the hinge;

[0086] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 The hinge, with the unlocking component in the active position;

[0087] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The side view of the hinge, with the unlocking component in the active position;

[0088] Figure 7 It shows Figure 1 The hinged part is in the folded position;

[0089] Figure 8 It shows Figure 1 A variant of the first hinge of a bicycle; and

[0090] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The second hinge of the bicycle. Detailed Implementation

[0091] The present invention relates to a hinge for a folding bicycle, the hinge including an unlocking member that, when activated, can place a locking element in an open position.

[0092] Figure 1 A portion of the frame of a folding bicycle equipped with a hinge 10 according to the present invention is shown.

[0093] As can be seen, the hinge 10 includes a first tube 12, a second tube 14, a locking member 20, an unlocking member 30, and an actuating device 50.

[0094] In this non-limiting example, both the first tube 12 and the second tube 14 are part of the upper tube of a bicycle frame. Without departing from the scope of the invention, these first tubes 12 and second tubes 14 can be tubes of a bicycle seatpost, stem, or handlebars. Figure 2 As shown, the first tube 12 is cylindrical and extends along the first longitudinal direction Y1. The second tube 14 is also cylindrical and extends along the second longitudinal direction Y2.

[0095] For better visibility, Figures 1 to 7 The first tube section 12 and the second tube section 14 are both indicated by dashed lines and shown in a transparent manner.

[0096] like Figure 2As can be seen, the second tube 14 is mounted to pivot relative to the first tube 12 about a first pivot axis X1 between a folded position and an unfolded position. Figures 1 to 6 In the diagram, the second tube 14 is shown in the unfolded position, in which it extends within the extension of the first tube 12. In the folded position, as... Figure 7 As shown, the second tube 14 no longer extends into the extension of the first tube 12, but forms a certain angle with the latter.

[0097] The locking element 20 is generally rectangular in shape. It forms a lever.

[0098] Reference Figure 2 As can be seen, the locking element 20 is pivotally mounted relative to the first tube 12 along the second pivot axis X2. The first pivot axis X1 and the second pivot axis X2 are radially opposed and extend on each side of the first tube 12. Furthermore, they are parallel to each other. The housing 22 is formed in the locking element 20.

[0099] The unlocking member 30 is pivotally mounted relative to the second tube portion 14 along a third pivot axis X3. The third pivot axis X3 is parallel to the first pivot axis X1 and the second pivot axis X2. More precisely, in this non-limiting example, the unlocking member 30 is pivotally mounted relative to the mounting portion 16 of the second tube portion along the third pivot axis.

[0100] The mounting portion 16 defines a housing 18, in which the unlocking member 30 extends partially. The mounting portion 16 includes two sidewalls through which a third pivot axis X3 passes. In this non-limiting example, the mounting portion 16 protrudes from the outer surface 14a of the second tube portion 14.

[0101] The unlocking member 30 includes a pressing portion 32 configured to press against the locking element 20. The unlocking member also includes a pulling portion 34 and an elbow 36 extending between the pressing portion 32 and the pulling portion 34. The elbow is penetrated by a third pivot axis X3. The pressing portion 32 and the pulling portion 34 project radially from and transversely to the third pivot axis X3.

[0102] The pulling part 34 and the pushing part 32 extend laterally relative to each other. They define an angle between 110° and 140°, preferably approximately 120°. In addition, the unlocking member is generally L-shaped.

[0103] In this non-limiting example, in the cavity formed within the second tube, the pulling portion 34 extends partially within the second tube 14.

[0104] When the second tube 14 is in the unfolded position, such as Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the unlocking member 30 extends between the second tube 14 and the locking element 20. Furthermore, in this position, and considering its projection in the plane passing through the first pivot axis X1 and the second pivot axis X2, the third pivot axis X3 extends between the first and second pivot axes. Moreover, non-limitingly, when the second tube is unfolded, and considering the plane passing through the first pivot axis X1 and the second pivot axis X2, the pulling portion extends between the third pivot axis X3 and the first pivot axis X1.

[0105] like Figure 1 As shown, the actuation device 50 includes a control member 54 and a cable portion 52, which has a first end 52a connected to the control member and a second end 52b connected to the pull portion 34 of the unlocking member 20.

[0106] In this non-limiting example, the hinge 10 also includes a rod-shaped connecting member 40, particularly... Figure 5 As shown in the figure. The connecting member 40 has a first end 40a and a second end 40b, the first end being pivotally mounted relative to the end of the locking element 30 along a fourth pivot axis X4, and the second end being pivotally mounted relative to the second tube portion 14 along a fifth pivot axis X5.

[0107] The hinge 10 also includes a spring 60, such as Figure 1 It can be seen that the spring is configured to drive the locking element toward the second tube 14.

[0108] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the middle, the second tube 14 is in the extended position, while the unlocking member 30 is in the neutral position. Moreover, the locking element 20 is in the closed position, which keeps the second tube 14 in the extended position.

[0109] More precisely, in the folded position, the locking element 20 is pressed against the mounting portion 16 of the second tube portion 14 and extends generally parallel to the second longitudinal direction Y2 of the second tube portion 14.

[0110] exist Figure 3 As can be seen, when the locking element 20 is in the closed position, the first pivot axis X1, the third pivot axis X3, and the fourth pivot axis X4 extend on the same side of the plane passing through the second pivot axis X2 and the fifth pivot axis X5.

[0111] Reference Figure 2As can be seen in this closed position, the connecting member 40 extends within the housing 22 formed in the locking element 20. The locking element 20 applies a force to the first end 40a of the connecting member 40, which transmits this force to the second tube 14. This force is substantially direct toward the first tube 12, causing it to hold both the first and second tubes in the extended position. If a force is applied to the second tube 14, tending to move it into a folded position, this force is transmitted to the locking element 20 via the connecting member 40. This force tends to bring the locking element closer to the second tube, thus holding the locking member in the closed position and holding both the first and second tubes in the extended position.

[0112] Therefore, even if there is a force that tends to pivot the second tube 14 relative to the first tube 12, the locking element 20 can effectively hold the first tube 12 and the second tube 14 in the unfolded position.

[0113] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the neutral position, the locking element 30 is in the neutral position. Its pushing portion 32 extends substantially parallel to the second longitudinal direction Y2 of the second tube portion 14. In this neutral position, the pushing portion 32 also extends substantially parallel to the locking element 20 inside the mounting portion 16, so that it does not exert any pushing force on the latter.

[0114] As in Figure 4 As can be seen, the unlocking member 30 also includes a locking portion 35, which extends radially from the third pivot axis X3. The locking portion 35 forms an angle with the pushing portion 32 and the pulling portion 34, the angle being between 100° and 140°, preferably approximately 120°. The locking portion 35 is hook-shaped, including an engaging portion 37. The engaging portion 37 extends tangentially to a circle passing through the locking portion 35 and centered on the axis X3. The inner surface of the locking element 20 is also provided with a receiving portion 39 including a shoulder 41.

[0115] In the unsecured position of component 30, such as Figure 4 As shown, the engaging portion 37 of the locking part 35 interacts with the shoulder 41 to keep the locking element in the closed position.

[0116] Considering a plane transverse to the second pivot axis X2, the shoulder 41 and the engagement portion extend radially relative to a circle C centered on the second pivot axis and passing through the locking portion 35. One advantage is that when the unlocking member 30 is in the neutral position and force is applied to the locking element 20, tending to pivot the locking element to its open position, the shoulder abuts against the engagement portion, effectively preventing the locking member from opening.

[0117] It can also be seen that the circle C generally passes through the third pivot axis X3 of the unlocking member 20 relative to the second tube 14, which helps to initiate the interaction between the engagement portion 37 and the shoulder 41 and to interrupt the interaction between the two when the unlocking member pivots.

[0118] To fold the second tube section 14, the user must first place the locking element 20 in the open position. To do this, the user actuates the actuation device 50 by operating the control member 54. This results in pulling the cable section 52 in the direction of the control member. The cable section 52 applies a pulling force to the pulling part 34 of the unlocking member 30. The unlocking member 30 is then driven to rotate about the third pivot axis X3 in the first rotational direction until it reaches the active position, such as from... Figure 2 and Figures 3 to 5 and Figure 6 The transition is shown.

[0119] When the unlocking member 30 is in the active position, its locking portion 35 pivots about the third pivot axis X3, so that the engaging portion 37 no longer interacts with the shoulder 41 of the receiving portion 39. The locking portion 35 no longer prevents the locking element 20 from being placed in the open position.

[0120] Furthermore, when the unlocking member 30 is placed in the active position, its pushing part 32 also pivots about the third pivot axis X3 and is supported on the inner surface of the locking element 20, more specifically on the support part 24 of the locking element 20, such as... Figure 5 As can be seen, the support portion 24 and the receiving portion 39 form separate components. The pushing portion 32 (particularly its distal end) pushes the locking element 20 in the opposite direction to the second tube portion 14. This thrust drives the locking element 20 to rotate until it reaches the open position, as shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown.

[0121] With the present invention, the user can move the locking element 30 to the open position by operating the actuation device 50 without having to touch the locking member.

[0122] like Figure 6 As shown, in the active position of the unlocking member 30, the pulling part 34 and the pushing part 32 extend on both sides of the mounting part 16 of the second tube 14. Furthermore, the pulling part 34 and the pushing part 32 extend on both sides of a plane parallel to the second longitudinal direction Y2 of the second tube and passing through the third pivot axis X3.

[0123] In the open position, the locking element 20 is separated from and removed from the second tube 14. The first pivot axis X1 and the fourth pivot axis X4 extend on both sides of the plane passing through the second pivot axis X2 and the fifth pivot axis X5, respectively.

[0124] like Figure 7 As shown, the locking element 20 is in the open position, allowing the second tube 14 to pivot about the first pivot axis X1 relative to the first tube 12, and thus allowing the second tube to be placed in the folded position.

[0125] The hinge also includes a reset device 56 configured to move the unlocking member 30 from the active position to the neutral position when the actuation device is not actuated. In this non-limiting example, the reset device includes a spring 56, which is a compression spring type, disposed around and extending along the cable portion 52. The spring has a first end fixed relative to the cable portion 52 and supported on a sleeve 58 (within which the cable portion 52 extends). The spring also includes a second end supported on the pull portion 34 of the unlocking member.

[0126] When the unlocking component is in the neutral position, such as Figure 3 As shown, the spring is not compressed. When the unlocking member is in the active position, the cable is pulled within the sleeve, causing the spring 56 to be compressed. The spring then applies a thrust to the pulling part 34, tending to move the unlocking member 30 to the neutral position, as shown. Figure 6 As shown.

[0127] Thus, when the cable section 52 is no longer pulled, the spring 56 causes the pulling section to pivot, causing the unlocking member to return to the neutral position.

[0128] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A variation of the bicycle according to the invention is shown, the bicycle comprising two articulated joints, namely, Figure 8 The first hinge 100 shown and Figure 9 The second hinge 200 is shown. Without departing from the scope of the invention, and without limitation, these hinges 100, 200 may be mounted on the frame, stem, or seatpost of a bicycle.

[0129] like Figure 8 As shown, the first hinge 100 and Figures 1 to 7 The hinge 10 is similar. It includes a first tube 112 and a second tube 114 that can be pivotally mounted relative to the first tube.

[0130] like Figure 9 As shown, the second hinge 200 includes a first tube portion 212, which is fixed relative to the second tube portion 114 of the first hinge 100. The second hinge 200 also includes a second tube portion 214, which is pivotally mounted relative to the first tube portion 212 about a first pivot axis X1.

[0131] The second hinge 200 differs from the first hinge in that the unlocking member 230 includes a locking portion 235, which also forms a pulling portion. Furthermore, the actuation device 250 of the second hinge 200 includes an actuation cable 252 having a first end 252a and a second end 252b.

[0132] In this non-restrictive example, and may be Figure 8 As seen in the image, the first end 252a of the actuation cable 252 is attached to the first tube portion 112 of the first hinge 100. For this purpose, the actuation cable 252 includes a cable head housed within a housing formed in the first tube portion 112. The second end 252b of the actuation cable 252 is connected to the locking portion 235 of the unlocking member 230 of the second hinge 200. The actuation cable 252 extends within a sleeve 254. This sleeve 254 has a first end 254a that rests on the surface of the second tube portion 114 of the first hinge 100, forming a sleeve stop. The sleeve 254 also has a second end 254b opposite to the first end, which rests on the surface of the first tube portion 212 of the second hinge, forming a sleeve stop.

[0133] Without limitation, the actuation cable 252 and the sleeve 254 extend within the second tube portion 114 of the first hinge 100 and within the first tube portion 212 of the second hinge 200.

[0134] When the second tube portion 114 of the first hinge 100 pivots relative to the first tube portion 112 of the first hinge, the second tube portion 114 pushes the sleeve 254, while the cable head of the actuation cable 252 remains substantially immobile. Thus, a traction force is applied to the locking portion 235 of the unlocking member 230 of the second hinge 200 via the actuation cable 252.

[0135] The unlocking member 230 is rotatably driven relative to the second tube 214 about the third pivot axis X3 and is moved to the active position. The unlocking member 230 then moves the locking element 20 of the second hinge 200 from its closed position to its open position, thereby allowing the second hinge to fold.

[0136] In this non-limiting example, activation of the unlocking member 230 is accomplished by pushing the sleeve 254. Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, such activation can be performed by pulling the actuation cable 252.

Claims

1. A hinge (10) for a folding bicycle, said hinge comprising: -First pipe section (12); - A second tube (14) is pivotally mounted relative to the first tube about a first pivot axis (X1) between an unfolded position and a folded position; - A locking element (20) pivotally mounted to the first tube about a second pivot axis (X2), the locking element having: at least one closed position in which the locking element holds the second tube in the unfolded position; and an open position in which the locking element allows the second tube to be displaced in the folded position by pivoting the second tube relative to the first tube about the first pivot axis; - Unlocking member (30) having a neutral position and an active position, the unlocking member being configured such that when it is placed in the active position, it moves the locking element from its closed position to its open position; as well as - An actuation device (50) for actuating the unlocking member, which is configured to move the unlocking member to the active position.

2. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, comprising a reset device (60) configured to move the unlocking member (30) from the active position to the neutral position when the actuation device (50) is not actuated.

3. The hinge of claim 1, wherein The unlocking member (30) is pivotally mounted relative to the second tube (14) about a third pivot axis (X3), which is parallel to the second pivot axis (X2) of the locking element.

4. The hinge as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The second tube (14) includes a mounting portion (16) that defines a housing (18), the unlocking member (30) being pivotally mounted on the mounting portion and extending at least partially within the housing.

5. The hinge as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The mounting portion (16) protrudes from the outer surface (14a) of the second tube portion (14).

6. The hinge as described in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The mounting portion (16) extends at least partially inside the second tube portion (14).

7. The hinge as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The unlocking member (30) includes a pushing part (32) configured to push the locking element when the unlocking member is moved from its neutral position to its active position, so as to move the locking element from its closed position to its open position.

8. The hinge as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The unlocking member (30) includes a pulling part (34), and the actuating device (50) is configured to pull on the pulling part of the unlocking member in order to move the unlocking member to the active position.

9. The hinge as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The unlocking member (30) is pivotally mounted relative to the second tube (14) about a third pivot axis (X3), which is parallel to the second pivot axis (X2) of the locking element, and the pulling part (34) of the unlocking member (30) extends radially from the third pivot axis (X3) such that when the actuating device (50) pulls on the pulling part, the unlocking member is driven to rotate about the third pivot axis.

10. The hinge as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The unlocking member (30) includes a pushing part (32) configured to push the locking element from its closed position to its open position when the unlocking member is moved from its neutral position to its active position, and the unlocking member (30) includes an elbow (36) located between the pulling part (34) and the pushing part (32), the third pivot axis (X3) passing through the elbow.

11. The hinge as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The actuation device (50) includes a control member (54) and a cable portion (52), wherein a first end (52a) of the cable portion is connected to the control member, and a second end (52b) of the cable portion is connected to the pulling portion of the unlocking member.

12. The hinge as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The control member (54) has a shape configured to be close to the handlebar mount of a folding bicycle.

13. The hinge as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking element (20) includes a receiving portion (39), and the unlocking member (30) further includes a locking portion (35), the locking portion being configured to interact with the receiving portion when the unlocking member is in the neutral position, so as to hold the locking element (20) in the closed position.

14. The hinge as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The locking part (35) and the receiving part (39) are configured such that when the unlocking member (30) is moved to the active position, the interaction between the locking part and the receiving part is interrupted.

15. The hinge as described in claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The receiving portion (39) includes a shoulder (41), and the locking portion (35) is hook-shaped, including an engaging portion (37) configured to interact with the shoulder when the unlocking member is in the neutral position.

16. The hinge as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, Considering a plane perpendicular to the second pivot axis (X2), the shoulder (41) and the engagement portion (37) extend radially relative to a circle centered on the second pivot axis (X2) and passing through the locking portion (35).

17. A folding bicycle, comprising at least one first hinge, the first hinge being the hinge as claimed in claim 1.

18. The folding bicycle of claim 17, further comprising a second hinge (200), the second hinge being the hinge of claim 1, and a means (250) for actuating an unlocking member of the second hinge comprising an actuation cable (252), a first end (252a) of the actuation cable being attached to one of a first tube and a second tube of the first hinge, and a second end (252b) of the actuation cable being connected to an unlocking member (230) of the second hinge, the means for actuating an unlocking member of the second hinge being configured to drive the unlocking member of the second hinge to the active position when the second tube of the first hinge pivots relative to the first tube of the first hinge.

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