Chain guide attachment element and front derailleur

Abstract

A chain guide attachment element (20) for attachment to a chain guide (14) of a front derailleur (10) and a front derailleur (10) are provided. The chain guide attachment element (20) essentially comprises a first part (60) and a fixing part (66). The first part (60) is configured to prevent a chain (CN) from falling off a sprocket of a front sprocket assembly (FS) during an inward shifting operation in a state where the chain guide attachment element (20) is attached to an inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14) and the front derailleur (10) is mounted to a bicycle frame (F). The fixing part (66) is configured to be fixed to the chain guide (14). The fixing part (66) is free of metallic material.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Many bicycles are equipped with a chain drivetrain, which allows the rider to change the gear ratio used to transmit power from the pedals to the rear wheel. Typically, the drivetrain 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 shift positions. The chain guide contacts the chain to move the chain laterally between the front sprockets. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In general, this disclosure relates to various features of a chain guide attachment element for a chain guide of a front derailleur. One object of the invention is to provide a chain guide attachment element for a chain guide of a front derailleur that more reliably prevents the chain from falling 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 essentially comprises a first component and a fixing component. The first component is configured to prevent the chain from falling off the sprocket of the front sprocket assembly during inward shifting operations, provided the chain guide attachment element is attached to the inner plate of the chain guide and the front derailleur is mounted to the bicycle frame. The fixing component is configured to be secured to the chain guide. The fixing component is free of metal.

[0005] Using the chain guide attachment element according to the first aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be manufactured inexpensively and securely attached to the chain guide. Furthermore, the chain guide attachment element can be lightweight because the fixing parts do not contain metal materials.

[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 frictional noise generated by 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 according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the fixing member is positioned adjacent to the connecting member. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the fourth aspect, the first member and the second member can be securely attached to the chain guide via 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 a separation region. The first and second components can be suitably positioned using the chain guide attachment element according to the fifth aspect.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the fifth aspect is configured such that it defines a receiving space at a position spaced apart from the first and second components. The receiving space is configured to at least partially receive a protruding portion of the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the sixth aspect, the protruding portion of the inner plate can be suitably positioned between the first and second components for contacting the chain during an outward shifting operation from one sprocket to another.

[0011] According to a seventh 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 substantially includes 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 spaced apart from the first component and the second component. The receiving space is configured to at least partially receive a protrusion of an inner plate of the chain guide.

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

[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 to be attached 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 inexpensively and securely attached to the chain guide.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to 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 a tenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to the eighth or ninth aspect is configured such that the fixing member is positioned adjacent to the connecting member. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the tenth aspect, the first member and the second member can be securely attached to the chain guide via 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 an engagement 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 an engaging portion. 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 part includes an engaging portion. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the thirteenth aspect, the second part 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 the eleventh to thirteenth aspects is configured such that the engaging 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 the first hook hooked onto the inner plate.

[0020] According to the fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of the eleventh to fourteenth aspects is configured such that the engaging portion includes a second hook provided to the second component. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the fifteenth aspect, the second component can engage with the inner plate via the second hook hooked onto 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, with the chain guide attachment element attached to the inner plate of the chain guide, at least a portion of the second component protrudes further into the chain guide groove of the chain guide than the protruding portion of the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the sixteenth aspect, the second component contacts the chain before the chain contacts the protruding portion 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 shifting operation. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the seventeenth aspect, the first component can reliably perform the outward 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: a first component is configured to partially cover the inner surface of the inner plate, the inner surface facing the chain guide groove where the chain guide attachment 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 configured such that the first component, the second component, and the connecting component are integral single-piece components. Using the chain guide attachment element according to the nineteenth aspect, the chain guide attachment element can be provided inexpensively and can be 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 configured 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 friction noise generated by friction between the chain and the chain guide attachment element.

[0026] According to aspect twenty-one of this disclosure, the chain guide attachment element according to any one of aspects six through ten and sixteen is configured such that, with the chain guide attachment element attached to the inner plate of the chain guide, at least a portion of the first component protrudes further into the chain guide groove of the chain guide than the protruding portion of the inner plate. Using the chain guide attachment element according to aspect twenty-one, the first component contacts the chain before the chain contacts the protruding portion of the inner plate.

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

[0028] The front derailleur can be equipped 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, together with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the chain guide attachment element and the disclosed front derailleur. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Because the invention will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and with reference to the following detailed description, a more complete understanding of the invention and its many accompanying advantages will be readily obtained, wherein:

[0031] Figure 1 This 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 includes a front derailleur and a chain guide. The front derailleur has a base member mounted on the bicycle frame, and the chain guide is provided with a chain guide attachment element.

[0032] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The outside perspective view of the front derailleur shown.

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The outside view of the front derailleur shown.

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

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

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

[0037] Figure 7 yes Figures 1 to 6 The diagram shows a bottom view of the front derailleur, with the chain guide in a retracted position relative to the base member.

[0038] Figure 8 yes Figures 1 to 7 The outer perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment element of the front derailleur shown.

[0039] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded outer perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown.

[0040] Figure 10 It is along Figure 3 Observation of the cross-section line 10-10 Figure 8 and Figure 9 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the chain guide and its attachment elements.

[0041] Figure 11 It is along Figure 6 Observed from section line 11-11 Figures 8 to 10 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the chain guide and its attachment elements.

[0042] Figure 12 yes Figures 8 to 11 The inner perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment element shown.

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

[0044] Figure 14 yes Figures 8 to 13 Enlarged rear view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown.

[0045] Figure 15 This 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 yes Figure 15 The outer perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment element of the front derailleur shown.

[0047] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 An exploded outer perspective view of the chain guide and chain guide attachment elements shown.

[0048] Figure 18 yes Figures 15 to 17 The chain guide and chain guide attachment shown are related to Figure 11A cross-sectional view similar to the cross section.

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

[0050] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. Based on this disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles that the following description of the embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0051] First refer to Figure 1 The diagram shows a portion of a bicycle frame F 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 rotate about a central axis of rotation A via a pair of crank arms CA1 and CA2. The first sprocket S1 is the larger front sprocket relative to the second sprocket S2, and the second sprocket is the smaller front sprocket adjacent to the first sprocket S1. Although the front sprocket assembly FS is shown as having only two front sprockets, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the front sprocket assembly FS may include more than two front sprockets if desired and / or desired.

[0052] Basically, the front derailleur 10 is configured to laterally move 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 on the bicycle frame F. The chain guide 14 is configured to be movable relative to the base member 12. The linkage assembly 16 operatively engages the chain guide 14 with the base member 12. Specifically, the chain guide 14 is configured to be movably engaged with the base member 12 between a retracted position and an extended position to move the bicycle chain CN. The retracted position is... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The middle part is represented by a solid line, while the protruding position is in Figure 5 and Figure 6 The dashed line indicates this. In the extended position, the chain guide 14 is 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 can 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, operation of the shifter pulls or releases the inner cable 18b within the housing 18a to operate the front derailleur 10. The housing 18a can be formed as a single, continuous tubular member, one end of which contacts a portion of the shifter and the other end of which contacts the front derailleur 10, as shown. Alternatively, the housing 18a can 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 slipping off during downshifting operation as the chain CN moves from the larger sprocket to the adjacent smaller sprocket. Therefore, in Figure 1 In the example shown, the chain guide attachment element 20 is configured to prevent the chain CN from falling off during downshifting operation when the chain CN moves from the first sprocket S1 to the second sprocket S2.

[0055] In the first embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, 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 also be mounted on the bicycle frame F instead of the seatpost. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the tube clamp 22 includes a first clamping member 22A and a second clamping member 22B. Both the first clamping member 22A and the second clamping member 22B are rigid elements 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 second clamping member 22B is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 via 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, from this disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles that, as needed and / or desired, the front derailleur 10 can be attached to a brazed mount provided to the seatpost, or attached to the suspension tube via a bottom bracket of the bicycle frame F.

[0056] Specifically, the front derailleur 10 also includes a first linkage member 30 and a second linkage member 32, which connect the base member 12 and the chain guide 14 together for lateral movement relative to the bicycle frame F. In other words, the first linkage member 30 and the second linkage member 32 define a linkage assembly for movably supporting the chain guide 14 relative to the base member 12 between an extended position and a retracted position. Both the first linkage member 30 and the second linkage member 32 are rigid elements made of suitable materials, such as metal or fiber-reinforced plastic. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the first linkage member 30 is an outer linkage member, while the second linkage member 32 is an inner linkage member.

[0057] The second linkage component 32 has a cable attachment bolt 34, which is screwed into a threaded hole in the second linkage component 32 to securely attach the inner wire 18b to the second linkage component 32.

[0058] Here, as Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the front derailleur 10 also includes a biasing member 36 operably disposed between the chain guide 14 and the second linkage member 32 to bias the chain guide 14 toward a retracted position. Alternatively, if desired and / or expected, the biasing member 36 may be arranged to bias the chain guide 14 toward an extended position. In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 4 As shown, 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 linkage member 32 to the base member 12. The biasing member 36 has a first end that engages with the chain guide 14 and a second end that engages with the second linkage member 32.

[0059] The base member 12 is a rigid element made of a suitable material, such as metal or plastic. The base member 12 also has a cable receiving portion 40 for receiving the operating cable 18. Figure 5 As shown, the cable receiving portion 40 has a stepped hole 42, such that a housing 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 receive the housing 18a adjacent to the housing abutment surface. The second small-diameter hole section 48 is sized to receive the inner wire 18b passing through it.

[0060] The chain guide 14 will now be discussed in more detail. For example... Figures 8 to 14As shown, 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 protrusion 50b projecting from the inner surface 50a into the chain guide groove 54. The protrusion 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 end of the inner plate 50 and the upstream end of the outer plate 52. The downstream connecting member 58 connects the downstream end of the inner plate 50 and the downstream end of the outer plate 52. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the chain drive direction CD of the bicycle chain CN relative to the chain guide groove 54 during the application of a forward pedaling action 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 for receiving the bicycle chain CN.

[0062] More specifically, by pulling the inner wire 18b of the operating cable 18 in response to the actuation of the shifter, 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 moves 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, by pulling the inner wire 18b of the operating cable 18 in response to the actuation of the shifter, 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 either the first sprocket S1 or the second sprocket S2 in response to the actuation of the shifter.

[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 where the chain guide attachment element 20 is attached to the inner plate 50. Here, the first component 60 is also at least cantilevered relative to the inner plate 50.

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

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

[0066] The support 60a is located at the farthest forward part of the chain guide attachment element 20. Compared to any other part of the chain guide attachment element 20, the support 60a extends furthest into the chain guide groove 54. When performing 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 too far in the inward direction towards the bicycle frame F, the chain CN comes into contact with the support 60a to prevent the chain CN from disengaging from the interior of the second sprocket S2.

[0067] Furthermore, the first component 60 is configured to contact the chain CN during an outward shift operation. Specifically, the first component 60 includes a chain contact surface 60b that contacts the chain CN during the outward shift operation. Preferably, the chain contact surface 60b of the first component 60 is located downward from the bottom periphery 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, during an outward shift operation, the chain guide attachment element 20 can deform relative to the chain guide 14 in response to contact with the chain CN.

[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 a separation region R. Preferably, as in the first embodiment, the first component 60, the second component 62, and the connecting component 64 are integral single-piece 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 rigid synthetic resin (e.g., polyacetal, etc.) that has elasticity and resilience to return to its original state after the first component 60 deflects relative to the second component 62 during an outward 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] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The chain guide attachment element 20 also includes a retaining member 66. In a first embodiment, the retaining member 66 is positioned 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 a 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, such as Figure 12 As shown, at least one of the first component 60 and the second component 62 includes an engagement portion configured to engage with the inner panel 50. Here, the first component 60 includes an engagement portion 70. Furthermore, here, the second component 62 includes an engagement portion 72. In a first embodiment, the engagement 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 engagement 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] refer to Figure 9The chain guide attachment element 20 also includes a receiving space 74, which is defined at a position spaced apart from the first component 60 and the second component 62. More specifically, the receiving space 74 is configured to at least partially receive a protrusion 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 protrusion 50b is at least partially located in the receiving space 74. The protrusion 50b of the inner plate 50 protrudes from the inner plate 50 toward 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 positioned adjacent to the protrusion 50b of the inner plate 50. The protrusion 50b of the inner plate 50 at least partially defines a separation region R between the first component 60 and the second component 62. Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, 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 portion 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 portion 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 portion 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 portion 50b of the inner plate 50. Therefore, contact between the chain CN and the protruding portion 50b of the inner plate 50 is generally prevented. However, during an outward shift, the first component 60 can be deflected inward toward the bicycle frame F relative to the second component 62, causing the chain CN to contact the protruding portion 50b of the inner plate 50.

[0073] Now refer to Figures 15 to 18 The diagram illustrates a front derailleur 110 according to a second embodiment. Given the similarity between the first and second embodiments, components in the second embodiment that are identical to those in the first embodiment have the same reference numerals. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity, descriptions of components 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 it is provided with 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 linkage assembly 16, and a chain guide attachment element 120.

[0075] In a 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 identical to 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 protrusion 150b, wherein the width of the protrusion 150b is wider than the width of the protrusion 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 functions in the same manner as the chain guide 14.

[0076] In the second embodiment, the chain guide attachment element 120 essentially 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] Now for reference Figure 19 The diagram illustrates a front derailleur 210 according to a third embodiment. Here, the front derailleur 210 is an electric front derailleur, not a cable-operated derailleur. Given the similarities between the first and third embodiments, the description of the third embodiment will focus on its main differences.

[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 on a bicycle frame. The chain guide 214 is configured to be movable relative to the base member 212. Specifically, the linkage assembly 216 operatively engages the chain guide 214 with 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 motor 217A, operatively connected to the linkage assembly 216 for moving the chain guide 214 between the retracted and extended positions.

[0079] Chain guide 214 includes an inner plate 250 and an outer plate 252. The inner plate 250 and the 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 protrusion 250b projecting from the inner surface 250a into the chain guide groove 254. The inner plate 250 is the same as the inner plate 50 discussed above, and the outer plate 252 is the same as the outer plate 52 discussed above. Therefore, chain guide 214 has essentially the same configuration as chain guide 14 discussed above.

[0080] Chain guide 214 includes chain guide attachment element 220. Chain guide attachment element 220 is the same as chain guide attachment element 20 in the first embodiment. Chain guide attachment element 220 also includes a retaining member 266 configured to attach to chain guide 14. Retaining member 266 is non-metallic and is the same as retaining member 66 discussed above.

[0081] In understanding the scope of this invention, as used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives are intended as open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integrals, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integrals, 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," when used in the singular, can have a dual meaning of a single part or multiple parts.

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

[0083] As used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired choices. For example, as used in this disclosure, "at least one" means "only one single choice" or "two of two choices" if the number of choices is two. As another example, as used in this disclosure, "at least one" means "only one single choice" or "any combination of two or more choices" if the number of choices is three or more. Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "one or two".

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

[0085] As used herein, the term "attached" or "attached" includes a configuration in which one element is directly fixed to another element by fixing it directly to the other element; a configuration in which one element is indirectly fixed to another element by fixing it to an intermediate element (which in turn is fixed to the other element); and a configuration in which one element is integral with another element (i.e., one element is substantially part of the other element). This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "joint," "connect," "link," "install," "adhere," "fix," and their derivatives. Finally, as used herein, degree terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "probably" refer to the amount of deviation of the modified term such that the final result is not significantly altered.

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

[0087] Figure Labels

[0088] 10 Front Derailleur

[0089] 12 Base components

[0090] 14 Chain Guide

[0091] 16 Linkage Components

[0092] 18. Operating cables

[0093] 18a casing

[0094] 18b Inside Line

[0095] 20 Chain guide attachments

[0096] 22 pipe clamps

[0097] 22A First clamping component

[0098] 22B Second clamping component

[0099] 22C Pivot Pin

[0100] 24 Fasteners

[0101] 30 First linkage component

[0102] 32 Second linkage component

[0103] 34 Cable attachment bolts

[0104] 36 Offset components

[0105] 38 Pivot pins

[0106] 40 Cable receiving section

[0107] 42 stepped holes

[0108] 44. Adjacent surfaces of the outer casing

[0109] 46 First Largest Diameter Hole Section

[0110] 48 Second Small Diameter Hole Section

[0111] 50 Inner Panel

[0112] 50a inner surface

[0113] 50b Protruding part

[0114] 52 outer panel

[0115] 54 Chain guide groove

[0116] 56. Upstream connecting components

[0117] 58 Downstream connection components

[0118] 58a lamina portion

[0119] 58b Opening

[0120] 60 First Component

[0121] 60a support

[0122] 60b Chain contact surface

[0123] 62 Second Component

[0124] 62a First end

[0125] 62b Second End

[0126] 64 Connecting components

[0127] 66 Fixed components

[0128] 66a Fastener Opening

[0129] 68 Fasteners

[0130] 70 (the joint portion of the first component 60)

[0131] 70a First Hook

[0132] 72 (the joint portion of the second component 62)

[0133] 72a Second Hook

[0134] 74 Receiving Space

[0135] 110 front derailleur

[0136] 114 Chain Guide

[0137] 120 Chain Guide Attachment

[0138] 150 Inner Panel

[0139] 150a inner surface

[0140] 150b Protruding part

[0141] 152 outer panel

[0142] 154 Chain Guide Groove

[0143] 156 Upstream connecting components

[0144] 158 Downstream connection components

[0145] 160 First Component

[0146] 162 Second Component

[0147] 164 Connecting components

[0148] 166 Fixed components

[0149] 210 Front Derailleur

[0150] 212 Base components

[0151] 214 Chain Guide

[0152] 216 Linkage Components

[0153] 217 Actuator

[0154] 217A Reversible Motor

[0155] 220 Chain Guide Attachment

[0156] 250 Inner Panel

[0157] 250a inner surface

[0158] 252 outer panel

[0159] 254 Chain Guide Groove

[0160] 266 Fixed components

[0161] A central axis

[0162] CA1 crank arm

[0163] CA2 crank arm

[0164] CD chain drive direction

[0165] CN bicycle chain

[0166] F bicycle frame

[0167] FS front sprocket assembly

[0168] R Separation region

[0169] S1 First Sprocket

[0170] 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 falling off 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). Second component (62) Connecting component (64), which connects the first component (60) and the second component (62); and Fixing component (66), the fixing component being configured to be attached to the chain guide (14), wherein, The fixing component (66) does not contain metal materials. The first component (60) is at least partially separated from the second component (62) at the separation region (R). A receiving space (74) is defined at a position where the first component (60) and the second component (62) are spaced apart from each other. The receiving space (74) is configured to at least partially receive the protrusion (50b) of the inner plate (50).

2. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 1, wherein, The fixing component (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 component (66) is positioned adjacent to the connecting component (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); The second component (62) is at least partially separated from the first component (60); as well as A connecting component (64) connects the first component (60) and the second component (62); A receiving space (74) is defined at a position where the first component (60) and the second component (62) are spaced apart from each other; and The receiving space (74) is configured to at least partially receive the protrusion (50b) of the inner plate (50) of the chain guide (14).

5. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to claim 4, further comprising: Fixing component (66), the fixing component being configured to be attached to the chain guide (14), wherein, The fixing component (66) does not contain metal materials.

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

8. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, At least one of the first component (60) and the second component (62) includes a joining portion (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 portion (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 portion (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 to 6, 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 component (62) protrudes further into the chain guide groove (54) of the chain guide (14) than the protruding portion (50b) of the inner plate (50).

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

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

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

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

18. The chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, 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 first component (60) protrudes further into the chain guide groove (54) of the chain guide (14) than the protruding portion (50b) of the inner plate (50).

19. A front derailleur (10), comprising: Chain guide attachment element (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 18; A base component (12) configured to be mounted on a bicycle frame (F); Chain guide (14), the chain guide being movable relative to the base member (12); as well as Linkage assembly (16) operatively connects the chain guide (14) to the base member (12).

Images