Non-metallic brackets for bicycle hydraulic components

Abstract

The present invention discloses a non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic element, the non-metallic bracket basically comprising a non-metallic body and a rupture member. The non-metallic body has a hydraulic hose attachment port and an internal fluid passage. The hydraulic hose attachment port has an insertion opening and an internal attachment hole, the insertion opening being arranged at an outer surface of the non-metallic body, and the internal attachment hole extending from the insertion opening toward the internal fluid passage. The rupture member is arranged in the non-metallic body at a location spaced apart from the insertion opening of the hydraulic hose attachment port.

Description

[0001] This divisional application is a divisional application based on the Chinese invention patent application No. 201710008652.3, invention name “Non-metallic bracket for bicycle hydraulic components”, and application date January 6, 2017. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic component. More specifically, the present invention relates to a non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic component, the non-metallic bracket including a rupture member disposed in a non-metallic body. Background Art

[0003] Hydraulic bicycle systems are well known to use hydraulic components connected to hydraulic hoses. A first hydraulic component (such as a brake lever) is fluidly connected to a second hydraulic component (such as a brake caliper) through a hydraulic hose. The second hydraulic component is hydraulically controlled by hydraulic fluid flowing through the hydraulic hose in response to operation of the first hydraulic component. The hydraulic hose is connected to the metal body of the hydraulic component. Summary of the invention

[0004] In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of a non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic component. In one aspect, a non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic component is provided, wherein a rupture member is disposed in a non-metallic body of the non-metallic bracket.

[0005] In view of the state of the known technology and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic element is provided, the non-metallic bracket basically comprising a non-metallic body and a rupture member. The non-metallic body has a hydraulic hose attachment port and an internal fluid passage. The hydraulic hose attachment port has an insertion opening and an internal attachment hole, the insertion opening being disposed at an outer surface of the non-metallic body, and the internal attachment hole extending from the insertion opening toward the internal fluid passage. The rupture member is disposed in the non-metallic body at a location spaced apart from the insertion opening of the hydraulic hose attachment port.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the first aspect is configured so that the rupture member is a tubular rupture needle having a fluid passage fluidly connecting the hose attachment port to the internal fluid passage.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the second aspect is configured such that the tubular rupture needle and the non-metallic body are an integrally molded, one-piece, one-piece member.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the second aspect is configured such that a tubular rupture pin is bonded to the non-metallic body.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic bracket according to the second aspect is configured so that a tubular insert is disposed in the hydraulic hose attachment port, wherein the tubular rupture needle is supported on the non-metallic body by the tubular insert.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the fifth aspect is configured so that the tubular insert is a metal member.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect is constructed so that the tubular insert and the tubular rupture needle are an integral one-piece member.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic bracket according to one of the first to seventh aspects is configured so that the inner attachment hole of the hydraulic hose attachment port includes a threaded portion.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic bracket according to one of the first to eighth aspects is configured so that the non-metallic body further has a grip portion and a handlebar receiving groove provided at one end portion of the grip portion.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the non-metal bracket according to the ninth aspect is configured so that the non-metal body further has a front saddle portion provided at an opposite end of the grip portion with respect to the handlebar receiving recess.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the ninth aspect or the tenth aspect is configured so that the stent cover covers the gripping portion of the non-metallic body.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic stent according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the stent cover is made of an elastic material.

[0017] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the non-metallic bracket according to one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured such that the non-metallic body is made of a resin material.

[0018] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hydraulic actuating device includes the non-metallic bracket according to the first aspect. The bicycle hydraulic actuating device is configured to further include an operating member and a piston, the operating member being movably mounted to the non-metallic bracket, the piston being operatively connected to the operating member. The piston is movably disposed in a hydraulic chamber of the non-metallic bracket in response to operation of the operating member.

[0019] Other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed non-metallic stent will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses an illustrative embodiment of the non-metallic stent. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this original disclosure:

[0021] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a bicycle handlebar equipped with a bicycle operating device having a non-metallic bracket according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 is Figure 1 A perspective view of a bicycle operating device illustrated in , wherein a bracket cover is shown in phantom;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and 2 A front view of a portion of the non-metallic bracket of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG.

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 1-3 A partial cross-sectional view of a hydraulic attachment port of a non-metallic bracket illustrated in ;

[0025] Figure 5 yes Figure 1-3 A central cross-sectional view of the non-metallic stent illustrated in FIG.

[0026] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 a cross-sectional view of the hydraulic attachment port prior to receiving a hydraulic hose structure;

[0027] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the hydraulic attachment port after receiving a hydraulic hose structure;

[0028] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a hydraulic attachment port of a non-metallic stent according to another illustrative embodiment in which a rupture member is received by a tubular insert; and

[0029] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a hydraulic attachment port of a non-metallic bracket according to yet another illustrative embodiment in which a rupture member is integrally formed with the non-metallic body of the non-metallic bracket as a unitary, one-piece member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Selected exemplary embodiments are now explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from this disclosure that the following description of the exemplary embodiments is provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0031] First refer to Figure 1, a portion of a bicycle handlebar 10 is illustrated as being equipped with a bicycle operating device 12 having a non-metallic bracket 14 according to a first exemplary embodiment. Here, the bicycle operating device 12 is one example of a bicycle hydraulic component. More specifically, the bicycle operating device 12 of the first exemplary embodiment is a brake operating device (i.e., a bicycle hydraulic component) that is fluidly connected to a bicycle disc brake caliper 16 via a hydraulic hose structure 18.

[0032] First refer to Figure 1 , the hydraulic brake system 22 is illustrated to include a bicycle operating device 12 operatively coupled with a hydraulic hose structure 18 (such as a bicycle hydraulic hose structure). The hydraulic hose structure 18 is pre-filled with hydraulic fluid and is sealed at each end so that the hydraulic brake system 22 can be assembled in a relatively easy manner without air being trapped in the hydraulic brake system 22.

[0033] The hydraulic brake system 22 includes a disc brake rotor (not shown) that is fixedly attached to a hub (not shown) of a bicycle wheel (not shown). The bicycle operating device 12 and the brake caliper 16 include conventional bicycle elements that are hydraulically operated in a conventional manner, unless otherwise described below. Because these elements are conventional elements, they will not be described and / or illustrated in detail herein. In addition, the bicycle operating device 12 is mounted to a bicycle. Bicycles and their various elements are well known in the art, and thus, the bicycle and its various elements will not be described or illustrated in detail herein, except for the elements of the bicycle operating device 12. In other words, only the bicycle operating device 12 will be described and illustrated in detail herein. Moreover, because most bicycle operating devices are well known to those skilled in the art, the bicycle operating device 12 will be described and illustrated only to the extent necessary to understand the present disclosure.

[0034] like Figure 1 , the bicycle operating device 12 includes a non-metallic bracket 14 and an operating member 26. The non-metallic bracket 14 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle handlebar 10. The operating member 26 is movably mounted to the non-metallic bracket 14 about a pivot member 26a. As explained below, the operating member 26 is biased to a rest position relative to the non-metallic bracket 14. The operating member 26 actuates the hydraulic brake system 22 when the operating member 26 moves relative to the non-metallic bracket 14 to perform a braking operation of the brake caliper 16 of the hydraulic brake system 22.

[0035] As in Figure 1As can be seen in the figure, the bicycle operating device 12 also includes a shift operating member 28. The shift operating member 28 is disposed on the operating member 26 and is configured to be electrically connected to a bicycle electrical component, such as a shifting device (not shown). The shift operating member 28 is configured to switch the chain or gears of the shifting device. Because various electric shifting systems are known in the bicycle field, the shift operating member 28 will not be discussed herein for the sake of brevity.

[0036] As in Figure 1 and 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , the non-metallic handlebar 14 includes a non-metallic body 30 and an attachment member 31. The non-metallic body 30 basically has a gripping portion 30a. The attachment member 31 and the non-metallic body 30 are capable of sandwiching the bicycle handlebar 10 therebetween. The gripping portion 30a is configured to be gripped by a rider during riding. The attachment member 31 is a generally known band-shaped member, and the bicycle operating device 12 can be fixed to the handlebar 10 by fastening the attachment member 31 relative to the non-metallic body 30 by threads.

[0037] As in Figure 3 As seen in FIG. 1 , the gripping portion 30a extends longitudinally between the first end 30b and the second end 30c of the non-metallic body 30. The non-metallic bracket 14 further includes a bracket cover that covers the gripping portion 30a of the non-metallic body 30. The gripping portion 30a is at least partially covered by the bracket cover 24. The non-metallic body 30 is made of a non-metallic material such as a resin material. The bracket cover 24 is made of an elastic material such as a rubber material. The bracket cover 24 covers the gripping portion 30a of the non-metallic body 30. The bracket cover 24 is preferably removably attached to the non-metallic body 30.

[0038] The top surface or upper surface of the non-metallic body 30 has a surface with a downward curved shape to facilitate the gripping of the gripping portion 30a by hand. A handle receiving groove 32 is formed on the side of the first end 30b of the non-metallic body 30. The handle receiving groove 32 is configured to bend following the curved portion of the handlebar 10. The handlebar receiving groove 32 is provided at one end of the gripping portion 30a of the non-metallic body 30. The gripping portion 30a of the non-metallic body 30 is provided at a substantially middle portion of the non-metallic body 30. A front saddle portion 36 is formed on the side of the second end 30c of the non-metallic body 30. In other words, the front saddle portion 36 is provided at the end of the gripping portion 30a opposite to the handlebar receiving groove 32, so that the gripping portion 30a is provided between the handlebar receiving groove 32 and the front saddle portion 36.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the handlebar attachment member 31, the gripping portion 30a and the front saddle portion 36 are integrally provided as a one-piece integral member. Of course, if necessary and / or desired, the handlebar attachment member 31, the gripping portion 30a and the front saddle portion 36 can have removable members.

[0040] like Figure 1 and 2 As illustrated in FIG, the bracket cover 24 extends over at least a portion of the front saddle portion 36 and the grip portion 30a to provide cushioning for the grip portion 30a of the non-metallic body 30 and to provide an aesthetic appearance. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles that the material of the bracket cover 24 is not limited to an elastic material, and any suitable material may be used for the bracket cover 24 if needed and / or desired.

[0041] As in Figure 1 and 5 As seen in FIG. 1 , a hydraulic fluid pressure generator 38 is provided to provide hydraulic pressure to the brake caliper 16 and cause the brake caliper 16 to brake. The hydraulic fluid pressure generator 38 includes a hydraulic chamber or cylinder 40 and includes a piston 42. The hydraulic chamber 40 is formed in the non-metallic body 30. The piston 42 moves linearly within the hydraulic chamber 40 (i.e., reciprocates linearly within the hydraulic chamber 40). The piston 42 is mechanically connected to the operating member 26 by a pin 44, so that operation of the operating member 26 causes the piston 42 to move through the hydraulic chamber 40 (as in FIG. 1 ). Figure 5 The reservoir 35 is fluidly connected to the hydraulic chamber 40 via a hydraulic fluid passage 45. The hydraulic fluid pressure generator 38 generates hydraulic pressure by operating the piston 42 in the insertion direction of the hydraulic chamber 40.

[0042] The piston 42 has a first sealing member 42a and a second sealing member 42b installed on the outer circumferential surface of the piston 42. The first sealing member 42a and the second sealing member 42b have, for example, an O-ring shape. The first sealing member 42a and the second sealing member 42b are provided to seal the gap between the inner circumferential surface of the movement space 40a of the hydraulic chamber 40 and the outer circumferential surface of the piston 42. Alternatively, the piston 42 may have only one sealing member. The piston 42 moves within the movement space 40a of the hydraulic chamber 40 in response to the braking operation performed by the operating member 26. Therefore, the piston 42 is operatively connected to the operating member 26 and is movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber 40 of the non-metallic bracket 14 in response to the operation of the operating member 26. The biasing member 26b (such as a spring) biases the piston 42 to a rest position. The hydraulic fluid pressure generator 38 also includes an opening 40c, which is connected to the internal fluid channel 54 (such as in Figure 6The hydraulic chamber 40 is fluidly connected to the brake caliper 16 to transmit the hydraulic pressure generated in the hydraulic chamber 40 to the brake caliper 16 through the hydraulic hose structure 18. The operation of the operating member 26 about the pivot member 26a pushes the piston 42 through the hydraulic chamber 40 so that the flange 42c of the piston 42 is moved from the hydraulic chamber 40 to the brake caliper 16. Figure 5 The rest position indicated by the solid line in the figure moves to the brake operation position indicated by the dotted line.

[0043] Now refer to Figure 1 and Figures 4 to 7 , now discuss the dynamic system 22. Figure 1 , 5 6, the brake caliper 16 and the hydraulic chamber 40 may be fluidly coupled together via a hydraulic hose structure 18. Figure 6 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the hydraulic hose structure 18 is completely pre-filled with hydraulic fluid and sealed with seals (50, Figure 6 ) is sealed at each end. Preferably, the hydraulic hose structure 18 has sealing members ( Figure 6 There is no air or other gas between the hydraulic hose structure 18 and the hydraulic chamber 40. Moreover, the hydraulic hose structure 18 is partially inserted into the caliper 16 and the hydraulic chamber 40 in a sealed state, thereby preventing the working fluid in the hydraulic hose structure 18 from flowing into the brake caliper 16 and the hydraulic chamber 40. In addition, as in Figure 7 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the hydraulic hose structure 18 is substantially free of physical seals in response to the hydraulic hose structure 18 being fully inserted into the non-metallic body 30 of the non-metallic bracket 14. A substantially similar insertion procedure inserts the hydraulic hose structure 18 into the brake caliper 16. With the hydraulic hose structure 18, the brake caliper 16, and the hydraulic chamber 40, the hydraulic brake system 22 can be assembled in a relatively simple manner without air being trapped in the hydraulic brake system 22.

[0044] Further references Figure 1 , 4 , 6 and 7, the hydraulic brake system 22 is now discussed in detail. Figure 6 As seen in FIG. 1 , the hydraulic hose structure 18 basically includes a flexible tube 46 (i.e., a hydraulic hose) that forms a filled and sealed hydraulic brake hose. The flexible tube 46 is a conventional flexible tube that is used to transfer hydraulic fluid under pressure from the hydraulic chamber 40 ( Figure 5 ) is transmitted to the brake caliper 16. The first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 is coupled to the hydraulic chamber 40, and the second end portion 46b of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 is coupled to the brake caliper 16. The flexible tube 46 has an internal passage 46c extending between the first end portion 46a and the second end portion 46b of the flexible tube 46. Figure 6As shown in FIG. 1 , the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 includes a rigid insert 48. The second end portion 46b of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 is similarly constructed, and thus, a description thereof is omitted herein for the sake of brevity.

[0045] The rigid insert 48 has an annular flange section 48a and a tubular section 48b. A longitudinal channel 48c passes through the tubular section 48b and the flange section 48a. The outer surface of the tubular section 48b has a plurality of inclined hooks so that the tubular section 48b is firmly held in the internal channel 46c of the flexible tube 46. The rigid insert 48 is designed to be held in the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 and to provide radial support at the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46. Therefore, the rigid insert 48 is constructed of a rigid material (such as a metal material). For example, the rigid insert 48 can be formed of copper or a copper alloy. Of course, any suitable rigid material can be used for the rigid insert 48 if necessary and / or desired.

[0046] As in Figure 6 As seen in the figure, the hydraulic hose structure 18 also includes a sealing member 50 for sealing the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46. The sealing member 50 is preferably formed of a thin flexible metal foil. The sealing member 50 is adhesively attached to the flange section 48a to cover the opening of the passage 46c. Thus, the seal 50 forms a seal that seals the opening of the first end of the hydraulic hose structure 18. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the opening in the flange section 48a of the rigid insert 48 forms the first opening of the first end portion 46a of the hydraulic hose structure 18. The second end of the hydraulic hose structure 18 is similarly constructed, and thus, a description thereof is omitted herein for the sake of brevity.

[0047] The non-metallic body 30 has a hydraulic hose attachment port 52 and an internal fluid passage 54, such as Figure 6 and 7 . The hydraulic hose attachment port 52 has an insertion opening 56 and an internal attachment hole 58, the insertion opening being provided on the outer surface of the non-metallic body 30, and the internal attachment hole extending from the insertion opening 56 toward the internal fluid passage 54. The internal attachment hole 58 includes an internal thread or spiral portion 58a extending from the insertion opening 56 toward the internal fluid passage 54. A stepped portion 58b is provided between the internal thread portion 58a of the internal attachment hole 58 and the internal fluid passage 54. The internal fluid passage 54 extends from the hydraulic chamber 40 to the internal attachment hole 58, thereby fluidly connecting the hydraulic chamber 40 with the hydraulic hose structure 18.

[0048] The rupture member 60 is disposed in the non-metallic body 30 at a location spaced apart from the insertion opening 56 of the hydraulic hose attachment port 52, such as Figure 6 and7 As shown. The rupture member 60 has a tubular end portion 60a, an annular flange segment 60b and a tubular body portion 60c. A longitudinal passage 60d passes through the tubular end portion 60a, the annular flange segment 60b and the tubular body portion 60c. The rupture member 60 is coupled to the internal fluid passage 54 that is in fluid communication with the hydraulic chamber 40. Therefore, the rupture member 60 is a tubular rupture needle having a fluid passage 60d that fluidly connects the hose attachment port 52 to the internal fluid passage 54. The outer diameter of the annular flange segment 60b of the rupture member 60 is larger than the diameter of the internal fluid passage 54, thereby seating the rupture member 60 at the end of the internal attachment hole 58. The rupture member 60 may be disposed in the internal attachment hole 58 in any suitable manner. As shown in Figure 6 and 7 As seen in FIG. 1 , the tubular rupture needle is coupled to the non-metallic body 30. The rupture member 60 is constructed of a rigid material, such as a metallic material. Of course, any suitable rigid material may be used for the rupture member 60 if needed and / or desired.

[0049] A bushing or olive 62 is disposed in the interior attachment hole 58, such as Figure 6 and 7 . The bushing 62 is received by the stepped portion 58b of the inner attachment hole 58. The stepped portion 58b limits the insertion of the bushing 62 in the direction toward the inner fluid passage 54 because the diameter at the stepped portion 58b of the inner attachment hole 58 is smaller than the outer diameter of the bushing 62. The bushing 62 is disposed between the rupture member 60 and the insertion opening 56. The bushing 62 has an internal passage 62a extending therethrough, as shown in Figure 6 . The bushing 62 has a tapered contact surface 62b facing the insertion opening 56. Therefore, the bushing 62 is constructed of a rigid material (such as a metal material). Of course, any suitable rigid material can be used for the bushing 62 if needed and / or desired.

[0050] The hose fastening fitting 64 is configured to be received by the hydraulic hose attachment port 52. Figure 6 and 7As seen in FIG. 1 , the hose fastening assembly 64 has a flange section 64a and a threaded portion 64b extending from the flange section 64a. The threaded portion 64b is configured to be received by the internal threaded portion 58a of the attachment hole 58. The longitudinal passage 64c extends through the hose fastening assembly 64. When the first end portion 46a of the hydraulic hose structure 18 is fixed to the non-metallic body 30, the engagement portion 64d of the hose fastening assembly 64 is configured to engage the bushing 62. The engagement portion 64d is preferably tapered to facilitate engagement with the contact surface 62b of the bushing 62. The longitudinal passage 64c has an internal tapered portion 64e, which is configured to facilitate insertion of the first end portion 46a. The internal tapered portion 64e is disposed at the end of the longitudinal passage 64c of the hose fastening assembly 64 opposite to the engagement portion 64b. Therefore, the hose fastening assembly 64 is constructed of a rigid material (such as a metal material). Of course, any suitable rigid material can be used for the hose fastening assembly 64 if necessary and / or desired.

[0051] Reference Figure 6 and 7 , the seal 50 prevents fluid communication between the hydraulic chamber 40 and the internal passage 46 c of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 until the seal member 50 is ruptured by the rupture member 60. On the other hand, in response to the first end portion 46 a of the flexible tube 46 being fully inserted into the internal attachment hole 58 of the hydraulic hose attachment port 52 of the non-metallic body 30, the seal member 50 can be easily ruptured by the rupture member 60.

[0052] The method of assembling each element of the hydraulic brake system 22 and the method of assembling the hydraulic brake system 22 are now discussed, wherein the hydraulic brake system 22 can be assembled in a relatively easy manner without air being trapped in the hydraulic brake system 22. Unless otherwise stated, the following method of assembling the hydraulic brake system 22 can be operated in a different order than that discussed herein. That is, this method of assembling the hydraulic brake system 22 is not limited to the following assembly order unless otherwise stated. As shown in Figure 1 and 6 As seen in the figure, in the illustrated embodiment, the flexible tube 46 is completely filled with hydraulic fluid, and the opposite ends of the flexible tube 46 are sealed with sealing members 50. In particular, after the flexible tube 46 is completely filled with hydraulic fluid, the seal 50 is attached to the flange section 48a of the rigid insert 48. In this way, the sealing member 50 covers and seals the first opening of the first end portion 46a and the second opening of the second end portion 46b of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 for confining the hydraulic fluid within the flexible tube 46.

[0053] As in Figure 6As seen in FIG. 1 , before the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 of the hydraulic hose structure 18 is coupled to the hydraulic hose attachment port 52 of the non-metallic body 30, the rupture member 60 and the bushing 62 are disposed in the internal attachment hole 58 and the hose fastening fitting 64 is threadedly engaged with the internal threaded portion 58a of the internal attachment hole 58. Before the hydraulic hose structure 18 is secured to the non-metallic body, the flange section 64a of the hose fastening fitting 64 is spaced apart from the outer surface of the non-metallic body 30.

[0054] Next, as in Figure 7 As seen in FIG. 6 , the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 is inserted through the hose fastening fitting 64. The inwardly tapered portion 64e of the hose fastening fitting 64 facilitates the insertion of the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 into the hose fastening fitting 64. The first end portion 46a is inserted through the hose fastening fitting 64 and through the bushing 62 until the flange segment 48a abuts the annular flange segment 60b of the rupture member 60, thereby causing the tubular end portion 60a to penetrate and rupture the sealing member 50. In particular, in response to the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 being coupled to the hydraulic hose attachment port 52, the tubular end portion 60a pierces the sealing member 50 and is inserted into the passage 48c of the rigid insert 48. The fluid path is formed from the hydraulic chamber 40 through the internal fluid passage 54, through the rupture member 60 to the internal passage 46c of the flexible tube 46.

[0055] The hose fastening fitting 64 is screwed into the internal attachment hole 58 to secure the first end portion 46a of the hydraulic hose structure 18 to the non-metallic body 30 of the non-metallic bracket 14. As the hose fastening fitting 64 is tightened, the engagement portion 64d of the hose fastening fitting 64 engages the tapered contact surface 62b of the bushing 62, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 , thereby deforming the bushing 62. The hose fastening fitting 64 is configured to be tensioned until the flange section 64a engages the outer surface of the non-metallic body 30. The resulting deformation of the bushing 62 causes the inward deformation of the bushing 62, thereby engaging and securely retaining the first end portion 46a of the flexible tube 46 within the hydraulic hose attachment port 52.

[0056] A substantially similar procedure is performed at the second end portion 46b of the flexible tube 46 to fix the second end portion 46b to the brake caliper 16, thereby forming a fluid path between the hydraulic chamber 40 and the brake caliper 16. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a detailed description of the assembly steps of the brake caliper 16 and the second end portion 46b of the hydraulic hose structure 18 will be omitted. Through this assembly method, the hydraulic brake system 22 can be assembled in a relatively easy manner without air being trapped in the hydraulic brake system 22.

[0057] As in Figure 8As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the non-metal bracket 114 for a bicycle hydraulic component according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar to the non-metal bracket 14 for a bicycle hydraulic component of the first exemplary embodiment, except for the differences described below. Like parts are indicated by like reference numerals, except that the reference numerals are increased by 100 (i.e., 1xx).

[0058] The tubular insert 170 is disposed in the attachment hole 158, as shown in FIG. Figure 8 . The tubular insert 170 is located between the internal threaded portion 158a of the attachment hole 158 and the internal fluid passage 154. The tubular insert 170 has an inwardly tapered end 172 configured to receive the bushing 162. The step portion 174 of the tubular insert 170 is configured to receive the rupture member 160. The inner diameter portion of the opening 176 of the tubular insert 170 is configured to receive the tubular body portion 160c of the rupture member 160. Therefore, the tubular insert 170 is disposed in the hydraulic hose attachment port 152, wherein the tubular rupture needle 160 is supported on the non-metallic body 130 by the tubular insert 170.

[0059] The tubular insert 170 may be connected to the non-metallic body 130 in any suitable manner, such as by bonding. The rupture member 160 may be connected to the tubular insert 170 in any suitable manner, such as by bonding. Alternatively, the tubular insert 170 and the tubular rupture needle 160 may be an integral, one-piece member.

[0060] The flexible tube 146 is assembled to the hydraulic hose attachment port 152 of the non-metallic body 130, substantially similar to the method described above for the first exemplary embodiment. The tubular insert 170 is constructed of a rigid material, such as a metallic material. Of course, any suitable rigid material may be used for the tubular insert 170 if needed and / or desired. Thus, the tubular insert 170 may be a metallic member. When the hose fastening assembly 164 is tightened, the rigidity of the tubular insert 170 facilitates deformation when the bushing 162 is deformed due to the engagement of the hose fastening assembly 164.

[0061] As in Fig. 9 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the non-metallic bracket 214 for a bicycle hydraulic component according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention is substantially similar to the non-metallic bracket 14 for a bicycle hydraulic component according to the first exemplary embodiment, except for the differences described below. Like components are denoted by like reference numerals, except that the reference numerals are incremented by 200 (i.e., 2xx).

[0062] The rupture member 260 is integrally molded with the non-metallic body 230, such as Fig. 9As shown in . Therefore, the tubular rupture needle 260 and the non-metallic body 230 are an integral one-piece member molded integrally. Therefore, the rupture member 260 is made of a non-metallic material (such as a resin material).

[0063] Assembling the flexible tube 246 to the hydraulic hose attachment port 252 of the non-metallic body 230 is substantially similar to the method described above for the first exemplary embodiment. By integrally molding the rupture member 260 and the non-metallic body 230, the step of providing the rupture member 260 in the non-metallic body is not required.

[0064] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the terms "comprises" and their derivatives used herein are intended to be open-ended limiting terms that specify the presence of listed features, elements, parts, groups, wholes and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unlisted features, elements, parts, groups, wholes and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising", "having" and their derivatives. Similarly, the terms "part", "segment", "portion", "member" or "element" when used in the singular may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise specified.

[0065] As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "upright", "horizontal", "vertical", and "lateral", and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a bicycle equipped with the non-metallic stand in an upright, riding position. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe the non-metallic stand should be interpreted relative to a bicycle equipped with the non-metallic stand in an upright, riding position on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to mean "right" when referenced to the right side as viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and to mean "left" when referenced to the left side as viewed from the rear of the bicycle.

[0066] As used herein, the following terms "ring" and "tubular" are not limited to continuous ring-shaped members or portions. Rather, the terms "ring" and "tubular" as used herein refer to members having an overall "ring-shaped" structure, and include open rings as well as rings having one or more gaps. Similarly, the term "tubular" as used herein refers to members having an overall "tubular" structure, and includes open tubular members or portions as well as tubular members or portions having one or more gaps.

[0067] Likewise, it will be appreciated that, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present invention, for example, the first element discussed above may be referred to as the second element, and vice versa. The term "attached" or "attachment" used herein includes the following configurations: a configuration in which an element is directly fixed to another element by attaching the element directly to another element; a configuration in which an element is indirectly fixed to another element by attaching the element to one or more intermediate members which are in turn attached to another element; and a configuration in which an element is integral with another element, i.e., an element is actually a part of another element. This limitation also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as "coupling", "connection", "coupling", "installation", "combination", "fixing" and their derivatives. Finally, the degree terms of "substantially", "approximately" and "about" used herein, for example, represent the amount of deviation that modifies the term so that the final result does not change significantly.

[0068] Although only the selected embodiments are selected to illustrate the present invention, it is obvious to those skilled in the art from the present disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, location or direction of various elements can be changed if necessary and / or desired, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the elements shown to be directly connected or in contact with each other can be provided with intermediate structures between them, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. The function of an element can be realized by two elements, and vice versa, unless otherwise specifically stated. The structure and function of an embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. For all advantages, it is not necessary to exist in a specific embodiment at the same time. For each feature that is unique relative to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, it should also be considered by the applicant as a separate description of a further invention, which includes the structural concept and / or functional concept embodied by such one or more features. Therefore, the above description of these embodiments according to the present invention is only for illustration, and is not intended to limit the invention defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A non-metallic bracket for a bicycle hydraulic component, the non-metallic bracket include: a non-metallic body having a hydraulic hose attachment port and an internal fluid passage, the hydraulic hose attachment port having an insertion opening and an internal attachment hole, the insertion opening being disposed at an outer surface of the non-metallic body, the internal attachment hole extending from the insertion opening toward the internal fluid passage; a rupture member disposed in the non-metallic body at a location spaced from an insertion opening of the hydraulic hose attachment port; and a tubular insert disposed in the hydraulic hose attachment port, wherein the rupture member is supported on the non-metallic body by the tubular insert; wherein the tubular insert includes a stepped portion configured to receive an annular flange segment of a rupture member; The open inner diameter portion of the tubular insert is configured to receive the tubular body portion of the rupture member.

2. The non-metallic stent according to claim 1, wherein The rupture member is a tubular rupture needle having a fluid passageway fluidly connecting the hydraulic hose attachment port to the internal fluid passageway.

3. The non-metallic stent according to claim 1, wherein The tubular insert is made of a rigid material.

4. The non-metallic stent according to claim 3, further comprising A bushing is disposed in the interior attachment aperture, wherein the tubular insert has an inwardly tapered end configured to receive the bushing.

5. The non-metallic stent according to claim 4, further comprising A hose fastening fitting is configured to be received by the hydraulic hose attachment port to engage the bushing to cause deformation of the bushing.

6. The non-metallic stent according to claim 3, wherein The tubular insert is a metal component.

7. The non-metallic stent according to claim 5, wherein The engagement portion of the hose fastening fitting for engaging the bushing is tapered, and the longitudinal passage of the hose fastening fitting has an inner tapered portion.

8. The non-metallic stent according to claim 1, wherein The internal attachment hole of the hydraulic hose attachment port includes a threaded portion.

9. The non-metallic stent according to claim 1, wherein The non-metallic body also has a grip portion and a handlebar receiving recess disposed at one end of the grip portion.

10. The non-metallic stent according to claim 9, wherein The non-metallic body also has a front saddle portion disposed at an end of the grip portion opposite the handlebar receiving recess.

11. The non-metallic stent according to claim 1, wherein The non-metallic body includes a non-metallic base member and a bracket cover covering a gripping portion of the non-metallic base member.

12. The non-metallic stent according to claim 11, wherein The non-metallic base member is made of a resin material.

13. The non-metallic stent according to claim 12, wherein The bracket cover is made of elastic material.

14. A bicycle hydraulic actuating device, comprising the non-metallic bracket according to claim 1, wherein the bicycle hydraulic actuating device further comprises: include: an operating member movably mounted to the non-metallic bracket; as well as A piston is operatively connected to the operating member and is movably disposed in the hydraulic chamber of the non-metallic bracket in response to operation of the operating member.

Images