Bicycle operating device

Abstract

A bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operated member, and a cover member. The base member is configured to be mounted to a bicycle portion. The base member has an interior region and an access opening communicating with the interior region. The operated member is movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position. The cover member is slidably coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position closing the access opening and a second position at least partially exposing the access opening. The cover member has a first portion disposed outside the base member and a second portion disposed in the interior region of the base member.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a bicycle operating device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Bicycles are often provided with one or more bicycle operating devices for operating one or more bicycle components. Examples of some of these bicycle components include gear shifting devices (e.g., a derailleur or an internally geared hub), suspension, and seat posts. Bicycle operating devices are often provided on a bicycle in a position that makes it easy for a rider to operate the bicycle operating device (e.g., on the handlebars of the bicycle). Bicycle operating devices are often connected to the bicycle components using Bowden-type control cables. SUMMARY

[0003] Generally, the present disclosure relates to various features of bicycle operating devices for bicycles.

[0004] In view of the state of the art and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a bicycle operating device substantially comprising a base member, an operated member, and a cover member. The base member is configured to be mounted to a bicycle part. The base member has an interior region and an access opening communicating with the interior region. The operated member is movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position. The cover member is slidably coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position, in which the cover member closes the access opening, and a second position, in which the cover member at least partially uncovers the access opening. The cover member has a first portion disposed outside the base member and a second portion disposed in the interior region of the base member.

[0005] With the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect, the interior region of the base member can be easily accessed by sliding the cover member between the first position, in which the cover member closes the access opening, and the second position, in which the cover member at least partially uncovers the access opening.

[0006] In view of the state of the art and in accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a bicycle operating device substantially comprising a base member, an operated member, and a cover member. The base member is configured to be mounted to a bicycle part. The base member has an interior region and an access opening communicating with the interior region. The operated member is movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position. The cover member is slidably coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position, in which the cover member closes the access opening, and a second position, in which the cover member at least partially uncovers the access opening. The cover member is slidably disposed on a flat surface of the base member.

[0007] With the bicycle operating device according to the second aspect, the interior region of the base member can be easily accessed by sliding the cover member between the first position, in which the cover member closes the access opening, and the second position, in which the cover member at least partially uncovers the access opening.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect or the second aspect is configured such that the cover member sandwiches a portion of the base member that defines the entry opening.

[0009] With the bicycle operating device according to the third aspect, the cover member can be reliably supported to the base member.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the third aspect is configured such that the base member has a first housing portion having the entry opening completely surrounded by the first housing portion, and the base member has a second housing portion attached to the first housing portion.

[0011] With the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect, the base member can be easily manufactured, and the bicycle operating device can be easily assembled.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the fourth aspect further includes a take-up member disposed in an inner region of the base member and movable relative to the base member, wherein the cover member overlaps a portion of an inner surface of the base member when the cover member is in the second position.

[0013] With the bicycle operating device according to the fifth aspect, the bicycle operating device can be used to operate a cable-operated bicycle component.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the fifth aspect is configured such that at least one of the cover member and the base member is elastically deformable.

[0015] With the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect, the cover member can be easily installed in the entry opening of the base member.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the cover member is elastically deformable.

[0017] With the bicycle operating device according to the seventh aspect, the cover member can be elastically deformed to be installed in the entry opening of the base member.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect is configured such that the cover member includes an outer surface having a structure that facilitates gripping of the cover member.

[0019] With the bicycle operating device according to the eighth aspect, the cover member can be more easily moved between the first position that closes the entry opening and the second position that at least partially exposes the entry opening.

[0020] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the eighth aspect is configured such that the entry opening includes a straight edge portion slidably engaged with the cover member.

[0021] With the bicycle operating device according to the ninth aspect, the cover member can be more easily slid on the straight edge portion between the first position in which the entry opening is closed and the second position in which the entry opening is at least partially exposed.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the ninth aspect is configured such that the entry opening has a quadrilateral shape.

[0023] With the bicycle operating device according to the tenth aspect, the base member and the cover member can be manufactured to have a simple shape.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the tenth aspect is configured such that the cover member includes a first recess that receives a first sliding edge portion of the base member.

[0025] With the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the cover member can be more easily slid on the first sliding edge portion between the first position in which the entry opening is closed and the second position in which the entry opening is at least partially exposed.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect is configured such that the cover member includes a second recess that receives a second sliding edge portion of the base member, the first sliding edge portion and the second sliding edge portion being parallel and located on opposite sides of the entry opening.

[0027] With the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the cover member can be reliably coupled to the base member and easily slid on the first sliding edge portion and the second sliding edge portion.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the base member includes a first end edge portion and a second end edge portion. The first end edge portion and the second end edge portion are transverse to the sliding direction. The cover member includes an extension portion disposed in an inner region of the base member. The extension portion extends beyond one of the first end edge portion and the second end edge portion in the sliding direction in a state in which the cover member is located in the first position.

[0029] With the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the cover member can completely cover the entry opening in a state in which the cover member is located in the first position.

[0030] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect is configured such that the base member comprises a recess, the recess being provided on an inner surface of the base member, the recess receiving the extension portion in case the cover member is in the first position closing the access opening.

[0031] With the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the cover member can be reliably held in the first position closing the access opening.

[0032] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects further comprises a take-up member, the take-up member being provided in an inner region of the base member and being movable relative to the base member. The take-up member is configured to move relative to the base member to selectively move the cable in a pulling direction and in a release direction opposite to the pulling direction. The take-up member comprises a cable attachment structure configured to attach the cable to the take-up member. The operated member is operably connected by the cable such that operation of the operated member is associated with the take-up member.

[0033] With the bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, the bicycle operating device can be used to operate a cable operated bicycle component.

[0034] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects further comprises a handlebar mounting member and a take-up member. The handlebar mounting member defines a handlebar receiving opening having a handlebar axis. The take-up member is provided in an inner region of the base member and is movable relative to the base member. The take-up member is rotatably mounted relative to the base member about a rotation axis, the rotation axis being contained in a predetermined reference plane perpendicular to the handlebar axis. The operated member has a user input portion, the user input portion being provided on a first side of the predetermined reference plane. The access opening of the base member is provided on the first side of the predetermined reference plane.

[0035] With the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the bicycle operating device can be conveniently positioned on a handlebar and the user input portion can be easily operated.

[0036] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the base member has an edge defining the access opening, the edge having a first point and a second point. The first point and the second point are located on opposite sides of the access opening in a direction parallel to the rotation axis. The first point is spaced apart from the rotation axis by a first distance. The second point is spaced apart from the rotation axis by a second distance different from the first distance.

[0037] With the bicycle operation device according to the seventeenth aspect, the base member can be manufactured inexpensively and easily by an injection molding method using a straight pull mold.

[0038] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operation device according to the sixteenth aspect or the seventeenth aspect is configured such that the base member defines an exit hole through which the cable passes out. The exit hole, the cable attachment structure, and the entry opening are aligned on one straight line when the take-up member is located at a predetermined phase.

[0039] With the bicycle operation device according to the eighteenth aspect, the cable can be easily coupled to the take-up member.

[0040] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operation device according to any one of the first aspect to the eighteenth aspect is configured such that the cover member includes a structure that generates a tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to a first position.

[0041] With the bicycle operation device according to the nineteenth aspect, a user can reliably determine when the cover member reaches the first position.

[0042] According to a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operation device according to any one of the first aspect to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the cover member includes a structure that generates a tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to a second position.

[0043] With the bicycle operation device according to the twentieth aspect, a user can reliably determine when the cover member reaches the second position.

[0044] According to a twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operation device according to any one of the first aspect to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the sliding direction runs on a plane that is not parallel to an axis of rotation of the take-up member.

[0045] With the bicycle operation device according to the twenty-first aspect, the cover member can be easily accessed.

[0046] According to a twenty-second aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operation device according to any one of the first aspect to the twentieth aspect is configured such that the sliding direction runs on a plane that is not perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the take-up member.

[0047] With the bicycle operation device according to the twenty-second aspect, the cover member can be easily accessed.

[0048] According to a twenty-third aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operation device according to any one of the first aspect to the twenty-second aspect other than the seventh aspect is configured such that the cover member is made of a plastic material.

[0049] With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-third aspect, the cover member can be lightweight and not rust.

[0050] According to a twenty-third aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the twenty-second aspect is configured such that the cover member is made of a metal material.

[0051] With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the cover member can be durable.

[0052] Further objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle operating device will become easier understood for those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which disclose a preferred embodiment of the bicycle operating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0053] Reference will now be made to the drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure, wherein:

[0054] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a part of a bicycle handlebar equipped with the bicycle operating device according to one exemplary embodiment;

[0055] Figure 2 is Figure 1 is a top view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar, wherein the first and second operated members are in a rest position, and wherein the cover member is in a first position closing the access opening;

[0056] Figure 3 is similar to Figure 2 is Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a top plan view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar, but wherein the cover member is in a second position exposing the access opening;

[0057] Figure 4 is Figures 1 to 3 is a perspective view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar, wherein the cover member is in a first position closing the access opening;

[0058] Figure 5 is similar to Figure 4 is Figures 1 to 4 is a perspective view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar, but wherein the cover member is in a second position exposing the access opening;

[0059] Figure 6 is Figures 1 to 5 is an outer side elevational view of the bicycle operating device, wherein the user input portion of the second operated member is omitted, and wherein the cover member is in a first position closing the access opening;

[0060] Figure 7 similar to Figure 6 is Figures 1 to 6 an outer side elevational view of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0061] Figure 8 is Figures 1 to 6 a top plan view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar shown in

[0062] Figure 9 is Figures 1 to 8 a top plan view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar shown in

[0063] Figure 10 is Figures 1 to 9 a top plan view of the bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebar shown in

[0064] Figure 11 is Figures 1 to 10 a bottom plan view of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0065] Figure 12 is Figures 1 to 11 an inner side elevational view of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0066] Figure 13 is Figures 1 to 12 a partial exploded perspective view of selected portions of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0067] Figure 14 is Figures 1 to 12 a top view of selected portions of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0068] Figure 15 similar to Figure 14 is Figures 1 to 12 a top view of selected portions of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0069] Figure 16 is Figures 1 to 12 a partial bottom plan view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member of the bicycle operating device shown in

[0070] Figure 17 similar toFigure 16 is a partial bottom view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, with the cover member in the second position exposing the access opening;

[0071] Figure 18 similar to Figure 16 and Figure 17 is a partial bottom view of the first housing portion of the base member, with the cover member omitted;

[0072] Figure 19 is Figures 1 to 12 is a partial bottom view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, with the cover member in the first position closing the access opening;

[0073] Figure 20 similar to Figure 19 is a partial bottom view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, with the cover member in the second position exposing the access opening;

[0074] Figure 21 similar to Figure 19 and Figure 20 is a partial bottom view of the first housing portion of the base member, with the cover member omitted;

[0075] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, taken along section line 22-22 of Figure 16 ;

[0076] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, taken along section line 23-23 of Figure 17 ;

[0077] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, taken along section line 24-24 of Figure 19 ;

[0078] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, taken along section line 25-25 of Figure 20 ;

[0079] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, taken along section line 26-26 of Figure 19 ;

[0080] Figure 27 is an oblique cross-sectional view of the first housing portion of the base member and the cover member, taken along section line 27-27 of Figure 20 ;

[0081] Figure 28 isFigures 1 to 12 A first perspective view of a selected portion of a cover component for a bicycle operating device;

[0082] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A second perspective view of a selected portion of the cover component shown;

[0083] Figure 30 yes Figure 28 and Figure 29 A third perspective view of a selected portion of the cover component shown. Detailed Implementation

[0084] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art of bicycles will understand from this disclosure that the following description of embodiments is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention to the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0085] First refer to Figures 1 to 5 A portion of the handlebars H of a bicycle is shown equipped with a bicycle operating device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Here, the bicycle operating device 10 essentially includes a base member 12, an operated member 14, and a cover member 16. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle portion, which here is the handlebars H. However, the base member 12 may be configured to be mounted to other bicycle portions.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is, for example, arranged on the right side of the handlebar H for operation by the rider's right hand. Alternatively, the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured as a mirror image and arranged on the left side of the handlebar H. Although the handlebar H in the illustrated embodiment is a flat handlebar (mountain bike handlebar), the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured to be mounted to other types of handlebars, such as drop handlebars (road bike handlebars). The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a handlebar mounting member 18. The handlebar mounting member 18 defines a handlebar receiving opening 18a having a handlebar axis A1. The handlebar mounting member 18 is configured to be mounted to the handlebar H in a conventional manner. The handlebar mounting member 18 is preferably made of a strong and rigid material, such as a metal or a reinforced resin material. Here, the handlebar mounting member 18 includes a handlebar clamp 20 and a fastening bolt 22 for fastening the handlebar clamp 20 surrounding the handlebar H. Although the handlebar clamp 20 is shown as a single, integral component (i.e., a non-hinge clamp), the handlebar clamp 20 can be a hinge clamp with a pair of curved claws that are pivotally connected at one end and adjustablely connected at the other end by a fastening bolt 22.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured to be operably connected to the bicycle component BC via cable C. Preferably, asFigure 1 As shown, the cable C is a conventional bicycle operating cable having an outer casing C1 covering an inner wire C2. In other words, the cable C is a Bowden type cable, wherein the inner wire C2 is slidably received in the outer casing C1. The inner wire C2 has a cable joint or attachment barrel C3 (see Figure 7 and Figure 12 ) for attaching the inner wire C2 to the bicycle operating device 10, as described below. The bicycle operating device 10 operates a bicycle component BC by selectively pulling or releasing the inner wire C2. Thus, the bicycle operating device 10 constitutes a bicycle cable operating device. As described below, the inner wire C2 of the cable C is pulled into and released from the base member 12.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured as a shifter for controlling a gear shift of a shift device (bicycle component), such as a derailleur or an internally geared hub. However, the bicycle operating device 10 can be used as a bicycle control device for operating other types of bicycle components (e.g. suspension, adjustable seat post, etc.) as desired and / or as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the bicycle operating device 10 has a plurality of operating positions.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 comprises an additional operated member 24. The user selectively operates the operated member 14 to pull the inner wire C2 of the cable C or operates the additional operated member 24 to release the inner wire C2 of the cable C. Thus, the operated member 14 constitutes a first user operated member and the additional operated member 24 constitutes a second user operated member.

[0090] Here, the operated member 14 and the additional operated member 24 are levers pivotably mounted to the base member 12. Thus, the operated member 14 is a wire pulling lever for pulling the inner wire C2 of the cable C into the base member 12. On the other hand, the additional operated member 24 is a wire release lever for releasing the inner wire C2 of the cable C from the base member 12. However, the bicycle operating device 10 is not limited to such an illustrated configuration. For example, the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured to have only a single operated member which performs both a pulling operation and a release operation. Furthermore, the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured to have one or more operated members which are linearly movable relative to the base member 12.

[0091] The operated member 14 is movable relative to the base member 12 between a rest position and an operating position. In particular, as Figure 2 and Figure 8 shown, the operated member 14 is pivotably mounted relative to the base member 12 to pivot about a pivot axis A2 in a first direction D1 in the operating position and in a second direction D2 in the rest position. Figure 2) and an operating position Figure 8 ) to an operating position Figure 2 ) to an operating position Figure 8 ) to an operating position

[0092] Like the operated member 14, the additional operated member 24 is movable with respect to the base member 12 between a rest position and an operating position. In particular, as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 9 , the additional operated member 24 is pivotably mounted with respect to the base member 12 to move about a pivot axis A2 in a second direction D2 between a rest position Figure 2 ) and an operating position Figure 9 ). As will be described hereinafter, the release operation of the inner wire C2 is performed by this pivotal movement of the additional operated member 24 in the second direction D2 from the rest position Figure 2 ) to the operating position Figure 8 ). However, the additional operated member 24 is also pivotably mounted with respect to the base member 12 to move about a pivot axis A3 in a third direction D3 between a rest position Figure 2 ) and an operating position Figure 10 ). The pivot axis A3 is offset from and parallel to the pivot axis A2. As will be described hereinafter, the release operation of the inner wire C2 is performed by this pivotal movement of the additional operated member 24 in the third direction D3 from the rest position Figure 2 ) to the operating position Figure 10 ). As the configuration of the additional operated member 24 is known, the operation and configuration of the additional operated member 24 will not be discussed in further detail.

[0093] The base member 12 has an inner region 26 and an access opening 28 communicating with the inner region 26. Essentially, the base member 12 has a first housing portion 30 and a second housing portion 32. The first housing portion 30 has the access opening 28. The access opening 28 is completely surrounded by the first housing portion 30. The second housing portion 32 is attached to the first housing portion 30. For example, the first housing portion 30 and the second housing portion 32 can snap together or be fastened together by fasteners such as screws. Alternatively, the first housing portion 30 and the second housing portion 32 can be adhesively fastened together.

[0094] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the second housing portion 32 has a cutout 36 formed at the joint where the second housing portion 32 mates with the first housing portion 30. An additional operated member 24 extends through the cutout 36. The cutout 36 is sized to allow the additional operated member 24 to... Figure 2 Move from rest position to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The operating location. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the second housing portion 32 also has a function for receiving such as Figure 11 The opening 38 of the manipulated member 14 shown.

[0095] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 defines an outlet hole 40 through which the cable C exits. Figure 11 As shown, the outlet hole 40 is configured as a receiving tube adjustment member 42. The outlet hole 40 is aligned with the inlet opening 28 so that the cable C can be inserted straight into the inlet opening 28 and come out straight out of the outlet hole 40.

[0096] The cover member 16 is slidably disposed in the access opening 28. Specifically, the cover member 16 is in a first position closing the access opening 28 in the sliding direction SD. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 ) and at least partially expose the second position entering the opening 28 ( Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7The cover member 16 is slidably coupled to the base member 12 between the first end 22 and the second end 24. Preferably, at least one of the cover member 16 and the base member 12 is elastically deformable. As such, the cover member 16 can be easily installed into the access opening 28 of the base member 12. In the case where the base member 12 is made of a rigid material such as a rigid plastic material or a metal material, then the cover member 16 is elastically deformable. On the other hand, in the case where the cover member 16 is made of a rigid material such as a rigid plastic material or a metal material, then the base member 12 is elastically deformable. Thus, in the case where the base member 12 is elastically deformable, the cover member 16 is made of a plastic material or the cover member 16 is made of a metal material.

[0097] Reference will now be made to Figures 13 to 15 The internal portion of the base member 12 and the bicycle operating device 10 will now be discussed. Essentially, the base member 12 further comprises an internal support supporting the internal portion of the bicycle operating device 10, the internal support having a first support plate 44, a second support plate 46 and a mounting bolt 48. A fixing nut 50 (see Figure 11 threaded onto the mounting bolt 48 to connect the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46.

[0098] The operated member 14 is also pivotally supported on the mounting bolt 48. The mounting bolt 48 also defines a pivot axis A2. An additional operated member 24 is movably coupled to the second support plate 46 for selective pivoting about the pivot axis A2 or the pivot axis A3. The bicycle operating device 10 further comprises a biasing element 54 for biasing the operated member 14 and the additional operated member 24 to their respective rest positions. The biasing element 54 has one end operably coupled to the operated member 14 and another end operably coupled to the additional operated member 24. As such, the operated member 14 and the additional operated member 24 are configured to have a trigger action such that each of the operated member 14 and the additional operated member 24 automatically returns to the rest position once moved from the rest position to the operating position and released.

[0099] The handlebar mounting member 18, the first housing portion 30 and the second housing portion 32 are fixed to the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46. Thus, the handlebar mounting member 18, the first housing portion 30, the second housing portion 32, the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46 can be considered as the static base of the bicycle operating device 10. The handlebar mounting member 18 is removably attached to the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46. In particular, the handlebar clamp 20 of the handlebar mounting member 18 is attached to the first support plate 44 by a first fastening bolt 56. The handlebar clamp 20 of the handlebar mounting member 18 is attached to the second support plate 46 by a second fastening bolt 58.

[0100] The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a winding member 60. The winding member 60 is disposed within the inner region 26 of the base member 12 and is movable relative to the base member 12. The winding member 60 is configured to move relative to the base member 12 to selectively move the cable in a pulling direction X1 and in a release direction X2 opposite to the pulling direction. Here, the winding member 60 is rotatably mounted on a mounting bolt 48. Therefore, the pivot axis A2 of the mounting bolt 48 coincides with the rotation axis A4 of the winding member 60. Thus, the winding member 60 is pivotally mounted relative to the base member 12 about the rotation axis A4. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the rotation axis A4 is contained in a predetermined reference plane RP perpendicular to the handlebar axis A1. The operated member 14 has a user input portion 14a disposed on a first side S1 of the predetermined reference plane RP. Similarly, an additional operated member 24 has a user input portion 24a disposed on the first side S1 of the predetermined reference plane RP. An inlet opening 28 of the base member 12 is provided on the first side S1 of the predetermined reference plane RP. An outlet hole 40 is provided on the second side S2 of the predetermined reference plane RP.

[0101] like Figure 14 As shown, the winding member 60 includes a cable attachment structure 60a configured to attach a cable to the winding member 60. Here, the cable attachment structure 60a includes a recessed portion configured to support an attachment cylinder C3 for the inner cable C2 and a cable receiving hole through which the inner cable C2 passes. Thus, the inner cable C2 is attached to the winding member 60 via the cable attachment structure 60a, allowing the inner cable C2 to be selectively pulled and released based on the rotation of the winding member 60. A biasing element 61 is disposed between the first support plate 44 and the winding member 60 to bias the winding member 60 in the release direction X2. The exit hole 40, the cable attachment structure 60a, and the inlet opening 28 are aligned in a straight line when the winding member 60 is in a predetermined phase. Here, this predetermined phase corresponds to the winding member 60 being in the fully released position.

[0102] The operated member 14 is operably connected by cable C, such that operation of the operated member 14 is associated with the winding member. Specifically, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a positioning ratchet 62, a positioning pawl 64, a pulling pawl 66, and a releasing pawl 68. The positioning ratchet 62 and the positioning pawl 64 define a positioning mechanism of the bicycle operating device 10, which is operated in response to operation of the operated member 14 and the additional operated member 24. Positioning mechanisms for bicycle operating devices are well known; therefore, for the sake of brevity, the positioning mechanism of the bicycle operating device 10 will only be described briefly.

[0103] The positioning ratchet 62 is immovably coupled to the take-up member 60 such that the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 move as a unit relative to the base member 12. Thus, the positioning ratchet 62 is pivotally mounted on the mounting bolt 48. Here, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 are separate parts that are coupled together to move as a unit. Alternatively, the positioning ratchet 62 can be integrally formed as part of the take-up member 60 to be a unitary member.

[0104] The positioning pawl 64 is pivotally disposed to the second support plate 46 and is biased toward engagement with the positioning ratchet 62. The positioning ratchet 62 includes a plurality of positioning ratchet teeth. The positioning ratchet teeth of the positioning ratchet 62 selectively engage or disengage the positioning pawl 64 to position the take-up member 60 relative to the base member 12. In the case of the pull operation, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 rotate about the pivot axis A2 in the pull direction X1 in response to the operating member 14 being operated. In the case of the release operation, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 rotate about the pivot axis A2 in the release direction X2 in response to the additional operating member 24 being operated.

[0105] The pull pawl 66 is disposed on the operating member 14 such that the pull pawl 66 moves with movement of the operating member 14. The positioning ratchet 62 moves from one of the predetermined positions to a different one of the predetermined positions in response to the operating member 14 moving from the rest position to the operating position. More specifically, during the pull operation, the pull pawl 66 selectively engages one of the positioning ratchet teeth of the positioning ratchet 62 to move the take-up member 60 in the pull direction X1. As the positioning ratchet 62 moves in the pull direction X1 during the pull operation, the take-up member 60 pivots in the pull direction X1 relative to the base member 12. The take-up member 60 can move through one or more of the predetermined positions depending on the amount of movement of the operating member 14 about the pivot axis A2.

[0106] Release pawl 68 is pivotally mounted to the second support plate 46. Release pawl 68 moves in response to operation of the attached operated member 24 in either the second direction D2 or the third direction D3 to perform a release operation. Here, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a first release member 70 pivotally mounted on a mounting bolt 48 and a second release member 72 pivotally mounted to the first release member 70. By pivoting release pawl 68 to the second release member 72, positioning pawl 64 disengages from positioning ratchet 62. More specifically, in response to the release operation of the attached operated member 24, the first release member 70 and the second release member 72 move from a rest position to an operating position to pivot release pawl 68 from a non-release position to a release position. This movement of release pawl 68 from the non-release position to the release position causes positioning pawl 64 to disengage from one of the positioning ratchet teeth of positioning ratchet 62. Therefore, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 can move in the release direction X2 in response to the additional operated member 24 being operated in the second direction D2 or the third direction D3.

[0107] Now for reference Figures 14 to 29 The portion of the cover member 16 and the first housing portion 30 including the access opening 28 will be discussed in further detail. As described above, the cover member 16 is in a first position in the sliding direction SD that closes the access opening 28 ( Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 ) and at least partially expose the second position entering the opening 28 ( Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The components are slidably disposed in the entry opening 28. Here, the sliding direction SD travels in a plane that is not parallel to the rotation axis A4 of the winding member 60. Moreover, the sliding direction SD travels in a plane that is not perpendicular to the rotation axis A4 of the winding member 60.

[0108] As described above, the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 defines an access opening 28. The first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 has an edge 80 defining the access opening 28. More specifically, the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 includes a first sliding edge portion 81 and a second sliding edge portion 82. The first sliding edge portion 81 and the second sliding edge portion 82 are parallel and located on opposite sides of the access opening 28. The first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 also includes a first end edge portion 83 and a second end edge portion 84. The first end edge portion 83 and the second end edge portion 84 are transverse to the sliding direction SD. Thus, the first sliding edge portion 81, the second sliding edge portion 82, the first end edge portion 83, and the second end edge portion 84 form the edge 80 defining the access opening 28. Therefore, the access opening 28 here has a quadrilateral shape.

[0109] As shown in Figure 22 and Figure 23 , the base member 12 further comprises a first recess 85 and a second recess 86. As shown in Figure 22 , the first recess 85 is configured to engage the cover member 16 to retain the cover member 16 in the first position. As shown in Figure 23 , the second recess 86 is configured to engage the cover member 16 to retain the cover member 16 in the second position.

[0110] As shown in Figure 25 , the edge 80 has a first point 80a and a second point 80b. The first point 80a and the second point 80b are located on opposite sides of the access opening 28 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis A4. In other words, the first point 80a is located on the first sliding edge portion 81, while the second point 80b is located on the second sliding edge portion 82. The first point 80a is spaced apart from the rotation axis A4 by a first distance LI. The second point 80b is spaced apart from the rotation axis A4 by a second distance L2 different from the first distance LI.

[0111] Referring back to Figures 16 to 18 , the base member 12 comprises a recess 88 provided on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12. As explained later, the recess 88 is configured to receive the cover member 16 when the cover member 16 is sliding between the first position (Fig. 1) and the second position (Fig. 2) closing the access opening 28. Figure 16 Figure 17

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover member 16 sandwiches the portion of the base member 12 defining the access opening 28. In particular, the cover member 16 has a first portion 90 and a second portion 91. The first portion 90 is provided on the outside of the base member 12. The second portion 91 is provided in the inner region 26 of the base member 12. The first portion 90 of the cover member 16 comprises an outer surface 90a having structures 90b facilitating the gripping of the cover member 16. Here, the structures 90b comprise a plurality of grooves extending in a direction transverse to the sliding direction SD of the cover member 16.

[0113] Here, the cover member 16 is slidably provided on the flat surface 30a of the base member 12. More specifically, the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 has a flat surface 30a on which the first portion 90 of the cover member 16 slides. To facilitate this sliding of the cover member 16, the cover member 16 comprises a first groove 92 receiving the first sliding edge portion 81 of the base member 12. In addition, the cover member 16 comprises a second groove 93 receiving the second sliding edge portion 82 of the base member 12. In this way, the access opening 28 comprises a straight edge portion slidably engaged with the cover member 16.

[0114] As shown in Figure 16 and​​Figure 17 As shown, the cover member 16 includes an extension portion 94 disposed in the inner region 26 of the base member 12. Thus, the extension portion 94 is part of the second portion 91 of the cover member 16. The recess 88 includes a first recess portion 88a and a second recess portion 88b. The first recess portion 88a and the second recess portion 88b are disposed on opposite sides of the access opening 28. Here, preferably, the first recess portion 88a and the second recess portion 88b are disposed on the inner surface 30a of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12. Here, the first recess portion 88a and the second recess portion 88b are disposed on the inner surface 30a of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 on opposite sides of the access opening 28. Figure 16 As shown, in the case where the cover member 16 is in the first position closing the access opening 28, the recess 88a on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 receives the extension portion 94. On the other hand, as shown, in the case where the cover member 16 is in the second position exposing the access opening 28, the recess 88b on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 receives the extension portion 94. Thus, the extension portion 94 extends beyond one of the first end edge portion 83 and the second end edge portion 84 in the sliding direction SD in the state where the cover member 16 is in the first position. Here, the extension portion 94 extends beyond the first end edge portion 83 in the sliding direction SD in the state where the cover member 16 is in the first position. Also, here, the extension portion 94 extends beyond the second end edge portion 84 in the sliding direction SD in the state where the cover member 16 is in the second position exposing the access opening 28. Thus, the cover member 16 overlaps a portion of the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is in the second position. Figure 17 As shown, in the case where the cover member 16 is in the first position closing the access opening 28, the recess 88a on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 receives the extension portion 94. On the other hand, as shown, in the case where the cover member 16 is in the second position exposing the access opening 28, the recess 88b on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 receives the extension portion 94. Thus, the extension portion 94 extends beyond one of the first end edge portion 83 and the second end edge portion 84 in the sliding direction SD in the state where the cover member 16 is in the first position. Here, the extension portion 94 extends beyond the first end edge portion 83 in the sliding direction SD in the state where the cover member 16 is in the first position. Also, here, the extension portion 94 extends beyond the second end edge portion 84 in the sliding direction SD in the state where the cover member 16 is in the second position exposing the access opening 28. Thus, the cover member 16 overlaps a portion of the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is in the second position.

[0115] As shown, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position. Also, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. Here, the same structure of the cover member 16 produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position and when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. In particular, the cover member 16 includes a lock piece 95 that engages the first recess 85 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position as shown to produce tactile feedback. The lock piece 95 engages the second recess 86 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position as shown to produce tactile feedback. Figure 22 As shown, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position. Also, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. Here, the same structure of the cover member 16 produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position and when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. In particular, the cover member 16 includes a lock piece 95 that engages the first recess 85 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position as shown to produce tactile feedback. The lock piece 95 engages the second recess 86 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position as shown to produce tactile feedback. Figure 23 As shown, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position. Also, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. Here, the same structure of the cover member 16 produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position and when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. In particular, the cover member 16 includes a lock piece 95 that engages the first recess 85 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position as shown to produce tactile feedback. The lock piece 95 engages the second recess 86 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position as shown to produce tactile feedback. Figure 22 As shown, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position. Also, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. Here, the same structure of the cover member 16 produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position and when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. In particular, the cover member 16 includes a lock piece 95 that engages the first recess 85 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position as shown to produce tactile feedback. The lock piece 95 engages the second recess 86 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position as shown to produce tactile feedback. Figure 23 As shown, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position. Also, the cover member 16 includes a structure that produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. Here, the same structure of the cover member 16 produces tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position and when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. In particular, the cover member 16 includes a lock piece 95 that engages the first recess 85 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position as shown to produce tactile feedback. The lock piece 95 engages the second recess 86 of the first housing portion 30 of the base member 12 when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position as shown to produce tactile feedback.

[0116] In understanding the scope of the present application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, mean the term "including" but not the term "consisting of." Thus, use of the term "comprising" herein is open-ended and does not exclude addition of other features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. It is also to be understood that the use of a singular term, such as, for example, "a", "an", "said", "the", and / or "it" in the claims and / or the specification, can include the equivalent plural of the term. It is also to be understood that use of the term "and / or" in the claims and / or the specification can include a direct disclosure of each item listed, as well as combinations using at least one of the listed items. Further, it is to be understood that the use of the term "at least one" in the claims and / or the specification does not (in the alternative to the term "comprising") require that more than one of an item is present.

[0117] As used herein, the directional terms "frame facing side", "non-frame facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "back", "up", "down", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "vertical", "horizontal", "perpendicular", and "transverse", and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright, riding position and equipped with the bicycle operating device. Thus, these directional terms as used to describe the bicycle operating device should be interpreted with respect to a bicycle in an upright, riding position and equipped with the bicycle operating device, located on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to denote "right" as referenced from the right side when viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and "left" as referenced from the left side when viewed from the rear of the bicycle.

[0118] As used herein, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more". For example, if the number of selections is two, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one single selection" or "both of the two selections". As another example, if the number of selections is equal to or more than three, the phrase "at least one" as used herein means "only one single selection" or "any combination of equal to or more than two selections". Furthermore, as used herein, the term "and / or" means "one or both".

[0119] Furthermore, it is to be understood that, unless otherwise specified, the terms "first", "second", and the like, used in the description and / or the claims, can be understood as describing a variety of components, any two of which should not be confused by the use of these terms. For example, although a first and a second component can be described as being used in a particular way, the first and second components can be used in another way, and vice versa. Thus, one of the first and second components can be described as being used in a particular way, and the other of the first and second components can be described as being used in another way, without departing from the teachings of the present application.

[0120] The term "attached to" or "attached" as used herein encompasses configurations wherein a component is directly secured to another component by affixing the component directly to the other component; configurations wherein the component is indirectly secured to another component by affixing the component to an intermediate member that is affixed to the other component; and configurations wherein a component is integral with another component, i.e., the component is essentially a portion of the other component. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "coupled," "connected," "engaged," "attached," "bonded," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, the terms "first," "second," and the like, as used herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to denote one element from another, and the individual use of such terms illustrate the magnitude structure intended.

[0121] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present application, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein, and that these changes and modifications can be made in the foregoing disclosure without departing from the scope of the application as defined by the appended claims. For example, the sizes, shapes, locations or orientations of various components can be changed as needed or desired, unless otherwise specified, as long as the changes do not substantially affect the intended function of the components. Unless otherwise specified, components shown directly connected or contacting one another can have intermediate structures disposed between them, as long as these changes do not substantially affect the intended functioning of the elements. The function of one element can be performed by two or more elements, and vice versa, unless otherwise specified. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. Not all advantages can be present in a particular embodiment. Each unique feature of the application is considered to be a separate and independent inventive feature, and thus can be claimed in separate embodiments. Therefore, the foregoing description is provided as an illustration of the principles of the application and is not intended to be limiting. The application is to be construed as not limited to the embodiments set forth herein as representative of the broadest scope for the application. Any and all modifications, variations or equivalent arrangements that fall within the broad scope of the application, including synonymous elements, can be permitted. It is intended that the scope of the application and definitions be given the broadest interpretation of the law.

Claims

1. A bicycle operating device, the bicycle operating device comprising: A base member configured to be mounted to a bicycle portion, the base member having an internal region and an access opening communicating with the internal region; The manipulated member is movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position; and A cover member, which is slidably connected to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position closing the access opening and a second position at least partially exposing the access opening. The cover member has a first portion disposed outside the base member and a second portion disposed within the inner region of the base member.

2. A bicycle operating device, the bicycle operating device comprising: A base member configured to be mounted to a bicycle portion, the base member having an internal region and an access opening communicating with the internal region; The manipulated member is movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position; and A cover member, which is slidably connected to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position that closes the access opening and a second position that at least partially exposes the access opening, the cover member being slidably disposed on a flat surface of the base member.

3. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein... The cover member sandwiches the portion of the base member that defines the access opening.

4. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein... The base member has a first housing portion having the access opening completely surrounded by the first housing portion, and the base member has a second housing portion attached to the first housing portion.

5. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A winding member is disposed in the inner region of the base member and is movable relative to the base member, wherein... When the cover member is in the second position, the cover member overlaps with a portion of the inner surface of the base member.

6. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein... At least one of the cover member and the base member is elastically deformable.

7. The bicycle operating device according to claim 6, wherein... The cover component is elastically deformable.

8. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein... The cover member includes an outer surface having a structure that facilitates gripping the cover member.

9. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein... The access opening includes a straight edge portion that slidably engages with the cover member.

10. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The entry opening has a quadrilateral shape.

11. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The cover member includes a first groove that receives a first sliding edge portion of the base member.

12. The bicycle operating device according to claim 11, wherein... The cover member includes a second groove that receives a second sliding edge portion of the base member, the first sliding edge portion and the second sliding edge portion being parallel and located on opposite sides of the access opening.

13. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein... The base component includes a first end edge portion and a second end edge portion, the first end edge portion and the second end edge portion being transverse to the sliding direction, and The cover member includes an extension portion disposed in the inner region of the base member, the extension portion extending in the sliding direction beyond one of the first end edge portion and the second end edge portion when the cover member is in the first position.

14. The bicycle operating device according to claim 13, wherein... The base member includes a recess disposed on the inner surface of the base member, the recess receiving the extension portion when the cover member is in the first position closing the access opening.

15. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A winding member is disposed in the inner region of the base member and is movable relative to the base member, wherein... The take-up member is configured to move relative to the base member to selectively move the cable in the pull direction and in a release direction opposite to the pull direction. The winding member includes a cable attachment structure configured to attach the cable to the winding member, and The operated component is operably connected to the cable such that the operation of the operated component is associated with the winding component.

16. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A handlebar mounting member, the handlebar mounting member defining a handlebar receiving opening having a handlebar axis, and A winding member is disposed in the inner region of the base member and is movable relative to the base member, wherein... The take-up member is rotatably mounted relative to the base member about a rotation axis contained in a predetermined reference plane perpendicular to the handlebar axis. The operated component has a user input section, which is disposed on a first side of the predetermined reference plane, and The entry opening of the base member is disposed on the first side of the predetermined reference plane.

17. The bicycle operating device according to claim 16, wherein... The base member has an edge defining the entry opening, the edge having a first point and a second point, the first point and the second point being located on opposite sides of the entry opening in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, the first point being spaced apart from the axis of rotation by a first distance, and the second point being spaced apart from the axis of rotation by a second distance different from the first distance.

18. The bicycle operating device according to claim 15, wherein... The base member defines an outlet hole through which the cable exits, and The outlet hole, the cable attachment structure, and the inlet opening are aligned in a straight line when the winding member is in a predetermined phase.

19. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The cover member includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to the first position.

20. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The cover member includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to the second position.

21. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A winding member is disposed in the inner region of the base member and is movable relative to the base member, wherein... The sliding direction travels in a plane that is not parallel to the rotation axis of the winding member.

22. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A winding member is disposed in the inner region of the base member and is movable relative to the base member, wherein... The sliding direction travels in a plane that is not perpendicular to the rotation axis of the winding member.

23. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cover component is made of a plastic material.

24. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The cover component is made of metal.

25. The bicycle operating device according to claim 16, wherein... The take-up member is configured to move relative to the base member to selectively move the cable in the pull direction and in a release direction opposite to the pull direction. The winding member includes a cable attachment structure configured to attach the cable to the winding member. The base member defines an exit hole through which the cable exits, and the exit hole, the cable attachment structure, and the entry opening are aligned in a straight line when the take-up member is in a predetermined phase.

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