Cover assembly for front sprocket and front sprocket assembly for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

Provided is a cover assembly that can be attached to a front sprocket regardless of whether a crank arm is attached to a crank shaft after or before. A cover assembly (39) is for a front sprocket (37) of a bicycle (1). The cover assembly (39) includes a first cover member (45), a second cover member (47), and a first connecting structure (49). The first cover member (45) and the second cover member (47) are attached to the front sprocket (37). The first connecting structure (49) connects the first cover member (45) and the second cover member (47) to each other. The first cover member (45) and the second cover member (47) are disposed on the side of an axial outer side surface (37a) of the front sprocket (37). A tool engagement portion (54) of the first connecting structure (49) is disposed on the side of an axial inner side surface (37b) of the front sprocket (37) in an assembled state.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a cover assembly for a front sprocket of a human-powered vehicle and a front sprocket assembly for a human-powered vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] In Patent Literature 1, a human-powered vehicle, such as a bicycle having a running-assistance motor, is disclosed. This type of bicycle has a crank shaft, a pair of crank arms, a front sprocket, and a cover member. The crank shaft is installed to a bicycle frame in a manner of rotating with respect to the bicycle frame. The pair of crank arms is installed to both end portions of the crank shaft. The front sprocket is directly or indirectly connected to the crank shaft. The cover member is installed to the front sprocket between the right crank arm and the front sprocket.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent No. 5575968 SUMMARY

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] In the conventional bicycle, first, the crank shaft is installed to the bicycle frame. Next, the front sprocket is disposed to the crank shaft in a radial direction. Then, the right crank arm is installed to the crank shaft. Finally, the cover member is installed to the front sprocket.

[0008] In the conventional bicycle, in order to install the cover member to the front sprocket, a tool engagement portion provided to the cover member and a fixing hole formed to the right crank arm in order to fix the right crank arm to the crank shaft are disposed to an outer side of the front sprocket in an axial direction with respect to a rotational center axis of the front sprocket.

[0009] In the conventional cover member, the tool engagement portion protrudes from an axial outer side of the front sprocket and covers the fixing hole for fixing the right crank arm to the crank shaft in whole or in part. Therefore, in the conventional cover member, there is a problem that the cover member cannot be installed to the front sprocket before the right crank arm is fixed to the crank shaft.

[0010] An object of the present application is to provide a cover assembly which can be installed to a front sprocket regardless of whether a crank arm is installed to a crank shaft after or before the crank arm is installed to the crank shaft.

[0011] Means for solving the problem

[0012] Regarding the first aspect of the application, a cover assembly is for a front sprocket of a human-powered vehicle. The cover assembly includes a first cover member, a second cover member, and a first coupling structure. The first cover member is configured to be attached to the front sprocket. The second cover member is configured to be attached to the front sprocket. The first coupling structure is configured to couple the first cover member and the second cover member to each other.

[0013] The front sprocket has an axially outer side and an axially inner side. The axially inner side is provided on the opposite side of the axially outer side in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis of the front sprocket. In a state in which the front sprocket is attached to the human-powered vehicle, the axially inner side is configured to be provided opposite to an axially central surface of the human-powered vehicle in the axial direction.

[0014] In an assembled state in which the cover assembly is assembled with the front sprocket as one unit, the first cover member and the second cover member are configured to be disposed on the axially outer side of the front sprocket. The first coupling structure includes a tool engagement portion. The tool engagement portion is provided on the axially inner side of the front sprocket in the above-described assembled state.

[0015] According to the cover assembly according to the first aspect, since the tool engagement portion of the first coupling structure is provided on the axially inner side of the front sprocket in the above-described assembled state, the first cover member and the second cover member are attached to the front sprocket in a manner not to cover the fixing hole of the crank arm. Thus, the cover assembly can be attached to the front sprocket regardless of whether the crank arm is attached to the crank shaft after or before.

[0016] Regarding the second aspect of the application, in the cover assembly according to the first aspect, the first coupling structure is configured to include a first coupling portion, a second coupling portion, and a first fastening member. The first coupling portion is provided on the first cover member. The second coupling portion is provided on the second cover member. The first fastening member is configured to couple the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion to each other.

[0017] According to the cover assembly according to the second aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be freely attached to and detached from the front sprocket by the first fastening member.

[0018] Regarding the third aspect of the application, the cover assembly according to the first aspect is configured as follows. The first fastening member has a first abutting portion and a first shaft portion formed with a first thread. The first coupling portion has a first through-hole. The second coupling portion has a first threaded hole. The first thread of the first shaft portion is configured to be screwed into the first threaded hole after passing through the first through-hole.

[0019] According to the cover assembly of the third aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be attached to the front sprocket by screwing the first thread of the first fastening member into the first threaded hole. The first cover member and the second cover member can be detached from the front sprocket by unscrewing the first thread of the first fastening member from the first threaded hole.

[0020] According to the cover assembly of the fourth aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by abutting the first abutting portion of the first fastening member against the first linking portion.

[0021] According to the cover assembly of the fourth aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by abutting the first abutting portion of the first fastening member against the first linking portion.

[0022] According to the cover assembly of the fifth aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0023] According to the cover assembly of the fifth aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0024] According to the cover assembly of the sixth aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by screwing the second thread of the second fastening member into the second threaded hole. The first cover member and the second cover member can be detached from the front sprocket by unscrewing the second thread of the second fastening member from the second threaded hole.

[0025] According to the cover assembly of the sixth aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by screwing the second thread of the second fastening member into the second threaded hole. The first cover member and the second cover member can be detached from the front sprocket by unscrewing the second thread of the second fastening member from the second threaded hole.

[0026] According to the cover assembly of the seventh aspect, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket by abutting the second abutting portion of the second fastening member against one of the third linking portion and the fourth linking portion. The one of the third linking portion and the fourth linking portion has the second through hole.

[0027] According to the cover assembly related to the seventh aspect, by making the second abutting portion of the second fastening member abut one of the third link portion and the fourth link portion, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably installed to the front sprocket.

[0028] Regarding the eighth aspect of the present application, the cover assembly related to the fifth aspect is configured as follows. The third link portion is provided to the second cover member. The fourth link portion is provided to the first cover member.

[0029] According to the cover assembly related to the eighth aspect, the second cover member can be configured by the same structure as the first cover member. Thus, the manufacturing efficiency of the first cover member and the second cover member can be improved.

[0030] Regarding the ninth aspect of the present application, the cover assembly related to the eighth aspect is configured as follows. The second fastening member has a second abutting portion and a second shaft portion in which a second thread is formed. The third link portion has a second through-hole. The fourth link portion has a second threaded hole. The second thread of the second shaft portion is configured to be screwed into the second threaded hole after passing through the second through-hole.

[0031] According to the cover assembly related to the ninth aspect, the second cover member can be configured by the same structure as the first cover member. Thus, the manufacturing efficiency of the first cover member and the second cover member can be improved.

[0032] Regarding the tenth aspect of the present application, the cover assembly related to the ninth aspect is configured as follows. In a state where the second thread of the second shaft portion is screwed into the second threaded hole, the second abutting portion of the second fastening member is configured to abut the third link portion.

[0033] According to the cover assembly related to the tenth aspect, the second cover member can be configured by the same structure as the first cover member. Thus, the manufacturing efficiency of the first cover member and the second cover member can be improved.

[0034] Regarding the eleventh aspect of the present application, the cover assembly related to any one of the fifth aspect to the tenth aspect is configured as follows. When the cover assembly is observed in the axial direction, the first link structure is disposed on the opposite side of the second link structure with respect to the rotational center axis.

[0035] According to the cover assembly related to the eleventh aspect, by disposing the first link structure and the second link structure as described above, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably installed to the front sprocket.

[0036] Regarding the twelfth aspect of the present application, the cover assembly related to any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect further has an engagement structure. The engagement structure is configured to engage the front sprocket. The engagement structure is configured to suppress movement of the cover assembly with respect to the front sprocket.

[0037] According to the cover assembly of the twelfth aspect, the movement of the cover assembly with respect to the front sprocket is inhibited by the engagement structure. Thus, the cover assembly can be reliably mounted to the front sprocket.

[0038] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the cover assembly of the twelfth aspect, the engagement structure is configured to include at least one first engagement member and at least one second engagement member. The at least one first engagement member is configured to be provided to the first cover member and inhibit the movement of the first cover member with respect to the front sprocket. The at least one second engagement member is configured to be provided to the second cover member and inhibit the movement of the second cover member with respect to the front sprocket.

[0039] According to the cover assembly of the thirteenth aspect, the movement of the first cover member with respect to the front sprocket and the movement of the second cover member with respect to the front sprocket can be inhibited by the at least one first engagement member and the at least one second engagement member. Thus, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably mounted to the front sprocket.

[0040] According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the cover assembly of the thirteenth aspect is configured as follows. The at least one first engagement member includes a plurality of first engagement members. The at least one second engagement member includes a plurality of second engagement members.

[0041] According to the cover assembly of the fourteenth aspect, the movement of the first cover member with respect to the front sprocket and the movement of the second cover member with respect to the front sprocket can be inhibited by the plurality of first engagement members and the plurality of second engagement members. Thus, the first cover member and the second cover member can be more reliably mounted to the front sprocket.

[0042] According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the cover assembly is for a front sprocket of a human-powered vehicle. The cover assembly has a first cover member, a second cover member, and a first linking structure. The first cover member is configured to be mounted to the front sprocket. The second cover member is configured to be mounted to the front sprocket. The first linking structure is configured to link the first cover member and the second cover member to each other.

[0043] The first cover member and the second cover member are assembled to each other in an assembly direction. The first linking structure includes a first linking portion, a second linking portion, and a first fastening member. The first linking portion is provided to the first cover member. The second linking portion is provided to the second cover member. The first fastening member is configured to link the first linking portion and the second linking portion to each other.

[0044] In an assembled state in which the cover assembly and the front sprocket are assembled as one unit, the first fastening member extends in a first fastening direction that intersects the assembly direction.

[0045] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0046] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0047] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0048] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0049] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0050] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0051] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0052] According to the cover assembly of the seventeenth aspect, since the second fastening direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are fastened intersects the assembly direction in which the first cover member and the second cover member are assembled, the tool can easily approach the second fastening member of the second linking structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket. Further, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably attached to the front sprocket via the first fastening member and the second fastening member.

[0053] According to the cover assembly according to the nineteenth aspect, the second cover member can be configured by the same structure as the first cover member. Thus, the manufacturing efficiency of the first cover member and the second cover member can be improved.

[0054] According to the twentieth aspect of the present application, the cover assembly according to any one of the seventeenth to nineteenth aspects is configured as follows. When the cover assembly is viewed in the axial direction of the rotational center axis of the front sprocket, the first coupling structure is disposed on the opposite side of the second coupling structure with respect to the rotational center axis.

[0055] According to the cover assembly according to the twentieth aspect, by disposing the first coupling structure and the second coupling structure as described above, the first cover member and the second cover member can be reliably mounted to the front sprocket.

[0056] According to the twenty-first aspect of the present application, the front sprocket assembly is for a human-powered vehicle. The front sprocket assembly has a front sprocket and the cover assembly according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects.

[0057] According to the front sprocket assembly according to the twenty-first aspect, since the cover assembly has the cover assembly described above, the cover assembly can be mounted to the front sprocket regardless of whether the crank arm is mounted to the crankshaft after or before. In addition, a tool can be easily brought close to the first coupling structure and / or the second coupling structure without the tool being interfered with by the front sprocket.

[0058] Effects of the invention

[0059] According to the present application, in the cover assembly for a human-powered vehicle and the front sprocket assembly having the cover assembly, the cover assembly can be mounted to the front sprocket regardless of whether the crank arm is mounted to the crankshaft after or before. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0060] Figure 1 is a side view of a bicycle according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0061] Figure 2 is a schematic view when the bicycle is viewed from above;

[0062] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a crank assembly, a sprocket assembly, a cover assembly, and an assist mechanism;

[0063] Figure 4 is a front view of the crank assembly, the sprocket assembly, the cover assembly, and the assist mechanism;

[0064] Figure 5 is a front view of the sprocket assembly and the cover assembly;

[0065] Figure 6 is a rear view of the sprocket assembly and the cover assembly;

[0066] Figure 7 is a front view of the crank assembly, the sprocket assembly, and the cover assembly;

[0067] Figure 8 is a front view of the cover assembly;

[0068] Figure 9 is a rear view of the cover assembly;

[0069] Figure 10A is a sectional view of the first coupling structure;

[0070] Figure 10B is a sectional view of the second coupling structure;

[0071] Figure 11A is a front view for explaining the assembled state of the cover assembly;

[0072] Figure 11B is a front view for explaining the assembled state of the cover assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] As shown in Figure 1 , a bicycle 1 according to one embodiment of the present application includes a frame 3, a handlebar 5, a front wheel 7, a rear wheel 9, a drive section 11, and a chain 13. The bicycle 1 is an example of a human-powered vehicle. As shown in Figure 2 , the bicycle 1 has an axial center plane BP.

[0074] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the handlebar 5 is attached to a front fork 15. The front fork 15 is attached to a front portion of the frame 3 in a manner to be rotatable relative to the frame 3. The front wheel 7 is attached to the front fork 15 in a manner to be rotatable relative to the front fork 15. The rear wheel 9 is attached to a rear portion of the frame 3 in a manner to be rotatable relative to the frame 3.

[0075] The drive section 11 has a rear sprocket assembly 17, an assist mechanism 19, a crank assembly 21, and a front sprocket assembly 23. The rear sprocket assembly 17 is attached to the rear portion of the frame 3 in a manner to be rotatable relative to the frame 3. The rear sprocket assembly 17 includes at least one rear sprocket 25. The at least one rear sprocket 25 is engaged with the chain 13.

[0076] As shown in Figure 3 , the assist mechanism 19 has a housing 27, a motor not shown, and a drive shaft 31 driven by the motor. The housing 27 is attached to a lower portion of the frame 3.

[0077] A motor is disposed inside the housing 27. The motor generates assist power in accordance with a pedaling force of the pedals. In detail, the motor generates assist power in accordance with a rotational torque of a crank shaft 33 described later. The assist power of the motor is transmitted to a drive shaft 31. The drive shaft 31 is installed to the housing 27 of the assist mechanism 19 in a manner of rotating with respect to the housing 27 of the assist mechanism 19. The drive shaft 31 is formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0078] As shown in Figure 3 , the crank assembly 21 has the crank shaft 33 and a pair of crank arms 34. The crank shaft 33 is installed to the housing 27 of the assist mechanism 19 in a manner of rotating with respect to the housing 27 of the assist mechanism 19. For example, the crank shaft 33 is inserted through an inner peripheral portion of the drive shaft 31.

[0079] The crank shaft 33 is directly or indirectly connected to the drive shaft 31. The rotational torque of the crank shaft 33 is transmitted to the drive shaft 31. A rotational center axis X1 of the crank shaft 33 is concentric with a rotational center axis X2 of a front sprocket 37 described later.

[0080] A pair of pedals are respectively installed to a pair of the crank arms 34. The pair of the crank arms 34 includes a first crank arm 35 and a second crank arm 36. The first crank arm 35 and the second crank arm 36 are respectively installed to both end portions of the crank shaft 33. The first crank arm 35 and the second crank arm 36 rotate integrally with the crank shaft 33.

[0081] For example, the first crank arm 35 has a pair of fixing holes 35a and 35b. In a state where the first crank arm 35 is disposed to one end portion of the crank shaft 33, a pair of bolts 35c are respectively screwed into the pair of the fixing holes 35a and 35b. Thereby, the first crank arm 35 is fixed to the one end portion of the crank shaft 33. The second crank arm 36 is fixed to the other end portion of the crank shaft 33 in the same manner as the first crank arm 35.

[0082] The front sprocket assembly 23 is used for the bicycle 1. As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the front sprocket assembly 23 is installed to the frame 3 via the assist mechanism 19 in a manner of rotating with respect to the frame 3. For example, as shown in Figure 3 , the front sprocket assembly 23 is installed to the drive shaft 31 of the assist mechanism 19 in a manner of relatively rotating with respect to the housing 27 of the assist mechanism 19.

[0083] In a case where the assist mechanism 19 is not used, the front sprocket assembly 23 is installed to the crank assembly 21. In this case, for example, the front sprocket assembly 23 is installed to the first crank arm 35 or the crank shaft 33.

[0084] As shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the front sprocket assembly 23 has the front sprocket 37 and a cover assembly 39. As shown inFigure 3 As shown in FIG. 1, the front sprocket 37 is directly or indirectly connected to the crank shaft 33. For example, the front sprocket 37 is connected to the crank shaft 33 so as to transmit a driving force via the drive shaft 31.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 1, the front sprocket 37 is directly or indirectly connected to the crank shaft 33. For example, the front sprocket 37 is connected to the crank shaft 33 so as to transmit a driving force via the drive shaft 31. Figure 3 Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1, the front sprocket 37 is disposed between the first crank arm 35 and the housing 27 of the auxiliary mechanism 19. The front sprocket 37 is engaged with the chain 13. The front sprocket 37 has a rotational center axis X2.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 1, the front sprocket 37 has a sprocket body 41 and a plurality of sprocket teeth 43. As shown in FIG. 1, the sprocket body 41 is formed in a ring shape. Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1, the sprocket body 41 has a body portion 41a, a mounting portion 41b, and a plurality of mounting arms 41c. The body portion 41a is formed in a ring shape.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 1, the mounting portion 41b is mounted to the drive shaft 31. For example, the mounting portion 41b is formed in a cylindrical shape. An inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion 41b is engaged with an outer peripheral surface of the drive shaft 31 so as to transmit a torque via a spline. Thus, the front sprocket 37 is integrally rotated with the drive shaft 31. Figure 3

[0088] As shown in FIG. 1, the plurality of mounting arms 41c respectively extend in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. The plurality of mounting arms 41c link the body portion 41a and the mounting portion 41b in the radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. In the present embodiment, the plurality of mounting arms 41c include four mounting arms 41c1, 41c2, 41c3, and 41c4. Figure 5 Figure 6

[0089] As shown in FIG. 1, the front sprocket 37 has an axially outer side surface 37a and an axially inner side surface 37b. As shown in FIG. 1, the axially outer side surface 37a is provided on the first crank arm 35 side in a state in which the crank assembly 21 is assembled. Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1, the axially inner side surface 37b is provided on the opposite side of the axially outer side surface 37a in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. In a state in which the front sprocket 37 is mounted to the bicycle 1, the axially inner side surface 37b is configured to oppose the axial center surface BP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. Figure 7

[0090] As shown in FIG. 1, the axially inner side surface 37b is provided on the opposite side of the axially outer side surface 37a in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. In a state in which the front sprocket 37 is mounted to the bicycle 1, the axially inner side surface 37b is configured to oppose the axial center surface BP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 1, the axially inner side surface 37b is provided on the opposite side of the axially outer side surface 37a in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. In a state in which the front sprocket 37 is mounted to the bicycle 1, the axially inner side surface 37b is configured to oppose the axial center surface BP of the bicycle 1 in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 ​​​​​​​​​​​As shown, a plurality of sprocket teeth 43 extend radially outward from the outer periphery of the sprocket body 41 about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. For example, a plurality of sprocket teeth 43 extend radially outward from the outer periphery of the body portion 41a about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0092] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, chain 13 is mounted on crank assembly 21 and rear sprocket assembly 17. For example, chain 13 is mounted on front sprocket 37 and at least one rear sprocket 25. The driving force input to crank assembly 21 is transmitted to rear sprocket assembly 17 via chain 13. By this driving force, rear wheel 9 rotates. It can also be interpreted that chain 13 is included in drive unit 11.

[0093] The cover assembly 39 is used for the front sprocket 37 of bicycle 1. For example... Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the cover assembly 39 is mounted on the front sprocket 37. Figure 6 As shown, the cover assembly 39 includes a first cover component 45, a second cover component 47, and a first connecting structure 49. The cover assembly 39 also includes a second connecting structure 51. The cover assembly 39 also includes an engaging structure 53.

[0094] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 7 As shown, in the assembled state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as a unit, the first cover component 45 and the second cover component 47 are configured to be disposed on the axial outer side 37a side of the front sprocket 37.

[0095] like Figure 6 As shown, the first cover component 45 is configured to be mounted on the front sprocket 37. For example, the first cover component 45 can be detachably mounted on the front sprocket 37.

[0096] like Figure 7 As shown, in the assembled state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as a unit, the axial outer side 37a of the front sprocket 37 is disposed between the axial outer side 45a of the first cover component 45 and the axial inner side 37b of the front sprocket 37.

[0097] The axial outer surface 45a of the first cover component 45 is disposed axially about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37 between the fixing hole 35a of the first crank arm 35 and the axial center surface FP of the front sprocket 37.

[0098] In detail, the axial outer surface 45a of the first cover component 45 is disposed axially about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37 between the fixing hole 35a of the first crank arm 35 and the axial outer surface 37a of the front sprocket 37.

[0099] As shown in Figure 8 Fig. 1, the first cover member 45 has a pair of first opposite faces 46a, 46b. In the present embodiment, the pair of first opposite faces 46a, 46b is provided on the side of the axial outer face 45a of the first cover member 45.

[0100] In the state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled, the pair of first opposite faces 46a, 46b is arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0101] For example, in the state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled, the pair of first opposite faces 46a, 46b is arranged at intervals of 180 degrees in the radial direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0102] As shown in Figure 6 Fig. 1, the second cover member 47 is configured to be mounted to the front sprocket 37. For example, the second cover member 47 is detachably mounted to the front sprocket 37.

[0103] As shown in Figure 7 Fig. 1, in the assembled state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as one unit, the axial outer face 37a of the front sprocket 37 is arranged between the axial outer face 47a of the second cover member 47 and the axial inner face 37b of the front sprocket 37.

[0104] The axial outer face 47a of the second cover member 47 is arranged between the fixing hole 35a of the first crank arm 35 and the axial center face FP of the front sprocket 37 in the axial direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0105] In detail, the axial outer face 47a of the second cover member 47 is arranged between the fixing hole 35a of the first crank arm 35 and the axial outer face 37a of the front sprocket 37 in the axial direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0106] As shown in Figure 8 Fig. 1, the second cover member 47 has a pair of second opposite faces 48a, 48b. In the present embodiment, the pair of second opposite faces 48a, 48b is provided on the side of the axial outer face 47a of the second cover member 47.

[0107] In the state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled, the pair of second opposite faces 48a, 48b is arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0108] For example, in a state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled, the pair of second opposing surfaces 48a, 48b are arranged at an interval of 180° in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. In a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the pair of second opposing surfaces 48a, 48b are arranged opposite to the pair of first opposing surfaces 46a, 46b, respectively.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 1, the first linking structure 49 links the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47 to each other. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1, the first linking structure 49 includes a first tool engagement portion 54. In an assembled state where the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as one unit, the first tool engagement portion 54 is provided on the axial inner side surface 37b side of the front sprocket 37. Figure 9 Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1, the first linking structure 49 includes a first linking portion 55, a second linking portion 57, and a first fastening member 59. The first linking portion 55 is provided to the first cover member 45. For example, the first linking portion 55 is provided to the axial inner side surface 45b of the first cover member 45. The first linking portion 55 is formed integrally with the first cover member 45. The first linking portion 55 has a first through-hole 55a.

[0110] The second linking portion 57 is provided to the second cover member 47. For example, the second linking portion 57 is provided to the axial inner side surface 47b of the second cover member 47. The second linking portion 57 is formed integrally with the second cover member 47. The second linking portion 57 has a first threaded hole 57a. Figure 10A As shown in FIG. 1, the first fastening member 59 links the first linking portion 55 and the second linking portion 57 to each other. The first fastening member 59 has a first abutting portion 59a and a first shaft portion 59b. The first shaft portion 59b is formed with a first thread 59c. The first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is configured to be screwed with the first threaded hole 57a of the second linking portion 57 after passing through the first through-hole 55a of the first linking portion 55. For example, the first thread 59c is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the first shaft portion 59b. In detail, the first fastening member 59 is a screw member.

[0111] In a state where the first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a, the first abutting portion 59a of the first fastening member 59 is configured to abut against the first linking portion 55. In the state where the first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a, the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled by abutting the first abutting portion 59a of the first fastening member 59 against the first linking portion 55.

[0112] Figure 10A In a state where the first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a, the first abutting portion 59a of the first fastening member 59 is configured to abut against the first linking portion 55. In the state where the first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a, the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled by abutting the first abutting portion 59a of the first fastening member 59 against the first linking portion 55.

[0113] In a state where the first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a, the first abutting portion 59a of the first fastening member 59 is configured to abut against the first linking portion 55. In the state where the first thread 59c of the first shaft portion 59b is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a, the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled by abutting the first abutting portion 59a of the first fastening member 59 against the first linking portion 55. ​​

[0114] As Figure 6 and Figure 9 shown, the second coupling structure 51 is configured to couple the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47 to each other. As Figure 7 shown, the second coupling structure 51 includes a second tool engaging portion 60. The second tool engaging portion 60 is provided on the axial inner side surface 37b side of the front sprocket 37 in an assembled state in which the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as one unit.

[0115] As Figure 10B shown, the second coupling structure 51 includes a third coupling portion 61, a fourth coupling portion 63, and a second fastening member 65. The third coupling portion 61 is provided in one of the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47. The fourth coupling portion 63 is provided in the other of the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47.

[0116] The third coupling portion 61 has one of a second through-hole 67a and a second threaded hole 67b. The fourth coupling portion 63 has the other of the second through-hole 67a and the second threaded hole 67b. That is, one of the third coupling portion 61 and the fourth coupling portion 63 has the second through-hole 67a. The other of the third coupling portion 61 and the fourth coupling portion 63 has the second threaded hole 67b.

[0117] As Figure 10B shown, the second fastening member 65 is configured to couple the third coupling portion 61 and the fourth coupling portion 63 to each other. The second fastening member 65 has a second abutting portion 65a and a second shaft portion 65b. The second shaft portion 65b is formed with a second thread 65c. The second thread 65c of the second shaft portion 65b is configured to be screwed into the second threaded hole 67b after passing through the second through-hole 67a. For example, the second thread 65c is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the second shaft portion 65b. In detail, the second fastening member 65 is a screw member.

[0118] In a state in which the second thread 65c of the second shaft portion 65b is screwed into the second threaded hole 67b, the second abutting portion 65a of the second fastening member 65 is configured to abut against one of the third coupling portion 61 and the fourth coupling portion 63.

[0119] In the present embodiment, Figure 10B shown, the third coupling portion 61 is provided in the second cover member 47. For example, the third coupling portion 61 is provided on the axial inner side surface 47b of the second cover member 47. The third coupling portion 61 is formed integrally with the second cover member 47. The third coupling portion 61 has the second through-hole 67a.

[0120] The fourth coupling portion 63 is provided to the first cover member 45. For example, the fourth coupling portion 63 is provided to the axial inner side surface 45b of the first cover member 45. The fourth coupling portion 63 is formed integrally with the first cover member 45. The fourth coupling portion 63 has a second threaded hole 67b.

[0121] The second thread 65c of the second shaft portion 65b is configured to be screwed with the second threaded hole 67b of the fourth coupling portion 63 after passing through the second through-hole 67a. In a state where the second thread 65c of the second shaft portion 65b is screwed with the second threaded hole 67b of the fourth coupling portion 63, the second abutting portion 65a of the second fastening member 65 is configured to abut against the third coupling portion 61.

[0122] In a state where the second thread 65c of the second shaft portion 65b is screwed with the second threaded hole 67b of the fourth coupling portion 63, the second abutting portion 65a of the second fastening member 65 is caused to abut against the third coupling portion 61, whereby the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled.

[0123] The first coupling structure 49 and the second coupling structure 51 are configured as follows. As shown in Figure 9 When the cover assembly 39 is viewed in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the first coupling structure 49 is disposed on the opposite side of the second coupling structure 51 with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. For example, the first coupling structure 49 and the second coupling structure 51 are disposed at intervals of 180 degrees in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0124] As shown in Figure 6 The engagement structure 53 is configured to inhibit movement of the cover assembly 39 with respect to the front sprocket 37. For example, the engagement structure 53 is configured to inhibit movement of the cover assembly 39 with respect to the sprocket body 41. The engagement structure 53 is configured to engage the front sprocket 37. For example, the engagement structure 53 is configured to engage the plurality of mounting arms 41c1, 41c2, 41c3, 41c4 of the sprocket body 41.

[0125] As shown in Figure 6 and Figure 9 The engagement structure 53 is provided to the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47. The engagement structure 53 includes at least one first engagement member 69 and at least one second engagement member 71.

[0126] The at least one first engagement member 69 is provided to the first cover member 45. The at least one first engagement member 69 is configured to inhibit movement of the first cover member 45 with respect to the front sprocket 37.

[0127] For example, as Figure 6As shown, at least one first engaging member 69 is configured to inhibit movement of the first cover member 45 relative to the sprocket body 41. More specifically, at least one first engaging member 69 is configured to inhibit movement of the first cover member 45 relative to a plurality of mounting arms 41c of the sprocket body 41.

[0128] At least one first engaging member 69 is configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of mounting arms 41c. The at least one first engaging member 69 includes a plurality of first engaging members 69a, 69b. In this embodiment, the at least one first engaging member 69 includes two first engaging members 69a, 69b.

[0129] like Figure 9 As shown, the first engaging member 69a is integrally formed with the first cover member 45. The first engaging member 69a can be separately disposed on the first cover member 45. The first engaging member 69a is formed in a hook shape. The front end of the first engaging member 69a extends in the first rotation direction R1.

[0130] like Figure 6 As shown, the first engaging member 69a engages with the mounting arm 41c1. For example, in the axial direction about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the first engaging member 69a engages with the mounting arm 41c1 in such a way that the mounting arm 41c1 is positioned between the first cover member 45 and the first engaging member 69a in the axial direction.

[0131] like Figure 9 As shown, the first engaging member 69b is integrally formed with the first cover member 45. The first engaging member 69b can be separately disposed on the first cover member 45. The first engaging member 69b is spaced apart from the first engaging member 69a in the circumferential direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. The first engaging member 69b is hook-shaped. The front end of the first engaging member 69b extends in a second rotational direction R2, opposite to the first rotational direction R1.

[0132] like Figure 6 As shown, the first engaging member 69b engages with the mounting arm 41c2. For example, in the axial direction about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the first engaging member 69b engages with the mounting arm 41c2 in such a way that the mounting arm 41c2 is positioned between the first cover member 45 and the first engaging member 69b in the axial direction.

[0133] With the first engaging parts 69a and 69b engaged with the mounting arms 41c1 and 41c2, the first engaging parts 69a and 69b are positioned between the mounting arms 41c1 and 41c2 in the circumferential direction about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0134] Figure 6 as well asFigure 9 As shown, at least one second engaging member 71 is provided on the second cover member 47. Figure 6 As shown, at least one second engaging member 71 is configured to suppress the movement of the second cover member 47 relative to the front sprocket 37.

[0135] For example, at least one second engaging member 71 is configured to inhibit movement of the second cover member 47 relative to the sprocket body 41. More specifically, at least one second engaging member 71 is configured to inhibit movement of the second cover member 47 relative to a plurality of mounting arms 41c of the sprocket body 41.

[0136] At least one second engaging member 71 is configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of mounting arms 41c. The at least one second engaging member 71 includes a plurality of second engaging members 71a, 71b. In this embodiment, the at least one second engaging member 71 includes two second engaging members 71a, 71b.

[0137] like Figure 9 As shown, the second engaging member 71a is integrally formed with the second cover member 47. The second engaging member 71a can be separately disposed on the second cover member 47. The second engaging member 71a is formed in a hook shape. The front end of the second engaging member 71a extends in the first rotational direction R1.

[0138] like Figure 6 As shown, the second engaging member 71a engages with the mounting arm 41c3. For example, in the axial direction about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the second engaging member 71a engages with the mounting arm 41c3 in such a way that the mounting arm 41c3 is positioned between the second cover member 47 and the second engaging member 71a in the axial direction.

[0139] like Figure 9 As shown, the second engaging member 71b is integrally formed with the second cover member 47. The second engaging member 71b can be separately disposed on the second cover member 47. The second engaging member 71b is spaced apart from the second engaging member 71a in the circumferential direction about the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. The second engaging member 71b is hook-shaped. The front end of the second engaging member 71b extends in the second rotational direction R2.

[0140] like Figure 6 As shown, the second engaging member 71b engages with the mounting arm 41c4. For example, in the axial direction about the rotation center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the second engaging member 71b engages with the mounting arm 41c4 in such a way that the mounting arm 41c4 is positioned between the second cover member 47 and the second engaging member 71b in the axial direction.

[0141] like Figure 9As shown, in a state where the second engaging members 71a, 71b engage with the mounting arms 41c3, 41c4, the second engaging members 71a, 71b are disposed between the mounting arm 41c3 and the mounting arm 41c4 in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0142] The cover assembly 39 having the above-described structure is assembled in the following manner. As shown in Figure 11A In the present embodiment, the second cover member 47 is disposed on the front sprocket 37. Thereafter, as shown in Figure 11B The first cover member 45 is disposed on the front sprocket 37. The second cover member 47 can be disposed on the front sprocket 37 after the first cover member 45 is disposed on the front sprocket 37.

[0143] First, as shown in Figure 11A The second cover member 47 is disposed on the mounting arms 41c3, 41c4 of the front sprocket 37 by engaging the second engaging members 71a, 71b of the second cover member 47 with the mounting arms 41c3, 41c4 of the front sprocket 37, respectively.

[0144] Next, the first cover member 45 is disposed on the mounting arms 41c1, 41c2 of the front sprocket 37 by bringing the first cover member 45 toward the assembly direction AD1 to the second cover member 47, so that the first engaging members 69a, 69b of the first cover member 45 engage with the mounting arms 41c1, 41c2 of the front sprocket 37, respectively. Thus, as shown in Figure 11B The first cover member 45 is positioned on the mounting arms 41c1, 41c2 of the front sprocket 37.

[0145] In this state, the first connecting portion 55 of the first cover member 45 abuts against the second connecting portion 57 of the second cover member 47, and the fourth connecting portion 63 of the first cover member 45 abuts against the third connecting portion 61 of the second cover member 47.

[0146] Next, as shown in Figure 10A and Figure 10B The first fastening member 59 is inserted through the first through-hole 55a of the first connecting portion 55 in the first fastening direction SD1 and is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a of the second connecting portion 57. For example, the first thread 59c of the first fastening member 59 is inserted through the first through-hole 55a of the first connecting portion 55. Thereafter, the first thread 59c of the first fastening member 59 is screwed with the first threaded hole 57a of the second connecting portion 57. Thus, the first fastening member 59 connects the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47 to each other.

[0147] Likewise, the second fastening member 65 is inserted through the second through-hole 67a of the third link portion 61 in the second fastening direction SD2, and is screwed with the second threaded hole 67b of the fourth link portion 63. For example, the second thread 65c of the second fastening member 65 is inserted through the second through-hole 67a of the third link portion 61. Thereafter, the second thread 65c of the second fastening member 65 is screwed with the second threaded hole 67b of the fourth link portion 63. Thus, the second fastening member 65 links the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47 with each other.

[0148] The cover assembly 39 can be attached to the front sprocket 37 regardless of whether the first crank arm 35 is attached to the crank shaft 33 or not.

[0149] As described above, the first cover member 45 and the second cover member 47 are assembled with each other in the assembly direction AD1. As shown in Figure 11A The assembly direction AD1 is a direction in which the first cover member 45 approaches the second cover member 47. For example, when the front sprocket 37 and the cover assembly 39 are viewed in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37, the assembly direction AD1 is a direction in which a pair of first opposing surfaces 46a, 46b of the first cover member 45 is orthogonal to a pair of second opposing surfaces 48a, 48b of the second cover member 47.

[0150] As shown in Figure 10A In the assembled state in which the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as one unit, the first fastening member 59 extends in the first fastening direction SD1 which intersects the assembly direction AD1. The first fastening direction SD1 is a direction in which the first fastening member 59 is inserted through the first through-hole 55a of the first link portion 55. In detail, the first fastening direction SD1 is a direction in which the first fastening member 59 is inserted through the first through-hole 55a of the first link portion 55 in a state in which the first through-hole 55a of the first link portion 55 and the first threaded hole 57a of the second link portion 57 are arranged opposite to each other.

[0151] As shown in Figure 10B In the assembled state in which the cover assembly 39 and the front sprocket 37 are assembled as one unit, the second fastening member 65 extends in the second fastening direction SD2 which intersects the assembly direction AD1. The second fastening direction SD2 is a direction in which the second fastening member 65 is inserted through the second through-hole 67a of the third link portion 61. In detail, the second fastening direction SD2 is a direction in which the second fastening member 65 is inserted through the second through-hole 67a of the third link portion 61 in a state in which the second through-hole 67a of the third link portion 61 and the second threaded hole 67b of the fourth link portion 63 are arranged opposite to each other.

[0152] In the case where the cover members are assembled as described above, as Figure 11BAs shown, the first acute angle Al is defined by the first fastening direction SDl and the assembly direction ADl. For example, the first acute angle Al is defined by the first fastening direction SDl and the assembly direction ADl when the front sprocket 37 and the cover assembly 39 are viewed in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. The first acute angle Al is greater than 0 degrees and equal to or less than 45 degrees. Preferably, the first acute angle Al is greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than or equal to 15 degrees. For example, the first acute angle Al is 10 degrees.

[0153] The second acute angle A2 is defined by the second fastening direction SD2 and the assembly direction ADl. For example, the second acute angle A2 is defined by the second fastening direction SD2 and the assembly direction ADl when the front sprocket 37 and the cover assembly 39 are viewed in the axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis X2 of the front sprocket 37. The second acute angle A2 is greater than 0 degrees and equal to or less than 45 degrees. Preferably, the second acute angle A2 is greater than or equal to 5 degrees and less than or equal to 15 degrees. For example, the second acute angle A2 is 10 degrees. That is, in the present embodiment, the second acute angle A2 is equal to the first acute angle Al.

[0154] (Industrial Applicability)

[0155] The present application can be applied to a cover assembly for a front sprocket of a human-powered vehicle and a front sprocket assembly for a human-powered vehicle.

[0156] Symbol Explanation:

[0157] 1 Bicycle

[0158] 37 Front sprocket

[0159] 37a Axial outer side

[0160] 37b Axial inner side

[0161] 39 Cover assembly

[0162] 45 First cover member

[0163] 47 Second cover member

[0164] 49 First coupling structure

[0165] 51 Second coupling structure

[0166] 53 Engaging structure

[0167] 54 First tool engaging portion

[0168] 55 First coupling portion

[0169] 55a First through-hole

[0170] 57 Second coupling portion

[0171] 57a first threaded hole

[0172] 59 first fastening member

[0173] 59a first abutment portion

[0174] 59c first thread

[0175] 59b first shaft portion

[0176] 60 second tool engaging portion

[0177] 61 third linking portion

[0178] 63 fourth linking portion

[0179] 65 second fastening member

[0180] 65a second abutment portion

[0181] 65c second thread

[0182] 65b second shaft portion

[0183] 67a second through hole

[0184] 67b second threaded hole

[0185] 69 first engaging member

[0186] 71 second engaging member

[0187] AD1 assembly direction

[0188] SD1 first fastening direction

[0189] SD2 second fastening direction

[0190] A1 first acute angle

[0191] A2 second acute angle

[0192] BP axial center surface

Claims

1. A cover assembly for use with the front sprocket of a manually driven vehicle, comprising: The first cover component is configured to be mounted on the front sprocket; The second cover component is configured to be mounted on the front sprocket; and The first connecting structure is configured to connect the first cover component and the second cover component to each other. The front sprocket has an axially outer surface and an axially inner surface, the axially inner surface being located axially opposite to the axially outer surface about the axis of rotation of the front sprocket. With the front sprocket mounted on the manually driven vehicle, the axial inner surface is configured to face the axial center plane of the manually driven vehicle in the axial direction. In the assembled state where the cover assembly and the front sprocket are assembled as a single unit, the first cover component and the second cover component are configured to be disposed on the axial outer side of the front sprocket. The first connecting structure includes a tool engaging portion, which is located on the axial inner side of the front sprocket in the assembled state.

2. The cover assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first connecting structure includes: a first connecting portion disposed on the first cover component; a second connecting portion disposed on the second cover component; and a first fastening component configured to connect the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion to each other.

3. The cover assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The first fastening member has a first abutting portion and a first shaft portion with a first thread. The first connecting part has a first through hole. The second connecting part has a first threaded hole. The first thread of the first shaft portion is configured to engage with the first threaded hole after passing through the first through hole.

4. The cover assembly according to claim 3, wherein, When the first thread of the first shaft portion is engaged with the first threaded hole, the first abutting portion of the first fastening member is configured to abut against the first connecting portion.

5. The cover assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The cover assembly also features a second connecting structure. The second connection structure includes: a third connection portion disposed on one of the first cover component and the second cover component; a fourth connection portion disposed on the other of the first cover component and the second cover component; and a second fastening component configured to connect the third connection portion and the fourth connection portion to each other.

6. The cover assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The second fastening member has a second abutment portion and a second shaft portion with a second thread. The third connecting part has one of a second through hole and a second threaded hole. The fourth connecting portion has one of the second through hole and the second threaded hole. The second thread of the second shaft portion is configured to engage with the second threaded hole after passing through the second through hole.

7. The cover assembly according to claim 6, wherein, With the second thread of the second shaft portion engaged with the second threaded hole, the second abutting portion of the second fastening member is configured to abut against one of the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion. One of the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion has the second through hole.

8. The cover assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The third connecting part is provided on the second cover component. The fourth connecting part is provided on the first cover component.

9. The cover assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The second fastening member has a second abutment portion and a second shaft portion with a second thread. The third connecting part has a second through hole. The fourth connecting part has a second threaded hole. The second thread of the second shaft portion is configured to engage with the second threaded hole after passing through the second through hole.

10. The cover assembly according to claim 9, wherein, When the second thread of the second shaft is engaged with the second threaded hole, the second abutting portion of the second fastening member is configured to abut against the third connecting portion.

11. The cap assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein, When the cover assembly is viewed along the axial direction, the first connecting structure is positioned on the opposite side of the second connecting structure about the axis of rotation.

12. The cap assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The cover assembly also features a locking structure that engages with the front sprocket. The locking structure is configured to inhibit the movement of the cover assembly relative to the front sprocket.

13. The cover assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The engagement structure includes: At least one first engaging member is configured to be disposed on the first cover member to inhibit movement of the first cover member relative to the front sprocket; and At least one second engaging component is configured to be disposed on the second cover component to inhibit movement of the second cover component relative to the front sprocket.

14. The cover assembly according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one first engaging component includes a plurality of first engaging components. The at least one second engaging component includes a plurality of second engaging components.

15. The cover assembly according to claim 2, wherein... The first cover component and the second cover component are assembled together in the assembly direction. In the assembled state where the cover assembly and the front sprocket are assembled as a unit, the first fastening component extends in a first fastening direction that intersects the assembly direction.

16. The cover assembly according to claim 15, wherein, The first acute angle defined by the first fastening direction and the assembly direction is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 45 degrees.

17. The cover assembly according to claim 16, wherein, The cover assembly also includes a second connecting structure, which comprises: a third connecting portion disposed on one of the first cover component and the second cover component; a fourth connecting portion disposed on the other of the first cover component and the second cover component; and a second fastening member configured to connect the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion to each other. In the assembled state, the second fastening member extends in a second fastening direction that intersects the assembly direction.

18. The cover assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The second acute angle defined by the second fastening direction and the assembly direction is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 45 degrees.

19. The cover assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The second acute angle is equal to the first acute angle.

20. The cover assembly according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein, When the cover assembly is viewed axially about the rotation center axis of the front sprocket, the first connecting structure is positioned on the opposite side of the second connecting structure about the rotation center axis.

21. The cover assembly according to claim 11, wherein, The cover assembly also features a locking structure that engages with the front sprocket. The locking structure is configured to inhibit the movement of the cover assembly relative to the front sprocket.

22. A front sprocket assembly for a manually driven vehicle, comprising: The front sprocket; and The cover assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

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