Bicycle pedal

Abstract

A bicycle pedal 12 includes a pedal shaft 20, a pedaling body 28, a pedal body 22, a first cleat securing member 24, and a second cleat securing member 26. The pedaling body 28 is rotatably supported to the pedal shaft 20 for rotation about a rotational center axis R1 of the pedal shaft 20. The pedal body 22 is rotatably disposed to the pedal shaft 20 for rotation about the rotational center axis R1 and for pivoting about the rotational center axis R1 relative to the pedaling body 28. The first and second cleat securing members 24, 26 are pivotably supported to the pedal body 22 for pivoting between a cleat retaining position and a non-cleat retaining position. The first cleat securing member 24 pivots about a first pivot axis P1 that is offset from the rotational center axis R1. The second cleat securing member 26 pivots about a second pivot axis P2 that is offset from the rotational center axis R1 and the first pivot axis P1.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to a bicycle pedal. More specifically, this invention relates to a bicycle pedal that is detachable and engageable with a locking plate. Background Technology

[0002] Bicycle pedals are designed for specific purposes, such as comfortable and recreational cycling, mountain biking, and road racing. A particularly popular type of bicycle pedal is the step-in or clipless pedal. Traditional step-in or clipless pedals are releasably connected to cleats fixed to the sole of the cyclist's shoe. Thus, the bottom of the cyclist's shoe is secured to the pedal to transfer the cyclist's pedaling force to the bicycle pedal. In other words, with clipless pedals, the shoe and pedal are in a constant engagement state when the cleats are engaged in the cleat clamping mechanism, allowing for efficient transmission of pedaling force. A traditional clipless bicycle pedal includes a pedal axle that can be attached to the bicycle crank, a main pedal body rotatably supported on the pedal axle, and a cleat securing mechanism. For this type of traditional bicycle pedal, cleat disengagement is typically achieved by twisting the shoe when it is attached to the pedal, causing the heel to move outward. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In general, the present invention relates to a variety of features of bicycle pedals that are detachable and engageable with locking plates.

[0004] In view of the state of the prior art, and according to a first aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal is provided, which generally includes a pedal axle, a pedal body, a pedal body, a first cleat fixing member, and a second cleat fixing member. The pedal axle has a rotational central axis. The pedal body is rotatably supported relative to the pedal axle to rotate about the rotational central axis of the pedal axle. The pedal body has a first pedal surface and a second pedal surface. The pedal body is rotatably disposed relative to the pedal axle to rotate about the rotational central axis and pivots relative to the pedal body about the rotational central axis. The first cleat fixing member pivotally supports the pedal body between a first cleat holding position and a first cleat non-holding position, pivoting about a first pivot axis offset from the rotational central axis. The second cleat fixing member pivotally supports the pedal body between the second cleat holding position and the second cleat non-holding position, pivoting about a second pivot axis offset from both the rotational central axis and the first pivot axis.

[0005] The bicycle pedals described in the first aspect have been improved, adding an option for how to attach shoes with clips to the pedals.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the invention, the bicycle pedal of the first aspect further includes a first biasing member and a second biasing member. The first biasing member biases the first latch retaining member about a first pivot axis toward a first latch holding position. The second biasing member biases the second latch retaining member about a second pivot axis toward a second latch holding position. Using the bicycle pedal of the second aspect, the first latch retaining member and the second latch retaining member can reliably return to the latch holding position to secure the latch after a latch engagement operation.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to the first or second aspect is configured such that a first latch retaining member includes a first latch engagement surface spaced apart from the pedal body relative to a first pedal surface, and a second latch retaining member includes a second latch engagement surface spaced apart from the pedal body relative to the first pedal surface. Using the bicycle pedal according to the third aspect, the first and second latch engagement surfaces can be easily accessed so that the latches can be easily engaged to the bicycle pedal during latch engagement operation.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that a first latch retaining member further includes a first inclined surface, the first inclined surface being arranged to receive a latch clamping force so that the first latch retaining member pivots about a first pivot axis during latch engagement operation. With the first latch retaining member in a neutral rest position, the first inclined surface is inclined about a reference plane that completely encompasses the first and second pivot axes. A second latch retaining member further includes a second inclined surface, the second inclined surface being arranged to receive a latch clamping force so that the second latch retaining member pivots about a second pivot axis during latch engagement operation. With the second latch retaining member in a neutral rest position, the second inclined surface is inclined about the reference plane. Using the bicycle pedal according to the fourth aspect, the first and second latch retaining members can more easily pivot to engage the latches during latch engagement operation.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to any one of the first to fourth aspects further includes a third latch fixing member and a fourth latch fixing member. The third latch fixing member is pivotally supported on the pedal body to pivot about a first pivot axis between a third latch holding position and a third latch non-holding position. The fourth latch fixing member is pivotally disposed on the pedal body to pivot about a second pivot axis between a fourth latch holding position and a fourth latch non-holding position. Using the bicycle pedal according to the fifth aspect, latches can be reliably fixed to either side of the bicycle pedal.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, the bicycle pedal of the fifth aspect further includes a third biasing member and a fourth biasing member. The third biasing member biases the third latch retaining member about a first pivot axis toward the third latch holding position. The fourth biasing member biases the fourth latch retaining member about a second pivot axis toward the fourth latch holding position. Using the bicycle pedal according to the sixth aspect, the third latch retaining member and the fourth latch retaining member can reliably return to the latch holding position to secure the latches after a latch engagement operation.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to the fifth or sixth aspect is configured such that a third latch retaining member includes a third latch engagement surface spaced outward from the pedal body relative to a second pedal surface, and a fourth latch retaining member includes a fourth latch engagement surface spaced outward from the pedal body relative to a second pedal surface. Using the bicycle pedal according to the seventh aspect, the third and fourth latch engagement surfaces can be easily accessed so that the latches can be easily engaged to the bicycle pedal during latch engagement operation.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to any one of the fifth to seventh aspects is configured such that the third latch retaining member further includes a third inclined surface arranged to receive a latch clamping force, causing the third latch retaining member to pivot about a first pivot axis during latch engagement operation, and the fourth latch retaining member further includes a fourth inclined surface arranged to receive a latch clamping force, causing the fourth latch retaining member to pivot about a second pivot axis during latch engagement operation. Using the bicycle pedal according to the eighth aspect, the third and fourth latch retaining members can more easily pivot to engage the latch during latch engagement operation.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, the bicycle pedal according to any one of the first to eighth aspects further includes a biasing element operably disposed between the pedal body and the pedal body to bias the pedal body relative to the pedal body to a neutral rest position. Using the bicycle pedal according to the ninth aspect, the pedal body can be held in the neutral rest position before performing a clip engagement operation, and can pivot relative to the pedal body to allow the clips to easily engage with the pedal body in a variety of ways.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the invention, the bicycle pedal of the ninth aspect is configured such that the first cleat fixing member protrudes at least partially from the pedal body relative to the first pedal surface when the pedal body is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body, and the second cleat fixing member protrudes at least partially from the pedal body relative to the first pedal surface when the pedal body is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body. Using the bicycle pedal according to the tenth aspect, the first and second cleat fixing members can be easily accessed so that the cleat can be easily engaged to the bicycle pedal during cleat engagement operation.

[0015] According to the eleventh aspect of the invention, the bicycle pedal according to the ninth or tenth aspect is configured such that the third locking member protrudes at least partially from the pedal body relative to the second pedal surface when the pedal body is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body, and the fourth locking member protrudes at least partially from the pedal body relative to the second pedal surface when the pedal body is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body. Using the bicycle pedal according to the eleventh aspect, the third and fourth locking members can be easily accessed so that the locking members can be easily engaged to the bicycle pedal during locking engagement operation.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is configured such that, when viewed in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, the axis of rotation is positioned between a first pivot axis and a second pivot axis. Using the bicycle pedal according to the twelfth aspect, the locking member of the bicycle pedal can be reliably connected to the pedal body in a relatively compact manner.

[0017] According to a thirteenth aspect of the invention, a bicycle pedal according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured such that the rotation center axis, the first pivot axis, and the second pivot axis are parallel to each other. Using the bicycle pedal according to the thirteenth aspect, the locking member of the bicycle pedal can be further reliably connected to the pedal body in a relatively compact manner.

[0018] According to a fourteenth aspect of the invention, the bicycle pedal of the thirteenth aspect is configured such that the rotation center axis, the first pivot axis, and the second pivot axis are all disposed in a single reference plane. Using the bicycle pedal according to the fourteenth aspect, the locking plate fixing member of the bicycle pedal can be further reliably connected to the pedal body in a relatively compact manner.

[0019] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the bicycle pedals disclosed in this invention from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the bicycle pedals disclosed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Selected embodiments of the invention will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this original disclosure, wherein...

[0021] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a bicycle pedal assembly according to the first embodiment, including a bicycle pedal connected to a crank arm and a cleat connected to a cycling shoe;

[0022] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged 3D view of the bicycle pedals shown;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 Another enlarged perspective view of the bicycle pedals shown;

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figures 1 to 3 The diagram shows a top view of the bicycle pedals.

[0025] Figure 5 yes Figures 1 to 4 The image shows a bottom view of the bicycle pedals.

[0026] Figure 6 yes Figures 1 to 5 The diagram shows the outer elevation view of the bicycle pedals.

[0027] Figure 7 yes Figures 1 to 6 The diagram shows the inner elevation view of the bicycle pedals.

[0028] Figure 8 yes Figures 1 to 7 A partial 3D view of the bicycle pedals shown;

[0029] Figure 9 yes Figures 1 to 7 A partial 3D view of a selected portion of the bicycle pedals shown;

[0030] Figure 10 yes Figures 1 to 7 A partial 3D view of a selected portion of the bicycle pedals shown;

[0031] Figure 11 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shows an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, in which a portion of the pedal body has been cut open and the pedal body is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body.

[0032] Figure 12 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figure 11However, the pedal body has already pivoted relative to the pedal body due to the locking plate applying a locking plate clamping force to the first locking plate fixing member;

[0033] Figure 13 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figure 11 and Figure 12 However, the locking plate has already moved relative to the pedal body from... Figure 12 The position shown is moved to engage the second locking plate fixing member;

[0034] Figure 14 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 13 However, one locking piece has already applied another locking piece clamping force to the first locking piece fixing member, causing the first locking piece fixing member to... Figure 13 The position shown is pivoted to allow the locking plate to engage with the first locking plate fixing member;

[0035] Figure 15 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 14 However, the locking plate is engaged with the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member;

[0036] Figure 16 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 15 However, the pedal body has already pivoted relative to the pedal body due to the locking force applied by the locking plate to the second locking plate fixing member;

[0037] Figure 17 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 16 However, the locking plate has already moved relative to the pedal body from... Figure 16 The position shown is moved to engage the first locking plate fixing member;

[0038] Figure 18 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 17 However, the locking plate has already applied another locking plate clamping force to the second locking plate fixing member, causing the second locking plate fixing member to... Figure 17 The position shown is pivoted to allow the locking plate to engage with the second locking plate fixing member;

[0039] Figure 19 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 18However, when the pedal body is in a neutral and stationary position relative to the pedal body, the locking plate presses downwards on both the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member.

[0040] Figure 20 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shown is an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, similar to... Figures 11 to 19 However, by simultaneously applying a locking plate clamping force to the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member, the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member are pulled from... Figure 19 The position shown simultaneously pivots, thereby allowing the locking plate to engage with the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member;

[0041] Figure 21 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shows a top view of a bicycle pedal, in which the locking plate engages with a first locking plate fixing member and a second locking plate fixing member;

[0042] Figure 22 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shows a top view of a bicycle pedal, in which the cleat has been rotated to allow it to begin disengaging from the first and second cleat retaining members.

[0043] Figure 23 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shows a top view of a bicycle pedal, in which the cleat has been rotated to disengage from the first and second cleat retaining members;

[0044] Figure 24 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shows an outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, in which the locking plate has been rotated to disengage from the first locking plate retaining member and the second locking plate retaining member;

[0045] Figure 25 yes Figures 1 to 7 The bicycle pedal shown is a bottom view, in which the cleat has been rotated so that the cleat begins to disengage from the third and fourth cleat retaining members;

[0046] Figure 26 yes Figures 1 to 7 The diagram shows a partially enlarged outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, in which the first locking plate fixing member is located in the first locking plate holding position, and the third locking plate fixing member is located in the third locking plate holding position;

[0047] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 The diagram shows a partially enlarged outer elevation view of a bicycle pedal, in which the first cleat retaining member has been pivoted to the first cleat non-retaining position, and the third cleat retaining member is in the third cleat retaining position.

[0048] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0049] 10 Bicycle pedal assembly

[0050] 12 Bicycle pedals

[0051] 14 locking plates

[0052] 14a Shoe Attachment

[0053] 14b First locking plate protrusion

[0054] 14c Second locking plate protrusion

[0055] 20 Pedal Shaft

[0056] 20a External thread section

[0057] 20b Support Section

[0058] 22. Pedal Body

[0059] 22a Protrusion

[0060] 24 First locking plate fixing component

[0061] 24a First locking plate mating surface

[0062] 24b First inclined surface

[0063] 24c Mounting flange

[0064] 24c1 pivot hole

[0065] 24c2 opening

[0066] 24d contact area

[0067] 26 Second locking plate fixing component

[0068] 26a Second locking plate mating surface

[0069] 26b Second inclined surface

[0070] 26c Mounting flange

[0071] 26c1 pivot hole

[0072] 26c2 opening

[0073] 26d contact area

[0074] 28. The main body of the trampling

[0075] 28a First step surface

[0076] 28b Second step surface

[0077] 28c protrusion

[0078] 29 Supporting components

[0079] 30 Fasteners

[0080] 31 Fasteners

[0081] 32 Bias Components

[0082] 32a Winding section

[0083] 32b First leg

[0084] 32c Second leg

[0085] 34 Third locking plate fixing component

[0086] 34a Third locking plate mating surface

[0087] 34b Third inclined surface

[0088] 34c Mounting flange

[0089] 34c1 pivot hole

[0090] 34c2 opening

[0091] 34d contact area

[0092] 36 Fourth locking plate fixing component

[0093] 36a Fourth locking plate mating surface

[0094] 36b Fourth inclined surface

[0095] 36c Mounting flange

[0096] 36c1 pivot hole

[0097] 36c2 opening

[0098] 36d contact area

[0099] 40 First pivot pin

[0100] 42 Second pivot pin

[0101] 50 First offset component

[0102] 50a Winding section

[0103] 50b First leg

[0104] 50c Second leg

[0105] 52 Second offset component

[0106] 54 Third Offset Component

[0107] 56 Fourth offset component

[0108] 60 First Support Component

[0109] 62 Second support component

[0110] 64 First resistance component

[0111] 64A First locking plate contact component

[0112] 64A1 First protrusion

[0113] 64B First elastic member

[0114] 66 Second resistance component

[0115] 66A Second Locking Plate Contact Component

[0116] 66A1 second protrusion

[0117] 66B Second Elastic Member

[0118] 68 Third resistance component

[0119] 68A Third Locking Plate Contact Component

[0120] 68A1 third protrusion

[0121] 68B Third elastic member

[0122] 70 Fourth resistance component

[0123] 70A Fourth Locking Plate Contact Component

[0124] 70A1 fourth protrusion

[0125] 70B Fourth Elastic Member

[0126] A1, A2 locking chip receiving areas

[0127] B bicycle

[0128] CA crank arm

[0129] Directions D1 and D2

[0130] P1 First pivot axis

[0131] P2 Second pivot axis

[0132] R1 Rotation center axis

[0133] RP Single Reference Plane

[0134] S shoes

[0135] X1 and X2 directions Detailed Implementation

[0136] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the following description of embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention to the definition provided by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0137] First refer to Figure 1 The illustration shows a bicycle pedal assembly 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle pedal assembly 10 generally includes a bicycle pedal 12 and a cleat 14. The bicycle pedal 12 is a clip-on or through-type pedal configured to releasably secure the cleat 14 to it. Here, the bicycle pedal 12 is the left bicycle pedal. The bicycle pedal assembly 10 may further include a right bicycle pedal and an additional cleat. Depending on desire and / or need, the right bicycle pedal may be identical to or a mirror image of the bicycle pedal 12 (i.e., the left bicycle pedal). Therefore, the description of the bicycle pedal 12 applies to both the left and right bicycle pedals. Thus, only one bicycle pedal is shown in the accompanying drawings and the discussion below.

[0138] Bicycle pedal 12 is mounted to the crank arm CA of bicycle B to rotate together with the crank arm CA. Clamp 14 is mounted to the bottom surface of the sole of cycling shoe S. Clamp 14 is configured to be releasably secured to bicycle pedal 12. Clamp 14 is configured to be attached to bicycle pedal 12 in such a way that it allows limited rotational movement, but releases from bicycle pedal 12 when the rotational movement of clamp 14 exceeds a specified angular movement with respect to bicycle pedal 12.

[0139] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 generally includes a pedal axle 20, a pedal body 22, a first locking plate fixing member 24, and a second locking plate fixing member 26. The locking plate 14 is held to the pedal body 22 by the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26. Specifically, as... Figures 14 to 18 As shown, the locking plate 14 has a shoe attachment portion 14a, a first locking plate protrusion 14b, and a second locking plate protrusion 14c. When the locking plate 14 is fixed to the pedal body 22, the first locking plate fixing member 24 engages with the first locking plate protrusion 14b, and the second locking plate protrusion 14c engages with the second locking plate fixing member 26. The pedal shaft 20 has a rotation center axis R1. The pedal body 22 is rotatably disposed about the pedal shaft 20. In particular, the pedal body 22 is rotatably disposed about the pedal shaft 20 to rotate about the rotation center axis R1.

[0140] like Figure 3 and Figure 8As shown, the pedal shaft 20 is a rigid member that rotatably supports the pedal body 22 in a conventional manner. The pedal shaft 20 is preferably made of a rigid material such as metal or fiber-reinforced material. The pedal shaft 20 has an externally threaded section 20a and a support section 20b. The externally threaded section 20a is configured to screw into the crank arm CA. The support section 20b is used to rotatably support the pedal body 22 via one or more bearings.

[0141] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pedal body 22 is a rigid member with an overall H-shape, used to pivotally support the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26. The pedal body 22 is preferably made of a rigid material such as metal or fiber-reinforced material. The first locking plate fixing member 24 is pivotally disposed to the pedal body 22 to pivot about a first pivot axis P1 between a first locking plate holding position and a first locking plate non-holding position. Conversely, the second locking plate fixing member 26 is pivotally disposed to the pedal body 22 to pivot about a second pivot axis P2 between a second locking plate holding position and a second locking plate non-holding position. The second locking plate fixing member 26 is disposed to the pedal body 22 and spaced apart from the first locking plate fixing member 24 to form a locking plate receiving area A1 between them.

[0142] like Figure 24 As shown, when viewed from a direction parallel to the rotation center axis R1, the rotation center axis R1 is positioned between the first pivot axis P1 and the second pivot axis P2. The first pivot axis P1 is offset from the rotation center axis R1. The second pivot axis P2 is offset from both the rotation center axis R1 and the first pivot axis P1. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the rotation center axis R1, the first pivot axis P1, and the second pivot axis P2 are parallel to each other. Figure 24 As shown, the rotation center axis R1, the first pivot axis P1, and the second pivot axis P2 are all set in a single reference plane RP.

[0143] In this embodiment, as Figures 11 to 20 As shown, both the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26 are movable relative to the pedal body 22 for securing and releasing the locking plate 14. Alternatively, one of the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26 may be configured to be fixed or immovable during engagement of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22 and during release of the locking plate 14 from the pedal body 22.

[0144] In this embodiment, as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a pedal body 28. The pedal body 28 has a first pedal surface 28a and a second pedal surface 28b. The first pedal surface 28a and the second pedal surface 28b face opposite directions. The pedal body 28 substantially surrounds the pedal body 22. The pedal body 28 is rotatably supported about the pedal shaft 20 to rotate about the rotational center axis R1 of the pedal shaft 20. Therefore, both the pedal body 22 and the pedal body 28 rotate about the rotational center axis R1 of the pedal shaft 20. Furthermore, the pedal body 22 and the pedal body 28 are configured to pivot relative to each other by a predetermined amount of angular motion. In other words, the pedal body 22 is rotatably arranged about the pedal shaft 20 to rotate about the rotational center axis R1 and to pivot about the rotational center axis R1 relative to the pedal body 28.

[0145] Here, as Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a support member 29, which is connected to the pedal body 28 by a pair of fasteners 30. Here, the fasteners 30 are screws. The pedal shaft 20 passes through an opening in the support member 29. The support member 29 is configured to restrict the bending of the pedal shaft 20. The pedal body 28 is attached to the pedal shaft 20 by fasteners 31. Here, the fasteners 31 are fixing screws, which are screwed into threaded holes formed in the ends of the pedal shaft 20.

[0146] like Figures 11 to 18 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a biasing element 32. The biasing element 32 is operatively disposed between the pedal body 28 and the pedal body 22 to bias the pedal body 22 relative to the pedal body 28 to a neutral rest position. Here, the biasing element 32 is a torsion spring disposed on a fastener 31 and located between the pedal body 22 and the pedal body 28. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element 32 has a coiled portion 32a, a first leg 32b, and a second leg 32c. The first leg 32b and the second leg 32c extend from the coiled portion 32a and intersect each other. The first leg 32b and the second leg 32c contact a protrusion 28c of the pedal body 28 and a protrusion 22a of the pedal body 22. For example, in the neutral rest position, the first leg 32b and the second leg 32c contact the protrusion 28c of the pedal body 28 and the protrusion 22a of the pedal body 22. When viewed from the direction of the rotation center axis R1, protrusion 28c is located between the first leg 32b and the second leg 32c. When viewed from the direction of the rotation center axis R1, protrusion 22a of the pedal body 22 is located between the first leg 32b and the second leg 32c. The engagement of the first leg 32b and the second leg 32c with the protrusion 28c of the pedal body 28 and the protrusion 22a of the pedal body 22 keeps the pedal body 22 in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body 28. Figure 12 and Figure 16 As shown, the pedal body 22 can pivot relative to the pedal body 28 against the biasing force of the biasing element 32. For example, as Figure 12 As shown, the locking plate 14 can press against the first locking plate fixing member 24 to cause the second leg 32c to deflect and cause the pedal body 22 to pivot relative to the pedal body 28. The second leg 32c is pushed by the protrusion 22a in the circumferential direction about the axis R1 to generate a spring force about the protrusion 22a in the circumferential direction. The first leg 32b is held in the same position as the neutral rest position by the protrusion 28c. Furthermore, for example, as... Figure 16 As shown, locking plate 14 can press against second locking plate fixing member 26 to cause the first leg 32b to deflect and the pedal body 22 to pivot relative to the pedal body 28. The first leg 32b is pushed by protrusion 22a in the circumferential direction about axis R1 to generate a spring force about protrusion 22a in the circumferential direction. The second leg 32c is held in the same position as the neutral rest position by protrusion 28c. These spring forces act to return the pedal body 22 to the neutral rest position relative to the pedal body 28.

[0147] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle pedal 12 is a double-sided bicycle pedal, meaning that the cleat 14 can be releasably secured to either side of the bicycle pedal 12. Therefore, the bicycle pedal 12 is specifically designed for off-road bicycles, not for road bicycles. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the construction of the bicycle pedal 12 can be modified as needed and / or desired for use as a road-type bicycle pedal. In other words, it is apparent that the bicycle pedal 12 can be designed such that the cleat 14 can only be engaged to one side of the bicycle pedal 12.

[0148] Therefore, in this embodiment, as Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the bicycle pedal further includes a third latch fixing member 34. The third latch fixing member 34 is pivotally supported to the pedal body 22 between a third latch holding position and a third latch non-holding position, and pivots about a first pivot axis P1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bicycle pedal further includes a fourth latch fixing member 36. The fourth latch fixing member 36 is pivotally disposed to the pedal body 22 and pivots about a second pivot axis P2 between a fourth latch holding position and a fourth latch non-holding position. Here, the third latch fixing member 34 and the fourth latch fixing member 36 are disposed to the pedal body 22 and spaced apart from each other to form a latch receiving area A2 between them.

[0149] The first locking plate retaining member 24 is pivotally connected to the pedal body 22 via a first pivot pin 40 defining a first pivot axis P1. The first locking plate retaining member 24 is configured to at least partially protrude from the pedal body 28 relative to the first pedal surface 28a when the pedal body 22 is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body 28. In this way, during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22, the locking plate 14 can be engaged with the first locking plate retaining member 24 either by hooking the locking plate 14 onto the first locking plate retaining member 24 or by pressing the locking plate 14 against the first locking plate retaining member 24.

[0150] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first locking plate retaining member 24 includes a first locking plate engagement surface 24a. The first locking plate engagement surface 24a is spaced apart from the pedal body 28 relative to the first pedal surface 28a. Furthermore, the first locking plate retaining member 24 further includes a first inclined surface 24b, which is arranged to receive locking plate clamping force to pivot the first locking plate retaining member 24 about a first pivot axis P1 during engagement operation of the locking plate 14 and the first locking plate retaining member 24. In the neutral rest position, the first inclined surface 24b is inclined about a reference plane RP that completely encompasses the first pivot axis P1 and the second pivot axis P2. The first locking plate retaining member 24 further includes a pair of mounting flanges 24c for pivotally mounting the first locking plate retaining member 24 to the pedal body 22 via a first pivot pin 40. Here, as... Figure 10 As shown, each mounting flange 24c includes a pivot hole 24c1 for receiving a first pivot pin 40.

[0151] The second locking plate retaining member 26 is pivotally connected to the pedal body 22 via a second pivot pin 42 defining a second pivot axis P2. Similar to the first locking plate retaining member 24, the second locking plate retaining member 26 is configured to at least partially protrude from the pedal body 28 relative to the first pedal surface 28a when the pedal body 22 is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body 28. In this way, during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22, the locking plate 14 can be engaged with the second locking plate retaining member 26 by hooking the locking plate 14 onto the second locking plate retaining member 26 or by pressing the locking plate 14 onto the second locking plate retaining member 26.

[0152] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the second locking plate retaining member 26 includes a second locking plate engagement surface 26a. The second locking plate engagement surface 26a is spaced apart from the pedal body 28 relative to the first pedal surface 28a. Furthermore, the second locking plate retaining member 26 also includes a second inclined surface 26b, which is arranged to receive locking plate clamping force to pivot the second locking plate retaining member 26 about a second pivot axis P2 during locking plate engagement operation. In the neutral rest position, the second inclined surface 26b is inclined about the reference plane RP. The second locking plate retaining member 26 further includes a pair of mounting flanges 26c for pivotally mounting the second locking plate retaining member 26 to the pedal body 22 via a second pivot pin 42. Here, as... Figure 10 As shown, each mounting flange 26c includes a pivot hole 26c1 for receiving a second pivot pin 42.

[0153] The third locking plate retaining member 34 is pivotally connected to the pedal body 22 via a first pivot pin 40. The third locking plate retaining member 34 is configured to at least partially protrude from the pedal body 28 relative to the second pedal surface 28b when the pedal body 22 is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body 28. In this way, during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22, the locking plate 14 can be engaged with the third locking plate retaining member 34 by hooking the locking plate 14 onto the third locking plate retaining member 34 or by pressing the locking plate 14 against the third locking plate retaining member 34.

[0154] The fourth locking plate retaining member 36 is pivotally connected to the pedal body 22 via the second pivot pin 42. Similar to the third locking plate retaining member 34, the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 is configured to at least partially protrude from the pedal body 28 relative to the second pedal surface 28b when the pedal body 22 is in a neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body 28. In this way, during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22, the locking plate 14 can engage the third locking plate retaining member 34 and / or the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 in the same manner as the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26.

[0155] like Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the third locking plate retaining member 34 includes a third locking plate engaging surface 34a spaced outward from the pedal body 28 relative to the second pedal surface 28b. Furthermore, the third locking plate retaining member 34 also includes a third inclined surface 34b arranged to receive locking plate clamping force to pivot the third locking plate retaining member 34 about a first pivot axis P1 during engagement operation of the locking plate 14 and the third locking plate retaining member 34. The third locking plate retaining member 34 further includes a pair of mounting flanges 34c for pivotally mounting the third locking plate retaining member 34 to the pedal body 22 via a first pivot pin 40. Here, as... Figure 10 As shown, each mounting flange 34c includes a pivot hole 34c1 for receiving a first pivot pin 40.

[0156] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 includes a fourth locking plate engaging surface 36a spaced outward from the pedal body 28 relative to the second pedal surface 28b. Furthermore, the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 further includes a fourth inclined surface 36b arranged to receive locking plate clamping force to pivot the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 about a second pivot axis P2 during engagement operation of the locking plate 14 and the fourth locking plate retaining member 36. The fourth locking plate retaining member 36 also includes a pair of mounting flanges 36c for pivotally mounting the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 to the pedal body 22 via a second pivot pin 42. Here, as... Figure 10 As shown, each mounting flange 36c includes a pivot hole 36c1 for receiving a second pivot pin 42.

[0157] Reference Figures 11 to 20 The diagram illustrates three different locking plate engagement operations. Specifically, during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22, one of the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26 is pivoted, or both the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26 are pivoted.

[0158] For example, Figures 11 to 15 A locking plate engagement operation is shown where only the first locking plate retaining member 24 pivots relative to the pedal body 22, thereby securing the locking plate 14 to the pedal body 22 via the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26. Specifically, as... Figure 12 As shown, the cyclist can press the cleat 14 downwards onto the first cleat retaining member 24, causing the second cleat retaining member 26 to move upwards to a position further above the pedal surface 28a. Then, as... Figure 13As shown, the rider can slide the cleat 14 in the D1 direction, so that the second cleat protrusion 14c of the cleat 14 is located under the second cleat engagement surface 26a. Direction D1 is perpendicular to the rotation center axis R1, parallel to the reference plane RP, and is the direction from the first cleat fixing member 24 to the second cleat fixing member 26. Now, as... Figure 14 As shown, the rider can further press down on the locking plate 14, causing the first locking plate fixing member 24 to pivot relative to the pedal body 22, thereby securing the locking plate 14 to the pedal body 22 via the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26. Furthermore, as... Figure 14 As shown, by pushing the locking plate 14 against the second locking plate fixing member 26 in the D1 direction, the pedal body 22 rotates about the rotation center axis R1 about the pedal body 28 in the X1 direction. Direction X1 is the direction of rotation of the pedal body 22 about the rotation axis R1, causing the first locking plate fixing member 24 to protrude from the first pedal surface 28a of the pedal body 28 relative to its neutral rest position. Therefore, the first locking plate fixing member 24 protrudes further from the first pedal surface 28a. Now, as... Figure 15 As shown, the locking plate 14 is secured to the pedal body 22 by a first locking plate retaining member 24 and a second locking plate retaining member 26. In this example, the second locking plate retaining member 26 does not move relative to the pedal body 22 during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22. Alternatively, the second locking plate retaining member 26 may be configured to move relative to the pedal body 22 during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22.

[0159] Alternatively, for example, Figures 16 to 18 A locking plate engagement operation is shown where only the second locking plate retaining member 26 pivots relative to the pedal body 22, to secure the locking plate 14 to the pedal body 22 via the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26. Specifically, as... Figure 16 As shown, the cyclist can press the cleat 14 downwards onto the second cleat retaining member 26, causing the first cleat retaining member 24 to move upwards to a position further above the first pedal surface 28a. Then, as... Figure 17 As shown, the rider can slide the cleat 14 in the D2 direction so that the first cleat protrusion 14b of the cleat 14 is located under the first cleat engagement surface 24a. Direction D2 is perpendicular to the rotation center axis R1, parallel to the reference plane RP, and is the direction from the second cleat fixing member 26 to the first cleat fixing member 24. Direction D2 is opposite to direction D1. Now, as... Figure 18 As shown, the rider can further press down on the cleat 14, causing the second cleat fixing member 26 to pivot relative to the pedal body 22, thereby securing the cleat 14 to the pedal body 22 via the first cleat fixing member 24 and the second cleat fixing member 26. Furthermore, as... Figure 18As shown, by pushing the locking plate 14 against the first locking plate fixing member 24 in the D2 direction, the pedal body 22 rotates about the rotation center axis R1 about the pedal body 28 in the X2 direction. Direction X2 is the direction of rotation of the pedal body 22 about the rotation axis R1, causing the second locking plate fixing member 26 to protrude from the first pedal surface 28a of the pedal body 28 relative to its neutral rest position. Direction X2 is opposite to direction X1. Therefore, the second locking plate fixing member 26 protrudes further from the first pedal surface 28a. Now, as... Figure 15 As shown, the locking plate 14 is secured to the pedal body 22 by a first locking plate fixing member 24 and a second locking plate fixing member 26. In this example, the first locking plate fixing member 24 does not move relative to the pedal body 22 during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22. Alternatively, the first locking plate fixing member 24 may be configured to move relative to the pedal body 22 during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22.

[0160] Similarly, for example, Figure 19 and Figure 20 A locking engagement operation is shown in which both the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26 pivot relative to the pedal body 22, so as to fix the locking plate 14 to the pedal body 22 by means of the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26. Here, as Figure 19 and 20 As shown, during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the pedal body 22, the locking plate 14 can simultaneously press downwards against both the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26, causing both the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26 to pivot from the locking plate non-retaining position to the locking plate retaining position. Therefore, as Figure 15 As shown, the locking plate 14 is fixed to the pedal body 22 by the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26.

[0161] like Figure 4 and Figure 10 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a first biasing member 50. Here, the first biasing member 50 includes a torsion spring. The first biasing member 50 is operatively disposed between the pedal body 22 and the first latch retaining member 24. The first biasing member 50 biases the first latch retaining member 24 about a first pivot axis P1 toward a first latch holding position. Specifically, the first biasing member 50 is configured to apply a first biasing force to the first latch retaining member 24 to bias the first latch retaining member 24 about the first pivot axis P1 toward a first latch holding position. Figure 26 and Figure 27As shown, the first biasing member 50 has a winding portion 50a, a first leg 50b, and a second leg 50c. The first leg 50b contacts the abutment portion 24d of the first locking piece retaining member 24, so that the first locking piece retaining member 24 is biased toward the first locking piece.

[0162] like Figure 4 and Figure 10 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a second biasing member 52. Here, the second biasing member 52 includes a torsion spring. The second biasing member 52 is operatively disposed between the pedal body 22 and the second latch retaining member 26. The second biasing member 52 biases the second latch retaining member 26 about a second pivot axis P2 toward a second latch holding position. Specifically, the second biasing member 52 is configured to apply a second biasing force to the second latch retaining member 26 to bias the second latch retaining member 26 about a second pivot axis P2 toward a second latch holding position. The second biasing member 52 has the same construction as the first biasing member 50. The second biasing member 52 contacts the abutment portion 26d of the second latch retaining member 26 and applies a biasing force to the second latch retaining member 26 toward the second latch holding position.

[0163] like Figure 5 and Figure 10 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a third biasing member 54. Here, the third biasing member 54 includes a torsion spring operably disposed between the pedal body 22 and the third latch retaining member 34. The third biasing member 54 biases the third latch retaining member 34 about a first pivot axis P1 toward a third latch holding position. The third biasing member 54 is configured to apply a third biasing force to the third latch retaining member 34 to bias the third latch retaining member 34 about the first pivot axis P1 toward a third latch holding position. The third biasing member 54 has the same construction as the first biasing member 50. The third biasing member 54 contacts the abutment portion 34d of the third latch retaining member 34 and applies a biasing force to the third latch retaining member 34 toward the third latch holding position.

[0164] like Figure 5 and Figure 10As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a fourth biasing member 56. Here, the fourth biasing member 56 includes a torsion spring operably disposed between the pedal body 22 and the fourth latch retaining member 36. The fourth biasing member 56 biases the fourth latch retaining member 36 about a second pivot axis P2 toward a fourth latch holding position. The fourth biasing member 56 is configured to apply a fourth biasing force to the fourth latch retaining member 36 to bias the fourth latch retaining member 36 about the second pivot axis P2 toward a fourth latch holding position. The fourth biasing member 56 has the same construction as the first biasing member 50. The fourth biasing member 56 contacts the abutment portion 36d of the fourth latch retaining member 36 and applies a biasing force to the fourth latch retaining member 36 toward the fourth latch holding position.

[0165] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the first biasing member 50 and the third biasing member 54 are supported on the pedal body 22 by a first support member 60. Specifically, the wound portion 50a of the first biasing member 50 is supported on the first support member 60. Similarly, the wound portion of the third biasing member 54 is supported on the first support member 60. Generally, the first support member 60 is a round bar or shaft fixed to the pedal body 22. More specifically, the first support member 60 includes a threaded section for releasably securing the first support member 60 to the pedal body 22. The first support member 60 passes through the opening 24c2 of the mounting flange 24c and the opening 34c2 of the mounting flange 34c. This contact between the first support member 60 and the mounting flange 24c of the first locking plate retaining member 24 establishes the rest or non-retaining position of the first locking plate retaining member 24. Similarly, this contact between the first support member 60 and the mounting flange 34c of the third locking member 34 establishes the stationary or non-retaining position of the third locking member 34.

[0166] In addition, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the second biasing member 52 and the fourth biasing member 56 are supported on the pedal body 22 by a second support member 62. Specifically, the wound portions of the second biasing member 52 and the fourth biasing member 56 are supported on the second support member 62. Generally, the second support member 62 is a round bar or shaft fixed to the pedal body 22. More specifically, the second support member 62 includes a threaded section for releasably securing the second support member 62 to the pedal body 22. The second support member 62 passes through openings 26c2 of mounting flange 26c and 36c2 of mounting flange 36c. This contact between the second support member 62 and the mounting flange 26c of the second locking plate retaining member 26 establishes a rest or non-retaining position for the second locking plate retaining member 26. Similarly, this contact between the second support member 62 and the mounting flange 36c of the fourth locking plate retaining member 36 establishes a rest or non-retaining position for the fourth locking plate retaining member 36. Here, the head of the second support member 62 forms a protrusion 22a of the pedal body 22. As described above, the protrusion 22a (the head of the second support member 62) contacts the first leg 32b and the second leg 32c of the biasing element 32.

[0167] like Figure 4 , Figure 10 and Figures 21 to 23 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a first resistance member 64. The first resistance member 64 is disposed to the pedal body 22 via a first support member 60. The first resistance member 64 is configured to apply a first resistance to the latch 14 in addition to a first biasing force during disengagement of the latch from the first latch retaining member 24 and the second latch retaining member 26. Therefore, the first resistance member 64 increases the disengagement force required for the latch 14 to disengage from the first latch retaining member 24 and the second latch retaining member 26. A first biasing member 50 and a third biasing member 54 may be disposed on the first pivot pin 40. Therefore, the first support member 60 may be omitted. Similarly, a second biasing member 52 and a fourth biasing member 56 may be disposed on the second pivot pin 42. Therefore, the second support member 62 may be omitted.

[0168] In addition, such as Figures 21 to 23As shown, the first resistance member 64 is configured not to apply a first resistance to the first locking plate retaining member 24. More specifically, the first resistance member 64 is configured not to apply a first resistance to the locking plate 14 during engagement operations with the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26. In other words, the first resistance member 64 is configured so that the engagement force required to engage the locking plate 14 with the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26 does not increase. In the illustrated embodiment, the first resistance member 64 is spaced apart from the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is fixed to the pedal body 22 by the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26. Furthermore, the first resistance member 64 is configured to contact the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is twisted during disengagement from the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26. Alternatively, the first resistance member 64 may be configured to contact the locking plate 14 during engagement operations, but the first resistance during engagement operations may be less than the first resistance during disengagement operations.

[0169] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figure 10 and Figures 21 to 23As shown, the first resistance member 64 includes a first latch contact member 64A and a first elastic member 64B. The first latch contact member 64A is configured to contact the latch 14 during a disengagement operation in which the latch 14 disengages from the first latch retaining member 24 and the second latch retaining member 26, and resists movement by the elastic force of the first elastic member 64B. More specifically, the first latch contact member 64A is configured to contact a first lateral side surface of the latch 14 during a disengagement operation in which the latch 14 disengages from the first latch retaining member 24 and the second latch retaining member 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the first latch contact member 64A includes a first protrusion 64A1 arranged in the path of the latch 14 when the latch 14 is twisted during the disengagement operation. Due to this contact between the latch 14 and the first protrusion 64A1 of the first latch contact member 64A, the first latch contact member 64A resists movement by the elastic force of the first elastic member 64B during the disengagement operation of the latch 14. In other words, the first protrusion 64A1 moves against the elastic force of the first elastic member 64B during the disengagement operation of the locking plate 14. Here, the first elastic member 64B includes a torsion spring. In the illustrated embodiment, the first elastic member 64B includes a third biasing member 54. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, a single torsion spring is used for both the third biasing member 54 and the first elastic member 64B. In the illustrated embodiment, the first locking plate retaining member 24 is disposed between the first resistance member 64 and the first biasing member 50. Alternatively, a separate torsion spring can be provided for each of the third biasing member 54 and the first elastic member 64B. In the illustrated embodiment, the first protrusion 64A1 of the first locking plate contact member 64A is biased by the first elastic member 64B to rotate toward the pedal shaft 20. That is, the first protrusion 64A1 of the first locking plate contact member 64A is biased to approach the pedal shaft 20. One arm of the torsion spring of the first elastic member 64B is biased toward the third locking plate fixing member 34, and the other arm is biased toward the first locking plate contact member 64A. The first locking plate contact member 64A contacts the first pivot pin 40 and is positioned in the circumferential direction with respect to the first support member 60.

[0170] like Figure 4 , Figure 10 and Figures 21 to 24 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a second resistance member 66. The second resistance member 66 is disposed to the pedal body 22 via a second support member 62. The second resistance member 66 is configured to apply a second resistance to the locking plate 14 in addition to the second biasing force during a disengagement operation in which the locking plate 14 disengages from the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26. Therefore, the second resistance member 66 increases the disengagement force required for the locking plate 14 to disengage from the first locking plate retaining member 24 and the second locking plate retaining member 26.

[0171] In addition, such as Figures 21 to 24 As shown, the second resistance member 66 is configured not to apply a second resistance to the first locking plate fixing member 24. Furthermore, the second resistance member 66 is configured not to apply a second resistance to the second locking plate fixing member 26. More specifically, the second resistance member 66 is configured not to apply a second resistance to the locking plate 14 during engagement operations between the locking plate 14 and the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26. In other words, the second resistance member 66 is configured such that the engagement force required for engagement between the locking plate 14 and the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26 does not increase. In the illustrated embodiment, the second resistance member 66 is spaced apart from the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is fixed to the pedal body 22 by the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26, and the second resistance member 66 is configured to contact the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is twisted during disengagement operations between the locking plate 14 and the first locking plate fixing member 24 and the second locking plate fixing member 26. Alternatively, the second resistance member 66 may be configured to contact the locking piece 14 during engagement, but the second resistance during engagement may be configured to be smaller than the second resistance during disengagement.

[0172] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figure 10 and Figures 21 to 24 As shown, the second resistance member 66 includes a second locking contact member 66A and a second elastic member 66B. The second locking contact member 66A is configured to contact the locking piece 14 and resist movement by the elastic force of the second elastic member 66B during a disengagement operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from the first locking piece retaining member 24 and the second locking piece retaining member 26. More specifically, the second locking contact member 66A is configured to contact a second lateral side surface of the locking piece 14 during a disengagement operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from the first locking piece retaining member 24 and the second locking piece retaining member 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the second locking contact member 66A includes a second protrusion 66A1 arranged in the path of the locking piece 14 when it is twisted during the disengagement operation. Due to this contact between the locking piece 14 and the second protrusion 66A1, the second locking contact member 66A resists movement by the elastic force of the second elastic member 66B during the disengagement operation of the locking piece 14. In other words, the second protrusion 66A1 resists the elastic force movement of the second elastic member 66B during the disengagement operation of the locking piece 14.

[0173] In the illustrated embodiment, the second elastic member 66B includes a torsion spring. Here, the second elastic member 66B includes a fourth biasing member 56. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, a single torsion spring is used for both the fourth biasing member 56 and the second elastic member 66B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second locking member 26 is disposed between the second resistance member 66 and the second biasing member 52. Alternatively, a separate torsion spring can be provided for each of the fourth biasing member 56 and the second elastic member 66B.

[0174] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, during the disengagement operation, the locking plate 14 simultaneously contacts the first protrusion 64A1 of the first resistance member 64 and the second protrusion 66A1 of the second resistance member 66. Alternatively, during the disengagement operation, the locking plate 14 may sequentially contact the first protrusion 64A1 of the first resistance member 64 and the second protrusion 66A1 of the second resistance member 66. Additionally, alternatively, one of the first resistance member 64 and the second resistance member 66 may be omitted if desired and / or expected. In the illustrated embodiment, the second protrusion 66A1 of the second locking plate contact member 66A is biased by the second elastic member 66B to rotate toward the pedal shaft 20. That is, the second protrusion 66A1 of the second locking plate contact member 66A is biased to approach the pedal shaft 20. One arm of the torsion spring of the second elastic member 66B biases the fourth locking plate fixing member 36, and the other arm biases the second locking plate contact member 66A. The second locking contact member 66A contacts the second pivot pin 42 and is positioned in the circumferential direction with respect to the second support member 62.

[0175] like Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 25 As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a third resistance member 68. The third resistance member 68 is disposed to the pedal body 22 via a first support member 60. A first latch retaining member 24 is disposed between the first resistance member 64 and the third resistance member 68. The third resistance member 68 is configured to apply a third resistance to the latch 14 in addition to a third biasing force during a disengagement operation in which the latch 14 disengages from at least the third latch retaining member 34. Preferably, the third resistance member 68 is configured to apply a third resistance to the latch 14 in addition to a third biasing force during a disengagement operation in which the latch 14 disengages from both the third latch retaining member 34 and the fourth latch retaining member 36. Therefore, the third resistance member 68 increases the disengagement force required to disengage the latch 14 from the third latch retaining member 34 and the fourth latch retaining member 36.

[0176] In addition, such as Figure 25As shown, the third resistance member 68 is configured not to apply a third resistance to the third locking plate fixing member 34. Furthermore, the third resistance member 68 is configured not to apply a third resistance to the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. More specifically, the third resistance member 68 is configured not to apply a third resistance to the locking plate 14 during the engagement operation of the locking plate 14 and the third locking plate fixing member 34 with the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. In other words, the third resistance member 68 is configured such that the engagement force required for the engagement of the locking plate 14 and the third locking plate fixing member 34 with the fourth locking plate fixing member 36 does not increase. In the illustrated embodiment, the third resistance member 68 is spaced apart from the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is fixed to the pedal body 22 by the third locking plate fixing member 34 and the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. Additionally, the third resistance member 68 is configured to contact the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is twisted during the disengagement operation of the locking plate 14 with the third locking plate fixing member 34 and the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. Alternatively, the third resistance member 68 may be configured to contact the locking piece 14 during engagement, but the third resistance during engagement may be configured to be smaller than the third resistance during disengagement.

[0177] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 25As seen, the third resistance member 68 includes a third locking contact member 68A and a third elastic member 68B. The third locking contact member 68A is configured to contact the locking piece 14 and move against the elastic force of the third elastic member 68B during a disengagement operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from at least the third locking piece retaining member 34. Preferably, the third locking contact member 68A is configured to contact the locking piece 14 and move against the elastic force of the third elastic member 68B during a disengagement operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from the third locking piece retaining member 34 and the fourth locking piece retaining member 36. More specifically, the third locking contact member 68A is configured to contact a second lateral side surface of the locking piece 14 during the disengagement operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from the third locking piece retaining member 34 and the fourth locking piece retaining member 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the third locking contact member 68A includes a third protrusion 68A1 arranged on the path of the locking piece 14 when the locking piece 14 is twisted during the disengagement operation. Due to this contact between the locking plate 14 and the third protrusion 68A1, the third locking plate contact member 68A moves against the elastic force of the third elastic member 68B during the disengagement operation of the locking plate 14. In other words, the third protrusion 68A1 moves against the elastic force of the third elastic member 68B during the disengagement operation of the locking plate 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the third protrusion 68A1 of the third locking plate contact member 68A is biased by the third elastic member 68B to rotate toward the pedal shaft 20. That is, the third protrusion 68A1 of the third locking plate contact member 68A is biased to approach the pedal shaft 20. One arm of the torsion spring of the third elastic member 68B biases the first locking plate fixing member 24, and the other arm biases the third locking plate contact member 68A. The third locking plate contact member 68A contacts the first pivot pin 40 and is positioned in the circumferential direction with respect to the first support member 60.

[0178] In the illustrated embodiment, the third elastic member 68B includes a torsion spring. Here, the third elastic member 68B includes a first biasing member 50. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, a single torsion spring is used for both the first biasing member 50 and the third elastic member 68B. In the illustrated embodiment, a third locking member 34 is disposed between the third resistance member 68 and the third biasing member 54. Alternatively, a separate torsion spring can be provided for each of the first biasing member 50 and the third elastic member 68B.

[0179] like Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 25As shown, the bicycle pedal 12 further includes a fourth resistance member 70. The fourth resistance member 70 is disposed to the pedal body 22 via a second support member 62. A second latch retaining member 26 is disposed between the second resistance member 66 and the fourth resistance member 70. The fourth resistance member 70 is configured to apply a fourth resistance to the latch 14 in addition to a fourth biasing force during a disengagement operation in which the latch 14 disengages from at least the fourth latch retaining member 36. Preferably, the fourth resistance member 70 is configured to apply a fourth resistance to the latch 14 in addition to a fourth biasing force during a disengagement operation in which the latch 14 disengages from the third latch retaining member 34 and the fourth latch retaining member 36. Therefore, the fourth resistance member 70 increases the disengagement force required for the latch 14 to disengage from the third latch retaining member 34 and the fourth latch retaining member 36.

[0180] In addition, such as Figure 25 As shown, the fourth resistance member 70 is configured not to apply a fourth resistance to the third locking plate fixing member 34. Furthermore, the fourth resistance member 70 is configured not to apply a fourth resistance to the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. More specifically, the fourth resistance member 70 is configured not to apply a fourth resistance to the locking plate 14 during engagement operations with the third locking plate fixing member 34 and the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. In other words, the fourth resistance member 70 is configured not to increase the engagement force required to engage the locking plate 14 with the third locking plate fixing member 34 and the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth resistance member 70 is spaced apart from the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is fixed to the pedal body 22 by the third locking plate fixing member 34 and the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. Additionally, the fourth resistance member 70 is configured to contact the locking plate 14 when the locking plate 14 is twisted during disengagement operations from the third locking plate fixing member 34 and the fourth locking plate fixing member 36. Alternatively, the fourth resistance member 70 may be configured to contact the locking plate 14 during engagement, but the fourth resistance during engagement may be configured to be smaller than the fourth resistance during disengagement.

[0181] In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 25As shown, the fourth resistance member 70 includes a fourth locking contact member 70A and a fourth elastic member 70B. The fourth locking contact member 70A is configured to contact the locking piece 14 and resist movement against the elastic force of the fourth elastic member 70B during an operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from at least the fourth locking piece retaining member 36. Preferably, the fourth locking contact member 70A is configured to contact the locking piece 14 and resist movement against the elastic force of the fourth elastic member 70B during an operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from the third locking piece retaining member 34 and the fourth locking piece retaining member 36. More specifically, the fourth locking contact member 70A is configured to contact a first lateral side surface of the locking piece 14 during a disengagement operation in which the locking piece 14 disengages from the third locking piece retaining member 34 and the fourth locking piece retaining member 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth locking contact member 70A includes a fourth protrusion 70A1 arranged on the path of the locking piece 14 when the locking piece 14 is twisted during the disengagement operation. Due to this contact between the locking plate 14 and the fourth protrusion 70A1, the fourth locking plate contact member 70A moves against the elastic force of the fourth elastic member 70B during the disengagement operation of the locking plate 14. In other words, the fourth protrusion 70A1 moves against the elastic force of the fourth elastic member 70B during the disengagement operation of the locking plate 14. The aforementioned locking plate contact members 64A, 66A, 68A, and 70A can be replaced by the arms of torsion springs. More specifically, the protrusions 64A1, 66A1, 68A1, and 70A1 of the aforementioned locking plate contact members 64A, 66A, 68A, and 70A can be replaced by the arms of torsion springs. That is, the locking plate contact members 64A, 66A, 68A, and 70A can be omitted. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth protrusion 70A1 of the fourth locking plate contact member 70A is biased by the fourth elastic member 70B to rotate toward the side of the pedal shaft 20. That is, the fourth protrusion 70A1 of the fourth locking contact member 70A is biased to approach the pedal shaft 20. One arm of the torsion spring of the fourth elastic member 70B biases the second locking retaining member 26, and the other arm biases the fourth locking contact member 70A. The fourth locking contact member 70A contacts the second pivot pin 42 and is positioned in the circumferential direction with respect to the second support member 62.

[0182] In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth elastic member 70B includes a torsion spring. Here, the fourth elastic member 70B includes a second biasing member 52. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, a single torsion spring is used for both the second biasing member 52 and the fourth elastic member 70B. In the illustrated embodiment, a fourth locking member 36 is disposed between the fourth resistance member 70 and the fourth biasing member 56. Alternatively, a separate torsion spring can be provided for each of the second biasing member 52 and the fourth elastic member 70B.

[0183] In the illustrated embodiment, such as Figure 25As shown, during the disengagement operation, the locking piece 14 simultaneously contacts the third protrusion 68A1 of the third resistance member 68 and the fourth protrusion 70A1 of the fourth resistance member 70. Alternatively, the locking piece 14 may sequentially contact the third protrusion 68A1 of the third resistance member 68 and the fourth protrusion 70A1 of the fourth resistance member 70 during the disengagement operation. Furthermore, alternatively, one of the third resistance member 68 and the fourth resistance member 70 may be omitted if desired and / or as desired.

[0184] In understanding the scope of this invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless specifically stated otherwise, the terms "part," "segment," "section," "component," or "element" used in the singular may have a dual meaning of a single part or multiple parts.

[0185] As used herein, the following directional terms, “frame-facing side,” “non-frame-facing side,” “forward,” “backward,” “front,” “rear,” “upward,” “downward,” “above,” “below,” “facing upward,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “longitudinal,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “lateral,” and any other similar directional terms, refer to the orientation of a bicycle in an upright riding position with pedals. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe bicycle pedals should be understood relative to an upright riding posture with pedals on a horizontal surface. The terms “left” and “right” are used to indicate: “right” when viewed from the rear of the bicycle with reference to the right, and “left” when viewed from the rear of the bicycle with reference to the left.

[0186] As used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired choices. For example, if the number of choices is two, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "two of the two choices." As another example, if the number of choices is equal to or greater than three, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "any combination of equal to or greater than two choices." Additionally, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "one or both of them."

[0187] Furthermore, it should be understood that while the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of the invention, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa.

[0188] The term “attached” or “attached” as used herein includes configurations where one element is directly fixed to another element by direct adhesion; where an element is indirectly fixed to another element by attaching it to an intermediate member, which in turn is adhered to another element; and where one element and another are integral, meaning that one element is essentially part of the other. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as “joint,” “connect,” “link,” “install,” “adhere,” “fix,” and their derivatives. Finally, the degree terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and “generally” as used herein signify a deviation of the modified term that does not significantly change the final result.

[0189] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless specifically stated otherwise, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless specifically stated otherwise, components shown as directly connected or in contact with each other may have an intermediate structure between them, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. The function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa, unless specifically stated otherwise. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. Not all advantages must occur simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique to the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied in these features. Therefore, the above description of embodiments provided according to the invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention to the definition provided by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A bicycle pedal, comprising: A pedal shaft having a rotation center axis; A foot pedal body, the foot pedal body being rotatably supported about the pedal shaft to rotate about the rotation center axis of the pedal shaft, the foot pedal body having a first foot pedal surface and a second foot pedal surface; A pedal body, the pedal body being rotatably supported about the pedal axis to rotate about the rotation center axis, and pivoting about the rotation center axis relative to the pedal body; A first locking plate fixing member is pivotally supported on the pedal body between a first locking plate holding position and a first locking plate non-holding position, so as to pivot about a first pivot axis offset from the rotation center axis; The second locking plate fixing member is pivotally supported on the pedal body between the second locking plate holding position and the second locking plate non-holding position, so as to pivot about a second pivot axis that is offset from the rotation center axis and the first pivot axis; as well as At least one of the first resistance member and the second resistance member; in The first resistance member is disposed on the pedal body, the first resistance member being configured to not apply a first resistance to the locking plate during engagement operation of the locking plate with the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member, and the first resistance member being configured to apply the first resistance to the locking plate during disengagement engagement of the locking plate from the first locking plate fixing member; The second resistance member is disposed on the pedal body, the second resistance member being configured to not apply a second resistance to the locking plate during engagement operation of the locking plate with the first locking plate fixing member and the second locking plate fixing member, and the second resistance member being configured to apply the second resistance to the locking plate during disengagement operation of the locking plate disengaging from the second locking plate fixing member.

2. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1, further comprising: A first biasing member biases the first locking piece fixing member about the first pivot axis toward the first locking piece holding position. The second biasing member biases the second locking plate fixing member about the second pivot axis toward the second locking plate holding position.

3. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The first locking plate fixing member includes a first locking plate engaging surface that is spaced apart from the first stepping surface and the stepping body, and The second locking plate fixing member includes a second locking plate engagement surface that is spaced apart from the first stepping surface and the stepping body.

4. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The first locking tab retaining member further includes a first inclined surface, the first inclined surface being arranged to receive a locking tab clamping force, such that the first locking tab retaining member pivots about the first pivot axis during engagement operation of the locking tab with the first locking tab retaining member. With the first locking plate fixing member in a neutral, stationary position, the first inclined surface is inclined about a reference plane that completely encompasses the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis. The second locking tab retaining member further includes a second inclined surface arranged to receive locking tab clamping force, such that during engagement of the locking tab with the second locking tab retaining member, the second locking tab retaining member pivots about the second pivot axis. When the second locking plate fixing member is in a neutral and static position, the second inclined surface is inclined about the reference surface.

5. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A third locking plate fixing member, the third locking plate fixing member being pivotally supported on the pedal body to pivot about the first pivot axis between a third locking plate holding position and a third locking plate non-holding position; and A fourth locking plate fixing member is pivotally disposed on the pedal body to pivot about the second pivot axis between a fourth locking plate holding position and a fourth locking plate non-holding position.

6. The bicycle pedal according to claim 5, further comprising: A third biasing member biases the third locking piece fixing member about the first pivot axis toward the third locking piece holding position. A fourth biasing member biases the fourth locking plate fixing member toward the fourth locking plate holding position about the second pivot axis.

7. The bicycle pedal according to claim 5, wherein The third locking plate fixing member includes a third locking plate engaging surface spaced outward from the pedal body relative to the second pedal surface, and The fourth locking plate fixing member includes a fourth locking plate engagement surface that is spaced outward from the foot pedal body relative to the second foot pedal surface.

8. The bicycle pedal according to claim 5, wherein The third locking tab retaining member further includes a third inclined surface arranged to receive locking tab clamping force, such that the third locking tab retaining member pivots about the first pivot axis during engagement operation of the locking tab with the third locking tab retaining member. The fourth locking plate retaining member further includes a fourth inclined surface arranged to receive a locking plate clamping force, such that the fourth locking plate retaining member pivots about the second pivot axis during engagement operation of the locking plate with the fourth locking plate retaining member.

9. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: A biasing element, operably disposed between the pedal body and the pedal body, for biasing the pedal body relative to the pedal body to a neutral rest position.

10. The bicycle pedal according to claim 9, wherein The first locking member is configured such that, when the pedal body is in the neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body, it at least partially protrudes from the pedal body relative to the first pedal surface. The second locking member is configured to protrude at least partially from the first footing surface when the pedal body is in the neutral stationary position relative to the footing body.

11. The bicycle pedal according to claim 5, further comprising: A biasing element, operably disposed between the pedal body and the pedal body, for biasing the pedal body relative to the pedal body to a neutral rest position.

12. The bicycle pedal according to claim 11, wherein The third locking member is configured such that, when the pedal body is in the neutral, stationary position relative to the pedal body, it at least partially protrudes from the pedal body relative to the second pedal surface. The fourth locking member is configured such that, when the pedal body is in the neutral stationary position relative to the pedal body, it protrudes at least partially from the pedal body relative to the second pedal surface.

13. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein When viewed along a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, the axis of rotation is positioned between the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis.

14. The bicycle pedal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The rotation center axis, the first pivot axis, and the second pivot axis are parallel to each other.

15. The bicycle pedal according to claim 14, wherein The rotation center axis, the first pivot axis, and the second pivot axis are all set within a single reference plane.

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