Operating device for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

An operating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The operating device substantially includes a base member, an operating member, and a biasing member. The base member is configured to be disposed to a handlebar and has a central axis defining an axial direction and a radial direction. The operating member is configured to rotate about a central axis relative to the base member. The biasing member biases the operating member in a direction that is not perpendicular to the axial direction. The operating member includes a plurality of positioning abutment portions. The biasing member is configured to selectively engage the positioning abutment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an operating device for a human powered vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Bicycles are typically provided with one or more bicycle operating devices for operating one or more bicycle components. Examples of some of these bicycle components include gear shifting devices (e.g., derailleurs or internal gear hubs), suspensions, and seatposts. Bicycle operating devices are typically provided on the bicycle at a location where the rider can easily operate the bicycle operating devices (e.g., on the bicycle handlebars). Bicycle operating devices are typically connected to the bicycle components using, for example, Bowden-type control cables. Summary of the invention

[0003] In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of an operating device for a human-powered vehicle. The term "human-powered vehicle" as used herein refers to a vehicle that can be propelled by at least human-powered driving force to generate propulsion, but does not include vehicles that use only driving forces other than human power. In particular, vehicles that use only internal combustion engines as driving forces are not included in human-powered vehicles. It is generally assumed that human-powered vehicles are compact, lightweight vehicles that sometimes do not require a license for driving on public roads. The number of wheels on a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, and recumbent bicycles, as well as electric-assisted bicycles (electric bicycles).

[0004] In view of the state of the known technology and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The operating device substantially comprises a base member, an operating member and a biasing member. The base member is configured to be arranged to a handlebar and has a central axis defining an axial direction and a radial direction. The operating member is configured to rotate about the central axis relative to the base member. The biasing member biases the operating member in a direction that is not perpendicular to the axial direction. The operating member comprises a plurality of positioning abutments. The biasing member is configured to selectively engage the positioning abutments.

[0005] With the operating device according to the first aspect, the operating device can be relatively more compact in the radial direction and / or in the axial direction.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the first aspect is configured so that the biasing member is attached to the base member.

[0007] With the operating device according to the second aspect, the biasing member can be easily provided in the operating device, and the assembling process can be performed more easily.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the first or second aspect is configured such that the base member includes a first axial abutment and a second axial abutment, and the operating member is axially disposed between the first and second axial abutments to restrict axial movement of the operating member relative to the base member.

[0009] With the operating device according to the third aspect, it is possible to reliably restrict movement of the operating member relative to the base member in the axial direction.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the third aspect is configured so that the operating member includes a first contact surface configured to contact the first axial abutment. The first axial abutment includes an annular surface, and the first contact surface annularly contacts the first axial abutment.

[0011] With the operating device according to the fourth aspect, the first contact surface of the operating member can firmly contact the first axial abutment portion of the base member.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the fourth aspect is configured so that the first axial abutment portion includes an annular surface, and the first contact surface intermittently contacts the first axial abutment portion.

[0013] With the operating device according to the fifth aspect, the amount of contact between the first contact surface of the operating member and the first axial abutment portion of the base member can be reduced, and therefore, the operating member can be rotated more easily.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect is configured so that the first axial abutment includes an annular surface, and the first contact surface contacts the annular surface of the first axial abutment by less than 360 degrees.

[0015] With the operating device according to the sixth aspect, the amount of contact between the first contact surface of the operating member and the first axial abutment portion of the base member can be reduced, and therefore, the operating member can be rotated more easily.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect is configured so that at least one of the first axial abutment portion and the first contact surface includes a waveform.

[0017] With the operating device according to the seventh aspect, the amount of contact between the first contact surface of the operating member and the first axial abutment portion of the base member can be reduced, and therefore, the operating member can be rotated more easily.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured so that the base member includes a first base portion and a second base portion attached to the first base portion.

[0019] With the operating device according to the eighth aspect, the base member can be constructed more easily, and the operating member can be coupled to the base member more easily.

[0020] In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the eighth aspect is configured so that the first base portion includes a tubular portion that rotatably supports the operating member.

[0021] With the operating device according to the ninth aspect, the operating member can be easily and reliably rotated relative to the base member.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the eighth aspect or the ninth aspect is configured so that the first base portion includes a first axial abutment, and the second base portion includes a second axial abutment. The operating member is axially disposed between the first axial abutment and the second axial abutment to limit axial movement of the operating member relative to the base member.

[0023] With the operating device according to the tenth aspect, movement of the operating member in the axial direction relative to the base member can be reliably restricted.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the eighth to tenth aspects is configured such that the first base portion is attached to the second base portion by a snap-fit ​​connection structure.

[0025] With the operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the first base portion can be easily attached to the second base portion.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects is configured so that the second base portion includes a cable adjuster.

[0027] With the operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the tension in the cable can be adjusted as needed and / or desired.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured so that the operating member includes a rotating body and a grip body.

[0029] With the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the operating member can be more easily constructed and coupled to the base member.

[0030] In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect is configured so that the operating member further includes a hand grip portion composed of an elastomer material.

[0031] With the operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the operating member can be gripped more comfortably.

[0032] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect or the fourteenth aspect is configured so that the rotating body includes a cable attachment structure.

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

[0034] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth aspects is configured so that the rotating body and the grip body are configured to move together in response to the operating member moving about the center axis in the first operating direction.

[0035] With the operation device according to the sixteenth aspect, when the grip body is moved in the first operation direction about the central axis, the rotation of the grip body can be reliably transmitted from the grip body to the rotating body.

[0036] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the grip body is configured to move relative to the rotating body in response to the operating member moving about the central axis in a second operating direction opposite to the first operating direction.

[0037] With the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, when the grip body is unintentionally moved a small amount around the central axis in the second operating direction, unintentional movement of the rotating body is prevented.

[0038] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect is configured so that the operating member includes an additional biasing member provided between the grip body and the rotating body to bias the rotating body in the second operating direction relative to the grip body.

[0039] With the operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, the grip body can be reliably held in the ready position so that the rotating body is rotated about the central axis in the first operating direction.

[0040] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect or the eighteenth aspect is configured so that the additional biasing member is a compression spring.

[0041] With the operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, the relative position between the grip portion and the rotating body can be easily maintained using the compression spring.

[0042] According to the twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to the eighteenth aspect or the nineteenth aspect is configured so that the rotating body includes a first stop surface and the gripping body includes a second stop surface. The additional biasing member biases the rotating body so that the first stop surface contacts the second stop surface when the operating member is in a stationary position.

[0043] With the operating device according to the twentieth aspect, the relative position between the grip portion and the rotating body can be reliably established.

[0044] According to a twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of aspects 17 to 20 is configured so that the positioning abutment is circumferentially arranged on the rotating body relative to the central axis. The gripping body includes a release profile configured to deflect the biasing member in the axial direction to disengage the biasing member from the positioning abutment during relative movement of the gripping body relative to the rotating body in response to the gripping body moving in the second operating direction.

[0045] With the operating device according to the twenty-first aspect, the user can easily and reliably switch the operating device between a plurality of positions.

[0046] According to a twenty-second aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-first aspects is configured so that the biasing member is a leaf spring having a detent portion configured to selectively engage the positioning abutment.

[0047] With the operating device according to the twenty-second aspect, the biasing member can provide an axially directed biasing force and can hold the rotating body in one of the plurality of predetermined positions.

[0048] According to a twenty-third aspect of the present disclosure, the operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the twenty-second aspect is configured so that the base member includes a handlebar mounting structure.

[0049] With the operating device according to the twenty-third aspect, the operating device can be mounted to the handlebar so that a user who grips the handlebar can easily operate the operating device.

[0050] Moreover, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed operating device will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the operating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this original disclosure.

[0052] Figure 1is a perspective view of a portion of a handlebar of a human-powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) equipped with the operating device according to the first embodiment.

[0053] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An enlarged top view of a portion of the handlebar and operating device is shown.

[0054] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 An enlarged bottom view of a portion of the handlebar and operating device is shown.

[0055] Figure 4 yes Figures 1 to 3 An enlarged front view of a portion of the handlebar and operating device is shown.

[0056] Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 The section line 5-5 is observed Figures 1 to 4 An outboard end view of a portion of the handlebar and operating device shown.

[0057] Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The section line 6-6 is observed Figures 1 to 4 An inboard end view of a portion of the handlebar and operating device is shown.

[0058] Figure 7 yes Figures 1 to 6 A first partial exploded view of the operating device is shown.

[0059] Figure 8 yes Figures 1 to 7 A second partial exploded view of the operating device is shown.

[0060] Fig. 9 yes Figures 1 to 7 A first exploded view of a base member of the operating device is shown.

[0061] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A second exploded view of the base member of the operating device is shown.

[0062] Fig.11 yes Figures 1 to 7 A perspective view of the biasing member and base member of the operating device is shown.

[0063] Fig.12 It is along Figure 4 The section line 12-12 is observed Figures 1 to 7 A cross-sectional view of the operating device shown.

[0064] Fig.13 yes Figures 1 to 7 An outside end view of the operating device is shown with the grip removed.

[0065] Fig.14 yes Figures 1 to 7 An enlarged front view of the operating device is shown with a portion of the base member cut away to illustrate a first rest position of the operating device in which the cable has been fully released.

[0066] Fig.15 yes Figures 1 to 7 The operating device shown is similar to Fig.14 An enlarged front view of a base member with a portion of the base member cut away to show the gripping body and the rotating body from Fig.14 The first static position of moves together in the cable pulling direction.

[0067] Fig.16 yes Figures 1 to 7 The operating device shown is similar to Fig.14 and Fig.15 An enlarged front view of a base member with a portion of the base member broken away to show a second rest position in which the cable has moved one position in the cable pulling direction.

[0068] Fig.17 yes Figures 1 to 7 A partial side view of a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body of an operating device is shown, wherein the gripping body and the rotating body are in a static position.

[0069] Fig.18 is a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body similar to Fig.17 A partial side view of the gripping body, but in which the gripping body has been moved relative to the rotating body Fig.17 The cable release operation is initiated by rotating the cable from a stationary position to a second operating direction.

[0070] Fig.19 is a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body similar to Fig.17 and Fig.18 , but wherein the gripping body has been moved relative to the rotating body from Fig.18 The position of is further rotated in the second operating direction.

[0071] Fig. 20 is a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body similar to Figures 17 to 19 , but wherein the gripping body has been moved relative to the rotating body from Fig.19 The position of is further rotated in the second operating direction.

[0072] Fig.21 is a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body similar to Figures 17 to 20, but wherein the gripping body has been moved relative to the rotating body from Fig. 20 The position of is further rotated in the second operating direction.

[0073] Fig. 22 is a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body similar to Figures 17 to 21 , but wherein the gripping body has been moved relative to the rotating body from Fig.21 The position of is further rotated in the second operating direction.

[0074] Fig.23 is a biasing member, a gripping body and a rotating body similar to Figures 17 to 22 A partial side view of the gripping body, but in which the gripping body has been moved relative to the rotating body Fig.21 The position of the rotating body is further rotated in the second operating direction, and the rotating body moves in the first operating direction to complete the cable releasing operation.

[0075] Fig.24 is a top view of an operating device according to a second embodiment.

[0076] Fig.25 According to the first modification Fig.24 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of a grip body of an operating device is shown.

[0077] Fig.26 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a grip body according to another modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is provided for illustration only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0079] First reference Figures 1 to 6 , an operating device 10 according to one illustrated embodiment is shown. The operating device 10 is disposed on a human-powered vehicle V. The operating device 10 is configured to be mounted to a handlebar H for operation by a user. The operating device 10 is configured to be operably coupled to a human-powered vehicle component VC. The operating device 10 is particularly configured to be used with a human-powered vehicle having a flat handlebar. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, the operating device 10 is configured to be operably coupled to the human-powered vehicle component VC via a control cable 12. Figure 1As shown, the control cable 12 is a conventional bicycle operating cable having an outer shell 12a covering an inner wire 12b. In other words, the control cable 12 is a Bowden-type cable in which the inner wire 12b is slidably received within the outer shell 12a. The operating device 10 operates the human-powered vehicle component VC by selectively pulling and releasing the inner wire 12b. However, the operating device 10 may be configured to operate one or more electrical switches to operate an electric vehicle component.

[0081] In the case where the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle, the operating device 10 is configured as a shifter for controlling the gear position of a transmission device, such as a derailleur or an internal gear hub. However, the operating device 10 can be configured as a bicycle operating device for operating other types of components (e.g., suspension devices, seat posts, etc.) as needed and / or desired. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 10 has a plurality of predetermined positions or steps, as described below. When the human-powered vehicle component VC is a rear derailleur, the predetermined positions or steps of the operating device 10 correspond to the gear positions of the rear transmission device (e.g., rear derailleur or rear internal gear hub).

[0082] like Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the operating device 10 basically includes a base member 14 and an operating member 16. Here, the base member 14 is configured to be provided to the handlebar H. The base member 14 has a central axis A defining an axial direction X and a radial direction Y. In a state where the operating device 10 is mounted to the handlebar H, the central axis A of the base member 14 substantially coincides with the central longitudinal axis of the handlebar H. The operating member 16 is configured to rotate relative to the base member 14 around the central axis A. In other words, the operating member 16 is also configured to rotate around the handlebar H. Here, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the handlebar H has a hand grip G provided to the outer end of the handlebar H. The operating device 10 is preferably provided near the inner end of the hand grip G.

[0083] like Figure 6 As shown, the base member 14 includes a handlebar mounting structure 18. The handlebar mounting structure 18 is a conventional pipe clamp that constitutes an embodiment of a handlebar mounting member. Here, the handlebar mounting structure 18 includes a pipe portion 20 and a fixing bolt 22. The fixing bolt 22 is screwed into the threaded hole of the pipe portion 20 so that the fixing bolt 22 can be tightened downward to contact the handlebar H and pull the pipe portion 20 toward the handlebar H. In this way, the handlebar mounting structure 18 is fixed to the handlebar H. Here, the pipe portion 20 is also connected to the base member 14 by the fixing bolt 22. Therefore, the base member 14 is fixed to the handlebar H via the handlebar mounting structure 18. The pipe portion 20 is preferably made of a rigid material such as a metal material or a reinforced resin material. Although the pipe portion 20 is shown as a one-piece integral member, the pipe portion 20 can be made of several parts. Moreover, other pipe clamps can be used instead of the handlebar mounting structure 18, and these other pipe clamps are configured to fix the base member 14 to the handlebar H.

[0084] like Figure 1 As shown, here, the operating device 10 is configured to be arranged on the right side of the handlebar H, for example, by means of a handlebar mounting structure 18, so that the operating member 16 can be operated by the rider's right hand. Alternatively, the operating device 10 can be configured as a mirror image and arranged on the left side of the handlebar H. The handlebar attachment 12 is configured to be mounted to the handlebar H in a conventional manner.

[0085] like Figure 1 As shown, here, the operating device 10 further includes a cable adjuster 24 for adjusting the tension in the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 in a conventional manner. The cable adjuster 24 is adjustably attached to the base member 12. The cable adjuster 24 extends from the base member 14 to receive the control cable 12. In particular, the cable adjuster 24 is threadedly connected to the base member 14. The cable adjuster 24 causes small changes in the tension of the inner wire 12b by increasing or decreasing the effective length of the base member 12. In other words, the cable adjuster 24 is configured to adjust the contact point of one end of the housing 12a relative to the base member 14 of the operating device 10. The cable adjuster 24 is sometimes referred to as a barrel adjuster. The cable adjuster 24 is a conventional part well known in the field of human-powered vehicles and will not be discussed in further detail herein.

[0086] Here, for example, the base member 14 has a two-piece structure. For example, the base member 14 includes a first base portion 30 and a second base portion 32 attached to the first base portion 30. The first base portion 30 and the second base portion 32 are hard rigid components made of suitable materials (e.g., hard plastic or lightweight metal). In the illustrated embodiment, the first base portion 30 is attached to the second base portion 32 by a snap-fit ​​connection structure 34. In particular, the snap-fit ​​connection structure 34 includes a plurality of tabs 36 provided to the first base portion 30 and a plurality of openings 38 provided to the second base portion 32. However, the base member 14 is not limited to the structure shown, but may have a variety of configurations as needed and / or desired. In other words, the first base portion 30 and the second base portion 32 can be connected together in various ways (e.g., screws).

[0087] Basically, the first base portion 30 includes a tubular portion 40 that rotatably supports the operating member 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the base member 14 includes a first axial abutment 41 and a second axial abutment 42. In particular, the first base portion 30 includes the first axial abutment 41, and the second base portion 32 includes the second axial abutment 42. The operating member 16 is axially disposed between the first axial abutment 41 and the second axial abutment 42 to limit the axial movement of the operating member 16 relative to the base member 14. The operating member is rotatably supported on the tubular portion 40, between the first axial abutment 41 and the second axial abutment 42.

[0088] Here, the handlebar mounting structure 18 is attached to the second base portion 32 by means of the fixing bolt 22. Thus, the second base portion 32 is fixed to the handlebar H via the handlebar mounting structure 18. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the second base portion 32 includes the cable adjuster 24.

[0089] Now the main reference Figures 9 to 12 The operating member 16 is discussed in more detail. As described above, the operating member 16 is rotatably supported on the base member 14. In particular, the operating member 16 is configured to rotate in a first operating direction D1 around the central axis A. In addition, the operating member 16 is configured to rotate in a second operating direction D2 around the central axis A. The second operating direction D2 is opposite to the first operating direction D1. When the operating member 16 rotates in the first operating direction D1, the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 is pulled toward the base member 14 to perform a cable pulling operation. In other words, the first operating direction D1 corresponds to the cable pulling direction in the illustrated embodiment. On the other hand, when the operating member 16 rotates in the second operating direction D2, the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 is released from the base member 14 to perform a cable releasing operation. In other words, the second operating direction D2 corresponds to the cable releasing direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0090] In addition, as described above, the axial movement of the operating member 16 relative to the base member 14 is restricted. Preferably, the operating member 16 does not move in the axial direction X relative to the base member 14. The axial direction X includes Fig.12 The first axial direction X1 and the second axial direction X2 shown. In particular, here, the operating member 16 includes a first contact surface 44. The first contact surface 44 is configured to contact the first axial abutment 41. The operating member 16 includes a second contact surface 46. The second contact surface 46 is configured to contact the second axial abutment 42. In this way, the axial movement of the operating member 16 relative to the base member 14 is restricted. In the embodiment shown, the first axial abutment 41 includes an annular surface 41a. The annular surface 41a of the base member 14 faces the first contact surface 44 of the operating member 16 in the second axial direction X2. The first contact surface 44 is also an annular surface, which faces the annular surface 41a of the base member 14 in the first axial direction X1. In this way, the first contact surface 44 contacts the first axial abutment 41 in an annular manner.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating member 16 basically includes a rotating body 50 and a gripping body 52. ​​The rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 are rotatably supported on the tubular portion 40. Basically, the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 are arranged adjacent to each other on the tubular portion 40 along the axial direction X. Here, the operating member 16 further includes a hand grip 54. The hand grip 54 is composed of an elastomeric material. The hand grip 54 is arranged on the gripping body 52 to provide the user with a more comfortable grip of the operating member 16.

[0092] As described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating member 16 is configured to selectively pull and release the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 in response to the rotational movement of the operating member 16 relative to the base member 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotating body 50 includes a cable attachment structure 56. The cable attachment structure 56 is configured to engage a joint 12c, which is attached to the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12. In this way, the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 is attached to the rotating body 50. Therefore, when the rotating body 50 rotates in the first operating direction D1, the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 is pulled toward the base member 14 to perform a cable pulling operation. On the other hand, when the rotating body 50 rotates in the second operating direction D2, the inner wire 12b of the control cable 12 is released from the base member 14 to perform a cable releasing operation.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes a biasing member 60. Basically, the biasing member 60 biases the operating member 16 in a direction that is not perpendicular to the axial direction X. Here, the biasing member 60 biases the operating member 16 in a direction parallel to the axial direction X or substantially parallel to the axial direction X. The biasing member 60 is also configured to engage the base member 14 and the operating member 16 to selectively establish a plurality of predetermined positions of the operating member 16 relative to the base member 14. In other words, the operating member 16 can be temporarily held in any one of a plurality of predetermined positions by the biasing member 60. In the case where the operating device 10 is used as a shifter for changing the gear position of a transmission device (e.g., a derailleur), these predetermined positions may be referred to as predetermined gear positions.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 60 is attached to the base member 14. For example, the biasing member 60 is attached to the base member 14 by a fastener 62. Here, the fastener 62 is a pin frictionally held in the hole 32a of the second base portion 32. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 60 is a leaf spring. The fastener 62 is preferably configured to prevent the biasing member 60 from tilting during the operation of the operating member 16. The biasing member 60 has a first leg 60a, a second leg 60b and a curved connecting portion 60c. The curved connecting portion 60c connects the first leg 60a and the second leg 60b. Preferably, the biasing member 60 is a one-piece member made of a suitable material such as a metal material. The curved connecting portion 60c is configured to be elastically bent so that during the operation of the operating member 16, the second leg 60b can move toward the first leg 60a. Here, the first leg 60a of the biasing member 60 is arranged in the recess 32b of the second base portion 32. The fastener 62 holds the first leg 60a of the biasing member 60 in the recess 32b. Therefore, during operation of the operating member 16, the second leg 60b moves toward the first leg 60a due to the bending of the connecting portion 60c.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating member 16 includes a plurality of positioning abutments 64. Here, these positioning abutments 64 are arranged on the rotating body 50. These positioning abutments 64 are arranged circumferentially on the rotating body 50 relative to the central axis A. The rotating body 50 of the operating member 16 further includes a plurality of inclined surfaces 66. One of these inclined surfaces 66 is associated with one of these positioning abutments 64 to form a plurality of ratchet teeth 68. The biasing member 60 is configured to selectively engage the positioning abutments 64. Specifically, here, the biasing member 60 is a leaf spring having a pawl portion 60d configured to selectively engage the positioning abutments 64. The pawl portion 60d is a curved portion located at the free end of the second leg 60b. The pawl portion 60d has a generally V-shape, wherein the apex of the V-shape is configured to selectively engage the positioning abutments 64 to selectively establish a predetermined position of the operating member 16.

[0096] The inclined surface 66 is configured so that when the rotating body 50 rotates in the first operating direction D1, the pawl portion 60d can move from one of the positioning abutments 64 to the next adjacent positioning abutment in the positioning abutments 64. In addition, the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 are configured to move together in response to the operation member 16 moving about the central axis A in the first operating direction D1. In other words, the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 rotate together in the first operating direction D1, causing the pawl portion 60d to pass over the ratchet teeth 68. On the other hand, the positioning abutments 64 and the inclined surfaces 66 are configured so that the pawl portion 60d prevents the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 from simply rotating in the second operating direction D2.

[0097] Specifically, the grip body 52 is configured to move relative to the rotating body 50 in response to the operating member 16 moving in the second operating direction D2 around the central axis A. Specifically, the operating member 16 includes an additional biasing member 70. The additional biasing member 70 is disposed between the grip body 52 and the rotating body 50 to bias the rotating body 50 in the second operating direction D2 relative to the grip body 52. ​​Here, for example, the additional biasing member 70 is a compression spring. The additional biasing member 70 maintains the grip body 52 in a stationary position relative to the rotating body 50, wherein the operating member 16 is in the stationary position. More specifically, the rotating body 50 includes a first stop surface 72, and the grip body 52 includes a second stop surface 74. The additional biasing member 70 biases the rotating body 50 so that the first stop surface 72 contacts the second stop surface 74 in a state where the operating member 16 is in the stationary position. In this way, when the grip body 52 moves less than a predetermined amount in the second operating direction D2 around the central axis A, unintentional movement of the rotating body 50 is prevented.

[0098] The term "rest position" as used herein refers to a state in which a movable part (e.g., an operating member 16) remains stationary without requiring intervention of a user or other external force (e.g., holding the operating member 16) to establish a state corresponding to the rest position. Therefore, the term "rest position" may also be referred to as a non-operating position or a neutral position. The terms "operating position" and "actuated position" as used herein refer to a position in which a movable part has been moved from a rest position by a user.

[0099] refer to Figures 14 to 16 , showing the cable pulling operation. Here, the pawl portion 60d is configured to pass over the ratchet teeth 68 when the grip body 52 rotates in the first operating direction D1. As described above, when the grip body 52 rotates in the first operating direction D1, the rotating body 50 and the grip body 52 rotate together. Fig.14As shown, the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 contacts one of the positioning abutments 64 to maintain the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 in their stationary positions. Fig.15 As shown, the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 rotate together in the first operating direction D1, so that the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 engages one of the plurality of cam surfaces 76a of the release profile 76 and deflects in the second axial direction X2. Fig.16 As shown, the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 crosses over one of the previously engaged positioning abutments 64, so that the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 moves in the first axial direction X1. Fig.16 , the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 now move together in the first operating direction D1 , and the pawl portion 60 d contacts the next adjacent positioning abutment 64 .

[0100] refer to Figures 17 to 23 , showing a cable release operation. Here, the grip body 52 moves in the second operating direction D2 to perform the cable release operation. In particular, the grip body 52 includes a release profile 76. The release profile 76 is configured to deflect the biasing member 60 in the axial direction X (i.e., the second axial direction X2 in this embodiment) during the relative movement of the grip body 52 relative to the rotating body 50 in response to the grip body 52 moving in the second operating direction D2, so as to disengage the biasing member 60 from the positioning adjacent portion 64. Here, the release profile 76 includes a plurality of cam surfaces 76a. Fig.17 In the embodiment of the present invention, the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 contacts one of the positioning abutments 64 and the release profile 76 of the rotating body 50 to maintain the rotating body 50 and the gripping body 52 in their stationary positions. Figures 18 to 20 In the second operation direction D2, the gripping body 52 overcomes the force of the additional biasing member 70 to rotate relative to the rotating body 50, so that the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 engages one of the cam surfaces 76a of the release profile 76 and deflects in the second axial direction X2. Figure 21 to Figure 23 In the embodiment, the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 crosses over the previously engaged one positioning abutment 64 and the previously engaged one cam surface 76a, so that the pawl portion 60d of the biasing member 60 moves in the first axial direction X1. Figure 21 to Figure 23 In the process, the force of the additional biasing member 70 causes the rotating body 50 to rotate in the second operating direction D2 , and the pawl portion 60 d contacts the next adjacent positioning abutment 64 .

[0101] Reference now Fig.24 and Fig.25, the first modification of the operating device 10 will now be explained. Here, in the first modification, the operating device 10 is the same as the first embodiment, except that the grip body 52 has been replaced with a grip body 52'. The grip body 52' is the same as the grip body 52, except that the first contact surface 44 of the grip body 52 has been modified to a first contact surface 44' in the grip body 52'. Here, the first contact surface 44' is an annular surface including a waveform. The annular surface of the first contact surface 44' includes a plurality of segments 45' that do not contact the annular surface 41a of the first axial abutment 41. Therefore, the first contact surface 44' intermittently contacts the first axial abutment 41. In this way, the friction between the annular surface 41a of the first axial abutment 41 and the first contact surface 44' can be reduced. Alternatively, the first base portion 30 of the operating device 10 can be modified so that the annular surface 41a of the first axial abutment 41 may include a waveform having a plurality of segments, and the first contact surface 44 of the grip body 52 can be shaped as in the first embodiment. In this alternative modification of the first base portion 30, the wave-shaped segments do not contact the first contact surface 44 of the grip body 52. ​​Therefore, in these modifications, the friction between the first axial abutment and the first contact surface is reduced. Therefore, in order to reduce the friction between the first axial abutment and the first contact surface, at least one of the first axial abutment and the first contact surface includes a wave shape.

[0102] Reference now Fig.26 , another modification of the operating device 10 will now be explained. Here, in this modification, the operating device 10 is the same as the first embodiment, except that the gripping body 52 has been replaced by a gripping body 52". The gripping body 52" is the same as the gripping body 52, except that the first contact surface 44 of the gripping body 52 has been modified to be a first contact surface 44" in the gripping body 52". Here, the first contact surface 44" is an annular surface including a recessed section 45". The recessed section 45" is constructed so that the recessed section 45" does not contact the annular surface 41a of the first axial adjacent portion 41. Therefore, the contact of the first contact surface 44" with the annular surface 41a of the first axial adjacent portion 41 is less than 360 degrees. In this way, the friction between the annular surface 41a of the first axial adjacent portion 41 and the first contact surface 44" can be reduced similarly to the above-mentioned modification.

[0103] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open terms, which specify the presence of the features, elements, parts, groups, wholes and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unmentioned features, elements, parts, groups, wholes and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprise", "have" and their derivatives. Moreover, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "part", "segment", "portion", "component" or "element" when used in the singular may have a dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0104] As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "vertical", and "lateral", and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with an operating device. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe the operating device should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with an operating device. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" being referenced from the right side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle), and "left" being referenced from the left side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle).

[0105] As used in the present disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" desired options. For one embodiment, if the number of its options is two, the phrase "at least one" as used in the present disclosure means "only one single option" or "both of the two options". For another embodiment, if the number of its options is equal to or greater than three, the phrase "at least one" as used in the present disclosure means "only one single option" or "any combination equal to or greater than the two options". Moreover, the term "and / or" as used in the present disclosure means "one or both of them". For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" covers (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" covers (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C. In other words, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one A and at least one B" in the present disclosure.

[0106] Moreover, it will be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component. Thus, for example, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0107] As used herein, the terms "attached to" or "attached" encompass: configurations where one element is directly fixed to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element; where an element is indirectly fixed to another element by attaching the element to one or more intermediate members, which in turn are attached to the other element; and configurations where one element is integral with the other element, i.e., one element is substantially a part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "engage", "connect", "couple", "mount", "couple", "fix", and their derivatives. Finally, as used herein, terms of degree such as "substantially", "approximately", and "approximately" indicate an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

[0108] Although only selected embodiments have been selected to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications may be made herein without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the components shown to be directly connected or in contact with each other may have an intermediate structure disposed between them, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the function of an element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of an embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary to have all advantages at the same time in a particular embodiment. Each feature that is unique compared to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such one or more features. Therefore, the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention is provided only for illustration, rather than for the purpose of limiting the present invention defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member configured to be provided to a handlebar and having a central axis defining an axial direction and a radial direction; an operating member configured to rotate relative to the base member about the central axis; as well as a biasing member biasing the operating member in a direction not perpendicular to the axial direction, The operating member includes a plurality of positioning abutments, and the biasing member is configured to selectively engage the positioning abutments.

2. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The biasing member is attached to the base member.

3. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The base member includes a first axial abutment and a second axial abutment, and the operating member is axially disposed between the first axial abutment and the second axial abutment to limit axial movement of the operating member relative to the base member.

4. The operating device according to claim 3, wherein: The operating member includes a first contact surface configured to contact the first axial abutment, and The first axial abutment includes an annular surface, and the first contact surface annularly contacts the first axial abutment.

5. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein: The first axial abutment includes an annular surface, and the first contact surface intermittently contacts the first axial abutment.

6. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein: The first axial abutment includes an annular surface, and the first contact surface contacts the annular surface of the first axial abutment for less than 360 degrees.

7. The operating device according to claim 4, wherein: At least one of the first axial abutment and the first contact surface includes a wave shape.

8. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The base member includes a first base portion and a second base portion attached to the first base portion.

9. The operating device according to claim 8, wherein: The first base portion includes a tubular portion that rotatably supports the operating member.

10. The operating device according to claim 8, wherein: The first base portion includes a first axial abutment and the second base portion includes a second axial abutment, the operating member being axially disposed between the first axial abutment and the second axial abutment to limit axial movement of the operating member relative to the base member.

11. The operating device according to claim 8, wherein: The first base portion is attached to the second base portion by a snap-fit ​​connection.

12. The operating device according to claim 8, wherein: The second base portion includes a cable adjuster.

13. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The operating member includes a rotating body and a gripping body.

14. The operating device according to claim 13, wherein: The operating member further includes a hand grip portion constructed of an elastomeric material.

15. The operating device according to claim 13, wherein: The rotating body includes a cable attachment structure.

16. The operating device according to claim 13, wherein: The rotating body and the grip body are configured to move together in response to the operating member moving about the central axis in a first operating direction.

17. The operating device according to claim 16, wherein: The grip body is configured to move relative to the rotation body in response to the operating member moving about the central axis in a second operating direction, wherein the second operating direction is opposite to the first operating direction.

18. The operating device according to claim 17, wherein: The operating member includes an additional biasing member disposed between the grip body and the rotating body to bias the rotating body in the second operating direction relative to the grip body.

19. The operating device according to claim 18, wherein: The additional biasing member is a compression spring.

20. The operating device according to claim 18, wherein: The rotating body includes a first stop surface, and The grip body includes a second stop surface, and the additional biasing member biases the rotating body so that the first stop surface comes into contact with the second stop surface in a state where the operating member is in a rest position.

21. The operating device according to claim 17, wherein: The positioning abutment is arranged circumferentially on the rotating body relative to the central axis, and The grip body includes a release profile configured to deflect the biasing member in the axial direction to disengage the biasing member from the positioning abutment during relative movement of the grip body relative to the rotational body in response to movement of the grip body in the second operating direction.

22. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The biasing member is a leaf spring having a detent portion configured to selectively engage the positioning abutment.

23. The operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The base member includes a handlebar mounting structure.

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