Bicycle operating device

Abstract

The base member includes a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end. The operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis. The hydraulic unit is coupled to the operating member to operate the bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member. At least a portion of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis. The wireless communicator wirelessly transmits a signal to the additional component in response to the input operation. The power supply is electrically connected to the wireless communicator. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power supply is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application with the application date of April 19, 2017, application number 201710257819.X, and invention name “Bicycle Operating Device”. Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a bicycle operating device. Background Art

[0004] Bicycles are becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. In addition, bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport among amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving the various components of the bicycle. Bicycle operating devices have become a bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a hydraulic unit, an electric switch, a wireless communicator, and a power source. The base member includes a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite to the first end. The operating member is pivotally connected to the base member about a first pivot axis. The hydraulic unit is connected to the operating member to operate a bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member. When viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis. The electric switch is activated by an input operation from a user. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the electric switch to wirelessly send a signal to the additional component in response to the input operation. The power source is electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator. When viewed from the first direction, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis.

[0006] With the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis, and at least a portion of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be effectively utilized.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a hydraulic unit, an electric switch, a wireless communicator, and a power source. The base member includes a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite to the first end. The operating member is pivotally connected to the base member about a first pivot axis. The hydraulic unit is connected to the operating member to operate a bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member. The electric switch is activated by an input operation from a user. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the electric switch to wirelessly send a signal to an additional component in response to the input operation. The power source is electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator. When viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is arranged closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit.

[0008] With the bicycle operating device according to the second aspect, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit. Therefore, an internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be effectively utilized.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the first or second aspect is configured so that the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member. When viewed from the first direction, the power source is provided closer to the second end than the first pivot axis.

[0010] With the bicycle operating device according to the third aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member, which is relatively close to the additional component. Therefore, wireless communication performance is improved.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured so that the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member. When viewed from the first direction, the power source is provided closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit.

[0012] With the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member, which is relatively close to the additional component. Therefore, wireless communication performance is improved.

[0013] According to a fifth and sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects further includes a first pivot shaft, the first pivot shaft pivotally coupling the operating member to the base member around a first pivot axis. The operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot shaft and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction around the first pivot axis.

[0014] With the bicycle operating device according to the fifth and sixth aspects, the wireless communicator is disposed closer to the distal end portion than to the proximal end portion, which is relatively close to the additional components, thereby improving wireless communication performance.

[0015] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects further includes an additional operating member that is movably mounted to the base member. The wireless communicator is disposed at the additional operating member. When viewed from the first direction, the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis.

[0016] With the bicycle operating device according to the seventh aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member relatively close to the additional component, thereby improving the wireless communication performance.

[0017] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further includes an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member. The wireless communicator is disposed at the additional operating member. When viewed from the first direction, the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit.

[0018] With the bicycle operating device according to the eighth aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member, which is relatively close to the additional component. Therefore, wireless communication performance is improved.

[0019] In accordance with a ninth aspect and a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured so that the additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

[0020] With the bicycle operating device in accordance with the ninth and tenth aspects, the user can operate the additional operating member by moving the additional operating member.

[0021] In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first aspect or the tenth aspect is configured so that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore. When viewed from a first direction, at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis.

[0022] With the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction, an internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0023] In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any of the first to eleventh aspects is configured so that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore, and at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction.

[0024] With the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source, an internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0025] In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the eleventh and twelfth aspects is configured so that at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

[0026] With the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0027] In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the eleventh to thirteenth aspects is configured so that at least one of an entirety of the cylinder bore and an entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction.

[0028] With the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction, an internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0029] In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured so that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore, a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore, and a reservoir tank connected to the cylinder bore. When viewed from a first direction, at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir tank is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis.

[0030] With the bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, the cylinder bore, the piston and the fluid reservoir require large volumes. Since at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston and the fluid reservoir is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction, an internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0031] In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects and the fifteenth aspect is configured so that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore, a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore, and a reservoir tank connected to the cylinder bore. When viewed from the first direction, at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir tank is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source.

[0032] With the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the cylinder bore, the piston and the fluid tank require large volumes. Since at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston and the fluid tank is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction, an internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0033] In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the fifteenth and sixteenth aspects is configured so that when viewed from the first direction, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis.

[0034] With the bicycle operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, when viewed from the first direction, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0035] In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the fifteenth to seventeenth aspects is configured so that when viewed from the first direction, at least one of an entirety of the cylinder bore, an entirety of the piston, and an entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source.

[0036] With the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, when viewed from the first direction, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

[0037] In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects is configured so that the base member includes a rounded portion at the second end. The electric switch is provided at the rounded portion.

[0038] With the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, the rounded head portion allows the user to lean on the base member when riding a bicycle. In addition, the user can easily operate the electric switch.

[0039] In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect is configured so that the power source is provided at the pommel portion.

[0040] With the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect, electric power can be generated when the electric switch is operated to supply power to the electric switch.

[0041] In accordance with a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects further includes an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member.

[0042] With the bicycle operating device in accordance with the twenty-first aspect, the user can operate the additional operating member by moving the additional operating member.

[0043] In accordance with a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-first aspect is configured so that the additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

[0044] With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-second aspect, the user can operate the additional operating member through an operation similar to that of the operating member. Therefore, the operability of the additional operating member is enhanced.

[0045] In accordance with a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-second aspects is configured so that at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is provided at the base member.

[0046] With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-third aspect, the number of devices provided at the operating member can be reduced. Therefore, the operating member can be made thinner. Therefore, the user can easily operate the operating member.

[0047] According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-third aspects further includes a first pivot shaft that pivotally couples the operating member to the base member about a first pivot axis. The operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot shaft and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction about the first pivot axis. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the proximal end portion than to the distal end portion.

[0048] In the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fourth aspect, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is arranged closer to the near end portion than to the far end portion. Therefore, the operating portion of the operating member that the user contacts and is close to the far end portion can be made thinner. Therefore, the user can easily operate the operating member.

[0049] In accordance with a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-fourth aspects is configured so that the base member includes a mounting surface at the first end, the mounting surface having a curved shape corresponding to the drop-down handlebar.

[0050] With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fifth aspect, it is possible to securely fix the bicycle operating member to the pull-down handlebar.

[0051] In accordance with a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-fifth aspects is configured so that the base member includes a grip portion provided between the first end and the second end.

[0052] With the bicycle operating device in accordance with the twenty-sixth aspect, the grip allows the user to easily operate the operating member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] A fuller appreciation of the present invention and many of its attendant advantages will be readily appreciated, while becoming more readily understood, by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 is a left side view of a bicycle handlebar provided with a bicycle operating device according to a first embodiment;

[0055] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of the bicycle operating device shown;

[0056] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial perspective view of the bicycle operating device shown;

[0057] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device shown;

[0058] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A partial rear view of the operating device shown;

[0059] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of a bicycle operating device is shown;

[0060] Figure 7 Shown in Figure 1 Other possible locations for providing at least one of the electrical switch, the wireless communicator, the notification device, the communication controller, and the power source in the bicycle operating device shown;

[0061] Figure 8 It is along Figure 7A cross-sectional view of an example of a bicycle operating device taken along line VIII-VIII;

[0062] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A top view of an example of a bicycle operating device is shown;

[0063] Fig.10 is a left side view of a bicycle handlebar provided with a bicycle operating device according to a second embodiment;

[0064] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device shown;

[0065] Fig.12 is a left side view of a bicycle handlebar provided with a bicycle operating device according to a third embodiment;

[0066] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a bicycle operating device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the various drawings.

[0068] First embodiment

[0069] First reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a bicycle operating device 10 according to one embodiment is mounted to a bicycle handlebar 2. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the bicycle handlebar 2 is a drop-down handlebar. The bicycle handlebar 2 may be referred to as a drop-down handlebar 2. If needed and / or desired, the handlebar 2 may have a shape other than a drop-down handlebar. The bicycle operating device 10 is mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2 as a right control device configured to be operated by the rider's right hand. The structure of the bicycle operating device 10 may be applied to a left control device ( Figure 2 11). If needed and / or desired, the bicycle operating device 10 can be mounted to a bicycle handlebar other than a drop-down handlebar.

[0070] The bicycle operating device 10 is operably coupled to a hydraulic bicycle component BC1, such as a hydraulic bicycle brake. In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is operably coupled to the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via a hydraulic hose C1. In the present embodiment, the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 may be simply referred to as bicycle component BC1.

[0071] In addition, the bicycle operating device 10 is operably connected to the additional component BC2 via wireless communication. The additional component BC2 includes electric bicycle components, such as an electric shifting device, an electric suspension, and an electric seat post. The additional component BC2 may also include a controller for controlling such electric bicycle components. The additional component BC2 may also include a digital device (e.g., a bicycle computer, a mobile phone, or a music player). The additional component BC2 may also be referred to as an electric bicycle component BC2. In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is operably connected to the electric shifting device as the additional component BC2 via wireless communication. The electric bicycle component BC2 may also be referred to as an electric shifting device BC2. Examples of the electric shifting device BC2 include a derailleur and an inner gear hub.

[0072] In this application, the following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "backward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward" and "downward" and any other similar directional terms refer to the direction of the bicycle B ( Figure 2 ) on a bicycle seat and facing the handlebar 2. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle operating device 10, should be interpreted relative to a bicycle B equipped with the bicycle operating device 10 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , Df, Dre, Dl, Dri, Du, and Dd represent a front or forward direction, a rearward direction, a leftward direction, a rightward direction, an upward direction, and a downward direction, respectively. The front or forward direction Df and the rearward direction Dre may be collectively referred to as a longitudinal direction DL. The leftward direction Dl and the rightward direction Dri may be collectively referred to as a transverse direction DW. More specifically, as Figure 2 As shown, the bicycle has a transverse center plane CP extending in the longitudinal direction DL. The transverse center plane CP extends in the middle of the bicycle handlebar 2. Therefore, the right control device 10 is arranged on the right side relative to the transverse center plane CP. The left control device 11 is arranged on the left side relative to the transverse center plane CP. That is, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured to be installed on the bicycle B having the transverse center plane CP.

[0073] like Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a base member 12 and an operating member 14. The base member 12 includes a first end 12A mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2 and a second end 12B opposite to the first end 12A. The first end 12A is configured to be coupled to the bicycle handlebar 2 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. The installed state of the bicycle operating device 10 refers to a state in which the bicycle operating device 10 is mounted on the bicycle handlebar 2. Figure 3As shown, the drop-down handlebar 2 includes a curved portion 4. The base member 12 includes a mounting surface 16 at a first end 12A. The mounting surface 16 has a curved shape corresponding to the drop-down handlebar 2. Specifically, the mounting surface 16 has a curved shape corresponding to the outer peripheral surface of the curved portion 4 of the bicycle handlebar 2. The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a mounting clamp 18 coupled to the bicycle handlebar 2. The mounting clamp 18 has an annular shape. The annular shape has a clamp center axis CCA.

[0074] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the base member 12 includes a grip portion 12G arranged between the first end 12A and the second end 12B. The grip portion 12G is configured to be gripped by a user. That is, the base member 12 has a grippable shape between the first end 12A and the second end 12B. The base member 12 includes a round head portion 12P at the second end 12B. The round head portion 12P extends obliquely upward from the grip portion 12G. In the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10, the round head portion 12P is arranged at a position higher than the highest position of the first end 12A.

[0075] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 may include a cover 17. The cover 17 is configured to at least partially cover the base member 12. For example, the cover 17 is made of a non-metallic material such as rubber, and the base member 12 is made of a metallic material. If needed and / or desired, the base member 12 can be made of a non-metallic material. If needed and / or desired, the cover 17 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10.

[0076] In the present embodiment, for example, the operating member 14 is a brake operating member. Figure 1 As shown, the operating member 14 is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 about a first pivot axis A1. Specifically, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes a first pivot shaft 20 that pivotally couples the operating member 14 to the base member 12 about the first pivot axis A1. The first pivot shaft 20 defines the first pivot axis A1. The first pivot shaft 20 is supported by the base member 12. In the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10, the first pivot shaft 20 is disposed below the round head portion 12P.

[0077] In the present embodiment, the operating member 14 extends downward from the base member 12 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. The operating member 14 is rotatable in a first movable direction MD1 about the first pivot axis A1 relative to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the first movable direction MD1 is a circumferential direction defined about the first pivot axis A1. The operating member 14 is rotatable between a rest position P11 and an operating position P12 relative to the base member 12. The bicycle operating device 10 may further include a first biasing member 15 to bias the operating member 14 toward the rest position P11.

[0078] In the present application, the term "rest position" as used herein refers to a position where a movable part such as the operating member 14 remains stationary in a state where the user does not operate the movable part. The term "operated position" used herein refers to a position where the user has operated the movable part to perform an operation of the bicycle component.

[0079] like Figure 4 As shown, the operating member 14 includes a proximal portion 14A and a distal portion 14B. The proximal portion 14A is connected to the first pivot shaft 20. That is, the proximal portion 14A is pivotably connected to the base member 12. The distal portion 14B is opposite to the proximal portion 14A in the radial direction Dra around the first pivot axis A1. The operating member 14 has a free end 14FE farthest from the first pivot axis A1 when viewed in a first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis A1.

[0080] like Figure 4 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a hydraulic unit 22 . The hydraulic unit 22 is coupled to the operating member 14 to operate the bicycle component BC1 in response to operation of the operating member 14 .

[0081] The hydraulic unit 22 includes a cylinder bore 24 and a piston 26. In the present embodiment, the cylinder bore 24 is defined by a hydraulic cylinder 25 disposed in the base member 12, and the hydraulic cylinder 25 is a member different from the base member 12. That is, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed in the base member 12. However, the cylinder bore 24 may be formed as a hole in the base member 12. The cylinder bore 24 has a center axis HCA defining a hydraulic unit center axis. That is, the hydraulic unit 22 has a hydraulic unit center axis HCA. The piston 26 is movably disposed in the cylinder bore 24. The piston 26 is configured to move in an extension direction MD2 (a second movable direction MD2) of the hydraulic unit center axis HCA. In the present embodiment, the hydraulic unit center axis HCA defines a lower side LS and an upper side US. The lower side LS includes a free end 14FE of the operating member 14 when viewed from the first direction D1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the upper side US is opposite to the lower side LS relative to the hydraulic unit center axis HCA.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 and the piston 26 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24 and the entirety of the piston 26 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1. The outlet P1 of the hydraulic unit 22 is closer to the first end 12A than the piston 26.

[0083] Furthermore, the hydraulic unit 22 may include a piston biasing member 28 disposed in the cylinder bore 24 to bias the piston 26. The piston 26 is operably coupled to the operating member 14 via a connecting rod 30. The piston biasing member 28 is configured to bias the operating member 14 toward the rest position P11 via the piston 26 and the connecting rod 30.

[0084] The hydraulic unit 22 includes a reservoir 32 connected to the cylinder bore 24. In the present embodiment, the reservoir 32 is disposed at the upper side US when viewed from the first direction D1. However, the reservoir 32 may be disposed at the lower side LS when viewed from the first direction D1. The reservoir 32 is configured to be in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 24. The cylinder bore 24 is configured to be in fluid communication with the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via a hydraulic hose C1. When the operating member 14 is pivoted relative to the base member 12 about the first pivot axis A1 toward the operating position P12, hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via the hydraulic hose C1 to actuate the hydraulic bicycle component BC1. In the present embodiment, the hydraulic hose C1 is not a part of the hydraulic unit 22.

[0085] In the present embodiment, the first pivot axis A1 is disposed at the upper side US when viewed from the first direction D1. Therefore, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1. Specifically, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir tank 32 as a whole is disposed below the first pivot axis A1. More specifically, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, when viewed from the first direction D1, the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir tank 32 as a whole are disposed below the first pivot axis A1.

[0086] Furthermore, when viewed from the first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis A1, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1. Specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24, the piston 26, and the reservoir 32 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1. More specifically, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir 32 as a whole is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0087] like Figure 1 , 4 As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the bicycle operating device 10 further includes an additional operating member 34 movably mounted to the base member 12. The additional operating member 34 is configured to receive an input operation from a user. That is, the additional operating member 34 is configured to be operated by a user. The additional operating member 34 is movable relative to the operating member 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the additional operating member 34 is movably coupled to the operating member 14. The additional operating member 34 is pivotally mounted on the operating member 14 about a second pivot axis A2 that is not parallel to the first pivot axis A1. Figure 5 As shown, the additional operating member 34 can rotate in a third movable direction MD3 around the second pivot axis A2 relative to the operating member 14. In the present embodiment, the third movable direction MD3 is a circumferential direction defined around the second pivot axis A2. The additional operating member 34 can rotate between a static position P21 and an operating position P22 relative to the operating member 14.

[0088] The additional operating member 34 includes, for example, a resin material. In addition to the resin material, the additional operating member 34 may selectively include carbon fiber and other reinforcing materials. In other words, the additional operating member 34 may be made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic or the like. However, if necessary and / or desired, the additional operating member 34 may be made of other materials.

[0089] like Figure 1 , 4 As shown in FIG. 5 , the operating member 14 includes a cavity 36, and the additional operating member 34 is at least partially disposed in the cavity 36. The cavity 36 extends between the proximal portion 14A and the distal portion 14B. The additional operating member 34 is disposed between the proximal portion 14A and the distal portion 14B. Figure 5 As shown, the operating member 14 includes a first side wall 38 and a second side wall 40 spaced apart from each other. The first side wall 38 and the second side wall 40 extend between the proximal end 14A and the distal end 14B. The cavity 36 is defined between the first side wall 38 and the second side wall 40. The additional operating member 34 is at least partially disposed between the first side wall 38 and the second side wall 40.

[0090] The bicycle operating device 10 includes a pivot pin 42 and a second biasing member 44. The pivot pin 42 defines a second pivot axis A2. The pivot pin 42 is fixed to the operating member 14. The additional operating member 34 is pivotally mounted to the operating member 14 via the pivot pin 42. The second biasing member 44 is configured to bias the additional operating member 34 toward the first side wall 38. The first side wall 38 is configured to position the additional operating member 34 in the rest position P21.

[0091] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 includes an electric switch that is activated by an input operation from a user. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a first electric switch SW1 and a second electric switch SW2. However, if needed and / or desired, one of the first electric switch SW1 and the second electric switch SW2 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10. The first electric switch SW1 and the second electric switch SW2 can also be referred to as the electric switch SW1 and the electric switch SW2, respectively. Figure 4 As shown, the electric switch SW1 is disposed in the first internal space S1 of the base member 12 at the round head 12P. That is, the electric switch SW1 is disposed at the round head 12P. The electric switch SW2 is disposed in the second internal space S2 of the additional operating member 34. Therefore, the electric switch SW1 is disposed at the base member 12, and the electric switch SW2 is disposed at the additional operating member 34.

[0092] From another perspective, the electric switch SW1 is arranged on the upper side US, and the electric switch SW2 is arranged on the lower side LS. The electric switch SW1 is arranged closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B, and the electric switch SW2 is arranged closer to the distal end portion 14B than to the proximal end portion 14A. However, the first electric switch SW1 and the second electric switch SW2 may be arranged at positions different from the round head portion 12P and the additional operating member 34. Other possible positions are described in the modification of the present embodiment.

[0093] The electrical switches SW1 and SW2 are configured to be operated by a user. Figure 4 As shown, a button or switch member of the first electric switch SW1 protrudes from the base member 12. The user can operate the first electric switch SW1 by pressing the button of the first electric switch SW1 or switching the switch member of the first electric switch SW1. Pressing the button of the first electric switch SW1 or switching the switch member of the first electric switch SW1 can be referred to as a first input operation. The first electric switch SW1 is configured to receive a first input operation from the user to generate a first control signal SG1 in response to the first input operation.

[0094] As for the second electric switch SW2, Figure 1 and Figure 5As shown, the operating member 14 includes a receiving portion 41 provided on the second side wall 40. The receiving portion 41 extends from the second side wall 40. Figure 1 As shown, when viewed from the first direction D1, the electric switch SW2 overlaps the receiving portion 41. Figure 5 As shown, the button of the second electric switch SW2 protrudes from the additional operating member 34. That is, the electric switch SW2 is disposed to face the receiving portion 41 in the first direction D1.

[0095] like Figure 5 As shown, when the additional operating member 34 is pushed toward the second side wall 40 by the user, the additional operating member 34 pivots relative to the operating member 14 about the second pivot axis A2 toward the operating position P22. This pivoting movement of the additional operating member 34 relative to the operating member 14 can be referred to as a second input operation. The electric switch SW2 is configured to be activated by the receiving portion 41 of the operating member 14 in response to the second input operation. The second electric switch SW2 is configured to receive a second input operation from the user to generate a second control signal SG2 in response to the second input operation.

[0096] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a wireless communicator WC1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes one wireless communicator WC1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 may include a plurality of wireless communicators. The wireless communicator WC1 is disposed at the additional operating member 34. Specifically, the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed in the second inner space S2 of the additional operating member 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed in the additional operating member 34, but the wireless communicator WC1 may also be disposed on the additional operating member 34. In addition, the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed closer to the distal end portion 14B than to the proximal end portion 14A. However, the wireless communicator WC1 may be disposed at a location different from the additional operating member 34. Other possible locations are described in variations of the present embodiment.

[0097] The wireless communicator WC1 is electrically connected to the electric switch SW1 to wirelessly transmit a signal (e.g., the first control signal SG1) to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation (e.g., the first input operation described above). The wireless communicator WC1 is electrically connected to the electric switch SW2 to wirelessly transmit a signal (e.g., the second control signal SG2) to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation (e.g., the second input operation described above).

[0098] In addition, wireless communicator WC1 can receive a signal from additional component BC2 regarding the status of the additional component (e.g., communication status and current gear position, etc.) to be forwarded to a notification device described below.

[0099] The wireless communicator WC1 may include a directional wireless antenna (not shown) to output a wireless signal stronger in a specific direction than in other directions. That is, the wireless communicator WC1 is configured to wirelessly transmit a directional signal to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation. However, if necessary and / or desired, the wireless communicator WC1 may be configured to wirelessly transmit a signal that does not have a directional characteristic.

[0100] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 may further include a notification device INF1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes one notification device INF1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 may include a plurality of notification devices. Furthermore, the notification device INF1 may be omitted. In the illustrated embodiment, the notification device INF1 is disposed at the additional operating member 34. Specifically, the notification device INF1 is disposed in the second inner space S2 of the additional operating member 34. However, the notification device INF1 may be disposed on the additional operating member 34. Furthermore, the notification device INF1 may be disposed at a location different from the additional operating member 34. Other possible locations are described in variations of the present embodiment.

[0101] The notification device INF1 can be configured to notify the user of the status of the bicycle operating device 10. Alternatively or additionally, the notification device INF1 can be configured to notify the user of a pairing mode between the bicycle operating device 10 and the additional component BC2. Furthermore, the notification device INF1 can be configured to notify another information, such as the current gear position. Figure 1 As shown, the notification device INF1 is exposed from a through hole 34a provided on the additional operating member 34, and the notification device INF1 includes a light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light through the through hole 34a according to the state of the bicycle operating device 10 and the pairing mode, etc. The wireless communicator WC1, the electric switch SW2, and the notification device INF1 may be provided on a substrate (not shown) fixed to the additional operating member 34 in the second internal space S2, for example.

[0102] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a communication controller CC1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes one communication controller CC1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 may include multiple communication controllers. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication controller CC1 is disposed at the round head portion 12P. However, the communication controller CC1 may be disposed at a location other than the round head portion 12P. Other possible locations are described in variations of this embodiment.

[0103] The communication controller CC1 is configured to control the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit the signal SG1 (SG2) to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation to the electric switch SW1 (SW2). For example, the communication controller CC1 is electrically connected to each of the first electric switch SW1, the second electric switch SW2, the wireless communicator WC1, and the notification device INF1. The electric switches SW1 and SW2 are electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC1 via the communication controller CC1.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, when the first electric switch SW1 is activated in response to a first input operation from a user, the communication controller CC1 controls the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit the first control signal SG1 to the additional component BC2. Specifically, the communication controller CC1 is configured to detect the activation of the first electric switch SW1. Then, the communication controller CC1 is configured to generate the first control signal SG1 in response to the activation of the electric switch SW1. The wireless communicator WC1 is configured to superimpose the first control signal SG1 on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to generate a wireless signal.

[0105] When the electric switch SW2 is activated in response to the second input operation from the user, the communication controller CC1 controls the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit the second control signal SG2 to the additional component BC2. Specifically, the communication controller CC1 is configured to detect the activation of the second electric switch SW2. Then, the communication controller CC1 is configured to generate the second control signal SG2 in response to the activation of the second electric switch SW2. The wireless communicator WC1 is configured to superimpose the second control signal SG2 on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to generate a wireless signal.

[0106] like Figure 6 As shown, the communication controller CC1 is configured as a microcomputer and includes a processor PR1 and a memory M1. The processor PR1 includes a central processing unit (CPU). The memory M1 includes a read-only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM). For example, a program stored in the memory M1 is read into the processor PR1, thereby executing the functions of the communication controller CC1.

[0107] The first electrical switch SW1 may be a function switch. The communication controller CC1 is configured to enter a setting mode for initial setting and / or programming when a user operates the function switch SW1.

[0108] like Figure 1 , 46, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a power source PS1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes one power source PS1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 may include a plurality of power sources. In the illustrated embodiment, the power source PS1 is disposed at the round head portion 12P. In other words, the power source PS1 is disposed at the upper side US. In addition, the power source PS1 is disposed at the base member 12. The power source PS1 is disposed closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B. Therefore, at least one of the power source PS1 and the electric switch SW1 is disposed at the round head portion 12P. At least one of the power source PS1 and the electric switch SW1 is arranged in the upper side US. At least one of the power source PS1 and the electric switch SW1 is disposed at the base member 12. At least one of the power source PS1 and the electric switch SW1 is disposed closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B. At least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 is disposed at the round head portion 12P. At least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 is disposed at the upper side US. At least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 is disposed at the base member 12. At least one of wireless communicator WC1 and power source PS1 is disposed closer to near end portion 14A than to far end portion 14B.

[0109] Furthermore, the power supply PS1 is disposed at a position closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1. That is, when viewed from the first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis A1, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1. In other words, when viewed from the first direction, the power supply PS1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22. That is, when viewed from the first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis A1, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22.

[0110] In contrast, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 and the piston 26 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. When viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24, the piston 26, and the reservoir 32 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. More specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole and the piston 26 as a whole is disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. At least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir 32 as a whole is disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. However, the power source PS1 may be disposed at a position different from the round head 12P. Other possible positions are described in variations of the present embodiment.

[0111] Furthermore, when the bicycle operating device 10 is installed, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 when viewed from a first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis A1. Specifically, when the bicycle operating device 10 is installed, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below the power source PS1. More specifically, when the bicycle operating device 10 is installed, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir tank 32 as a whole is disposed below the power source PS1 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, when the bicycle operating device 10 is installed, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir tank 32 as a whole is disposed below the power source PS1.

[0112] In other words, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the free end 14FE of the operating member 14 than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. Specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the free end 14FE than the power source PS1. More specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the entire cylinder bore 24, the entire piston 26, and the entire reservoir tank 32 is disposed closer to the free end 14FE than the power source PS1. More specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, the entire cylinder bore 24, the entire piston 26, and the entire reservoir tank 32 are disposed closer to the free end 14FE than the power source PS1.

[0113] The power source PS1 is electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC1 to supply power to the wireless communicator WC1. The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a cable C2 electrically connected between the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. The cable C2 extends from the wireless communicator WC1 to the power source PS1 along the operating member 14 and / or the additional operating member 34. In addition, the power source PS1 is electrically connected to the electric switches SW1 and SW2, the communication controller CC1, and the notification device INF1 to supply power to the electric switches SW1 and SW2, the communication controller CC1, and the notification device INF1.

[0114] like Figure 6 As shown, the power supply PS1 includes an electric energy generating element EG1. In addition, the power supply PS1 may also include a rectifier circuit RC1. In addition, the power supply PS1 may also include a capacitor CA1. The power supply PS1 may include a battery BT1 and a battery holder BH1. The battery BT1 is installed in the battery holder BH1. Examples of the battery BT1 include primary batteries such as lithium manganese dioxide batteries and secondary batteries such as lithium ion batteries. In the present embodiment, the battery BT1 is a primary button battery.

[0115] The electric energy generating element EG1 may include a piezoelectric element. The electric energy generating element EG1 generates electric energy (e.g., alternating current) using pressure and / or vibration of the piezoelectric element. For example, the piezoelectric element may be attached to the first electric switch SW1, and the electric energy generating element EG1 generates electric energy using pressure and / or vibration caused by pressing the first electric switch SW1. Alternatively or additionally, the piezoelectric element may be attached to at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14, and the electric energy generating element EG1 generates electric energy using pressure and / or vibration of at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14 caused by the movement of the operating member 14 relative to the base member 12. Further optionally or additionally, the piezoelectric element may be attached to at least one of the operating member 14, the additional operating member 34, and the second electric switch SW2, and the electric energy generating element EG1 generates electric energy using pressure and / or vibration of at least one of the operating member 14, the additional operating member 34, and the second electric switch SW2 caused by the movement of the additional operating member 34 relative to the operating member 14. The surplus electric energy generated by the electric energy generating element EG1 may be charged to the capacitor CA1.

[0116] The rectifier circuit RC1 is connected to the power generating element EG1 to rectify the power generated by the power generating element EG1. Since the power generating element EG1 and the rectifier circuit RC1 are well known in the electronic field, they are not described and / or shown in detail for the sake of brevity.

[0117] Modification of the First Embodiment

[0118] As described above, at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2, the wireless communicator WC1, the notification device INF1, the communication controller CC1, and the power supply PS1 may be provided at a position different from that described in the above embodiment. Figure 7 Possible positions where at least one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW2, the wireless communicator WC1, the notification device INF1, the communication controller CC1, and the power supply PS1 can be arranged are shown.

[0119] like Figure 7 As shown, the base member 12 includes a first internal space S1 and a third internal space S3. When viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, the third internal space S3 is disposed above the hydraulic unit 22 at the grip portion 12G. The operating member 14 includes a fourth internal space S4, a fifth internal space S5, and a sixth internal space S6. The fourth internal space S4 is disposed near the proximal end portion 14A. The fifth internal space S5 is disposed at the receiving portion 41. The sixth internal space S6 is disposed near the distal end portion 14B. Specifically, the fourth internal space S4 is configured to be closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B. When viewed from the first direction D1, the fifth internal space S5 overlaps with the second internal space S2 included in the additional operating member 34. The sixth internal space S6 is closer to the distal end portion 14B than to the proximal end portion 14A.

[0120] When viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6 are provided closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22. Therefore, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6. In the case where at least one power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6, as described in the first embodiment, any wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6. In addition, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6, as described in the first embodiment, any power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6.

[0121] When viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4 are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1. Therefore, preferably, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4. In the case where at least one power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4, as described in the first embodiment, any wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) may be disposed in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6. Furthermore, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4, any power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) may be disposed in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6.

[0122] In the case where the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed at the base member 12 (eg, the first internal space S1 or the third internal space S3), the wireless communicator WC1 preferably faces the transverse center plane CP2 (see Figure 2 ). Figure 8 and Fig. 9 An example of the bicycle operating device 10 is shown, in which the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed in the third internal space S3. Specifically, Figure 8 It is along Figure 7 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the bicycle operating device 10 taken along line VIII-VIII. Fig. 9 FIG. 2 is a top view of an example of the bicycle operating device 10 when the bicycle operating device 10 is installed. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, the power source PS1 is also disposed in the third internal space S3 , but the power source PS1 may be disposed in one of the first, second, and fourth to sixth internal spaces S1 , S2 , and S4 to S6 .

[0123] like Figure 8 and Fig. 9As shown, the first direction D1 is a bidirectional direction including a first unidirectional direction D1 (e.g., left direction D1) and a second unidirectional direction Dri (e.g., right direction Dri). The second unidirectional direction Dri is the opposite direction of the first unidirectional direction D1. The base member 12 includes a first side surface LS1 and a second side surface LS2. The first side surface LS1 faces the first unidirectional direction D1. The second side surface LS2 faces the second unidirectional direction Dri. The first side surface LS1 is closer to the transverse center plane CP in the first direction D1 than the second side surface LS2. Preferably, the wireless communicator WC1 is arranged between the first side surface LS1 and the second side surface LS2 in the first direction D1. The first side surface LS1 is closer to the wireless communicator WC1 in the first direction D1 than the second side surface LS2.

[0124] In addition, if Figures 7 to 9 As shown, when viewed in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 overlaps with at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. Similarly, when viewed from a handlebar tangent direction HTD parallel to the clamp center axis CCA, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 overlaps with at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. When viewed from a vertical direction HVD based on the hydraulic unit that is perpendicular to the first pivot axis A1 and the hydraulic unit center axis HCA, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 overlaps with at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1. Therefore, at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14 can be made thinner in the first direction D1. Therefore, the user can easily hold at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14.

[0125] In the case where the wireless communicator WC1 is provided at the operating member 14, the wireless communicator WC1 is preferably provided in the sixth internal space S6 to improve the wireless communication performance because the sixth internal space S6 is closer to the additional component BC2 than the fourth and fifth internal spaces S4 and S5. In this case, as described above, at least one power source (e.g., power source PS1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4, so that the power source PS1 is provided closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction.

[0126] The communication controller CC1 may be disposed in an interior space (one of S2 to S6) different from the first interior space S1. In the case where the bicycle operating device 10 includes a plurality of communication controllers, the plurality of communication controllers may be disposed in at least one of the first to sixth interior spaces S1 to S6. In addition, at least one of the plurality of communication controllers (e.g., the communication controller CC1) may be integrated into the wireless communicator WC1 as a single unit.

[0127] At least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 may be disposed in at least one of the internal spaces S3 to S6 that are different from the first internal space S1 and the second internal space S2. For example, the electric switch SW2 may be disposed in the fifth internal space S5 of the receiving portion 41 instead of the second internal space S2. In this case, when viewed from the first direction D1, the electric switch SW2 overlaps with the additional operating member 34. The button of the second electric switch SW2 protrudes from the receiving portion 41. That is, the electric switch SW2 is disposed to face the additional operating member 34 in the first direction D1. In this structure, the electric switch SW2 is configured to be activated by the additional operating member 34 in response to the above-mentioned second input operation.

[0128] In addition, when the power supply PS1 generates electric energy by pressing at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2, at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 may be preferably integrated into the power supply PS1. Alternatively, at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 may be preferably disposed in an internal space in which the power supply PS1 is disposed.

[0129] The notification device INF1 is mounted to one of the base member 12, the operating member 14, and the additional operating member 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the notification device INF1 is mounted to the additional operating member 34. If needed and / or desired, the notification device INF1 may also be mounted to one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14. The notification device INF1 may be disposed in an interior space (one of S1, S3 to S6) different from the second interior space S2. In addition, the notification device INF1 may be disposed in a device different from the bicycle operating device 10 (e.g., a bicycle computer) mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2. In the case where the bicycle operating device 10 includes a plurality of notification devices, the plurality of notification devices may be disposed in at least one of the first to sixth interior spaces S1 to S6.

[0130] The structure of the bicycle operating device 10 is applied to Figure 2 In the case of the illustrated left control device 11 , the left control device 11 has substantially the same structure as the bicycle operating device 10 , except that they are mirror images of each other and, for the sake of brevity, will not be described and / or illustrated in detail herein.

[0131] Second embodiment

[0132] The following will refer to Figure 10 to Figure 11A bicycle operating device 110 in accordance with a second embodiment is described. The bicycle operating device 110 has the same structure as the bicycle operating device 10 except for the position of the hydraulic unit 22, the shape of the first interior space 1A in the base member 12, the positional relationship between the first interior space S1A and the hydraulic unit 22, the positional relationship between the third interior space S3A and the hydraulic unit 22, and the positional relationship between the fourth interior space S4A and the hydraulic unit 22. Therefore, elements having substantially the same functions as those in the first embodiment will be numbered the same herein and will not be described and / or illustrated in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

[0133] In the second embodiment, the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below the rounded portion 12P in the base member 12 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. The hydraulic unit 22 is disposed above the operating member 14 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. At least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed above the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. Specifically, at least one of the entire cylinder bore 24, the entire piston 26, and the entire reservoir 32 is disposed above the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. More specifically, the entire cylinder bore 24, the entire piston 26, and the entire reservoir 32 are disposed above the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10.

[0134] Furthermore, when viewed from the first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis A1, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1. Specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of a portion of the cylinder bore 24 and the reservoir 32 is at least partially disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the outlet P2 of the hydraulic unit 22 is closer to the second end 12B than the piston 26.

[0135] The first interior space S1A is disposed below at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. The first interior space S1A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1. The first interior space S1A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1. The shape of the first interior space S1A is different from the first interior space S1 in the first embodiment, such that the first interior space S1A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22.

[0136] When viewed from the first direction D1, the third internal space S3A is disposed farther from the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22. When viewed from the first direction D1, the third internal space S3A is disposed farther from the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1.

[0137] The fourth interior space S4A is disposed below the entirety of the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. The fourth interior space S4A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 (e.g., the connecting rod 30) when viewed from the first direction D1. The fourth interior space S4A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1.

[0138] Therefore, in the second embodiment, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1A and the fourth internal space S4A. In the case where at least one power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1A and the fourth internal space S4A, any wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1A to S6. Conversely, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1A and the fourth internal space S4A, any power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1A to S6. Other features are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0139] Third embodiment

[0140] The following will refer to Figure 12 to Figure 13 A bicycle operating device 10 in accordance with a third embodiment is described. The bicycle operating device 10 has the same structure as the bicycle operating device 10 except for the hydraulic unit 122, the position of the first pivot shaft 20, the pivot pin 142, the operating member 114, the additional operating member 134, the rotating mechanism 135, the shape and position of the first interior space S1B in the base member 12, and the position of the fourth interior space S4B in the operating member 114. Therefore, elements having substantially the same functions as those in the above-described embodiments will be numbered the same herein and will not be described and / or illustrated in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

[0141] like Fig.12 and Fig.13As shown in FIG. 1 , the bicycle operating device 10 in the third embodiment includes an operating member 114 having a hydraulic unit 122. In the present embodiment, when the bicycle operating device 10 is installed and viewed from the first direction D1, the first pivot axis A1 (the first pivot shaft 20) is arranged in front of the operating member 114. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first pivot axis A1 is arranged at a position closer to the second end 12B than the round head 12P. Fig.13 As shown, the hydraulic unit 122 includes a cylinder bore 124 and a piston 26. The hydraulic unit 122 includes a reservoir 32 connected to the cylinder bore 124. Fig.13 As shown, the cylinder bore 124 is formed as a hole in the operating member 114. However, the cylinder bore 124 may be defined by a hydraulic cylinder that is provided in the operating member 114 and is a different member from the operating member 114. In addition, the reservoir 32 may be integrated into the cylinder bore 124.

[0142] When viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed behind the first pivot axis 20. That is, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1. Specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, the entirety of the cylinder bore 124 and the entirety of the piston 26 are disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis A1. The first pivot axis A1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122.

[0143] When viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed above the first pivot axis A1. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, when viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10, a portion of the connecting rod 30 is disposed above the first pivot axis A1. However, another portion of the hydraulic unit 122 may also be disposed above the first pivot axis A1.

[0144] In the third embodiment, the base member 12 includes an operating member actuating surface 46 below the round head 12P. When the operating member 114 is operated to move from the rest position P11 toward the operating position P12, the operating member actuating surface 46 pushes the top end 31 of the connecting rod 30 toward the distal end 14B of the operating member 114. The outlet P3 of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed closer to the distal end 14B of the operating member 114 than the piston 26.

[0145] In the illustrated embodiment, the additional operating member 134 is movably coupled to the base member 12. When viewed from the first direction D1, the additional operating member 134 does not overlap the operating member 114. Therefore, the operating member 114 does not include the receiving portion 41 and the fifth inner space S5.

[0146] like Fig.13 As shown, the additional operating member 134 is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 via a rotating mechanism 135. The additional operating member 134 is rotatable about a third pivot axis A3 that is parallel to the first pivot axis A1. The additional operating member 134 is rotatable about the third pivot axis A3 in a fourth movable direction MD4 to accommodate the pivoting of the operating member 114. In the present embodiment, the fourth movable direction MD4 is a circumferential direction defined about the third pivot axis A3. The bicycle operating device 10 includes a pivot pin 142 that defines the third pivot axis A3. The pivot pin 142 is fixed to the rotating mechanism 135. The additional operating member 134 is pivotally mounted to the rotating mechanism 135 via the pivot pin 142.

[0147] The rotating mechanism 135 is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 about a fourth pivot axis A4 that is not parallel to the first pivot axis A1. Therefore, the additional operating member 134 is rotatable about the fourth pivot axis A4. The rotating mechanism 135 may have a Figure 5 The structure shown in the figure is the same as the structure constituted by the additional operating member 34 and the electric switch SW2 in the first embodiment. In the case where the rotating mechanism 135 can have the same structure as the structure constituted by the additional operating member 34 and the electric switch SW2 in the first embodiment, the electric switch SW2 in the rotating mechanism 135 is electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC1. Alternatively, the rotating mechanism 135 can have a rotating structure that a conventional speed change unit has. For example, the rotating mechanism 135 can have a gear rotatable about a fourth pivot axis A4, a latch for positioning the rotation angle of the gear, and a rotation sensor for detecting the rotation angle of the gear. The rotating mechanism 135 may also include a biasing member similar to the second biasing member 44 to bias the additional operating member 134 toward a specific position (e.g., a stationary position or an original position).

[0148] When the additional operating member 134 is pushed by the user in the first direction D1 substantially parallel to the third pivot axis A3, the additional operating member 134 pivots relative to the base member 12 about the fourth pivot axis A4 toward an operating position not shown in the figure. This pivoting movement of the additional operating member 134 relative to the base member 12 can be referred to as a second input operation. The rotating mechanism 135 is configured to receive a second input operation from the user to generate a second control signal SG2 in response to the second input operation.

[0149] like Fig.13As shown, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B is disposed above at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122. That is, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed below the first internal space S1B. In addition, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B is shaped such that the first internal space S1B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122. Therefore, the first internal space S1B may have a shape different from that of the first internal space S1.

[0150] The fourth interior space S4B is disposed in front of the first pivot axis 20 in the operating member 114 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 210. Therefore, the fourth interior space S4B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1 when viewed from the first direction D1, and is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122 when viewed from the first direction D1. The shape of the fourth interior space S4B may correspond to the front surface of the operating member 114. Therefore, the fourth interior space S4B may have a shape different from that of the fourth interior space S4.

[0151] Therefore, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122. More specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1. Conversely, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second internal space S2, the third internal space S3, and the fifth internal space S5 are disposed farther from the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122. More specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, the second internal space S2, the third internal space S3, and the fifth internal space S5 are disposed farther from the second end 12B than the first pivot axis A1.

[0152] Therefore, in the third embodiment, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B. In the case where at least one power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B, any wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) may be disposed in any one of the first to fourth and sixth internal spaces S1B to S4B and S6. Conversely, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B, any power supply (e.g., the power supply PS1) may be disposed in any one of the first to fourth and sixth internal spaces S1B to S4B and S6. Other features are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0153] It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle field from this disclosure that the structures of the above-mentioned embodiments may be at least partially combined with each other.

[0154] The term "comprise" and its derivatives used herein are intended to be open terms, which indicate the presence of the recorded features, elements, parts, groups, wholes and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unrecorded features, elements, parts, groups, wholes and / or steps. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, for example, the terms "have", "include" and their derivatives.

[0155] The terms “member,” “section,” “portion,” “part,” “element,” “body,” and “structure” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0156] The term "configured" used herein to describe a component, section, segment or part of a device includes hardware and / or software that is constructed and / or programmed to perform the desired function. The desired function can be performed by hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0157] Ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” cited in the present application are only for indication, and have no other meaning, for example, a specific order, etc. Moreover, for example, the term “first element” itself does not imply the existence of a “second element”, and the term “second element” itself does not imply the existence of a “first element”.

[0158] Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

[0159] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the present invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A bicycle operating device, comprising: a base member including a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end; an operating member pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis; a hydraulic unit coupled to the operating member to operate a bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit being disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis; an electric switch that is activated by an input operation from a user; a wireless communicator electrically connected to the electrical switch to wirelessly transmit a signal to an additional component in response to the input operation; as well as A power source electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source being disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

2. A bicycle operating device, comprising: a base member including a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end; an operating member pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis; a hydraulic unit coupled to the operating member to operate a bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member; an electric switch that is activated by an input operation from a user; a wireless communicator electrically connected to the electrical switch to wirelessly transmit a signal to an additional component in response to the input operation; as well as a power source electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source being disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

3. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, wherein: The wireless communicator is provided at the operating member, and The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

4. The bicycle operating device according to claim 2, wherein: The wireless communicator is provided at the operating member, and When viewed from the first direction, the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit.

5. The bicycle operating device according to claim 3, further comprising: a first pivot shaft pivotally coupling the operating member to the base member about the first pivot axis, wherein The operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot axis and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction around the first pivot axis, and The wireless communicator is disposed closer to the distal end portion than to the proximal end portion.

6. The bicycle operating device according to claim 4, further comprising: a first pivot shaft pivotally coupling the operating member to the base member about the first pivot axis, wherein The operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot axis and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction around the first pivot axis, and The wireless communicator is disposed closer to the distal end portion than to the proximal end portion.

7. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, further comprising: an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member, wherein: The wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member, and The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

8. The bicycle operating device according to claim 2, further comprising: an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member, wherein: The wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member, and When viewed from the first direction, the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit.

9. The bicycle operating device according to claim 7, wherein The additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

10. The bicycle operating device according to claim 8, wherein: The additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

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