Coupling unit for pedal assembly and pedal

Abstract

A coupling unit releasably connects a skid of the shoe to the pedal assembly. The coupling unit includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and a shaft. The first coupling member and the second coupling member are configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion to the coupling unit. The first coupling member has a pair of holes. The second coupling member has a pair of holes. The second coupling member is pivotally coupled to the first coupling member through the shaft. The shaft is disposed in the bore such that the second coupling member is pivotally coupled to the first coupling member through the shaft. In one embodiment, the shaft is press-fitted into at least one of the bores. In another embodiment, the shaft has opposite axial ends crimped-secured to one of the first and second coupling members.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a coupling unit for a pedal assembly and a pedal. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a coupling unit for a pedal assembly configured for use with a human-powered vehicle and a pedal including the coupling unit. Background Art

[0002] Pedals are designed for specific purposes, such as comfort, leisure riding, off-road riding, road racing, exercise, etc. A particular type of pedal that is becoming increasingly popular is a step-in or clip-in pedal. Traditional step-in or clip-in pedals are releasably coupled to a cleat that is fixed to the sole of a user's shoe. Therefore, the bottom of the user's shoe is fixed to the pedal for transferring pedaling force from the user to the pedal. In other words, for a clip-in pedal, when the cleat is engaged in the cleat fixing mechanism, the shoe and the pedal are in a constant engagement state, so that the pedaling force can be effectively transferred to the pedal. Traditional clip-in pedals include a pedal shaft that can be attached to the crank of a human-powered vehicle, a pedal body that is rotatably supported on the pedal shaft, and a cleat coupling unit. For this traditional bicycle pedal, the engagement operation of the cleat disengagement is typically performed by twisting the shoe so that the heel of the shoe moves outward while the shoe is coupled to the pedal. Summary of the invention

[0003] In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of a coupling unit for a pedal assembly configured for use with 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 power other than human power. In particular, vehicles that use only internal combustion engines as driving power are not included in human-powered vehicles. Human-powered vehicles are generally considered to be a compact, lightweight vehicle that often does not require a driver's license to travel 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 various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, recumbent bikes, and electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes).

[0004] In view of the state of the known technology and according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a coupling unit for a pedal assembly is provided. The pedal assembly is configured to be used with a human-powered vehicle. The coupling unit releasably couples an anti-skid portion of a shoe to the pedal assembly. The coupling unit substantially comprises a first coupling member, a second coupling member and an axle. The first coupling member is configured to releasably couple the anti-skid portion to the coupling unit. The first coupling member is configured to be arranged to a pedal body of the pedal assembly. The first coupling member has a first hole and a second hole. The second coupling member is configured to releasably couple the anti-skid portion to the coupling unit. The second coupling member is capable of pivoting between an anti-skid portion holding position and an anti-skid portion non-holding position. The second coupling member is coupled to the first coupling member. The second coupling member has a third hole and a fourth hole. The axle has a central axis. The axle is arranged in the first hole, the second hole, the third hole and the fourth hole so that the second coupling member can pivot around the central axis. The axle is press-fitted to at least one of the first hole, the second hole, the third hole and the fourth hole. The axle is press-fitted to the first hole when the axle is press-fitted to the second hole or when the axle is loosely fitted to the second hole, the third hole and the fourth hole. In the case where the shaft is loosely fitted to the first hole, the third hole and the fourth hole, the shaft is press-fitted to the second hole. In the case where the shaft is press-fitted to the fourth hole or in the case where the shaft is loosely fitted to the first hole, the second hole and the fourth hole, the shaft is press-fitted to the third hole. In the case where the shaft is loosely fitted to the first hole, the second hole and the third hole, the shaft is press-fitted to the fourth hole.

[0005] With the coupling unit according to the first aspect, the first coupling member and the second coupling member can be easily and reliably coupled together with the shaft.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a coupling unit for a pedal assembly is provided. The pedal assembly is configured to be used with a human-powered vehicle. The coupling unit releasably couples an anti-skid portion of a shoe to the pedal assembly. The coupling unit basically includes a first coupling member, a second coupling member, and an axle. The first coupling member is configured to releasably couple the anti-skid portion to the coupling unit. The first coupling member is configured to be arranged to a pedal body of the pedal assembly. The first coupling member has a first hole and a second hole. The second coupling member is configured to releasably couple the anti-skid portion to the coupling unit. The second coupling member can pivot between an anti-skid portion holding position and an anti-skid portion non-holding position. The second coupling member is coupled to the first coupling member. The second coupling member has a third hole and a fourth hole. The axle has a central axis. The axle is arranged in the first hole, the second hole, the third hole, and the fourth hole so that the second coupling member can pivot around the central axis. The axle has a first axial end and a second axial end opposite to the first axial end. Both the first axial end and the second axial end are crimped-fastened to one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member.

[0007] With the coupling unit according to the second aspect, it is possible to easily and reliably couple the first coupling member and the second coupling member to the shaft.

[0008] In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to the first aspect or the second aspect further includes a biasing member that biases the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position.

[0009] With the coupling unit according to the third aspect, after the anti-slip portion engaging operation and / or the anti-slip portion disengaging operation, the second coupling member can reliably return to the anti-slip portion holding position to fix the anti-slip portion.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that: the first coupling member includes an outer portion and an inner portion, and both the inner portion and the outer portion are bent toward each other.

[0011] With the coupling unit according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to suppress an increase in the lateral width of the coupling unit.

[0012] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to the fourth aspect is configured such that a curvature of the inner portion is different from a curvature of the outer portion.

[0013] With the coupling unit according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to reliably prevent the coupling unit from being improperly attached to the pedal main body.

[0014] According to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the connecting unit according to the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect is configured so that: the inner part includes an inner engaging recess configured to engage with a positioning contour portion of the pedal body, and the outer part includes an outer engaging recess configured to engage with another positioning contour portion of the pedal body.

[0015] With the coupling unit according to the sixth aspect, the coupling unit can be easily positioned to the pedal main body.

[0016] In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the inner engaging recess is different in shape from the outer engaging recess.

[0017] With the coupling unit according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to reliably prevent the coupling unit from being improperly attached to the pedal main body.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured such that: the first hole is arranged adjacent to the third hole relative to the axial direction defined by the central axis of the shaft, and the second hole is adjacent to the fourth hole relative to the axial direction.

[0019] With the coupling unit according to the eighth aspect, the first coupling member and the second coupling member can be easily provided to the shaft.

[0020] In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that: the shaft is press-fitted to the first hole and the second hole.

[0021] With the coupling unit according to the ninth aspect, the shaft is fixed to the first coupling member to prevent the shaft from axially moving relative to the first coupling member.

[0022] In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is configured such that: the shaft is press-fitted to the third hole and the fourth hole.

[0023] With the coupling unit according to the tenth aspect, the shaft is fixed to the second coupling member to prevent the shaft from axially moving relative to the second coupling member.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured such that: the first coupling member includes a first pedal mounting portion, a second pedal mounting portion, and an anti-slip portion engaging portion. The anti-slip portion engaging portion connects the first pedal mounting portion and the second pedal mounting portion.

[0025] With the coupling unit according to the eleventh aspect, the anti-slip portion engaging part of the first coupling member is appropriately positioned relative to the pedal main body, and the first coupling member can be securely attached to the pedal main body.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the third to eleventh aspects is configured so that: the biasing member is provided on the shaft.

[0027] With the coupling unit according to the twelfth aspect, the biasing member can reliably bias the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position, and when the coupling unit is detached from the pedal, the biasing member remains attached to the remainder of the coupling unit.

[0028] In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to the twelfth aspect is configured so that the biasing member includes a plurality of springs operatively provided between the first coupling member and the second coupling member.

[0029] With the coupling unit according to the thirteenth aspect, the biasing member can reliably bias the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position with an appropriate biasing force.

[0030] In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to the thirteenth aspect is configured so that each of the plurality of springs includes a winding portion provided on the shaft.

[0031] With the coupling unit according to the fourteenth aspect, the coiled portion of the spring exerts a force on the shaft to help reduce unintentional axial movement of the shaft relative to the first coupling member and the second coupling member.

[0032] In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to any one of the third to fourteenth aspects further includes a biasing force adjuster provided between the biasing member and the second coupling member.

[0033] With the coupling unit according to the fifteenth aspect, the biasing force of the biasing member can be customized by the user.

[0034] In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the coupling unit according to the second aspect further includes a biasing member that biases the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position.

[0035] With the coupling unit according to the sixteenth aspect, after the anti-slip portion engaging operation and / or the anti-slip portion disengaging operation, the second coupling member can reliably return to the anti-slip portion holding position to fix the anti-slip portion.

[0036] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, a pedal comprises a coupling unit according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects, a pedal shaft and a pedal body. The pedal shaft has a rotation center axis. The pedal body is rotatably supported relative to the pedal shaft to rotate around the rotation center axis. The coupling unit is attached to the pedal body.

[0037] With the pedal according to the seventeenth aspect, the coupling unit can be easily attached to the pedal main body of the pedal.

[0038] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a pedal comprises a coupling unit according to the second aspect, a pedal shaft and a pedal body. The pedal shaft has a rotation center axis. The pedal body is rotatably supported relative to the pedal shaft to rotate around the rotation center axis. The coupling unit is attached to the pedal body.

[0039] With the pedal according to the eighteenth aspect, the coupling unit can be easily attached to the pedal main body of the pedal.

[0040] In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the pedal according to the eighteenth aspect is configured so that: the coupling unit further includes a biasing member that biases the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position.

[0041] With the pedal according to the nineteenth aspect, after the anti-slip portion engaging operation and / or the anti-slip portion disengaging operation, the second coupling member can be reliably returned to the anti-slip portion retaining position to fix the anti-slip portion.

[0042] Moreover, from the detailed description of preferred embodiments of the connecting unit and the pedal disclosed below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed connecting unit for the pedal assembly and the disclosed pedal will become apparent to those skilled in the art. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure.

[0044] Figure 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) equipped with a pedal assembly including a pair of pedals each having a coupling unit according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 2 A vehicle equipped with Figure 1 The pedal assembly is shown in profile of a human powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) to illustrate a center plane vertically bisecting the frame of the human powered vehicle.

[0046] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a pedal assembly is shown with one of the pedals coupled to a crank arm and a cleat coupled to a cycling shoe.

[0047] Figure 4 According to the first embodiment Figure 1 A top view of the pedal assembly is shown.

[0048] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A longitudinal sectional view of one of the pedals of the pedal assembly shown in , wherein the anti-slip portion is shown in phantom and is engaging with the coupling unit, wherein the second coupling member of the coupling unit is in the anti-slip portion retaining position.

[0049] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 , wherein the anti-slip portion is shown in dotted lines and the anti-slip portion is disengaged from the coupling unit, thereby causing the second coupling member of the coupling unit to be disengaged from the coupling unit. Figure 5 The anti-slip holding position is shown pivoted to an anti-slip unholding position.

[0050] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 and Figure 6 A perspective view of a pedal is shown with the coupling unit removed from the pedal body.

[0051] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A rear perspective view of the coupling unit is shown.

[0052] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A front perspective view of the coupling unit is shown.

[0053] Fig.10 yes Figures 7 to 9 A top view of the coupling unit is shown.

[0054] Fig.11 yes Figures 7 to 10 A bottom view of the coupling unit is shown.

[0055] Fig.12 yes Figures 7 to 11 A side view of the coupling unit is shown.

[0056] Fig.13 yes Figures 7 to 12 An exploded perspective view of the coupling unit is shown.

[0057] Fig.14 yes Figures 7 to 13 A rear perspective view of the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the shaft of the coupling unit is shown.

[0058] Fig.15 is along Fig.14 The section line 15-15 is seen Figures 7 to 14 A cross-sectional view of a first coupling member, a second coupling member and a shaft of a coupling unit is shown.

[0059] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 An exploded cross-sectional view of the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the shaft is shown.

[0060] Fig.17 is with Fig.15 A similar cross-sectional view of a first coupling member, a second coupling member and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a first variation.

[0061] Fig.18 is with Fig.15 and Fig.17 A similar cross-sectional view of a first coupling member, a second coupling member and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a second variation.

[0062] Fig.19 is with Fig.15 , Fig.17 and Fig.18 A similar cross-sectional view of the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the shaft for a coupling unit according to a third variation.

[0063] Fig. 20 is with Fig.15 and Figures 17 to 19 A similar cross-sectional view of a first coupling member, a second coupling member and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a fourth variation.

[0064] Fig.21 is with Fig.15 and Figures 17 to 20 A similar cross-sectional view of a first coupling member, a second coupling member and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a fifth variation.

[0065] Fig. 22 is with Fig.15 and Figures 17 to 21 A similar cross-sectional view of the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the shaft for a coupling unit according to a sixth variation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] 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 (eg, bicycles) from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is provided for illustration purpose only and not for limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0067] First reference Figure 1 , a human-powered vehicle V (e.g., a bicycle) equipped with a pedal assembly 10 according to the first embodiment is shown. In other words, the pedal assembly 10 is configured to be used with the human-powered vehicle V. For example, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the human-powered vehicle V is an electric-assisted mountain bike (i.e., an off-road bike). Alternatively, the human-powered vehicle V may be a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a recumbent bike, or another type of off-road bike, such as a road off-road bike. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle V is not limited. The human-powered vehicle V includes, for example, a single-wheeled bicycle, a vehicle with three or more wheels. Here, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle that at least partially uses human power as a driving power for traveling and includes an electric drive unit that assists human power. In particular, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as a driving power is not included in the human-powered vehicle of the present disclosure. More specifically, in the embodiment described below, the human-powered vehicle V is an electric-assisted bicycle (E-bike).

[0068] As in Figure 1 As seen in FIG. 1 , the human-powered vehicle V includes a vehicle body equipped with a plurality of vehicle components. Figure 1 As seen in FIG. 1 , the vehicle body has a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (swing arm) which is swingably mounted to the rear section of the front frame body FB so that the rear frame body RB can pivot relative to the front frame body FB. The rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear frame body RB, and the front wheel FW is mounted to the front frame body FB via the front suspension FS. The bicycle seat or saddle S is adjustably mounted to the front frame body FB through an adjustable seat post SP. The rear suspension is provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control the movement of the rear frame body RB relative to the front frame body FB. That is, the rear suspension is configured to absorb impact applied to the rear wheel RW. The front suspension FS is pivotally mounted to the front fork tube of the front frame body FB. The handlebar H is mounted to the upper end of the steering column steering tube of the front suspension FS. The front suspension FS is configured to absorb impact applied to the front wheel FW. The front wheel FW is mounted to the lower end of the front suspension FS. The rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear end portion of the rear frame body RB.

[0069] The human-powered vehicle V also includes a power transmission system DT and a drive unit DU operably connected to the power transmission system DT. The drive unit DU is also referred to as an electric assist unit. Here, for example, the power transmission system DT is a chain drive type, which includes a crank C, a front sprocket FSP, a plurality of rear sprockets RSP and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank shaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crank shaft CA1 is rotatably supported to the front frame body FB via the electric assist unit DU. The crank arms CA2 are arranged on opposite ends of the crank shaft CA1.

[0070] Pedal 12A is rotatably connected to the distal end of one of the crank arms CA2, and pedal 12B is rotatably connected to the distal end of the other crank arm in the crank arm CA2. The pedal assembly 10 basically includes pedals 12A and 12B. The power transmission system DT can be selected from any type and can be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type. Here, the human-powered vehicle V also includes: a front derailleur, which is attached to the front frame body FB, for switching the chain CN between the front sprockets FSP; and a rear derailleur RD, which is attached to the rear frame body RB, for switching the chain CN between the rear sprockets RSP. The front derailleur and the rear derailleur RD are a type of speed change device or transmission device for changing the speed ratio of the power transmission system DT.

[0071] A front sprocket FSP is provided on the crank C to rotate integrally with the crankshaft CA1. A rear sprocket RSP is provided on the hub of the rear wheel RW. A chain CN travels around the front sprocket FSP and the rear sprocket RSP. A human driving force is applied to the pedals 12A and 12B by a rider or user of the human-powered vehicle V, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FSP, the chain CN and the rear sprocket RSP.

[0072] The drive unit DU is actuated in a conventional manner to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle V. The drive unit DU is actuated, for example, according to the human-powered driving force applied to the pedals 12A and 12B. The drive unit DU includes an electric motor operably coupled to the front sprocket FSP. The drive unit DU is actuated by electric power supplied from a power source.

[0073] refer to Figure 2, shows the outline of the human-powered vehicle V when viewed from the front of the human-powered vehicle V and along the longitudinal direction to show the center plane CP that vertically bisects the frame F of the human-powered vehicle V. The center plane CP runs through the center of the frame F in the width direction of the frame F. The center plane CP divides the left side from the right side of the human-powered vehicle V. The following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "backward", "left", "right", "lateral", "longitudinal", "upward", and "downward", and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions determined based on a rider sitting upright on the seat S of the human-powered vehicle V and facing the handlebars H of the human-powered vehicle V at the same time.

[0074] Reference now Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the pedal 12A of the pedal assembly 10 is a left pedal. The pedal 12A is attached to a crank arm CA2 disposed on the left side of the human-powered vehicle V. The pedal assembly 10 also includes a pair of anti-skid portions 16 (only one anti-skid portion is shown). Each of the anti-skid portions 16 is attached to the bottom of the shoe S in a conventional manner, such as using a plurality of fasteners (e.g., screws). Figure 3 , the pedal 12A includes a coupling unit 20 provided for the pedal assembly 10. Therefore, the pedal 12A is a clip-on pedal or a step-in pedal configured to releasably fix the anti-slip portion 16 to the pedal using the coupling unit 20. In other words, the coupling unit 20 releasably couples the anti-slip portion 16 of the shoe S to the pedal assembly 10.

[0075] Reference now Figure 4 , the pedal assembly 10 is shown as including both the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B. However, the pedal assembly 10 may include only one of the pedals 12A and 12B with or without one of the anti-slip portions 16. In other words, the pedal assembly 10 includes at least one of the pedals 12A and 12B, and optionally includes at least one of the anti-slip portions 16. As shown in Figure 4 As seen in FIG. 1 , the pedal 12B is a right pedal that includes a coupling unit 22 provided for the pedal assembly 10. Therefore, the pedal 12B is a clip-on pedal or a step-in pedal configured to releasably fix the anti-slip portion 16 thereto using the coupling unit 22. Figure 4 As seen in FIG. 1 , pedal 12B is a mirror image of pedal 12A. Thus, the description of pedal 12A applies to both the left and right pedals of human powered vehicle V. Therefore, only one bicycle pedal is shown in the drawings and discussed below.

[0076] Here, the pedal 12A further includes an additional coupling unit 24 attached to the side of the pedal 12A opposite to the coupling unit 20. The additional coupling unit 24 is configured to releasably fix the anti-slip portion 16 to the pedal 12A. The coupling unit 20 and the additional coupling unit 24 are identical in structure, and therefore, the description of the coupling unit 20 is applicable to the additional coupling unit 24.

[0077] Likewise, the pedal 12B further includes an additional coupling unit 26 attached to a side of the pedal 12B opposite to the coupling unit 22. The additional coupling unit 26 is configured to releasably fix the anti-slip portion 16 to the pedal 12B. The coupling unit 22 and the additional coupling unit 26 are identical in structure, and therefore, the description of the coupling unit 22 is applicable to the additional coupling unit 26.

[0078] Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, pedal 12A and pedal 12B are bilateral step-in pedals, which means that anti-skid portion 16 can be releasably fixed to either side of both sides of pedal 12A and pedal 12B. Therefore, pedal 12A and pedal 12B are particularly designed to be used with off-road bicycles rather than with road bicycles. However, it will be apparent to the technicians in the field of human-powered vehicles that the configuration of pedal 12A and pedal 12B can be modified to the pedal of road bicycle type according to needs and / or expectations. In other words, it is apparent that pedal 12A and pedal 12B can be designed so that anti-skid portion 16 is only connected to one side of pedal 12A and pedal 12B.

[0079] Basically, reference Figures 3 to 7 , the pedal 12A includes a pedal shaft 30 and a pedal body 32. The pedal shaft 30 has a rotation center axis RA. The pedal body 32 is rotatably supported relative to the pedal shaft 30 to rotate around the rotation center axis RA. The connecting unit 20 is attached to the pedal body 32. The additional connecting unit 26 is attached to the pedal body 32 by a plurality of fasteners 34 (e.g., four screws) in the same manner as the connecting unit 20. The axial direction X1 of the pedal 12A refers to a direction parallel to the rotation center axis RA. The longitudinal direction Y1 of the pedal 12A refers to a direction perpendicular to the rotation center axis RA and parallel to a reference plane PL that passes through the rotation center axis RA and bisects the pedal body 32.

[0080] The pedal shaft 30 is a rigid member that rotatably supports the pedal body 32 in a conventional manner. The pedal shaft 30 is preferably made of a hard rigid material such as a metal material or a fiber reinforced material. The pedal shaft 30 has an external thread section 36 and a support section 38. The external thread section 36 includes a left-handed thread that is configured to be screwed into the crank arm CA2 on the left side of the human-powered vehicle V. The support section 38 is used to rotatably support the pedal body 32 via one or more bearings.

[0081] The pedal body 32 is a rigid member rotatably supported on the pedal shaft 30. The pedal body 32 is preferably made of a hard rigid material such as a metal material or a fiber reinforced material. The pedal body 32 includes an outer body portion 40, an inner body portion 41, a first body portion 42, a second body portion 43 and an intermediate body portion 44. The outer body portion 40 extends in the longitudinal direction Y1. The inner body portion 41 extends in the longitudinal direction Y1. The first body portion 42 extends in the axial direction X1. The second body portion extends in the axial direction X1. The intermediate body portion 44 is configured to receive the pedal shaft 30 and extend in the axial direction X1. The intermediate body portion 44 is positioned between the outer body portion 40 and the inner body portion 41 and between the first body portion 42 and the second body portion 43. Here, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, the second body portion 43 and the intermediate body portion 44 are integrally formed as a one-piece member. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42 and the second body portion 43 are connected together to form an annular tread retainer. The middle body portion 44 is connected to the outer body portion 40 and the inner body portion 41 to divide the pedal body 32 into the first body portion and the second body portion.

[0082] The pedal body 32 has a first shoe placement surface 45 and a second shoe placement surface 46. The second shoe placement surface 46 is opposite to the first shoe placement surface 45. The first shoe placement surface 45 and the second shoe placement surface 46 are defined by the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, the second body portion 43, and the middle body portion 44. The coupling unit 20 is attached to the first shoe placement surface 45 on the middle body portion 44. The additional coupling unit 24 is attached to the second shoe placement surface 46 on the middle body portion 44.

[0083] Here, the middle body portion 44 of the pedal body 32 includes a positioning profile 48. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the middle body portion 44 of the pedal body 32 also includes another positioning profile 49. The positioning profile 48 and the other positioning profile 49 are configured to cooperate with the coupling unit 20. The positioning profile 48 and the other positioning profile 49 are spaced apart along the axial direction X1 on the middle body portion 44 to form a coupling unit receiving space therebetween. The positioning profile 48 has a profile different from the other positioning profile 49. For example, the positioning profile 48 has a first convex surface 48a, while the other positioning profile 49 has a second convex surface 49a. The first convex surface 48a has a smaller curvature than the second convex surface 49a. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, both the first shoe placement surface 45 and the second shoe placement surface 46 on the middle body portion 44 include the positioning profile 48 and the other positioning profile 49. In this way, the coupling unit 20 and the additional coupling unit 24 can be attached to the first shoe placement surface 45 and the second shoe placement surface 46 on the middle body portion 44.

[0084] refer to Figure 4 , the pedal 12B includes a pedal shaft 50 and a pedal body 52. ​​The pedal shaft 50 has a rotation center axis RB. The pedal body 52 is rotatably supported relative to the pedal shaft 50 to rotate around the rotation center axis RB. The connecting unit 22 and the additional connecting unit 26 are each detachably attached to the pedal body 52 by a plurality of fasteners (e.g., four screws). The connecting unit 22 and the additional connecting unit 26 are attached to the pedal body 52 in the same manner as the connecting unit 22. However, the connecting unit 22 and the additional connecting unit 26 are mirror images of the connecting unit 20 and the additional connecting unit 24. Therefore, the connecting unit 22 and the additional connecting unit 26 cannot be connected to the pedal body 32, and the connecting unit 20 and the additional connecting unit 24 cannot be connected to the pedal body 52.

[0085] Pedal axle 50 is identical to pedal axle 30, except that pedal axle 50 includes a right-hand thread configured to be screwed into crank arm CA2 on the right side of human-powered vehicle V. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, pedal axle 50 will not be further described herein. Pedal body 52 is identical to pedal body 32, except that pedal body 52 is a mirror image of pedal body 32 in the case where both pedal 12A and pedal 12B are attached to crank arm CA2. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, pedal body 52 will not be further described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, similar to pedal body 32, pedal body 52 is configured such that coupling unit 22 is attached to a first shoe placement surface on a middle body portion of pedal body 52, and additional coupling unit 26 is attached to a second shoe placement surface on a middle body portion of pedal body 52.

[0086] Now, refer to Figures 7 to 14The coupling unit 20 is further described in detail. The coupling unit 20 basically includes a first coupling member 60, a second coupling member 62, and a shaft 64. The first coupling member 60 is configured to be provided to the pedal body 32 of the pedal assembly 10. The second coupling member 62 is coupled to the first coupling member 60. The first coupling member 60 is configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion 16 to the coupling unit 20. The second coupling member 62 is configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion 16 to the coupling unit 20. The second coupling member 62 is capable of pivoting between an anti-slip portion holding position and an anti-slip portion non-holding position.

[0087] Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the coupling unit 20 further includes a biasing member 66. The coupling unit 20 further includes a biasing force regulator 68 disposed between the biasing member 66 and the second coupling member 62. The biasing member 66 biases the second coupling member 62 toward the anti-slip portion to maintain position. The biasing force regulator 68 regulates the biasing force applied to the second coupling member 62 by the biasing member 66. The biasing member 66 is disposed on the shaft 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 66 includes a plurality of springs 66A and 66B. The springs 66A and 66B are operatively disposed between the first coupling member 60 and the second coupling member 62. Each of the plurality of springs includes a winding portion disposed on the shaft 64. Specifically, the spring 66A includes a winding portion 66A1 disposed on the shaft 64, a first leg portion 66A2 extending from one end of the winding portion 66A1, and a second leg portion 66A3 extending from the other end of the winding portion 66A1. The first leg portion 66A2 contacts the first coupling member 60. The second leg 66A3 contacts the biasing force adjuster 68. Similarly, the spring 66B includes a coil 66B1 disposed on the shaft 64, a first leg 66B2 extending from one end of the coil 66B1, and a second leg 66B3 extending from the other end of the coil 66B1. The first leg 66B2 contacts the first coupling member 60. The second leg 66B3 contacts the biasing force adjuster 68.

[0088] The biasing force adjuster 68 basically includes an adjusting screw 68a and an adjusting nut 68b. The adjusting screw 68a has a head portion engaged in the opening of the second coupling member 62 and a threaded shaft threadedly engaged with the adjusting nut 68b. The second leg portions 66A3 and 66B3 contact the adjusting nut 68b. By rotating the adjusting screw 68a, the adjusting nut 68b moves along the threaded shaft of the adjusting screw 68a to increase or decrease the biasing force applied to the second coupling member 62 by the springs 66A and 66B. Since the biasing force adjuster is well known in pedals, the biasing force adjuster 68 will not be described in further detail here.

[0089] As in Fig.13 , Fig.15 and Fig.16As seen in FIG. 1 , the first coupling member 60 has a first hole 71 and a second hole 72. The second coupling member 62 has a third hole 73 and a fourth hole 74. The shaft 64 has a central axis A1. The central axis A1 defines the axial direction of the shaft 64. The shaft 64 has a first axial end 64a and a second axial end 64b opposite to the first axial end 64a. The shaft 64 is arranged in the first hole 71, the second hole 72, the third hole 73 and the fourth hole 74 so that the second coupling member 62 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 60 includes a first pedal mounting portion 76, a second pedal mounting portion 78 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pedal mounting portion 76 includes a first end portion 76a having a first hole 71. The second pedal mounting portion 78 includes a second end portion 78a having a second hole 72. The shaft 64 is arranged in the first hole 71 and the second hole 72.

[0090] The anti-slip portion engaging portion 80 connects the first pedal mounting portion 76 and the second pedal mounting portion 78. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 80 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip portion engaging portion 80 has an abutment surface 80a and a retaining surface 80b. The abutment surface 80a is a concave surface that limits the forward movement of the anti-slip portion 16 relative to the pedal body 32. The retaining surface 80b is a lower side surface that contacts the front end surface of the anti-slip portion 16 to limit the movement of the anti-slip portion 16 away from the pedal body 32.

[0091] Moreover, the first coupling member 60 includes an outer portion 82 and an inner portion 84. The outer portion 82 and the inner portion 84 are both bent toward each other. Here, the curvature of the outer portion 82 is different from the curvature of the inner portion 84. In particular, the outer portion 82 includes an outer engagement recess 82a configured to engage with the positioning contour portion 48 of the pedal body 32. The inner portion 84 includes an inner engagement recess 84a configured to engage with another positioning contour portion 49 of the pedal body 32. The inner engagement recess 82a is different in shape from the outer engagement recess.

[0092] The second coupling member 62 is capable of pivoting around the center axis A1 of the shaft 64. Basically, the second coupling member 62 includes a third hole 73 and a fourth hole 74. The shaft 64 is disposed in the third hole 73 and the fourth hole 74. More specifically, the second coupling member 62 includes a first pedal mounting portion 86, a second pedal mounting portion 88, and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 90. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 80 is configured to engage the rear end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip portion engaging portion 90 of the second coupling member 62 includes a recessed portion 92. The recessed portion 92 is configured to abut against the anti-slip portion 16 at least during the transition between the anti-slip portion holding position and the anti-slip portion non-holding position. Here, the recessed portion 92 defines an abutment surface that limits the anti-slip portion 16 from moving backward relative to the pedal body 32. In particular, the recessed portion 92 has a first straight portion 92a, a second straight portion 92b, and an intermediate portion 92c. The intermediate portion 92c connects the first straight portion 92a and the second straight portion 92b. Basically, the first straight portion 92a, the second straight portion 92b and the intermediate portion 92c define a concave surface. The anti-slip portion engagement portion 90 of the second coupling member 62 also includes a retaining surface 94, which is a lower side surface that contacts the rear end surface of the anti-slip portion 16 to restrict the anti-slip portion 16 from moving away from the pedal body 32.

[0093] Reference now Fig.15 , the shaft 64 is preferably non-rotatably coupled to the first coupling member 60 or the second coupling member 62. For example, the shaft 64 is press-fitted to at least one of the first hole 71, the second hole 71, the third hole 73, and the fourth hole 74. In the first embodiment, the shaft 64 is press-fitted to the second hole 72 so that the shaft 64 is non-rotatably coupled to the first coupling member 60. In the first embodiment, the shaft 64 is loosely fitted to the first hole 71, the third hole 73, and the fourth hole 74. As a result, the second coupling member 62 can pivot on the shaft 64. Moreover, in the first embodiment, the first hole 71 is arranged adjacent to the third hole 73 relative to the axial direction defined by the center axis A1 of the shaft 64. The second hole 72 is adjacent to the fourth hole 74 relative to the axial direction. In particular, the first pedal mounting portion 76 and the second pedal mounting portion 78 are located between the first pedal mounting portion 86 and the second pedal mounting portion 88. Therefore, the first hole 71 and the second hole 72 are located between the third hole and the fourth hole 74. Alternatively, the first pedal mounting portion 86 and the second pedal mounting portion 88 may be located between the first pedal mounting portion 76 and the second pedal mounting portion 78. In this alternative, the third hole 73 and the fourth hole 74 may be located between the first hole 71 and the second hole 72. Of course, various arrangements of the first pedal mounting portion 76, the second pedal mounting portion 78, the first pedal mounting portion 86 and the second pedal mounting portion 88 are possible as needed and / or desired.

[0094] However, the connection between the shaft 64 and the first and second coupling members 60 and 62 can be achieved in various ways. Specifically, as in the first embodiment, the shaft 64 is loosely fitted to the first, third and fourth holes 71, 73 and 74, and the shaft 64 is press-fitted to the second hole 72.

[0095] Reference now Fig.17 , a coupling unit 120 according to a first variation is shown. The coupling unit 120 basically includes a first coupling member 160, a second coupling member 162, and a shaft 164. The first coupling member 160 is the same as the first coupling member 60 discussed above, except that the connection of the shaft 164 to the first coupling member 160 and the second coupling member 162 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the components of the coupling unit 120 that are the same as the components of the coupling unit 20 will not be described or shown here.

[0096] The first coupling member 160 has a first hole 171 and a second hole 172. The second coupling member 162 has a third hole 173 and a fourth hole 174. The shaft 164 has a first axial end 164a and a second axial end 164b opposite to the first axial end 164a. The shaft 164 is arranged in the first hole 171, the second hole 172, the third hole 173 and the fourth hole 174 so that the second coupling member 162 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 160 includes a first pedal mounting portion 176, a second pedal mounting portion 178 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 180. The first pedal mounting portion 176 includes a first end portion 176a having a first hole 171. The second pedal mounting portion 178 includes a second end portion 178a having a second hole 172. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 180 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip engaging portion 180 has an abutment surface 180a and a retaining surface 180b similar to the anti-slip engaging portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 160 is identical to the first coupling member 60 except that the size of the first hole 171 and the size of the second hole 172 have been changed, as explained below.

[0097] Here, the second coupling member 162 is the same as the second coupling member 62. Similar to the second coupling member 62, the second coupling member 162 includes a first pedal mounting portion 186 having a third hole 173, a second pedal mounting portion 188 having a fourth hole 174, and an anti-slip portion engaging portion.

[0098] In the first modification, the shaft 164 is press-fitted into the first hole 171 so that the shaft 164 is non-rotatably coupled to the first coupling member 160. In the first modification, the shaft 164 is loosely fitted into the second hole 172, the third hole 173, and the fourth hole 174. Therefore, the second coupling member 162 can pivot on the shaft 164. Of course, the shaft 164 can be press-fitted into the second hole 172. Therefore, the shaft 164 is press-fitted into the first hole 171 in the case where the shaft 164 is press-fitted into the second hole 172 or in the case where the shaft 164 is loosely fitted into the second hole 172, the third hole 173, and the fourth hole 171.

[0099] Reference now Fig.18 , a coupling unit 220 according to a second variation is shown. The coupling unit 220 basically includes a first coupling member 260, a second coupling member 262, and a shaft 264. The first coupling member 260 is the same as the first coupling member 60 discussed above, except that the connection of the shaft 264 to the first coupling member 260 and the second coupling member 262 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the components of the coupling unit 220 that are the same as the components of the coupling unit 20 will not be described or shown here.

[0100] The first coupling member 260 has a first hole 271 and a second hole 272. The second coupling member 262 has a third hole 273 and a fourth hole 274. The shaft 264 has a first axial end 264a and a second axial end 264b opposite to the first axial end 264a. The shaft 264 is arranged in the first hole 271, the second hole 272, the third hole 273 and the fourth hole 274 so that the second coupling member 262 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 260 includes a first pedal mounting portion 276, a second pedal mounting portion 278 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 280. The first pedal mounting portion 276 includes a first end portion 276a having a first hole 271. The second pedal mounting portion 278 includes a second end portion 278a having a second hole 272. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 280 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip engaging portion 280 has an abutment surface 280a and a retaining surface 280b similar to the anti-slip engaging portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 260 is the same as the first coupling member 60 except that the size of the first hole 271 has been changed, as explained below.

[0101] Here, the second coupling member 262 is the same as the second coupling member 62. Similar to the second coupling member 62, the second coupling member 262 includes a first pedal mounting portion 286 having a third hole 273, a second pedal mounting portion 288 having a fourth hole 274, and an anti-slip portion engaging portion.

[0102] In the second modification, the shaft 264 is press-fitted into the first hole 271 and the second hole 272, so that the shaft 264 is non-rotatably coupled to the first coupling member 260. In the second modification, the shaft 264 is loosely fitted into the third hole 273 and the fourth hole 274. As a result, the second coupling member 262 can pivot on the shaft 264. Therefore, in the case where the shaft 264 is press-fitted into the second hole 272 ( Fig.18 The second variant in the embodiment of the present invention) or the shaft is loosely fitted into the second hole, the third hole and the fourth hole ( Fig.17 In the case of the first variation), the shaft 264 is press-fitted into the first hole 271.

[0103] Reference now Fig.19 , a coupling unit 320 according to a third variation is shown. The coupling unit 320 basically includes a first coupling member 360, a second coupling member 362, and a shaft 364. The first coupling member 360 is the same as the first coupling member 60 discussed above, except that the connection of the shaft 364 to the first coupling member 360 and the second coupling member 362 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the components of the coupling unit 320 that are the same as those of the coupling unit 20 will not be described or shown here.

[0104] The first coupling member 360 has a first hole 371 and a second hole 372. The second coupling member 362 has a third hole 373 and a fourth hole 374. The shaft 364 has a first axial end 364a and a second axial end 364b opposite to the first axial end 364a. The shaft 364 is arranged in the first hole 371, the second hole 372, the third hole 373 and the fourth hole 374 so that the second coupling member 362 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 360 includes a first pedal mounting portion 376, a second pedal mounting portion 378 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 380. The first pedal mounting portion 376 includes a first end portion 376a having a first hole 371. The second pedal mounting portion 378 includes a second end portion 378a having a second hole 372. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 380 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip engaging portion 380 has an abutment surface 380a and a retaining surface 380b similar to the anti-slip engaging portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 360 is identical to the first coupling member 60 except that the size of the first hole 371 and the size of the second hole 372 have been changed, as explained below.

[0105] Here, the second coupling member 362 is identical to the second coupling member 62 except that the size of the fourth hole 374 has been changed, as explained below. Similar to the second coupling member 62, the second coupling member 362 includes a first pedal mounting portion 386 having a third hole 373, a second pedal mounting portion 388 having a fourth hole 374, and an anti-slip portion engagement portion.

[0106] In the third modification, the shaft 364 is press-fitted into the fourth hole 374 so that the shaft 364 is non-rotatably coupled to the second coupling member 362. In the third modification, the shaft 364 is loosely fitted into the first hole 371, the second hole 372, and the third hole 373. As a result, the second coupling member 362 can pivot on the shaft 364. Therefore, the shaft 364 is press-fitted into the fourth hole 374 while the shaft 364 is loosely fitted into the first hole 371, the second hole 372, and the third hole 373.

[0107] Reference now Fig. 20 , a coupling unit 420 according to a fourth variation is shown. The coupling unit 420 basically includes a first coupling member 460, a second coupling member 462, and a shaft 464. The first coupling member 460 is the same as the first coupling member 60 discussed above, except that the connection of the shaft 464 to the first coupling member 460 and the second coupling member 462 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the components of the coupling unit 420 that are the same as the components of the coupling unit 20 will not be described or shown here.

[0108] The first coupling member 460 has a first hole 471 and a second hole 472. The second coupling member 462 has a third hole 473 and a fourth hole 474. The shaft 464 has a first axial end 464a and a second axial end 464b opposite to the first axial end 464a. The shaft 464 is arranged in the first hole 471, the second hole 472, the third hole 473 and the fourth hole 474 so that the second coupling member 462 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 460 includes a first pedal mounting portion 476, a second pedal mounting portion 478 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 480. The first pedal mounting portion 476 includes a first end portion 476a having a first hole 471. The second pedal mounting portion 478 includes a second end portion 478a having a second hole 472. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 480 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip engaging portion 480 has an abutment surface 480a and a retaining surface 480b similar to the anti-slip engaging portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 460 is the same as the first coupling member 60 except that the size of the second hole 472 has been changed, as explained below.

[0109] Here, the second coupling member 462 is identical to the second coupling member 62 except that the size of the third hole 473 has been changed, as explained below. Similar to the second coupling member 62, the second coupling member 462 includes a first pedal mounting portion 486 having a third hole 473, a second pedal mounting portion 488 having a fourth hole 474, and an anti-slip portion engagement portion.

[0110] In the fourth modification, the shaft 464 is press-fitted into the third hole 473 so that the shaft 464 is non-rotatably coupled to the second coupling member 462. In the fourth modification, the shaft 464 is loosely fitted into the first hole 471, the second hole 472, and the fourth hole 474. As a result, the second coupling member 462 can pivot on the shaft 464. Therefore, in the case where the shaft 464 is press-fitted into the fourth hole 474 or in the case where the shaft 464 is loosely fitted into the first hole 471, the second hole 472, and the fourth hole 474, the shaft 464 is press-fitted into the third hole 473.

[0111] Reference now Fig.21 , a coupling unit 520 according to a fifth variation is shown. The coupling unit 520 basically includes a first coupling member 560, a second coupling member 562, and a shaft 564. The first coupling member 560 is the same as the first coupling member 60 discussed above, except that the connection of the shaft 564 to the first coupling member 560 and the second coupling member 562 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the components of the coupling unit 520 that are the same as those of the coupling unit 20 will not be described or shown here.

[0112] The first coupling member 560 has a first hole 571 and a second hole 572. The second coupling member 562 has a third hole 573 and a fourth hole 574. The shaft 564 has a first axial end 564a and a second axial end 564b opposite to the first axial end 564a. The shaft 564 is arranged in the first hole 571, the second hole 572, the third hole 573 and the fourth hole 574 so that the second coupling member 562 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 560 includes a first pedal mounting portion 576, a second pedal mounting portion 578 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 580. The first pedal mounting portion 576 includes a first end portion 576a having a first hole 571. The second pedal mounting portion 578 includes a second end portion 578a having a second hole 572. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 580 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip engaging portion 580 has an abutment surface 580a and a retaining surface 580b similar to the anti-slip engaging portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 560 is the same as the first coupling member 60 except that the size of the second hole 572 has been changed, as explained below.

[0113] Here, the second coupling member 562 is the same as the second coupling member 62 except that the size of the third hole 573 and the size of the fourth hole 574 have been changed, as explained below. Similar to the second coupling member 62, the second coupling member 562 includes a first pedal mounting portion 586 having a third hole 573, a second pedal mounting portion 588 having a fourth hole 574, and an anti-slip portion engagement portion.

[0114] In the fifth modification, the shaft 564 is press-fitted to the third hole 573 and the fourth hole 574 so that the shaft 564 is non-rotatably coupled to the second coupling member 562. In the fifth modification, the shaft 564 is loosely fitted to the first hole 571 and the second hole 572. As a result, the second coupling member 562 can pivot on the shaft 564.

[0115] Reference now Fig. 22 , a coupling unit 620 according to a sixth variation is shown. The coupling unit 620 basically includes a first coupling member 660, a second coupling member 662, and a shaft 664. The first coupling member 660 is the same as the first coupling member 60 discussed above, except that the connection of the shaft 664 to the first coupling member 660 and the second coupling member 662 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the components of the coupling unit 620 that are the same as the components of the coupling unit 20 will not be described or shown here.

[0116] The first coupling member 660 has a first hole 671 and a second hole 672. The second coupling member 662 has a third hole 673 and a fourth hole 674. The shaft 664 has a first axial end 664a and a second axial end 664b opposite to the first axial end 664a. The shaft 664 is arranged in the first hole 671, the second hole 672, the third hole 673 and the fourth hole 674 so that the second coupling member 662 can pivot around the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 660 includes a first pedal mounting portion 676, a second pedal mounting portion 678 and an anti-slip portion engaging portion 680. The first pedal mounting portion 676 includes a first end portion 676a having a first hole 671. The second pedal mounting portion 678 includes a second end portion 678a having a second hole 672. The anti-slip portion engaging portion 680 is configured to engage the front end portion of the anti-slip portion 16. Specifically, the anti-slip engaging portion 680 has an abutment surface 680a and a retaining surface 680b similar to the anti-slip engaging portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 660 is the same as the first coupling member 60 except that the size of the second hole 672 has been changed as explained below.

[0117] Here, the second coupling member 662 is the same as the second coupling member 62. Similar to the second coupling member 62, the second coupling member 662 includes a first pedal mounting portion 686 having a third hole 673, a second pedal mounting portion 688 having a fourth hole 674, and an anti-slip portion engaging portion.

[0118] In the sixth modification, the shaft 664 is loosely fitted to the first, second, third, and fourth holes 671, 672, 673, and 674. Here, both the first and second axial ends 664a, 664b are press-fastened to one of the first and second coupling members 660, 662.

[0119] 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 claimed features, elements, parts, groups, integers and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other undeclared features, elements, parts, groups, integers and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising", "having" and their derivatives. Moreover, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "part", "section", "portion", "member" or "element" may also have the dual meaning of a single part or multiple parts when used in the singular.

[0120] 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 a coupling unit. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe the pedals and / or coupling unit should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal plane and equipped with pedals. The terms "left" and "right" are used to mean "right" when referenced from the right side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle), and are used to mean "left" when referenced from the left side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle).

[0121] As used in the present disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired options. For one example, the phrase "at least one of..." as used in the present disclosure means "only one single option" or "both of the two options" if the number of its options is two. For another example, the phrase "at least one of..." as used in the present disclosure means "only one single option" or "any combination of equal to or greater than two options" if the number of its options is equal to or greater than three. Moreover, the term "and / or" as used in the present disclosure means "any one or both of...". 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" includes (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) three of A, B, and C. In other words, in the present disclosure, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B".

[0122] Moreover, it should 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 other components. 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.

[0123] As used herein, the terms "attached" or "attached" encompass configurations where an element is directly fastened to another element by attaching it directly to the other element; where an element is indirectly fastened to the other element by attaching it to one or more intermediate elements, which in turn are attached to the other element; and where one element is integral with the other, i.e., the one element is essentially a part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meanings, such as "connect," "connect," "couple," "mount," "couple," "fix," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree, such as "substantially," "approximately," and "about," as used herein, refer to an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result will not be significantly changed.

[0124] Although only selected embodiments are selected to illustrate the present invention, it is obvious 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 the change does not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the components shown to be directly connected or in contact with each other may be provided with an intermediate structure between them, as long as the change does not substantially affect their intended function. 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. Not all advantages must appear in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature unique 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 concept embodied by one or more such features. Therefore, the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention is provided for illustration only, and not for limiting the invention defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A coupling unit for a pedal assembly configured for use with a human-powered vehicle, the coupling unit releasably coupling an anti-slip portion of a shoe to the pedal assembly, the coupling unit comprising: a first coupling member configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion to the coupling unit, the first coupling member configured to be provided to a pedal body of the pedal assembly, the first coupling member having a first hole and a second hole; a second coupling member configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion to the coupling unit, the second coupling member being pivotable between an anti-slip portion holding position and an anti-slip portion non-holding position, the second coupling member being coupled to the first coupling member, the second coupling member having a third hole and a fourth hole; and a shaft having a central axis, the shaft being disposed in the first hole, the second hole, the third hole, and the fourth hole so that the second coupling member can pivot about the central axis, The shaft is press-fitted into at least one of the first hole, the second hole, the third hole, and the fourth hole, wherein the shaft is press-fitted into the first hole, with the shaft press-fitted into the second hole or with the shaft loosely fitted into the second hole, the third hole and the fourth hole, In the case where the shaft is loosely fitted into the first hole, the third hole and the fourth hole, the shaft is press-fitted into the second hole, The shaft is press-fitted into the third hole with the shaft press-fitted into the fourth hole or with the shaft loosely fitted into the first hole, the second hole and the fourth hole, and With the shaft loosely fitted into the first hole, the second hole, and the third hole, the shaft is press-fitted into the fourth hole.

2. A coupling unit for a pedal assembly equipped with a human-powered vehicle, the coupling unit releasably coupling an anti-slip portion of a shoe to the pedal assembly, the coupling unit comprising: a first coupling member configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion to the coupling unit, the first coupling member configured to be provided to a pedal body of the pedal assembly, the first coupling member having a first hole and a second hole; a second coupling member configured to releasably couple the anti-slip portion to the coupling unit, the second coupling member being pivotable between an anti-slip portion holding position and an anti-slip portion non-holding position, the second coupling member being coupled to the first coupling member, the second coupling member having a third hole and a fourth hole; and a shaft having a central axis, the shaft being disposed in the first hole, the second hole, the third hole, and the fourth hole so that the second coupling member can pivot about the central axis, The shaft has a first axial end and a second axial end opposite the first axial end, both of which are press-fastened to one of the first coupling member and the second coupling member.

3. The coupling unit according to claim 1, further comprising: A biasing member biases the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position.

4. The coupling unit according to claim 1, wherein The first coupling member includes an outer portion and an inner portion, and Both the inner portion and the outer portion are curved toward each other.

5. The coupling unit according to claim 4, wherein The curvature of the inner portion is different from the curvature of the outer portion.

6. The coupling unit according to claim 4, wherein The inner portion includes an inner engagement recess configured to engage with a positioning contour portion of the pedal body, and The outer portion includes an outer engagement recess configured to engage with another positioning contour portion of the pedal body.

7. The coupling unit according to claim 6, wherein The inner engaging recess is different in shape from the outer engaging recess.

8. The coupling unit according to claim 1, wherein The first hole is disposed adjacent to the third hole with respect to an axial direction defined by the central axis of the shaft, and The second hole is adjacent to the fourth hole with respect to the axial direction.

9. The coupling unit according to claim 1, wherein The shaft is press-fitted into the first hole and the second hole.

10. The coupling unit according to claim 1, wherein The shaft is press-fitted into the third hole and the fourth hole.

11. The coupling unit according to claim 1, wherein The first coupling member includes a first pedal mounting portion, a second pedal mounting portion, and an anti-slip portion engaging portion connecting the first pedal mounting portion and the second pedal mounting portion.

12. The coupling unit according to claim 3, wherein The biasing member is disposed on the shaft.

13. The coupling unit according to claim 12, wherein The biasing member includes a plurality of springs operatively disposed between the first coupling member and the second coupling member.

14. The coupling unit according to claim 13, wherein Each of the plurality of springs includes a coiled portion disposed on the shaft.

15. The coupling unit according to claim 3, further comprising: A biasing force adjuster is disposed between the biasing member and the second coupling member.

16. The coupling unit according to claim 2, further comprising: A biasing member biases the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position.

17. A pedal, comprising: The coupling unit according to claim 1; a pedal shaft having a central axis of rotation; and A pedal main body is rotatably supported relative to the pedal shaft to rotate about the rotation center axis, and the coupling unit is attached to the pedal main body.

18. A pedal, comprising: The coupling unit according to claim 2; a pedal shaft having a central axis of rotation; and A pedal main body is rotatably supported relative to the pedal shaft to rotate about the rotation center axis, and the coupling unit is attached to the pedal main body.

19. The pedal of claim 18, wherein The coupling unit further includes a biasing member that biases the second coupling member toward the anti-slip portion holding position.

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