Device for centering and height adjustment of bicycle seat post

Abstract

A device for centering and adjusting the height of a bicycle seatpost, the device comprising at least the following elements: (a) a seatpost (1) comprising: (i) a longitudinal slot (1.1); and (ii) a plurality of perforations (1.2) arranged transversely along the longitudinal slot (1.1); (b) a stop (2) comprising: (i) a cross-sectional area (2.3); and (ii) at least one engagement element (2.1); (c) a tubular stop adapter (3) comprising: (i) a longitudinal cutout (3.2); (ii) an outer guide (3.3); and (iii) an inner stopper guide (3.4).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of bicycle components, and in particular to a device for setting the seatpost height and achieving proper seatpost alignment. Background Technology

[0002] For a variety of reasons, it is common for cyclists to frequently remove the seatpost (or seat tube). One of the main reasons for this practice is that the seatpost is extremely easy to remove; therefore, it is normal for users who leave their bicycles in public places or other unsafe areas to remove the seatpost to prevent them from being stolen.

[0003] Another reason also explains the need to frequently remove the seat post from the bicycle: there are bicycle models developed by the same applicant, such as those reflected in patent WO2015179994, which form a lock by using the seat post of the bicycle itself. In this context, the user must remove the tube to form the lock / bicycle (hereinafter referred to as the "YERKA" bicycle).

[0004] From the user's perspective, the problem with removing the seatpost is that when reinstalling it, the height and alignment of the tube must be readjusted to ensure the pedal position is optimal for their needs.

[0005] Currently, there are various solutions for fixing the height and / or centering of the seat; however, these solutions have many drawbacks.

[0006] For example, seatposts commonly include a digital ruler reference, allowing users to reinstall the saddle at the same height as before. Among other problems, this alternative requires the user to remember specific measurements from the previous seat installation. It also necessitates carefully determining the specific point where the user wants to install the saddle each time, and then locking the clamp that holds the seatpost precisely at the desired height relative to the bicycle's seat tube – a complex, time-consuming process prone to accuracy issues. Another problem with these solutions is that they do not allow for easy and proper alignment.

[0007] Other literature describes devices for setting the height and / or centering of a bicycle seatpost, but these have a number of drawbacks. One example is patent application EP 15152817.1 (CHENTSO-TSAI), which describes a system using a "pin" to fix the height and centering of a bicycle seatpost. Its disadvantages include the requirement for a frame (hole) to allow the "pin" to pass through, and the fact that it does not automatically allow the height to be set at the same level as the previously used saddle. Another example is application GB 2554988 (PASHLEYHOLDINGS LTD), which describes a clamp that allows fixing the height of a bicycle seatpost; its disadvantages include the fact that it does not automatically allow the height to be the same as the previously used saddle, nor does it allow proper centering of the seatpost.

[0008] In view of the above, it is desirable to have technologies for setting the height of bicycle seatposts and achieving seatpost alignment. These technologies should have at least the following properties: simplifying the installation of the seatpost at the same height as its previous installation in a simple and quick manner, i.e., without requiring each measurement and determination of the height; allowing proper alignment; and being able to be installed on a bicycle without structural intervention in the frame.

[0009] Therefore, the inventors developed a device that allows bicycle seatposts to be installed simply and quickly at the same height as when they were previously installed, and properly aligned, and that can be used without requiring modifications to the bicycle frame. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention belongs to the field of bicycle components, and in particular to a device for setting the seatpost height and achieving proper seatpost alignment, which exhibits a number of advantages. For example, it allows the seatpost to be easily, simply, and quickly reinstalled in a previously defined user position without requiring changes to the bicycle frame.

[0011] In particular, the present invention includes a device for centering and height adjustment of a bicycle seatpost, the device comprising at least the following element: (a) a seatpost comprising:

[0012] (i) longitudinal slot; and

[0013] (ii) Multiple perforations arranged transversely along the longitudinal slot;

[0014] (b) A stop, comprising:

[0015] (i) Cross-sectional region; and

[0016] (ii) At least one bonding element;

[0017] (c) A tubular stop adapter, comprising:

[0018] (i) Longitudinal incision;

[0019] (ii) External guide section; and

[0020] (iii) Inner stop guide section. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram corresponding to one embodiment of the device (100).

[0022] Figure 2 A schematic diagram corresponding to the seat rod (1).

[0023] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of one embodiment corresponding to the stop (2).

[0024] Figure 4 A schematic diagram corresponding to the stop adapter (3).

[0025] Figure 5 Four schematic diagrams corresponding to the stop (2) at different positions: [A] corresponding to an embodiment in which the stop (2) includes two engaging elements (2.1) and is arranged such that the first end (2.4) is oriented downwards; [B] corresponding to an embodiment in which the stop (2) includes two engaging elements (2.1) and is arranged such that the first end (2.4) is oriented upwards; [C] corresponding to an embodiment in which the stop (2) includes one engaging element (2.1) and is arranged such that the first end (2.4) is oriented downwards; and [D] corresponding to an embodiment in which the stop (2) includes one engaging element (2.1) and is arranged such that the first end (2.4) is oriented upwards.

[0026] Figure 6 A schematic diagram corresponding to the stop (2) is shown, wherein the engaging element (2.1) includes a transverse cut and a hole in its central portion.

[0027] Figure 7 Two top plan views corresponding to the stop (2) approaching the seat rod (1), wherein the engaging element (2.1) of the stop (2) includes a transverse cut and a hole in its central portion: in Figure 7 In [A], it is shown that the stop is not inserted into the seat rod (1); Figure 7 In [B], it is shown that the stop is inserted into the seat rod (1).

[0028] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the device (100) mounted on a bicycle. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The present invention relates to a device (100) for centering and adjusting the height of a bicycle seatpost, which allows for easy, simple and quick return to a previously user-defined position without altering the bicycle frame.

[0030] In the following description, various preferred embodiments of the device (100) will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. However, unless otherwise stated, the specific configurations (such as dimensions, materials, and other aspects) of the parts and components constituting the preferred or alternative embodiments of the device (100) are intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the art. Furthermore, numerous specific details are disclosed in the following detailed description to provide a thorough understanding of this specification. However, without some of these specific details, the practice of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0031] The present invention includes a device (100) for centering and adjusting the height of a bicycle seatpost, the device comprising at least the following elements: (a) a seatpost (1), the seatpost comprising:

[0032] (i) Longitudinal slot (1.1); and

[0033] (ii) Multiple perforations (1.2) arranged transversely along the longitudinal slot (1.1);

[0034] (b) a stop (2), the stop comprising:

[0035] (i) Cross-sectional region (2.3); and

[0036] (ii) At least one bonding element (2.1);

[0037] (c) A tubular stop adapter (3), the tubular stop adapter comprising:

[0038] (i) Longitudinal incision (3.2);

[0039] (ii) External guide section (3.3); and

[0040] (iii) Inner stop guide (3.4).

[0041] Figure 1 An alternative embodiment is included, in which the above-described elements of the device (100) are shown, although other embodiments are also possible.

[0042] The device (100) allows for easy and quick installation of the bicycle seat post, placing it at the same height as previously installed and properly centered, without requiring changes to the bicycle frame.

[0043] The advantageous features of the device (100) become apparent when its mode of use is understood. For example, when the device (100) is used for the first time, the user inserts the stop (2) into the longitudinal slot (1.1) of the seat post (1), thereby engaging at least one engaging element (2.1) into the through hole (1.2), thus securing it to the seat post (1). The hole into which the engaging element (2.1) is inserted will define the height of the seat (6).

[0044] The user then inserts the stop adapter (3) into the seat post (4) of their bicycle frame, as follows: Figure 8 As can be seen in the image. More specifically, the outer guide (3.3) will fit into the slit (4.1) in the seat tube (4) of the bicycle on which the device (100) is mounted. This step can be performed before or after the stop (2) is inserted into the longitudinal slot (1.1).

[0045] Then, the user simply inserts the seatpost (1) into the seatpost (4) via the stop adapter (3). The seatpost (1) will then slide freely until the stop (2) contacts the inner stop guide (3.4) of the stop adapter (3). Finally, to secure the seatpost (1) firmly to the bicycle, the user must fasten the clamp (5) to the seatpost (4), as is done in any standard bicycle adjustment system. In this step, the longitudinal cut (3.2) plays a crucial role, as it provides the necessary slack for the clamp (5) on the seatpost (4) to generate the required pressure on the seatpost (1) to prevent it from slipping. The device (100) will be installed as follows: Figure 8 The bicycle shown.

[0046] If the user finds the height unsuitable, they can remove the seat post (1) and adjust the height by changing the position of the stop (2) relative to the perforation (1.2). If the user moves the stop (2) downwards, the final height of the seat (6) will be greater because it will contact the inner stop guide (3.4) earlier. Conversely, if the stop (2) is moved upwards, the final height of the seat (6) will be smaller.

[0047] In this context, a significant advantage of the device (100) is that once the ideal height is defined (e.g., upon first use), when the user removes the seat post (1) and reinstalls it, the seat (6) will remain at the same height as before because the stop (2) is inserted in the same previous position, thus contacting the inner stop guide (3.4) at the same point. Therefore, the user does not need to make any measurements of the seat (6) remaining at the previously installed height, which demonstrates a significant advantage in terms of time and installation accuracy.

[0048] As for centering, it is achieved because the outer guide (3.3), together with the other components of the device (100), is designed and configured so that the direction of the seat is always aligned with the bicycle, such as... Figure 8 As can be seen in the image. It should be noted that the position and configuration of the outer guide (3.3) and other components of the device (100) will depend on the position of the slit (4.1) in the seat tube (4) of the bicycle frame to which the device (100) will be used.

[0049] For example, if the slit (4.1) in the seat tube (4) is aligned with the rear portion of the seat tube (4), such as Figure 8 As shown, the configuration is as follows: the outer guide (3.3) will be aligned with the outer surface of the rear portion of the stop adapter (3); the inner stop guide (3.4) will be aligned with the rear portion of the stop adapter (3) through the inside, as shown in Figure 4 As can be seen in the illustrated pattern; the longitudinal slot (1.1) will be centered at the rear portion of the seat post (1); finally, the seat (6) will be oriented forward and centered, as shown in the illustration. Figure 8 As seen in the example. Therefore, in this configuration, with the outer guide (3.3) aligned with the seat tube (4), the inner stop guide (3.4) will also be aligned. Furthermore, the inner stop guide (3.4) will align the seat post (1) relative to the bicycle's seat tube (4), and thus relative to the bicycle. Finally, since the seat post (1) also centers the seat (6), it will also automatically center with the bicycle.

[0050] Importantly, it should be reiterated that the configuration mentioned depends on the position of the slit (4.1) in the seat tube (4). For example, if the slit (4.1) is centered on the left side of the seat tube (4), the outer guide (3.3) will also be positioned centered on the left side outside the stop adapter (3). Thus, proper alignment will be achieved using other elements arranged as described above. Therefore, the present invention can be configured in a variety of different ways depending on the position of the slit (4.1) in the seat tube (4). As a result, a significant advantage of the device (100) is that it does not require any modification to the bicycle; the user simply needs to purchase and use the device (100) configured for their bicycle.

[0051] Therefore, the features of the device (100) present a series of advantages to the user. First, once the stop (2) has been inserted into the seat post (1) at a preferred height, when the seat post (1) is installed into the seat tube (4) of the bicycle, it will automatically, easily, quickly and accurately be at the same height as previously installed and correctly centered without any measurement; and no modifications to the bicycle frame are required.

[0052] Therefore, this is a particularly useful technology for users who, for example, use their bicycles to commute in the city and remove the seatpost to prevent it from being stolen, only to have to reinstall the seatpost every time they use the bicycle again. Additionally, this technology is especially useful for YERKA bicycles.

[0053] Next, alternative and / or preferred embodiments of the device (100) will be described.

[0054] Although, as previously stated, the longitudinal slot (1.1) can be partially centered at the rear of the seat post (1), which would be desirable from an aesthetic point of view, it can also be located on other faces of the tube, such as at the front. The longitudinal slot (1.1) preferably has a width of 7 mm to 10.23 mm and a trapezoidal shape, as the inventors have determined that this facilitates insertion, prevents rotation, and is more comfortable for the user.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the perforations (1.2) in the longitudinal slot (1.1) are spaced apart by an equidistant distance (α), preferably from 10 mm to 30 mm, and have a diameter equal to or greater than 7 mm. The advantage of the equidistant distance (α) is that it allows each change in the position of the stop (2) to produce a uniform change in the final height of the seat. Additionally, the equidistant distance (α) allows the use of a stop (2) comprising two or more engaging elements (2.1).

[0056] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment of this technology, the stop (2) includes two engaging elements (2.1), as in Figure 5 See A and B of 5. In this embodiment, the two engaging elements (2.1) are spaced apart by the same distance (α) equal to that between the perforations (1.2). The advantage of using two perforations is that it more appropriately distributes the force supported by the stop 2 when the stop 2 contacts the inner stop guide 3.4 and receives the user's weight. Although it is the clamp (5) that secures the seat tube (4) to maintain the height of the bicycle, and therefore different parts of the device (100) should not be subjected to excessive stress, the inventors' experience shows that users may use it incorrectly, and therefore it is desirable that, in the preferred embodiment, the device (100) can support the weight of the person even if the clamp (5) on the bicycle seat tube (4) is not properly secured due to improper operation. However, the device (100) can also be configured in other forms, for example, having a stop (2) including a engaging element (2.1), such as Figure 5 exemplified in C and 5D.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the stop (2) has a first end (2.4) and a second end (2.5), wherein the length (β) of the first end (2.4) is greater than the length (γ) of the second end (2.5), and the length (γ) is equal to or greater than 0. The advantage of this alternative is that it allows the stop (2) to be configured with two positions, enabling the user to more precisely define the height of the seat using the same number of perforations (1.2). For example, if the distance (α) between the two perforations is 20 mm, the length (β) of the first end (2.4) is 10 mm, and the length (γ) of the second end (2.5) is 0 mm, the user will be able to make a 10 mm adjustment, even though the perforations are spaced 20 mm apart. The reason is that if the user orients the first end (2.4) upwards, the stop (2) will contact the inner stop guide (3.4) at the level of the perforation (1.2), while if the user orients the first end (2.4) downwards, the contact will occur at the midpoint between the two perforations (1.2). Therefore, in the preferred embodiment, the length (β) relative to the remaining measurement of the device is the length that allows for a fixed seat height during a jump, which is equal to half the distance (α) between the two perforations (1.2).

[0058] Through rigorous research and development, the inventors developed a preferred embodiment of the coupling element (2.1) that has the advantage of securing the stop (2) to the seat post (1), significantly reducing the likelihood of misplacement when the user removes the seat post (1). In the mentioned embodiment, one or more coupling elements (2.1) consist of two sections: one section forms the base (2.1.2) of the coupling, and the other section forms the end (2.1.1) of the coupling. The diameter of the base (2.1.2) of the coupling is slightly larger than the diameter of the end (2.1.1) of the coupling, giving the coupling element a slightly truncated conical shape. For its portion, the diameter of the base (2.1.2) of the coupling is slightly larger than the diameter of the perforation (1.2), while the diameter of the end (2.1.1) of the coupling is slightly smaller than the diameter of the perforation (1.2). Finally, the coupling element (2.1) may include a bevel in its front portion. With this configuration, the engaging element (2.1) can enter the perforation (1.2) but fit tightly within the perforation (1.2) by pressure. For the purposes of this application, the term "slightly" means a dimensional difference of up to 2%. Thus, for example, the diameter of the base (2.1.2) of the engagement is slightly larger than the diameter of the end (2.1.1) of the engagement, which means that in the preferred embodiment, the diameter of the base (2.1.2) of the engagement is at most 2% larger than the diameter of the end (2.1.1) of the engagement.

[0059] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the joining element (2.1) includes a transverse cut (2.6), or includes a transverse cut (2.6) and a hole (2.7) in its central portion, as in Figure 6 As seen in the present invention. In implementing this technology, the inventors determined that this preferred embodiment allows the engaging element (2.1) to be inserted more easily into the perforation (1.2). The reason is that the perforation allows compression of the engaging element (2.1). Similarly, when inserted into the seat post (1), each half of the engaging element (2.1) generates sufficient outward pressure to hold the stop (2) in place and prevent it from being lost when the user removes the seat post (1). Finally, since the pressure is sufficient, this embodiment also facilitates the removal of the stop (2) from the seat post (1) when needed by the user. The mentioned functions Figure 7 As can be seen in the text.

[0060] Since the stop (2) can be fixed to the seat (1), in a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the stop (2) has a notch (2.2) that allows for easy removal using a flathead screwdriver or another similar tool. In cases where the stop (2) comprises two engaging elements (2.1), the notch (2.2) is located between them. This allows the separation point to be located at the center of mass, facilitating removal without the user worrying about damaging the device (100).

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the stop (2) includes a concave outer surface that mates with the inner surface of the stop adapter (3). This concave shape allows the stop (2) to complete the circumference of the stop adapter (3) when the stop (2) is inserted into the longitudinal slot (1.1) of the seat rod (1) and the seat rod (1) is introduced into the stop adapter (3), thereby making it more robust and precisely fitted.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the stop adapter (3) includes an upper edge (3.1) that allows the stop adapter (3) to be supported on the upper edge of the bicycle seat tube (4). Among the advantages described above, the upper edge partially guides the weight supported by the device (100) toward the frame and reduces the risk of breakage of the device (100) in the event of user misoperation and improper tightening of the clamp (5).

[0063] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the inner stop guide (3.4) is arranged such that it does not begin directly from the upper edge of the adapter (3), but extends further downward, thereby forming a segment with a length (δ) that is at least 5% and more preferably 10% of the total length of the adapter (3). The aforementioned segment allows for the creation of a space in which the stop (2) engages within the adapter (3) such that when the device (100) is fully mounted on the bicycle, the stop (2) is locked in place and will not disengage or be lost.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the longitudinal cut (3.2) has a thickness of at least 1 mm. As previously mentioned, this element plays a key role because it provides the necessary slack so that when the clamp (5) on the bicycle seat tube (4) is actuated, it generates the required pressure on the seat post (1) to prevent it from slipping.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment of the device (100), the outer guide (3.3) has a thickness less than the width of the slit (4.1) in the seat tube (4) of the bicycle frame. This embodiment allows sufficient margin so that when the clamp is tightened, the seat tube (4) has sufficient compression margin to achieve the tightening of the seat post (1) as if the device (100) were not installed.

[0066] As for the materials of the device (100), they can vary according to the manufacturer's requirements. For example, the seat post (1) can be made of iron, aluminum, chromium molybdenum, carbon, or other materials. Meanwhile, the stop (2) and adapter (3) can be made of plastic and designed so that they can also be printed by a 3D printer. However, the stop (2) and adapter (3) can also be made of other materials. Similarly, configurations and measurements not described in detail in this report will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0067] Example

[0068] The invention will be better understood through the following examples, which are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention. Various changes and modifications to the described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.

[0069] Example 1: Implementation of the apparatus (100) and resistance testing

[0070] To evaluate the functionality and resistance of the device (100), the inventors conducted extensive tests using different methods and under different conditions. In the tests conducted, the device (100) was configured as follows: (a) a seat post (1) comprising: (i) a longitudinal slot (1.1); and (ii) a plurality of perforations (1.2) with a diameter of 7 mm, arranged transversely along the longitudinal slot (1.1) and equidistantly spaced at a distance (α) of 20 mm; (b) a stop (2) comprising: (i) a cross-sectional area (2.3); and (ii) two engaging elements (2.1) consisting of two segments: one forming a base (2.1.2) of the engaging portion, and the other forming an end (2.1.1) of the engaging portion. The diameter of the base (2.1.2) of the engaging portion is slightly larger than the diameter of the end (2.1.1) of the engaging portion. The diameter of the base (2.1.2) of the joint is slightly larger than the diameter of the perforation (1.2), while the diameter of the end (2.1.1) of the joint is slightly smaller than the diameter of the perforation (1.2); (iii) a first end (2.4) with a length (β) of 1 cm and a second end (2.5) with a length (γ) of 0 cm; and (iv) a notch (2.2) between the first end (2.4) and the second end (2.5); (c) a tubular stop adapter (3) comprising: (i) 1 (ii) a longitudinal cut of mm (3.2); (iii) an outer guide (3.3) the diameter of which is slightly smaller than the slit (4.1) of the seat tube (4) of the bicycle on which the device (100) is mounted, the outer guide being arranged longitudinally in the central portion outside the stop adapter (3); (iv) an inner stop guide (3.4) the inner stop guide being arranged longitudinally in the center inside the stop adapter (3); and (iv) an upper edge (3.1).

[0071] To test the device (100), the inventors set up the saddle (6) on the seatpost (1) in a conventional manner. They then inserted a stop (2) into the seatpost (1) and used a standard test bicycle to test different heights and rotate the stop (2) until the most suitable position for the user was found. Initially, to set the final saddle position, the clamp (5) of the bicycle's seatpost (4) was tightened. This clamp (5) was a standard clamp.

[0072] In this way, a series of tests were conducted, including removing and re-inserting the seat post (1) into the test bicycle, to confirm that the system was functioning properly to keep the seat centering and height in the same position as previously defined.

[0073] In addition, the inventors conducted resistance tests and determined that the device (100) could withstand the weight of a user of at least 150 kg even without the clamp (5) securing the bicycle seat tube (4).

[0074] Example 2: Implementation of the apparatus (100)

[0075] In another test, the inventors tested the same device as evaluated in Example 1, but added a transverse cut (2.6) to each of the two connecting elements (2.1).

[0076] The inventors were able to determine that this configuration simplifies the insertion of the engaging elements (2.1) into the perforations (1.2) and their subsequent removal.

[0077] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0078]

Claims

1. A device (100) for centering and adjusting the height of a bicycle seatpost, characterized in that, The device includes at least the following elements: (a) A seat post (1), which includes: (i) Longitudinal slot (1.1); and (ii) A plurality of perforations (1.2) arranged transversely along the longitudinal slot (1.1); (b) A stop (2), comprising: (i) Cross-sectional region (2.3); and (ii) At least one bonding element (2.1) (c) A tubular stop adapter (3), comprising: (i) Longitudinal incision (3.2); (ii) External guide section (3.3); and (iii) Inner stop guide (3.4).

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The perforations (1.2) in the longitudinal slot (1.1) are spaced apart by a distance (α) that is equidistant from each other.

3. The apparatus (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The stop (2) includes two engaging elements (2.1).

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The joining element (2.1) includes a transverse cut (2.6).

5. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop (2) has a first end (2.4) and a second end (2.5), wherein the length (β) of the first end (2.4) is greater than the length (γ) of the second end (2.5), and the length (γ) is equal to or greater than 0.

6. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop (2) includes a notch (2.2).

7. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop adapter (3) includes an upper edge (3.1).

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