Actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component

Abstract

Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component, comprising: a base body (14, 114, 214) comprising a handlebar mounting portion (30) and a handle portion (32); a hydraulic cylinder (56); a piston (58) movably disposed within the hydraulic cylinder (56); an actuating lever (18) pivotally mounted about a swing axis (P) relative to the base body (14, 114, 214), the actuating lever (18) being operatively connected to one of the hydraulic cylinder (56) and the piston (58) to generate a hydraulic force in response to pivotal movement of the actuating lever (18) relative to the base body (14, 114, 214); a fluid reservoir (54, 154, 254) in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinder (56); a communication input (40, 140, 240) connected to the liquid reservoir (54, 154, 254), wherein the operating lever (18) is provided with a switching operating part (24, 26) for carrying out a switching operation of a gearshift device; and a gearshift control unit, wherein the shift operating part (24, 26) is electrically connected to the gearshift control device.

Description

[0001] The present invention generally relates to an actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component. More specifically, the present invention relates to an actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component for actuating a bicycle component.

[0002] In recent years, some bicycles have been equipped with a hydraulically actuated system. In the case of bicycle braking systems, hydraulic disc brake systems or other brake types of a hydraulic braking system, such as hydraulic shoe brakes, are known. These hydraulic braking systems are usually operated by a brake lever attached to the bicycle handlebar. The brake lever is usually part of a brake actuating device that connects the brake lever to the bicycle handlebar. The brake actuating device usually includes a master piston slidably mounted in the cylinder bore of a master cylinder and actuated by the brake lever. The master cylinder contains hydraulic fluid. In the case of a hydraulic disc brake, the cylinder bore of the master cylinder is in fluid communication with a disc brake caliper housing via a fluid line.The brake pads of the disc brake caliper housing are typically spaced from a brake rotor by a predetermined gap. When the brake lever is operated (i.e., pulled toward the handlebar), the master piston moves within the cylinder bore of the master cylinder, forcing hydraulic fluid from the master cylinder and into the fluid line connected to the caliper housing. The movement of fluid into the caliper housing causes the pistons within the caliper housing to move, ultimately bringing the brake pads into contact with the brake rotor. Once the brake pads contact the brake rotor, they provide frictional resistance, which can be increased by further operation of the lever. At this point, the caliper housing is fully pressurized, and further operation of the lever increases the hydraulic pressure and frictional resistance exerted on the brake rotor.

[0003] It has been discovered that with conventional hydraulically actuated components, it can be difficult to fill or bleed hydraulic fluid into the hydraulically actuated system. In particular, it can be difficult to fill or bleed hydraulic fluid into the hydraulically actuated system while the hydraulically actuated system is installed on the bicycle. One object of the present disclosure is to provide an actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component into which hydraulic fluid can be readily filled or bleeded.

[0004] An actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component, which is intended to enable filling or venting while the hydraulic bicycle component is installed on a bicycle, is disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2013 000 565 A1.

[0005] In view of the prior art, an actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component is provided, generally comprising a base body, a hydraulic cylinder, a piston, an actuating lever, a fluid reservoir, and a communication inlet. The base body includes a handlebar mounting portion and a grip portion. The piston is movably disposed within the hydraulic cylinder. The actuating lever is pivotally mounted relative to the base body about a swingarm axis. The actuating lever is operatively connected to one of the hydraulic cylinder and the piston to generate a hydraulic force in response to pivotal movement of the actuating lever relative to the base body. The fluid reservoir is in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinder. The communication inlet communicates with the fluid reservoir.The operating lever is provided with a shift control element for performing a shifting operation of a gearshift device. The operating device further comprises a gearshift control unit, wherein the shift control element is electrically connected to the gearshift control device.

[0006] These features and other features, objects, aspects and advantages of the disclosed actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component will become apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments.

[0007] Referring now to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure Fig. 1 is an external view of a racing bicycle handlebar equipped with a hydraulic operating device for bicycles according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 is an exterior view of the Fig. 1 hydraulic actuation device for bicycles with the handle cover removed; Fig. 3 is a perspective front view of the Fig. 2 hydraulic operating device for bicycles; Fig. 4 is an interior view of the Fig. 2 hydraulic operating device for bicycles; Fig. 5 is a partially exploded perspective view of the Fig. 2 hydraulic operating device for bicycles; Fig. 6 is a central longitudinal sectional view of a base body of the Fig. 1 to 5, seen along section line 6-6 of the Fig. 9, showing the base body in an installed orientation; Fig. 7 is a central longitudinal sectional view of a modified main body of the hydraulic actuating device for bicycles, showing the main body in an installed orientation; Fig. 8 is a plan view of the Fig. 1 shows a hydraulic actuating device for bicycles with the handle cover removed; Fig. 9 is a plan view of the Fig. 1 shows a hydraulic actuating device for bicycles with the cover for a fluid reservoir removed; Fig. 10 is an exterior view of the Fig. 1 hydraulic actuating device for bicycles, to which an oil funnel is attached for filling or venting hydraulic fluid; Fig. 11 is a plan view of a hydraulic operating device for bicycles according to a second embodiment; and Fig. 12 is a central longitudinal sectional view of a main body of a hydraulic operating device for bicycles according to a third embodiment.

[0008] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. Those skilled in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0009] First, with regard to the Fig. 1 to 10 illustrate an actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle brake 10 (for example, an actuating device for a hydraulic bicycle component) according to a first embodiment. As shown in the Fig. 1 to 4, the hydraulic bicycle brake operating device 10 (hereinafter "hydraulic bicycle operating device 10") is a right-hand control device that the cyclist operates with the right hand, thus operating a first braking device (not shown) and a first gear shifting device (not shown, for example, an electric rear derailleur). Those skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate that the configuration of the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 can also be adapted to a left-hand control device that the cyclist operates with the left hand.

[0010] As in Fig. 1, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is mounted on a racing bicycle handlebar 12. More specifically, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is mounted on a bent portion 12a of the racing bicycle handlebar 12. In other words, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is specifically designed for a bicycle equipped with a racing bicycle handlebar 12. As explained below, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 includes both a braking function and a shifting function in a single unit. However, those skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that the shifting function can be removed from the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 as needed and / or desired.The hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is a hydraulic bicycle brake operating device specifically designed for mounting on the curved portion 12a of the racing bicycle handlebar 12. However, those skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 can be applied to different types of handlebars as needed and / or desired.

[0011] In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is a bicycle brake / shift device, also known as a bicycle brifter. A bicycle brifter is a device that includes both a braking function and a shifting function in a single unit mounted on the bicycle. A road bicycle brifter is a device specifically designed for mounting on the curved portion 12a of the road bicycle handlebar 12, as shown in Fig. 1, and which includes both a braking and a switching function in a single unit.

[0012] As in the Fig. 1 to 4, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 generally includes a base body 14 having a hydraulic system 16 and an operating lever 18. The hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 also includes a handlebar holder 20 (e.g., a handlebar mounting member). In the illustrated embodiment, since the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is configured to actuate a braking device (not shown), the operating lever 18 will be referred to hereinafter as the "brake lever 18." Thus, the brake lever 18 actuates the hydraulic system 16 during movement of the brake lever 18 relative to the base body 14, thereby performing a braking operation of the braking device (not shown).

[0013] As in Fig. 3, the brake lever 18 is pivotally mounted about a swing arm axis P relative to the base body 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the brake lever 18 is directly pivotally mounted to a lever attachment portion 14a of the base body 14 by a pivot pin 22 defining the swing arm axis P. As explained below, the brake lever 18 is biased to a rest position relative to the base body 14. Consequently, the brake lever 18 moves relative to the base body 14 from the rest position along a brake actuation path BA to a braking position, whereby the braking device (not shown) performs a braking operation.

[0014] In the illustrated embodiment, the brake lever 18 is equipped with two shift operating members 24 and 26 for performing shifting operations of a shifting device (not shown). The shift operating members 24 and 26 are electrically connected to the shift control unit (not shown) mounted in a recess in the base body 14. The shift operating members 24 and 26 are constructed as shown in US 2009 / 0 031 841 A1 (assigned to Shimano, Inc.). Those skilled in the bicycle art will recognize that the shift operating members 24 and 26 are not limited to the illustrated structure and arrangement, but rather, other suitable structures and arrangements may be used as needed and / or desired. The shift control unit (not shown) is a microcomputer located within the base body 14. However, the shift control unit may also be located externally as needed and / or desired.Since various electrical shifting systems are known in the field of bicycles, the shift operating members 24 and 26 and the shift control unit are not discussed herein for the sake of brevity.

[0015] As in the Fig. 2 to 4, the base body 14 includes a handlebar mounting portion 30 (e.g., a handlebar fastening portion) integrally formed at one end for contacting the racing bicycle handlebar 12. The handlebar mounting portion 30 has a handlebar holder 20 attached thereto. Thus, the handlebar holder 20 and the handlebar mounting portion 30 form a handlebar mounting structure. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the handlebar mounting structure (the handlebar holder 20 and the handlebar mounting portion 30) is disposed on the base body 14. While the handlebar mounting portion 30 is an integral part of the base body 14, the handlebar holder 20 may be a separate part fixedly attached to the base body 14.

[0016] The base body 14 includes a grip portion 32 and a knob portion 34. The handlebar mounting portion 30, in the illustrated embodiment, is formed integrally with the grip portion 32 of the base body 14. The base body 14, together with the handlebar mounting portion 30, defines a drop handlebar made of a rigid, hard material. The grip portion 32 is located at a central portion of the drop handlebar. The knob portion 34 is located at a front free end of the drop handlebar. In other words, the grip portion 32 is disposed between the handlebar mounting portion 30 and the knob portion 34 along a longitudinal axis of the base body 14 that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of a bicycle. More specifically, the knob portion 34 is located forward of the base body 14 relative to a transition point on a top surface 36 of the base body 14.In the illustrated embodiment, the upper surface 36 of the base body 14 becomes more vertical than horizontal at the transition point from the base body 14 forward along the longitudinal axis of the base body 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the handlebar mounting portion 30, the grip portion 32, and the knob portion 34 are generally formed as a single, integral, unitary component. Of course, the handlebar mounting portion 30, the grip portion 32, and the knob portion 34 may include removable panels as needed and / or desired. For example, an outer panel of the shift control unit may define a portion of the grip portion 32.

[0017] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, a handle cover 38 is stretched over at least the handle portion 32 and the knob portion 34, thus providing a cushion for the handle portion 32 of the base body 14 and an attractive appearance. Typically, the handle cover 38 is made of a resilient material such as rubber.

[0018] The handlebar holder 20 is a conventional handlebar clamp that is attached to the base body 14 so that the base body 14 can be releasably secured to the bent portion 12a of the racing handlebar 12. As shown in Fig. 2, the handlebar holder 20 generally includes a clamp band 20a and a first retaining portion 20b that is screwed to a second retaining portion (not shown) of the clamp band 20a. The first retaining portion 20b and the second retaining portion are located in a hole of the handlebar mounting portion 30. Thus, when the handlebar holder 20 is tightened to secure the base body 14 to the bent portion 12a of the road handlebar 12, a head of the first retaining portion 20b exerts a first force on the handlebar mounting portion 30, and the second retaining portion exerts a second force on the clamp band 20a. By tightening the first holding part 20b, the clamping band 20a is moved toward the handlebar mounting portion 30, so that the bent portion 12a of the racing bicycle handlebar 12 is squeezed between the clamping band 20a and the handlebar mounting portion 30.Those skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate that the handlebar holder 20 is not limited to the illustrated clamp, but rather, other suitable fastening mechanisms may be used as needed and / or desired. In any event, the handlebar holder 20 is attached to the handlebar mounting portion 30 of the base body 14. The handlebar mounting portion 30 contacts the bent portion 12a of the road bicycle handlebar 12 when the first retaining portion 20b is tightened to move the clamp band 20a toward the handlebar mounting portion 30.

[0019] With main reference to Fig. 2, the hydraulic system 16 is in fluid communication with a hydraulic disc brake system (not shown) via a hydraulic hose or line 55. Basically, actuation of the brake lever 18 causes the movement of hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic system 16 to one or more slave pistons in a hydraulic brake caliper, causing the brake pads to contact a brake disc to apply frictional resistance and cause the bicycle to slow or stop. Of course, the hydraulic bicycle actuating device 10 is not limited to use in a hydraulic disc brake system. Rather, the hydraulic bicycle actuating device 10 can also be used in other braking systems, such as hydraulic shoe brakes.

[0020] As in the Fig. As illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 includes a communication input 40. The hydraulic system 16 further includes a fluid reservoir 54, a hydraulic cylinder housing 56 (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder), and a piston 58. The hydraulic cylinder housing 56 is often referred to as a master cylinder, and the piston 58 is often referred to as a master piston. The piston 58 is movably disposed within a cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, as best shown in Fig. 6, the communication inlet 40 communicates with the fluid reservoir 54. In particular, the communication inlet 40 generally comprises an annular projection 42 having a communication passage 44. The projection 42 of the communication inlet 40 is disposed on the upper surface 36 of the base body 14. In particular, the projection 42 of the communication inlet 40 extends or protrudes from the upper surface 36 of the base body 14 at the knob portion 34. As shown in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10, the projection 42 of the communication inlet 40 is formed as a funnel mounting portion to which an oil funnel F configured for filling or venting hydraulic fluid into the hydraulic system 16 is mounted. Specifically, the projection 42 of the communication inlet 40 has an annular flat end surface to which the oil funnel F is mounted. The end surface of the projection 42 extends substantially horizontally while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is in an installed position. Consequently, even if the base body 14 does not have a flat portion on the upper surface 36, the oil funnel F can be stably mounted on the flat end surface of the projection 42. As shown in Fig. 6, the communication passage 44 extends through the communication inlet 40. The communication passage 44 of the communication inlet 40 has an opening at the outer end 44a that opens upward while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is in an installed position. As shown in Fig. 6, the communication passage 44 of the communication inlet 40 is in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 via the fluid reservoir 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication passage 44 of the communication inlet 40 has an opening at the inner end 44b that opens into the fluid reservoir 54. Thus, the communication inlet 40 communicates with the fluid reservoir 54 and an external space outside the base body 14 via the communication passage 44. Of course, one skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that the communication inlet 40 may be provided with a removable cap for sealing the communication inlet 40 or for preventing the hydraulic fluid in the fluid reservoir 54 from leaking from the communication inlet 40 while the bicycle is riding.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid reservoir 54 is disposed on the knob portion 34 of the base body 14. More specifically, the fluid reservoir 54 is disposed on the upper side of the base body 14 relative to the swing arm axis P of the brake lever 18 while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is in the installed position. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the fluid reservoir 54 is at least partially disposed on the base body 14 at a location primarily forward of the swing arm axis P of the brake lever 18 while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is in the installed position. The fluid reservoir 54 is disposed above the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 at a location on the knob portion 34 of the base body 14.Of course, one skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that the fluid reservoir 54 is not limited to the illustrated location, but rather, other suitable locations may be used. In any event, the location of the fluid reservoir 54 is maintained by the base body 14 at a location spaced from the area directly above the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is in an installed position.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 is disposed on the base body 14. More specifically, the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 is disposed within the handle portion 32 of the base body 14. The brake lever 18 is operatively connected to the piston 58, thereby moving the piston 58 within the cylinder bore 60 to generate a hydraulic force in response to pivotal movement of the brake lever 18 relative to the base body 14. Further, the brake lever 18 may be operatively connected to the hydraulic cylinder housing 56, thereby generating a hydraulic force in response to pivotal movement of the brake lever 18 relative to the base body 14.

[0024] As in Fig. 6, the piston 58 is movably disposed within the cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 in a reciprocal manner in response to the actuation of the brake lever 18. The piston 58 and the inner surface of the cylinder bore 60 define a hydraulic chamber of the hydraulic system 16. A biasing element 62 is disposed in the cylinder bore 60 for biasing the piston 58 to a rest position. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing element 62 is a coil compression spring (return spring) that also biases the brake lever 18 to its rest position, as shown in Fig. 6. As shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 6, the brake lever 18 is operatively connected to the piston 58 via a connecting rod 64.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting rod 64 is connected to the brake lever 18 by a reach adjustment connection (not illustrated) that adjusts the reach of the brake lever 18. The illustrated reach adjustment connection between the connecting rod 64 and the brake lever 18 is substantially similar to the construction of the reach adjustment connection disclosed in US patent application US 2011 / 0 147 149 A1 (assigned to Shimano, Inc.). In addition, the base body 14 includes a piston end position adjustment connection that controls the relative positions of the brake lever 18 and the piston 58 in their rest positions relative to the hydraulic cylinder housing 56.

[0026] As in the Fig. 6 and Fig. 9, the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 has an outlet opening 66 extending from the cylinder bore 60 to a hydraulic hose connector 68. The outlet opening 66 is partially threaded, thereby receiving the hydraulic hose connector 68 for securing the hydraulic hose 55 ( Fig. 2). The hydraulic hose connector 68 extends on the outside of the base body 14 for attaching the hydraulic hose 55. When the brake lever 18 is rotated about the swing arm axis P relative to the base body 14, the piston 58 moves within the cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 against the force of the biasing element 62, thereby forcing hydraulic fluid from the cylinder bore 60 through the outlet opening 66. As shown in Fig. 9, the cylinder bore 60 is arranged relative to the base body 14 such that the cylinder bore 60 has a center axis C1 that is laterally offset from a center axis C2 of the handlebar holder 20.

[0027] As in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the fluid reservoir 54 includes a reservoir 70, a cover 72, and a flexible intermediate wall 74. The flexible intermediate wall 74 is disposed between the reservoir 70 and the cover 72. The cover 72 and the flexible intermediate wall 74 are attached to the reservoir 70 by a screw 76 such that the cover 72 covers a hydraulic fluid chamber 78 defined by the reservoir 70. The flexible intermediate wall 74 includes a projecting portion that extends into the hydraulic fluid chamber 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 and the reservoir 70, which defines the hydraulic fluid chamber 78 of the fluid reservoir 54, are provided as part of a unitary, one-piece component. In other words, the reservoir 70 is formed integrally with the base body 14 as a one-piece, unitary component.The fluid reservoir 54 is in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 through an internal passage 80. More specifically, the distal end of the internal passage 80 relative to the reservoir 70 includes an enlarged portion 82 with a timing port 86 and a compensating port 88, both in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 60. The functions of the timing port 86 and the compensating port 88 are well known and will not be described further. A removable plate 90 is fixedly coupled to the base body 14, covering or sealing the enlarged portion 82.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the communication passage 44 of the communication inlet 40 includes the opening at the inner end 44b in an inner peripheral surface 70a of the reservoir 70 of the fluid reservoir 54. Specifically, the opening at the inner end 44b is open in the inner peripheral surface 70a at a rear side of the reservoir 70. Further, the opening at the inner end 44b of the communication passage 44 of the communication inlet 40 is located above a lower surface 70b of the reservoir 70 of the fluid reservoir 54 while the bicycle hydraulic operating device 10 is in an installed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication passage 44 of the communication inlet 40 is in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 60 via the fluid reservoir 54 and the entire length of the internal passage 80 extending between the fluid reservoir 54 and the cylinder bore 60.In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in . Fig. 6, the internal passage 80 has an end opening 80a that opens into the fluid reservoir 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the end opening 80a is located in the lower surface 70b of the reservoir 70 of the fluid reservoir 54 at a rear edge portion of the lower surface 70b. Of course, one skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that the location of the end opening 80a of the internal passage 80 can be modified as needed and / or desired. For example, as shown in Fig. 7, an end opening 80a' of a modified internal passage 80' directed further forward from the inner peripheral surface 70a of the reservoir 70 than the end opening 80a shown in Fig. 6. In this case, the angle of a longitudinal direction of the internal passage 80' relative to a horizontal direction may be more elongated than that of the internal passage 80 while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 is in an installed position.

[0029] As in Fig. 6, is used when the hydraulic fluid is fed from the oil funnel F into the hydraulic system 16 ( Fig. 10), the opening at the outer end 44a of the communication inlet 40 serves as an inlet of the fluid reservoir 54 for draining the hydraulic fluid into the cylinder bore 60. In this case, the hydraulic fluid enters the cylinder bore 60 via the communication passage 44, the fluid reservoir 54, and the internal passage 80. Furthermore, the hydraulic fluid flows out of the outlet opening 66 toward a bicycle brake caliper, which is in fluid communication with the hydraulic system 16 via the hydraulic hose 55, thereby filling the hydraulic system 16 and the hydraulic brake system (not shown) with the hydraulic fluid. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 7 illustrates when the hydraulic fluid is fed into the hydraulic system 16 from a hydraulic brake calliper via the hydraulic hose 55 ( Fig. 2) or when the air in the hydraulic system 16 is discharged from the hydraulic system 16, the opening at the outer end 44a of the communication inlet 40 as an outlet of the fluid reservoir 54 for discharging the hydraulic fluid into the cylinder bore 60 from the hydraulic hose 55 or for discharging air from the hydraulic system 16. In this case, when the hydraulic fluid is added to the hydraulic system 16 from a drain nipple of the hydraulic brake caliper using a syringe (not shown), the hydraulic fluid enters the fluid reservoir 54 via the hydraulic hose 55, the outlet port 66, the cylinder bore 60 and the internal passage 80, thereby filling the fluid reservoir 54.Excess hydraulic fluid from the fluid reservoir 54 overflows from the opening at the outer end 44a of the communication inlet 40 via the communication passage 44 into the oil funnel F. Furthermore, air in the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic system 16 is also discharged from the opening at the outer end 44a of the communication inlet 40.

[0030] Now with reference to Fig. 11 illustrates a hydraulic bicycle operating device 110 (e.g., an operating device for a hydraulic bicycle component) according to a second embodiment. The hydraulic bicycle operating device 110 is basically identical to the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10, except for the location of the communication input 140. In view of the similarity between the first and second embodiments, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 110 will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Accordingly, descriptions of the parts of the second embodiment that are identical or nearly identical to the parts of the first embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity.Furthermore, in view of the similarity between the first and second embodiments, the parts of the second embodiment which are identical in function to the corresponding parts of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first embodiment, but increased by one hundred.

[0031] In the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 according to the first embodiment, the communication inlet 40 extends from the upper surface 36 of the main body 14 at the knob portion 34. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 11, in the hydraulic bicycle operating device 110, the communication inlet 140 is disposed on a lateral side surface 114a of a base body 114. In particular, the communication inlet 140 extends from or protrudes from the lateral side surface 114a of the base body 114 at a knob portion 134 of the base body 114. The communication inlet 140 generally includes an annular protrusion 142 having a communication passage 144. The communication passage 144 extends through the communication inlet 140 such that the communication passage 144 of the communication inlet 140 is in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder) via a fluid reservoir 154.In the illustrated embodiment, the communication passage 144 of the communication inlet 140 has an outer end opening 144a that opens upward while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 110 is in an installed position, and an inner end opening 144b that opens onto an inner side surface 154a of the fluid reservoir 154. The inner end opening 144b is also located above a lower surface 170b of the fluid reservoir 154 while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 110 is in the installed position. In this configuration, the communication inlet 140 communicates with the fluid reservoir 154 with an external space outside the base body 114 via the communication passage 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication inlet 140 extends from a right side surface (i.e.the lateral side surface 114a) of the base body 114 outward. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art of bicycles that the configuration of the communication input 140 can be adapted to a left side surface of the base body 114, which is laterally opposite the right side surface.

[0032] Now with reference to Fig. 12 illustrates a hydraulic bicycle operating device 210 (e.g., an operating device for a hydraulic bicycle component) according to a third embodiment. The hydraulic bicycle operating device 210 is basically identical to the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10, except for the location of the communication input 240. In view of the similarity between the first and third embodiments, the hydraulic bicycle operating device 210 will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Accordingly, descriptions of the parts of the third embodiment that are identical or nearly identical to the parts of the first embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity.Also in view of the similarity between the first and third embodiments, the parts of the third embodiment which are identical in function to the corresponding parts of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first embodiment, but increased by two hundred.

[0033] In the hydraulic bicycle operating device 10 according to the first embodiment, the communication inlet 40 extends from the upper surface 36 of the main body 14 at the knob portion 34. On the other hand, as shown in Fig.12 illustrates, in the hydraulic bicycle operating device 210, the communication inlet 240 is disposed on a top surface 236 of the base body 214 at a handle portion 232 of the base body 214. More specifically, the communication inlet 240 extends or protrudes from the top surface 236 of the handle portion 232. The communication inlet 240 generally includes an annular protrusion 242 having a communication passage 244. The communication passage 244 extends through the communication inlet 240 such that the communication passage 244 of the communication inlet 240 is in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 60 of the hydraulic cylinder housing 56 (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder) via a portion of an internal passage 280 extending between the cylinder bore 60 and a fluid reservoir 254.In the illustrated embodiment, the communication passage 244 of the communication inlet 240 includes an outer end opening 244a that opens upward while the hydraulic bicycle operating device 210 is in an installed position, and an inner end opening 244b that opens to an inner peripheral surface 280a of the internal passage 280 at a mid-length portion of the internal passage 280. In this configuration, the communication inlet 240 communicates with the fluid reservoir 254 and an external space outside the base body 214 via a portion (e.g., at least a part) of the internal passage 280 and the communication passage 244. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication inlet 240 extends outward from the handle portion 232 of the base body 214.It will be appreciated by one skilled in the bicycle art that the configuration of the communication input 240 may be disposed on a knob portion 234 of the body 214 such that the communication passage 244 of the communication input 240 has the inner end opening 244b opening to the inner peripheral surface 280a of the internal passage 280 at a mid-longitudinal portion of the internal passage 280.

[0034] For the purpose of understanding the scope of the present invention, as used herein to describe the above embodiment(s), the following directional terms "forward," "backward," "up," "down," "vertical," "horizontal," "under," and "across," as well as other similar directional terms, refer to the directions of a bicycle equipped with the hydraulic bicycle component operating device. Accordingly, these terms, as used to describe the hydraulic bicycle component operating device, are to be interpreted with respect to a bicycle equipped with the hydraulic bicycle component operating device when used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.Finally, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and “approximately,” as used herein, mean such a reasonable degree of departure from the modified expression that the end result is not significantly changed.

[0035] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, one skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that various changes and modifications may be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, although the present invention has been explained as an operating device for a hydraulic bicycle brake, the present invention may also be applied to other bicycle component operating devices. For example, the present invention may also be applied to an operating device for a hydraulic bicycle component for a bicycle speed change device, for example, a derailleur, an internal hub, and so on.

[0036] Not all advantages need to be present in a particular embodiment. Any feature that is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of applicant's other inventions, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by that feature(s). Thus, the foregoing descriptions of embodiments according to the present invention are merely illustrative and not limiting of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. REFERENCE SYMBOL 10, 110, 210 Hydraulic bicycle brake actuator / hydraulic bicycle actuator 12 racing bike handlebars 12a Curved section 14, 114, 214 basic bodies 14a, 114a Lever mounting section 16 Hydraulic system 18 Operating lever / brake lever 20 handlebar holders 20a clamping band 20b first holding part 22 hinge pins 24 Switch control unit 26 Switch control unit 30 Handlebar mounting section / handlebar mounting section 32, 132, 232 handle section 34, 134, 234 knob section 36, 236 upper surface 38 Handle cover 40, 140, 240 communication input 42, 142, 242 lead 44, 144, 244 Communication passage 44a, 144a, 244a Opening at the outer end 44b, 144b, 244b Opening at the inner end 54, 154, 254 liquid storage tanks 55 hydraulic hose 56 Hydraulic cylinder housing / hydraulic cylinder 58 pistons 60 cylinder bore 62 Preload element 64 connecting rod 66 Exit opening 68 hydraulic hose connectors 70 storage containers 70a Inner peripheral surface 70b, 170b Lower surface 72 Cover 74 Flexible partition wall 76 Screw 78 Chamber for hydraulic fluid 80, 280 Internal passage 80' Internal Passage 80a, 280a end opening 80a' end opening 82 Enlarged area 86 clocking connection 88 Compensation connection 90 Removable plate 154a Inner side surface BA brake actuation travel C1 center axis C2 center axis F Oil funnel P Swing arm axle

Claims

[1] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component, comprising: a base body (14, 114, 214) comprising a handlebar mounting portion (30) and a handle portion (32); a hydraulic cylinder (56); a piston (58) movably disposed within the hydraulic cylinder (56); an actuating lever (18) pivotally mounted about a swing axis (P) relative to the base body (14, 114, 214), the actuating lever (18) being operatively connected to one of the hydraulic cylinder (56) and the piston (58) to generate a hydraulic force in response to pivotal movement of the actuating lever (18) relative to the base body (14, 114, 214); a fluid reservoir (54, 154, 254) in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinder (56); a communication input (40, 140, 240) connected to the liquid reservoir (54, 154, 254), wherein the operating lever (18) is provided with a switching operating part (24, 26) for carrying out a switching operation of a gearshift device; and a gearshift control unit, wherein the shift operating part (24, 26) is electrically connected to the gearshift control device. [2] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the base body (14, 114, 214) has a recess, and the gearshift control unit is mounted in the recess. [3] The actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the gear shift control unit is a microcomputer arranged in the base body (14, 114, 214). [4] The actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the gear shift control unit is arranged remotely from the base body (14, 114, 214). [5] An actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the shift operating part (24, 26) comprises a pair of shift operating parts (24, 26). [6] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to a of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base body (14, 114, 214) further comprises a knob portion (34) and a longitudinal axis, and the handle portion (32) is arranged between the handlebar mounting portion (30) and the knob portion (34) along the longitudinal axis of the base body (14, 114, 214). [7] An actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 6, wherein the longitudinal axis is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of a bicycle. [8] The actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 6 or 7, wherein at least one of the handlebar mounting portion (30), the grip portion (32) and the knob portion (34) has a detachable plate. [9] An operating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the handlebar mounting portion (30), the grip portion (32) and the knob portion (34) are formed as a one-piece unitary member. [10] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication inlet (40, 140, 240) has a projection (42, 142, 242) in order to be able to mount a correspondingly shaped oil funnel (F) thereon. [11] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication input (40) is arranged on an upper surface (36) of the base body (14). [12] An actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication input (240) is arranged on an upper surface (236) of the handle portion (232) of the base body (214). [13] Actuating device (110) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication input (140) is arranged on a lateral surface (114a) of the base body (14). [14] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication input (40, 140, 240) has a communication passage (44, 144, 244) which is in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinder (56) via the fluid reservoir (54, 154, 254). [15] Actuating device (10, 110) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 14, wherein the communication passage (44, 144) of the communication inlet (40, 140) has an opening at the inner end (44b, 144b) in an inner peripheral surface of the liquid reservoir (54, 154), the opening at the inner end (44b, 144b) of the communication passage (44, 144) of the communication inlet (40, 140) is arranged above a lower surface (70b, 170b) of the fluid reservoir (54, 154) while the actuating device (10, 110) for the hydraulic bicycle component is in an installed position. [16] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fluid reservoir (54, 154, 254) is in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinder (56) via an internal passage (80, 80', 280) extending therebetween, and the communication input (40, 140, 240) has a communication passage (44, 144, 244) which is in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinder (56) via at least a portion of the internal passage (80, 80', 280). [17] The actuating device (210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to claim 16, wherein the communication passage (244) of the communication input (240) has an inner end opening (244b) in an inner peripheral surface of the internal passage (280) at an elongated central portion of the internal passage (280). [18] Actuating device (10) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication passage (44) has an opening at the outer end (44a) which is designed as an inlet of the fluid reservoir (54) for filling hydraulic fluid into the hydraulic cylinder (56). [19] Actuating device (10) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication passage (44) has an opening at the outer end (44a) which is designed as an outlet of the fluid reservoir (54) for venting the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic cylinder (56). [20] The hydraulic bicycle component operating device (10, 110, 210) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the communication inlet (40, 140, 240) has a communication passage (44, 144, 244) with an opening at the outer end (44a, 144a, 244a) that opens upward when the hydraulic bicycle component operating device (10, 110) is in an installed position. [21] An actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the handlebar mounting portion (30) and the grip portion (32) of the base body (14) are integrally formed as a one-piece unitary member. [22] Actuating device (10, 110, 210) for a hydraulic bicycle component according to a of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a handlebar holder (20) which is attached to the handlebar mounting section (30) of the base body (14), the hydraulic cylinder (56) has a central axis (C1) which is laterally offset from a central axis (C2) of the handlebar holder (20).

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