Bicycle chain tensioner

Abstract

Bicycle chain tensioner (12) including: a bicycle mounting clamp (32), configured and intended to be mounted on a bicycle (10), and a chain tensioning element (34), linearly slidably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp (32) by means of a first coupling structure (36) to move in a lateral direction (X1), and by means of a second coupling structure (38) to move in a direction different from the lateral direction (X1) when the bicycle chain tensioner (12) is in use, wherein the chain tensioning element (34) is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp (32) by means of the second coupling structure (38), around a vertical pivot axis (A1) which is essentially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal median plane (P) and essentially perpendicular to the lateral direction (X1).

Description

[0001] This application claims priority over US application US 2014 / 0357436A1, which was filed on June 4, 2013. Reference is hereby made to the entire disclosure of US application US 2014 / 0357436A1. BACKGROUND Area of ​​the invention

[0002] This invention relates generally to a bicycle chain tensioner. More precisely, the present invention relates to a bicycle chain tensioner for a bicycle. Background information

[0003] A bicycle typically uses a chain drive to transmit pedal power to a rear wheel. A bicycle's chain drive often uses derailleurs to selectively move the chain from one of a variety of sprockets to another for gear changes. The sprockets offer different gear ratios based on their varying diameters. As the chain moves from one sprocket to another, it will either loosen, potentially allowing the chain to slip out of engagement with the sprocket, or tighten, potentially leading to chain breakage. Consequently, a bicycle chain tensioner is commonly used to maintain proper tension on the chain within the drive system.A conventional chain tensioner is mounted to the bicycle with a pivoting arm, featuring a tensioning pinion at its free end. The bicycle chain tensioner also incorporates a coil spring that pre-tensions the tensioning pinion in engagement with the chain.

[0004] With reference to US patent US 7,955,205 B2, a conventional chain tensioning device is disclosed. In this chain tensioning device, a locking position adjustment mechanism sets a locking position of a tensioning element relative to a clamp in a first direction by sliding. The first direction is essentially parallel to an axial direction of a rotation axis of a rear sprocket. Furthermore, with reference to international application WO 93 / 01967 A1, a derailleur for a multi-speed bicycle is disclosed. In this derailleur for a multi-speed bicycle, a chain receiving device has an elongated element extending along a rod, being longitudinally movable along and guided by the rod, and carrying a drive chain tensioning element at its rear end.The chain retainer pivots in a pivoting motion of the rod, which is achieved through the interaction of a pivot pin, a lever, a hook, and a slot. This pivoting motion of the rod enables gear changes on a bicycle. Furthermore, reference is made to US Patent US 7,905,805 B2, which discloses a tensioning device for a bicycle derailleur. In this tensioning device, a second sprocket is rotatably mounted to a second cage for applying tension to a drive chain. The second cage is slidably engaged with a rail of a sliding mechanism, allowing the cage to slide linearly along the rail. The tensioning device is mounted by first and second bushing elements, which dampen and absorb impacts on any component attached to a mounting frame, thus also allowing for a pendulum motion of the tensioning device.

[0005] EP 2 108 580 A1 describes a gear-shifting device comprising a shifting device and a clamping device. The shifting device and the clamping device are both mounted on a mounting frame, which is attached to a bicycle frame by a first mounting unit and a second mounting unit. A rear end of the mounting frame includes a first bushing connected to the first mounting unit. A front end of the mounting frame includes a second bushing connected to the second mounting unit 38. In one embodiment, the clamping device 250 comprises the first bushing and the second bushing. In this embodiment, the clamping device is able to oscillate as a pendulum about an axis that generally extends horizontally from the front to the rear of the bicycle through the second bushing.Furthermore, in this embodiment, the clamping device is arranged to rotate as a pendulum about a vertical axis which extends through the second bushing.

[0006] US 5,213,549 A describes a derailleur system for a bicycle. The derailleur system includes a torsionally rigid bar that extends along and beneath a frame member of the bicycle. The front end of the bar forms a sleeve that pivots on a downward-pointing pivot pin. The pivot pin is attached to the outer end of a transverse lever. The sleeve pivots around a pivot pin on a frame plate. The frame plate extends between the two frame members at the rear of a pedal axle housing.

[0007] FR 926 822 A describes a derailleur gear system for bicycles. The derailleur gear system includes a shift lever for laterally moving a chain. The shift lever has two arms, each carrying pulleys along which the chain runs. The shift lever is rotatable about a Y-axis and slides transversely on a sleeve along the Y-axis.

[0008] DE 26 26 163 A1 describes a rear derailleur for a bicycle gear system. This includes a chain guide device which contains a pivotably arranged support.

[0009] DE 295 00 597 U1 describes a device for pressing down a bicycle chain. The device comprises a fastening device with two separate fastening parts and a pressure wheel connected to these fastening parts.

[0010] DE 828 063 B discloses a chain shifting and retaining device for bicycle transmissions with chain changes between several sprockets of different sizes on the freewheel brake hub of a rear wheel. The chain shift wheel is slidably mounted on an axle bolt projecting inwards from the shifting arm of the device, and the shifting wheel, which is held in one end position by a spring, is moved by actuating a chain tension against this spring force. The shifting arm is connected by a lever linkage to a tensioning arm, which acts on the upper chain run via a guide roller, such that when the shifting arm moves upwards due to the tension on the lower chain run caused by backpedal braking, the tensioning arm lifts the upper chain run. OVERVIEW OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Essentially, the present disclosure discloses various features of a bicycle chain tensioner. One feature provides a bicycle chain tensioner that allows for a compact arrangement.

[0012] The technical object of the present application is to provide a bicycle chain tensioner that reliably guides the chain without introducing additional lateral friction onto the chain. This object is achieved by the subject matter of main claim 1 and the subject matter of dependent claims 12 and 14. Preferred aspects are defined in the dependent claims.

[0013] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle chain tensioner comprises a bicycle mounting clamp and a chain tensioning element. The bicycle mounting clamp is configured and designed to be mounted on a bicycle. The chain tensioning element is linearly slidably mounted to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of a first coupling structure to move in a lateral direction and by means of a second coupling structure to move in a direction other than the lateral direction while the bicycle chain tensioner is operating. The chain tensioning element is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of the second coupling structure about a vertical pivot axis, which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal median plane of the bicycle and substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction.

[0014] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and provided such that the first coupling structure has an interchangeable sliding axis with an effective length or working length that defines a measure of sliding movement of the chain tensioning element in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp.

[0015] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and designed such that the first coupling structure has a first pretensioning element which pretensions the chain tensioning element towards a neutral position in the lateral or sideways direction.

[0016] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and designed such that the first coupling structure includes a damper structure, which is configured and designed to dampen movement of the chain tensioning element relative to the bicycle mounting clamp. The damper structure has a pivot axis with a sliding part and a friction element, frictionally coupled to the sliding part of the pivot axis.

[0017] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and provided such that the damper structure continues to have a friction adjusting element which is configured and provided to adjust the friction coupling force of the friction element with respect to the sliding part of the pivot axis.

[0018] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and designed such that the chain tensioning element is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of the second coupling structure.

[0019] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and provided such that the second coupling structure has an adjusting element, adjustable to adjust the degree of pivoting movement of the first chain tensioning element in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp.

[0020] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and provided such that the second coupling structure has a damper structure which is configured and provided to dampen movement of the chain tensioning element in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp.

[0021] The bicycle chain tensioner further comprises a guide section and a chain engagement element. The guide section is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of the first and second coupling structures. The chain engagement element is movably coupled to the guide section.

[0022] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and designed such that the lateral direction is essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal median plane of the bicycle.

[0023] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and provided such that the chain tensioning element comprises a first chain engagement element and a second chain engagement element, wherein the first chain engagement element and the second chain engagement element are movable relative to each other.

[0024] According to the invention, a bicycle chain tensioner comprises a chain tensioning element, a bicycle mounting clamp, a guide section, a chain engagement element, and a second pretensioning element. The bicycle mounting clamp is configured and designed to be mounted on a bicycle. The guide section is coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp. The chain engagement element is linearly coupled to the guide section so as to slide laterally. The second pretensioning element is coupled to the guide section. The second pretensioning element pretensions the chain engagement element into a first position. The second pretensioning element overlaps with the guide section when viewed along at least one lateral and one perpendicular direction.The chain tensioning element is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of the second coupling structure, around a vertical pivot axis which is essentially parallel to a longitudinal median plane of the bicycle and essentially perpendicular to the lateral direction.

[0025] Preferably, the bicycle chain tensioner is configured and designed such that the lateral direction is essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal center plane of the bicycle and the vertical direction is essentially parallel to the longitudinal center plane of the bicycle.

[0026] According to the invention, a bicycle chain tensioner comprises a bicycle mounting clamp and a chain tensioning element. The bicycle mounting clamp is configured and designed to be mounted on a bicycle. The chain tensioning element is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of a first coupling structure to move in a lateral direction, and by means of a second coupling structure to move in a direction other than the lateral direction when the bicycle chain tensioner is in use.The chain tensioning element is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of the first coupling structure in order to pivot about a longitudinal pivot axis which is essentially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal center plane, and is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp by means of the second coupling structure in order to pivot about a vertical pivot axis which is essentially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal center plane and essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal pivot axis.

[0027] These and other features, aspects and advantages will become apparent to the person skilled in the art from the detailed description given below, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, reveals selected embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Reference is now made to the attached drawings, which form part of this original revelation: Fig. 1 is a partial side view of a bicycle, featuring a bicycle chain tensioner in accordance with a first embodiment; Fig. 2 is a perspective view from the outside of the in Fig. 1 bicycle chain tensioner shown; Fig. 3 is a perspective view from inside the building. Fig. 1 bicycle chain tensioner shown; Fig. 4 is a side view from the outside of the Fig. 1. Bicycle chain tensioner shown, representing the bicycle chain tensioner in a first position, with a second pretensioning element of the bicycle chain tensioner, which is unloaded; Fig. 5 is a side view from the outside of the Fig. 1 bicycle chain tensioner shown, depicting the bicycle chain tensioner in a second position, with the second pretensioning element of the bicycle chain tensioner under load; Fig. Figure 6 is a side view from the inside of the bicycle chain tensioner as shown in Fig. 1, depicting the bicycle chain tensioner in the in Fig. 4 shown first position; Fig. 7 is a front view of the in Fig. 1 bicycle chain tensioner shown; Fig. 8 is a top view of the in Fig. 1 bicycle chain tensioner shown; Fig. 9 is a top view of the in Fig. 1. Bicycle chain tensioner shown, with a bicycle mounting clamp partially removed; Fig. Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective partial front view of the in Fig. 1 bicycle chain tensioner shown; Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view from the outside of a bicycle chain tensioner in accordance with a second embodiment; Fig. 12 is a perspective view from inside the in Fig. 11 bicycle chain tensioner shown, with part of the bicycle chain tensioner shown removed; Fig. Figure 13 is an enlarged, partial perspective view of a first coupling structure, with a damper structure of a bicycle chain tensioner in accordance with a modified example of the second embodiment; Fig. Figure 14 is a perspective partial exploded view of the first coupling structure of the bicycle chain tensioner as shown in Fig. 13, where a support part is shown away from the first coupling structure; Fig. Figure 15 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a second coupling structure with a damper structure of a bicycle chain tensioner in accordance with a modified example of the second embodiment; and Fig. Figure 16 is a perspective partial exploded view of the second coupling structure of the bicycle chain tensioner, as shown in Fig. 15, where a basic element is shown away from the second coupling structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0029] Selected embodiments are now explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is evident to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are given for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the accompanying claims and their equivalents.

[0030] Initially referring to Fig. Figure 1 shows a bicycle 10 equipped with a bicycle chain tensioner 12 in accordance with a first embodiment. The bicycle 10 further comprises, among other things, a front crankset 14, a rear cassette 16, and a drive chain 18 (i.e., a chain) connecting the front crankset 14 to the rear cassette 16. The front crankset 14 is rotatably mounted in a bicycle frame 20 by means of a conventional bottom bracket in a conventional manner. The bicycle 10 further comprises a front derailleur 22 and a rear derailleur 24 for laterally shifting the chain 18 for gear changes. The front and rear derailleurs 22 and 24 are operatively coupled to switches (not shown) for actuating the front and rear derailleurs 22 and 24 in a conventional manner.

[0031] The bicycle 10 is conventional, apart from the bicycle chain tensioner 12, as described below. Therefore, the bicycle 10 will not be discussed further and / or described in detail here, except in relation to the present invention. Rather, it is evident to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the bicycle 10 has various conventional bicycle components, such as wheels, shifters, a handlebar, etc., which are coupled to the bicycle frame 20 in a conventional manner. Furthermore, it is evident to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that a multitude of modifications can be made to the bicycle 10 and its various components without deviating from the present invention as described and illustrated herein.Finally, it is evident to a person skilled in the art of this present invention that the bicycle 10 can be counted as belonging to various types of bicycles, such as racing bikes or mountain bikes, as required and / or desired.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 1. The bicycle chain tensioner 12, the front crankset 14, the rear cassette 16, and the rear derailleur 24 engage with the chain 18 to form a bicycle drivetrain for the bicycle 10, which transmits the rotation of the pedals of the front crankset 14 to the rear cassette 16 and a rear wheel (not shown). The bicycle chain tensioner 12 and the rear derailleur 24 are coupled to a chainstay of the bicycle frame 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear derailleur 24 is a conventional rear derailleur device with only one guide sprocket, as described, for example, in US Patent No. 7,905,805. Therefore, a detailed description of the rear derailleur 24 is omitted for the sake of brevity. Naturally, the rear derailleur 24 can be counted among different types of rear derailleurs, as needed and / or desired.

[0033] As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 essentially comprises a bicycle mounting clamp 32 and a chain tensioning device 34 (i.e., a chain tensioning element). In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 also comprises a first coupling structure 36, a second coupling structure 38, a base element 40, and a movable element 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 also comprises a first chain engagement element 46, a guide section 48, a second chain engagement element 50 (i.e., a chain engagement element), and a second pretensioning element 52.

[0034] As best seen in Fig. 2. The bicycle mounting clamp 32 is configured and designed to be mounted on the bicycle 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle mounting clamp 32 is made of a metallic material or any other suitable material for securely supporting the chain tensioning device 34 with respect to the bicycle frame 20 of the bicycle 10. The bicycle mounting clamp 32 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element. The bicycle mounting clamp 32 is mounted directly to the bicycle frame 20 by means of a pair of screws (not shown) or any other conventional method of fastening.

[0035] The chain tensioning device 34 is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 by means of the first coupling structure 36 for movement in a lateral direction X1 and by means of the second coupling structure 38 for movement in a direction different from the lateral direction X1 during use of the bicycle chain tensioner 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral direction X1 is essentially perpendicular to a longitudinal center axis P of the bicycle (see Fig. 7 to 9). The longitudinal center axis P of the bicycle extends through a lateral center of the bicycle frame 20 of the bicycle 10 and extends in a vertical direction X2 and a longitudinal direction X3, which are perpendicular to the lateral direction X1. In other words, the lateral direction X1 is essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis P of the bicycle, whereas the vertical direction X1 and the longitudinal direction X3 are essentially parallel to the direction of extension of the longitudinal center axis of the bicycle. In the illustrated embodiment, the chain tensioning device 34 is essentially formed by the first chain engagement element 46, the guide section 48, the second chain engagement element 50, and the second pretensioning element 52 for applying tension to the chain 18.The detailed configurations of the first chain engagement element 46, the guide section 48, the second chain engagement element 50, and the second pretensioning element 52 will be described later.

[0036] As can be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. The chain tensioning device 34 is slidably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 by means of the first coupling structure 36 for movement in the lateral direction X1. In particular, the first coupling structure 36 has a pair of replaceable sliding axles 56 and two pairs of first preload elements 58. The sliding axles 56 extend through a pair of through holes 62a of a coupling section 62 of the base element 40 and are rigidly coupled to a pair of mounting holes 64a of a mounting section 64 of the bicycle mounting clamp 32 such that the sliding axles 56 extend parallel to the lateral direction X1. The sliding axles 56 are made of steel or any other rigid material suitable for supporting or carrying the chain tensioning device 34. As can be seen in Fig. 3. The sliding axes 56 are arranged through the through holes 62a of the coupling section 62 of the base element 40 by means of a pair of linear bushings 66. The bushings 66 are made of a plastic material or any other material suitable for bushings. The bushings 66 are each inserted into the through holes 62a of the coupling section 62. With this arrangement, the base element 40 slides freely relative to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 along the sliding axes 56 in the lateral direction X1. In other words, the base element 40 is slidably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 by means of a sliding connection in order to move in the lateral direction X1 during actuation of the bicycle chain tensioner 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the chain tensioning device 34 is operatively coupled to the base element 40.Consequently, the chain tensioning device 34 is also slidable with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 along the sliding axes 56 in the lateral direction X1. With this arrangement, the sliding connection between the bicycle mounting clamp 32 and the base element 40 allows lateral movement of the chain 18 during a gear change operation using the rear derailleur 24 with only one guide sprocket.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the sliding axes 56 are detachably or interchangeably attached to the base element 40. As can be seen in Fig. 9. The sliding axles 56 have an effective length L1, which defines the degree of sliding movement of the chain tensioning device 34 relative to the bicycle mounting clamp 32. Therefore, if a greater sliding movement of the chain tensioning device 34 is desired or required, longer sliding axles 56 can be used. Conversely, shorter sliding axles 56 can be used if a smaller degree of sliding movement of the chain tensioning device 34 is desired or required. In other words, the sliding axles 56 are interchangeable according to a required or desired degree of sliding movement of the chain tensioning device 34. Accordingly, the sliding axle 56 with a first fixed length is replaced by a new sliding axle with a second fixed length to adjust the degree of sliding movement of the base element 40. Alternatively, the effective length can be...The effective length of the sliding shafts 56 can be adjusted using shims or the like. It is self-evident to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the sliding shafts 56 are configured and designed in such a way that they are not interchangeably attached to the base element 40.

[0038] As can be seen in Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the pair of first preload elements 58 is each attached to the sliding axes 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the first preload elements 58 are each formed by independent compression springs (i.e., four compression springs). Of course, the first preload elements 58 can be formed by any other suitable preload element. The first preload elements 58 preload the chain tensioning device 34 towards a neutral position in the lateral direction X1. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, one of the pairs of first preload elements 58 (i.e., two separate compression springs) is attached concentrically to a corresponding sliding axe 56 between the coupling section 62 of the base element 40 and a head section 56a of the sliding axe 56.On the other hand, the other of the first preload elements 58 is concentrically attached to the corresponding sliding axis 56 between the coupling section 62 of the base element 40 and the mounting section 64 of the bicycle mounting clamp 32. The first preload element 58 of the other pair of first preload elements 58 is likewise concentrically attached to another of the sliding axes 56 in the same manner as described above. In short, the first preload elements 58 each tension the coupling section 62 of the base element 40 towards the neutral position or mid-rest position (see ). Fig. 9) before. The neutral position corresponds to axial center positions on the sliding axes 56 in the lateral direction between the head sections 56a of the sliding axes 56 and an inner surface of the fastening section 64 of the bicycle mounting clamp 32.

[0039] As can be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the chain tensioning device 34 is pivotably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 by means of the second coupling structure 38 about a vertical pivot axis A1, which is essentially parallel to the direction of extension of the bicycle's longitudinal center axis P and essentially perpendicular to the lateral direction X1. In particular, the movable element 42 is pivotably coupled to the base element 40 by means of the second coupling structure 38 about the vertical pivot axis A1. The chain tensioning device 34 is operatively coupled to the movable element 42, whereas the base element 40 is operatively coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32. Therefore, the chain tensioning device 34 is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 via the base element 40 and the movable element 42.In particular, the chain tensioning device 34 is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32, so that the alignment of the chain tensioning device 34 with respect to the longitudinal direction X3, as seen in the vertical direction X2, can be automatically adjusted according to the alignment of the chain 18 on the bicycle chain tensioner 12. Specifically, the pivot connection between the base element 40 and the movable element 42 accommodates or compensates for an angle or inclination of the chain 18 with respect to the longitudinal direction X1, as seen in the vertical direction X2. Specifically, when the chain 18 is engaged with a front upper chainring of the front crankset 14 and a rear low sprocket of the rear cassette 16, the chain is engaged with the front upper chainring and another rear sprocket as a result of a gear change actuation by the rear derailleur 24.Even in this case, the movable element 42 pivots around the vertical pivot axis A1 to accommodate or compensate for the angle of the chain 18 with respect to the longitudinal direction X3. In particular, even if the angle between the orientation of the chain 18 and the longitudinal direction X1 increases, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 can prevent the chain 18 from disengaging.

[0040] As can be seen in Fig. 6, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the second coupling structure 38 has a pair of counter bearings 70 and a pair of adjusting elements 72. The counter bearings 70 are arranged between the base element 40 and the movable element 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the counter bearings 70 have radial bearings made of plastic material or any other material suitable for bearings. As is best described in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, one of the counter bearings 70 is located between an upper jaw 76a of the base element 40 and an upper bearing support 78a of the movable element 42, while the other counter bearing 70 is located between a lower jaw 76b of the base element 40 and a lower bearing support 78b of the movable element 42. With this arrangement, the movable element 42 is pivotably supported or carried by the base element 40 via the counter bearings 70 around the vertical pivot axis A1. More precisely, in the illustrated embodiment, the counter bearings 70 are fixedly attached to the upper and lower bearing supports 78a and 78b of the movable element 42 by fasteners, adhesive, or any other type of fastening.Furthermore, the counter bearings 70 are pivotably attached to bearing holes which are formed in the upper and lower jaws 76a and 76 of the base element 40, which results in the movable element 42 being pivotably carried or supported by the base element 40 between the upper and lower jaws 76a and 76b of the base element 40.

[0041] As can be seen in Fig. 6, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the adjusting elements 72 are arranged to adjust a dimension of pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 34 in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp 32. In particular, as best seen in Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting elements 72 have threaded pins, each coupled to a pair of distal ends 80 of the upper jaw 76a of the base element 40. The adjusting elements 72 are made of a metallic material, such as brass, stainless steel, or any other suitable material. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting elements 72 are screwed into screw holes of the distal ends 80 of the upper jaw 76a such that the projection of the adjusting elements 72 relative to the inner surfaces of the distal ends 80 of the base element 40 is adjustable. The movable element 42 has a stop 82 at an upper end. The stop 82 is located between the inner surfaces of the distal ends 80 and the base element 40 in the lateral direction X1 when the movable element 42 is pivotally mounted to the base element 40.When the adjusting elements 72 project inwards with respect to the inner surfaces of the distal ends 80 of the base element 40, the pivoting movement of the stop 82 of the movable element 42 is limited by the adjusting elements 72. In particular, the degree of pivoting movement of the movable element 42 with respect to the base element is adjusted or limited according to a lateral dimension or extent between the distal ends of the adjusting elements 72 in the lateral direction X1. In the illustrated embodiment, the chain tensioning device 34 is operatively coupled to the movable element 42, while the base element 40 is operatively coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32. Consequently, a degree of pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 34 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 is set by the adjusting elements 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting elements 72 have threaded pins.However, the adjusting elements 72 can be different types of screws. In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 40 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element made of metallic material or any other suitable material. The movable element 42 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element made of metallic material or any other suitable material. However, it is obvious to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the base element 40 and the movable element 42 can each be formed from a plurality of parts, just as required and / or desired.

[0042] With reference to Fig. Sections 4 to 10 describe the chain tensioning device 34 in more detail. As can be seen in Fig. 4 to 6, the chain tensioning device 34 is essentially formed by the first chain engagement element 46, the guide section 48, the second chain engagement element 50 and the second pretensioning element 52 to apply tension to the chain 18. In particular, the chain tensioning device 34 applies tension to the chain 18 by adjusting a distance between the first chain engagement element 46 and the second chain engagement element 50.

[0043] The first chain engagement element 46 is rigidly coupled to the movable element 42. As can best be seen in Fig. 7, the first chain engagement element 46 essentially comprises a pair of chain cage plates 84 and a tensioning pinion 86, which is arranged between the chain cage plates 84. In the illustrated embodiment, the first chain engagement element 46 is not movably mounted to the movable element 42. In particular, an upper end section of the inner chain cage plate 84 is secured to a lower body 78c of the movable element 42 by a screw 88. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper end section of the inner chain cage plate 84 can be fixedly attached to the movable element 42 in a plurality of (i.e., three) securing or fastening positions with respect to an axis that is parallel to the lateral direction X1. Alternatively, the first chain engagement element 46 can be pivotally coupled to the lower body 78c of the movable element 42.In this case, a torsion spring is provided between the first chain engagement element 46 and the movable element 42 to pre-tension the first chain engagement element 46 around a pivot axis in one direction of rotation.

[0044] The guide section 48 is coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32. In particular, the guide section 48 is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 by the first coupling structure 36 and the second coupling structure 38. The guide section 48 is essentially an elongated element having an internal groove 90 extending along the guide section 48 in the longitudinal direction X3. The guide section 48 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element and is made of a metallic material or any other suitable material. As can be seen in Fig. In sections 4 to 6, the guide section 48 is rigidly and immovably coupled to the movable element 42 by means of a pair of screws 92. Specifically, the guide section 48 is secured to an upper body 78d of the movable element 42 by one of the screws 92 at an end part 48a of the guide section 48. The guide section 48 is also attached to a fastening part 78e of the movable element 42, which extends from the upper and lower bodies 78d and 78c of the movable element 42, by means of the other screw 92 at a fastening lug 48b of the guide section 48. In this arrangement, the guide section 48 is secured to the movable element 42 in a cantilever manner.In the illustrated embodiment, the movable element 42 is movably coupled to the base element 40 by means of the second coupling structure 38, while the base element 40 is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 by means of the first coupling structure 36. Consequently, the guide section 48 is slidable in the lateral direction X1 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 32 and pivotable about the vertical pivot axis A1 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 32.

[0045] The second chain engagement element 50 is movably coupled to the guide section 48. As can best be seen in Fig. 7, the second chain engagement element 50 essentially comprises a pair of chain cage plates 94, a tensioning pinion 96 rotatably arranged between the chain cage plates 94, and a pair of support rollers 98 (only one in Fig. (10 shown) which are rotatably coupled to the inner chain cage plate 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the second chain engagement element 50 is slidably mounted to the guide section 48. In particular, the support rollers 98 are attached to the inner chain cage plate 94 by means of a pair of pins or screws. As can be seen in Fig. 10, the rollers 98 are arranged sliding within the inner groove 90 of the guide section 48 such that the second chain engagement element 50 is slidably in relation to the guide section 48 between a first position (see Fig. 4) and a second position (see Fig. 5) is. As can be seen in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the first position is further away from the end part 48a of the guide section 48, which is secured to the movable element 42, than the second position. As can be seen in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. The sliding movement of the second chain engagement element 50 beyond the first position is limited by a retaining pin 102, which is attached to the guide section 48. The distal end of the retaining pin 102 extends into the inner groove 90. The distal end of the retaining pin 102 contacts one of the support rollers 98 within the inner groove 90 when the second chain engagement element 50 is in the first position, which limits the sliding movement of the second chain engagement element 50 in the first position.

[0046] The second prestressing element 52 is coupled to the guide section 48. In particular, as can be seen in Fig. In Figures 4 to 6, the second pretensioning element 52 is coupled to another end part 48c (i.e., an end part) of the guide section 48. The end part 48c is located at an opposite end of the end part 48a. More precisely, one end of the second pretensioning element 52 is directly secured to a locking part 48d of the guide section 48, which is formed on the end section 48c, whereas the other end of the second pretensioning element 52 is directly attached to a locking part 94a of the inner chain cage plate 94 of the second chain engagement element 50. In this arrangement, the second pretensioning element 52 is operatively positioned between the guide section 48 and the second chain engagement element 50, such that the second pretensioning element 52 pretensions the second chain engagement element 50 into the first position. In the illustrated embodiment, as can be seen in Figures 4 to 6, the second pretensioning element 52 is operatively positioned between the guide section 48 and the second chain engagement element 50, such that the second pretensioning element 52 pretensions the second chain engagement element 50 into the first position. Fig. 4 to 10, the second prestressing element 52 is arranged along an upper surface of the guide section 48 such that the second prestressing element 52 overlaps with the guide section 48 when viewed in the vertical direction X2 (see Fig. 8 and Fig. 9) Naturally, the second preload element 52 can be arranged along a side face of the guide section 48 such that the second preload element 52 overlaps the guide section 48 when viewed in the lateral direction X1. In other words, the second preload element 52 can overlap the guide section 48 when viewed from at least one of the directions of lateral direction X1 and perpendicular direction X2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second preload element 52 has a tension spring that extends when tension is applied. As can be seen in Fig. 4. The second pretensioning element 52 is unloaded and contracted when the second chain engagement element 50 is in the first position. Conversely, the second pretensioning element 52 is loaded and extended when the second chain engagement element 50 is in the second position, which pretensions the second chain engagement element 50 into the first position along the guide section 48. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the second pretensioning element 52 may comprise or be a compression spring or any other suitable pretensioning element.

[0047] In this embodiment, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 applies tension to the chain 18 by displacing the second chain engagement element 50 relative to the first chain engagement element 46 along the guide section 48 in the longitudinal direction X3. Furthermore, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 is equipped with a sliding connection and a pivoting connection between the bicycle mounting clamp 32 and the chain tensioning device 34. Consequently, the bicycle chain tensioner 12 prevents chain noise and friction between the chain 18 and the chain tensioning device 34. In addition, the second pretensioning element 52 is directly coupled to the guide section 48, resulting in a smaller overall size.The size of the bicycle chain tensioner 12 can be kept small in the longitudinal direction X3 and the arrangability in relation to the mounting position of the bicycle chain tensioner 12 on the bicycle frame 20 of the bicycle 10 can be improved. SECOND VERSION

[0048] With reference to Fig. 11 and Fig. In the following, a bicycle chain tensioner 112 in accordance with a second embodiment is described. The bicycle chain tensioner 112 is essentially identical to the bicycle chain tensioner 12 according to the first embodiment, except that the sliding connection of the bicycle chain tensioner 12 is replaced by a pivot connection of the bicycle chain tensioner 112 as described below.

[0049] Given the similarity between the first and second embodiments, the parts of the second embodiment that are identical to the parts of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first embodiment. Likewise, the parts of this second embodiment that are functionally identical and / or substantially identical to the parts of the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, with "100" added to them. In any case, for the sake of brevity, descriptions of the parts of the second embodiment that are substantially identical to the parts of the first embodiment cannot be given. However, it is evident to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the descriptions and illustrations of the first embodiment can also be applied to this second embodiment, apart from what is given and / or illustrated below.

[0050] As can be seen in Fig. 11 and Fig. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle chain tensioner 112 essentially comprises a bicycle mounting clamp 132 and a chain tensioning device 134 (i.e., a chain tensioning element). In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle chain tensioner 112 also comprises a first coupling structure 136, a second coupling structure 138, a base element 140, and a movable element 142. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle chain tensioner 112 comprises a first chain engagement element 146, a guide section 148, a second chain engagement element 150 (i.e., a chain engagement element), and a second pretensioning element 152.

[0051] The bicycle mounting clamp 132 is configured and designed to be attached to the bicycle 10 (see Fig. 1) to be mounted. The bicycle mounting clamp 132 securely supports or carries the chain tensioning device 134 in relation to the bicycle frame 20 (see Fig. 1) of the bicycle 10. The bicycle mounting clamp 132 is attached directly to the bicycle frame 20 by means of screws (not shown), or by any other conventional means. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle mounting clamp 132 has a base part 133a, an intermediate part 133b, and a support part 133c. The base part 133a is directly coupled to the bicycle frame 20. The intermediate part 133b is adjustably coupled to the base part 133a by means of screws. In particular, the intermediate part 133b is pivotably adjustable about a pivot axis parallel to the lateral direction X1. The support part 133c is fixedly attached to the intermediate part 133b by means of a screw. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle mounting clamp 132 is formed by three parts.However, it is evident to the expert from this revelation that the bicycle mounting clamp 132 integrally can be designed as a one-piece unitary element exactly as required and / or desired.

[0052] The chain tensioning device 134 is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 by means of the first coupling structure 136 to move in the lateral direction X1, and by means of the second coupling structure 138 to move in a direction different from the lateral direction X1 during actuation of the bicycle chain tensioner 112. The chain tensioning device 134 is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 by means of the first coupling structure 136 to pivot about a longitudinal pivot axis A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal pivot axis A2 extends in a direction that is not parallel to a longitudinal center axis P of the bicycle. However, the longitudinal pivot axis A2 can extend in a direction that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal center axis P of the bicycle (see Figure 136). Fig. 8) is and is essentially perpendicular to the lateral direction X1.

[0053] In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling structure 136 has a linkage 135. The linkage 135 connects the bicycle mounting clamp 132 and the base element 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the linkage 135 has a first or outer clip 135a and a second or inner clip 135b. The outer and inner clips 135a and 135b are made of a metallic material or any other suitable material. One end of the outer clip 135a is pivotally connected to the support part 133c of the bicycle mounting clamp 132 by means of a pivot pin 137a about a first pivot axis. The second end of the outer clip 135a is pivotally connected to a fastening part 140a of the base element 140 by means of a pivot pin 137b about a second pivot axis.One end of the inner clip 135b is pivotally connected to the support part 133c of the bicycle mounting clamp 132 by means of a pivot pin 137 about a third pivot axis. The second end of the inner clip 135b is pivotally connected to the fastening part 140a of the base element 140 by means of a pivot pin 137d about a fourth pivot axis. Consequently, the inner and outer clips 135a and 135b have first ends that are pivotally connected to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 and second ends that are pivotally connected to the base element 140, in order to define or form a four-bar linkage. In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 140 is operatively connected to the chain tensioning device 134. Consequently, the chain tensioning device 134 is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 by means of the first coupling structure in order to pivot about the longitudinal pivot axis A2.The inner clamp 135b has a pair of stop pins 135c extending towards the outer clamp 135a. The stop pins 135c of the inner clamp 135b contact the outer clamp 135a to prevent the base element 140 from moving outside a desired range of motion around the longitudinal pivot axis A2 of the chain tensioning device 134 during a pivoting movement. Alternatively or additionally, the linkage 135 can have a pre-tensioning element positioned between the outer and inner clamps 135a and 135b to pre-tension the chain tensioning device 134 towards a neutral position in the lateral direction X1 in a conventional manner.

[0054] The base element 140 pivotally supports or carries the movable element 142 around the vertical pivot axis A1 by means of the second coupling structure 138. The chain tensioning device 134 is operatively coupled to the movable element 142, whereas the base element 140 is operatively coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132. Consequently, the chain tensioning device 134 is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 via the base element 140 and the movable element 142.

[0055] The second coupling structure 138 has a counter bearing 170 and a pair of adjusting elements 172. The counter bearing 170 is arranged between the base element 140 and the movable element 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the counter bearing 170 has radial bearings made of plastic or any other material suitable for bearings. The counter bearing 170 is fixedly attached to a bearing support 178a of the movable element 142 by fasteners, adhesive, or any other conventional fastening method. Furthermore, the counter bearing 170 is pivotally mounted to a bearing opening formed in a fastening part 176 of the base element 140, resulting in the movable element 142 being pivotally supported by the base element 140.

[0056] The adjusting elements 172 are arranged to adjust the degree of pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 134 relative to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 around the vertical pivot axis A1. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting elements 172 have a pair of threaded pins that are adjustably coupled to a pair of flanges 180 of the movable element. The adjusting elements 172 are made of a metallic material, such as brass, stainless steel, or any other suitable material. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjusting elements 172 are screwed into threaded bores of the flanges 180 of the movable element 142 such that a projection of the adjusting elements 172 relative to the inner surfaces of the flanges 180 of the movable element 142 can be adjusted. The base element 140 has a stop 182.The stop 182 is arranged between the inner surfaces of the flanges 180 of the movable element 142 in the longitudinal direction X3, whereas the movable element 142 is pivotably attached to the base element 140. If the adjusting elements 172 project inwards with respect to the inner surfaces of the flanges 180 of the movable element 142, the pivoting movement of the stop 182 of the base element 140 is limited by the adjusting elements 172. In particular, the extent of the pivoting movement of the movable element 142 with respect to the base element 140 can be adjusted or limited according to a longitudinal dimension or extent between the distal ends of the adjusting elements 172 in the longitudinal direction X3. In the illustrated embodiment, the chain tensioning device 134 is operatively coupled to the movable element 142, while the base element 140 is operatively coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132.Accordingly, the degree of pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 134 relative to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 can be adjusted by the adjusting elements 172. In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 140 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element and is made of a metallic material or any other suitable material. The movable element 142 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element and is made of a metallic material or any other suitable material. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the base element 140 and the movable element 142 can each be manufactured from a plurality of parts, as required and / or desired.

[0057] The chain tensioning device 134 is essentially formed by the first chain engagement element 146, the guide section 148, the second chain engagement element 150 and the second pretensioning element 152 to apply tension to the chain 18 (see Fig. 1) to apply. In particular, the chain tensioning device 134 applies tension to the chain 18 by adjusting a distance between the first chain engagement element 146 and the second chain engagement element 150.

[0058] The first chain engagement element 146 is rigidly coupled to the movable element 142. The first chain engagement element 146 essentially comprises a pair of chain cage plates 184 and a tensioning pinion 186, which is rotatably arranged between the chain cage plates 184. In the illustrated embodiment, the first chain engagement element 146 is not movably mounted to the movable element 142. In particular, an upper end section of the inner chain cage plate 184 is fastened to a lower body 178b of the movable element 142 by means of a screw 188. The first chain engagement element 146 is essentially identical to the first chain engagement element 46 in accordance with the first embodiment. Therefore, a detailed description is omitted for the sake of brevity.

[0059] The guide section 148 is essentially an elongated element. The guide section 148 essentially comprises an outer housing 190a, a pair of end caps 190b, and an inner rod 190c. The outer housing 190a is rigidly coupled to an upper clamping body 178c of the movable element 142, such that the upper clamping body 178c clamps an outer circumferential surface of the outer housing 190a. The outer housing 190a is also attached to the upper clamping body 178c of the movable element 142 by means of a screw or other suitable fastener. The end caps 190b are attached to the ends of the outer housing 190a. The inner rod 190c extends between the end caps 190b in the longitudinal direction X3. In this arrangement, the guide section 148 is secured to the movable element 142 in a cantilever manner.In the illustrated embodiment, the movable element 142 is movably coupled to the base element 140 by means of the second coupling structure 138, whereas the base element 140 is movably coupled to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 by means of the first coupling structure 136. Consequently, the guide section 148 is pivotable in the lateral direction X1 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 and pivotable about the vertical pivot axis A1 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 132.

[0060] The second chain engagement element 150 is movably coupled to the guide section 148. The second chain engagement element 150 essentially comprises a pair of chain cage plates 194, a tensioning pinion 196 rotatably located between the chain cage plates 194, and a support arm 198 extending from the inner chain cage plate 194. In the illustrated embodiment, the second chain engagement element 150 is slidably mounted to the guide section 148. Specifically, the support arm 198 is fastened to the inner chain cage plate 194 by means of a screw. The support arm 198 extends through a guide slot 190d formed in the outer housing 190a. The guide slot 190d extends in the longitudinal direction X3 to define a range for sliding movement of the second chain engagement element 150 relative to the guide section 148. The support arm 198 has a tube section 198a at a distal end (see Fig. 11) thereof. The pipe section 198a is slidably coupled to the inner pipe 190c of the guide section 148a within the outer housing 190a of the guide section 148, so that the second chain engagement element 150 slidably with respect to the guide section 148 between a first position (see Fig. 11 and Fig. 12) and a second position along the inner rod 190c.

[0061] The second preloading element 152 is coupled to the guide section 148. In particular, the second preloading element 152 is rigidly coupled to one of the end caps 190b of the guide section 148. One of the end caps 190b of the guide section 148 is located further from a clamping position in which the movable element 142 clamps the guide section 148 than the other end cap 190b. In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the second preloading element 152 is directly attached to one end of the end caps 190b of the guide section 148, while the other end of the second preloading element 152 is directly attached to a locking part of the pipe section 198a of the second chain engagement element 150.In this arrangement, the second pretensioning element 152 is positioned between the guide section 148 and the second chain engagement element 150, such that the second pretensioning element 152 pretensions the second chain engagement element 150 into the first position towards one of the end caps 190b of the guide section 148. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pretensioning element 152 has a tension spring or a tension spring which extends when tension or force is applied. Consequently, when the second chain engagement element 150 is in the first position, the second pretensioning element 152 is unloaded and compressed. Conversely, when the second chain engagement element 150 is in the second position, the second pretensioning element 152 is loaded and elongated, which pretensions the second chain engagement element 150 into the first position along the guide section 148.It is obvious to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the second preloading element 152 may have a compression spring or any other preloading device suitable for this purpose.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, as shown in Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, in a modified example of the bicycle chain tensioner 112 in accordance with the second embodiment, the first coupling structure 136 may have a damper structure 210 which is configured and provided to dampen a movement of the chain tensioning device 134 (i.e. a chain tensioning element) with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 132.

[0063] More precisely, the damping structure 210 is positioned between the bicycle mounting clamp 132 and the chain tensioning device 134 and dampens lateral movement of the chain tensioning device 134 relative to the bicycle mounting clamp 132. This is shown in particular in Fig. 14, the damper structure 210 has the pivot pin 137c (i.e., the linkage axis) frictionally coupled to the bushing 212 of the pivot pin 137c (i.e., the sliding part of the linkage axis) by means of a sleeve or bushing 212 (a sliding part) and a clamping element 214 (i.e., a friction-generating element). The damper structure 210 also has a four-sided or square nut 216 and an adjusting screw 218 (i.e., a friction-adjusting element).

[0064] The bushing 212 is essentially a tubular element made of resin, such as a plastic. Of course, the bushing 212 can be made of a different material, such as metal, if this is suitable for forming a radial bearing. The bushing 212 is rigidly coupled to an end section 222 of the pivot pin 137c (i.e., the pivot axis) of the linkage 135. The end section 222 of the pivot pin 137c has a pair of flat or planar surfaces 222a on an outer circumferential surface of the pivot pin 137c, such that the end section 222 has an oval or stadium-shaped cross-section. The bushing 212 has an inner circumference with a shape corresponding to the oval or stadium-shaped cross-section of the end section 222 of the pivot pin 137c. Consequently, the bushing 212 is not rotatably coupled to the end section 222 of the pivot pin 137c.Alternatively, the end section 222 of the pivot pin 137c can have a continuously circular outer circumferential surface, and the bushing 212 can have a corresponding circular inner circumferential surface. This is shown in [reference]. Fig. 14, the pivot pin 137c is rigidly coupled to the inner clip 135b by a threaded or set screw or another suitable fastening method, such that the pivot pin 137c and the inner clip 135b pivot integrally, or together, with respect to the support part 133c. In other words, the first coupling structure 136 additionally has the linkage 135, which pivotally couples the chain tensioning device 134 (i.e., the chain tensioning element) with respect to the bicycle mounting bracket 132. The linkage 135, the inner clip 135b (i.e., the linkage element), is rigidly coupled to the pivot pin 137c (i.e., the linkage axis) of the damper structure 210.

[0065] The clamping element 214 has a ring part 214a and a pair of extension parts 214b, which extend radially outwards from both circumferential ends of the ring part 214a such that the extension parts 214b are circumferentially opposite each other. The clamping element 214 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element and is made of metal sheet material. Naturally, the clamping element 214 can be made of another elastic material, such as plastic. The ring part 214a is slidably attached with respect to an outer circumferential surface of the bushing 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring part 214a is frictionally coupled to the bushing 212 by means of the pivot pin 137c. The ring part 214a essentially forms a torsional spring, which biases the extension parts 214b circumferentially away from each other.In the illustrated embodiment, the ring part 214a has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the bushing 212 when the clamping element 214 is in a rest state. Conversely, the ring part 214a has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the bushing 212 when the clamping element 214 is in a preloaded or loaded state, in which the extension parts 214b are preloaded relative to each other. In other words, the ring part 214a presses against the outer circumferential surface of the bushing 212 to increase a frictional coupling force between the clamping element 214 and the bushing 212 on the pivot pin 137c when the clamping element 214 is in the loaded state, which also increases the damping on the first coupling structure 136.

[0066] The bushing 212 and the clamping element 214 are essentially housed in a recess 224a of a housing section 224 of the carrier part 133c. The recess 224a has a shape that corresponds to an outer profile of the clamping element 214. Consequently, the clamping element 214 is not rotatably fitted into the recess 224a of the housing section 224. Likewise, the bushing 212, which is coupled to the pivot pin 137c, is pivotally arranged by the ring part 214a of the clamping element 214. As can be seen in Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, the recess 224a of the housing section 224 is covered by a cover 226, which is detachably attached to the housing section 224.

[0067] The nut 216 is also arranged in the recess 224a of the housing section 224. The nut 216 has an upper surface that is opposite a lower extension part 214b of the clamping element 214 and a lower surface that is opposite the upper surface. The nut 216 has a threaded through-hole (not shown) in the center of the nut 216, which extends through the nut 216 between the upper and lower surfaces of the nut 216. The adjusting screw 218 is rotatably attached to a screw fastening section 228 of the housing section 224. The screw fastening section 228 has an inner bore (not shown) that communicates with the recess 224a of the housing section 224. The adjusting screw 218 is arranged through the inner bore of the screw fastening section 228 and screwed into the nut 216.In particular, the adjusting screw 218 is screwed into the threaded through-hole of the nut 216 in such a way that a protrusion of a distal end of the adjusting screw 218 in relation to the upper surface of the nut 216 is adjustable.

[0068] When the adjusting screw 218 is screwed into the threaded through-hole of the nut 216 to increase its projection, the distal end of the adjusting screw 218 moves the lower extension part 214b towards the upper extension part 214b. This action clamps the bushing 212 by the ring part 214a, thereby increasing the frictional coupling force of the ring part 214a relative to the bushing 212. This increases the frictional resistance to the relative movement of the carrier part 133c and the inner clip 135b, since the clamping element 214 is arranged non-rotatably within the housing section 224 of the carrier part 133c and the pivot pin 137c, to which the bushing 212 is non-rotatably coupled, is fixedly coupled to the inner clip 135b. As a result, this also increases the damping of the lateral movement of the chain tensioning device 134 in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 via the first coupling structure 136.On the other hand, when the adjusting screw 218 is unscrewed from the threaded through-hole of the nut 216 to reduce the protrusion of the adjusting screw 218, the lower of the extension parts 214b will consequently follow the distal end of the adjusting screw 218 away from the upper of the extension parts 214b due to a spring force of the ring part 214a, thereby reducing the pressure on the bushing 212 by the ring part 214a and thus reducing the frictional coupling force of the ring part 214a with respect to the bushing 212. This reduces the frictional resistance to the relative movement of the carrier part 133c and the inner clip 135b. As a result, this reduces the damping of the lateral movement of the chain tensioning device 134 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 via the first coupling structure 136. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the damping structure 210 has the adjusting screw 218 (i.e.,the friction adjusting element), which is configured and intended to adjust the friction coupling force of the clamping element 214 (i.e. the friction element) in relation to the bushing 212 on the pivot pin 137c (i.e. the sliding part of the pivot axis).

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the damper structure 210 is operatively arranged between the support part 133c and the pivot pin 137c. However, alternatively or additionally, the damper structure 210 can be arranged between the support part 133c and any one of the pivot pins 137a, 137b, and 137c. Likewise, in the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling structure 136 has only one damper structure 210 on the pivot pin 137c. However, the first coupling structure 136 can have a plurality of damper structures in any combination on the pivot pins 137a, 137b, 137c, and 137d.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the first coupling structure 136 comprises the damper structure 210, which has the clamping element 214 that is frictionally coupled to the bushing 212 of the pivot pin 137c in order to dampen the movement of the first coupling structure 136. However, the first coupling structure 136 can have other types of damper structures. For example, the first coupling structure 136 can have a fluid damper, using a magnetic fluid as the damper structure, which is controlled by a magnetic field using an electromagnet.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, as can be seen in Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, in another modified example of the bicycle chain tensioner 112, in accordance with the second embodiment, the second coupling structure 138 can have a damper structure 310, which is configured and provided to dampen the movement of the chain tensioning device 134 (i.e., the chain tensioning element) with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 132. In the illustrated embodiment, this damper structure 310 can be added to the bicycle chain tensioner 112 in addition to the damper structure 210 shown in Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, can be used, or can be used as an alternative to the damper structure 210 in the bicycle chain tensioner 112.

[0072] More precisely, the damper structure 310 is positioned between the bicycle mounting clamp 132 and the chain tensioning device 134 and dampens a pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 134 relative to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 around the vertical pivot axis A1. This is shown in particular in Fig. 16, the damper structure 310 has a bushing 312 (i.e., a sliding part) and a clamping element 314 (i.e., a friction-generating element which is frictionally coupled to the bushing 312). The damper structure 310 also has a four-sided or square nut 316 and an adjusting screw 318 (i.e., a friction adjusting element).

[0073] The bushing 312 is essentially a tubular element made of resin, i.e., plastic. Of course, the bushing 312 can be made of another material, such as metal, as long as it is suitable for manufacturing radial bearings. The bushing 312 is rigidly coupled to a threadless section 322a of a bearing shaft 322 of the counter bearing 170, such that the threadless section 322a of the bearing shaft 322 is arranged through the bushing 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the threadless section 322a has a circular outer circumferential surface, and the bushing 312 has a corresponding circular inner circumferential surface. However, in a manner similar to the end section 222 of the pivot pin 137c, the threadless section 322a can have a pair of flat or...The bearing shaft 322 has flat surfaces on its outer circumferential surface, and the bushing 312 can have an inner circumferential surface corresponding to the outer circumferential surface of the unthreaded section 322a. The bearing shaft 322 also extends through the bearing opening of the fastening part 176 of the base element 140, and a threaded section 322b of the bearing shaft 322 is screwed into a threaded bore of the upper clamping body 178c of the movable element 142. As a result, the bearing shaft 322 is not movably coupled to the movable element 142, while the bearing shaft 322 pivotably carries or supports the base element 140 around the vertical pivot axis A1. Consequently, the bearing shaft 322 and the movable element 142 pivot integrally together with respect to the base element 140. In other words, the second coupling structure 138 also has the counter bearing 170, which pivots the chain tensioning device 134 (i.e.,the chain tensioning element) couples in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp 132.

[0074] The clamping element 314 has a ring part 314a and a pair of extension parts 314b, which extend radially outwards from both circumferential ends of the ring part 314a such that the extension parts 314b face each other circumferentially. The clamping element 314 is integrally designed as a one-piece unitary element and is made of metal sheet material. Of course, the clamping element 314 can also be made of a different elastic material, such as a plastic. The ring part 314a is slidably mounted with respect to an outer circumferential surface of the bushing 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the ring part 314a is frictionally coupled to the bushing 312 on the bearing shaft 322. The ring part 314a essentially forms a torsional spring, which biases the extension parts 314b circumferentially away from each other.In the illustrated embodiment, the ring part 314a has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the bushing 312 when the clamping element 314 is in a rest state. Conversely, the ring part 314a has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the bushing 312 when the clamping element 314 is in a preloaded or loaded state, in which the extension parts 314b are preloaded relative to each other. In other words, the ring part 314a presses on the outer circumferential surface of the bushing 312 to increase a frictional coupling force between the clamping element 314 and the bushing 312 on the bearing shaft 322 when the clamping element 314 is in the loaded state, which also increases the damping on the second coupling structure 138.

[0075] The bushing 312 and the clamping element 314 are essentially housed within a recess 324a of a housing section 324 of the mounting part 176 of the base element 140. The recess 324a has a shape that corresponds to an outer profile of the clamping element 314. Consequently, the clamping element 314 is not rotatably fitted within the recess 324a of the housing section 324. Likewise, the bushing 312, which is coupled to the bearing shaft 322, is pivotably arranged by the ring part 314a of the clamping element 314.

[0076] The nut 316 is also mounted in the recess 324a of the housing section 324. The nut 316 has a first surface facing one of the extension parts 314b of the clamping element 314 and a second surface opposite the first surface. The nut 316 has a threaded through-hole (not shown) in its center, which extends through the nut 316 between the first and second surfaces. The adjusting screw 318 is rotatably attached to a screw receptacle 328 of the housing section 324. The screw receptacle 328 has an inner bore (not shown) that is connected to the recess 324a of the housing section 324. The adjusting screw 318 is positioned through the inner bore of the screw receptacle 328 and is threaded to the nut 316.In particular, the adjusting screw 318 is screwed into the threaded through-hole of the nut 316 in such a way that a protrusion at a distal end of the adjusting screw 318 in relation to the first surface of the nut 316 can be adjusted.

[0077] When the adjusting screw 318 is screwed into the threaded through-hole of the nut 316 to increase the projection of the adjusting screw 318, the distal end of the adjusting screw 318 moves the first of the extension parts 314b towards the second of the extension parts 314b and thus clamps the bushing 312 via the ring part 314a, increasing the frictional coupling force of the ring part 314a with respect to the bushing 312. This increases the frictional resistance to the relative movement of the base element 140 and the movable element 142, since the clamping element 314 is non-rotatably arranged in the housing section 324 of the base element 140 and the bearing shaft 322, to which the bushing 312 is rigidly coupled, which is rigidly coupled to the movable element 142. As a result, this also increases the damping of the pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 134 in relation to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 via the second coupling structure 138.On the other hand, when the adjusting screw 318 is unscrewed from the threaded through-hole of the nut 316 to reduce its protrusion, the first extension part 314b follows the distal end of the adjusting screw 318 away from the second extension part 314b due to a spring force of the ring part 314a. This reduces the clamping force of the bushing 312 by the ring part 314a and the frictional coupling force of the ring part 314a with respect to the bushing 312. This reduces the frictional resistance to the relative movement of the base element 140 and the movable element 142. Consequently, the damping of the pivoting movement of the chain tensioning device 134 with respect to the bicycle mounting clamp 132 is also damped via the second coupling structure 138.In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the damper structure 310 has the adjusting screw 318, which is configured and provided to adjust the frictional coupling force of the clamping element 134 with respect to the bushing 312 of the bearing shaft 322.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the damper structure 310 is operatively arranged between the base element 140 and the bearing shaft 322. However, alternatively or additionally, the damper structure 310 can be arranged between the movable element 142 and the bearing shaft 322 if the base element 140 is rigidly coupled to the bearing shaft 322 and the movable element 142 is rotatably coupled to the bearing shaft 322.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the second coupling structure 138 comprises the damper structure 310, which has the clamping element 314 that is frictionally coupled to the sleeve 312 of the bearing shaft 322 in order to dampen the movement of the second coupling structure 138. However, the second coupling structure 138 can have other types of damper structures. For example, the second coupling structure 138 can have a fluid damper that uses a magnetic fluid as the damper structure, controlled by a magnetic field using an electromagnet.

[0080] Regarding the understanding of the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open terms that specify the presence of the mentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unmentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "exhibit," "with," "have," and their derivatives. As used above to describe the embodiment(s), the following directional terms "front," "rear," "above," "below," "vertical," "horizontal," "below," and "transverse," as well as any other directional or positional indications, refer to those of a bicycle equipped with the invention.Accordingly, the terms used to describe the invention are to be understood as referring to a bicycle in an ordinary riding position on a flat surface. Furthermore, the terms "part," "section," "section," "link," or "element," when used in the singular, may have the plural meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. Finally, the terms of extent, such as "essentially," "by," and "approximately," as used herein, signify a reasonable degree of deviation from the modified term such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0081] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without deviating from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location, or orientation of the various components can be changed as desired and / or required, provided that they do not thereby substantially depart from their intended function. Components shown to be directly connected to one another may have intermediate structures between them unless specifically stated otherwise. The function of one element can be achieved by two and vice versa unless specifically stated otherwise.The structures and functions of one embodiment can be transferred to another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages or features to be present simultaneously in every embodiment. Any feature that differs from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, shall also be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Therefore, the preceding descriptions of exemplary embodiments according to the present invention are given for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

[1] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) comprising: a bicycle mounting bracket (32) configured and intended to be mounted to a bicycle (10), and a chain tensioning element (34) linearly slidably coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (32) by means of a first coupling structure (36) to move in a lateral direction (X1) and by means of a second coupling structure (38) to move in a direction different from the lateral direction (X1) when the bicycle chain tensioner (12) is in use, wherein the chain tensioning element (34) is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (32) by means of the second coupling structure (38) around a vertical pivot axis (A1) which is substantially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal center plane (P) and substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction (X1). [2] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 1, wherein the first coupling structure (36) comprises a replaceable sliding axis (56) having an effective length (L1) defining an amount of sliding movement of the chain tensioning member (34) with respect to the bicycle mounting bracket (32). [3] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first coupling structure (36) has a first biasing element (58) which biases the chain tensioning element (34) towards a neutral position in the lateral direction (X1). [4] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first coupling structure (36) has a damper structure which is configured and provided to dampen a movement of the chain tensioning element (34) with respect to the bicycle mounting bracket (32), in particular the damper structure has a pivot axis with a sliding part and a friction element frictionally coupled to the sliding part of the pivot axis. [5] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 4, wherein the damper structure further comprises a friction adjusting element configured and provided to adjust a friction coupling force of the friction element with respect to the sliding part of the linkage axis. [6] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the chain tensioning element (34) is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (32) by means of the second coupling structure (38). [7] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 6, wherein the second coupling structure (38) comprises an adjustment element (72) adjustably arranged to adjust an amount of pivotal movement of the chain tensioning element (34) with respect to the bicycle mounting bracket (32). [8] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the second coupling structure (38) comprises a damper structure configured and provided to dampen a movement of the chain tensioning element (34) with respect to the bicycle mounting bracket (32). [9] The bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 1 to 8, further comprising a guide portion (48) movably coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (32) by means of the first coupling structure (36) and the second coupling structure (38); and a chain engagement element (46, 50) movably coupled to the guide portion (48). [10] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the lateral direction (X1) is substantially perpendicular to a bicycle longitudinal center plane. [11] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the chain tensioning element (34) comprises a first chain engagement element (46) and a second chain engagement element (50), wherein the first chain engagement element (46) and the second chain engagement element (50) are movable relative to one another. [12] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) comprising: a chain tensioning element (34); a bicycle mounting bracket (32) configured and intended to be mounted to a bicycle (10); a guide portion (48) linearly slidably coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (32) in a lateral direction (X1); a chain engagement element (50) movably coupled to the guide portion (48); and a second biasing element (52) coupled to the guide section (48), wherein the second biasing element (52) biases the chain engagement element (50) into a first position and wherein the second biasing element (52) overlaps with the guide portion (48) when viewed along at least one of the lateral direction (X1) and a vertical direction (X2), wherein the chain tensioning element (34) is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (32) by means of the second coupling structure (38) around a vertical pivot axis (A1) which is substantially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal center plane (P) and substantially perpendicular to the lateral direction (X1). [13] Bicycle chain tensioner (12) according to claim 12, wherein the lateral direction (X1) is substantially perpendicular to a bicycle longitudinal center plane, and the vertical direction (X2) is substantially parallel to the bicycle longitudinal center plane. [14] Bicycle chain tensioner (112) comprising: a bicycle mounting bracket (132) configured and intended to be mounted to a bicycle (10), and a chain tensioning element (134) movably coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (132) by means of a first coupling structure (136) for moving in a lateral direction (X1) and by means of a second coupling structure (138) for moving in a direction different from the lateral direction (X1) when the bicycle chain tensioner (112) is in use, wherein the chain tensioning element (134) is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (132) by means of the first coupling structure (136) for pivoting about a longitudinal pivot axis (A2) substantially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal center plane, and is pivotally coupled to the bicycle mounting bracket (132) by means of the second coupling structure (138) for pivoting about a vertical pivot axis (A1) substantially parallel to a bicycle longitudinal center plane and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal pivot axis (A2).

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