Saddle adjustment system

Abstract

A bicycle assembly (100) comprising a saddle adjustment device (200), wherein the saddle adjustment device comprises: a height-adjustable seat post (300), wherein the height-adjustable seat post comprises a first support (310) and a second support (320), wherein the second support is designed such that it can slide relative to the first support at least between a raised position and a lowered position, wherein the first support is designed such that it rests against a bicycle frame (110); wherein the height-adjustable seat post (300) also includes a locking mechanism designed to selectively lock the second support in a position relative to the first support in at least the raised position and the lowered position; an adjustment mechanism for the saddle angle (400) which is connected to the second support, wherein the adjustment mechanism for the saddle angle comprises a rotatably connected saddle support which is designed to be connected to a bicycle saddle (105); wherein the adjustment mechanism for the saddle angle (400) comprises a cam (900) movable relative to the second support between a fixed and a released position, wherein when the cam is in the fixed position it is positioned against a surface of the saddle support, and wherein when the cam (900) is in the released position the cam is positioned away from the surface of the saddle support, wherein the adjustment mechanism for the saddle angle (400) additionally comprises a movable pin (800) movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the movable pin engages in the cam such that the movement of the movable pin from the first position to the second position causes the cam to move from the locked to the unlocked position, and wherein the first support includes a stop surface (314) which is positioned to cause the movable pin to move from the first position to the second position when the second support is lowered into the lowered position.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present technology relates to bicycles and, in particular, to saddle adjustment systems. Description of the technology referred to

[0002] In certain situations, it may be desirable for a cyclist to selectively raise or lower a saddle while riding the bike. For example, it may be beneficial to lower the saddle when descending. It may also be beneficial to raise the saddle when climbing a hill. The height of a bicycle saddle can be important in determining a cyclist's power efficiency.

[0003] Adjustable saddles are generally known from the prior art. EP 2 514 659 A1 discloses an adjustment device for a bicycle saddle, which is designed such that adjusting the saddle angle is accompanied by a change in the longitudinal position and height of the saddle relative to the distance from the pedals. This describes a springy bicycle saddle, the position of which, however, cannot be changed while riding. DE 10 2010 044 356 A1 describes a saddle with adjustable height, but not simultaneously adjustable saddle angle.

[0004] The object of the present invention was to provide a saddle adjustment device that allows the rider of a bicycle to individually adjust and secure both the height and angle of the saddle while riding with simple manual movements. This object is achieved by a bicycle assembly having the features of claim 1 and by an adjustment mechanism having the features of claim 8. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the subclaims. Summary

[0005] The systems, methods, and devices described herein have innovative aspects, but no single one is essential or solely responsible for their desired properties. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of these advantageous features are now summarized.

[0006] One aspect of one embodiment is that it may be desirable for a cyclist to change the angle of a saddle while riding a bicycle. For example, it may be advantageous to angle the saddle forward when the saddle is in a raised position and to angle the saddle backward when the saddle is in a lowered position.

[0007] In some embodiments, a bicycle assembly includes a saddle adjustment system comprising: a height-adjustable seat post, the height-adjustable seat post comprising a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket configured to slide relative to the first bracket between at least one raised position and a lowered position, and the first bracket configured to bear against a bicycle frame; a seat angle adjustment mechanism connected to the second bracket, the seat angle adjustment mechanism comprising a body and a swivel; the swivel is configured to be connected to a bicycle seat, and the swivel is rotatably connected to the body;wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured such that the turntable rotates relative to the body when the first carrier moves between a raised and a lowered position relative to the second carrier;

[0008] According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddle adjustment system including a height-adjustable seat post, the height-adjustable seat post comprising a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket configured to slidably move relative to the first bracket between at least one raised position and a lowered position, the first bracket configured to engage a bicycle frame, and a saddle angle adjustment mechanism connected to the second bracket.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a body.

[0010] According to some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a swivel ring.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the swivel is configured to be connected to a bicycle saddle, the swivel being rotatably connected to the body, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism being configured to rotate the swivel with respect to the body when the first carrier moves between a raised position and a lowered position with respect to the second carrier.

[0012] According to another embodiment, this saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate between a fixed first rotational position and a fixed second rotational position.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism rotates the turntable relative to the body when the second carrier moves relative to the first carrier toward the lowered position.

[0014] According to a further embodiment, the bicycle assembly comprises a control element, the actuation of which allows the height of the height-adjustable seat post to be selectively adjusted while the bicycle is in motion.

[0015] According to a further embodiment, the saddle adjustment system includes a first surface and the swivel includes a second surface, wherein the force exerted by this first surface on the swivel causes the swivel to rotate relative to the body.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the bicycle assembly further comprises a bicycle frame.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, a bicycle assembly comprises a saddle adjustment system comprising a saddle angle adjustment mechanism configured to be carried by a bicycle seat post connected to the second support, wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a body and a pivot, wherein the pivot is configured to bear against the bicycle saddle and the pivot is rotatably connected to the body, a control unit, wherein actuation of the control unit enables the saddle adjustment system to allow the pivot to rotate with respect to the body of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism, wherein the control unit is configured to be manually actuated while riding.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the saddle adjustment system comprises a height-adjustable seat post having a first support and a second support that are movable relative to one another, wherein the movement of the first support and the second support relative to one another allows the swivel ring to rotate relative to the body of the seat angle adjustment mechanism. According to another embodiment, the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a stored energy device that rotates the swivel ring. According to another embodiment, the stored energy device comprises at least one of the following: a mechanical spring, an air spring, or a resilient element.

[0019] According to another embodiment, a method for adjusting a saddle angle of a bicycle saddle comprises fixing a first support of a height-adjustable seat post to the seat tube of a bicycle, the height-adjustable seat post having a second support slidably connected to the first support and configured to adjust the saddle height of the bicycle saddle, the second support having a saddle angle adjustment mechanism fixed to the second support, the bicycle saddle being rotatably connected to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism; selectively adjusting the saddle height of the bicycle saddle while the bicycle is being ridden, wherein adjusting the saddle height of the bicycle allows the second support to slide with respect to the first support and allows the bicycle saddle to be rotated.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the movement of the second support relative to the first support forms a force that rotates the saddle relative to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism.

[0021] According to another embodiment, a seat angle adjustment mechanism for use with a height-adjustable seat post comprises the height-adjustable seat post including a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket being configured to move slidably with respect to the first bracket between a raised position and a lowered position, the first bracket being adapted to bear against a bicycle frame, the seat angle adjustment mechanism comprising a body having a portion engaging the bracket, the portion engaging the bracket being adapted to be attached to the second bracket so that it can be fixed to the height-adjustable seat post; a swivel head adapted to be connected to a bicycle saddle, the swivel head being rotatably connected to the body;wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the rotating ring relative to the body between a first rotational position and a second rotational position; wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to retain the saddle receiving member in the first rotational position when the second carrier is in the raised position, and wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to retain the saddle receiving member in the second rotational position when the second carrier is in the lowered position.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the saddle adjustment mechanism is configured such that the movement of the second carrier with respect to the first carrier causes a force that holds the saddle receiving part in the second rotational position when the second carrier is in the lowered position.

[0023] According to another embodiment, a saddle adjustment system comprises a height-adjustable seat post, the height-adjustable seat post including a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket being configured to move slidably with respect to the first bracket between a raised position and a lowered position, the first bracket being adapted to engage a bicycle frame; a seat angle adjustment mechanism connected to the second bracket, the seat angle adjustment mechanism comprising a body and a swivel; the swivel being adapted to be connected to a bicycle seat, and the swivel being rotatably connected to the body;wherein the seat angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the swivel ring relative to the body between a first rotational position and a second rotational position; wherein the height-adjustable seat post is configured to selectably retain the first support in a raised position; wherein the height-adjustable seat post is configured to selectably retain the first support in a lowered position; wherein the seat adjustment system is configured to retain the swivel ring in the first rotational position when the second support is in the lowered position, and wherein the seat adjustment system is configured to retain the swivel ring in the second rotational position when the second support is in the lowered position.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, a method for adjusting the saddle angle of a bicycle saddle of a bicycle equipped with a height-adjustable seat post, wherein the height-adjustable seat post comprises a first support and a second support, wherein the second support is configured to move slidably with respect to the first support between a raised position and a lowered position, wherein the first support is adapted to bear against a bicycle frame, wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises providing a saddle angle adjustment mechanism in conjunction with the second support, wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a swivel ring, wherein the saddle swivel ring is connected to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism via a central axis,to the second support of the height-adjustable seat post which is substantially vertical, adjusting the first support from the raised position to the lowered position, wherein the seat angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the swivel ring with respect to the second support from a first rotational position to a second rotational position when the second support is moved from the raised position to the lowered position.

[0025] According to another embodiment, a method for adjusting the saddle angle of a bicycle saddle of a bicycle equipped with a height-adjustable seat post, wherein the height-adjustable seat post comprises a first support and a second support, wherein the second support is configured to move slidably with respect to the first support between a raised position and a lowered position, wherein the first support is adapted to bear against a bicycle frame, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises providing a saddle angle adjustment mechanism in conjunction with the second support, wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a swivel ring,the saddle receiving part is rotatably connected to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism via a central axis substantially perpendicular to the second support of the height-adjustable seat post, adjusting the first support from the lowered position to the raised position, wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the swivel ring with respect to the second support from a second rotational position to a first rotational position when the second support is moved from the lowered position to the raised position.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the slewing ring from the first rotational position to the second rotational position when the second carrier is moved from the raised position to the low lowered position.

[0027] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the slewing ring from the second rotational position to the first rotational position when the second carrier is moved from the lowered position to the raised position.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the lowered position of the carrier comprises the position within the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post at which the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is closest to the first carrier.

[0029] According to a further embodiment, the raised position of the second support comprises all height positions of the second support that are significantly above the lowered position within the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, the turntable comprises a saddle receiving part, wherein the saddle receiving part comprises a pair of receiving devices for rails which are dimensioned to receive saddle rails of a bicycle saddle.

[0031] According to a further embodiment, the rotating ring comprises a movable support, wherein the movable support is designed such that it rotates within the body of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism together with the saddle receiving part between a first rotational position and a second rotational position.

[0032] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises a movement channel and a movable pin, wherein the movable pin is arranged within the movement channel and is configured to slide within the movement channel.

[0033] According to a further embodiment, the movement channel is substantially parallel to the second carrier.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the movable pin is configured to slide between a first pin position and a second pin position.

[0035] According to a further embodiment, the movable pin is designed to contact a part of the height-adjustable seat post when the second carrier is in a lowered position.

[0036] According to a further embodiment, the movable pin is configured to slide from the first pin position to the second pin position when the height-adjustable seat post is set in a lowered position.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the movable pin is configured to release the saddle angle adjustment mechanism when the movable pin moves from the first pin position to the second pin position.

[0038] According to a further embodiment, the movable pin is configured to contact a part of the movable nozzle when the movable pin is in a second pin position.

[0039] According to a further embodiment, the movable pin is configured to rotate the slewing ring from a first rotational position to a second rotational position when the movable pin moves from the first pin position to the second pin position.

[0040] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a movable spring configured to bias the movable pin toward the first pin position.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a return spring configured to bias the movable stud toward the first rotational position.

[0042] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a cam.

[0043] According to a further embodiment, the pin comprises a bevel which cooperates with the cam.

[0044] According to a further embodiment, the cam is designed to hold the rotating ring in a first rotational position when the movable pin is in a first pin position.

[0045] According to a further embodiment, the cam is configured to release the rotating ring when the movable pin moves from the first pin position to the second pin position.

[0046] According to a further embodiment, the first rotational position is offset by approximately 15° from the second rotational position.

[0047] According to a further embodiment, the first rotational position of the saddle receiving part is designed such that it positions the saddle substantially in the same plane as the ground.

[0048] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism has a saddle angle adjustment range of more than 10°.

[0049] According to a further embodiment, the saddle angle adjustment arrangement is designed such that the saddle is rotated when the saddle height is adjusted.

[0050] According to a further embodiment, the body comprises a central bore with a central axis which is substantially perpendicular to the second support of the height-adjustable seat post.

[0051] According to some embodiments, a bicycle assembly comprises a seat adjustment system, the seat adjustment system comprising: a height-adjustable seat post, the height-adjustable seat post comprising a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket configured to slidably move relative to the first bracket between at least one raised position and a lowered position, and the first bracket configured to bear against the bicycle frame; a seat angle adjustment mechanism connected to the second bracket, the seat angle adjustment mechanism comprising a rotatably connected seat bracket configured to be connected to the bicycle seat;wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is configured to allow rotation of the saddle support relative to the second support as a result of movement of the first support relative to the second support;

[0052] In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism further includes an actuating surface positioned to contact a portion of the seat post when the first and second supports are in a predetermined position relative to one another, wherein movement of the actuating surface caused by the first support moving relative to the second support enables rotation of the seat support. In some embodiments, the predetermined position relative to one another is at or near the lowered position. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism is configured to allow rotation of the seat support relative to the second support in a first direction when the second support is in or near the lowered position and in a second direction opposite the first direction when the second support is not in or near the lowered position.In some embodiments, rotation of the seat support in the second direction is caused by a force generated by the seat angle adjustment mechanism, and rotation of the seat support in the first direction is caused by an external force applied to the seat support. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises first and second limiting surfaces, wherein the first limiting surface is configured to limit the amount of rotation of the seat support in the first direction, while the second limiting surface is configured to limit the amount of rotation of the seat support in the second direction. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a damping mechanism that dampens rotation of the seat support.In some embodiments, the seat post further includes a retention mechanism configured to retain the second bracket in position relative to the first bracket in the raised position, the lowered position, and a plurality of positions therebetween. In some embodiments, the retention mechanism includes an adjustment ring positioned at least partially within an interior cavity of the second bracket. In some embodiments, the seat bracket is configured to rotate between a predetermined first rotational position and a predetermined second rotational position. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism rotates the seat bracket relative to the second bracket as the second bracket moves toward the lowered position relative to the first bracket.In some embodiments, the bicycle assembly further includes a control element, the actuation of which allows the height-adjustable seat post to be selectively adjusted while the bicycle is in motion. In some embodiments, this seat adjustment system further includes a piston, wherein the force exerted by the piston on the seat post causes the seat post to rotate relative to the second post. In some embodiments, the bicycle assembly further includes a bicycle frame.

[0053] According to some embodiments, a seat angle adjustment mechanism for use with a height-adjustable seat post, the height-adjustable seat post comprising a first bracket and a second bracket, the second bracket being configured to move slidably with respect to the first bracket between a raised position and a lowered position, the first bracket being adapted to engage a bicycle frame, the seat angle adjustment mechanism comprising: an actuating mechanism comprising a bracket-engaging portion, the bracket-engaging portion being adapted to be fixed to the second bracket of the height-adjustable seat post, and a seat support member adapted to be attached to a bicycle saddle, the seat support member being rotatably connected to the actuating mechanism;wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to permit rotation of the saddle support member in only a first direction relative to the second support when the second support is in a raised position, and wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to permit rotation of the saddle support member in only a second direction opposite the first direction when the second support is in the lowered position;

[0054] In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a first limiting surface that defines a maximum rotation of the seat carrier in the first direction when the seat carrier is in a first rotational position at the maximum rotation in the first direction, wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to retain the seat carrier in the first rotational position when the seat carrier is in the first rotational position and the second carrier is in the raised position.In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a second limiting surface that defines a maximum rotation of the seat support in the second direction when the seat support is in a second rotational position in the maximum rotation in the second direction, wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to retain the seat support in the second rotational position when the seat support is in the second rotational position and the second support is in the lowered position.In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism further comprises: a first body having a first cavity and a second cavity; and a second body slidably connected to the first body and at least partially surrounding the first body, wherein a fluid in the first cavity is capable of flowing to the second cavity, allowing a piston connected to the caliper support to move in a direction that rotates the caliper support in the first direction when the second body is in a first position relative to the first body, and wherein the fluid in the second cavity is capable of flowing into the first cavity, allowing the piston to move in a direction that rotates the caliper support in the second direction when the second body is in a second position relative to the first body.In some embodiments, a first flow path for the liquid is open when the second body is in the first position relative to the first body, allowing the liquid to flow from the first cavity into the second cavity, and when the second body is in the second position relative to the first body, a second flow path for the liquid opens, allowing the liquid to flow from the second cavity into the first cavity. In some embodiments, the second body includes an actuating surface configured to contact a connecting surface to cause the second body to translate relative to the first body. In some embodiments, the connecting surface is part of the height-adjustable seat post.In some embodiments, the connecting surface is part of an adjustment collar used to adjust the height of the height-adjustable seat post. In some embodiments, the contact surface is part of a bicycle frame. In some embodiments, the actuating mechanism further comprises a damper to dampen the rotation of the seat post. In some embodiments, the actuating mechanism further comprises an energy storage device to rotate the seat post in the first direction. In some embodiments, the device comprises at least one of the following: a mechanical spring, an air spring, or a resilient element. Short description of the drawings

[0055] The aforementioned aspects, as well as other features, aspects, and advantages of the present technology, will now be described with respect to various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the illustrated embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Like reference numerals and designations in the various drawings indicate the same elements. Fig. 1A illustrates a side view of a bicycle including one embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device in a raised position and the saddle at a first saddle angle. Fig. 1B illustrates a side view of a bicycle including one embodiment of an adjustment mechanism for the seat angle in a lowered position and the seat in a second seat angle. Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a saddle connected to an embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 2. The Fig. 5A to 5H are cross-sectional views of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 2 in different stages of movement. The Fig. 6A to 6B show an additional embodiment of the saddle angle adjustment device. Fig. 7 shows an additional embodiment of the saddle angle adjustment device. The Fig. 8A to 8B show an additional embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device. The Fig. 9A to 9D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device. The Fig. 10A to 10D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device. The Fig. 11A to 11D illustrate an additional embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device. Fig. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an adjustable seat post assembly. Fig. Figure 13 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the adjustable seat post of the Fig. 12. Fig. 14 is a disassembled perspective view of the inner support of the adjustable seat post assembly of the Fig. 12 to 13. Fig. 15A illustrates a perspective view of an adjustment collar configured for use in an adjustable seat post assembly as disclosed herein according to one embodiment. The Fig. 15B and Fig. 15C illustrate various views of an expansion member including a plurality of balls according to one embodiment. Fig. 16A illustrates a perspective view of an adjustable assembly according to another embodiment. The Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C show different perspective views of the adjustable arrangement of the Fig. 16A, with part of the arrangement obscured or removed for clarity. Fig. Figure 16D shows a cross-sectional view of the adjustable arrangement of the Fig. 16A. Fig. 17A illustrates a perspective view of an adjustable assembly according to another embodiment. The Fig. 17B to 17D show various cross-sectional views of the adjustable arrangement of the Fig. 17A. Fig. 18A illustrates a side view of a bicycle including another embodiment of an adjustment device for the seat angle in a raised position and the seat at a first seat angle. Fig. Figure 18B shows a side view of the bicycle of Fig. 18A, wherein the saddle angle adjustment device is in a lowered position and the saddle is in a second saddle angle. Fig. Figure 19 is a perspective view of a saddle provided with the saddle angle adjustment device according to Fig. 18A is connected. Fig. Figure 20 is a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 18A. Fig. Figure 21 shows a side view of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 18A. Fig. Figure 22 shows a disassembled view of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 18 A. Fig. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 18A. The Fig. Figures 24 to 31 are cross-sectional views of the saddle angle adjustment device of the Fig. 18A in different stages of operation. Detailed description

[0056] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the attached drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It is to be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings, may be arranged, substituted, combined, and configured in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated and constitute a part of this disclosure.For example, a system or apparatus may be implemented, or a method may be performed, utilizing any number of the aspects presented herein. Additionally, such a system or apparatus may be implemented, or such a method may be performed, utilizing a different structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to or in place of one or more of the aspects presented herein. Alterations and further modifications of the inventive features presented herein, and additional applications of the principles of the invention as presented herein, that would occur to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art and having knowledge of this disclosure are to be considered within the scope of the invention.

[0057] Descriptions of unnecessary parts or elements may be omitted for clarity and brevity, and like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the drawings, the size and thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience.

[0058] Features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It will be understood that these drawings illustrate only particular embodiments consistent with the disclosure and therefore should not be considered to limit its scope; the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings. A device, system, or method according to some of the described embodiments may have various aspects, not each of which is necessarily solely responsible for the desired characteristics of the device, system, or method.After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled "Detailed Description," it will be understood how illustrated features serve to explain certain principles of the present disclosure.

[0059] This application is directed to embodiments of saddle angle adjustment devices, one embodiment being a saddle angle adjustment device 200 for a bicycle 100 as described in Fig. 1A. The seat angle adjustment device 200 may include a height-adjustable seat post 300 and a seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. U.S. Application Publication No. 2012 / 0228906, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and forms a part of the present application, and U.S. Application Publication No. 2009 / 0324327, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and forms a part of the application, each describe one or more embodiments of a height-adjustable seat post. The height-adjustable seat post 300 may desirably be configured to allow the rider to selectively adjust the height of the saddle 105.The height-adjustable seat post 300 can be selectively adjusted by the rider while riding the bicycle via a control element 301, which is preferably mounted on the handlebars. The seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 can preferably be configured to cooperate with the height-adjustable seat post 300 to adjust the seat angle α (see . Fig. 2) when the rider selectively raises or lowers the saddle 105. In some embodiments, including the embodiments described in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be mounted on the upper end of the height-adjustable seat post 300 and configured to automatically angle the saddle rearward when the seat is lowered over the height-adjustable seat post 300.

[0060] The saddle angle adjustment mechanism disclosed herein has a number of advantages. For example, there may be various situations in which a rider, while riding a bicycle, desires his or her saddle to be at a different height. For example, the rider may desire the saddle to be in a higher position when climbing a hill than when descending. Furthermore, in some situations, such as when descending a hill, a rider may desire the saddle to be down and out of the way, as the rider may not even want to use the saddle. However, when a saddle is merely lowered, such as by sliding a height-adjustable seatpost downward, several things can occur. For example, the rider's clothing, such as shorts, may catch on a rear edge of the saddle when the rider reconnects to the saddle.In addition, the rider's body can hit the back edge of the saddle, which can cause damage to potentially sensitive body parts.

[0061] The seat angle adjustment mechanism disclosed herein provides solutions to many of these problems. For example, in some embodiments, a seat angle adjustment mechanism may be configured to rotate a saddle toward a rearward or lowered position when the seat post is in a lowered position. For example, when a rider is riding downhill, the rider may operate a hand lever and use his or her body weight to push down the seat post and tilt the seat rearward. The rider can then lean rearward off the saddle (or otherwise separate from the saddle) to ride the bicycle downhill without using the saddle. The seat post and saddle will each remain in this lowered and rearward tilted position.When the rider wishes to reengage the saddle, for example when the downhill slope ends and the bike is back on a level surface, the rider can gently and comfortably reengage the saddle. When the saddle is tilted backward, there is less chance of the rear edge of the saddle catching on the rider's clothing. In addition, a tilted saddle provides a larger contact area for the rider when reengaging the saddle, reducing the chance of a rider injury by enabling the rider to gently reengage the saddle. This limits the risk of the rear edge of the saddle making harsh contact with a sensitive area of ​​the rider's body.

[0062] Some embodiments of an adjustable seat angle mechanism, as disclosed herein, also provide damping when adjusting the seat angle. This can be advantageous for various reasons, such as reducing the risk of injury and increasing comfort. For example, when the rider recontacts the saddle, the rider will likely desire the saddle to tilt back forward and / or upward, and the seatpost to move upward to a raised position, sometimes known as the "power" position. However, without damping, the saddle may snap forward or upward and strike the rider, potentially injuring the rider.By incorporating damping into the saddle angle adjustment mechanism, the saddle can return to a top, forward and / or power position in a comfortable and controlled manner.

[0063] In various embodiments, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art from the foregoing disclosure, a seat angle adjustment mechanism may be configured such that a seat rotates along an axis of rotation located at various locations. For example, an axis of rotation may be transverse to, or perpendicular to, the seat post and / or a central axis of the seat post. In another embodiment, the axis of rotation may be perpendicular to, and positioned behind, the seat post and / or the central axis of the seat post. In another embodiment, the axis of rotation may be perpendicular to, and positioned in front of, the seat post and / or the central axis of the seat post. In various embodiments, the axis of rotation may be in line with, in front of, or behind a center point of the saddle.In some embodiments, a rotation axis located forward of the seatpost and / or forward of a center point of the saddle may be advantageous. For example, such a configuration may provide a longer lever (i.e., a greater mechanical advantage) when a rider tilts the saddle rearward by shifting their weight toward a rear end of the saddle.

[0064] Fig. 1A illustrates a side view of the bicycle 100 including an embodiment of an adjustment device for the seat angle 200 in a raised position and the seat 105 in a first seat angle. Fig. 1B illustrates a side view of a bicycle 100 including one embodiment of an adjustment device for the seat angle 200 in a lowered position and the saddle 105 at a second seat angle. The height-adjustable seat post 300 may include a first support, such as a lower support 310, and a second support, such as an upper support 320. The lower support 310 may be adapted to bear against a bicycle frame 110 of a bicycle 100. In some embodiments, the lower support 310 may slide within a seat tube 115 of a bicycle frame 110 and be clamped in place such that the lower support 310 does not move relative to the seat tube 115 of the bicycle frame 110 while the bicycle 100 is ridden. The upper support 320 may be configured to move relative to the lower support 310 between an elevated position as shown in Fig. 1A, and a lowered position as shown in Fig. 1B. In some embodiments, the upper support 320 may be configured to slide within at least a portion of the lower support 310.

[0065] The height-adjustable seat post 300 may include an adjustable range. The "lowered position" of the upper support 320 includes the position within the adjustable height range of the adjustable seat post 300 in which the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 is closest to the lower support 310. The "raised position" of the upper support 320 includes all height positions of the upper support 320 above the lowered position within the adjustable height range of the adjustable seat post 300.

[0066] In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 1 / 4". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 1 / 2". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 1". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 2". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 3". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 4". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 5".In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 6". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 7". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 8". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 9". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 10". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 11". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height-adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 12".In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height of the adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 1" and less than 12". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height of the adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 2" and less than 10". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height of the adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 3" and less than 8". In some embodiments, the adjustable range of the height of the adjustable seat post 300 may be greater than 4" and less than 6".

[0067] In some embodiments, the height-adjustable seatpost 300 may include a spring configured to urge the upper bracket 320 into an elevated position relative to the first bracket 310. In some embodiments, the spring may be an air spring. In some embodiments, the height-adjustable seatpost 300 may include a locking mechanism configured to limit movement between the lower bracket 310 and the upper bracket 320 when the locking mechanism is in a locked position and to allow relative movement between the lower bracket 310 and the upper bracket 320 when the locking mechanism is in a released position. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may be located at the lower end of the height-adjustable seatpost 300.In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may be present at the lower end of the upper bracket 320. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may include a biasing member configured to adjust the locking mechanism relative to a locked position. When the locking mechanism is released, the spring may preferentially urge the upper bracket 320 toward a raised position. The rider may overcome the force provided by the spring by applying a downward force to the saddle 105 using their body weight, pushing the lower bracket 310 toward the lowered position when the rider selectively releases the locking mechanism.

[0068] Once the driver releases the control element 301, the locking mechanism can be configured to move to a closed position and restrict movement between the lower beam 310 and the upper beam 320.

[0069] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may include a control element 301 so that the rider can selectively release the locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is configured so that the rider can release the locking mechanism while the rider is riding the bicycle 100. The control element 301 may include a lever or a knob that the rider can push or turn to release the locking mechanism. The control element 301 may be located in a location convenient for the rider, which may include, for example, the handlebars, as shown in Fig. 1A. In some embodiments, the control element 301 may be connected to the locking mechanism via a cable 321. The cable 321 may preferably extend from the control element 321 through the bicycle frame 110 and contact the locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism is located at the lower end of the height-adjustable seat post 300, within the bicycle frame 110. In other embodiments, the cable 321 may extend outside the frame.

[0070] In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment device 200 may be configured to adjust the saddle angle α (see Fig. 2) of the saddle 105. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be fixed to the upper bracket 320 such that the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 moves up and down with the upper bracket 320. The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be configured to influence the saddle angle of the saddle 105 along a saddle rotation axis. The saddle rotation axis may be substantially parallel to an axis defined by the rear dropout of the bicycle frame, which coincides with the rear wheel axle 120 of the rear wheel assembly 125 of the bicycle 100, as shown in Fig. 1A. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be configured to allow the saddle 105 to move between a first saddle angle, as shown in Fig. 1A, and a second saddle angle, as shown in Fig. 1B. In some embodiments, the saddle 105 may be arranged substantially parallel to the plane of the ground when the saddle 105 is positioned at a first saddle angle. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may rotate the saddle 105 rearward when viewed from the perspective of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, counterclockwise from the first saddle angle to the second saddle angle. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may rotate the saddle 105 forward when viewed from the perspective of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B, clockwise from the second saddle angle to the first saddle angle.

[0071] In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 400 is configured to rotate the saddle 105 rearward when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is adjusted from a raised position to a lowered position. The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be configured to rotate the saddle 105 forward when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is adjusted from a lowered position to a raised position. The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be configured to lock the saddle 105 at a first saddle angle when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is in a raised position.In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be configured to lock the seat 105 at a second seat angle when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is in a lowered position. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be configured to release the seat when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is adjusted from a lowered position to a raised position, allowing the seat to rotate from a second seat angle to a first seat angle.

[0072] Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a saddle 105 connected to one embodiment of a saddle angle adjuster 200. In some embodiments, the lower bracket 310 may include a tubular portion 311 and a sealing portion 312. In some embodiments, the height-adjustable seat post 300 may include a stop surface 314. In some embodiments, the lower bracket 310 may include a stop surface 314. In some embodiments, the sealing portion 312 of the lower bracket 310 may include a stop surface 314. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjuster 200 may include an optional actuator 313 configured to be removably attached to the lower bracket 310. In some embodiments, the actuator 313 may be configured to be attached to the sealing portion 320 of the lower bracket.In some embodiments, the actuating unit 313 may include a stop surface 314. The stop surface 314 may be configured to contact a portion of the main unit of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400, which may, for example, include a movable pin 800, when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is depressed to a lowered position.

[0073] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. As shown, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may be attached to an upper portion of the upper bracket 320 of the height-adjustable seat post 300. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a saddle receiving member 510 configured to connect to the saddle 105. Some bicycle saddles 100 include saddle rails 107 as part of a mounting system between the saddle 105 and a main body of a conventional seat post. In some embodiments, the saddle receiving member 510 may include at least one rail-receiving feature, such as a rail receiving piece 515, as shown in Fig. 3, which is configured to receive a saddle rail 107 of the saddle 105. In some embodiments, the rail receiving piece 510 may include a rail securing unit, such as a rail socket, adapted to be mounted adjacent to the rail 107 and opposite the saddle receiving portion 510 to secure the rail 107 of the saddle 105 to the saddle receiving portion 510.

[0074] The rail receiving piece 515 of the saddle receiving part 510, as in Fig. 3, defines a partially cylindrical surface which defines a rail receiving axis which is aligned with the central axis of the portion of the rail 107 incorporated in the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 as shown in Fig. 2, engages, is colinear. The saddle angle "α" is defined by the angle between the rail receiving axis and the central axis of the upper support 320 of the height-adjustable seat post.

[0075] In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may have a saddle angle adjustment range α between the first saddle angle and the second saddle angle.

[0076] In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 5°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 10°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 15°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 20°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 30°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 35°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 40°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be greater than 45°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be between 5° and 45°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be between 5° and 35°.In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be between 10° and 25°. In some embodiments, the adjustment range for the saddle angle α may be between 15° and 20°.

[0077] In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least ½'' can be a saddle angle α adjustment of at least 5°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least ½'' can be a saddle angle α adjustment of at least 10°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least ½'' can be a saddle angle α adjustment of at least 15°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least ½'' can be a saddle angle α adjustment of at least 20°.

[0078] In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 1" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 5°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 1" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 10°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 1" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 1" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 20°.

[0079] In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 2" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 5°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 2" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 10°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 2" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 2" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 20°.

[0080] In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 3" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 5°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 3" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 10°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 3" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 15°. In some embodiments, an adjustment of the height-adjustable seat post 300 of at least 3" may result in an adjustment of the saddle angle α of at least 20°.

[0081] Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustment device 400 of the Fig. 2. In some embodiments, the rail receiving piece 515 of the saddle receiving portion 510 may include a curved surface adapted to receive the rail 107 of the saddle. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a rail-securing fastener configured to secure the rail securing units 600 to the saddle adjuster. In some embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 may include a recess configured to allow a rail-securing fastener 610 to pass through the saddle receiving portion 510 and engage the opposing securing unit, thereby securing each rail securing unit 600 to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 and securing the saddle 105 to the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400.The rail-securing fastener 610 may include a head portion and a shaft portion. The head portion may include a surface that engages a portion of the rail-securing unit 600 and urges the rail-securing unit 600 against the rotation assembly 500 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. The shaft portion may include external threads configured to engage a rail-securing unit 600 or a threaded nut including internal threads. In some embodiments, the rail-securing unit 600 may include a threaded bore configured to engage one or more rail-securing fasteners 610.In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a threaded nut including a surface adapted to engage a portion of a rail locking assembly 600 and force the rail locking assembly 600 against the rotating ring 500 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 may include a threaded bore configured to engage one or more rail locking fasteners 610. In some embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 may include other means for connecting to the saddle 105, which may include, for example, a snap fit, a turnbuckle assembly, a quick-release fastener, a retaining cam assembly, etc.

[0082] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 3, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a rotating ring 500. The rotating ring 500 may include a seat receiving part 510. In some embodiments, the rotating ring 500 may include an outer member 520. In some embodiments, the outer member 520 may be in a cylindrical shape having an inner surface and an outer surface. In some embodiments, the outer member 520 is attached to the seat receiving part 510 such that the seat receiving part 510 and the outer member 520 rotate together. In some embodiments, the seat receiving part 510 may be molded in one integral piece. In some embodiments, the seat receiving part 510 may include a plurality of parts.In some embodiments, the saddle receiving part 510 may include a left part and a right part, with the left part configured to engage the left saddle rail of the saddle 105 and the right part configured to engage the right saddle rail 107 of the saddle 105. In some embodiments, the left part and the right part may be fixed to each other. In some embodiments, both the left part and the right part may be fixed to the outer member 520. In some embodiments, the left part and the right part may be molded as a single piece. In other embodiments, the saddle receiving part 510 may be fixed to the outer member 520.In some embodiments, the left and right portions of the saddle receiving portion may include a tapered portion configured to contact tapered portions on the inner surface of the outer member 520. In some embodiments, the left and right portions of the saddle receiving portion may be freely rotatable relative to the rest of the turntable until the rail securing fastener 610 is firmly tightened, which pulls the left portion toward the right portion and causes the tapered portions of the left and right portions to contact the tapered portions of the inner surface of the outer member 520. Friction between the tapered portions may prevent the saddle receiving portion 510 from rotating relative to the rest of the turntable.In some embodiments, the tapered portions may include protrusions or recesses to prevent rotation between the saddle receiving portion 510 and the outer member 520, which may include, for example, ridges, ribs, cuts, grooves, etc. In other embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 may be secured to the outer member 520 via a tension fit. In other embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 may be secured to the outer member 520 via an interference fit. In other embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 may be secured to the outer member 520 using more permanent means, which may include, for example, bonding, adhesives, soldering, etc. In other embodiments, the saddle receiving portion 510 and the outer member 520 are molded in one piece.

[0083] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 3, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a body 700. The body 700 may include a central bore 710 formed therethrough. The central bore 710 has a "central axis" that is substantially perpendicular to the upper bracket 320 of the height-adjustable seat post 300. The swivel 500 may share the seat rotation axis with the seat 105. The seat rotation axis may be colinear with the central axis of the central bore 710. The central bore 710 may be configured to rotatably receive the swivel 500. The swivel 500 may be configured to rotate within the central bore 710 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400.In some embodiments, at least a portion of the slewing ring 500 may comprise a different material than the body 700 to minimize friction and wear between the slewing ring 500 and the body 700. In some embodiments, at least one guide bearing or bushing may be used between the slewing ring 500 and the inner surface of the central bore 710 of the body 700. In some embodiments, the slewing ring 500 may be axially secured within the central bore 710 via one or more axial securing elements, including, for example, retaining rings, fasteners, internally threaded nuts, externally threaded nuts, etc. In some embodiments, the slewing ring 500 may include one or more thrust washers.

[0084] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 3, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 is configured to rotate the saddle receiving part 510 relative to the body 700. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 is configured to rotate the rotating ring 500 between a first rotational position and a second rotational position. In some embodiments, the first rotational position of the rotating ring 500 corresponds to the first saddle angle of the saddle 105, as discussed herein, and as in Fig. 1A. In some embodiments, the second rotational position of the slewing ring 500 corresponds to the second saddle angle of the saddle 105, as discussed herein, and as shown in Fig. 1B.

[0085] In other embodiments not shown in the figures, the saddle receiving part 510 may include a separate angle adjustment device that allows the saddle receiving part 510, and thus the saddle angle α, to be fixed at different angles relative to the rest of the slewing ring 500, so that the saddle receiving part 510 and the saddle 105 still rotate with the slewing ring 500, but allows the adjustment of the first saddle angle, which corresponds to the first rotational position of the slewing ring 500, and the second saddle angle, which corresponds to the second rotational position of the slewing ring 500. In other embodiments, the separate angle adjustment device may adjust the angle between the movable support 530 and the rest of the slewing ring 500.

[0086] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 3, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a movable pin 800. The movable pin 800 may move relative to the body 700 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 may translate linearly relative to the body 700 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, the movable pin 800 may rotate about a movable pin axis (not shown). In some embodiments, the stop surface 314 may be configured to contact the movable pin 800 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is lowered to a lowered position. In some embodiments, the movable pin may include a movable knob 830 configured to contact the stop surface 314.In some embodiments, the stop surface 314 may force the movable pin 800 to move upward relative to the body 700 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400. The movable pin 800 moving upward may preferably release the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 from the first rotational position. The movable pin 800 moving upward may cause the rotating ring to rotate from a first rotational position to a rotational position. In some embodiments, the rotating ring 500 may include a movable stud 530. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may be fixed to the saddle receiving part 510. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may be fixed to the outer member 520. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may rotate together with the outer member 520 and the saddle receiving part 510.In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 may contact the movable stud 530 as it moves upward. In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 may force the movable stud 530 and the rest of the rotating ring 500, including the saddle receiving portion 510, to rotate relative to the body 700 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 as the movable pin 800 moves from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the movable pin 800 may be at least partially surrounded by a movable seal 810. The movable seal 810 may be configured to restrict liquids, solids, or other materials from entering the interior of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400.In some embodiments, the movable seal may be an accordion seal such that the height of the movable seal 810 may change depending on the movement of the movable pin 800 relative to the body 700 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400.

[0087] Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 200. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a bracket engaging portion 720. The bracket engaging portion 720 may be adapted to secure the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 to the upper bracket 320 of the height-adjustable seat post 300. In some embodiments, the bracket engaging portion 720 may be configured to contact the inner surface of the upper bracket 320. In some embodiments, the bracket engaging portion 720 may include a shoulder adapted to abut the upper portion of the lower bracket 320. Methods for securing the bracket engaging portion 720 to the upper bracket 320 may include, for example, threading, bonding, adhesives, etc.

[0088] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the support engaging portion 720 may be integrally molded with the body 700 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, the support engaging portion 720 may be fixed to the body 700 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. The support engaging portion 720 may be configured to form an airtight seal with the second member. The support member and the height-adjustable seat post 300 may form a pressure chamber 330. The pressure chamber 330 may form part of the air spring as discussed herein.In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a valve 750 in fluid contact with the pressure chamber 330, which is configured to adjust the pressure within the pressure chamber 330 and thus the force at which the height adjustable seat post 300 urges the upper bracket 320 upward when the locking mechanism of the height adjustable seat post 300 is in a released position.

[0089] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, a sealing part may be arranged at or near the upper end of the lower support 310. In some embodiments, the tube part 311 (see Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) of the lower support 310 within the tube recess 315 of the sealing member 312. In some embodiments, the sealing member 312 may advantageously be configured to restrict liquids, solids, or any other materials from entering the interior of the lower support 310. In some embodiments, the sealing member 312 may prevent air or other liquids from exiting interior regions of the height-adjustable seatpost 300, which may include, for example, the pressure chamber 330. In some embodiments, the sealing member 312 of the lower support 310 may include a circumferential seal 315 generally adjacent to and in contact with an outer surface of the upper support 320. The seal 315 may comprise one or more elastomeric, thermoplastic, or otherwise flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid materials.

[0090] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a travel channel 730 configured to slidably receive the movable pin 800. In some embodiments, the travel channel 730 may be formed in the form of a sleeve 735 that is attached to the body 700 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. In other embodiments, the travel channel 730 may be formed in the body 700 of the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400. The travel channel 730 may be substantially parallel to the upper bracket 320 of the height-adjustable seat post 300. The travel channel 730 and the movable pin 800 may be adapted to move the movable pin 800 between a first pin position, as shown in Fig. 4, and a second pin position as shown in Fig. 5D. The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a movable spring 820 configured to urge the movable pin 800 toward the first pin position.

[0091] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the movable pin 800 is configured to contact a portion of the height-adjustable seat post 300, which may include, for example, the stop surface 314, when the upper bracket 320 is in a lowered position. In some embodiments, the relative movement between the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 and the lower bracket 310 may cause the stop surface 314 to urge the movable pin 800 from a first position to a second position when the upper bracket 320 is lowered from a raised position to a lowered position. In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 is configured to cooperate with the movable stud 530 as the movable pin 800 slides from a first position to a second position.In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 is configured to rotate the slewing ring 500 from a first rotational position to a second rotational position when the movable pin 800 slides from a first position to a second position. The movable seal 810 of the . Fig. 3 is for clarity in Fig. 4 is omitted. In some embodiments, the movable seal 810 may prevent external contaminants from interfering with the movement of the movable pin 800 within the movement channel 730.

[0092] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the movable pin 800 is configured to cooperate with the cam 900. In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 is configured to release the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 when it slides from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 may include a ramp 840 configured to cooperate with the cam 900. In some embodiments, the ramp may be a trough formed in the movable pin 800. In other embodiments, the ramp 840 could be a protrusion from the movable pin 800.

[0093] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the movable stud 530 may be fixed to the outer member 520 of the slewing ring 500. In some embodiments, one or more fasteners 540 may pass through the outer member 520 and engage the movable stud 530 such that the movable stud 530 is fixed to the outer member 520. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the outer member 520 may include a recess configured to receive the movable stud 530. In some embodiments, the slewing ring 500 may include a support plate 550 configured to be adjacent to the inner surface of the outer member 520 opposite the movable stud 530. In some embodiments, one or more fasteners 540 may pass through the support plate 550 and engage the movable stud 530.In some embodiments, the support plate 550 may include a flat surface in contact with the fasteners. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may be configured to cooperate with a cam 900 to retain the slewing ring 500 in a first rotational position. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may be configured to cooperate with the movable pin 800 to rotate the slewing ring 500 from a first rotational position to a second rotational position. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may be configured to cooperate with a return device 1000 to rotate the slewing ring 500 from a second rotational position to a first rotational position. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may have a first arm 531 and a second arm 532.The first arm 531 and the second arm 532 may each protrude outwardly from the seat rotation axis. The first arm 531 may be configured to cooperate with a cam 900. The first arm 531 may be configured to retain the slewing ring 500 in a first rotational position. The second arm 532 may be configured to cooperate with the movable pin 800. The second arm 532 may be configured to cooperate with a return member 1010. In some embodiments, the second arm 532 may include a recess configured to receive a portion of the return member 110. In other embodiments, the movable stud 530 may include a single arm. In other embodiments, the movable stud 530 may include a plurality of arms.In other embodiments, the reset device 1000, the movable pin 800, and the cam 900 may each be configured to influence the movable nozzle 530 by cooperating with the first arm 531, the second arm 532, or another part of the movable nozzle 530.

[0094] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a return device 1000. In some embodiments, the return device 1000 may be configured to rotate the slewing ring 500 from the second rotational position to the first rotational position. The return device 1000 may be configured to cooperate with the movable stud 530 to rotate the slewing ring 500 from the second rotational position to the first rotational position. The return device may include a return member 1010 and a return spring 1020. In some embodiments, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a return channel 740 configured to receive the return member 1010 of the return device 1000. In some embodiments, the reset channel 740 may be formed in the body 700 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400.The return element 1010 may be configured to slide within the return channel 740. The return spring 1020 may press the return element 1010 against a portion of the movable stud 530, thereby urging the slewing ring toward the first rotational position. In some embodiments, the return element 1010 may cooperate with the second arm 532 of the movable stud 530 to rotate the slewing ring 500. In some embodiments, the return element 1010 may include a return stop buffer 1030. In some embodiments, the return stop buffer 1030 may be configured to limit rotation of the slewing ring 500 past the second rotational position. In some embodiments, the return stop buffer 1030 may be at least partially deformable. The return stop buffer 1030 can be made of rubber.The return stop buffer 1030 may have a significantly higher spring rate than the return spring 1020. In some embodiments, the return element 1010 may be configured to contact and deform the return stop buffer 1030 when the slewing ring 500 is rotated from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments, the return element 1010 may be configured to contact the movable stud 530 at one end of the return element 1010 and the stop buffer at the other end of the return element 1010 when the slewing ring 500 has reached the second rotational position. In some embodiments, the return device 1000 may be adjustable by adjusting the preload of the return spring 1020.In some embodiments, the preload setting on the return spring 1020 can be adjusted via a threaded adjustment element. In other embodiments, the return device 1000 can rotate. In some embodiments, the return device 1000 can include a torsion spring.

[0095] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a cam 900. The cam 900 may include a rotation axis 930, such as a shaft, about which the cam 900 may rotate. The cam 900 may move between a closed position, as shown in Fig. 4, and a released position as shown in Fig. 5D. In some embodiments, the cam 900 is configured to lock the rotating ring 500 in a first rotational position. In other embodiments, the cam 900 may be configured to lock the rotating ring 500 in a second rotational position. The cam 900 may include a first portion 910 and a second portion 920. In some embodiments, the first portion 910 may include a first roller. In some embodiments, the second portion 920 may include a second roller. The cam 900 may include a cam spring 940 configured to urge the cam 900 toward the closed position.

[0096] In some embodiments, as in Fig. 4, the cam spring 940 may be adapted to rotate the cam 900 toward a closed position (in a clockwise direction when viewed from the perspective of the Fig. 4). The cam spring 940 may be a torsion spring. In some embodiments, the cam 900 may be configured to cooperate with the movable stud 530 to limit the rotation of the swivel 500. In some embodiments, the first arm 531 of the cam 900 may be configured to cooperate with the movable stud 530. In some embodiments, the cam 900 may be configured to cooperate with the first arm 531 of the movable stud 530 to lock the swivel 500 in a first rotational position. In some embodiments, the cam 900 may lock the swivel in a first rotational position when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is in a raised position. In some embodiments, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 may include a locking stop bumper 760.In some embodiments, the locking stop buffer 760 may be configured to limit the rotation of the slewing ring 500 beyond the first rotational position. In some embodiments, the locking stop buffer 760 may be at least partially deformable. The locking stop buffer 760 may be made of rubber.

[0097] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the movable stud 530 may be configured to contact the locking stop bumper 760 when the slewing ring 500 rotates from a second rotational position to a first rotational position. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 and the cam 900 may be configured such that the cam 900 is "spanned" when it locks the slewing ring 500 in the first rotational position. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530 may compress the locking stop bumper 760 when the cam 900 rotates from a released position to a locked position. The movable stud 530 may rotate beyond the first rotational position when it compresses the locking stop bumper 760 when the cam 900 contacts the first arm 531 of the movable stud 530.When the cam 900 rotates to a locked position, the "centered" configuration can be defined as the arrangement where the movable stud 530 is rotated the farthest and the stop buffer is compressed the most. The cam 900 can then continue to rotate to the locked position, with the stop buffer expanding and rotating the movable stud 530 back to the first rotational position. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can be held in the locked position corresponding to the "overstretched" position of the cam 900, with the locking stop buffer 760 acting on the first arm 531 to contact the first portion 910 of the cam 900 and hold the cam 900 in position. In other embodiments, the cam 900 can reach the locked position without the slewing ring 500 rotating beyond the first rotational position.

[0098] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. 4, the return element 1010 may include a return stop buffer 1030. In some embodiments, the return stop buffer 1030 may be configured to limit rotation of the slewing ring 500 beyond the second rotational position. In some embodiments, the return stop buffer 1030 may be at least partially deformable. The return stop buffer 1030 may be made of rubber. The return stop buffer 1030 may have a significantly higher spring rate than the return spring 1020. In some embodiments, the return element 1010 may be configured to contact and deform the return stop buffer 1030 when the slewing ring 500 is rotated from a first position to a second position.In some embodiments, the deformed locking stop bumper 760 can urge the swivel 500 toward a second rotational position and retain the cam 900 in a locked position according to the arrangement of the movable stud 530 and the cam 900. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can release the swivel 500 and allow the swivel 500 to rotate from a first rotational position to a second rotational position. In some embodiments, the cam 900 can release the swivel 500 when the height-adjustable seat post 300 is lowered from a raised position to a lowered position.

[0099] In some embodiments, including the embodiment described in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, movement of the movable pin 800 may cause the cam 900 to rotate. In some embodiments, the movable pin 800 moving from a first position to a second position may cause the cam 900 to rotate from a locked position to a released position. In some embodiments, the bevel 840 of the movable pin 800 may cooperate with the second portion 920 of the cam 900 to rotate the cam 900 from a locked position to a released position as the movable pin 900 moves from a first position to a second position.

[0100] The Fig. 5A to 5H are cross-sectional views of the saddle angle adjustment device 200 of the Fig. 2 in different stages of movement. The stages of movement that are shown in the Fig. 5A to 5H and the description for Figures 5A to 5H are intended to illustrate one embodiment of the possible stages of movement of the saddle angle adjustment device 200 and are to be understood as not limiting. The description of each figure below describes the current orientation and movement of the various parts of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400 with respect to the preceding figures. Fig. 5A to 5D illustrate one embodiment of the sequential steps of lowering the height-adjustable seat post 300 from a raised position to a lowered position and the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 rotating the swivel 500 from a first rotational position to a second rotational position. Fig. 5A, the height-adjustable seat post 300 is in a raised position. The swivel 500 is locked in the first rotational position. The movable pin 800 is in the first position. The second part 920 of the cam 900 is located within the bevel 840 of the movable pin 800. The cam 900 is in a locked position. The locking stop buffer 760 is compressed and the cam 900 is rotated "over-tensioned." The first part 910 of the cam 900 is locked in position against the first arm 531 of the movable support 530.

[0101] In Fig. 5B, the height-adjustable seat post 300 has moved from a raised position toward the lowered position. The rider has released the locking mechanism (not shown) of the height-adjustable seat post 300, and the upper bracket 320 has moved downward relative to the lower bracket 310. The movable pin 800 has contacted the stop surface 314, and the movable pin 800 has been pushed upward from the first position toward the second position. The bevel 840 of the movable pin 800 has interacted with the second portion 920 of the cam 900 and rotated the cam 900 from a locked position to a released position. The movable pin 800 has contacted the second arm 530 of the movable stem 530, but has not rotated the swivel 500 from the first rotational position.

[0102] In Fig. 5C, the height-adjustable seat post 300 has been moved from a raised position toward the lowered position. The height-adjustable seat post 300 is almost in the lowered position. The movable pin 800 has been pushed further upward and is almost in the second position. The movable pin 800 has forced the movable stud 530 and the slewing ring 500 to rotate from the first rotational position toward the second rotational position. The movable stud 530 has forced the return element 1010 to slide through the return channel 740 and compress the return spring 1020. The cam 900 has rotated completely out of the path of the first arm 531 of the movable stud 530.

[0103] In Fig. 5D shows the height-adjustable seat post 300 in a lowered position. The movable pin 800 has been pushed upwardly by the stop surface 314 to the second position. The movable pin 800 has forced the movable stud 530 and the swivel 500 to rotate to the second rotational position. The movable stud 530 has forced the return member 1010 into the return stop buffer 1030. The return spring 1020 has been compressed by the return member 1010. The locking mechanism of the height-adjustable seat post 300 is now in the locked position (not shown) and restricts movement between the lower bracket 310 and the upper bracket 320, locking the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 in place and the swivel 500 in the second rotational position.

[0104] The Fig. 5D to 5H illustrate an embodiment of the sequential steps of raising the height-adjustable seat post 300 from the lowered position to a raised position and the seat angle adjustment mechanism 400 rotating the swivel 500 from a second rotational position to a first rotational position and locking the swivel 500 in the first rotational position. In Fig. 5E, the height-adjustable seatpost 300 is in a raised position. The rider has released the locking mechanism of the height-adjustable seatpost 300, and the upper bracket 320 has moved upward and into a raised position relative to the lower bracket 310. The stop surface 314 no longer pushes the movable pin 800 upward to the second position, and the movable spring 820 has begun to move the movable pin 800 from the second position to the first position. The second portion 920 of the cam 900 has begun to slide into the slope 840 of the movable pin 800, at least in part due to the pressure of the cam spring 940. The return element 1010 is adjacent to the return stop buffer 1030, and the return spring 1020 is compressed. The pivot ring 500 is in the second rotational position.

[0105] In Fig. In Figure 5F, the height-adjustable seat post 300 is in a raised position. The return spring 1020 is extended, and the return element 1010 has moved away from the return stop buffer 1030. The slewing ring 500 has rotated from the second rotational position toward the first rotational position. The slewing ring 500 is almost in the first rotational position. The movable pin 800 has moved further toward the first position. The bevel 840 of the movable pin 800 has moved downward with the movable pin 800, allowing the cam 900 to rotate toward the locked position, and the first part 910 of the cam 900 has contacted the first arm 531 of the movable stud 530.

[0106] In Fig. 5G shows the height-adjustable seat post 300 in a raised position. The swivel 500 has rotated beyond the first rotational position, the locking stop buffer 760 is compressed, and the cam 900 is now in the "central" configuration. The movable pin 800 has moved further toward the first position and is almost in the first position.

[0107] In Fig. 5H shows the height-adjustable seat post 300 in a raised position. The swivel 500 is now in the first rotational position. The cam 900 has "over-rotated" and is now in the locked position. The locking stop buffer 760 is compressed, pushing the movable stud 530 toward the second rotational position and holding the cam 900 in the locked position, according to the arrangement of the movable stud 530 and the cam 900. The movable pin 800 is now in the first position.

[0108] In some embodiments, the rider's weight on the seat 105 can help rotate the swivel 500 toward the first rotational position. In some embodiments, the rider's weight on the seat 105 can help compress the locking stop bumper 760 and allow the cam 900 to rotate to the locked position. In other embodiments, the rider's weight on the seat 105 can help rotate the swivel 500 toward the second rotational position. In some embodiments, the rider's weight on the seat 105 can help compress the return spring 1020.

[0109] Fig. 6A-B illustrates an additional embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400'. In some embodiments, the movable stud 530' may include a locking portion 533' configured to receive a portion of the cam 900'. The locking portion 533' may include a recess configured to receive a first portion 910' of the cam 900'. The locking portion 533' may include a projection configured to engage a first portion 910' of the cam 900'. The cam 900' may be biased by the cam spring 940' such that the first portion 910' rotatably engages the locking portion 533' of the movable stud 530' and locks the slewing ring 500' in a first rotational position, as shown in Fig. 6A. The second part 920' of the cam 900' may be configured to cooperate with the slope 840' of the movable pin 800' such that the cam 900' rotates from a locked position to a released position when the movable pin 800' moves upward from a first position to a second position, as shown in Fig. 6B. In some embodiments, the first portion 910" of the cam 900" may include a roller to engage the locking portion 533" as shown in Fig. 7 is shown.

[0110] Fig. 8A-B illustrates another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400'''. In some embodiments, the cam 900''' may be configured to slide linearly between a locked position and a released position within the body 700''' of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400'''. The first portion 910''' of the cam 900''' may be configured to slidably engage the locking portion 533''' of the movable stud 530''' and lock the slewing ring 500''' in a first rotational position, as shown in Fig. 8A. The second part 920''' of the cam 900''' may be configured to cooperate with the slope 840''' of the movable pin 800''' such that the cam 900''' slides from a locked position to a released position when the movable pin 800''' moves upwardly from a first position to a second position, as shown in Fig. 8B is shown.

[0111] Fig. 9A-D illustrates another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400''''. In some embodiments, the cam 900'''' may include a first portion 910'''' configured to contact a surface of the movable stud 530'''' opposite the surface of the movable stud 530'''' configured to contact the movable pin 800'''' when the cam 900'''' is in a locked position, as shown in Fig. 9A. The movable pin 800'''' may include a bevel 840'''' configured to contact the second part 920'''' of the cam 900'''', as shown in Fig. 9D, and rotates the cam 900'''' from a locked position to a released position, as shown in the Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C is shown.

[0112] Fig. 10A-D illustrates another embodiment of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400'''''. In some embodiments, as in Fig. 10A, the movable pin 800''''' may be centrally connected to a lever arm 801 ''''', which lever arm is also centrally connected to the body 700''''' of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400''''' and the cam 900'''''. The movable pin 800''''' may also be centrally and slidably connected to the movable stud 530''''', as shown in Fig. 10A. The lever arm 801''''' can be configured such that the lever arm 801 "'" rotates when the movable pin 800''''' moves from a first position, as shown in Fig. 10A, into a second position as shown in Fig. 10C. The lever arm 801 "'" can be designed so that the cam 900"''' moves slidably with respect to the body 700'''' from a fixed position, as shown in Fig. 10A, into a released position as shown in the Fig. 10B-D, moves when the movable pin 800''''' moves from a first position to a second position. The movable pin 800''''' may be configured to slide within a channel 534''''' in the movable socket 530''''' for a portion of the travel of the movable pin 800''''' and then reach the end of the channel 534''''' as the movable pin 800''''' moves from a first position to a second position. The movable pin 800''''' may force the slewing ring 500''''' to rotate from a first rotational position to a second rotational position as the movable pin 800''''' moves from a first position to a second position. The channel 534''''' may include a movable spring 820''''' configured to urge the movable pin 800''''' toward the first position.

[0113] Fig. 11A-D illustrates another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment mechanism 400''''''. In some embodiments, the swivel ring 500'''''' may include a locking channel 521 """. The locking channel may be formed in the outer member 520'''''', as shown in Fig. 11A. In other embodiments, the locking channel 521'''''' may be formed in the movable stud 530'''''' or another part of the slewing ring 500''''''. The cam 900'''''' may be configured to move within the body 700'''''' between a locked position, as shown in Fig. 11A, and a released position as shown in the Fig. 11B-D. The cam 900'''''' may be disposed within the locking channel 521 """ when the cam 900'''''' is in a locked position and not disposed within the locking channel 521 """ when the cam 900'''''' is in a released position. The movable pin 800'''''' may include a ramp 840'''''' configured to slidably contact a second portion 920'''''' of the cam 900'''''' and force the cam 900'''''' to slide from the locked position to a released position when the movable pin 800'''''' moves from a first position, as in Fig. 11A, into a second position as shown in Fig. 11B shown, moves.

[0114] With reference to the cross-sectional views shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 and the disassembled view shown in Fig. 14, the height-adjustable seat post 300 of the Fig. 2 may be referred to in some embodiments as a perch assembly 20'''''''. In some embodiments, the perch assembly 20''''''' may include a first support, such as an outer support 30''''''', and a second support, such as an inner support 60'''''''. The outer support 30''''''' may include a plurality of circumferential grooves 40''''''', cuts, or other features along its inner surface. As discussed in more detail herein, the grooves 40''''''' along the inner surface of the outer support 30''''''' are preferably sized, shaped, and otherwise adapted to be engaged by a collet or other expansion member of the inner support 60'''''''. In the illustrated arrangement, the outer support 30''''''' includes a total of eight grooves 40''''''' that are immediately adjacent to one another.Furthermore, each of the illustrated grooves 40''''''' may have an identical or substantially identical curved shape. However, in other embodiments, the number, size, shape, spacing, location, and / or other details of the grooves 40''''''' may vary as desired or required for a particular application or use. For example, the radius of curvature of the grooves 40''''''' may be larger or smaller than shown herein. Furthermore, the grooves 40''''''' may extend along a greater or lesser portion of the inside of the outer carrier 30'''''''.

[0115] The outer support 30''''''', the inner support 60'''''''', and / or any other portion of the perch assembly 20''''''' may comprise one or more materials, such as aluminum, titanium, steel, other metals or alloys, carbon fiber, thermoplastics, and / or the like. Regardless of the precise materials or combination of materials used, the outer and inner supports 30''''''', 60''''''''' are preferably structurally designed to withstand the various forces, moments, and other loads to which they may be subjected. The grooves 40''''''' along the inside of the outer support 30''''''' and / or any other feature along the inside or outside of the outer or inner supports 30''''''', 60''''''' may be formed at the same time the supports are manufactured.Alternatively, the grooves 40''''''' or any other feature may be machined or otherwise formed after the carriers 30''''''', 60''''''' are manufactured using one or more molding methods.

[0116] With further reference to Fig. 12, the lower portion of the outer support 30''''''' may include a pad 44''''''' or other underlying portion that prevents the inner support 60''''''' from being lowered beyond a desired local limit. As shown, the lower portion of the outer support 30''''''' may also include a lower groove 42''''''' into which the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion portion of the inner support 60''''''' may primarily engage when the inner support 60''''''' is moved to or near the local limit or other lowest specified point relative to the outer support 30'''''''.

[0117] As in Fig. 12, the lower portion of the outer support 30''''''' may include a spring or an air plug assembly 50'''''''. In some embodiments, the air plug assembly 50''''''' underlies the cushion 44''''''' or other part or element that vertically restricts further lowering of the inner support 60''''''' within the outer support 30'''''''. The air plug assembly 50''''''' may be configured to retain a volume of compressed air or liquid within the interior region of the outer support 30'''''''. For example, in the arrangement shown, the air plug assembly 50''''''' extends across the entire cross-sectional area of ​​the outer support 30'''''''''.One or more O-rings 56''''''' or other sealing elements may generally be disposed between the circumferential edges of the air plug assembly 50''''''''' and the inner wall of the outer support 30''''''''' to help contain the air or other fluids within the interior of the outer support 30'''''''. In addition, a sealing header 32''''''' may also help maintain a desired air spring.

[0118] With further reference to Fig. 12, the air plug assembly 50''''''' may include a Schrader valve 54''''''' or other air regulating device. The Schrader valve 54''''''' or other air regulating device may be configured to allow a bicycle to inject air or other fluids into the cavity 58''''''' in the outer carrier formed above the air plug assembly 50'''''''''. As discussed in greater detail herein, the cavity 58''''''' may be pressurized using air or other fluids to form an air spring that exerts a force on the inner carrier 60''''''' (e.g., the portions of the inner carrier 60''''''' immediately adjacent the cavity 58'''''''). In the illustrated embodiment, the Schrader valve is accessible from the lower, open end of the outer support 30'''''''.However, in other arrangements, the Schrader valve or air regulating device may be disposed along a different portion of the seat post assembly 20''''''. Furthermore, a coiled spring, a different type of spring element, or another type of device or method may be used to apply a force to the inner support 60'''''' either instead of or in addition to an air spring.

[0119] As in Fig. 12, the adjustable perch assembly 20''''''' may include an inner support 60''''''' slidably disposed with respect to the outer support 30''''''. In some embodiments, the outer and inner supports 30''''''', 60''''''' comprise generally hollow, cylindrically shaped tubular shapes, as illustrated herein. However, in other arrangements, the shape, size, thickness, and / or other details of the supports 30''''''', 60''''''' may vary as desired or required. In the arrangements shown, the inner support is configured to be mounted within the upper end of the outer support 30'''''''''. However, as discussed herein, the seat post assembly 20''''''' may be configured differently so that the positions of the inner support 60''''''' and the outer support 30''''''' may be reversed (i.e., the inner support may be mounted within an underlying outer support).

[0120] With further reference to the Fig. 12, Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, the inner support 60''''''' may include a collet or other expansion member 70''''''' along its lower end. The expansion member 70''''''' may include a split collet, another type of spring member, or other non-resilient expandable members. In the embodiment shown, the expansion member 70''''''' is a separate member attached to the inner support 60'''''''. The expansion member 70''''''' and the adjacent surfaces of the inner support 60''''''' may be machined to include one or more features (e.g., grooves, other depressions, protrusions, etc.) that can be used to mechanically engage one another.Alternatively, the expansion portion 70''''''' and the inner support 60''''''' may be connected using one or more other joining devices or methods, such as edges, threads, solder joints, rivets, fasteners, flanges, adhesives, friction-fit joints, and / or the like. In other arrangements, the inner support 60''''''' is integrally molded with the expansion portion 70'''''''. In the . Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the clamping ring 70''''''' is generally attached to the end of the inner support 60'''''''. However, the clamping ring 70''''''' or the other expansion part may also be attached to any other location on the inner support 60'''''''.

[0121] The Fig. 15A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a clamp ring 70'''''''' adapted to be attached to the inner support 60''''''' of the seat post assembly 20'''''''. As shown, the clamp ring 70''''''' may include one or more slots 72''''''' and / or other features that allow it to resiliently contract inwardly. In the arrangement shown, each of the slots 72''''''' is vertically aligned and terminates at a circular opening 74''''''' disposed along the clamp ring body. The slots 72''''''' preferably divide the clamp ring 70''''''' into a series of clamp ring sections or arms 75'''''''.

[0122] With further reference to the Fig. 12-15A, the clamping ring 70''''''' may include a cantilevered portion 76''''''' configured to engage one of the grooves 40''''''' formed along the inner wall of the outer support 30'''''''. However, one or more other portions of the clamping ring 70''''''' or the other expansion portion of the inner support 60''''''' may be adapted to engage a groove 40''''' of the outer support 30'''''''. In another embodiment, the clamping ring 70''''''' or the other expansion portion is configured to engage an interior region of the outer support 30''''''' along a region that does not include grooves 40''''''' or other discernible features (e.g., a generally smooth surface of the inner surface of the outer support 30''''''').

[0123] The number, size, shape, spacing, and / or other details of the slots 72''''''', openings 74''''''', and / or arms 75''''''' of the clamping ring 70''''''' may vary as desired or required. For example, in some embodiments, the clamping ring 70''''''' need not include any slots or openings at all. Instead, the clamping ring 70''''''' may be configured so that one or more of its portions can be resiliently contracted or expanded (e.g., circumferentially). Alternatively, the slots between certain clamping ring arms could be very wide such that there is a high-angle portion of the circumference of the clamping ring 70''''''' that does not have any physical structure that engages the grooves of the outer support.Preferably, however, the arms define projecting parts which extend over at least 180°, at least 240°, at least 270°, at least 300°, at least 320° and preferably substantially completely over the 360° circumference of the clamping ring.

[0124] As in the Fig. 12-15A, the extending portion 76''''''' of the collet 70''''''' or other expansion portion of the inner support 60''''''' may be shaped, sized, and otherwise configured to match or substantially match the shape of the grooves 40 formed along the inner wall of the outer support 30'''''''. Accordingly, the extending portion 76''''''' may generally snug fit one of the grooves when in its circumferentially expanded state. As discussed in greater detail herein, the extending portion 76''''''' of the collet 70''''''' may be selectively allowed to retract inwardly to engage the collet 70''''''' in a different groove 40''''''' or other area along the inner wall of the outer support 30'''''''. Consequently, the vertical position of the inner support 60''''''' with respect to the outer support 30''''''' can be selectively varied.

[0125] In certain arrangements, the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion portion comprises a steel spring and / or other resilient material. As discussed in greater detail herein, the use of such materials allows the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion portion to contract and expand to engage various portions of the contoured inner wall of the outer support 30'''''''. In one arrangement, the clamping ring 70''''''' is configured to remain in an extended position (as shown in the Fig. 12-15A) when no forces act on it.

[0126] As discussed in more detail herein, for example with reference to the Fig. 12-15C, the expansion portion of the inner support may include one or more other devices or features for contacting an inner wall of the outer support. In some embodiments, the expansion portion includes one or more detents, balls, and / or other sections, parts, or features that engage corresponding features or parts of the outer support. For example, such detents, balls, or other elements may swing, slide, roll, or otherwise move radially outward (e.g., from a retracted or unexpanded orientation).

[0127] The inner support 60''''''' may include a retention component 80''''''', which in some embodiments is normally preloaded to at least partially fit within an interior region of the clamping ring 70''''''' or the other expansion component (e.g., detents, balls, other movable features, etc.). In some embodiments, as discussed in more detail herein, the retention component 80''''''' includes a supporting portion 81''''''' and a locking portion 90'''''''. In other arrangements, the retention component 80''''''' may include only the supporting portion 81 ....... or only the fixing part 90'''''''. In addition, a retention component 80 may comprise one or more other parts or elements either in addition to or instead of the supporting part 81 .......and / or the locking part 90'''''''. Regardless of its precise configuration, the retention member 80''''''' is preferably adapted to hold the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion part of the inner support 60''''''' in an extended position such that the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion part remains engaged in a groove 40''''''' or other inner part of the outer support 30'''''''. As discussed in more detail herein, this prevents relative movement between the inner support 60''''''' and the outer support 30''''''', thereby maintaining the vertical position of the bicycle saddle.

[0128] As in Fig. 13, the supporting part 81 .......a substantially tubular upper portion and a circumferentially widened lower portion 83'''''''. In some arrangements, the widened lower portion 82''''''' includes a tapered outer surface 83 ....... which is configured in size, shape, inclination, and otherwise to conform to and substantially connect with an adjacent tapered inner surface 77''''''' along the projecting portion of the clamping ring 70''''''' when the widened lower portion 82''''''' is resiliently biased thereagainst. An exploded view of one embodiment of an inner carrier 60''''''' including a retention component 80''''''' is shown in Fig. 14 shown.

[0129] According to some embodiments, the inner support 60 includes one or more coil springs or other biasing elements that help to press the retention component 80''''''' (e.g., the supporting part 81''''''', the locking part 90''''''', etc.) against the inside of the clamping ring 70'''''''. For example, as in Fig. 13, a spring housing 86''''''' or other similar element (for example, a plate, other adjacent surface, etc.) may be used to provide a desired preload force against the supporting part 81 ....... of the retention component 80 ....... As discussed in more detail herein, the supporting part 81 .......and / or any other part of the retention component 80''''''' can be selectively moved against the biasing force of one or more springs 88''''''' or other resilient element to move the enlarged lower portion 82''''''' of the supporting portion 81''''''' and / or any other part of the retention component 80''''''' upwardly, substantially outwardly of the interior region of the projecting portion 76''''''' of the tension ring 70''''''' or other expansion portion of the inner support 60 ....... to move. This can advantageously allow the projecting part 76''''''' of the clamping ring 70''''''' to be compressed when a sufficiently large upward or downward force is exerted on the inner support 60'''''''. Consequently, the inner support 60''''''' can be slidably moved with respect to the outer support 30'''''''. Thus, the vertical position of a saddle or other seating element attached to the inner support 60....... appropriate, can be selectively changed.

[0130] As discussed, the retention component 80''''''' can help to maintain or "lock" the extended portion 76''''''' of the clamping ring 70''''''' in its normal expanded state to prevent relative movement between the outer and inner supports 30''''''', 60'''''''. To further ensure that the extended portion 76''''''' remains expanded, the retention component 80 ....... a locking part 90''''''' or other similar part, feature or device. In the embodiment shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the locking part 90''''''' is substantially below and immediately adjacent to the supporting part 81 .......attached. As shown, the locking portion 90''''''' may be slidable within a central cavity of the supporting portion 81'''''''. In another arrangement, the relative position of the supporting portion 81''''''' and the locking portion 90''''''', the manner in which the components interact with each other, and / or other details of these components may vary as desired or required.

[0131] Similar to the supporting portion 81''''''', the locking portion 90''''''' may be resiliently biased against an inner portion of the projecting portion 76''''''' of the clamping ring 70''''''' using one or more coil springs 94''''''' or other resilient elements. For example, a spring 94''''''', as shown, may be disposed within an inner recessed portion of the supporting portion 81 ....... present so that they exert a downward force on the locking part 90 .......In the illustrated arrangement, the locking part 90''''''' is designed to contact the widened lower part 82''''''' of the supporting part 81''''''' when moved sufficiently far against the urging force of the spring 94''''''' (e.g., upwards, as shown). Therefore, the locking part 90''''''' is moved (e.g., upwards, as shown in Fig. 13) until it reaches the widened lower part 82 ....... of the supporting part 81 ....... contacted to move the lower part 82''''''' of the supporting part 81''''''' out of the projecting part 76''''''' of the clamping ring 70'''''''. Then the continued movement of the locking part 90''''''' will cause the locking part 90 ....... and the supporting part 81 ....... simultaneously against the preload force of one or more springs 88''''''', 94 .......move. If the retention component 80'''''''' (for example, the locking part 90'''''''', the supporting part 81''''''', etc.) is moved far enough away from the inside of the projecting part 76''''''' of the tension ring 70''''''' (or another expansion part), the tension ring 70''''''' can be allowed to retract inward so that the inner carrier 60 ....... can be moved relative to the outer support 30'''''''.

[0132] Although in the embodiments illustrated and discussed herein, the retention member 80 ....... a supporting part 81 ....... and a fixing part 90''''''', it will be recognized that the retention component 80''''''' also only comprises a load-bearing part 81 .......or a similar device to prevent the clamping ring 70''''''' or another expansion part of the inner support 60''''''' from contracting inward. Alternatively, the retention component 80''''''' may only have a locking part 90''''''' and no supporting part 81 .......However, in some embodiments, the use of an expansion member or other member having sloped outer surfaces, such as the supporting member 81''''''', is preferred because such a member helps ensure the secure connection of the tension ring 70''''''' to the grooves, despite wear or manufacturing. Moreover, in other arrangements, the adjustable rod member 20''''''' may include an entirely different method for ensuring that the tension ring 70''''''' or other expansion member of the inner support 60''''''' remains connected to a groove 40''''''' or other part of the outer support. For example, the retention member 80''''''' configured to retain the tension ring 70''''''' or other expansion member of the inner support 60''''''' may have a less complicated or a more complicated design.In some embodiments, the retention member 80''''''' comprises only a single part and / or component (e.g., a supporting part 81''''''', a locking part, any other part or element, etc.). In other arrangements, the retention member 80''''''' includes two, three, four, or more different parts and / or components.

[0133] As noted above, an expansion member may include any of a plurality of movable elements that may selectively contact an inner wall of the outer support. By way of example only, with reference to the embodiment shown in FIGS. Fig. 15B and Fig. 15C, the expansion member 70''''''' may include one or more balls 72'''''''' that can be moved between a radially compressed position ( Fig. 15B) and a radially extended position ( Fig. 15C). In other embodiments, detents, edges, or other elements may swing, slide, roll, or otherwise move between such radially compressed and expanded positions. As with the collet assemblies disclosed herein, such movable elements may be configured to maintain a normal, radially expanded position or another outward orientation (e.g., such that the movable elements are capable of contacting or engaging a corresponding feature or portion of the outer support). In some embodiments, the detents, balls, or other elements of an expandable or movable portion are resiliently biased in a radially expanded configuration (e.g., using one or more springs, other resilient devices, etc.).) Alternatively, a desired outwardly oriented configuration for such components or features may be maintained using one or more other devices or methods, such as sleeves, levers, cams, pins, and / or the like.

[0134] The detents, balls, or other movable elements included in an expansion part can be retained in a radially expanded orientation using a retention component. The retention component can be the same as that described herein with reference to the Fig. 12-14 for the clamping ring embodiments, and enjoy certain advantages. Alternatively, however, other types of configurations may be used to ensure that the movable elements are securely and appropriately held in a desired orientation (e.g., radially outward).

[0135] For example, in an expansion member comprising one or more balls adapted to roll outwardly to contact corresponding features along the adjacent inner wall of the outer support, a sleeve or other portion of a retention component may be moved within an interior region of the expansion member to help urge and retain the balls against an outer perimeter of the expansion member. In some embodiments, the sleeve or other portion of a retention component ensures that the balls or other movable elements remain in an outwardly extended orientation as long as the position of the sleeve or other portion of a retention component is maintained appropriately with respect to the expansion member. Fig. 15C, for example, a sleeve 80''''''' or other part of a retention component may be moved within an interior region of the expansion part 70''''''' to ensure that the balls 72''''''' are moved and retained in a radially outward orientation.

[0136] Regardless of their exact configuration, the movable components or features (e.g., detents, balls, etc.) of an expansion member can preferably be moved between a radially expanded and a radially compressed position to adjust the vertical position of an inner support relative to an outer support. Accordingly, the vertical position of a seat post, fork, and / or other parts of a bicycle can be advantageously adjusted by a rider, as discussed herein with reference to the clamping ring embodiments.

[0137] In some embodiments, an actuating device or system may be used to move the retention component 80''''''' (e.g., the supporting portion 81''''''', the locking portion 90''''''', etc.) and / or any other portion of the perch component 20'''''''. Referring to the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, a cable 100'''''', rod, connector, or other movable member extending through the interior of the inner support 60''''''' is operably connected to a cable securing member 92''''''' located beneath the supporting member 81''''''' and the locking member 90'''''''. In the illustrated arrangement, the cable securing member 92''''''' is secured to the adjacent locking member 90''''''' using one or more joining devices or methods, such as threaded fasteners, rivets, other types of fasteners, solder joints, bolts, adhesives, and / or the like. Alternatively, the cable securing element 92'''''''' may be attached to the supporting portion 81'''''''' and / or any other portion of the retention member 80''''''', either in addition to, or instead of, simply being attached to the locking portion 90'''''''.

[0138] With further reference to the cross-sectional views of the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the cable 100''''''', bolt, connector, or other movable member may be inserted within a passage of the cable securing member 92'''''''. Additionally, the cable 100''''''' may be secured to the cable securing member 92''''''' by inserting and tightening a stop screw or other fastener in one or more side openings 94'''''''. However, one or more alternative devices or methods may be used to secure the cable 100''''''' within the cable securing member 92'''''''. The cable 100''''''', bolt, connector, or other movable member preferably comprises one or more durable materials designed to withstand the forces and stresses to which they may be subjected during use of the adjustable seat post assembly 20'''''''. For example, the cable 100'''''''' may contain one or more metal(s) (e.g.B. steel), thermoplastics, composite materials and / or similar.

[0139] In the embodiment of the adjustable perch component illustrated herein, the cable 100''''''' is configured to pass through or near the axial center of the inner support 60'''''''. Accordingly, one or more of the components of the inner support 60''''''' may need to be configured to allow unobstructed passage of the cable therethrough. For example, as shown, the upper cylindrical portion of the retention component 80''''''' (e.g., the supporting portion 81''''''', the locking portion 90''''''', etc.) may include an opening 84''''''' through which the cable 100''''''' is passed. Additionally, the cable 100''''''' may be routed through one or more components of the seat post assembly 20''''''', including, but not limited to, the springs 88''''''', 94''''''', the spring housing 86''''''', the tension ring 70''''''' or other expansion member and / or the like.

[0140] In Fig. 12, the cable 100''''''', bolt, or other movable member is attached to a tension bolt member 110''''''' located at or near the top of the inner support 60'''''''. As discussed herein with respect to the connection between the cable 100''''''' and the cable securing member 92''''''', one or more devices or methods may be used to attach the cable 100''''''' to the tension bolt member 110'''''''. In some embodiments, a desired amount of tension may be maintained in the cable 100''''''' located within the seat post member 20'''''''. In the illustrated arrangement, such tension is provided in the cable 100''''''' by inserting a spring 118''''''' or other resilient element between an upper inner surface of the inner support 60''''''' and a spring plate 116''''''' attached to the tension bolt member 110'''''''.The tension bolt member 110''''''' may, in turn, be mechanically connected to another cable (not shown), bolt, or other member configured to operably connect the tension bolt member 110''''''' and the cable 100''''''' to a lever, switch, button, and / or other actuating device. In some embodiments, such a lever or other actuating device is positioned on or near the handlebars of a bicycle to allow a rider to conveniently manipulate the seat post member. Alternatively, the tension bolt member 110''''''' and the cable 100''''''' may be operably connected to a lever or other actuating device located elsewhere on the bicycle (e.g., beneath the seat, along one or more frame members, etc.).

[0141] As already discussed, when the cable 100''''''' is retracted from its rest position (e.g. moved upwards as shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13), a retention member 80'''''''' (e.g., the supporting portion 81'''''''', the locking portion 90'''''''', the sleeve, and / or any other portions or components of the retention member 80''''''') is moved away from the interior of the projecting portion 76''''''' of the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion member (e.g., balls, detents, or other movable elements, etc.) formed with or attached to the inner support 60'''''''. As a result, the clamping ring 70''''''' or other expansion member may be allowed to contract inwardly or otherwise move inwardly (e.g., slide, roll, etc.) so that the expansion member (e.g., the projecting portion 76''''''' of the clamping ring, the balls, the detents, etc.) may selectively engage another groove 40''''''' or another inner surface or portion of the inner support 60'''''''.Likewise, if the cable 100''''''' is allowed to resiliently retract to its rest position (e.g., with the assistance of one or more springs 88''''''', 94''''''', 118''''''' or other biasing elements), the retention member 80''''''' may move within the interior region of the cantilevered portion of the tension ring 70''''''', thereby restricting or limiting the ability of the tension ring to contract inwardly. As discussed in more detail herein, this may help prevent or reduce the relative movement between the outer support 30''''''' and the inner support 60'''''''.

[0142] As an example, the Fig. 16A-16D depict various views of one embodiment of the mechanically operated adjustable member 920'''''''. In the arrangement shown, the control cable C is configured to pass through the sealing head portion of the member 920'''''''. As discussed with reference to other arrangements disclosed herein, the member 920''''''' may include an inner support or tube 960''''''' that is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to be slidably disposed within at least a portion of an outer support or tube 930'''''''. In some embodiments, the outer support 930''''''' is configured to be attached to a bicycle frame and to remain substantially stationary with respect to the bicycle frame.In contrast, the inner support 960'''''', which may be attached to a bicycle saddle, is allowed to move relative to the adjacent outer support 930'''''' and the bicycle frame, allowing the rider to advantageously adjust the height of the saddle during use. Thus, the need to provide a minimum amount of excess in the length of the control cable exiting the adjustable assembly is eliminated or reduced.

[0143] With reference to the perspective views of the Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C, the mechanically actuated control cable C may be removably or permanently attached to a joint 936''''''' located at or near the sealing head portion 932''''''' of the component 920'''''''. In some embodiments, the cable C is connected to a cable retention member 937''''''' that is operably connected to the joint 936'''''''. For clarity, one or more components of the assembly, such as the outer tube and certain components of the sealing head portion 932''''''', have been omitted from these figures to more clearly show the manner in which mechanical actuation of the cables is performed. As shown, a cable 938''''''' may extend from the joint 936''''''' of the sealing head portion 932''''''' and downward along the interior region of the outer tube (for clarity, Fig. 16B and Fig. 16C not shown).

[0144] With further reference to the cross-sectional view shown in Fig. 16D, the cable 938''''''' may be routed to or near the lower portion of the component's outer tube or support 930''''''', where the direction of the cable is reversed using a gripping pull 952''''''' or similar device. As shown, the gripping pull 952''''''' may advantageously align the cable 938''''''' with the radial centerline of the system such that the cable is routed upwardly through the interior region of the outer tube (and possibly one or more of the inner components of the outer tube). According to some embodiments, the cable 938''''''' is mechanically attached to a retention member 980''''''' that is resiliently biased at least partially within an interior region of a tension ring or other expansion element or member 970'''''''.As discussed herein with reference to other embodiments, the expansion portion 970''''''' is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to engage a corresponding groove, cutout, and / or other surface of the inner tube 960''''''' to maintain a desired relative orientation between the inner and outer tubes 960''''''', 930'''''''. Furthermore, when the retention member 980''''''' is within an interior region or space of the collet or other expansion portion 970''''''', the expansion portion is not allowed to contract inwardly, further ensuring that the expansion portion 970''''''' remains in interlocking contact with the inner tube.

[0145] In some embodiments, the control cable C attached to the cable securing element 937 .......attached and which exits the sealing head portion 932''''''', the same cable 938''''''', which is routed within an interior region of the outer tube 930''''''' (e.g., around the gripping cable) which ultimately couples to the retention component 980'''''''. In other arrangements, however, the inner cable 938''''''' is distinct from the control cable C exiting the component. In such an embodiment, the separate cables 938''''''', C may be operably connected to one another at or near the sealing head portion 932''''''' (e.g., via the cable retaining member 938''''''', the knuckle 936''''''', and / or one or more of the other components or devices).

[0146] Accordingly, to avoid the need for an overhang in the control cable C, the clamping ring or other expansion member 970''''''' may be attached to the outer or lower tube or support 930''''''', and the grooves or depressions (and / or other surfaces) engaged by the expansion member 970''''''' are disposed along an inner surface of the inner or upper tube or support 960'''''''. This is fundamentally the opposite of at least some of the embodiments of the adjustable assembly illustrated and discussed herein (e.g., see Fig. 12-14). Thus, regardless of the exact location and orientation of the expansion part, the grooves or depressions and / or the like, the adjustable arrangement can function in a similar manner. For example, in the embodiments of the Fig. 16A-16D an air spring (and / or some other type of spring or resilient element) may be provided within the upper or lower tube to ensure that an upward force is exerted on the upper tube.

[0147] The Fig. 17A-17D illustrate an embodiment of an adjustable assembly 1020'''''''' wherein the mechanically actuated control cable C, an additional embodiment of the cable 321 ,,,,,,, out of Fig. 2, at or near the bottom of the array. As best seen in the cross-sectional views of the Fig. 17B-17D, the control cable C exits the assembly at or near the lower end of the outer tube 1030''''''. For clarity, at least a portion of the outer tube 1030'''''' has been omitted from these figures. The cable C may be connected to a pivot or joint 1036''''''' such that the pivot or joint 1036''''''' is moved against a resilient or other biasing force when the cable is pulled downward (e.g., generally away from the assembly) to also move the inner cable 1038''''''' downward (e.g., toward the lower end of the assembly). Such a downward movement of the cable 1038''''''' will cause the retention member 1080''''''', which is directly or indirectly connected to the cable 1038''''''', to also move downward against a biasing force formed by one or more springs S or other resilient elements.As discussed herein in consideration of other embodiments, movement of the retention member 1080''''''' relative to the interior of the clamping ring or other expansion portion or element 1070''''''' may allow the expansion portion to contract inwardly. Accordingly, the expansion portion 1070''''''' may disengage from a corresponding groove, recess, and / or other portion of the inner wall of the inner tube 1060''''''', allowing the rider to conveniently and reliably adjust the vertical position of the adjustable assembly.

[0148] With further reference to the embodiment shown in the Fig. 17A-17D, the clamping ring or other expansion member 1070''''''' may be connected to one or more tubes or elements 1052''''''' mounted within an interior region of the outer tube 1030'''''''. In some embodiments, such inner tubes or elements 1052''''''' are held in a fixed orientation with respect to the outer tube 1030''''''' using one or more mounting plugs 1058''''''' or other elements or components. The use of internal tubes, mounting plugs, and / or other components may assist in strengthening the assembly and enhance the structural integrity and / or capacity of the clamping ring or other expansion member 1070'''''''.

[0149] The Fig. 18A-31 illustrate another embodiment of a saddle angle adjustment device 18200, wherein a saddle 105 is allowed to be tilted between a first rotational position and a second rotational position. For example, Fig. 18A illustrates the saddle 105 in the first rotational position. The first rotational position may be referred to herein as a raised position, a forward tilted position, a horizontal position, and / or the like. In the first rotational position, the saddle 105 and / or a saddle rail 107 of the saddle is substantially horizontal or parallel to a ground plane when an unloaded bicycle is placed on a horizontal ground plane. Although the saddle 105 in Fig. 18A is substantially parallel to a ground plane, the saddle 105 is in a forwardly tilted position with respect to a central axis of the height-adjustable seat post assembly 300.

[0150] The second rotational position may be referred to herein as a lowered position, a backward tilted position, and / or the like. As described in Fig. 18B, in the second rotational position, the saddle 105 is no longer in a plane with a ground plane, but is tilted rearwardly with respect to a ground plane, with the rear end of the saddle being lower than the front end of the saddle. In this position, the saddle is generally at a right angle to a central axis of the seat post 300, as shown in Fig. 18B. However, in some embodiments, the second rotational position does not necessarily have to be a position in which the saddle is at a right angle to the axis of the seat post. Rather, the second rotational position can be any rotational position in which the angle α shown in Fig. 19 and described in more detail below, is larger than in the first rotational position.

[0151] The Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B illustrate side views of the saddle angle adjustment device 18200 mounted on a bicycle frame 110. In Fig. 18A, the height-adjustable seat post 300 is shown in a raised position, and the saddle 105 is shown in a raised, forward-tilted, or horizontal position (e.g., the first rotational position). As disclosed in various embodiments herein, the seat angle adjustment mechanism 18400 may be configured to automatically tilt the saddle 105 rearward when the height-adjustable seat post 300 moves to a lowered position. Fig. 18B illustrates a side view of the height adjustable seat post 300 in the lowered position and the saddle 105 tilted rearward (e.g., in the second rotational position).

[0152] Fig. 19 shows a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 of the Fig. 18A and Fig. 18B. The seat angle adjustment mechanism 18400 includes a seat receiving member 19510 configured to connect to seat rails 107 of the seat 105. The seat receiving member 19510 also includes rail retaining members 19600 configured to clamp against the seat rails 107 to hold or lock the seat 105 in position relative to the seat receiving member 19510. As described in more detail below, the seat receiving member 19510 and a pivot arm 2002 form a pivoting seat support assembly pivotally connected to a hydraulic actuation mechanism configured to enable selective pivoting of a seat between a forward-facing and a rearward-facing position.

[0153] Similar to the embodiment shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 and described above, the saddle receiving part 19510 defines a partially cylindrical surface which defines a rail receiving axis that is collinear with a central axis of a portion of the rail 107 that contacts the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400. The saddle angle "α" shown in Fig. 19 is defined by the angle between the rail receiving axis and the central axis of the upper support 320 of the height-adjustable seat post 300. In various embodiments, the seat angle α may have an adjustment range between the first rotational position and the second rotational position that is the same as the ranges described above with reference to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. In addition, the adjustments of the height-adjustable seat post 300 can lead to adjustments of the saddle angle α which are the same as described above with reference to the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Additionally, in some embodiments, an adjustment of the seat post 300 of at least 5 mm may result in allowing the saddle 105 to rotate between the first and second rotational positions. In other embodiments, other magnitudes of movement of the seat post 300 may result in allowing the saddle 105 to rotate between the first and second rotational positions, as described in more detail below.

[0154] The Fig. 20-23 show additional views of the saddle angle adjustment device 18200. Fig. 20 shows a perspective view of the saddle angle adjustment device 18200, Fig. 21 shows a side view of the saddle angle adjustment device 18200, Fig. 22 shows a disassembled view of the adjustment device and Fig. Figure 23 shows a cross-sectional view of the saddle angle adjustment device 18200.

[0155] The seat angle adjustment device 18200 includes the seat angle adjustment mechanism 18400 connected to a height-adjustable seat post including an upper bracket 320 and a lower bracket 310. The seat angle adjustment mechanism 18400 includes a hydraulic actuation mechanism (described in more detail below) that cooperates with a tension ring mechanism of the height-adjustable seat post to enable automatic actuation of the seat angle adjustment mechanism when the upper bracket 320 is moved relative to the lower bracket 310.

[0156] The height of the seat post, which is in the Fig. 20-23, is adjusted using a clamping ring mechanism which is similar in design to the height adjustment mechanism described above with reference to the Fig. 12-17D. As well as these embodiments, the embodiment described in the Fig. 20-23, a clamping ring 2220 that engages with one of a plurality of circumferential grooves or an inner surface of the upper support. When the clamping ring 2220 is secured at a location in one of these grooves, the height of the adjustable heights of the rod is fixed. However, the clamping ring 2220 of the saddle angle adjustment device 18200 preferably acts, unlike the embodiment in Fig. 12, cooperates with the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 to enable movement or angle adjustment of the saddle. Specifically, as described in more detail below, an actuating extension piece 2302 of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 contacts the clamping ring 2220 when the upper bracket 320 is in a lowered position. When the actuating extension piece 2302 contacts the clamping ring 2220, the actuating extension piece 2302 translates upwardly, opening a unidirectional flow path for a hydraulic fluid, allowing the saddle to change angle (in this case, to rotate rearwardly).Additionally, when the upper bracket 320 moves upward to an elevated position, the actuation extension piece 2302 shifts back downward, reversing the flow path for the hydraulic fluid and allowing the saddle to rotate in an opposite direction. Although in this embodiment, the clamping ring 2220 contacts the actuation extension piece 2302 to enable rotation of the saddle 105, in other embodiments, the actuation extension piece 2302 may be configured to contact another part of the seat post, a part of the bicycle or bicycle frame that is not part of the seat post, and / or the like. Further details of the operation of the hydraulic mechanism are discussed below with reference to FIG. Fig. 24-31 indicated.

[0157] The height of the height adjustable seat post can be adjusted in a similar way to the height adjustable seat post used in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Namely, by a clamping ring 2220 being designed to engage with a plurality of grooves on an inner surface of the upper support 320. For example, the upper support 320 includes a top circumferential groove 2340, a plurality of middle grooves 2344, and a bottom groove 2342, as shown in Fig. 23. In the design shown in Fig. 23, the height-adjustable seatpost is shown in a raised position with the clamping ring 2220 in the downward groove 2342. When the clamping ring is positioned in a groove, a clamping ring positioning mechanism 2222 prevents the clamping ring from collapsing and maintains the relative position of the upper bracket 320 with respect to the lower bracket 310. When an actuating mechanism for the clamping ring 2102 is actuated, e.g., by pulling a control cable, the actuating mechanism for the clamping ring 2102 exerts a pulling force on the cable 2224, which translates the clamping ring positioning mechanism 2222, which then translates with respect to the clamping ring 2220, allowing the clamping ring 2220 to collapse. When the clamping ring 2220 has collapsed, the upper support 320 is able to move or slide with respect to the lower support 310.The upper support 320 can then be secured in another position by positioning the clamping ring 2220 in one of the other circumferential grooves 2340 or 2344.

[0158] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, a tension ring actuation mechanism 2102 and a cable guide 2014 are disposed at a lower end of the lower bracket 210. The cable guide 2014 is configured to route an actuation control cable away from the seatpost, for example, to allow the cable to extend to a control unit 301 mounted, for example, on the bicycle's forelegs. The cable can be used to actuate the tension ring actuation mechanism 2102, which in turn pulls on the cable 2224, which displaces a tension ring positioning mechanism 2222, as described above.Although in this embodiment, the cable 2224 is preferably routed to a lower end of the seat post and actuated by a mechanism attached to the lower end of the seat post, in various other embodiments, the cable 2224 may be routed to a different location and / or actuated by a mechanism attached to a different location. For example, any of the cables and actuation methods described above, e.g., with respect to FIG. Fig. 12-17D, can be used.

[0159] With further reference to Fig. 22, the height-adjustable seatpost further includes two adjustment wedges 2218 to prevent the upper support 320 from rotating relative to the lower support 310. The height-adjustable seatpost also includes system parts 2228 necessary for mounting the tension ring mechanism and a cable return spring 2229. The cable return spring is used to return the tension ring actuating mechanism 2102 to its upper or rest position after, for example, a rider releases the control element 301. The system parts 2228 necessary for mounting the tension ring mechanism are used to mount the tension ring actuating mechanism 2102 and to locate this mechanism relative to the lower support 310.The system components 2228 necessary for mounting the clamping ring mechanism may, in some embodiments, include various seals to keep the elements out of the interior of the device. The height-adjustable seat post also includes a clamping ring support post 2226 configured to support and position the clamping ring 2220 and the clamping ring positioning mechanism 2222.

[0160] The seat angle adjustment mechanism 18400 includes a seat support member 19510 mounted on a pivot arm 2002. The pivot arm 2002 rotates about a pivot pin 2004, which is connected to a mounting clamp ring 2006. By rotating about the pivot pin 2004, the pivot arm 2002 allows the bicycle seat to tilt forward and backward about a pivot axis defined by the pivot pin 2004. Although in this embodiment, the pivot axis is defined by a pivot pin, various other mechanical methods may be used to define the pivot axis. The ability of the arm 2002 to rotate is preferably limited by an actuator 2008 that extends from the lower bracket 320 and is connected to the arm 2002. The actuating element 2008 is connected to a piston rod 2202, which is inserted into the Fig. 22 and Fig. 23. The piston rod 2202 is part of a hydraulic system that allows the actuator 2008 to be locked in certain positions and / or to be configured to move in only one direction.

[0161] In this embodiment, the pivot arm 2002 is rotatably connected to a mounting clamp ring 2006, which in turn is connected to the upper support 320. The clamp ring 2006 may include a spacer arm 2106 (in Fig. 21) or a similar spacing element to space the pivot axis of the pivot pin 2004 upward and also forward of an axis of the upper bracket 320. In other embodiments, the spacer arm 2002 may be directly pivotally attached to the upper bracket 320 or even directly pivotally attached to the bicycle frame 110.

[0162] As with various other embodiments, the arrangement shown in the Fig. 20-23, is configured to allow the saddle receiving portion 19510 to rotate, and preferably to rotate in a single direction, when the upper support 320 is lowered to a lowered position relative to the lower support 310. The Fig. 20-23 illustrate the saddle receiving part 19510 in a raised position. For example, the raised position may place the saddle 105 in a level position with respect to a ground plane, as in Fig. 18A. However, when the upper support 320 is lowered to a lowered position, the actuating extension piece 2302 of the outer body or the sleeve 2206, which is in Fig. 23, in contact with an upper surface of the clamping ring 2220, which causes the hydraulic arrangement of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism to allow the piston rod 2202 to descend relative to the upper support 320. As the piston rod 2202 descends, the pivot arm 2202 also descends (thereby rotating the saddle rearward) because the pivot arm 2202 is attached to the actuator 2008 using the bolt 2010, while the actuator 2008 is attached to the piston rod 2002. Accordingly, the saddle receiving part 19510 is capable of descending to a lowered position, as shown in Fig. 18B is shown.

[0163] With further reference to the Fig. 22 and Fig. 23, the hydraulic portion of the seat angle adjustment mechanism in this embodiment also includes a spring 2012 configured to bias the pivot arm 2002 in an upward position. The spring 2012 surrounds the piston rod 2202 and is mounted below the actuator 2008 to bias it upward in an axial direction. For example, a rider's body weight may overcome the force of the spring 2012 and cause the seat receiver 19510 to lower when the system is actuated in a lowered position to allow the pivot arm 2002 to descend to a lowered position.

[0164] However, when the upper support 320 moves upward to an elevated position and the rider removes his or her body weight from the saddle 105, the spring 2012 can be used to automatically return the saddle 105 to its upper or forward position, as shown in Fig. 18. The spring 2012 may, in some embodiments, alternatively be another type of energy storage device, such as a coil spring, an air spring, a resilient material, and / or the like.

[0165] The saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 also includes an inner body or sleeve 2204 that includes a plurality of openings (e.g., holes, orifices, slots, outlets, inlets, fluid passages) 2205. The inner sleeve 2204, in this embodiment, includes a support contacting portion connected to the upper support 320. The inner sleeve 2204 fits at least partially within the outer sleeve 2206. A plurality of O-rings 2208 are mounted within the grooves of the outer sleeve 2206 to form a plurality of separate cavities between the inner sleeve 2204 and the outer sleeve 2206. The interaction of these cavities may enable the hydraulic function of this mechanism, as described in more detail below. The hydraulic mechanism also includes a seal 2212 and an O-ring 2214 mounted on an upper end of the inner sleeve 2204, for exampleto keep the hydraulic fluid within the sleeve and / or to keep dust and other contaminants out of the mechanism. The hydraulic mechanism also includes balance rings 2216 and a spring 2210, which are described in more detail below.

[0166] The Fig. 24-31 are cross-sectional views of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism 18400 of the Fig. 18A-23 in various stages of operation. The sequence begins with the Fig. 24 and Fig. 25, wherein the seat receiving part 19510 is in a fully upward or forward tilted position (with respect to the seat post axis and preferably horizontal with respect to the base plane; e.g., the first rotational position), and the seat post is in a raised position, as in Fig. 18A. The sequence continues to Fig. 26, in which the seat post has been lowered into a lowered position. Next, the Fig. 27 and Fig. 28 shows the saddle support part 19510 in a lowered or tilted backwards position (with respect to the seat post axis, and preferably the surface of the horizontal ground; e.g. the second rotational position), as shown in Fig. 18B. At the end, the Fig. 29-31 show the saddle support part 19510 as it can be adjusted to an upright or forward tilted position as shown in Fig. 18A.

[0167] The Fig. 24 and Fig. 25 illustrate the saddle support member 19510 in its upright position with the upper support 320 in a raised position. The hydraulic part of the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprises two pistons, 2502, 2504 and two chambers 2402, 2404. As shown in the Fig. 24 and Fig. 25, the hydraulic mechanism includes an upper chamber 2402 with an upper piston 2502 and a lower chamber 2404 with a lower piston 2504. In the illustrated embodiment (e.g., where the saddle and seat post are in raised positions), the upper chamber 2402 is as large as it can be and the lower chamber 2404 is as small as it can be. The pistons are held in an upward position, with the lower piston 2504 positioned urged against a retaining surface 2530 to stop the piston rod 2202 from moving any further in the upward direction. The piston rod 2202 is prevented from moving any further in a downward direction by a series of one-way valves, preferably comprising a plurality of balance rings and orifices, which prevent the hydraulic fluid in the upper chamber 2402 from moving into the lower chamber 2404.

[0168] With reference to Fig.25, the upper chamber 2402 includes an upper opening 2520 and the lower chamber 2404 includes a lower opening 2524. The inner sleeve 2204 also includes a central opening 2522 leading to a passage 2420 between the upper and lower chambers 2402, 2404. The passage 2420 is sealed from the upper chamber 2402 and the lower chamber 2404 by an upper balance ring 2416 and a lower balance ring 2418. The balance rings act as one-way valves, allowing hydraulic fluid from the passage 2420 to pass into either the upper chamber 2402 or the lower chamber 2404, but preventing the hydraulic fluid from flowing back into the passage 2420 beyond the balance rings.It should be noted that although the balance rings in this embodiment are used as one-way valves, various other mechanisms for preventing fluid flow in one direction while allowing fluid flow in another direction may be used. Furthermore, although the descriptions with respect to the . Fig. 24-31 describe fluid flow with reference to a single upper, middle, and lower opening, there are a plurality of openings extending around the inner sleeve 2204 in the illustrated embodiment. The cross-section of these figures is taken through only one set of these openings, and the description refers to only one set of these openings for simplicity.

[0169] With further reference to Fig. 25, the hydraulic fluid within the upper chamber 2402 prevents the piston rod 2202 from lowering to a lower position when the saddle receiving part 19510 is in the upper or raised position and the actuating extension piece 2302, and more specifically the actuating surface 2430 of the actuating extension piece 2302, has not come into contact with a connecting actuating surface of the clamping ring. A hydraulic fluid is in the Fig. 25-31 are indicated by shading. As shown in Fig. 25, the hydraulic fluid in the upper chamber 2402 cannot flow into the passage 2420 because the upper balance ring 2416 prevents the fluid from moving into the passage 2420. Furthermore, although the hydraulic fluid can exit the upper chamber 2402 through the upper opening 2420, the two upper O-rings 2208 of the outer sleeve 2206 prevent the hydraulic fluid from moving beyond either of these O-rings 2208. Accordingly, the piston rod 2202 is held in the raised position.

[0170] Fig. 26 illustrates the beginning of a movement of the saddle receiving part 19510 into a lowered position. In this case, the upper carrier 320 has been pushed down into a lowered position within the lower carrier 310. The actuating surface 2430 of the outer sleeve 2206 has come into contact with a connecting surface of the clamping ring 2220. This has caused the outer sleeve 2206 to move upwardly with respect to the inner sleeve 2204. During the downward movement, the spring 2210 has been compressed. The compression of the spring 2210 can allow the outer sleeve 2206 to automatically return to its lower or original position when the upper carrier 320 transitions to a raised position with respect to the lower carrier 310. As shown in Fig. 26, by raising the outer sleeve 2206, the O-rings 2208 have changed position with respect to the plurality of openings. Specifically, the two upper O-rings 2208 have been raised above the upper opening 2520, allowing fluid to flow out of the upper opening 2520 and into the middle opening 2522, allowing fluid to pass over the lower balance ring 2418 and into the lower chamber 2404. Accordingly, the piston rod 2202 is no longer held in an upper or raised position. When force is applied to the rod 2202 in a downward direction, the actuating pin will move downward as long as the force exceeds the force of the spring 2012, transferring hydraulic fluid from the upper chamber 2402 to the lower chamber 2404 as it moves. Fig. Figure 27 illustrates such a movement, wherein the saddle receiving member 19510 has been moved to a lowered position and hydraulic fluid has flowed from the upper chamber 2402 into the lower fluid chamber 2404. In this case, in the lowered position, the piston rod 2202 is now held in the lowered position. The actuating pin can no longer move because the upper piston 2502 is pressed against an upper retaining surface 2730. Furthermore, the piston rod 2202 cannot move back up because the fluid cannot flow out of the lower chamber 2404. The fluid cannot flow back past the lower balance ring 2418 because the balance ring acts as a one-way valve. Furthermore, the fluid cannot flow beyond the lower two O-rings 2208, although the fluid can flow out of the lower openings 2524, effectively holding the pistons in the downward position.

[0171] In some embodiments, the amount of upward displacement required by the outer sleeve 2206 to open the fluid flow paths, allowing the piston rod 2202 to move downward, is approximately 5 mm. In other embodiments, the amount of upward displacement required for the outer sleeve 2206 to open the fluid flow paths, allowing the piston rod 2202 to move downward, is approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 mm.

[0172] It should be noted that the hydraulic arrangement disclosed herein is capable of not only holding the pistons in the fully up or fully down position, but also allows movement in only one direction. For example, in the embodiment shown in the Fig. 26 and Fig. 27, with the outer sleeve 2206 in a raised position, the pistons are able to move downward but not upward. Accordingly, if the caliper support member 19510 were pushed down only part of the way, rather than all the way to a lower position, the spring 2012 would not be able to raise the pivot arm 2002 back to the upward position because the hydraulic fluid cannot flow back from the lower chamber 2404 to the upper chamber 2402. Accordingly, the caliper support member 19510 would remain in this semi-lower position until either it is pushed further downward or the outer sleeve 2206 is lowered to a more downward position, as discussed in more detail below.In the same manner as discussed below, when the piston rod 2202 moves back up and the outer sleeve 2206 is in a lowered position, the hydraulic system prevents the piston rod 2202 from being able to move downward until the outer sleeve 2206 is raised again to an upper position.

[0173] Fig. Figure 28 is another illustration of the flow path of the hydraulic fluid when the pivot arm 2202 rotates downward to place the saddle receiver 19510 in a lowered or tilted-back position. The fluid starts in the upper chamber 2402, flows out of the upper opening 2520, down into the gap between the inner sleeve 2204 and the outer sleeve 2206, into the passage 2420, through the middle opening 2522, down past the lower balance ring 2418, and into the lower chamber 2404. As discussed above, the hydraulic fluid will then remain in the lower chamber 2404 until the outer sleeve 2206 descends to a lowered position.

[0174] The Fig. 29-31 illustrate a return of the saddle receiver 19510 to its upward or forward tilted position. This movement begins with the actuating extension piece 2302 and the outer sleeve 2206 lowering back down to their lowered position. For example, the upper bracket 320 may be raised to an elevated position relative to the lower bracket 310. This will allow the spring 2210 to urge the outer sleeve 2206 back down relative to the inner sleeve 2204. The spring 2210 moves the outer sleeve 2206 downward until it stops when it encounters the sloped wall 2902 inside the upper bracket 320. Although in this embodiment the downward movement of the outer sleeve 2206 is inhibited by connection to a sloped wall 2902, various other mechanical means may be used to inhibit the downward movement of the outer sleeve 2206.For example, the upper support 320 may include a shelf or step that mates with the mating surface of the upper sleeve 2206. In another example, the outer sleeve 2206 may mate with a pin, step, or other feature of the inner sleeve 2204, enabling a feature of the inner sleeve 2204 to restrict downward movement, rather than a feature of the upper support 320. Likewise, although in this embodiment the actuating surface 2430 contacts the collet 2220 to move the outer sleeve 2206 upward, various other embodiments may use various other methods for moving the outer sleeve 2206 upward. For example, a surface of the outer sleeve 2206 may contact a mating surface of the lower support 310. In another embodiment, the outer sleeve 2206 may be actuated using a cable, such as by manual control.

[0175] When the outer sleeve 2206 has lowered into its lowered position, the O-rings 2208 are positioned so that the lower opening 2524 is in fluid communication with the middle opening 2522. Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 30, the hydraulic fluid can flow from the lower chamber 2404 through the lower opening 2524, through the area between the inner and outer sleeves, into the middle opening 2522, through the passage 2420 and past the upper balance ring 2416 into the upper chamber 2402. Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 30, the pistons and the actuating pin can move upward within the inner sleeve 2204, allowing the pivot arm 2002 and the saddle receiving part 19510 to return to the upper, raised, or forward tilted position. Although the embodiment shown in the Fig.24-31 preferably comprises a plurality of O-rings 2208 having round cross-sectional shapes to form seals between the outer and inner sleeves. In other embodiments, other sealing means may be used to perform the functions described herein. For example, an embodiment may utilize conventionally shaped rubber or polymer seals, O-rings with cross-sectional shapes other than round, and / or the like.

[0176] An advantage of a hydraulic saddle angle adjustment mechanism is that the hydraulic mechanism also includes damping features to dampen the up and down movement of the pistons, which in turn dampens the rotation of the saddle. The amount of damping can be adjusted by various means, such as adjusting the orifice size, changing the number of orifices, selecting a different type of one-way valve, adjusting the stiffness of the balance rings used for the one-way valves in the current embodiment, using a fluid with a different viscosity, using a pressure valve that opens under a higher pressure, etc. In an embodiment where a pressure valve that opens under a higher pressure is used, this can enable variable damping. For example, ifWhen a heavy load is applied to the saddle, this compression valve can open, reducing damping and allowing the saddle to tip over more quickly. However, when a lighter load is applied to the saddle, the compression valve cannot open, allowing increased damping and slower rotation of the saddle. Also, the damping can be different in different directions. For example, a rider may want very little damping when the saddle is rotated rearward, but more damping when the saddle returns to its forward position. This can help prevent injury to a rider by preventing the saddle from 'snapping forward.'

[0177] Another advantage of the hydraulic system disclosed herein is its inherent unidirectional movement. For example, a cyclist may be in a situation where they wish to lower their seat post and tilt the saddle rearward, for example, while descending a bumpy hill. Accordingly, the rider may actuate a control unit to lower the seat post and begin to tilt the saddle rearward under their body weight. However, the rider may encounter a bump or pothole that causes the rider's body weight to be pushed up and out of the saddle while the rider is in the process of tilting the saddle rearward.If the one-way functionality of the seat rotation mechanism were not present, the spring 2012 could cause the seat to tilt upward again before the seat has tilted all the way to its rearward-facing position. In this embodiment and other embodiments involving movement in only one direction, the saddle will remain in its partially tilted position until either the rider places his or her body weight back into the saddle to continue the downward rotation, or the seat post lifts, causing the hydraulic mechanism to disengage and release the saddle to move back to its upward or forward-facing position.

[0178] Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Thus, the claims are not intended to limit the implementations shown herein, but are intended to accord the broadest scope consistent with this disclosure, the principles, and the novel features disclosed herein.In addition, a person having a normal education in this field will readily agree that the terms "upper" and "lower" are sometimes used to simplify the description of the figures and denote relative positions that correspond to the orientation of the figure on a properly oriented page and do not necessarily reflect the correct orientation of the device as implemented.

[0179] Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations may also be employed in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be employed in multiple implementations, separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as operating in certain combinations and may even be originally claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may, in some cases, be dropped from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or a variation of a subcombination.

[0180] In describing the present technology, the following terminology may be used: the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include references to a plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, reference to an item includes reference to one or more items. The term "a" refers to one, two, or more and generally concerns selection from one or all of a number. The term "plurality" refers to two or more of an item. The term "approximately" means that quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes, and other characteristics need not be exact, but may be approximated and / or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding-off, measurement errors, and the like, as well as other factors known to those skilled in the art.The term "substantially" means that the cited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, limitations of measurement accuracy, and other factors known to those skilled in the art, may occur within limits that do not prevent the effect that the characteristic was intended to provide. Numerical data may be expressed or shown in a range format.It should be understood that such a range format is used only for convenience and brevity and should therefore be flexibly interpreted to include not only the numeric values ​​explicitly stated as the boundaries of the range, but also to include all of the individual numeric values ​​or subranges encompassed within the range, just as if each numeric value and subrange were explicitly stated. For the purpose of illustration, a numeric range of "about 1 to 5" should be construed to include not only the explicitly stated values ​​from about 1 to about 5, but also to include individual values ​​and subranges within the specified range. Thus, encompassed within this numeric range are individual values ​​such as 2, 3, and 4, and subranges such as 1-3, 2-4, and 3-5, etc.This same principle applies to ranges that specify only a numerical value (e.g., "greater than approximately 1") and should apply regardless of the width of the range or the characteristics being described. A variety of items may be presented in a general list for convenience. However, this list should be constructed in such a way that it nevertheless individually identifies each item of the list as a separate and distinct item. Thus, no individual item of such a list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other item of the same list solely by virtue of its presentation in a general group, without indications to the contrary.Furthermore, when the terms "and" and "or" are used in connection with a list of items, they should be interpreted broadly so that any one or more of the listed items may be used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term "alternative" refers to the selection of one of two or more alternatives and should not be construed as limiting the selection to only the listed alternatives or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Claims

[1] A bicycle assembly (100) comprising a saddle adjuster (200), the saddle adjuster comprising: a height-adjustable seat post (300), the height-adjustable seat post comprising a first bracket (310) and a second bracket (320), the second bracket being configured to move slidably with respect to the first bracket at least between a raised position and a lowered position, the first bracket being configured to bear against a bicycle frame (110); wherein the height-adjustable seat post (300) further comprises a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the second support in a position relative to the first support in at least the raised position and the lowered position; a saddle angle adjustment mechanism (400) connected to the second support, the saddle angle adjustment mechanism comprising a rotatably connected saddle support configured to be connectable to a bicycle saddle (105); wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism (400) comprises a cam (900) movable relative to the second carrier between a locked and a released position, wherein when the cam is in the locked position, it is positioned against a surface of the saddle carrier, and wherein when the cam (900) is in the released position, the cam is positioned away from the surface of the saddle carrier, wherein the saddle angle adjustment mechanism (400) additionally comprises a movable pin (800) movable between a first position and a second position, the movable pin engaging the cam such that movement of the movable pin from the first position to the second position causes the cam to move from the locked to the released position, and wherein the first carrier includes a stop surface (314) positioned to cause movement of the movable pin from the first position to the second position when the second carrier is lowered to the lowered position. [2] The bicycle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cam is pivotable or slidable relative to the second bracket, and wherein the movable pin is pivotable or slidable relative to the second bracket. [3] The bicycle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the movable pin includes a bevel (840) that cooperates with the cam. [4] The bicycle assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied: b) the saddle angle adjustment mechanism is designed to allow rotation of the saddle support relative to the second support in a first direction when the second support is at or near the lowered position and in a second direction opposite to the first direction when the second support is not at or near the lowered position, c) wherein preferably the rotation of the saddle support in the second direction is caused by a force generated by the saddle angle adjustment mechanism and wherein the rotation of the saddle support in the first direction is caused by an external force exerted on the saddle support, or d) the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a first and a second limiting surface, wherein the first limiting surface is configured to limit the extent of rotation of the seat support in the first direction, the second limiting surface is configured to limit the extent of rotation of the seat support in the second direction; e) the saddle angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a damping mechanism which dampens the rotation of the saddle support in at least one direction, f) the locking mechanism is configured to selectively lock the second carrier in a position relative to the first carrier in addition to the raised position and the lowered position in a plurality of positions therebetween, wherein the locking mechanism preferably comprises a clamping ring (2220) mounted at least partially within an internal cavity of the second carrier, g) said saddle carrier is designed to rotate between a predetermined first rotational position and a predetermined second rotational position, h) said seat angle adjustment mechanism rotates the seat support relative to the second support when the second support moves to a lowered position relative to the first support, i) said saddle adjusting device further comprises a piston and wherein the force exerted by the piston on the saddle carrier causes the saddle carrier to rotate with respect to the second carrier. [5] The bicycle assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a control element (321) whose operation allows the height of the height-adjustable seat post to be selectively adjusted while the bicycle is in motion. [6] The bicycle assembly of claim 1, further comprising a bicycle frame (110). [7] The bicycle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the seat angle adjustment mechanism further comprises a stored energy device that rotates the seat post, preferably the stored energy device comprises at least one of the following: a mechanical spring, an air spring, a spring element. [8] A seat angle adjustment mechanism (400) for use with a height-adjustable seat post, the height-adjustable seat post comprising a first bracket (310) and a second bracket (320), the second bracket being configured to move slidably with respect to the first bracket between a raised position and a lowered position, and the first bracket being adapted to engage a bicycle frame (110), the seat angle adjustment mechanism comprising: an actuating mechanism comprising a support-contacting part, the support-contacting part being adapted to be attached to the second support of the height-adjustable seat post, and a seat support member adapted to be connected to a bicycle saddle, the seat support member being rotatably connected to the actuating mechanism; wherein the actuating mechanism is designed to enable rotation of the saddle support member in a first direction relative to the second support when the second support is in a raised position and wherein the actuating mechanism is configured to allow rotation of the saddle support member in only a second direction opposite to the first direction when the second support is in a lowered position, the actuating mechanism further comprising: a first body comprising a first cavity and a second cavity; and a second body slidably connected to the first body and at least partially surrounding the first body; wherein, when the second body is in a first position relative to the first body, a liquid in the first cavity is able to flow to the second cavity, allowing a piston connected to the saddle carrier to move in a direction that rotates the saddle carrier in the first direction, and wherein, when the second body is in a second position relative to the first body, a fluid in the second cavity is capable of flowing to the first cavity, allowing the piston to move in a direction that rotates the saddle carrier in the second direction. [9] The seat angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 8, further comprising a first limiting surface defining a maximum rotation of the seat carrier in the first direction, the seat carrier being in the first rotational position when the first limiting surface is contacted, the actuating mechanism being configured to secure the seat carrier in the first rotational position when the seat carrier is in the first rotational position and the second carrier is in the raised position. [10] The seat angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 9, further comprising a second limiting surface defining a maximum rotation of the seat carrier in the second direction, the seat carrier being in a second rotational position when the second limiting surface is contacted, the actuating mechanism being configured to secure the seat carrier in the second rotational position when the seat carrier is in the second rotational position and the second carrier is in the lowered position. [11] The saddle angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 8, wherein when the second body is in the first position with respect to the first body, a first flow path is open for a liquid, allowing the liquid in the first cavity to flow to the second cavity, and when the second body is in the second position with respect to the first body, a second flow path is open for a liquid, allowing the liquid in the second cavity to flow to the first cavity. [12] The saddle angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 8, wherein the second body includes an actuating surface configured to contact a connecting surface to cause the first body to translate with respect to the second body. [13] The seat angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 12, wherein the connecting surface is part of the height-adjustable seat post, a clamping ring used to adjust the height of the height-adjustable seat post, or a bicycle frame. [14] The seat angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 8, wherein the actuating mechanism further comprises a damper to dampen rotation of the seat support or a stored energy device to rotate the seat support in the first direction. [15] The saddle angle adjustment mechanism according to claim 14, wherein the stored energy device comprises at least one of the following: a mechanical spring, an air spring, a spring element. [16] The bicycle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the seat angle adjustment mechanism is configured to lock the seat carrier in a first rotational position when the second carrier is in the raised position and wherein the seat angle adjustment mechanism is configured to lock the seat carrier in a second rotational position when the second carrier is in the lowered position.

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