bicycle control device

Abstract

bicycle control device (10) comprising: a mounting clamp (20) designed to be attached to a bicycle tube link (H) and comprising: a first radius segment (20b) which defines a first inner radius; a second radius segment (20c) which defines a second inner radius which is different from the first inner radius; a clamp opening (20a) through which the bicycle tube section (H) is to extend, wherein the clamp opening (20a) is defined by the first radius section (20b) and the second radius section (20c); and an adapter link (22) which is designed to be provided between the second radius section (20c) and the bicycle tube link (H) in a state in which the mounting clamp (20) is / is mounted on the bicycle tube link (H).

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] The present application claims priority from US patent number US 9,174,697 B2, filed on October 7, 2013, from US patent number US 9,651,070 B2, filed on October 3, 2013, from US patent number US 9,759,243 B2, filed on May 22, 2014, and from US patent number US 9,598,139 B2, filed on July 10, 2014. The disclosures of these applications are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference. Background of the invention; Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a bicycle control device. Explanation of the background

[0004] Cycling is becoming increasingly popular as a leisure activity and a means of transportation. Moreover, cycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Regardless of whether the bicycle is used for leisure, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving various bicycle components. Bicycles are often equipped with a control device for operating a bicycle component. The control device essentially comprises a control element that is operated by the cyclist to control the bicycle component. The control device has a structure in which its position relative to a base element to which it is mounted is adjustable. This allows the control element of the control device to be positioned in a preferred location for the cyclist.

[0005] European patent application EP 2 666 705 A1 discloses a motorcycle cruise control system. The motorcycle cruise control system is designed to work in conjunction with a rotating throttle grip of a motorcycle. The motorcycle cruise control system comprises a clamping device with a stationary clamping part and a movable clamping part that is movable between a clamping position for clamping the throttle grip and holding it in a desired rotational position, and a release position that allows rotation of the throttle grip; an actuating mechanism for moving the movable clamping part between its clamping and release positions; and a holding arrangement for keeping the clamping device essentially stationary with respect to the motorcycle.

[0006] German patent application DE 10 2014 009 593 A1 discloses a bicycle control device mounting arrangement. The bicycle control device mounting arrangement is provided with a handlebar mounting clamp and an adapter link. The handlebar mounting clamp has a clamping opening which defines a first diameter. The adapter link includes a connecting section and a projecting section.

[0007] US patent application US 2011 / 0253863A1 discloses a mounting device for attaching first and second bicycle steering components to a bicycle handlebar with a handlebar axle. The mounting device comprises first and second mounting brackets. The first mounting bracket is adjustable around the handlebar axle. One of the first and second bicycle steering components is attached to the first mounting bracket. The second mounting bracket is adjustable to the first mounting bracket. The other of the first and second bicycle steering components is attached to the second mounting bracket. Overview of the invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle control device comprises a mounting clamp and an adapter element. The mounting clamp is configured to be mounted on a bicycle tube section and comprises a first radius section, a second radius section, and a clamp opening. The first radius section defines a first inner radius. The second radius section defines a second inner radius, which differs from the first inner radius. The bicycle tube section is intended to extend through the clamp opening. The clamp opening is defined by the first radius section and the second radius section. The adapter element is configured to be positioned between the second radius section and the bicycle tube section in a state in which the mounting clamp is mounted on the bicycle tube section.

[0009] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the adapter element includes a connector section which extends in a circumferential direction of the second radius section.

[0010] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the connector section has a semicircular cylindrical shape.

[0011] Preferably, the bicycle control device further comprises a restrictive structure which is provided on the second radius section and is designed to restrict a relative movement between the second radius section and the adapter member at least in one circumferential direction of the second radius section.

[0012] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the second radius segment encloses an inner peripheral surface which defines the second inner radius. The restricting structure can include a restricting part which is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the second radius segment and can be designed to restrict the relative movement between the second radius segment and the adapter element, at least in the circumferential direction.

[0013] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the restrictive part includes a recess provided on the inner peripheral surface of the second radius section. The adapter element can include a connector section and a projection. The connector section can extend in the circumferential direction. The projection can extend radially outward from the connector section and can be designed to be provided in the recess.

[0014] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the restricting structure is designed to restrict the relative movement between the second radius section and the adapter member in an axial direction which is defined along a longitudinal central axis of the bicycle tube member.

[0015] Preferably, the bicycle control device further comprises a control unit designed to operate a bicycle component. The mounting clamp can be designed to detachably couple the control unit to the bicycle tube section. The second radius section can be located closer to the control unit than the first radius section.

[0016] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the adapter element is located closer to the control unit than the first radius section in a state in which the adapter element is provided between the second radius section and the bicycle tube element.

[0017] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the second inner radius is larger than the first inner radius.

[0018] Preferably, the bicycle control device further comprises an additional control unit designed to operate an additional bicycle component. The additional control unit may include a first section. The adapter link may include a second section designed to be connected to the first section.

[0019] Preferably, the bicycle control device further comprises a positioning structure which is designed to adjustably position the first section in relation to the second section in a first direction and in a second direction which is different from the first direction.

[0020] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the positioning structure includes a stop element and a fixing element. The stop element can be arranged opposite the first section with respect to the second section. The fixing element can be designed to fix the second section with respect to the first section by sandwiching the second section between the first section and the stop element.

[0021] Preferably, the bicycle control device is designed such that the adapter link projects from the mounting clamp in a state in which the adapter link is positioned between the second radius section and the bicycle tube link. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of its expected advantages will be achieved in a simple way by better understanding it with reference to the following detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a bicycle control device according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 A perspective exploded view of a bicycle control device, as shown in Fig. 1, is; Fig. 3 A perspective view of a control unit and an adapter element of the bicycle control device, as shown in Fig. 1 is; Fig. 4 A perspective view of a control unit and an adapter element of the bicycle control device, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, is; Fig. 5 A perspective exploded view of the control unit, the adapter element and a positioning structure of the bicycle control device, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, is; Fig. 6 A perspective exploded view of the control unit, adapter element and positioning structure of the bicycle control device, as shown in Fig. 1 is; Fig. 7 a perspective exploded view of a first section of the control unit, as Fig. 6 shown, is; Fig. 8 a partial cross-sectional view of the control unit along line VIII-VIII in Fig. 4 is; Fig. 9 a partial cross-sectional view of the control unit along line IX-IX in Fig. 3 is; Fig. 10. A top view of the control unit, as shown in Fig. 3 shown, is; Fig. 11 is a perspective exploded view of a bicycle control device according to a second embodiment; Fig. 12 a perspective view of a control unit and an adapter element of the bicycle control device, as in Fig. 11 is shown; and Fig. 13 a perspective exploded view of the control unit and the adapter element, as in Fig. 12 is shown. DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0023] The embodiments are now described with reference to the accompanying drawings, where the same reference numerals denote corresponding or identical elements in the different drawings. First embodiment

[0024] Initially referring to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is a bicycle control device 10 according to a first embodiment designed for attachment to a bicycle tube member H of a bicycle for operating bicycle components. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle control device 10 is designed for operating a bicycle gear-shifting component B1, such as a derailleur or an internal hub gear. The bicycle control device 10 is further designed for operating a bicycle brake component B2, such as a bicycle rim brake or a bicycle disc brake. The bicycle tube member H is, for example, a bicycle handlebar with a tubular shape. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the bicycle control device 10 can be designed for attachment to a tubular part of a bicycle frame instead of to the bicycle handlebar.The bicycle control device 10 is a right-hand bicycle control device, designed for operation by the right hand of a cyclist. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the field of bicycles from the present disclosure that the design of the bicycle control device 10 can be applied to a left-hand bicycle control device.

[0025] In the present application, the following directional terms “front”, “back”, “forward”, “backward”, “left”, “right”, “across”, “upward”, and “downward”, as well as any similar directional terms, refer to directions determined by a cyclist sitting on a saddle (not shown) of the bicycle with their face turned, for example, towards the bicycle frame member H. Accordingly, these terms, as used to describe the bicycle control device 10, are to be understood in relation to the bicycle being used in an upright position on a horizontal surface.

[0026] As in Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the bicycle control device 10 comprises a control unit 14, an additional control unit 12, a mounting element 16, and a positioning structure 18. The additional control unit 12 is designed to operate an additional bicycle component, such as the bicycle gear shifting component B1. In the illustrated embodiment, the additional control unit 12 comprises a shift control unit designed to operate the bicycle gear shifting component B1. The additional control unit 12 is operatively coupled to the bicycle gear shifting component B1 by means of a control cable B11, such as a Bowden cable, which essentially encloses an inner wire or core that is slidably received within an outer sheath. The bicycle gear shifting component B1 is a conventional bicycle derailleur or an internal transmission device designed to change speeds.Revolutions of a bicycle drivetrain (not shown). The bicycle gearshift component B1 will therefore not be shown or described. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the additional control unit 12 can be used to operate other types of bicycle components (e.g., suspension devices), as required and / or desired. Moreover, the additional control unit 12 can be operatively coupled to the bicycle gearshift component B1 by means of an electrical cable or by means of wireless technology. In such an embodiment, the additional control unit 12 includes an electrical controller, and the bicycle gearshift component B1 includes an actuator configured to be controlled by, for example, the electrical controller of the additional control unit 12.

[0027] The control unit 14 is designed to operate a bicycle component, such as the bicycle brake component B2, and is designed to be attached to the mounting element 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 14 comprises a brake control unit designed to operate the bicycle brake component B2. The control unit 14 includes a main body 14a and a brake lever 14b. The brake lever 14b is designed to be pivotable relative to the main body 14a. The main body 14a has a master cylinder and a piston to generate hydraulic pressure as a result of a pivoting movement of the brake lever 14b. The control unit 14 is operatively coupled to the bicycle brake component B2 by means of a hydraulic hose B21.While the control unit 14 is a hydraulic brake control unit, it will be clear to those skilled in the field of bicycles from the present disclosure that the control unit 14 can be a different type of bicycle brake unit. Since the control unit 14 includes well-known structures, they are not described in detail here. Moreover, the bicycle brake component B2 is part of a conventional bicycle drive system. The bicycle brake component B2 is therefore not described in detail here. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the field of bicycles from the present disclosure that the control unit 14 can be used to operate other types of bicycle components (e.g., suspension devices), as required and / or desired. The additional control unit 12 and the control unit 14 are designed for attachment to the bicycle tube member H by means of the mounting member 16.

[0028] As in the Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the mounting element 16 is designed to be mounted on the bicycle tube section H and includes a mounting clamp 20 and an adapter element 22. Specifically, the bicycle control device 10 includes the mounting clamp 20. The mounting clamp 20 is designed to be mounted on the bicycle tube section H. The mounting clamp 20 is designed to clamp the bicycle tube section H. The mounting clamp 20 includes a clamp opening 20a through which the bicycle tube section H extends. The mounting clamp 20 is designed to couple the control unit 14 to the bicycle tube section H. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting clamp 20 is integrally or integrally formed with the main body 14a of the control unit 14. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the mounting clamp 20 can be a separate element from the control unit 14.The mounting clamp 20 is designed to detachably couple the control unit 14 to the bicycle tube member H. The mounting clamp 20 is designed to be tightened with a clamping bolt 21 to detachably couple the control unit 14 to the bicycle tube member H. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting clamp 20 is provided as a single, integral, one-piece component. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the mounting clamp 20 can also include separate components.

[0029] The mounting clamp 20 comprises a first radius section 20b and a second radius section 20c. The first radius section 20b defines a first inner radius. The second radius section 20c defines a second inner radius, which differs from the first inner radius. In the illustrated embodiment, the second inner radius is larger than the first inner radius. The mounting clamp 20 has a section with an elongated diameter in the clamp opening 20a, which forms the second radius section 20c. The clamp opening 20a is defined by the first radius section 20b and the second radius section 20c. The second radius section 20c encloses an inner peripheral surface 20d, which defines the second inner radius. In the illustrated embodiment, the second radius section 20c is located closer to the control unit 14 than the first radius section 20b.

[0030] As in the Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the adapter link 22 is designed to be attached to the mounting bracket 20. As shown in the Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the adapter link 22 is designed to be positioned between the second radius section 20c and the bicycle tube section H in a state where the mounting clamp 20 is / is mounted on the bicycle tube section H. The adapter link 22 is located closer to the control unit 14 than the first radius section 20b in a state where the adapter link 22 is / is positioned between the second radius section 20c and the bicycle tube section H. The adapter link 22 extends from the mounting clamp 20 in a state where the adapter link 22 is / is positioned between the second radius section 20c and the bicycle tube section H.

[0031] As in the Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the adapter element 22 includes a connector section 22a, which is designed to be detachably arranged within the clamp opening 20a. The connector section 22a extends in the circumferential direction D2 of the second radius section 20c. The connector section 22a has a semicircular cylindrical shape. The mounting clamp 20 and the connector section 22a define a cylindrical section through which the bicycle tube H is to extend. As shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the connector section 22a is arranged on the second radius section 20c (the section with an elongated diameter) such that the connector section 22a clamps the bicycle tube link H together with the mounting clamp 20 in a state in which the mounting clamp 20 is / is tightened with the clamping bolt 21.

[0032] The bicycle control device 10 further comprises a restrictive structure 23, which is provided / is provided on the second radius section 20c. The restrictive structure 23 is configured to restrict relative movement between the second radius section 20c and the adapter member 22 in at least one circumferential direction D2 of the second radius section 20c. In the illustrated embodiment, the restrictive structure 23 is configured to restrict relative movement between the second radius section 20c and the adapter member 22 in an axial direction D1, which is / is defined along a longitudinal central axis X of the bicycle tube member H.

[0033] The restrictive structure 23 includes a restrictive part 23a, which is provided on the inner peripheral surface 20d of the second radius segment 20c. The restrictive part 23a is designed to restrict the relative movement between the second radius segment 20c and the adapter member 22, at least in the circumferential direction D2. For example, the restrictive part 23a includes a recess, which is provided on the inner peripheral surface 20d of the second radius segment 20c.

[0034] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the adapter member 22 includes a projection 22b, which extends radially outwards from the connector section 22a. The projection 22b is designed to be provided in the recess (the restricting part 23) (see the Fig. 2), which is provided on the second radius section 20c (the section with the elongated diameter) of the mounting bracket 20. The projection 22b and the restrictive part 23a (the recess) prevent the adapter link from moving relative to the mounting bracket 20 in a state in which the connector section 22a is sandwiched between the mounting bracket 20 and the bicycle tube link H. In particular, the adapter link 22 is designed to be stationary relative to the control unit 14 and the mounting bracket 20.

[0035] With reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The bicycle control device 10 is designed such that the position of the additional control unit 12 is adjustable relative to the control unit 14, the mounting bracket 20, and the adapter link 22 in a first direction (the axial direction D1) and in a second direction (the circumferential direction D2). In the present application, the axial direction D1 of the bicycle tube link H is also referred to as the first direction D1, and the circumferential direction D2 is also referred to as the second direction D2. The additional control unit 12 is designed to be connected to the adapter link 22 by means of the positioning structure 18 such that the position of the additional control unit 12 is adjustable relative to the control unit 14, the mounting bracket 20, and the adapter link 22 in the first direction D1 and in the second direction D2.In the illustrated embodiment, the first direction D1 is parallel to an axial direction of the bicycle tube section H. The bicycle tube section H has a longitudinal central axis X. The first direction D1 (i.e., the axial direction of the bicycle tube section H) is defined along the longitudinal central axis X. The bicycle tube section H extends in the first direction D1. The second direction D2 differs from the first direction D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the second direction D2 is parallel to a circumferential direction of the bicycle tube section H. The second direction D2 is defined around the longitudinal central axis X of the bicycle tube section H.

[0036] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the additional control unit 12 includes a housing 24, a first section 26, a first control element 28, and a second control element 30. The housing 24 includes a first housing element 32 and a second housing element 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing 32 is an upper housing, and the second housing element 34 is a lower housing, which is arranged below the first housing element 32. The first housing element 32 and the second housing element 34 define an internal space in which a cable actuation mechanism (see below) is provided. The first section 26 is provided on the housing 24 and projects from the housing 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the first section 26 is provided on the first housing element 32 and projects from the first housing element 32. The first control element 28 is designed to be pivotable relative to the housing 24.The second control element 30 is designed to be pivotable relative to the housing 24. The first control element 28 and the second control element 30 are designed to be operated by a cyclist for changing gears.

[0037] As in Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the assembly member 16 includes a second section 36. As shown in Figure 2. Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, in the illustrated embodiment, the second section 36 is provided on the adapter member 22. Specifically, the adapter member 22 includes the second section 36. The adapter member 22 and the second section 36 are made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a resin or a metallic material. In the illustrated embodiment, the adapter member is a separate member from the mounting bracket 20. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the adapter member can be integrally or integrally formed with the mounting bracket 20 as a single, unified member. Specifically, the mounting member 16 can be integrally or integrally formed as a single, unified member. The second section 36 can be integrally or integrally formed with the mounting bracket 20 as a single, unified member. As shown in Figure 4, the adapter member 22 and the second section 36 can be integrally or integrally formed with the mounting bracket 20 as a single, unified member. Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the second section 36 extends from the connecting section 22a, projecting from the clamp opening 20a. The second section 36 projects from the clamp opening 20a along the bicycle tube section H in a state in which the mounting clamp 20 couples the adapter section 22 to the bicycle tube section H.

[0038] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the second section 36 is designed to be connected to the first section 26 of the additional control unit 12. In particular, the second section 36 is designed to be connected to the first section 26 by means of the positioning structure 18 such that the position of the additional control unit 12 relative to the control unit 14 and the mounting bracket 20 is adjustable in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0039] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the positioning structure 18 is designed to adjustably position the first section 26 relative to the second section 36 in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. The positioning structure 18 includes a stop element 38, a fixing element 40, and a washer 42. The stop element 38 is arranged opposite the first section 26 relative to the second section 36. The fixing element 40 is designed to fix the second section 36 relative to the first section 26 by surrounding or enclosing the second section 36 between the first section 26 and the stop element 38. The washer 42 is designed to be positioned between the first section 26 and the fixing element 40.

[0040] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the first section 26 has a first elongated hole 26a extending in the first direction D1 and a first recess 26b in which the first elongated hole 26a is provided. The second section 36 has a second elongated hole 36a extending in the second direction D2. The first elongated hole 26a and the second elongated hole 36a are through holes through which the fixing element 40 is to extend. As shown in Figure 6, the first elongated hole 26a and the second elongated hole 36a are through holes through which the fixing element 40 is to extend. Fig. 5 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the first section 26 has a first sliding surface 26c, which extends in the first and second directions D1 and D2. The second section 36 has a second sliding surface 36b, which extends in the first and second directions D1 and D2. The first and second sliding surfaces 26c and 36b have correspondingly curved shapes along the second direction D2 relative to each other, such that the first and second sliding surfaces 26c and 36b can glidingly contact each other.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the first section 26 includes a projecting section 44 and a support member 46. The projecting section 44 extends from the first housing member 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the projecting section 44 is integral with the first housing member 32. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the projecting section 44 can be a separate member from the first housing member 32. The projecting section 44 and the first housing member 32 are made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a resin or a metallic material.

[0042] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the first elongated hole 26a is provided on the support member 46. The support member 46 is made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a resin or a metallic material. The support member 46 is a separate member from the projecting section 44. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the support member 46 can be integrally formed with the projecting section 44 as a single, unified member.

[0043] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the support member 46 includes a first support section 46a and a second support section 46b. The first elongated hole 26a is provided in the first support section 46a. The first housing member 32 includes a slot 32a, which extends in the first direction D1. The first support section 46a is designed to extend through the slot 32a such that the first elongated hole 26a is provided outside the first housing member 32. The projecting section 44 has a third elongated hole 44a, which extends in the first direction D1. The third elongated hole 44a and the first support section 46a provide the first recess 26b, which extends in the first direction D1. Fig. 5).

[0044] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the second section 36 has a second recess 36c in which the second elongated hole 36a is provided. The second recess 36c extends in the second direction D2. In particular, the second section 36 includes a base section 36d, a first wall section 36e, a second wall section 36f, and a third wall section 36g. The base section 36d has a curved shape along the second direction D2. The second elongated hole 36a is provided in the base section 36d. The base section 36d includes a stop surface 36h, which is designed to engage in sliding contact with the stop member 38.

[0045] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the first wall section 36e is provided at the base section 36d and projects forward from the base section 36d. The first wall section 36e extends along the second direction D2. The second wall section 36f is provided at the base section 36d and projects forward from the base section 36d. The second wall section 36f extends along the second direction D2. The second wall section 36f is spaced from the first wall section 36e in the first direction D1. The stop element 38 is provided between the first wall section 36e and the second wall section 36f in the first direction D1. The third wall section 36g is provided at the base section 36d and projects forward from the base section 36d. The third wall section 36g connects an upper end of the first wall section 36e to an upper end of the second wall section 36f.The base section 36d, the first wall section 36e, the second wall section 36f and the third wall section 36g define the second recess 36c.

[0046] As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the fixing element 40 is configured to pass through the first elongated hole 26a of the first section 26 such that the first section 26 is movable in the first direction D1 with respect to the fixing element 40. Furthermore, the fixing element 40 is configured to pass through the second elongated hole 36a of the second section 36 such that the second section 36 is movable in the second direction D2 with respect to the fixing element 40. The fixing element 40 has a head section 40a and a shaft section 40b. The shaft section 40b extends from the head section 40a and has at least one threaded part. In this embodiment, the shaft section 40b comprises a first threaded part 40c, a second threaded part 40d, and an intermediate part 40e. The intermediate part 40e is arranged between the first threaded part 40c and the second threaded part 40d.

[0047] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the stop element 38 has a threaded hole 38a into which the shaft section 40b is screwed. Specifically, the stop element 38 comprises a stop section 38b, an insertion section 38c, and an additional hole 38d. While the stop element 38 is provided integrally, i.e., as a single piece, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the stop section 38b can be a separate element from the insertion section 38c. In the illustrated embodiment, the stop element 38 is made of a hard and / or rigid material, such as a resin or a metallic material. The stop section 38b is designed to abut against the second section 36. In particular, the stop section 38b is arranged at the second recess 36c such that it slidably contacts the stop surface 36h of the second section 36.The insertion section 38c projects from the stop section 38b. The insertion section 38c is designed to be inserted into the first recess 26b. The first recess 26b and the insertion section 38c are designed to position the stop element 38 relative to the first section 26, except in the first direction D1. Furthermore, the insertion section 38c is designed to be inserted into the second elongated hole 36a. The second elongated hole 36a and the insertion section 38c are designed to position the stop element 38 relative to the second section 36, except in the second direction D2. In other words, the first section 26 and the stop element 38 are designed to essentially prevent any relative movement between them, except in the first direction D1.The second section 36 and the stop element 38 are designed to essentially prevent any relative movement between them, except in the second direction D2.

[0048] As in Fig. 8 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, in a state in which the fixing element 40 is tightened, the insertion section 38c of the stop element 38 is provided in the first recess 26b (the third elongated hole 44a) and the second elongated hole 36a. A space S1 ( Fig. 9) is provided between the insertion section 38c and the first recess 26b of the first section 26 to achieve relative adjustability between the impact member 38 and the first section 26 in the first direction D1. A space S2 ( Fig. 8) is provided between the insertion section 38c and the second elongated hole 36a of the second section 36 to achieve a relative adjustability between the stop member 38 and the second section 26 in the second direction D2.

[0049] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the additional hole 38d is aligned with the threaded hole 38a and has an inner diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the threaded hole 38a. The fixing element 40 extends through the threaded hole 38a and the additional hole 38d in a state in which the second section 36 is coupled to the first section 26 by means of the fixing element 40. In particular, the second threaded part 40d is screwed into the threaded hole 38a in a state in which the second section 36 is fixed with respect to the first section 26.

[0050] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the first threaded part 40c has a first diameter L11. The first diameter L11 is a maximum outer diameter of the first threaded part 40c. The second threaded part 40d has a second diameter L12, which is equal to the first diameter L11. The second diameter L12 is a maximum outer diameter of the second threaded part 40d. The second threaded part 40d is arranged between the first threaded part 40c and the head section 40a. The intermediate part 40e has a third diameter L13, which is smaller than both the first diameter L11 and the second diameter L12. The third diameter L13 is a maximum outer diameter of the intermediate part 40e. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate part 40e has no thread.In the illustrated embodiment, a length L16 of the intermediate part 40e of the fixing member 40 is essentially equal to a length L17 of the threaded hole 38a of the stop member 38.

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the fixing element 40 includes a larger diameter section 40f, which is provided between the head section 40a and the second threaded part 40d of the shaft section 40b. The larger diameter section 40f has a fourth diameter L14. The head section 40a has a fifth diameter L15. The fourth diameter L14 is larger than the first diameter L11, the second diameter L12, and the third diameter L13. The fifth diameter L15 is larger than the fourth diameter L14. The larger diameter section 40f is configured to be guided by the first section 26. In particular, the larger diameter section 40f is provided in the first elongated hole 26a and is configured to be in sliding contact with an inner circumference of the first elongated hole 26a.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the washer 42 is provided between the head section 40a and the first section 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the washer 42 is inserted between, surrounded by, or enclosed by the head section 40a and the first support section 46a of the support member 46 of the first section 26 in a state in which the second section 36 is fixed relative to the first section 26. The washer 42 and the first support section 46a are inserted between, surrounded by, or enclosed by the head section 40a and the projecting section 44 of the first section 26 in a state in which the second section 36 is fixed relative to the first section 26. The washer 42 can be omitted if required and / or desired.

[0053] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the insertion section 38c of the stop section 38 is provided in the second elongated hole 36a and the third elongated hole 44a. The stop section 38b of the stop element 38 is designed to be provided in the second recess 36c and is designed to be in sliding contact with the stop surface 36h. The stop section 38b has a first length L21, which is greater than a second length L22 of the second elongated hole 36a in the first direction D1. The insertion section 38c is designed to be in sliding contact with the second elongated hole 36a. The first length L21 of the stop section 38b is less than a distance L23 between the first wall section 36e and the second wall section 36f in the first direction D1.

[0054] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, in a state where the fixing element 40 of the positioning structure 18 is tightened, the washer 42, the first section 26 (i.e., the projecting section 44 and the support element 46), and the second section 36 are inserted between, surrounded, or enclosed by the head section 44a of the fixing element 40 and the stop section 38b of the stop element 38. This causes the first section 26 and the additional operating unit 12 to be fixed relative to the adapter element 22, the mounting bracket 20, and the operating unit 14. In a state where the fixing element 40 is loosened, the first section 26 and the additional operating unit 12 are movable relative to the adapter element 22, the mounting bracket 20, and the operating unit 14 in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.The positioning structure 18 therefore allows the position of the additional control unit 12 to be adjusted relative to the control unit 14 in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. This allows the additional control unit 12 to be positioned at a preferred position of the cyclist.

[0055] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the first control element 28 of the additional control unit 12 is designed to pivot between a first rest position P11 and a first operating position P12, as well as between the first rest position P11 and a second operating position P13. The first control element 28 is designed to return from the first operating position P12 to the first rest position P11 after being operated from the first rest position P11 to the first operating position P12. The first control element 28 is further designed to return from the second operating position P13 to the first rest position P11 after being operated from the first rest position P11 to the second operating position P13. Specifically, the first control element 28 is a trigger-type lever that is biased towards the first rest position P11 with respect to the housing 24.For example, the first operating element 28 is pre-tensioned by means of a first return spring (not shown) towards the first rest position P11 with respect to the housing 24.

[0056] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the first operating position P12 is located on the side opposite the second operating position P13 with respect to the first rest position P11. The first operating element 28 is pivotable about a first pivot axis A1 with respect to the housing 24. The first operating element 28 is designed to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 with respect to the housing 24 from the first rest position P11 in both a first operating direction D11 and a second operating direction D12. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the first operating element 28 can be designed to be operated in only one of the first operating directions D11 and the second operating direction D12, if required and / or desired. In such an embodiment, one of the first operating positions P12 and P13 can be omitted.The second operating direction D12 is defined to be opposite to the first operating direction D11 around the first pivot axis A1.

[0057] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the second control element 30 is designed to pivot between a second rest position P21 and a second operating position P22. The second control element 30 is designed to return from the second operating position P22 to the second rest position P21 after the first control element 30 has been operated from the second rest position P21 to the second operating position P22. Specifically, the second control element 30 is a trigger-type lever that is biased towards the second rest position P21 with respect to the housing 24. For example, the second control element 30 is biased towards the second rest position P21 with respect to the housing 24 by means of a second return spring (not shown). The second control element 30 is pivotally designed about a second pivot axis A2 with respect to the housing 24.In the illustrated embodiment, the second control element 30 is configured to pivot about the second pivot axis A2 with respect to the housing 24 from the second rest position P21 exclusively in a third operating direction D13. However, it will be clear to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the second control element 30 can be configured to be operated both in the third operating direction D13 and in a direction opposite to the third operating direction D13. The third operating direction D13 is defined about the second pivot axis A2. The second pivot axis A2 is parallel to the first pivot axis A1, but offset from the first pivot axis A1.

[0058] In the present application, the term "rest position," as used here, means a position in which a movable part (e.g., the first control element 28 and the second control element 30) remains stationary in a state in which the movable part is not being operated by the cyclist. The term "operating position," as used here, means a position in which the movable part has been operated by the cyclist in order to operate the bicycle component, such as the bicycle gear-shifting component B1.

[0059] While the additional control unit 12 includes the first control element 28 and the second control element 30, it will be clear to those skilled in the art in the field of bicycles from the present disclosure that one of the first control element 28 and the second control element 30 can be omitted if required and / or desired.

[0060] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, a cable receptacle (not shown) of the additional control unit 12 is designed to be rotatable in a receptacle direction as a result of the pivoting movement of the second control unit 30. The cable receptacle is further designed to be rotatable in a release direction opposite to the receptacle direction as a result of the pivoting movement of the first control unit 28. Since such a cable control mechanism is known in the field of bicycles, it will not be described in further detail here for the sake of brevity. Second embodiment

[0061] A bicycle control device 210 according to the second embodiment is now described with reference to the Fig. Sections 11 to 13 are described. Elements that have essentially the same function as those in the first embodiment are referred to by the same numbers or reference numerals, and these elements will not be described again in detail.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the bicycle control device 210 comprises a control unit 212, the control unit 14, a mounting element 216, and a positioning structure 218. The control unit 212 is designed to operate a bicycle component, such as a bicycle gear shifting component B1. The mounting element 216 is designed to be mounted on the bicycle tube section H. The mounting element 216 includes the mounting clamp 20 and an adapter element 222. The adapter element 222 is designed to be attached to the mounting clamp 20. The positioning structure 218 is designed such that the position of the control unit 212 is adjustable relative to the bicycle tube section H in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0063] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the operating unit 212 includes a first section 226, the first operating element 28, and the second operating element 30. The assembly element 216 includes a second section 236, which is configured to be connected to the first section 226 of the operating unit 212. The positioning structure 218 is configured to adjustably position the first section 226 relative to the second section 236 in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0064] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the positioning structure 218 comprises a stop element 238, the fixing element 40, and a washer 242. The stop element 238 is arranged opposite the first section 226 with respect to the second section 236. The second section 236 is provided on the adapter element 222. The second section 236 has an opening 236a and a recess 236b, in which the opening 236a is provided. The stop element 238 is arranged at the recess 236b. The stop element 238 encloses an elongated hole 238a, which extends in the first direction D1.

[0065] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the fixing element 40 extends through the elongated hole 238a and the opening 236a in a state in which the second section 236 is fixed relative to the first section 226. The fixing element 40 is designed to fix the second section 236 relative to the first section 226 by means of intermediate support or sandwich-like arrangement of the second section 236 between or by the first section 226 and the stop element 238.

[0066] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the first section 226 includes a mounting hole 226a which has an internal thread. The second threaded part 40d of the fixing element 40 is screwed into the mounting hole 226a in such a way that the second section 236 is fixed relative to the first section 226. The washer 242 is inserted between, enclosed within, or surrounded by the head section 40a of the fixing element 40 and the stop element 238.

[0067] As in the first embodiment, the positioning structure 218 allows the control unit 212 to be positioned relative to the control unit 14 in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. This allows the control unit 212 to be positioned at a preferred position of the cyclist.

[0068] In the embodiments described above, the terms “attached” or “fastening,” as used herein, encompass configurations in which one element is directly attached to another by fixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other element by means of one or more intermediate members; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is substantially a part of the other element. This concept also extends to words of similar meaning, such as “joined,” “connected,” “coupled,” “mounted,” “bonded,” “fixed,” and their derivatives.

[0069] The term "encompass" and its derivatives, as used here, are intended to be open-ended terms that describe the presence of the mentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unmentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning, such as "exhibit," "include," and their derivatives.

[0070] The terms “member”, “section”, “part” or “element” can have the dual meaning of a single part or a multitude of parts when used in the singular.

[0071] The ordinal numbers in terms such as "first," "second," or similar, as quoted in the present application, are solely identifiers and have no other meanings, such as indicating a specific order or the like. Moreover, the term "first element," for example, does not in itself imply the presence of a second element, and the term "second element" does not in itself imply the presence of a first element.

[0072] Finally, terms of a degree such as "essentially", "approximately" and "about" as used here signify a reasonable degree of deviation from the modified term, such that the final result is not substantially altered.

[0073] It is evident that numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It should therefore be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention can be implemented in a manner other than that described in detail herein.

Claims

[1] Bicycle control device (10) comprising: a mounting clamp (20) designed to be attached to a bicycle tube link (H) and comprising: a first radius segment (20b) which defines a first inner radius; a second radius segment (20c) which defines a second inner radius which is different from the first inner radius; a clamp opening (20a) through which the bicycle tube section (H) is to extend, wherein the clamp opening (20a) is defined by the first radius section (20b) and the second radius section (20c); and an adapter link (22) which is designed to be provided between the second radius section (20c) and the bicycle tube link (H) in a state in which the mounting clamp (20) is / is mounted on the bicycle tube link (H). [2] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the adapter member (22) includes a connector section (22a) which extends in a circumferential direction (D2) of the second radius section (20c), wherein in particular the connector section (22a) has a semicircular cylindrical shape. [3] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further including: a restrictive structure (23) which is provided and designed on the second radius section (20c) to restrict a relative movement between the second radius section (20c) and the adapter member (22) at least in one circumferential direction (D2) of the second radius section (20c). [4] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 3, wherein the second radius section (20c) includes an inner peripheral surface (20d) which defines the second inner radius, and the restricting structure (23) includes a restricting part (23a) which is provided on the inner peripheral surface (20d) of the second radius section (20c) and is configured to restrict the relative movement between the second radius section (20c) and the adapter member (22) at least in the circumferential direction (D2). [5] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the restricting part (23a) includes a recess which is provided on the inner peripheral surface (20d) of the second radius section (20c), and the adapter member (22) includes a connector section (22a) which extends in the circumferential direction (D2) and a projection (22b) which projects radially outwards from the connector section (22a) and is designed to be provided in the recess. [6] Bicycle control device (10) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the restricting structure (23) is configured to restrict the relative movement between the second radius section (20c) and the adapter member (22) in an axial direction (D1) which is defined along a longitudinal central axis of the bicycle tube member (H). [7] Bicycle control device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: a control unit (14) which is designed to operate a bicycle component, wherein the mounting clamp (20) is designed to detachably couple the control unit (14) to the bicycle tube member (H), and the second radius section (20c) is located closer to the control unit (14) than the first radius section (20b). [8] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 7, wherein the adapter member (22) is located closer to the control unit (14) than the first radius section (20b) in a state in which the adapter member (22) is provided between the second radius section (20c) and the bicycle tube member (H); and / or wherein the second inner radius is larger than the first inner radius. [9] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising: an additional control unit (12; 212) which is designed to operate an additional bicycle component, wherein the additional control unit (12; 212) includes a first section (26; 226), and the adapter element (22) includes a second section (36; 236) which is designed to be connected to the first section (26; 226). [10] Bicycle control device (10) according to claim 9, further comprising: a positioning structure (18) which is designed to adjustably position the first section (26; 226) in relation to the second section (36; 236) in a first direction and in a second direction which is different from the first direction. [11] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 10, wherein the positioning structure (18) includes a stop member (38) which is arranged opposite the first section (26; 226) in relation to the second section (36; 236), and a fixing member (40) which is configured to fix the second section (36; 236) in relation to the first section (26; 226) by sandwiching the second section (36; 236) between the first section (26; 226) and the stop member (38). [12] Bicycle control device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the adapter member (22) projects from the mounting clamp (20) in a state in which the adapter member (22) is provided between the second radius section (20c) and the bicycle tube member (H).

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