front derailleur

Abstract

Front derailleur (12), comprising: a base element (40) designed for attachment to a bicycle frame (14); a movable element (42) which is designed to be movable relative to the base element (40) between a retracted position (P1) and an extended position (P2), in which the movable element (42) is further away from the base element (40) than in the retracted position (P1); a connecting element (44) designed for movably coupling the movable element (42) to the base element (40); wherein the connecting element (44) is configured to move in a forward-backward direction (D4) of the bicycle frame (14) when the movable element (42) moves between the retracted position (P1) and the extended position (P2), and wherein the connecting element (44) includes a cable attachment section (65) for attaching an actuating cable (32), and the cable attachment section (65) is configured to be pulled over the actuating cable (32) in a forward direction (D41) of the bicycle frame 14, which is a direction of the forward-backward direction (D4); and a Pre-tensioning mechanism (48) designed to pre-tension the connecting element (44) so ​​that the movable element (42) is arranged either in the retracted position (P1) or the extended position (P2), wherein the pre-tensioning mechanism (48) comprises: a prestressing element (64) having a first end section (64b); and an intermediate element (66) which is provided separately from the movable element (42) and the connecting element (44) in such a way that a prestressing force of the prestressing element (64) is transferred from the first end section (64b) through the intermediate element (66) to the connecting element (44).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a derailleur.

[0002] Cycling is becoming an increasingly important form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover, cycling has become an extremely popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether a bicycle is used for recreation, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving its various components. One component that has recently been redesigned is the derailleur. The derailleur moves the bicycle chain laterally to change the bicycle's gears. A front derailleur is known as a front derailleur, and a rear derailleur is known as a rear derailleur.

[0003] From DE 601 13 757 T2, a derailleur is known comprising a base element for mounting on a bicycle frame, a movable element designed to move relative to the base element between a retracted position and an extended position, and a connecting element designed for movably coupling the movable element to the base element. The derailleur further comprises a preload mechanism having a preload element (return spring) with a first end section. The preload mechanism further comprises an intermediate element (actuating arm) that is provided separately from the movable element and the connecting element. The preload force of the preload element is transmitted from its first end section through the intermediate element (actuating arm) to a pawl axle, a pawl, and a positioning ratchet wheel.

[0004] Furthermore, EP 0 042 274 A2 discloses a derailleur comprising a base element, a movable derailleur shifting element, a connecting element, and a pre-tensioning mechanism. The base element is designed for attachment to a bicycle frame. The movable derailleur shifting element is designed to be movable relative to the base element between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the movable derailleur shifting element is further away from the base element than in the retracted position. The connecting element is designed for movably coupling the movable derailleur shifting element to the base element. The connecting element is designed to move obliquely with respect to the direction of extension of the bicycle frame when the movable derailleur shifting element moves between the retracted and extended positions.The connecting element includes a cable attachment section for attaching an actuating cable, wherein the cable attachment section can be pulled over the actuating cable in a direction oblique to the extension direction of the bicycle frame. The pretensioning mechanism is designed to pretension the connecting element so that the movable derailleur shifter is positioned in the retracted position. The pretensioning mechanism comprises a pretensioning element with a first end section. Furthermore, a fastening element for the derailleur shifter is provided, which is separate from the movable derailleur shifter and the connecting element, so that a pretensioning force of the pretensioning element is transmitted from the first end section through the fastening element to the movable derailleur shifter.

[0005] According to the present invention, the objective is to create a derailleur that has a simple and compact preloading mechanism.

[0006] This problem is solved using the features defined in claim 1 and alternatively using the features defined in claim 3.

[0007] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a derailleur comprises a base element, a movable element, a connecting element, and a preloading mechanism. The base element is designed for attachment to a bicycle frame. The movable element is designed to be movable relative to the base element between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the movable element is further away from the base element than in the retracted position. The connecting element is designed for movably coupling the movable element to the base element.The connecting element is designed to move in a forward-backward direction along the bicycle frame when the movable element moves between the retracted and extended positions. The connecting element includes a cable attachment section for attaching an actuating cable, and this cable attachment section is designed to be pulled forward along the bicycle frame by the actuating cable, which is a direction of the forward-backward movement. The pre-tensioning mechanism is designed to pre-tension the connecting element so that the movable element is positioned in either the retracted or extended position. The pre-tensioning mechanism comprises a pre-tensioning element and an intermediate element. The pre-tensioning element has a first end section.The intermediate element is provided in such a way that it is separated from the movable element and the connecting element, so that a preload force of the preload element is transferred from the first end section through the intermediate element to the connecting element.

[0008] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to the first aspect is designed such that the preload element further comprises a second end section, wherein the movable element has a guide surface designed for contacting and guiding a bicycle chain and an arrangement section designed for arranging the second end section and provided on the guide surface.

[0009] In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, a derailleur comprises a base element, a movable element, a connecting element, and a preloading mechanism. The base element is designed for attachment to a bicycle frame. The movable element is designed to be movable relative to the base element between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the movable element is further away from the base element than in the retracted position. The connecting element is designed for movably coupling the movable element to the base element.The connecting element is designed to move in a forward-backward direction along the bicycle frame when the movable element moves between the retracted and extended positions. The connecting element includes a cable attachment section for attaching an actuating cable, and this cable attachment section is designed to be pulled forward along the bicycle frame by the actuating cable, which is a direction of the forward-backward movement. The pre-tensioning mechanism is designed to pre-tension the connecting element so that the movable element is positioned in either the retracted or extended position. The pre-tensioning mechanism comprises a pre-tensioning element and an intermediate element. The pre-tensioning element has a first end section.The intermediate element is designed to be separate from the movable element and the connecting element in such a way that a prestressing force from the prestressing element is transmitted from the first end section through (or via) the intermediate element either to the movable element or the connecting element. Furthermore, the intermediate element comprises a first part and a second part. The first part is configured to engage (or engage with) the first end section of the prestressing element. The second part is configured to engage (or engage with) either the connecting element or the movable element and is detachably attached to the first part.

[0010] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to the third aspect is designed such that the preload element comprises a torsion spring with a cylindrical part from which the first end section extends. The first part comprises an inner section and an outer section. The inner section is designed to be located within the cylindrical part. The outer section is designed to be located outside the cylindrical part. The second part is designed to be detachably attached to the outer section.

[0011] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to the fourth aspect is designed such that the movable element is rotatably (or pivotably) connected to the connecting element via a pivot axis. The cylindrical part of the preload element and the intermediate element are arranged on the pivot axis.

[0012] In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to the fourth or fifth aspect is designed such that the outer section is designed to capture (or engage with) the first end section of the preloading element.

[0013] In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present invention, the derailleur is designed according to one of the fourth to sixth aspects such that the inner section has a first diameter. The outer section has a second diameter which is larger than the first diameter.

[0014] In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur is designed according to one of the fourth to seventh aspects such that the outer section is provided in an axial direction of the axis of rotation between the preloading element and the connecting element.

[0015] In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur is designed according to one of the fourth to eighth aspects such that the outer side section comprises a tool engagement section on which a tool is to engage when the derailleur is assembled.

[0016] In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to the ninth aspect is designed such that the tool attack section comprises at least one tool attack opening at which the tool is to engage when the derailleur is assembled.

[0017] In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to the ninth aspect of the invention is designed such that the tool attack section comprises a plurality of tool attack openings at which the tool is to engage when the derailleur is assembled.

[0018] In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to one of the fourth to eleventh aspects is configured such that the outer section further comprises a pin engagement opening. The second part has a pin configured to engage in the pin engagement opening.

[0019] In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to one of the third to twelfth aspects is configured such that the intermediate element is designed to transmit the preload force of the preload element from the first end section to the connecting element. The connecting element comprises a recessed section configured to engage the second part.

[0020] In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to one of the third to twelfth aspects is designed such that the preload element further comprises a second end section, wherein the intermediate element is designed to transmit the preload force of the preload element from the first end section through the intermediate element to the connecting element, and wherein the movable element comprises a guide surface designed to contact and guide a bicycle chain and an arrangement section designed and provided on the guide surface for arranging the second end section.

[0021] In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur is designed according to one of the first to fourteenth aspects such that the pre-tensioning mechanism is designed to pre-tension the connecting element, so that the movable element is arranged in the retracted position.

[0022] In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to one of the first to fifteenth aspects is designed such that the connecting element comprises a proximal end section rotatably (or pivotably) connected to the base element and a distal end section rotatably (or pivotally) connected to the moving element. The connecting element is designed such that the distal end section moves in a forward-backward direction of the bicycle frame when the moving element moves between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0023] In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to one of the first to sixteenth aspects further comprises an additional connecting element configured to couple the movable element to the base element such that the movable element is movable relative to the base element between the retracted position and the extended position. The base element, the movable element, the connecting element, and the additional connecting element define a four-bar linkage / crank swingarm.

[0024] In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the derailleur according to one of the first to seventeenth aspects is designed such that the intermediate element is provided on a first side of the movable element. The first side is closer to the bicycle frame than the second side, opposite a second side of the movable element, and is in a state where the base element is attached to the bicycle frame. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] A more complete understanding of the invention and many of its associated advantages will be readily attained after a better understanding of the invention by reference to the following detailed description, when considered in conjunction with the attached drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 a side view of a bicycle equipped with a derailleur in accordance with an embodiment; Fig. 2 is an enlarged external top view of a section of the bicycle in the area of ​​the derailleur; Fig. 3 a perspective rear view of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in section 2 is; Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view of the derailleur along line IV-IV from Fig. 3 is Fig. 5 a cross-sectional view of the derailleur along line VV from Fig. 3 is; Fig. 6 a perspective rear view of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in section 2 is; Fig. 7. A skewed perspective view of a pre-tensioning mechanism of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in section 6 is; Fig. 8 a perspective view of the first part of a Fig. The preload mechanism shown in section 7 is; Fig. 9 a perspective view of the first part of the in Fig. The preload mechanism shown in section 7 is; Fig. 10 a cross-sectional view of the derailleur along line XX from Fig. 6 is; Fig. 11 a partial perspective view of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in section 6 is; Fig. 12 a partial perspective view of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in section 6 is; Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram that shows a method for assembling the preloading mechanism of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in the 6 illustrations is shown; Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a method for assembling the preloading mechanism of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in the 6 illustrations is shown; Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram that shows a method for assembling the preloading mechanism of the in Fig. The derailleur shown in section 6 shows and Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram that shows a method for assembling the preloading mechanism of the in Fig. The 6th derailleur shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORM

[0026] Embodiments are now described with reference to the attached drawings, where the same reference numerals denote corresponding or identical elements in the different drawings.

[0027] It will initially be on Fig. Reference is made to Figure 1, which depicts a bicycle 10 equipped with a front derailleur 12 in accordance with one embodiment. As explained below, the derailleur is a front derailleur 12 designed for detachable and reattachable attachment to a bicycle frame 14. The bicycle 10 comprises a front fork 16, a rear wheel 18, a front wheel 20, a handlebar 22, and a saddle 24. The handlebar 22 is attached to a steering tube or steerer tube of the front fork 16. In the illustrated embodiment, a gear shifter 26 is attached to the handlebar 22 for actuating the derailleur 12 to move a chain 28 laterally between three front sprockets or chainrings 30. The gear shifter 26 is operatively connected to the derailleur 12 by an actuating cable 32.To a person skilled in the art of bicycles, it is evident from the present disclosure that any switch can be used to actuate the derailleur 12 with an electrical actuator instead of a mechanical actuator, such as the gear shifter 26. Here, the gear shifter 26 is shown on the right side of the handlebar 22. However, the gear shifter 26 can be provided on either the left or right side of the handlebar to actuate the derailleur 12, as required and / or desired.

[0028] In this embodiment, the following directional terms “front”, “back”, “forward”, “backward”, “left”, “right”, “across”, “upward”, “downward”, as well as any other similar directional term, refer to those directions determined based on a rider who, for example, is seated on the saddle 24 of the bicycle 10, facing the handlebars 22. Accordingly, these terms, as used to describe the derailleur 12, should be understood relative to the bicycle 10 as it is in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. Fig. As shown in 1, it can be interpreted.

[0029] The bicycle 10 can be any type of bicycle and can have a wide variety of configurations. Since bicycles and their various components are well known in the field of bicycles, the following description does not contain any detailed descriptions or illustrations of the bicycle 10 and its various components, with the exception of the front derailleur 12 and the components or parts relating to the front derailleur 12. In other words, this disclosure merely describes and / or illustrates the front derailleur 12 and the components or parts of the bicycle 10 that relate to the front derailleur 12.

[0030] It will be on Fig. Reference is made to Section 2, according to which the front derailleur 12 is mounted on a seat tube 34 of the bicycle frame 14. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the front derailleur 12 is mounted to a suspension tube 36 of the bicycle frame 14 by means of a bottom bracket or other mounting structure, as required and / or desired. Furthermore, the embodiments of the front derailleur 12 can be applied to a rear derailleur as required and / or desired.

[0031] How Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the bicycle 10 has a crank axle A1 and a rear axle A2, which is parallel to the crank axle A1. The crank axle A1 is defined by the suspension tube 36 of the bicycle frame 14. In other words, the crank axle A1 corresponds to a central longitudinal axis of the suspension tube 36 and therefore also corresponds to the center of rotation of the chainrings 30. As shown in Figure 2, the bicycle 10 has a crank axle A1 and a rear axle A2, which is parallel to the crank axle A1. The crank axle A1 is defined by the suspension tube 36 of the bicycle frame 14. In other words, the crank axle A1 corresponds to a central longitudinal axis of the suspension tube 36 and therefore also corresponds to the center of rotation of the chainrings 30. Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the rear wheel axle A2 is defined by a central axle 38 of the rear wheel 18.

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the derailleur 12 comprises a base element 40, a movable element 42, a connecting element 44, an additional connecting element 46, and a preload mechanism 48. The base element 40 is made of a rigid material, such as a metal or a fiber-reinforced material. The base element 40 is designed for attachment to the bicycle frame 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 40 is attached to the seat tube 34 of the bicycle frame 14, such that the position of the base element 40 relative to the seat tube 34 can be adjusted in an adjustment direction D1. More precisely, the base element 40 includes a clamp section 41 designed for attachment to the seat tube 34. The adjustment direction D1 is defined along a central axis A3 of the seat tube 34.For a person skilled in the field of bicycles, it is evident from the present disclosure that the base element 40 can have other configurations as required and / or desired. For example, the base element 40 can be attached to the suspension tube 36 by means of the bottom bracket, as required and / or desired.

[0033] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the actuating cable 32 comprises an outer sleeve 32a and an inner cable 32b, which extends through the outer sleeve 32a. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating cable 32 is therefore a conventional Bowden cable. For example, the inner cable 32b is slidably arranged within the outer sleeve 32a. The inner cable 32b is attached to the connecting element 44.

[0034] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the movable element 42 is designed to be movable relative to the base element 40 between a retracted position P1 and an extended position P2, in which the movable element 42 is further away from the base element 40 than in the retracted position P1. The movable element 42 is a chain guide designed to guide the chain 28. The movable element 42 (the first element 50 and / or the second element 52) ​​is made of a solid material, such as a metal or a resin. For example, the movable element 42 (the first element 50 and / or the second element 52) ​​is made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, stainless steel, or a synthetic resin.

[0035] The movable element 42 comprises a first element 50 and a second element 52. The first element 50 and the second element 52 are made of a metallic material such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, or stainless steel. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the first element 50 may be made of a different material than the second element 52.

[0036] The first element 50 is configured to contact the chain 28 and displace it laterally, such that the chain 28 is moved in an outward direction D21 away from the bicycle frame 14 between the chainrings 30. The outward direction D21 is one of the transverse directions D2 of the bicycle frame 14. The first element 50 comprises a first guide section 50a and a first connecting section 50b. The first connecting section 50b projects from the first guide section 50a. The first connecting section 50b is bent from an end portion of the first guide section 50a. However, it is evident to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the first connecting section 50b need not project from the first guide section 50a. The first connecting section 50b need not be bent from the first guide section 50a. The first connecting section 50b can have other configurations, as required and / or desired.For example, the first connecting section 50b can be separate from the first guide section 50a and can be connected to the first guide section 50a using other suitable attachment structures such as welding, riveting or bolting as required and / or desired.

[0037] The second element 52 is designed to contact the chain 28 and displace it laterally, such that the chain 28 is moved in an inward direction D22 towards the bicycle frame 14 between the chainrings 30. The inward direction D22 is the opposite of the transverse direction D2 and is opposite to the outward direction D21. The second element 52 comprises a second guide section 52a and a second connecting section 52b, which overlaps with the first connecting section 50b. The second connecting section 52b projects from the second guide section 52a to the first guide section 50a. The second connecting section 52b is bent from an end portion of the second guide section 52a. However, it is evident from this disclosure to a person skilled in the art of bicycles that the second connecting section 52b need not project from the second guide section 52a.The second connecting section 52b need not be bent out of the second guide section 52a. The second connecting section 52b can have other configurations as required and / or desired. For example, the second connecting section 52b can be a separate element from the second guide section 52a and can be connected to the second guide section 52a using other suitable fastening methods such as welding, riveting, or bolting, as required and / or desired.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the first element 50 is arranged closer to the bicycle frame 14 than the second element 52. The first guide section 50a is arranged closer to the bicycle frame 14 than the second guide section 52a. The first guide section 50a is spaced apart from the second guide section 52a to define a chain guide slot 42a through which the chain 28 extends in a chain drive direction D3. The chain drive direction D3 is defined, relative to the derailleur 12, as the direction in which the chain 28 is moved by the rider's pedal force to propel the bicycle 10 forward.

[0039] The second element 52 further comprises a third connecting section 52c. The third connecting section 52c is arranged at a lower end section of the second guide section 52a. The third connecting section 52c is connected to a lower end section of the first guide section 50a by a fastener 54 (e.g., a rivet). In the illustrated embodiment, the first element 50 and the second element 52 are separate elements. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the first element 50 can be integrally formed with the second element 52 as a single monolithic element. For example, the third connecting section 52c can be integrally formed with the lower end section of the first guide section 50a as a single monolithic element.Furthermore, the first connecting section 50b can be integrally connected with the second connecting section 52b as a single monolithic element.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the first connecting section 50b and the second connecting section 52b are provided at an upper end section of the movable element 42. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the first connecting section 50b and the second connecting section 52b can be provided at a section other than the upper end section of the movable element 42. The first connecting section 50b is arranged at an upper end section of the first guide section 50a. The second connecting section 52b is arranged at an upper end section of the second connecting section 52a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connecting section 50b is provided below the second connecting section 52b.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the first connecting section 50b is coupled to the second connecting section 52b by a fastener 55 and a shaft element 56. The fastener 55 is, for example, a rivet. The shaft element 56 is configured to connect the first connecting section 50b to the second connecting section 52b and to rotatably connect the movable element 42 to the additional connecting element 46. Since the shaft element 56 rotatably couples the movable element 52 to the additional connecting element 46 in addition to coupling the first connecting section 50b to the second connecting section 52b, the design of the derailleur 12 can be simplified. It is evident to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the shaft element 56 does not necessarily have to rotatably couple the movable element 42 to the additional connecting element 46.The shaft element 56 can only couple the first connecting section 50b with the second connecting section 52b if the other element rotatably couples the movable element 42 with the additional connecting element 46.

[0042] The shaft element 56 comprises a main shaft body 56a, a first flange 56b, a second flange 57, and a third flange 56c. The shaft element 56 is made of a solid material, such as a metallic material. The shaft element 56 is made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, or, for example, stainless steel. The main shaft body 56a extends along a first axis of rotation A11.

[0043] The first flange 56b is provided at a lower end of the main shaft body 56a. The first flange 56b has a larger outer diameter than the outer diameter of the lower end of the main shaft body 56a. The first flange 56b is a crimped section and is integrally formed with the main shaft body 56a as a single monolithic element. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the first flange 56b can instead have other configurations of the crimped section. The first flange 56b can be a separate element from the main shaft body 56a, as can the second flange 57. The first flange 56b can be a separate element, such as a snap ring or a nut, designed for detachable attachment to the main shaft body 56a.

[0044] The second flange 57 is a snap ring (which may also be called a spring ring) designed for detachable attachment to the main shaft body 56a. The second flange 57 is provided in an attachment groove 56d, which is provided at an upper end of the main shaft body 56a. The second flange 57 has a larger outer diameter than the outer diameter of the upper end of the main shaft body 56a. The second flange 57 prevents the additional connecting element 46 from being removed from the shaft element 56a. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the second flange 57 can have other configurations besides the snap ring. For example, the second flange 57 can be a nut (or socket). Moreover, the second flange 57 can be integrally formed with the main shaft body 56a as a single monolithic element.The second flange 57 can, for example, be a crimped section just like the first flange 56b.

[0045] The third flange 56c is provided between the first flange 56b and the second flange 57. The third flange 56c has a larger outer diameter than the outer diameter of the shaft body 56a. The third flange 56c is integrally formed with the shaft body 56a as a single monolithic element. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the third flange 56c can have other configurations. The third flange 56c can be a separate element, such as a snap ring designed for detachable attachment to the shaft body 56a. Moreover, it is apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the third flange 56c can be omitted as required and / or desired.

[0046] The additional connecting element 46 includes a first connecting through-hole 46a through which the shaft element 56 extends. A bushing 47 is attached to the shaft element 56 and is provided in the first connecting through-hole 46a. The first connecting section 50b includes a first through-hole 50i. The second connecting section 52b includes a second through-hole 52d. The shaft element 56 extends through the first through-hole 50i and the second through-hole 52d. The outer diameter of the first flange 56e is larger than the inner diameter of the first through-hole 50i and the second through-hole 52d. The outer diameter of the second flange 57 is larger than the inner diameter of the first connecting through-hole 46a. The outer diameter of the third flange 56c is larger than the inner diameter of the first through hole 50i, the second through hole 52d and the first connecting through hole 46a.To a person skilled in the art of bicycles, it is evident from the present disclosure that the first through-hole 50i can be a recess or cutout through which the shaft element 56 extends instead of through the first through-hole 50i. Furthermore, the second through-hole 52d can be a recess or cutout through which the shaft element 56 extends instead of through the second through-hole 52c.

[0047] The first connecting section 50b, the second connecting section 52b, and the additional connecting element 46 are provided between the first flange 56b and the second flange 57. More precisely, the first connecting section 50b and the second connecting section 52b are provided between the first flange 56b and the additional connecting element 46. The additional connecting element 46 is provided between the third flange 56c and the second flange 57. The first connecting section 50b is secured to the second connecting section 52b by means of the first flange 56b and the third flange 56c to integrally create the movable element 42.The first connecting section 50b and the second connecting section 52b are stacked without gaps between the first flange 56b and the third flange 56c. The additional connecting element 46 is rotatably positioned between the second flange 57 and the third flange 56c relative to the movable element 42. The additional connecting element 46 is stacked with a gap between the second flange 57 and the third flange 56c to allow rotatability relative to the movable element 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the second connecting section 52b of the second element 52 is positioned between the additional connecting element 46 and the first connecting section 50b of the first element 50.It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the first connecting section 50b can be provided between the additional connecting element 46 and the second connecting section 52b. The first connecting section 50b is designed to contact the second connecting section 52b. It is also apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that at least one intermediate element can be provided between the first connecting section 50b and the second connecting section 52b.

[0048] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the shaft element 56 is arranged upstream of the fastener 55 in the chain drive direction D3. The terms "upstream" and "downstream," as used herein, are defined relative to the chain drive direction D3. The first connecting section 50b comprises an upstream end section 50j and a downstream end section 50k. The downstream end section 50k is arranged downstream of the upstream end section 50j in the chain drive direction D3. The shaft element 56 is arranged closer to the upstream end section 50j than to the downstream end section 50k in the chain drive direction D3, in a state where the base element 40 is attached to the bicycle frame 14.For a person skilled in the art of bicycles, it is evident from the present disclosure that the shaft element 56 can be arranged at other locations within the first connecting section 50b and the second connecting section 52b. For example, the shaft element 56 can be arranged closer to the downstream end section 50k and the upstream end section 50j in the chain drive direction D3.

[0049] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the additional connecting element 46 is designed to movably couple the movable element 42 to the base element 40. More precisely, the additional connecting element 46 is designed to couple the movable element 42 to the base element 40 such that the movable element 42 is movable relative to the base element 40 between a retracted position P1 and an extended position P2. The additional connecting element 46 comprises a first connecting end section 46b and a second connecting end section 46c. The second connecting end section 46c is opposite the first connecting end section 46b. The first connecting end section 46b is rotatably coupled to the movable element 42 about a first axis of rotation A11 by means of the shaft element 56. The second connecting end section 46c is rotatably coupled to the base element 40 about a second axis of rotation A12 by means of a first connecting shaft 58.

[0050] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the connecting element 44 is designed to movably couple the movable element 42 to the base element 40. More precisely, the connecting element 44 is designed to rotatably couple the first element 50 to the base element 40. The connecting element 44 is rotatably coupled to the base element 40 about a third axis of rotation A13 via a pivot axis 60. The connecting element 44 is rotatably coupled to the base element 40 about a fourth axis of rotation A14 by means of a second connecting shaft 62. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the connecting element 44 is designed to couple the movable element 42 to the base element 40 in such a way that the base element 40, the movable element 42, the connecting element 44, and the additional connecting element 46 define a four-bar linkage or crank swingarm. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that other connection structures can be applied to the derailleur 12.

[0051] Viewed along the crank axis A1, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the first axis of rotation A11, the second axis of rotation A12, the third axis of rotation A13, and the fourth axis of rotation A14 are essentially parallel to each other. Viewed along the crank axis A1, the first axis of rotation A11, the second axis of rotation A12, the third axis of rotation A13, and the fourth axis of rotation A14 are neither parallel nor orthogonal to the adjustment direction D1 in a state where the derailleur 12 is attached to the bicycle frame 14 for the correct movement of the chain 28. Viewed along the crank axis A1, the first axis of rotation A11, the second axis of rotation A12, the third axis of rotation A13, and the fourth axis of rotation A14 are inclined at a first angle B1 relative to the adjustment direction D1 in a state where the derailleur 12 is attached to the bicycle frame 14 for the correct movement of the chain 28. The first angle B1 can, for example, be set within a range between approximately 0° and approximately 30°.Furthermore, viewed along the crank axis A1, the first pivot axis A11, the second pivot axis A12, the third pivot axis A13, and the fourth pivot axis A14 are inclined at a second angle B2 relative to a virtual plane E in a state where the derailleur 12 is attached to the bicycle frame to correctly shift the chain 28. The second angle B2 can, for example, be set within a range between approximately 80° and approximately 100°. The virtual plane E is defined such that it runs parallel to the crank axis A1 and the rear wheel axle A2.

[0052] It will be reopened Fig. Reference is made to Figure 5, according to which the connecting element 44 is designed to move in a forward-backward direction D4 of the bicycle frame 14 when the movable element 42 moves between the retracted position P1 and the extended position P2. Viewed in a vertical direction of the bicycle frame 14, the forward-backward direction D4 essentially coincides with the chain drive direction D3 in a state in which the derailleur 12 is attached to the bicycle frame 14. The connecting element 44 is located closer to the bicycle frame 14 than the additional connecting element 46 when the base element 40 is attached to the bicycle frame 14. The connecting element 44 includes a cable attachment section 65 to which the actuating cable 32 is to be attached.

[0053] The cable attachment section 65 is designed to be pulled in a forward direction D41 of the bicycle frame 14 via an actuating cable 32. The forward direction D41 is one of the forward-reverse directions D4.

[0054] When the cable attachment section 65 is pulled forward in the direction D41 via the actuating cable 32, the connecting element 44 is rotated about the fourth axis of rotation A14 relative to the base element 40. This causes the movable element 42 to move from the retracted position P1 to the extended position P2 in the forward direction D41 against the preload force of the preload mechanism 48. More precisely, by pulling the actuating cable 32, the movable element 42 is moved from the retracted position P1 to the extended position P2 in the forward direction D41 and away from the bicycle frame 14 in the outward direction D21.

[0055] When the tension on the actuating cable 32 is released, the movable element 42 moves from the extended position P2 to the retracted position P1. More precisely, releasing the actuating cable 32 moves the movable element 42 from the extended position P2 to the retracted position P1 in a reverse direction D42 and in an inward direction D22. In this way, in response to the actuation of the gearshift 26, the movable element 42 positions the chain 28 selectively over one of the chainrings 30. The reverse direction D42 is the opposite of the forward-reverse direction D4 and is the opposite of the forward direction D41.

[0056] It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the movable element 42 can be configured to move away from the base element 40 in the reverse direction D42 of the bicycle frame 14 when the movable element 42 moves from the retracted position P1 to the extended position P2. It is also apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the cable attachment section 65 can be attached to the additional connecting element 46. Furthermore, an electric drive unit can be used in place of the actuating cable 42 and the cable attachment section 65 in the derailleur 12 to move the movable element 42 relative to the base element 40.

[0057] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the shaft element 56 is configured to move away from the base element 40 in a forward direction D41 of the bicycle frame 14 when the movable element 42 moves from the retracted position P1 to the extended position P2. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the shaft element 56 can be configured to move away from the base element 40 in a backward direction D42 of the bicycle frame 14 when the movable element 42 moves from the retracted position P1 to the extended position P2. Since the shaft element 56 is movable relative to the base element 40 in a forward-backward direction D4, a connecting part, to which the first connecting section 50b is connected with the second connecting section 52b, can be arranged on the axis of rotation (i.e., the first axis of rotation A11) of the movable element 42 and the additional connecting element 46.This allows the shaft element 56 to function both as a pivot axis and as a connecting part.

[0058] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the end-shift stage positions of the movable element 42 relative to the base element 40 are adjustable by turning a downshift stage adjusting screw 63a and an upshift stage adjusting screw 63b. In this way, the range of motion of the movable element 42 relative to the base element 40 is adjustable. Specifically, the downshift stage adjusting screw 63a contacts a stop of the additional connecting element 46 when the movable element 42 is in a downshift stage position (low-shift gear position; i.e., the retracted position P1). The upshift stage adjusting screw 63b contacts a stop of the additional connecting element 46 when the movable element 42 is in the upshift stage position (high-shift gear position; i.e., the extended position P2).In the illustrated embodiment, the stop of the additional connecting element 46 is pressed against the downshift stage adjusting screw 63a by the preload force of the preload mechanism 48.

[0059] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the pre-tensioning mechanism 48 is designed to pre-tension (press) the connecting element 44 such that the movable element 42 is arranged either in the retracted position P1 or the extended position P2. In the illustrated embodiment, the pre-tensioning mechanism 48 is designed to pre-tension the connecting element 44 such that the movable element 42 is arranged in the retracted position P1. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the pre-tensioning mechanism 48 can be designed to pre-tension the connecting element 44 such that the movable element 42 is arranged in the extended position P2.

[0060] The preloading mechanism 48 comprises a preloading element 64, an intermediate element 66, and a support element 68. The preloading element 64 has a first end section 64b and a second end section 64c. The intermediate element 66 is provided separately from the movable element 42 and the connecting element 44, so that a preload force of the preloading element 64 is transmitted from the first end section 64b through the intermediate element 66 to either the movable element 42 or the connecting element 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate element 66 is configured to transmit the preload force of the preloading element 64 from the first end section 64b to the connecting element 44. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the intermediate element 66 can be configured to transmit the preload force of the preloading element 64 from the first end section 64b to the movable element 42.The prestressing element 64, the intermediate element 66 and the support element 68 are designed to be rotatable about the third axis of rotation A13 relative to the movable element 42 and the connecting element 44.

[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the intermediate element 66 is provided on a first side S1 of the movable element 42. The first side S1 is opposite a second side S2 of the movable element 42 and is closer to the bicycle frame 14 than the second side S2 in a state where the base element 40 is attached to the bicycle frame 14. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the intermediate element 66 can also be provided on the second side S2 of the movable element 42. The intermediate element 66 is provided above the pretensioning element 64. The support element 68 is provided below the pretensioning element 64. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the intermediate element 66 can be provided below the pretensioning element 64 and that the support element 68 can be provided above the pretensioning element 64.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the preload element 64 comprises a torsion spring which includes a cylindrical part 64a for generating a preload force about the third axis of rotation A13. However, it is apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the preload element 64 can be an element designed differently than a torsion spring for generating a preload force. The first end section 64b extends from the cylindrical part 64a along the third axis of rotation A13. The second end section 64c extends from the cylindrical part 64a along a radial direction of the cylindrical part 64a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end section 64b is provided at an upper end section of the cylindrical part 64a, and the second end section 64c is provided at a lower end section of the cylindrical part 64a.The first end section 64b is designed to engage (or enter into engagement with) the intermediate element 66. The second end section 64c is designed to engage (or enter into engagement with) the movable element 42. The cylindrical part 64 of the preload element 64, the intermediate element 66, and the support element 68 are arranged on the axis of rotation 60.

[0063] The intermediate element 66 comprises a first part 70 and a second part 72. The first part 70 is configured to engage (or engage with) the first end section 64b of the preloading element 64. The second part 72 is configured to engage (or engage with) either the connecting element 44 or the movable element 42 and is configured to be detachably attached to the first part 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the second part 72 comprises a pin that engages with a pin engagement opening 76e ( Fig. 9) is trained, which will be described later.

[0064] The first part 70 comprises an inner section 74 and an outer section 76. The inner section 74 is configured to be located on the inner surface of the cylindrical part 64a of the preload element 64. The inner section 74 projects from the outer section 76 along the third axis of rotation A13. The inner section 74 is configured to contact an inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical part 64a in a radial direction. The outer section 76 is configured to be located on the outer surface of the cylindrical part 64a. The outer section 76 is configured to engage (or enter into engagement with) the first end section 64b of the preload element 64. The outer section 76 is configured to engage (or enter into engagement with) an upper end surface of the cylindrical part 64a in an axial direction.The second part 72 is designed to be detachably attached to the outer surface section 76. In the illustrated embodiment, the first part 70 is made of a solid material, such as a metallic material. The first part 70 is made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, or, for example, stainless steel. Similarly, the second part 72 is made of a solid material, such as a metallic material. The second part 72 is made, for example, of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, or stainless steel.

[0065] The first part 70 comprises a through-hole 70a through which the axis of rotation 60 extends. The through-hole 70a extends along the third axis of rotation A13 and is provided in the inner section 74 and the outer section 76. In the illustrated embodiment, a bushing 78 extends through the through-hole 70a. The axis of rotation 60 extends through the bushing 78.

[0066] The outer section 76 includes an engagement groove 76a that engages the first end section 64b of the pretensioning element 64. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the field of bicycles from the present disclosure that the inner section 74 can be configured to engage (or engage) the first end section 64b of the pretensioning element 64 instead of the outer section 76. It is also apparent to a person skilled in the field of bicycles from the present disclosure that the inner section 74 can be omitted.

[0067] The support element 68 is designed to support a lower end section of the prestressing element 64. The support element 68 is located on the opposite side of the intermediate element 66 relative to the prestressing element 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the support element is made of a solid material, such as a metallic material. The support element 68 is, for example, made of aluminum, an aluminum alloy, iron, or stainless steel. The support element 68 comprises an end support section 68a, an intermediate section 68b, and an inner support section 68c.

[0068] The end support section 68a is configured to be located outside the cylindrical part 64a of the preload element 64. The end support section 68a is configured to contact a lower end surface of the preload element 64 in an axial direction D5 of the axis of rotation 60. The axial direction D5 is parallel to the third axis of rotation A13. The intermediate section 68b and the inner support section 68c are configured to be located inside the cylindrical part 64a. The support element 68 includes a through-hole 68d extending along the third axis of rotation A13. The axis of rotation 60 extends through the through-hole 68d along the third axis of rotation A13. It is evident to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the support element 68 can be omitted as required and / or desired.

[0069] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the outer surface section 76 comprises a tool engagement section 76b, at which a tool is to engage when the derailleur 12 is assembled. The tool engagement section 76b comprises a plurality of tool engagement openings 76c and 76d, at which the tool is to engage when the derailleur is assembled. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the tool engagement section 76b comprises at least one tool engagement opening at which the tool is to engage when the derailleur 12 is assembled.

[0070] Each tool engagement opening 76c and 76d extends in a radial direction of the outer section 76. The radial direction of the outer section 76 is perpendicular to the third axis of rotation A13. Each tool engagement opening 76c and 76d is an elongated through-hole. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that each tool engagement opening 76c and 76d can have other configurations, such as a blind hole, a recess, or a groove, instead of a through-hole. In the illustrated embodiment, the tool engagement openings 76c and 76d each have the same shape. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the tool engagement openings 76c and 76d can have different shapes.

[0071] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As shown in Figure 9, each tool engagement opening 76c and 76d extends from an outer circumference of the outer section 76 to the through-hole 70a. The tool engagement opening 76c is spaced apart from the tool engagement opening 76d in a circumferential direction of the outer section 76. In the illustrated embodiment, the tool engagement opening 76c is closer to the engagement groove 76a than the tool engagement opening 76d.

[0072] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the outer section 76 further comprises the pin engagement opening 76e. The pin engagement opening 76e is a through hole that extends in the radial direction of the outer section 76 from the outer circumference of the outer section 76 to the through hole 70a. The second part 72 ( Fig. 7) engages with the pin engagement opening 76e. The second part 72 (the pin) is inserted into the pin engagement opening 76e when the derailleur 12 is assembled. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the pin engagement opening 76e can have other configurations, such as a blind hole, a recess, or a groove, instead of the through hole.

[0073] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the inner section 74 has a first outer diameter L1. The outer section 76 has a second outer diameter L2, which is larger than the first outer diameter L1. The end support section 68a has a third outer diameter L3. The intermediate section 68b has a fourth outer diameter L4. The inner support section 68c has a fifth outer diameter L5. The third outer diameter L3 is larger than the fourth outer diameter L4 and the fifth outer diameter L5. The fourth outer diameter L4 is larger than the fifth outer diameter L5. The third outer diameter L3 is essentially the same as the second outer diameter L2. The cylindrical part 64 of the preload element 64 has a sixth outer diameter L6 and an inner diameter L7. The second outer diameter L2 and the third outer diameter L3 are essentially the same as the sixth outer diameter L6 and are larger than the inner diameter L7.

[0074] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the connecting element 44 comprises distal end sections 80a and 80b. The distal end sections 80a and 80b are rotatably connected to the movable element 42. The distal end section 80b is spaced apart from the distal end section 80a along the third axis of rotation A13. Each distal end section 80a and 80b is rotatably connected to the movable element 42 about the third axis of rotation A13 by means of the axis of rotation 60. The preloading mechanism 48 is provided between the distal end sections 80a and 80b in the axial direction D5. The outer section 76 is provided in the axial direction D5 of the axis of rotation 60 between the preloading element 64 and the connecting element 44. More precisely, the outer side section 76 is provided in the axial direction D5 between the distal end section 80a and the prestressing element 64 (the cylindrical element 64a).The end support section 68a is provided between the distal end section 80b and the prestressing element 64 (the cylindrical part 64a).

[0075] The first element 50 of the movable element 42 comprises a first support section 50c and a second support section 50d. The second support section 50d is spaced apart from the first support section 50c along the third axis of rotation A13. The distal end section 80a is rotatably connected to the first support section 50c about a third axis of rotation A13 via the axis of rotation 60. The distal end section 80b is rotatably connected to the second support section 50d about the third axis of rotation A13 via the axis of rotation 60. The distal end sections 80a and 80b are positioned along the third axis of rotation A13 between the first support section 50c and the second support section 50d.

[0076] The first support section 50c includes a first support through-hole 50e. The distal end section 80a includes a through-hole 80c. The axis of rotation 60 extends through the first support through-hole 50e and the through-hole 80c. The bushing 78 is provided in the through-hole 80c. The second support section 50d includes a second support through-hole 50f. The distal end section 80b includes a through-hole 80d. The axis of rotation 60 extends through the second support through-hole 50f and the through-hole 80d. A bushing 82 is attached to the axis of rotation 60 and is provided in the through-hole 80d.

[0077] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the connecting element 44 is designed such that the distal end sections 80a and 80b move in a forward-backward direction D4 of the bicycle frame 14 when the movable element 42 moves between the retracted position P1 and the extended position P2. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 44 is designed such that the distal end sections 80a and 80b move in the forward direction D41 of the bicycle frame 14 when the movable elements 42 move from the retracted position P1 to the extended position P2.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the connecting element 44 comprises proximal end sections 78a and 78b. The proximal end sections 78a and 78b are rotatably connected to the base element 40. The proximal end sections 78a and 78b are located on opposite sides of the distal end sections 80a and 80b of the connecting element 44. The proximal end section 78b is spaced apart from the proximal end section 78a along the fourth axis of rotation A14. Each proximal end section 78a and 78b is rotatably connected to the base element 40 about the fourth axis of rotation A14 by means of the second connecting shaft 62.

[0079] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the connecting element 44 includes a recessed section 44a designed to engage (or engage with) the second part 72. The second part 72 is provided within the recessed section 44a. The recessed section 44a is also designed to prevent the second part 72 from being unintentionally removed from the outer surface section 76 of the first part 70. The preload force of the preloading element 64 is transmitted from the first end section 64b of the preloading element 64 through the outer surface section 76 and the second part 72 to the connecting element 44.

[0080] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the first element 50 of the movable element 42 comprises an opening 50m adjacent to the pretensioning mechanism 48. The first element 50 further comprises an arrangement section 50g, which is designed for arranging the second end section 64c and is provided on the guide surface 50h. The arrangement section 50g includes a recess in which the second end section 64c is arranged. The guide surface 50h is designed to slide with the chain 28 and faces the second guide section 52a of the second element 52. The second end section 64c of the pretensioning element 64 is designed to engage (or enter into engagement with) the guide surface 50h. More precisely, the second end section 64c is located within the arrangement section 50g and does not project from the guide surface 50h to the second guide section 52a. This prevents the second end section 64c from obstructing the chain 28.However, for a person skilled in the art of bicycles, it is evident from the present disclosure that the arrangement section 50g can be omitted as required and / or desired. Since the second end section 64c engages the guide surface 50h, the second end section 64c and / or a support element engaging with the second end section 64c do not protrude onto the bicycle frame 14 and / or the rear wheel 18. This makes the front derailleur 12 compact in the transverse direction D2 of the bicycle frame 14 and ensures that a desired distance between the front derailleur 12 and the rear wheel 18 is maintained, even if a dimension (e.g., a width) of the rear wheel 18 needs to be larger. Therefore, the front derailleur 12 can be prevented from obstructing the rear wheel 18, regardless of the size of the rear wheel 18.

[0081] Unlike the first end section 64b of the preload element 64, the preload force of the preload element 64 is transmitted directly from the second end section 64c of the preload element 64 to the first element 50 of the movable element 42. However, it is apparent to a person skilled in the art of bicycles from the present disclosure that the intermediate element 66 can be used at the second end section of the preload element 64. In such an embodiment, the intermediate element 66 is provided at a lower end section of the preload element 64 instead of the support element 68, and the second part 72 is arranged at the arrangement section 50g of the first element 50.

[0082] Based on the Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15 to Fig. 16 The procedure for assembling the preloading mechanism 48 is described below.

[0083] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the first end section 64b of the prestressing element 64 is provided in the engagement groove 76a of the outer section 76 of the first part 70. In the case of the Fig. In the state shown in Figure 11, the preload element 64 is in a free state and the preload force of the preload element 64 is not applied to the outer section 76. The initial circumferential position of the tool engagement opening 76c relative to the connecting element 44 is set to a position at which, for example, the first tool 100 can be inserted into the tool engagement opening 76c.

[0084] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, a first tool 100 is inserted into the tool engagement opening 76c of the outer section 76. The first part 70 is rotated in a first direction of rotation D61 by the worker using the first tool 100, which increases the preload force F1 of the preloading element 64. The first part 70 is then tightened against the preload force F1 by the worker using the first tool 100 at the point shown in Fig. The circumferential position shown in section 14 was maintained.

[0085] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, when the tool engagement opening 76d is moved into a position where a second tool 102 can be inserted into the tool engagement opening 76d, the second tool 102 is inserted into the tool engagement opening 76d. After the second tool 102 is inserted into the tool engagement opening 76d, the first tool 100 is removed from the tool engagement opening 76c. At this point, the first part 70 is moved against the preload force F1 by the worker using the second tool 102 at the point indicated in Fig. The circumferential position shown in section 14 was maintained.

[0086] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the first part 70 is rotated further in the first direction of rotation D61 by the worker using the second tool 102. Once the pin engagement opening 76e is moved into a position where the second part 72 (the pin) can be inserted into the pin engagement opening 76e, the second part 72 is inserted into the pin engagement opening 76e.

[0087] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 16, the first part 70 is rotated in a second direction of rotation D62 by the worker using the second tool 102, which allows the second part 72 to contact an inclined surface 44b of the recess section 44a. The second direction of rotation D62 is opposite to the first direction of rotation D61. With the second part 72 in contact with the inclined surface 44b, the second tool 102 is removed from the tool engagement opening 76d. The preload force F2 is transmitted from the preload element 64 through the first part 70 and the second part 72 of the intermediate element 66 to the connecting element 44.

[0088] As previously described, the intermediate element 66 is provided separately from the movable element 42 and the connecting element 44 in order to transmit the preload force F2 of the preload element 64 from the first end section 64b through the intermediate element 66 to the connecting element 44. This allows the preload mechanism 48 to be easily assembled using the first tool 100 and the second tool 102, compared to a derailleur where the intermediate element 66 is not provided.

[0089] The term "encompass" and its variations, as used herein, are to be understood as open terms that indicate the presence of the mentioned characteristics, elements, components, groups, numbers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unmentioned characteristics, elements, components, groups, numbers, and / or steps. This terminology also applies to words with similar meanings, for example, the terms "exhibit," "contain," and their variations.

[0090] The terms “link”, “section”, “area”, “part” or “element”, when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0091] The ordinal numbers used with the terms "first", "second", etc., as presented in this application, serve only for identification purposes and have no other meaning, such as implying a certain order or the like. Furthermore, the term "first element", for example, does not in itself imply the existence of a "second element", and the term "second element" does not in itself imply the existence of a "first element".

[0092] Finally, degrees of precision, such as "essentially", "about" and "approximately", as used herein, represent a reasonable deviation from the modified term, so that the final result is not significantly altered.

Claims

[1] Front derailleur (12), comprising: a base element (40) designed for attachment to a bicycle frame (14); a movable element (42) which is designed to be movable relative to the base element (40) between a retracted position (P1) and an extended position (P2), in which the movable element (42) is further away from the base element (40) than in the retracted position (P1); a connecting element (44) designed for movably coupling the movable element (42) to the base element (40); wherein the connecting element (44) is configured to move in a forward-backward direction (D4) of the bicycle frame (14) when the movable element (42) moves between the retracted position (P1) and the extended position (P2), and wherein the connecting element (44) includes a cable attachment section (65) for attaching an actuating cable (32), and the cable attachment section (65) is configured to be pulled over the actuating cable (32) in a forward direction (D41) of the bicycle frame 14, which is a direction of the forward-backward direction (D4); and a Pre-tensioning mechanism (48) designed to pre-tension the connecting element (44) so ​​that the movable element (42) is arranged either in the retracted position (P1) or the extended position (P2), wherein the pre-tensioning mechanism (48) comprises: a prestressing element (64) having a first end section (64b); and an intermediate element (66) which is provided separately from the movable element (42) and the connecting element (44) in such a way that a prestressing force of the prestressing element (64) is transferred from the first end section (64b) through the intermediate element (66) to the connecting element (44). [2] Derailleur (12) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the pretensioning element (64) further comprises a second end section (64c), wherein the movable element (42) has a guide surface (50h) designed for contacting and guiding a bicycle chain (28) and an arrangement section (50g) designed for arranging the second end section (64c) and provided on the guide surface (50h). [3] Derailleur (12) comprising: a base element (40) designed for attachment to a bicycle frame (14); a movable element (42) which is designed to be movable relative to the base element (40) between a retracted position (P1) and an extended position (P2), in which the movable element (42) is further away from the base element (40) than in the retracted position (P1); a connecting element (44) designed for movably coupling the movable element (42) to the base element (40); and wherein the connecting element (44) is configured to move in a forward-backward direction (D4) of the bicycle frame (14) when the movable element (42) moves between the retracted position (P1) and the extended position (P2) and wherein the connecting element (44) includes a cable attachment section (65) for attaching an actuating cable (32) and the cable attachment section (65) is configured to be pulled over the actuating cable (32) in a forward direction (D41) of the bicycle frame 14 which is a direction of the forward-backward direction (D4), a pretensioning mechanism (48) designed to pretension the connecting element (44) such that the movable element (42) is arranged either in the retracted position (P1) or the extended position (P2), wherein the pretensioning mechanism (48) comprises: a prestressing element (64) having a first end section (64b); and an intermediate element (66) which is provided separately from the movable element (42) and the connecting element (44) in such a way that a prestressing force of the prestressing element (64) is transferred from the first end section (64b) through the intermediate element (66) either to the movable element (42) or to the connecting element (44), wherein the intermediate element (66) comprises a first part (70) and a second part (72), wherein the first part (70) is designed to capture the first end section (64b) of the prestressing element (64) and wherein the second part (72) is designed to capture either the connecting element (44) or the movable element (42) and is designed to be detachably attached to the first part (70). [4] Derailleur (12) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the preload element (64) comprises a torsion spring with a cylindrical part (64a) from which the first end section (64b) extends, wherein the first part (70) comprises an inner section (74) configured to be provided inside the cylindrical part (64a) and an outer section (76) configured to be provided outside the cylindrical part (64a) and wherein the second part (72) is designed to be detachably attached to the outer section (76). [5] Derailleur (12) according to claim 4, characterized by , that the movable element (42) is rotatably connected to the connecting element (44) via a pivot axis (A13), wherein the cylindrical part (64a) of the preloading element (64) and the intermediate element (66) are arranged on the pivot axis (A13). [6] Derailleur (12) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized by , that the outer section (76) is designed to capture the first end section (64b) of the prestressing element (64). [7] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized by, that the inner section (74) has a first diameter (L1), wherein the outer section (76) has a second diameter (L2) which is larger than the first diameter (L1). [8] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized by , that the outer side section (76) is provided in an axial direction of the axis of rotation between the prestressing element (64) and the connecting element (44). [9] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized by , that the outer side section (76) includes a tool attack section (76b) on which a tool is to attack when the derailleur (12) is assembled. [10] Derailleur (12) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the tool attack section (76b) includes at least one tool attack opening (76c, d) at which the tool is to attack when the derailleur (12) is assembled. [11] Derailleur (12) according to claim 9, characterized by, that the tool attack section (76b) comprises a plurality of tool attack openings (76c,d) at which the tool is to attack when the derailleur (12) is assembled. [12] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 4 to 11, characterized by , that the outer surface section (76) further comprises a pin engagement opening (76c), wherein the second part (72) has a pin designed to engage in the pin engagement opening (76c). [13] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 3 to 12, characterized by , that the intermediate element (66) is designed to transmit the preload force of the preload element (64) from the first end section (64b) to the connecting element (44), wherein the connecting element (44) comprises a recess section (44a) designed to engage the second part (72). [14] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 3 to 12, characterized by, that the prestressing element (64) further comprises a second end section (64c), wherein the intermediate element (66) is designed to transmit the preload force of the preload element (64) from the first end section (64b) through the intermediate element (66) to the connecting element (44) and wherein the movable element (42) has a guide surface (50h) designed for touching and guiding a bicycle chain (28) and an arrangement section (50g) designed for arranging the second end section (64c) and provided on the guide surface (50h). [15] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by , that the pretensioning mechanism (48) is designed to pretension the connecting element (44) so ​​that the movable element (42) is arranged in the retracted position (P1). [16] Derailleur according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by, that the connecting element (44) comprises a proximal end section (78a, b) rotatably connected to the base element (40) and a distal end section (80a, b) rotatably connected to the movable element (42), wherein the connecting element (44) is designed such that the distal end section (80a, b) moves in a forward-backward direction of the bicycle frame when the movable element (42) moves between the retracted position (P1) and the extended position (P2). [17] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising: an additional connecting element (46) which is designed to couple the movable element (42) to the base element (40) such that the movable element (42) is movable relative to the base element (40) between the retracted position (P1) and the extended position (P2), wherein the base element (40), the movable element (42), the connecting element (44) and the additional connecting element (46) define a four-bar linkage. [18] Derailleur (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by , that the intermediate element (66) is provided on a first side of the movable element (42), wherein the first side is opposite a second side of the movable element (42) and is located closer to the bicycle frame than the second side in a state in which the base element (40) is attached to the bicycle frame.

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