Front chain thrower

Abstract

Front chain thrower (112), comprising: a fixed component (114) configured to be fixed to a bicycle frame (10); a movable component (116) which is movably mounted in relation to the fixed component (114); a driven element (146) that is operationally coupled to the movable component (116); and a first member (142) that movably connects the movable component (116) to the fixed component (114) and that is adjustably coupled to the output member (146) in a fixed position by a fixing structure (120), thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component (116) with respect to the fixed component (114), wherein the fixing structure (120) comprises a positioning component (160), wherein the positioning component (160) is inserted into the first link (142) and the output link (146) such that the first link (142) is adjustable in position relative to the output link (146), characterized in that the first link (142) and the output link (146) are mounted pivotally on the fixed component (114) about a single pivot axis (150) and the positioning component (160) the first link (142) is adjustable in relation to the output link (146) about the single pivot axis (150).

Description

[0001] This invention relates generally to a front derailleur for a bicycle. More specifically, the present invention relates to a front derailleur with a movable component that is movable relative to a fixed component, wherein a rest position of the movable component relative to the fixed component is adjustable.

[0002] Generally, a front derailleur is mounted on the bicycle frame next to the front chainrings to shift the chain laterally between them. A front derailleur comprises a fixed or base component that is rigidly attached to the bicycle frame. It also includes a movable component or chain guide that is movably mounted relative to the fixed component so that the chain guide moves between at least two lateral shift positions, thus shifting the chain between the front chainrings. A linkage is typically connected between the fixed component and the chain guide to allow the guide to move. The chain guide usually has two cage plates or guide plates arranged to selectively engage the chain and move it between the front chainrings.The cage plates or guide plates form transverse sides of a chain cage section of the chain guide. For example, a front chain launcher with the features of the preamble of claim 1 is known from DE 10 2013 105 204 A1. DE 10 2010 011 391 A1 discloses another front chain launcher from the prior art.

[0003] In general, the present disclosure relates to a front chain launcher. In one feature, a front chain launcher has a movable component in which a fixed rest position of the movable component can be adjusted. It is an object of the present invention to provide a front chain launcher in which the fixed rest position of the movable component can be adjusted in a particularly simple manner. This object is achieved with the front chain launcher according to claim 1.

[0004] With regard to the state of the art, a front chain launcher is provided, which basically comprises a fixed component, a movable component, a driven link, and a first link. The fixed component is configured so that it can be fixed to a bicycle frame. The movable component is movably mounted relative to the fixed component. The driven link is operatively coupled to the movable component. The first link movably connects the movable component to the fixed component and is adjustableally coupled to the driven link in a fixed position by a fixing structure, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component relative to the fixed component. For example, a chain launcher with the features of the preamble of claim 1 is known from DE 10 2013 105 204 A1.

[0005] The present invention is a chain launcher having the features of claim 1. According to an exemplary aspect, the chain launcher is configured such that the first link and the output link are pivotally mounted on the fixed component about a single pivot axis.

[0006] According to one exemplary aspect, the front chain thrower is configured such that the fixing structure abuts opposite circumferentially pointing sides of the output link with respect to the pivot axis, thereby establishing the fixed rest position of the moving component.

[0007] According to another exemplary aspect, the front chain thrower is configured such that the fixing structure comprises a first bolt which is screwed into one of the first link and the driven link and abuts the other of the first link and the driven link, and a second bolt which is mounted on one of the first link and the driven link and is screwed into a movable stop component which moves axially along a threaded shank of the second bolt and abuts the other of the first link and the driven link when the second bolt is rotated about its screw axis.

[0008] According to another exemplary aspect, the front chain thrower is configured such that the other of the first link and the driven link comprises a first inclined contact surface which is inclined with respect to the screw axis, and the movable stop component comprises a second inclined contact surface which is inclined with respect to the screw axis, so that it points towards and contacts the first inclined contact surface, thereby preventing movement of the other of the first link and the driven link.

[0009] According to another exemplary aspect, the front chain thrower is configured such that the first bolt is screwed into the first link and abuts the output link, and the second bolt is mounted on the first link and the movable stop component abuts the output link.

[0010] According to another exemplary aspect, the front chain thrower is configured such that the output link includes a first inclined contact surface which is inclined with respect to the screw axis, and the movable stop component includes a second inclined contact surface which is inclined with respect to the screw axis, so that it points towards and contacts the first inclined contact surface, thereby preventing movement of the output link.

[0011] According to another exemplary aspect, the front chain thrower is configured such that the fixing structure includes a positioning component that is inserted into the first link and the driven link in such a way that the first link is adjustable in position relative to the driven link.

[0012] According to the present invention, the front chain thrower is configured such that the first link and the output link are pivotally mounted on the fixed component about a single pivot axis and the positioning component adjustably positions the first link about the single pivot axis in relation to the output link.

[0013] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the front chain launcher according to the first aspect is configured such that one of the first link and the driven link comprises a threaded screw bore and the other of the first link and the driven link comprises a receiving section. The positioning component comprises a threaded section that is screwed into the threaded screw bore and a shaft section that is arranged in the receiving section.

[0014] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the front chain launcher according to the second aspect is configured such that the receiving section is an elongated slot extending along the inward and outward directions with respect to the bicycle frame when the fixed component is fixed to the bicycle frame.

[0015] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the front chain launcher according to the third aspect is configured such that the shaft section has a central axis that is offset from a central axis of the threaded section.

[0016] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the front chain derailleur according to the second aspect is configured such that the first link and the driven link, which comprises the receiving section, further comprise at least one additional receiving section. The receiving sections are arranged in the inner and outer directions with respect to a bicycle frame when the fixed component is fixed to the bicycle frame. The shaft section is configured to be selectively arranged in one of the receiving sections.

[0017] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the front chain launcher according to the second aspect is configured such that the fixing structure includes a fastening component configured to secure the threaded section in such a way as to prevent the threaded section from loosening with respect to the threaded screw bore.

[0018] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the front chain thrower according to the first aspect is configured such that the fixed component comprises a base component and a motor unit, wherein the motor unit has an output shaft which is operatively coupled to the output link.

[0019] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the front chain thrower according to the first aspect further comprises a second link which movably connects the movable component to the fixed component.

[0020] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the front chain thrower is configured according to the eighth aspect such that the first and second links are pivotally connected to the fixed component and the movable component, and the movable component comprises a chain cage section.

[0021] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the front chain launcher is configured according to the ninth aspect such that the first link is arranged between the chain cage section and the second link.

[0022] Other items, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed front chain launcher will become apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses a preferred embodiment of the front chain launcher.

[0023] Now, with reference to the attached drawings, which form part of this original revelation: Fig. 1 a perspective partial side view of a section of a bicycle frame with a front derailleur according to an example for a better understanding of features of the invention; Fig. 2 a perspective front view of the in Fig. 1 illustrated front chain thrower, with the drive linkage cover removed to show the drive linkage; Fig. 3 a perspective exterior view of selected parts of the in Fig. 1 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 4 a front view of the selected parts of the in Fig. 3 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 5 a perspective view of the fixed component, the first and second members and the fixing structure of the in Fig. 1 illustrated front chain thrower from below; Fig. 6 another perspective view of the fixed component, the first and second members and the fixing structure, which is in Fig. 5 are illustrated, from below; Fig. 7 a perspective exterior view of selected parts of the in Fig. 1 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 8 another perspective exterior view of selected parts of the in Fig. 1 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 9 a front view of the selected parts of the in Fig. 7 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 10 a perspective view of the selected parts of the in the Fig. 7 and Fig. 9 illustrated front chain thrower from below; Fig. 11 another perspective view of the selected parts of the in the Fig. 7, Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 illustrated front chain throwers from below; Fig. 12 another perspective exterior view of selected parts of the in Fig. 1 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 13 a front view of the selected parts of the in Fig. 12 illustrated front chain throwers; Fig. 14 a perspective view of the selected parts of the in the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 illustrated front chain thrower from below; Fig. 15 another perspective view of the selected parts of the in the Fig. 12, Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 illustrated front chain thrower from below; Fig. 16 a perspective partial side view of a section of a bicycle frame with a front derailleur according to an embodiment; Fig. 17 a perspective front view of the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain thrower, with the drive linkage cover removed to show the drive linkage; Fig. 18 a perspective exterior view of selected parts of the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain throwers; Fig. 19 a front view of the selected parts of the in Fig. 18 illustrated front chain thrower; Fig. 20 a side view of the selected parts of the in the Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 illustrated front chain thrower from the inside; Fig. 21 a perspective interior view of selected parts of the in the Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. 20 illustrated front chain thrower, wherein the fixing construction of the first link and the output link of the front chain thrower is shown broken down into individual parts; Fig. 22 a perspective view of the selected parts of the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain thrower, wherein the fixing construction of the first link and the output link of the front chain thrower is shown broken down into individual parts; Fig. 23 a perspective view of the positioning component of the fixing structure for the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain throwers; Fig. 24 an end view of the positioning component of the fixing structure for the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain throwers; Fig. 25 an enlarged partial view of the fixing structure, the first link and the output link of the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain thrower, with the first link in a first position; Fig. 26 an enlarged partial view of the fixing structure, the first link and the output link of the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain thrower, with the first link in a second position; Fig. 27 an enlarged partial view of the fixing structure, the first link and the output link of the in Fig. 16 illustrated front chain thrower, with the first link in a third position; Fig. 28 an enlarged partial view of an alternative fixing construction used with the first link and a modified output link, wherein the first link is in a first position; Fig. 29 An enlarged partial view of the alternative fixing structure, the first link and the modified output link, which is shown in Fig. 28 are illustrated, with the first member in a second position; and Fig. 30 an enlarged partial view of the fixing structure, the first link and the modified output link, which are in the Fig. 28 and Fig. Figure 29 illustrates the first element in the third position.

[0024] An example to better understand features of the present invention and a selected embodiment will now be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0025] First, with reference to Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a section of a bicycle frame 10 with a front derailleur 12 according to an example for a better understanding of features of the present invention. The front derailleur 12 basically comprises a fixed component 14, a movable component 16 (e.g., a chain guide), and a retaining linkage 18. In the illustrated example, the front derailleur 12 further comprises a fixing structure 20, which is operatively coupled to the retaining linkage 18, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component 16 relative to the fixed component 14. The fixing structure 20 is configured such that the fixed rest position of the movable component 16 relative to the fixed component 14 can be adjusted in a lateral direction L.

[0026] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the fixed component 14 is configured to be directly attached to the bicycle frame 10 (e.g., seat tube) by a hinged seat tube clamp 22. Consequently, the fixed component 14 forms a mounting device for securing the front derailleur 12 to the bicycle frame 10. In the illustrated example, the seat tube clamp 22 is preferably detachable from the fixed component 14 by a screw (not shown). However, the fixed component 14 can, if necessary and / or desired, have other types of fastening mechanisms. The movable component 16 is movably mounted relative to the fixed component 14 by the retaining linkage 18, allowing the movable component 16 to move laterally in the direction L with respect to a vertical center plane P of the bicycle frame 10.

[0027] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in the illustrated example, the fixed component 14 comprises a base component 24 and an electric motor unit 26. The electric motor unit 26 is fixedly mounted to the base component 24. The electric motor unit 26 is operationally connected to the retaining linkage 18 for laterally moving the movable component 16 relative to the fixed component 14. The electric motor unit 26 comprises an electric reversing motor that is electrically connected to a remote power supply, such as a battery (not shown) and / or a generator (not shown), via an electrical cable (not shown). Alternatively, the electric motor unit 26 can be equipped with a rechargeable battery (not shown).

[0028] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the electric motor unit 26 includes an output shaft 26a for driving the retaining linkage 18 to laterally move the movable component 16 relative to the fixed component 14. In the illustrated example, a drive linkage 28 connects the output shaft 26a to the retaining linkage 18. Consequently, the movable component 16 is moved laterally by the operation of the motor unit 26, which moves the drive linkage 28, which in turn moves the retaining linkage 18. During a chain shift operation, the motor of the motor unit 26 is driven by a user-operated device (not shown) to rotate the output shaft 26a of the motor unit 26. Depending on the direction of rotation of the output shaft 26a, the motor will move the movable component 16 either towards or away from the bicycle frame 10.

[0029] While the front chain launcher 12 of the illustrated example is an electric front chain launcher, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the retaining linkage 18 can, if desired, be operated by a cable (e.g., a Bowden cable). In other words, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the electric motor unit 26 of the front chain launcher 12 can be replaced by a cable-operated arrangement. Consequently, the electric motor unit 26 and the drive linkage 28 are not discussed in more detail herein.

[0030] With reference to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. The movable component 16 basically comprises an inner plate 16a, an outer plate 16b, an upper connecting component 16c, and a lower connecting component 16d. The inner plate 16a and the outer plate 16b are laterally spaced apart and connected to each other at their upper sections by the upper connecting component 16c and at their lower sections by the lower connecting component 16d, thus defining a chain cage section 30. The inner plate 16a pushes the chain onto a larger chainring during an upshift. The outer plate 16b pulls the chain inwards onto a smaller chainring during a downshift.

[0031] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the retaining linkage 18 comprises a first link 42, which movably connects the movable component 16 to the fixed component 14. In the illustrated example, the retaining linkage 18 further comprises a second link 44, which movably connects the movable component 16 to the fixed component 14. The first and second links 42 and 44 are pivotally connected to the fixed component 14 and the movable component 16, respectively, thus defining a four-way joint. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the first link 42 is arranged between the chain cage section 30 and the second link 44. Consequently, in the illustrated example, the first link 42 forms an outer link of the front chain launcher 12, while the second link 44 forms an inner link of the front chain launcher 12. While two links are used to support the movable component 16 on the fixed component 14, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the retaining linkage 18 can have only a single retaining link or more than two retaining links.

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, an output member 46 connects the retaining linkage 18 to the drive linkage 28. Specifically, the output member 46 is connected to the drive linkage 28 by a connecting pin 48. Consequently, the output shaft 26a of the electric motor unit 26 is operationally coupled to the output member 46 via the drive linkage 28, causing the movable component 16 to move laterally in response to the operation of the motor unit 26.

[0033] In the illustrated example, as in the Fig. 2, Fig. 5 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the first link 42 is a wide H-shaped link in which a pair of first (upper) ends are pivotally connected to the base component 24 by a pair of respective pivot pins 50, and a pair of second (lower) ends are pivotally connected to the movable component 16 by a pair of respective pivot pins 52. In the second link 44, a first (upper) end is pivotally connected to the base component 24 by a pivot pin 54, and a second (lower) end is pivotally connected to the movable component 16 by a pivot pin 56. The output link 46 is pivotally connected to the base component 24 by the front of the pivot pins 50. Consequently, as shown in Fig. 4 can be seen, the first link 42 and the output link 46 are mounted pivotally on the fixed component 14 about a single pivot axis P1, which is defined by the pivot bolts 50.

[0034] Now the fixing structure 20 is described with reference mainly to the Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. This is discussed in more detail in section 15. In principle, the fixing structure 20 establishes a relative position of the first link 42 with respect to the base component 24 of the fixed component 14, thereby creating a fixed rest position of the movable component 16 with respect to the fixed component 14. More specifically, the fixing structure 20 adjustably connects the first link 42 to the output link 46 in a fixed position. Consequently, the output link 46 is operatively coupled to the movable component 16 by the fixing structure 20 and the first link 42, so that a driving force (a pushing or pulling force) is transmitted from the output link 46 to the first link 42. In this way, the movable component 16 is moved laterally when the output link 46 rotates about the pivot axis P1 in response to the operation of the electric motor unit 26.

[0035] How best to in the Fig. As shown in Figures 6, 11, and 13 to 15, the fixing assembly 20 basically comprises a first bolt 60, a second bolt 62, and a movable stop element 64. The first bolt 60, the second bolt 62, and the movable stop element 64 work together to selectively maintain a desired relative position of the first member 42 with respect to the output member 46. The first bolt 60 has a threaded shank 60a, a tool engagement feature 60b at one end of the threaded shank 60a, and a stop surface 60c at the other end of the threaded shank 60a. The second bolt 62 has a threaded shank 62a and a tool engagement feature 62b at one end of the threaded shank 60a. The movable stop element 64 has a threaded hole 64a and an inclined contact surface 64b.

[0036] In the illustrated example, as in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the first bolt 60 is screwed into a threaded hole 42a of the first link 42. The second bolt 62 is supported on the first link 42 by a pair of mounting holes 42b and 42c, as best shown in Figure 8. Fig. 11 to see. As in the Fig. 11, Fig. 14 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the movable stop component 64 is screwed onto the threaded shaft 62a of the second bolt 62. The second bolt 62 is mounted to the first link 42 by means of the movable stop component 64. More specifically, the movable stop component 64 is located in the recess 42d ( Fig. 11) of the first link 42, and the second bolt 62 is screwed into the threaded hole 64a of the movable stop element 64, so that the second bolt 62 is held against the first link 42. Furthermore, a lower surface 64c of the stop element 64 contacts the first link 42, preventing the movable stop element 64 from rotating relative to the first link 42 while the second bolt 62 is rotated. Moreover, as the second bolt 62 rotates, the inclined contact surface 64b moves within the recess 42d and contacts the output link 46, as discussed below, thereby rotating the output link 46 on the front of the pivot bolts 50.

[0037] As in the Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the fixing structure 20 may also include a cover component 66 that partially conceals the first bolt 60, the second bolt 62, and the movable stop component 64. The cover component 66 is secured to the first link 42 by the first bolt 60, which screws into a threaded hole 66a in the cover component 66. The cover component 66 has a hole 66b that is aligned with the tool engagement structure 62b of the second bolt 62.

[0038] While the fixing structure 20 is mounted on the first link 42 in the illustrated example, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the fixing structure 20 could be mounted on the output link 46 if necessary and / or desired. In other words, the first bolt 60 can be screwed into either of the first link 42 and the output link 46 and abuts the other of the first link 42 and the output link 46. The second bolt 62 would be mounted on one of the first link 42 and the output link 46 with the movable stop element 64 abutting the other of the first link 42 and the output link 46. In both cases, the relative positions of the first link 42 and the output link 46 can be readily adjusted to set the fixed rest position of the movable component 16.

[0039] In the illustrated example, as in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the first bolt 60 is screwed into the threaded hole 42a of the first link 42, and the second bolt 62 is mounted on the first link 42. As is best done in the Fig. 14 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the stop surface 60c of the first bolt 60 abuts the output member 46 and the movable stop component 64 abuts the output member 46. In other words, the first bolt 60 and the movable stop component 64 of the fixing structure 20 abut opposite circumferentially facing sides of the output member 46 with respect to the pivot axis P1, thereby establishing the fixed rest position of the movable component 16.

[0040] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the first and second bolts 60 and 62 are mounted on the first link 42, such that the first bolt 60 has a longitudinal screw axis A1 that is arranged perpendicularly with respect to a longitudinal screw axis A2 of the second bolt 62. As shown in the Fig. 11 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 14, the movable stop component 64 is screwed onto a threaded shank section of the second bolt 62. In other words, the threaded shank of the second bolt 62 is screwed into the movable stop component 64. Consequently, when the second bolt 62 moves about the screw axis A2 ( Fig. 9) is rotated, the movable stop component 64 axially along the threaded shaft 62a of the second bolt 62 and abuts the other of the first link 42 and the output link 46 when the second bolt 62 is rotated about the screw axis A2.

[0041] In particular, as in the Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the output link 46 comprises a projecting part 70 that is inserted between the first bolts 60 and the movable stop component 64. By rotating the first and second bolts 60 and 62, the position of the first link 42 relative to the output link 46 can be adjusted, as explained below, so that the fixed rest position of the movable component 16 relative to the fixed component 14 is set. The projecting part 70 of the output link 46 comprises a stop surface 70a and an inclined contact surface 70b. The stop surface 60c of the first bolt 60 contacts the stop surface 70a of the output link 46, thereby preventing clockwise movement of the output link 46 about the pivot axis P1, as illustrated from in front of the front chain thrower 12 (i.e., as shown in Figure 15). Fig. 4). On the other hand, the inclined contact surface 64b of the movable stop component 64 contacts the inclined contact surface 70b, thereby preventing counterclockwise movement of the output member 46 about the pivot axis P1, as illustrated from in front of the front chain thrower 12 (i.e., as in Fig. 4). The inclined contact surface 70b is inclined with respect to the screw axis A2 of the second bolt 62. The inclined contact surface 64b of the movable stop component 64 is inclined with respect to the screw axis A2 of the second bolt 62, such that it points towards and contacts the inclined contact surface 70b, thereby preventing counterclockwise movement of the output member 46 about the pivot axis P1, as shown in Fig. 4 can be seen. In this example, the inclined contact surface 70b corresponds to the first inclined contact surface of the claims and the inclined contact surface 64b corresponds to the second inclined contact surface of the claims.

[0042] Now, a procedure for setting (adjusting) the fixed rest position of the movable component 16 with respect to the fixed component 14 is discussed. Of course, the following sequence of some of the steps can be changed if necessary and / or desired. First, the first bolt 60 is screwed into the threaded hole 42a of the first link 42. Next, the second bolt 62 is mounted on the first link 42 using the movable stop component 64. The movable stop component 64 is inserted into the recess 42d ( Fig. 11) of the first member 42 is inserted so that the inclined contact surface 70b of the projecting part 70 of the output member 46 fits the inclined contact surface 64b of the movable stop component 64, as shown in the Fig. 14 and Fig. 16 can be seen. Now the threaded shank 62a of the second bolt 62 is inserted into the opening 42b and into the threaded hole 64a of the movable stop component 64, which is located in the recess 42d ( Fig. 11) of the first member 42, screwed until the free end of the threaded shank 62a of the second bolt 62 is in the opening 42c, as shown in Fig. 11 can be seen. Consequently, the second bolt 62 is now mounted in the opening 42b and 42c, with the movable stop component 64 located in the recess 42d.

[0043] The first bolt 60 is then rotated to advance or retract it relative to the stop surface 70a of the projecting part 70 of the output member 46 until the desired position of the movable component 16 is reached. The second bolt 62 is then rotated to move the movable stop component 64 axially along the threaded shank 62a of the second bolt 62 until the inclined contact surface 70b of the projecting part 70 contacts the inclined contact surface 64b of the movable stop component 64. Consequently, the projecting part 70 is inserted between the first bolt 60 and the movable stop component 64. A fixed connection is thus established between the first member 42 and the output member 46.Furthermore, the adjustment can be achieved as necessary and / or desired by turning one of the first and second bolts 60 and 62 to loosen the connection between the first link 42 and the output link 46, and then turning the other of the first and second bolts 60 and 62 to tighten the connection between the first link 42 and the output link 46.

[0044] Now with reference to the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20, Fig. 21, Fig. 22, Fig. 23, Fig. 24, Fig. 25, Fig. 26 to Fig. Figure 27 illustrates a front derailleur 112 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The front derailleur 112 is attached to the bicycle frame 10 in the same way as in the first example. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the front chain guide 112 basically comprises a fixed component 114, a movable component 116 (e.g., a chain guide), and a retaining linkage 118. The front chain guide 112 also includes a fixing structure 120, which is operatively coupled to the retaining linkage 118, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114. The fixing structure 120 is configured such that the fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114 can be adjusted in a lateral direction L of the bicycle frame 10. Similar to the front chain guide 12 discussed above, the front chain guide 112 is configured such that the fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114 can be readily adjusted between at least two different positions.Otherwise, the front chain launcher 12 and the front chain launcher 112 are essentially the same. Given the similarities between the front chain launcher 12 and the front chain launcher 112, the following description will focus solely on the differences between the front chain launcher 112 and the front chain launcher 12.

[0045] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the fixed component 114 is configured to be directly attached to the bicycle frame 10 (e.g., seat tube) by a hinged seat tube clamp 122. Consequently, the fixed component 114 forms a mounting device for securing the front derailleur 112 to the bicycle frame 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat tube clamp 122 is preferably detachable from the fixed component 114 by a screw (not shown). However, the fixed component 114 can, if necessary and / or desired, have other types of fastening mechanisms. The movable component 116 is movably mounted relative to the fixed component 114 by the retaining linkage 118, allowing the movable component 116 to move laterally in the direction L with respect to a vertical center plane P of the bicycle frame 10.

[0046] As in the Fig. 17 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 18, in the illustrated embodiment the fixed component 114 comprises a basic component 124 ( Fig. 18) and an electric motor unit 126 ( Fig. 17) The electric motor unit 126 is fixedly mounted to the base component 124. The electric motor unit 126 is operationally connected to the retaining linkage 118 for laterally moving the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114. The electric motor unit 126 comprises an electric reversing motor that is electrically connected to a remote power supply, such as a battery (not shown) and / or a generator (not shown), via an electrical cable (not shown). Alternatively, the electric motor unit 126 can be equipped with a rechargeable battery (not shown).

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the electric motor unit 126 comprises an output shaft 126a for driving the retaining linkage 118 to laterally move the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114. In the illustrated embodiment, a drive linkage 128 connects the output shaft 126a to the retaining linkage 118. Consequently, the movable component 116 is moved laterally by the operation of the motor unit 126, which moves the drive linkage 128, which in turn moves the retaining linkage 118. During a chain shift operation, the motor of the motor unit 126 is operated by a user-operated device (not shown) to rotate the output shaft 126a of the motor unit 126. Depending on the direction of rotation of the output shaft 126a, the motor will move the movable component 116 either towards or away from the bicycle frame 10.

[0048] While the front chain launcher 112 of the illustrated embodiment is an electric front chain launcher, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the retaining linkage 118 can, if desired, be operated by a cable (e.g., a Bowden cable). In other words, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the electric motor unit 126 of the front chain launcher 112 can be replaced by a cable-operated arrangement. Consequently, the electric motor unit 126 and the drive linkage 128 are not discussed in more detail herein.

[0049] With reference to the Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 The movable component 116 basically comprises an inner plate 116a, an outer plate 116b, an upper connecting component 116c, and a lower connecting component 116d. The inner plate 116a and the outer plate 116b are laterally spaced apart and connected to each other at their upper sections by the upper connecting component 116c and at their lower sections by the lower connecting component 116d, thus defining a chain cage section 130. The inner plate 116a pushes the chain onto a larger chainring during an upshift. The outer plate 116b pulls the chain inwards onto a smaller chainring during a downshift.

[0050] As in the Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the retaining linkage 118 of the front chain thrower 112 comprises a first link 142. The first link 142 movably connects the movable component 116 to the fixed component 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining linkage 118 further comprises a second link 144, which movably connects the movable component 116 to the fixed component 114. The first and second links 142 and 144 are pivotally connected to the fixed component 114 and the movable component 116, respectively, thus defining a four-way articulation. As shown in Figure 20, the retaining linkage 118 comprises a first link 142. Fig. As can be seen in Figure 19, the first link 142 is arranged between the chain cage section 130 and the second link 144. Consequently, in the illustrated embodiment, the first link 142 forms an outer link of the front chain launcher 112, while the second link 144 forms an inner link of the front chain launcher 112. While two links are used to support the movable component 116 on the fixed component 114, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure that the retaining linkage 118 can have only a single retaining link or more than two retaining links.

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the retaining linkage 118 of the front chain thrower 112 includes an output link 146 that connects the retaining linkage 118 to the drive linkage 128. Specifically, the output link 146 is connected to the drive linkage 128 by a connecting pin 148. In this way, the output link 146 is operationally coupled to the movable component 116. Consequently, the output shaft 126a of the electric motor unit 126 is operationally coupled to the output link 146 via the drive linkage 128, causing the movable component 116 to move laterally in response to the operation of the motor unit 126.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. As can be seen in Figure 20, the first link 142 is a wide H-shaped link in which a pair of first (upper) ends are pivotally connected to the base component 124 by a pair of respective pivot pins 150, and a pair of second (lower) ends are pivotally connected to the movable component 116 by a pair of respective pivot pins 152. In the second link 144, a first (upper) end is pivotally connected to the base component 124 by a pivot pin 154, and a second (lower) end is pivotally connected to the movable component 116 by a pivot pin 156. The output link 146 is pivotally connected to the base component 124 by the front of the pivot pins 150. Consequently, as shown in Fig. 19 can be seen, the first link 142 and the output link 146 are mounted pivotally on the fixed component 114 about a single pivot axis P1, which is defined by the pivot bolts 150.

[0053] Now the fixing structure 20 is described with reference mainly to the Fig. 21, Fig. 22, Fig. 23, Fig. 24, Fig. 25, Fig. 26 to Fig. 27 is discussed in more detail. Basically, the first link 142 is adjustable and coupled to the output link 146 in a fixed position by the fixing structure 120, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114. In other words, the fixing structure 120 fixes a relative position of the first link 142 with respect to the base component 124 of the fixed component 114, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114. More specifically, the fixing structure 120 adjustably connects the first link 142 to the output link 146 in a fixed position.Consequently, the output member 146 is operationally coupled to the movable component 116 by the fixing structure 120 and the first member 142, so that a driving force (a pushing or pulling force) is transmitted from the output member 146 to the movable component 116 by means of the first member 142. In this way, the movable component 116 is moved laterally when the output member 146 rotates about the pivot axis P1 in response to the operation of the electric motor unit 126.

[0054] How best to in the Fig. 21 and Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the fixing structure 20 basically comprises a positioning component 160, which is inserted into the first link 142 and the output link 146 such that the first link 142 is adjustable in position relative to the output link 146. In this illustrated embodiment, the positioning component 160 comprises a threaded section 160a and a shank section 160b. The threaded section 160a and the shank section 160b have a cylindrical structure. The shank section 160b projects from an end face of the threaded section 160a in a longitudinal direction of the positioning component 160. Furthermore, the shank section 160b has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the threaded section 160a. In this illustrated embodiment, the threaded section 160a and the shank section 160b are integrally formed as a single component.The shaft section 160b is a cylindrical component extending from one end of the threaded section 160a. Preferably, the positioning component 160 is made of a metallic material suitable for use in a derailleur system. The threaded section 160a engages the first link 142, while the shaft section 160b engages the output link 146. The shaft section 160b has a central axis C2 that is offset from the central axis C1 of the threaded section 160a. In this way, the shaft section 160b acts as a cam with respect to the threaded section 160a. Consequently, the rotation of the threaded section 160a causes the shaft section 160b to move the output member 146 relative to the first member 142, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114.

[0055] One of the first member 142 and the output member 146 comprises a threaded screw bore, and the other of the first member 142 and the output member 146 comprises a receiving section. In the illustrated embodiment, the first member 142 comprises a threaded screw bore 142a, and the output member 146 comprises a receiving section 146a. However, although the first member 142 comprises the threaded screw bore and the output member 146 comprises the receiving section, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the first member 142 may comprise the receiving sections and the output member 146 may comprise the threaded screw bore. In any case, in this modification, one of the first member and the output member comprises a threaded screw bore, and the other of the first member and the output member comprises the receiving section.

[0056] The threaded section 160a of the positioning component 160 has an external thread on an outer circumferential surface that screws into the threaded screw bore 142a of the first member 142. The shank section 160b of the positioning component 160 is received in the receiving section 146a of the output member 146. Consequently, when the fixed component 114 is fixed to the bicycle frame 10, the threaded section 160a is screwed into the threaded screw bore 142a, and the shank section 160b is positioned in the receiving section 142a. The receiving section 146a is an elongated slot that extends along the inner and outer directions (lateral direction L) with respect to the bicycle frame 10 when the fixed component 114 is fixed to the bicycle frame 10. Although the receiving section 146a is shown as an opening that penetrates the output member 146, the receiving section 146a can be a recess that does not penetrate the output member 146.

[0057] The threaded section 160a of the positioning component 160 has a tool engagement surface 160c for rotating the positioning component 160 about the central axis C1. Here, the tool engagement surface 160c is a hexagonal recess formed in the other end face of the threaded section 160a of the positioning component 160. Of course, the tool engagement surface 160c can have any other configuration (e.g., a hexagonal outer surface, a slot, a star-shaped recess, etc.). To prevent the positioning component 160 from accidentally falling out of the first member 142 and the driven member 146, the shank section 160b of the positioning component 160 includes a recess or groove 160d that receives a clamp 162.

[0058] Preferably, the fixing structure 20 comprises a fastening element 164 that helps to prevent the positioning element 160 from accidentally detaching from the first link 142 and / or the driven link 146. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening element 164 has a threaded bore 164a and an anti-rotation element 164b. The anti-rotation element 164b is in the form of a projection that is received in a recess or opening 142b in the first link 142. The fastening element 164 is configured to secure the threaded section 160a in order to prevent the threaded section 160a from loosening relative to the threaded screw bore 142a. Alternatively, the fastening element 164 can be replaced by a nut and a retaining ring or by a nut alone.In other words, to prevent accidental loosening of the positioning component 160, the threaded section 160a is screwed into the threaded bore 164a of the fastening component 164 and into the threaded screw bore 142a, while the anti-rotation component 164b is arranged in the opening 142b in the first member 142.

[0059] The first link 142 has a first opening 142c for receiving one of the pivot pins 150 and a second opening 142d for receiving one of the pivot pins 152. The threaded screw bore 142a is located between the first and second openings 142c and 142d. The output link 146 has a first opening 146b for receiving the connecting pin 148 and a second opening 146c for receiving one of the pivot pins 150. Consequently, one of the pivot pins 150 pivotally mounts the first link 142 and the output link 146 to the base component 124. When the output shaft 126a of the electric motor unit 126 is operated, the drive linkage 128 rotates the output link 146 on one of the pivot pins 150. Since the first link 142 is fixed to the output link 146 by the fixing structure 120, the rotational movement of the output link 146 rotates the first link 142 about a single pivot axis P1.This rotational movement of the first link 142 causes the movable component 116 to move in the lateral direction L with respect to the fixed component 114.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning component 160 adjustably positions the first link 142 relative to the output link 146 about the single pivot axis P1 by rotating the threaded section 160a, thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component 116 relative to the fixed component 114. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 25, the shaft section 160b of the positioning component 160 is arranged in a central area of ​​the receiving section 146a of the output member 146, so that the first member 142 is in a first position and consequently the movable component 116 (in Fig. (25 not shown) is held in a first fixed rest position. By rotating the threaded section 160a, the shaft section 160b moves in the receiving section 146a of the output member 146, so that the first member 142 rotates about a single pivot axis P1 with respect to the output member 146. If the threaded section 160a is in Fig. 25 90 degrees counterclockwise, then the first link 142 rotates clockwise into a second position ( Fig. 26), so that the movable component 116 (in the Fig. 25, Fig. 26 to Fig. (27 not shown) is held in a second fixed rest position, which is further away from the bicycle frame 10 than the first fixed rest position. If the threaded section 160a is in Fig. 25 90 degrees rotated clockwise, then the first link 142 rotates clockwise into a third position ( Fig. 27), so that the movable component 116 (in the Fig. 25, Fig. 26 to Fig. 27 not shown) is held in a third fixed rest position which is closer to the bicycle frame 10 than the first and third fixed rest positions.

[0061] Now, with reference to the Fig. 28, Fig. 29 to Fig.30 discusses a modification of the fixing assembly 20. In this modification, a modified output member 146' replaces the output member 146, and a modified positioning member 160' replaces the positioning member 160. The other parts remain the same. The output member 146 comprises several receiving sections 146a' (e.g., three base bores) arranged in the inner and outer directions with respect to a bicycle frame 10 when the fixed component 114 is fixed to the bicycle frame 10. The positioning member 160' comprises a threaded section 160a' and a shank section 160b'. The shank section 160b' has a central axis C2 that coincides with a central axis C1 of the threaded section 160a'. The shaft section 160b' is configured to be selectively arranged in one of the receiving sections 146a', so that a fixed rest position of the movable component 116 is selectively established with respect to the fixed component 114.Although the first member 142 comprises a threaded screw bore and the output member 146' comprises the receiving sections, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the first member 142 may comprise one or more of the receiving sections and that the output member 146' may comprise the threaded screw bore. In any case, in this modification, the assembly of the first member and the output member comprising the receiving section preferably further comprises at least one additional receiving section.

[0062] For the purposes of understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprehensive" and its derivatives, as used herein, shall be understood as open terms that specify the presence of the indicated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. Likewise, it is understood that, although the terms "first" and "second" herein may be used to describe different components, such components should not be restricted by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, a first component discussed above may also be referred to as a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the expressions "including," "with," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of the degree "essentially," "about," and "approximately," as used herein, signify such a reasonable degree of deviation from the modified expression that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0063] Although only a selected embodiment has been chosen to illustrate the present invention, the person skilled in the art will understand from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made without deviating from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, position, or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and / or desired, as long as they do not substantially impair their intended function.

[0064] Although a four-bar linkage is used in the illustrated example discussed above, the movable component 16 can also be connected to the fixed component 14 by other linkage arrangements. In other words, the front chain launcher 12 can be configured to have a linkage arrangement constructed with a single articulated component or with more than two articulated components. Therefore, the present invention can be used with electric front chain launchers that utilize other types of linkage arrangements.

[0065] Similarly, components shown as directly connected or in contact with one another may have intermediate structures inserted between them, unless otherwise specified. The functions of one element may be performed by two, and vice versa, unless otherwise specified. The structures and functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment. Not all advantages need be present in a given embodiment simultaneously. Any feature that is unique compared to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of further inventions of the applicant, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by that feature(s).Therefore, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention serve only to illustrate and not to limit the invention as defined by the attached claims and their equivalents.

Claims

[1] Front chain launcher (112), comprising: a fixed component (114) configured to be fixed to a bicycle frame (10); a movable component (116) which is movably mounted in relation to the fixed component (114); a driven element (146) that is operationally coupled to the movable component (116); and a first member (142) that movably connects the movable component (116) to the fixed component (114) and that is adjustably coupled to the output member (146) in a fixed position by a fixing structure (120), thereby establishing a fixed rest position of the movable component (116) with respect to the fixed component (114), wherein the fixing structure (120) comprises a positioning component (160), wherein the positioning component (160) is inserted into the first link (142) and the output link (146) such that the first link (142) is adjustable in position relative to the output link (146), characterized by , that the first link (142) and the output link (146) are mounted pivotally on the fixed component (114) about a single pivot axis (150) and the positioning component (160) the first link (142) is adjustable in relation to the output link (146) about the single pivot axis (150). [2] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 1, wherein one of the first member (142) and the output member (146) comprises a threaded screw bore (142a) and the other of the first member (142) and the output member (146) comprises a receiving section (146a) and The positioning component (160) comprises a threaded section (160a) that is screwed into the threaded screw bore (142a) and a shaft section (160b) that is arranged in the receiving section (146a). [3] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 2, wherein the receiving section (146a) is an elongated slot extending along the inner and outer directions with respect to the bicycle frame (10) when the fixed component (114) is fixed to the bicycle frame (10). [4] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 3, wherein the shaft section (160b) has a central axis (C2) which is offset from a central axis (C1) of the threaded section (160a). [5] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 2, wherein the first member (142) and the driven member (146), which includes the receiving section (146a), further comprising at least one additional receiving section, wherein the receiving sections are arranged in the inner and outer directions with respect to a bicycle frame (10) when the fixed component (114) is fixed to the bicycle frame (10), and the shaft section (160b) is configured to be selectively located in one of the receiving sections. [6] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 2, wherein the fixing structure (120) comprises a fastening component (164) configured to secure the threaded section (160a) in such a way as to prevent the threaded section (160a) from loosening with respect to the threaded screw bore (142a). [7] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 1, wherein the fixed component (114) comprises a base component (124) and a motor unit (126), wherein the motor unit (126) has an output shaft (126a) which is operatively coupled to the output member (146). [8] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 1, further comprising a second link (144) which movably connects the movable component (116) with the fixed component (114). [9] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 8, wherein the first and second link (142, 144) are pivotally connected to the fixed component (114) and the movable component (116) and the movable component (116) comprises a chain cage section (130). [10] Front chain launcher (112) according to claim 9, wherein the first link (142) is arranged between the chain cage section (130) and the second link (144).

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