Rotating or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component and rear bicycle chainring

Abstract

Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component comprising: an outer ring member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712), comprising a first material; an intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) to which the outer ring member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) is attached, wherein the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) comprises a second material different from the first; and a hub engagement member (20; 220; 320) which is designed to be attached to the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714), and is designed to engage with a bicycle hub assembly (11), wherein the hub engagement member (20; 220; 320) comprises a third material different from the second material; and wherein the third material comprises a material different from the first material.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from US patent application No. 14 / 163,093, filed on January 24, 2014. The entire disclosure of US patent application No. 14 / 163,093 is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] The present invention relates to a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component and a rear bicycle chainring.

[0003] Cycling has become an increasingly popular form of recreation and a means of transportation. It has also become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry has constantly improved its various components. Most bicycles feature rotating or spinner-like ring-shaped components, such as a chainring or a disc rotor.

[0004] The American document US 6 428 437 B1 discloses a power transmission element comprising an improved sprocket arrangement with at least one preformed sprocket and a central sprocket carrier, wherein the sprocket teeth of the sprocket extend beyond the central sprocket carrier to interact with a roller chain, and wherein the sprocket is / is attached to the sprocket carrier by deformation of the sprocket carrier.

[0005] The American document US 2007 129 193 A1 discloses a sprocket comprising a sprocket ring portion, a resin mounting element, and at least one of several mounting elements. The resin mounting element is immovably connected to the sprocket ring portion at a point radially inside the sprocket teeth with respect to the axis of rotation. The at least one mounting element is at least partially embedded in the resin mounting element. The mounting element comprises a connecting section and a radially projecting portion extending outward from the connecting section to position the connecting section radially inside the sprocket. The mounting element is designed as a separate link from the sprocket ring portion and the resin mounting element.The resin fastener facilitates weight savings, while the fastener prevents a reduction in fastening strength (strength) due to deterioration or deformation of the resin.

[0006] German document DE 10 2010 023 882 A1 discloses a multi-part sprocket in which an inner ring for fastening the multi-part sprocket to a wheel hub has through holes which lie on a common pitch circle, wherein the inner ring has inner ring projections on its periphery for receiving a toothed ring which point radially outwards, and that the toothed ring has radially inwards pointing toothed ring projections which are spatially associated with the radially outwards pointing inner ring projections of the inner ring, and that means are provided which connect the inner ring and the toothed ring axially and radially to each other.

[0007] American document US 2,451,690 A discloses a two-part sprocket that can be attached to the axle of a tractor, comprising a pair of complementary sprocket parts that can be assembled around the axle, one of the parts having spaced bushings between which the axle can pass, and the other sprocket part having lugs that can sit in the bushings, and fastening means that are carried by one of the sprocket parts and can act on the axle to clamp the lugs in the bushings and thus hold the sprocket parts in an assembled relationship on the axle.

[0008] DE 10 342 638 A1 discloses a pinion assembly consisting of a pinion carrier with support arms for accommodating several pinions. These pinions have a toothed pinion ring with stiffeners for connection to the support arms of the pinion carrier. The pinions are fastened to the steps of the four arms with fastening rivets. The steps have bearing and step surfaces. The largest and second-largest pinions are also articulated to two additional support arms for more stable support. This reduces the mounting distance of the largest pinions and further stiffens the pinion assembly. In the area of ​​the largest pinions, the support arms are curved so that, together with the radially oriented support arms, uniform mounting distances result.

[0009] US 2009 042 679 A1 discloses an assembly of bicycle gears comprising at least two gears of different diameters and at least one support element for at least one of the at least two gears on a component of a bicycle, such as a free body of a hub for a bicycle rear wheel. The at least one support element is at least partially housed in at least one cavity of at least one other gear of the at least two gears. In this way, the distance between the gears is less than the thickness of the support element of the gears themselves.

[0010] US 2009 042 682 A1 discloses a sprocket module for a bicycle with at least two sprockets rigidly coupled to each other. At least one first sprocket of the at least two sprockets comprises an engagement section on a freewheel body of a hub for a bicycle rear wheel. A second sprocket of the module lacks this engagement section and is supported on the freewheel body via the aforementioned at least one first sprocket.

[0011] DE 10 2012 222 346 A1 discloses a brake disc for a bicycle disc brake, which generally has an outer section and a cooling fin. The outer section has a first and a second base surface oriented in opposite axial directions. The cooling fin is arranged radially offset from at least one of the first and second braking surfaces.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component comprises an ring-shaped outer member, an intermediate support member, and a hub engagement member. The ring-shaped outer member comprises a first material. The ring-shaped outer member is attached to the intermediate support member. The intermediate support member comprises a second material, which is different from the first material. The hub engagement member is configured to be attached to the intermediate support member and is configured to engage with a bicycle hub assembly. The hub engagement member comprises a third material, which is different from the second material. Furthermore, the third material comprises a material different from the first material.

[0013] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the ring-shaped outer link includes chainring teeth which are designed to engage with a bicycle chain.

[0014] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component further comprises at least one additional ring-shaped outer link, including chainring teeth designed to engage with a bicycle chain. This at least one additional ring-shaped outer link is attached to the intermediate support link.

[0015] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is configured such that the hub engagement element comprises a ring-shaped main body and an inner engagement part. The ring-shaped main body is provided around a rotational center axis of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component. The inner engagement part is provided on an inner peripheral part of the ring-shaped main body and includes a first concave-convex structure, which is configured to engage with a concave-convex structure of the bicycle hub assembly.

[0016] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the hub engagement element includes an outer engagement part, which is provided on an outer peripheral part of the ring-shaped main body, and includes a second concave-convex structure, which is designed to engage with the intermediate support element.

[0017] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the intermediate support member includes a third concave-convex structure, which is designed to engage with the second concave-convex structure of the hub engagement member.

[0018] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the first material comprises a metallic material. The second material comprises a non-metallic material. The third material comprises a metallic material.

[0019] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the second material comprises a resin material.

[0020] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the second material comprises fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0021] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the third material comprises one of aluminium, iron and titanium.

[0022] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the first material comprises one of iron and titanium.

[0023] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the ring-shaped outer member has a multi-layered or multi-layered structure with different materials.

[0024] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the ring-shaped outer link includes a first sprocket layer, a second sprocket layer, and a third sprocket layer. The first sprocket layer comprises the first material. The second sprocket layer comprises a fourth material. The third sprocket layer comprises a fifth material and is positioned between the first and second sprocket layers. The first material comprises a metallic material. The fourth material comprises a metallic material. The fifth material comprises a non-metallic material.

[0025] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the fifth material comprises a resin material or synthetic resin or plastic.

[0026] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the second and fifth materials comprise the resin material. The first sprocket layer, the second sprocket layer, and the third sprocket layer are integrally formed with the intermediate support element.

[0027] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the first sprocket layer, the second sprocket layer and the third sprocket layer are integrally formed with the intermediate support member by an integral forming process.

[0028] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component further comprises an additional ring-shaped outer link containing sprocket teeth designed to engage with a bicycle chain. The additional ring-shaped outer link has a multilayered structure with different materials and includes a fourth sprocket layer, a fifth sprocket layer, and a sixth sprocket layer. The fourth sprocket layer comprises a metallic material. The fifth sprocket layer comprises a metallic material. The sixth sprocket layer comprises a non-metallic material and is positioned between the fourth and fifth sprocket layers. The fourth sprocket layer is bonded to the first sprocket layer by diffusion.

[0029] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the ring-shaped outer link includes a first sprocket layer, a second sprocket layer, and a third sprocket layer. The first sprocket layer comprises the first material. The second sprocket layer comprises a fourth material. The third sprocket layer comprises a fifth material and is positioned between the first and second sprocket layers. The first sprocket layer is bonded to the third sprocket layer by an adhesive. The second sprocket layer is bonded to the third sprocket layer by an adhesive.

[0030] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the ring-shaped outer link includes a first sprocket layer, a second sprocket layer, and a third sprocket layer. The first sprocket layer comprises the first material. The second sprocket layer comprises a fourth material. The third sprocket layer comprises a fifth material and is positioned between the first and second sprocket layers. Each of the first, fourth, and fifth materials comprises a metallic material. The first sprocket layer is bonded to the third sprocket layer by diffusion. The second sprocket layer is bonded to the third sprocket layer by diffusion.

[0031] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the intermediate support member includes a weight-saving opening.

[0032] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the intermediate support member includes a reinforcing rib which at least partially overlaps the weight-saving opening when viewed from an axial direction parallel to a rotation center axis of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component.

[0033] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the reinforcing rib is provided at least partially outside the weight-saving opening in the axial direction.

[0034] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component comprises a disc rotor.

[0035] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a rear sprocket comprises a sprocket link and a sprocket support link. The sprocket link includes sprocket teeth configured to engage with a bicycle chain. The sprocket link is attached to the sprocket support link. The sprocket support link comprises a weight-saving opening and a reinforcing rib, which at least partially overlaps the weight-saving opening when viewed from the axial direction parallel to a rotational axis of the rear bicycle sprocket, the reinforcing rib being provided entirely outside the weight-saving opening in the axial direction.

[0036] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is designed such that the chainring link comprises a first material. The chainring support link comprises a second material. The first material comprises a metallic material. The second material comprises a non-metallic material.

[0037] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is designed so that the second material comprises a resin material or synthetic resin or plastic.

[0038] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is designed so that the second material comprises fiber-reinforced plastic.

[0039] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring further comprises a hub engagement link configured to be attached to the chainring support link and configured to engage with a bicycle hub assembly. The hub engagement link comprises a third material. This third material comprises a metallic material.

[0040] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is designed so that the third material includes one of aluminum, iron, and titanium.

[0041] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is configured such that the hub engagement element comprises an annular main body and an inner engagement part. The annular main body is positioned around the central axis of rotation of the rear bicycle chainring. The inner engagement part is located on an inner peripheral part of the annular main body and includes a first concave-convex structure configured to engage with a concave-convex structure of a bicycle hub assembly.

[0042] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is designed such that the hub engagement link includes an outer engagement part, which is provided on an outer peripheral part of the ring-shaped main body, and includes a second concave-convex structure, which is designed to engage with the chainring support link.

[0043] Preferably, the rear bicycle chainring is designed so that the chainring link has a multi-layered or multi-layered structure with different materials.

[0044] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component comprises a sprocket link and a sprocket support link. The sprocket link includes sprocket teeth and a plurality of coupling sections. The sprocket teeth are designed to engage with a bicycle chain. The coupling sections are arranged circumferentially around the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component. The coupling sections are at least partially arranged at irregular intervals / distributions around the circumference. The sprocket support link includes sprocket mounting parts to which the coupling sections are attached.

[0045] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component is designed such that the chain wheel mounting parts are arranged at least partially in the circumferential direction at an irregular distance / distribution.

[0046] Preferably, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component further comprises a hub engagement link configured to be attached to the chainring support link and configured to engage with a bicycle hub assembly. The chainring link comprises a first material. The chainring support link comprises a second material, which is different from the first material. The hub engagement link comprises a third material, which is different from the second material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0047] A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of its associated advantages will be readily available once this becomes more understandable by reference to the following detailed descriptions, when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 an outer-side elevation view of an intermediate support member and a hub engagement member of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 1, is; Fig. 3 a partial cross-sectional view of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component along line III-III of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 4 An enlarged exterior elevation view of a part of the intermediate support member is illustrated in Fig. 2, is; Fig. 5 An enlarged internal elevation view of a part of the intermediate support member, illustrated in Fig. 2, is; Fig. 6 a partial cross-sectional view of the intermediate support member and the hub engagement member along line VI-VI of Fig. 2 is; Fig. 7 A perspective view of the hub engagement element of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 1, is; Fig. 8 A perspective view of the intermediate support member of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 1, is; Fig. 9 a perspective view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a second embodiment; Fig. 10 A perspective view of an intermediate support member of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 9, is; Fig. 11 a perspective view of a hub engagement element of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 9, is; Fig. 12 a perspective view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a third embodiment; Fig. 13 A perspective view of an intermediate support member of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 12, is; Fig. 14 A perspective view of a hub engagement element of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 12, is; Fig. 15 a perspective view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. 16 a cross-sectional view of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component along line XVI-XVI of Fig. 15 is; Fig. 17 a cross-sectional view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a fifth embodiment; Fig. 18 a perspective view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a sixth embodiment; Fig. 19 an outer surface elevation view of a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to a seventh embodiment; Fig. 20 an outer elevation view of an annular outer member of the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 19, is; Fig. 21 an outer elevation view of an intermediate support member of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 19, is; and Fig. 22 an outer elevation view of an annular outer member of the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component, illustrated in Fig. 19, is. DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0048] The embodiments are now described with reference to the attached drawings, where similar reference numerals refer to corresponding or identical elements across the different drawings. First embodiment

[0049] Firstly, referring to Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 according to a first embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 is a rear bicycle chainring. However, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 can also be another type of ring-shaped bicycle component, such as a disc rotor. The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 is configured to be attached to a bicycle hub assembly 11. The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 is configured to be rotatable about a rotational axis A. The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 (or the rear bicycle chainring) comprises an annular outer link 12 (or a chainring link) and an intermediate support link 14 (or a chainring support link).

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the annular outer link 12 is a sprocket link. More specifically, the annular outer link 12 (or the sprocket link) includes sprocket teeth 16, which are designed to engage with a bicycle chain 17. The sprocket teeth 16 are arranged in a circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The annular outer link 12 (or the sprocket link) is designed to be attached to the intermediate support link 14 (the sprocket link). In the illustrated embodiment, the annular outer link 12 is coupled to the intermediate support link 14 by means of fasteners 18 (e.g., rivets).

[0051] The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 (or the rear bicycle chainring) further comprises a hub engagement link 20, which is designed to be attached to the intermediate support link 14 (or the chainring support link). The hub engagement link 20 is designed to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 11.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 10 further comprises at least one additional annular outer link, which includes sprocket teeth designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17. This additional annular outer link is attached to the intermediate support link 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 10 comprises an additional annular outer link 22, which includes sprocket teeth 24 designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17. The sprocket teeth 24 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The annular outer link 12 and the additional annular outer link 22 are arranged in an axial direction D2 parallel to the axis of rotation A.The rotatable annular bicycle component 10 includes two annular outer links; however, the number of annular outer links is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. The additional annular outer link 22 has a maximum outer diameter that is larger than the maximum outer diameter of the annular outer link 12. The number of sprocket teeth of the additional annular outer link 22 is greater than the number of sprocket teeth of the annular outer link 12.

[0053] The annular outer link 12 (or the sprocket link) comprises a first material. The annular outer link 12 is made of the first material. The intermediate support link 14 (or the sprocket support link) comprises a second material, which is different from the first material. The intermediate support link 14 is made of the second material. The hub engagement link 20 comprises a third material, which is different from the second material.

[0054] The first material comprises a metallic material. For example, the first material comprises iron and titanium. However, the first material may comprise a metallic material other than iron and titanium. For example, the additional annular outer member 22 may comprise a metallic material identical to the first material. The second material comprises a non-metallic material. For example, the second material comprises a resin material, synthetic resin, or plastic. The second material preferably comprises fiber-reinforced plastic. However, the second material may comprise a material other than resin material. For example, the second material may comprise a metallic material different from the first and third materials. Furthermore, the second material may comprise a resin material other than fiber-reinforced plastic. The third material comprises a metallic material.The third material includes, for example, aluminum, iron, and titanium. However, the third material can also include a metallic material other than aluminum, iron, and titanium.

[0055] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the intermediate support member 14 comprises an annular base section 25 and support sections 26. Each of the support sections 26 projects radially outward from the annular base section 25. The support sections 26 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The support sections 26 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D1. Each of the support sections 26 comprises a support base part 28 and a sprocket mounting part 30. The support base part 28 projects radially outward from the annular base section 25. The sprocket mounting part 30 is provided at a radial outer end of the support base part 28.

[0056] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the annular outer link 12 and the additional annular outer link 22 are coupled to the sprocket mounting part 30 by mooring ties 18. The annular outer link 12 is arranged on a first surface 30a of the sprocket mounting part 30. The additional annular outer link 22 is arranged on a second surface 30b of the sprocket mounting part 30. The second surface 30b is opposite the first surface 30a in the axial direction D2 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The annular outer link 12 and the additional annular outer link 22 are supported by the intermediate support link 14 to be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction D2.

[0057] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the intermediate support member 14 (or the sprocket support member) comprises a weight-saving opening and a reinforcing rib. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support member 14 comprises a plurality of weight-saving openings 32 and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 34. However, the annular outer member 12 can comprise at least some weight-saving openings 32 and at least one reinforcing rib 34.

[0058] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the weight-saving opening 32 is provided on the support base part 28. The reinforcing rib 34 is provided on the support base part 28. The reinforcing rib 34 overlaps at least partially the weight-saving opening 32 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the axis of rotation A of the rotatable or rotating annular bicycle component 10 (or the rear bicycle sprocket). Each of the reinforcing ribs 34 includes a first rib 36 and a second rib 38. The first rib 36 and the second rib 38 are provided on the support base part 28. The first rib 36 and the second rib 38 intersect each other. The first rib 36 is connected / bonded to the second rib 38 at substantially mid-positions of the first rib 36 and the second rib 38.

[0059] The reinforcing rib 34 further includes a third rib 40, a fourth rib 42, and a fifth rib 44. The third rib 40, the fourth rib 42, and the fifth rib 44 are provided on the support base part 28. The third rib 40 and the fourth rib 42 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D1. The fifth rib 44 extends radially outward from the weight-saving opening 32. A first end 44a of the fifth rib 44 is connected / bonded to a radial outer end 40a of the third rib 40. A second end 44b of the fifth rib 44 is connected / bonded to a radial outer end 42a of the fourth rib 42.

[0060] The first rib 36 and the second rib 38 are positioned between the third rib 40 and the fourth rib 42 in the circumferential direction D1. A first end 36a of the first rib 36 is connected / bonded to the radial outer end 40a of the third rib 40. A second end 36b of the first rib 36 is connected / bonded to a radial inner end 42b of the fourth rib 42. A first end 38a of the second rib 38 is connected to the radial outer end 42a of the fourth rib 42. A second end 38b of the second rib 38 is connected to a radial inner end 40b of the third rib 40. The radial inner end 40b of the third rib 40 is connected to the annular base section 25. The radial inner end 42b of the fourth rib 42 is connected to the annular base section 25. The first rib 36 and the second rib 38 are surrounded by the third rib 40, the fourth rib 42, the fifth rib 44 and the ring-shaped base section 25.

[0061] The intermediate support member 14 includes a first opening 46, a second opening 48, a third opening 50, and a fourth opening 52, which are defined by the first rib 36, the second rib 38, the third rib 40, the fourth rib 42, the fifth rib 44, and the annular base section 25. Each of the first opening 46, the second opening 48, the third opening 50, and the fourth opening 52 partially overlaps the weight-saving opening 32 when viewed from the axial direction D2.

[0062] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the weight-saving opening 32 partially overlaps each of the first opening 46, the second opening 48, the third opening 50, and the fourth opening 52 when viewed from the axial direction D2. The weight-saving opening 32 at least partially overlaps the first rib 36 and the second rib 38 of the reinforcing rib 34. The weight-saving opening 32 extends in a radial direction D3 of the rotatable or rotating annular bicycle component 10.

[0063] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the reinforcing rib 34 is at least partially positioned outside the weight-saving opening 32 in the axial direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing rib 34 is positioned completely outside the weight-saving opening 32 in the axial direction D2. However, the reinforcing rib 34 can also be positioned partially outside the weight-saving opening 32 in the axial direction D2.

[0064] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the hub engagement element 20 comprises an annular main body 54, an inner engagement part 56, and an outer engagement part 58. The annular main body 54 is provided around the rotational axis A of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The inner engagement part 56 is provided on an inner peripheral part of the annular main body 54. The inner engagement part 56 includes a first concave-convex structure 59, which is designed to engage with a concave-convex structure of the bicycle hub assembly 11 ( Fig. 1) to engage / come into engagement. The first concave-convex structure 59 includes spline teeth 60, or incisal teeth, which are arranged in the circumferential direction D1. The spline teeth 60 project radially inwards from the annular main body 54. The spline teeth 60 are designed to engage with the spline teeth 60 of the concave-convex structure of the bicycle hub assembly 11 ( Fig. 1) to interlock. The outer engagement part 58 is provided on an outer peripheral part of the annular main body 54. The outer engagement part 58 includes a second concave-convex structure 61, which is designed to engage with the intermediate support member 14 (or the sprocket support member). The second concave-convex structure 61 includes first projections 62, which are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The first projections 62 extend radially outwards from the annular main body 54.

[0065] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the intermediate support link 14 (or the sprocket support link) includes a third concave-convex structure 64, which is designed to match the second concave-convex structure 61 of the hub engagement link 20 ( Fig. 7) to engage / come into engagement. More specifically, the third concave-convex structure 64 includes second projections 66, which are provided on an inner peripheral part of the annular base section 25 of the intermediate support member 14. The second projections are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The second projections 66 interlock with the first projections 62 of the second concave-convex structure 61.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support member 14 (or the sprocket support member) is made of a resin material, such as fiber-reinforced plastic, and the hub engagement member 20 is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. Preferably, the intermediate support member 14 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 20 by an integral forming process. For example, the intermediate support member 14 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 20 by an injection molding process. Accordingly, the second projections 66 of the third concave-convex structure 64 have complementary shapes with the first projections 62 of the second concave-convex structure 61. Consequently, rotational force can be transmitted between the intermediate support member 14 and the hub engagement member 20.

[0067] Back to Fig. 6, in which a part of the hub engagement member 20 (e.g., the first projections 62 of the second concave-convex structure 61) is embedded in the annular base section 25 of the intermediate support member 14. The annular base section 25 of the intermediate support member 14 includes a first annular wall section 68 and a second annular wall section 70, which are provided on an inner peripheral part of the annular base section 25. The first annular wall section 68 is spaced from the second annular wall section 70 in the axial direction D2. The second projections 66 are provided between the first annular wall section 68 and the second annular wall section 70 in the axial direction D2. The protruding structures prevent the hub engagement member 20 from being unintentionally removed from the intermediate support member 14.

[0068] In the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10, the second material of the intermediate support member 14 differs from the first material of the ring-shaped outer member 12, and the third material of the hub engagement member 20 differs from the second material of the intermediate support member 14. Accordingly, the weight and / or stiffness of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 can be adjusted by changing the first material, the second material, and the third material.

[0069] In the case of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10, the weight-saving opening 32 can reduce the weight of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10. Furthermore, since the reinforcing rib 34 at least partially overlaps the weight-saving opening 32 when viewed from the axial direction D2, the necessary strength of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 can be maintained by the reinforcing rib 34. Second embodiment

[0070] A rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 is described below with reference to a second embodiment. Fig. 9 to 11. The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 has essentially the same configuration as the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10. Consequently, the elements which have essentially the same functions as those in the first embodiment are numbered with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described again in detail.

[0071] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 210 (or the rear bicycle chainring) comprises the annular outer link 12 (or a chainring link) and an intermediate support link 214 (or a chainring support link). The annular outer link 12 (or the chainring link) is configured to be attached to the intermediate support link 214 (the chainring support link). The rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 210 further comprises a hub engagement link 220, which is configured to be attached to the intermediate support link 214 (or the chainring support link). The hub engagement link 220 is configured to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 11 ( Fig. 1) to be / begin intervention.

[0072] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 further comprises at least one additional ring-shaped outer link, which includes sprocket teeth designed to engage with a bicycle chain. The at least one additional ring-shaped outer link is attached to the intermediate support link 214. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 comprises the additional ring-shaped outer links 22 and 223. The additional ring-shaped outer link 223 includes sprocket teeth 225, which are designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17 ( Fig. 1) to engage / engage. The sprocket teeth 225 are arranged in a circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210. The additional ring-shaped outer link 223 is coupled to the ring-shaped outer link 12 by using fasteners 219 (e.g., rivets).

[0073] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the intermediate support member 214 (or the sprocket support member) comprises a weight-saving opening and a reinforcing rib. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support member 214 comprises a plurality of weight-saving openings 32 and a plurality of reinforcing ribs 234; however, the annular outer member 212 may comprise at least one weight-saving opening 32 and at least one reinforcing rib 234.

[0074] The reinforcing rib 234 overlaps at least partially the weight-saving opening 32 when viewed from the axial direction D2 parallel to the axis of rotation A of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 (or of the rear bicycle chainring).

[0075] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the reinforcing rib 234 is at least partially positioned outside the weight-saving opening 32 in the axial direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing rib 234 is positioned completely outside the weight-saving opening 32 in the axial direction D2; however, the reinforcing rib 234 may also be positioned partially outside the weight-saving opening 32 in the axial direction D2.

[0076] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the hub engagement element 220 comprises the annular main body 54, the inner engagement part 56, and an outer engagement part 258. The outer engagement part 258 is provided on an outer peripheral part of the annular main body 54. The outer engagement part 258 includes a second concave-convex structure 261, which is designed to engage with the intermediate support element 214 (or the sprocket support element). The second concave-convex structure 261 includes first projections 262 and second projections 263. The first projections 262 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10. The second projections 263 are also arranged in the circumferential direction D1. The first projections 262 and the second projections 263 project radially outwards from the annular main body 54. The first projections 262 are spaced apart from the second projections 263 in the axial direction D2.

[0077] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the intermediate support member 214 (or the sprocket support member) includes a third concave-convex structure 264, which is designed to engage with the second concave-convex structure 261 of the hub engagement member 220. More specifically, the third concave-convex structure 264 includes third projections 266 and fourth projections 267, which are provided on an inner peripheral part of the annular base section 25 of the intermediate support member 214. The third projections 266 are located in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 210 ( Fig. 11) arranged. The fourth projections 267 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210. The third projections 266 interlock with the first projections 262 of the second concave-convex structure 261. The fourth projections 267 interlock with the second projections 263 of the second concave-convex structure 261.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support member 214 (or the sprocket support member) is made of a resin material, synthetic resin, or plastic, such as fiber-reinforced plastic, and the hub engagement member 220 is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. Preferably, the intermediate support member 214 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 220 by an integral forming process. For example, the intermediate support member 214 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 220 by an injection molding process. Accordingly, as shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figures 9 to 11, the third projections 266 of the third concave-convex structure 264 have complementary shapes or forms with the first projections 262 of the second concave-convex structure 261. Similarly, the fourth projections 267 of the third concave-convex structure 264 have complementary shapes or forms with the second projections 263 of the second concave-convex structure 261. Consequently, rotational force can be transmitted between the intermediate support member 214 and the hub engagement member 220.

[0079] Furthermore, a portion of the annular base section 25 of the intermediate support member 214 is provided between the first projections 262 and the second projections 263 of the second concave-convex structure 261. This structure prevents the hub engagement member 20 from being unintentionally removed from the intermediate support member 14.

[0080] In the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210, the second material of the intermediate support member 214 differs from the first material of the ring-shaped outer member 12, and the third material of the hub engagement member 220 differs from the second material of the intermediate support member 214. Accordingly, the weight and / or stiffness of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 can be adjusted by changing the first material, the second material, and the third material.

[0081] In the case of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210, the weight-saving opening 32 can reduce the weight of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210. Furthermore, since the reinforcing rib 234 at least partially overlaps the weight-saving opening 32 when viewed from the axial direction D2, the necessary strength of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 210 can be maintained by the reinforcing rib 234. Third embodiment

[0082] A rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 310 according to a third embodiment is described with reference to the Fig. 12 to 14. The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 310 has essentially the same configuration as the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10. Consequently, the elements which have essentially the same function as those of the aforementioned embodiments are numbered with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described again in detail.

[0083] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 310 (or the rear bicycle chainring) comprises the annular outer link 12 (or a chainring link) and an intermediate support link 314 (or a chainring support link). The annular outer link 12 (or the chainring link) is configured to be attached to the intermediate support link 314 (the chainring support link). The rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 310 further comprises a hub engagement link 320, which is configured to be attached to the intermediate support link 314 (or the chainring support link). The hub engagement link 320 is configured to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 11 ( Fig. 1) to be / begin intervention.

[0084] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 12, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 further comprises at least one additional ring-shaped outer link, which includes chainring teeth designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17 ( Fig. 1) to engage / come into engagement. The at least one additional annular outer member is attached to the intermediate support member 314. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 310 comprises the additional annular outer member 22. The additional annular outer member 22 is coupled to the intermediate support member 314 by using fasteners 18 (e.g., rivets).

[0085] As in the Fig. 12 and Fig. As shown in Figure 13, unlike the intermediate support member 14 in the first embodiment, the intermediate support member 314 (or the sprocket support member) does not include a weight-saving opening. The intermediate support member 314 comprises an annular base section 325 and support sections 326. Each of the support sections 326 projects radially outward from the annular base section 325. Each of the support sections 326 includes the sprocket mounting part 30. The weight-saving opening is not provided on the support sections 326.

[0086] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, the hub engagement element 320 comprises the annular main body 54, the inner engagement part 56, and an outer engagement part 358. The outer engagement part 358 is provided on an outer peripheral part of the annular main body 54. The outer engagement part 358 includes a second concave-convex structure 361, which is designed to engage with the intermediate support element 314 (or the sprocket support element). The second concave-convex structure 361 includes first projections 362, which are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 10.

[0087] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 13, the intermediate support member 314 (or the sprocket support member) includes a third concave-convex structure 364, which is designed to engage with the second concave-convex structure 361 of the hub engagement member 320. More specifically, the third concave-convex structure 364 includes second projections 366, which are provided on an inner peripheral part of the annular base section 325 of the intermediate support member 314. The second projections 366 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 310. The second projections 366 engage with the first projections 362 of the second concave-convex structure 361 ( Fig. 14) into each other.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support member 314 (or the sprocket support member) is made of a resin material, synthetic resin, or plastic, such as fiber-reinforced plastic, and the hub engagement member 320 is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. Preferably, the intermediate support member 314 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 320 by an integral forming process. For example, the intermediate support member 314 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 320 by an injection molding process. Accordingly, the second projections 366 of the third concave-convex structure 364 have complementary shapes or forms with the first projections 362 of the second concave-convex structure 361.

[0089] In the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 310, the second material of the intermediate support member 314 differs from the first material of the ring-shaped outer member 12, and the third material of the hub engagement member 320 differs from the second material of the intermediate support member 314. Accordingly, the weight and / or stiffness of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 310 can be adjusted by changing the first material, the second material, and the third material. Fourth embodiment

[0090] A rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 410 according to a fourth embodiment is described below with reference to the Fig. 15 and Fig. 16. The rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 410 has essentially the same configuration as the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 10, except for the structures of the annular outer member and the additional annular outer member. Consequently, the elements that have essentially the same function as those in the preceding embodiments are numbered with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described again in detail.

[0091] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 410 comprises a ring-shaped outer link 412, an intermediate support link 414, and the hub engagement link 20. The ring-shaped outer link 412 is attached to the intermediate support link 414. The ring-shaped outer link 412 includes sprocket teeth 416, which are designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17 ( Fig. 1) to engage / come into engagement. The hub engagement member 20 is designed to be attached to the intermediate support member 414 and is designed to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 11 ( Fig. 1) to engage / engage. The annular outer link 412 comprises the first material. The intermediate support link 414 comprises the second material, which is different from the first material. The hub engagement link 20 comprises the third material, which is different from the second material. The rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 410 further comprises an additional annular outer link 422, which includes chainring teeth 424 designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17 ( Fig. 1) to be / begin intervention.

[0092] The first material is a metallic material. For example, the first material includes iron and titanium. The second material is a non-metallic material. The second material is a resin, synthetic resin, or plastic. For example, fiber-reinforced plastic. The third material is a metallic material. For example, aluminum, iron, and titanium.

[0093] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 16, the annular outer link 412 (or the sprocket link) has a multi-layered structure made of different materials. More specifically, the annular outer link 412 (or the sprocket link) includes a first sprocket layer 470, a second sprocket layer 472, and a third sprocket layer 474.

[0094] The first sprocket layer 470 comprises the first material. The second sprocket layer 472 comprises a fourth material. The third sprocket layer 474 comprises a fifth material and is provided between the first sprocket layer 470 and the second sprocket layer 472. The first material comprises a metallic material. The fourth material comprises a metallic material. The fifth material comprises a non-metallic material.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the second and fifth materials comprise the resin material, such as fiber-reinforced plastic. The first sprocket layer 470, the second sprocket layer 472, and the third sprocket layer 474 are integrally formed with the intermediate support member 414. For example, the first sprocket layer 470, the second sprocket layer 472, and the third sprocket layer 474 are integrally formed with the intermediate support member 414 (or the sprocket support member) by an integral forming process.

[0096] Furthermore, the additional annular outer link 422 has a multilayered structure with different materials and includes a fourth sprocket layer 476, a fifth sprocket layer 478, and a sixth sprocket layer 480. The fourth sprocket layer 476 comprises a metallic material. The fifth sprocket layer 478 comprises a metallic material. The sixth sprocket layer 480 comprises a non-metallic material and is located between the fourth sprocket layer 476 and the fifth sprocket layer 478. In the illustrated embodiment, the sixth sprocket layer 480 comprises the resin material, such as fiber-reinforced plastic, as well as the intermediate support link 414 and the third sprocket layer 474. The fourth sprocket layer 476, the fifth sprocket layer 478, and the sixth sprocket layer 480 are integrally formed with the intermediate support link 414.For example, the fourth sprocket layer 476, the fifth sprocket layer 478, and the sixth sprocket layer 480 are integrally formed with the intermediate support member 414 by an integral forming process. Furthermore, the fourth sprocket layer 476 is connected to the first sprocket layer 470 by diffusion bonding. In the illustrated embodiment, an inner peripheral part of the fourth sprocket layer 476 is connected to an inner peripheral part of the first sprocket layer 470 by diffusion bonding.

[0097] In the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 410, the second material of the intermediate support member 414 differs from the first material of the ring-shaped outer member 412, and the third material of the hub engagement member 20 differs from the second material of the intermediate support member 414. Accordingly, the weight and / or stiffness of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 410 can be adjusted by changing the first material, the second material, and the third material. Fifth embodiment

[0098] A rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 510 according to a fifth embodiment is described below by reference to Fig. 17. The rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 510 has essentially the same configuration as the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 410, except for the structures of the annular outer member and the additional annular outer member. Consequently, the elements which have essentially the same function as those in the preceding embodiments are numbered with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described again in detail.

[0099] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 510 comprises an annular outer link 512 (or a chainring link), an intermediate support link 514 (or a chainring support link), and an additional annular outer link 522. The annular outer link 512 comprises the first material. The intermediate support link 514 comprises the second material, which is different from the first. The hub engagement link 20 comprises the third material, which is different from the second. The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 510 further comprises an additional annular outer link 522, which includes chainring teeth 524 designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17 ( Fig. 1) to be / begin intervention.

[0100] The first material comprises a metallic material. For example, the first material comprises iron and titanium. The second material comprises a non-metallic material. For example, the second material comprises a resin material. Preferably, the second material comprises fiber-reinforced plastic. The third material comprises a metallic material. For example, the third material comprises aluminum, iron, and titanium.

[0101] Similar to the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 410 according to the fourth embodiment, the ring-shaped outer link 512 (or the chainring link) has a multi-layered or multi-layered structure with different materials. More specifically, the ring-shaped outer link 512 (or the chainring link) includes a first chainring layer 570, a second chainring layer 572, and a third chainring layer 574.

[0102] The first sprocket layer 570 comprises the first material. The second sprocket layer 572 comprises a fourth material. The third sprocket layer 574 comprises a fifth material and is positioned between the first sprocket layer 570 and the second sprocket layer 572. The first material is different from the fifth material. The fourth material is different from the fifth material. For example, each of the first, fourth, and fifth materials comprises a metallic material. The first sprocket layer 570 is bonded to the third sprocket layer 574 by adhesive. The second sprocket layer 572 is bonded to the third sprocket layer 574 by adhesive. The fifth material can be a non-metallic material, such as a resin material.

[0103] Furthermore, the additional annular outer link 522 has a multilayered structure with different materials and includes a fourth sprocket layer 576, a fifth sprocket layer 578, and a sixth sprocket layer 580. The fourth sprocket layer 576 comprises a material that is different from the material of the sixth sprocket layer 580. The fifth sprocket layer 578 comprises a material that is different from the material of the sixth sprocket layer 580. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth sprocket layer 576 comprises a metallic material. The fifth sprocket layer 578 comprises a metallic material. The sixth sprocket layer 580 comprises a metallic material that is different from the metallic material of each of the fourth sprocket layers 576 and the fifth sprocket layer 578.The sixth sprocket layer 580 is positioned between the fourth sprocket layer 576 and the fifth sprocket layer 578. The fourth sprocket layer 576 is bonded to the sixth sprocket layer 580 by adhesive. The fifth sprocket layer 582 is bonded to the sixth sprocket layer 580 by adhesive.

[0104] Furthermore, the intermediate element 581 is provided between the annular outer element 512 and the additional annular outer element 522. For example, the intermediate element 581 is made of a metallic material. The intermediate element 581 has an annular shape and is bonded to each of the annular outer element 512 and the additional annular outer element 522 by means of an adhesive. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate element 581 is bonded to each of the first sprocket layer 570 and the fourth sprocket layer 576 by means of an adhesive.

[0105] In the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 510, the second material of the intermediate support member 514 differs from the first material of the ring-shaped outer member 512, and the third material of the hub engagement member 20 differs from the second material of the intermediate support member 514. Accordingly, the weight and / or stiffness of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 510 can be adjusted by changing the first material, the second material, and the third material.

[0106] If each of the first, fourth, and fifth materials comprises a metallic material, the first sprocket layer 570 can be joined to the third sprocket layer 574 by diffusion bonding instead of adhesive. The second sprocket layer 572 is joined to the third sprocket layer 574 by diffusion bonding instead of adhesive. The diffusion bonding can be applied to the additional annular outer link 522. Sixth embodiment

[0107] A rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 610 according to a sixth embodiment is described below with reference to Fig. 18. Unlike the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 10 according to the first embodiment, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 610 comprises a disc rotor. Consequently, the elements, which have essentially the same function as those in the preceding embodiments, are numbered with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described again in detail.

[0108] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 610 comprises an annular outer member 612, an intermediate support member 614, and the hub engagement member 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the annular outer member 612 includes a disc rotor body of a bicycle disc brake system. The annular outer member 612 is attached to the intermediate support member 614. The annular outer member 612 is coupled to the intermediate support member 614 by means of fasteners 618 (e.g., rivets). The annular outer member 612 comprises a first material. The intermediate support member 614 comprises a second material, which is different from the first material. The hub engagement member 20 is configured to be attached to the intermediate support member 614 and is configured to engage with a bicycle hub assembly 611.The hub engagement element 20 comprises a third material which is different from the second material.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate support member 614 is made of a resin material, such as fiber-reinforced plastic, and the hub engagement member 20 is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. Preferably, the intermediate support member 614 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 20 by an integral forming process. For example, the intermediate support member 614 is integrally formed with the hub engagement member 20 by an injection molding process as in the first embodiment.

[0110] In the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 610, the second material of the intermediate support member 614 differs from the first material of the ring-shaped outer member 612, and the third material of the hub engagement member 20 differs from the second material of the intermediate support member 614. Accordingly, the weight and / or stiffness of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 610 can be adjusted by changing the first material, the second material, and the third material. Seventh embodiment

[0111] A rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 710 according to a seventh embodiment is described below by reference to the Fig. The rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 710 has essentially the same configuration as the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 10, except for the arrangement of coupling sections of the annular outer member and the intermediate support member. Consequently, the elements that have essentially the same function as those in the preceding embodiments are numbered with the same reference numerals and, for the sake of brevity, are not described again in detail.

[0112] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 19, the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 710 comprises a ring-shaped outer link 712 (or a chainring link) and an intermediate support link 714 (or a chainring support link). The rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component 710 further comprises the hub engagement link 20, which is configured to be attached to the intermediate support link 714 (or the chainring support link) and is configured to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 11 ( Fig. 1) to engage / engage. The annular outer link 712 (or the sprocket link) comprises the first material. The intermediate support link 714 (or the sprocket support link) comprises the second material, which is different from the first material. The hub engagement link 20 comprises the third material, which is different from the second material.

[0113] As in the Fig. 19 and Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the annular outer link 712 (or the sprocket link) comprises sprocket teeth 16 and a plurality of coupling sections 717, 719, 721, 723, 725, and 727. The sprocket teeth 16 are designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17. The coupling sections 717, 719, 721, 723, 725, and 727 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable annular bicycle component 710. The coupling sections 717, 719, 721, 723, 725, and 727 are arranged, at least partially, in the circumferential direction D1 at irregular intervals.

[0114] More specifically, a distance P1 is defined between each of the coupling sections 717 and 719, between coupling sections 719 and 721, between coupling sections 721 and 723, between coupling sections 725 and 727, and between coupling sections 727 and 717. A distance P2 is defined between coupling sections 723 and 725, which is different from the distance P1. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance P2 is greater than the distance P1. As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 20, the distances P1 and P2 are defined based on the centers of the mooring holes 729 of the annular outer member 712. The mooring holes 729 are provided at the coupling sections 717, 719, 721, 723, 725, and 727. The mooring lines 18 extend through the mooring holes 729.

[0115] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the intermediate support link 714 (or the sprocket support link) includes sprocket mounting parts 731, 733, 735, 737, 739, and 741, to which the coupling sections 717, 719, 721, 723, 725, and 727 are attached. The sprocket mounting parts are arranged at least partially in the circumferential direction at irregular intervals / distributions.

[0116] More specifically, the distance P1 is defined between sprocket mounting parts 731 and 733, between sprocket mounting parts 733 and 735, between sprocket mounting parts 735 and 737, between sprocket mounting parts 739 and 741, and between sprocket mounting parts 741 and 731. The distance P2 is defined between sprocket mounting parts 737 and 739, which differs from the distance P1. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance P2 is greater than the distance P1. The distances P1 and P2 are defined based on the centers of the mooring holes 743 of the intermediate support link 714. The mooring holes 743 are provided on the sprocket mounting parts 731, 733, 735, 737, 739, and 741, respectively. The mooring lines 18 each extend through the mooring holes 743.

[0117] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 22, the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 710 further comprises an annular outer link 722 (or the sprocket link). The annular outer link 722 (or the sprocket link) comprises the first material. The annular outer link 722 (or the sprocket link) comprises the sprocket teeth 24 and a plurality of coupling sections 745, 747, 749, 751, 753, and 755. The sprocket teeth 24 are designed to engage with the bicycle chain 17. The coupling sections 745, 747, 749, 751, 753, and 755 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 of the rotatable or rotatable annular bicycle component 710. The coupling sections 745, 747, 749, 751, 753 and 755 are arranged at least partially in the circumferential direction D1 at irregular intervals / distributions.

[0118] More specifically, the distance P1 is defined between coupling sections 745 and 747, between coupling sections 747 and 749, between coupling sections 749 and 751, between coupling sections 743 and 755, and between coupling sections 755 and 745. The distance P2 is defined between coupling sections 751 and 753, which differs from the distance P1. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance P2 is greater than the distance P1. The distances P1 and P2 are defined based on the centers of the mooring holes 757 of the annular outer member 722. The mooring holes 757 are provided at coupling sections 745, 747, 749, 751, 753, and 755, respectively. The mooring lines 18 each extend through the mooring holes 757.According to the seventh embodiment, since the coupling sections of the sprocket link are at least partially arranged in the circumferential direction at irregular intervals / distributions, it is possible to obtain another relatively large sprocket next to a sprocket made of conventional metallic sheet material in a stamping process.

[0119] For a person skilled in the field of bicycles, it will be evident from the present disclosure that the structures of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to the first to fifth and seventh embodiments can be applied to disc rotors if required and / or desired.

[0120] In the foregoing embodiments, the term "attached" or "fastening," as used herein, encompasses configurations in which one element is directly attached to another by means of direct attachment of the element to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other element via the intermediate element; and configurations in which one element is integrally formed with another element, i.e., one element is substantially part of the other element. This concept is also applied to words of similar meaning, for example, "connected," "joined," "coupled," "mounted," "glued," "fixed," and their derivatives.

[0121] The term "comprehensive" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open terms that specify the presence of the mentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other, unmentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept is also applied to words with similar meanings, for example, the terms "exhibit," "include," and their derivatives.

[0122] Furthermore, the terms “link”, “section”, “section”, “part” or “element”, when used in the singular, can have the plural meaning of a single part or a multitude of parts.

[0123] The ordinal numbers, such as "first" and "second" as cited in the present application, are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as indicating a particular order or anything similar. Furthermore, the term "first element," for example, does not imply the existence of a "second element," and the term "second element" itself does not imply the existence of a "first element."

[0124] Finally, the magnitude terms such as "essentially", "by" and "approximately", as used herein, represent a reasonable amount of deviation from the modified term, such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0125] Naturally, numerous modifications and variants of the present invention are possible in light of the above-mentioned teachings. It should therefore be understood that, within the scope of protection of the appended claims, the invention may be implemented in ways other than those specifically described herein.

Claims

[1] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component comprising: an outer ring member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712), comprising a first material; an intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) to which the outer ring member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) is attached, wherein the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) comprises a second material different from the first; and a hub engagement member (20; 220; 320) which is designed to be attached to the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714), and is designed to engage with a bicycle hub assembly (11), wherein the hub engagement member (20; 220; 320) comprises a third material different from the second material; and wherein the third material comprises a material different from the first material. [2] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the outer ring member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) includes chainring teeth (16; 24; 225; 416; 424; 524) which are designed to engage with a bicycle chain (17). [3] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: at least one additional outer ring link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) which includes sprocket teeth (16; 24; 225; 416; 424; 524) designed to engage with a bicycle chain (17), wherein that at least one additional outer ring member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) is attached to the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714). [4] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the hub engagement element (20; 220; 320) includes: a ring-shaped main body (54) which is provided around a rotational axis (A) of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, and an inner engagement part (56) which is provided to an inner peripheral part of the ring-shaped main body (54) and includes a first concave-convex structure (59) designed to engage with a concave-convex structure of the bicycle hub arrangement (11). [5] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 4, wherein the hub engagement member (20; 220; 320) includes an outer engagement part (58; 258; 358) which is provided on an outer peripheral part of the ring-shaped main body (54) and includes a second concave-convex structure (61; 261; 361) which is configured to engage with the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714). [6] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 5, wherein the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) includes a third concave-convex structure (64; 264; 364) which is configured to engage with the second concave-convex structure of the hub engagement member (20; 220; 320). [7] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first material comprises a metallic material, in particular one of iron and titanium; and / or wherein the second material comprises a non-metallic material, in particular a resin material or fiber-reinforced plastic; and / or wherein the third material comprises a metallic material, in particular one of aluminium, iron and titanium. [8] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the ring-shaped outer member (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522;712) has a multi-layered structure with different materials. [9] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 8, wherein the ring-shaped outer member comprises (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) a first sprocket layer (470; 570), which comprises the first material, a second sprocket layer (472; 572), which comprises a fourth material, and a third sprocket layer (474; 574) comprising a fifth material and provided between the first sprocket layer (470; 570) and the second sprocket layer (472; 572), wherein the first material comprises a metallic material, the fourth material comprises a metallic material, and The fifth material comprises a non-metallic material, in particular a resin material. [10] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 9, wherein the second material and the fifth material comprise the resin material, and the first sprocket layer (470; 570), the second sprocket layer (472; 572) and the third sprocket layer (474; 574) are formed integrally with the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714), and / or are formed integrally with the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) by an integral forming process. [11] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 9, further comprising: an additional ring-shaped outer link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712), comprising sprocket teeth (16; 24; 225; 416; 424; 524), which are designed to engage with a bicycle chain (17), wherein the additional ring-shaped outer element (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) has a multi-layered structure with different materials and includes a fourth sprocket layer (476; 576) comprising a metallic material, a fifth sprocket layer (478; 578) comprising a metallic material, and a sixth sprocket layer (480; 580) comprising a non-metallic material and between the fourth sprocket layer (476; 576) and the fifth sprocket layer (478; 578), and wherein the fourth sprocket layer (476; 576) is connected to the first sprocket layer (470; 570) by diffusion connection. [12] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 8, wherein the ring-shaped outer member comprises (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) a first sprocket layer (470; 570) comprising the first material, a second sprocket layer (472; 572) comprising a fourth material, and a third sprocket layer (474; 574) comprising a fifth material and provided between the first sprocket layer (470; 570) and the second sprocket layer (472; 572), wherein either a) the first sprocket layer (470; 570) is bonded to the third sprocket layer (474; 574) by adhesive, and the second sprocket layer (472; 572) is bonded to the third sprocket layer (474; 574) by adhesive; or b) the first sprocket layer (470; 570) is connected to the third sprocket layer (474; 574) by diffusion connection, and the second sprocket layer (472; 572) is connected to the third sprocket layer (474; 574) by diffusion connection, each of the first material, the fourth material and the fifth material comprising a metallic material. [13] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) includes a weight-saving opening (32). [14] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 13, in which the intermediate support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) includes a reinforcing rib (34; 234) which at least partially overlaps the weight-saving opening (32) when viewed from an axial direction (D2) parallel to a rotation center axis (A) of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, in particular the reinforcing rib (34; 234) is provided at least partially outside the weight-saving opening (32) in the axial direction (D2). [15] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component comprises a disc rotor. [16] Rear bicycle chainring including: a sprocket link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) comprising sprocket teeth (16; 24; 225; 416; 424; 524) which are designed to engage with a bicycle chain (17); and a sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) to which the sprocket link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) is attached, the sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) comprising: a weight-saving opening (32); and a reinforcing rib (34; 234) which at least partially overlaps the weight-saving opening (32) when viewed from an axial direction (D2) parallel to a rotational center axis (A) of the rear bicycle chainring, wherein the reinforcing rib (34; 234) is provided at least completely outside the weight-saving opening (32) in the axial direction (D2). [17] Rear bicycle chainring according to claim 16, wherein the sprocket link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) comprises a first material, the sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) comprises a second material, the first material comprises a metallic material, and The second material comprises a non-metallic material, in particular a resin material and / or fiber-reinforced plastic. [18] Rear bicycle chainring according to one of claims 16 to 17, further comprising: a hub engagement link (20; 220; 320) which is designed to be attached to the sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) and which is designed to engage with / interact with a bicycle hub assembly (11), wherein the hub engagement element (20; 220; 320) comprises a third material, and The third material comprises a metallic material, in particular the third material comprises one of aluminium, iron and titanium. [19] Rear bicycle chainring according to claim 18, wherein the hub engagement element (20; 220; 320) includes a ring-shaped main body (54) which is provided around the rotational center axis (A) of the rear bicycle chainring, and an inner engagement part (56) which is provided on an inner peripheral part of the ring-shaped main body (54) and includes a first concave-convex structure (59) which is designed to engage with a concave-convex structure of a bicycle hub assembly (11). [20] Rear bicycle chainring according to claim 19, wherein the hub engagement member (20; 220; 320) includes an outer engagement part (58; 258; 358) which is provided on an outer peripheral part of the annular main body (54) and includes a second concave-convex structure (61; 261; 361) which is configured to engage with the chainring support member (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714). [21] Rear bicycle chainring according to one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the chainring link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) has a multilayer structure with different materials. [22] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 15 comprising: a sprocket link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712), comprising Sprocket teeth (16; 24; 225; 416; 424; 524) which are designed to engage with a bicycle chain (17); and a plurality of coupling sections (717, 719, 721, 723, 725, 727; 745, 747, 749, 751, 753, 755) which are arranged in a circumferential direction (D1) of the rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component, wherein the coupling sections (717, 719, 721, 723, 725, 727; 745, 747, 749, 751, 753, 755) are at least partially arranged in the circumferential direction (D1) at an irregular spacing / distribution; and a sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) comprising sprocket mounting parts (731, 733, 735, 737, 739, 741) to which the coupling sections (717, 719, 721, 723, 725, 727; 745, 747, 749, 751, 753, 755) are attached. [23] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 22, in which the chain wheel mounting parts (731, 733, 735, 737, 739, 741) are arranged at least partially in the circumferential direction (D1) at an irregular distance / distribution. [24] Rotatable or rotatable ring-shaped bicycle component according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising: a hub engagement link (20; 220; 320) which is designed to be attached to the sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714), and is designed to engage with a bicycle hub assembly (11), wherein the sprocket link (12; 22; 212; 412; 422; 512; 522; 712) comprises a first material, the sprocket support link (14; 214; 314; 414; 524; 714) comprises a second material different from the first material, and the hub engagement element (20; 220; 320) comprises a third material different from the second material.

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