bicycle control device

Abstract

bicycle control device (10) comprising: a basic member (12); an operating arrangement (14) which is coupled to the base element (12); a wire receiving element (30) which is designed to be rotatable with respect to the base element (12) about an axis of rotation (A0) in a first direction (D11) and a second direction (D12) which is opposite to the first direction (D11); a ratchet link (32) which has ratchet teeth (32a) and is designed to be rotatable with the wire receiving link (30) between a plurality of predetermined positions; a first pawl (34) which is designed to engage with one of the ratchet teeth (32a) in order to rotate the wire receiving element (30) in the first direction (D11) following a first operation of the operating arrangement (14); and an actuating element (36) which includes a second pawl (36a), wherein the actuating element (36) is designed to move the first pawl (34) away from the ratchet element (32) and to engage the second pawl (36a) with one of the ratchet teeth (32a) following a second actuation of the operating arrangement (14).

Description

Background of the invention

[0001] This invention claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 14 / 207,499, filed March 12, 2014. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application No. 14 / 207,499 is hereby incorporated by reference. Field of the invention

[0002] The present invention relates to a bicycle operating device. Discussion of the background

[0003] Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of recreational activity as well as a popular means of transportation. Furthermore, cycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Regardless of the bicycle's use for recreation, transportation, or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving various components. One bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is the bicycle control device.

[0004] The German patent application DE 60 2005 005 406 T2 describes a switching control device comprising a base plate, a winding lever arrangement, a receiving element, a positioning lock with positioning teeth, a positioning pawl and a release lever with a movement limiting element.

[0005] The German patent application DE 10 2012 216 713 A1 describes a bicycle operating device with a position maintaining arrangement that selectively holds a movable element in any one of a plurality of holding positions with respect to a stationary element.

[0006] US 5 832 782 A discloses a combined brake and shift control device comprising a brake lever housing, a brake lever pivotally connected to the brake lever housing, a shift housing, a ratchet mechanism arranged in the shift housing, one or more shift levers connected to the ratchet mechanism such that the ratchet mechanism rotates in response to the movement of the shift lever(s), and a shaft connected to the ratchet mechanism for common rotation. OVERVIEW OF THE INVENTION

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device comprises a base member, an operating assembly, a wire-receiving member, a ratchet member, a first pawl, and an actuating member. The operating assembly is coupled to the base member. The wire-receiving member is configured to be rotatable with respect to the base member about a rotation axis in a first direction and in a second direction opposite the first direction. The ratchet member has ratchet teeth and is configured to be rotatable with respect to the wire-receiving member between a plurality of predetermined positions. The first pawl is configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth to rotate the wire-receiving member in the first direction following a first actuation of the operating assembly. The actuating member includes a second pawl.The actuating member is configured to move the first pawl away from the ratchet member and to engage the second pawl with one of the ratchet teeth following a second actuation of the operating arrangement.

[0008] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the actuating member is configured such that the second pawl moves the first pawl away from the ratchet member and engages one of the ratchet teeth that is adjacent to the first pawl in the first direction.

[0009] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the first pawl includes a first contact surface. The second pawl may include a second surface configured to slidably engage the first contact surface to move the first pawl away from the ratchet member.

[0010] Preferably, the bicycle operating device further comprises a third pawl configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth of the ratchet member to position the ratchet member in one of a plurality of predetermined positions.

[0011] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is designed such that the actuating member is designed to release the third pawl from the ratchet member following the second operation.

[0012] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the actuating member includes a first part and a second part. The first part may be configured to be pivotable relative to the base member about a first actuating axis and includes the second pawl. The second part may be configured to be pivotable relative to the base member about a second actuating axis. The first actuating axis may be different from the second actuating axis.

[0013] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is designed such that the first actuation axis is parallel to the second actuation axis.

[0014] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the second part of the actuating member is configured to release the third pawl from the ratchet member following the second operation.

[0015] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the second part is configured to pivot the first part such that the second pawl moves the first pawl away from the ratchet member and to prevent or inhibit rotation of the wire take-up member in the second direction.

[0016] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the operating arrangement includes a first operating member and a second operating member. The first operating member may be configured to be movable relative to the base member to provide the first operating mechanism. The second operating member may be configured to be movable relative to the base member to provide the second operating mechanism.

[0017] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the second operating member is pivotable relative to the base member in a first operating direction and a second operating direction opposite to the first operating direction. The second operating member may be configured to actuate the actuating member when the second operating member is pivoted in each of the first operating direction and the second operating direction.

[0018] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the second operating member is configured to pivot about a first pivot axis in the first operating direction and to pivot about a second axis in the second operating direction. The first pivot axis is different from the second pivot axis.

[0019] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is designed such that the first pivot axis is parallel to the second pivot axis.

[0020] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is designed such that the second pivot axis is coaxial with the rotation axis of the wire receiving member.

[0021] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the operating member is configured to be pivotable relative to the base member about a third pivot axis. The third pivot axis may be coaxial with the first pivot axis of the second operating member.

[0022] Preferably, the bicycle operating device is configured such that the first pawl is provided on the first operating member so as to be pivotable about a fourth pivot axis. The first operating member can be pivotable relative to the base member about the rotational axis of the wire receiving member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] A full appreciation of the invention and many of the anticipated advantages of the invention will be readily obtained by better understanding the invention by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle operating device according to a first embodiment; Fig. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a part of a bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a part of a bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a part of a bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a part of a bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of a part of a bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view of a part of the bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. Figure 8 is a plan view of a part of the bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a part of the bicycle operating device as shown in Fig. 1 shown; Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an operation of the bicycle operating device as shown in the Fig. 1 is shown; and Fig. 19 is a plan view of a part of a bicycle operating device according to a second embodiment. Description of the embodiments

[0024] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the several drawings. First embodiment

[0025] With initial reference to the Fig. 1, a bicycle operating device 10 according to a first embodiment is illustrated. The bicycle operating device 10 is configured to be attached to a bicycle handlebar (not shown) for operating a bicycle component via a control cable 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured to operate a bicycle transmission (not shown) such as a front derailleur and an internally shifted hub gear. Since such bicycle components are well known in the bicycle field, they will not be described in further detail here for the sake of brevity. The bicycle operating device 10 is a right-hand bicycle operating device configured to be operated by the right hand of a cyclist.However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from the present disclosure that the configuration of the bicycle operating device 10 may also be applied in the case of a left-hand bicycle operating device.

[0026] In the present application, the following directional terms "forward," "backward," "left," "right," "backward," and "downward," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to directions determined based on a user (e.g., a cyclist) sitting on a saddle (not shown) of a bicycle facing the bicycle handlebars (not shown). Accordingly, these terms, as used to describe the bicycle operating device 10, should be understood with reference to a bicycle equipped with the bicycle operating device 10 being used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

[0027] As in the Fig. 1, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a base member 12 and an operating assembly or construct 14. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle handlebar (not shown) by means of a mounting structure (not shown), such as a clamp structure. Since such mounting structures are well known in the bicycle art, they will not be described in further detail here for the sake of brevity. The base member 12 includes a housing 16 and a support structure 18. The support structure 18 is secured to the housing 16 and is provided within the interior of the housing 16.

[0028] The operating assembly or operating structure 14 is coupled to the base member 12. In particular, the operating assembly 14 is movably coupled to the base member 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating assembly 14 includes a first operating member 20 and a second operating member 22. However, the operating assembly 14 may include a single operating member instead of the first operating member 20 and the second operating member 22 if needed and / or desired. The first operating member 20 is pivotally coupled to the support structure 18. The second operating member 22 is pivotally coupled to the support structure 18.

[0029] As in the Fig. 2, the support structure 18 includes a base plate 24, a first support member 26 and a second support member 28. The base plate 24, the first support member 26 and the second support member 28 are secured to the housing 16 (see the Fig. 1) with fasteners (not shown) such as bolts and screws. The first support member 26 pivotally supports the first operating member 20 and the second operating member 22.

[0030] The bicycle operating device 10 comprises a wire receiving member 30. The wire receiving member 30 is configured to be rotatable with respect to the base member 12 (see the Fig. 1) about a rotation axis A0 in a first direction D11 and a second direction D12 opposite the first direction D11. In the illustrated embodiment, the wire take-up member 30 is rotatable relative to the support structure 18 about the rotation axis A0 in a rotation direction D1. The rotation direction D1 includes the first direction D11 and the second direction D12. The second support member 28 rotatably supports the wire take-up member 30 about the rotation axis A0.

[0031] The wire take-up member 30 includes a wire fastener portion 30a to which one end of an inner wire 2a of the control cable 2 is to be fastened. The wire take-up member 30 includes a guide groove 30b configured to guide the inner wire 2a when the wire take-up member 30 rotates with respect to the support structure 18 (ie, the base member 12) to wind or unwind the inner wire 2a.

[0032] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a ratchet member 32. The ratchet member 32 has ratchet teeth 32a and is configured to be rotatable with the wire take-up member 30 between a plurality of predetermined positions. The predetermined positions are defined by the ratchet teeth 32a.

[0033] The ratchet member 32 includes an annular body 32b and inner teeth 32e protruding from the inner periphery of the annular body 32b. The ratchet teeth 32a are provided on an outer periphery of the annular body 32b. The wire take-up member 30 includes a spline 30c. The inner teeth 32e engage with the spline 30c of the wire take-up member 30, so that the ratchet member 32, together with the wire take-up member 30, is rotatable about the rotational axis A0 in the rotational direction D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the ratchet member 32 is a separate member from the wire take-up member 30. However, the ratchet member 32 may be provided integrally with the wire take-up member 30 as a single unitary member if needed and / or desired.

[0034] As in the Fig. 2, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a first pawl 34. The first pawl 34 is configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth 32a to rotate the wire take-up member 30 in the first direction D11 following a first operation of the operating assembly 14. The first operating member 20 is configured to be movable relative to the base member 12 (see the Fig. 1) to provide the first operating. In the illustrated embodiment, the first operating member 20 is pivotable with respect to the base member 12 (see the Fig. 1) around the rotation axis A0 of the wire take-up member 30 in a pivoting direction D2 to provide the first operation.

[0035] As in the Fig. 2, the bicycle operating device 10 includes an actuating member 36. The actuating member 36 includes a second pawl 36a. The actuating member 36 is configured, following a second actuation of the actuating assembly 14, to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32 and engage the second pawl 36 with one of the ratchet teeth 32a to prevent or inhibit rotation of the wire take-up member 30 in the second direction D12. The second actuating member 22 is configured to be movable with respect to the base member 12 to provide the second actuation. In the illustrated embodiment, the second actuating member 22 is configured to be pivotable with respect to the support structure 18 to provide the second actuation.

[0036] The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a third pawl 38 configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth 32a of the ratchet member 32 to position the ratchet member 32 in one of a plurality of predetermined positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined positions of the ratchet member 32 are rotational positions in the rotational direction D1.

[0037] As in the Fig. 3, the second operating member 22 is pivotable with respect to the base member 12 (see the Fig. 1) in a first operating direction D31 and a second operating direction D32, which is opposite to the first operating direction D31. The second operating member 22 is configured to be pivotable about a first pivot axis A1 in the first operating direction D31 and about a second pivot axis A2 in the second operating direction D32. In the illustrated embodiment, the second operation of the second operating member 22 includes at least one of a first pivoting movement of the second operating member 22 in the first operating direction D31 and a second pivoting movement of the second operating member 22 in the second operating direction D32. The first pivot axis A1 differs from the second pivot axis A2. The first pivot axis A1 is parallel to the second pivot axis A2. The second pivot axis A2 is coaxial with the rotation axis A0 of the wire take-up member 30 (see the Fig. 2).

[0038] Specifically, the first support member 26 includes a first base portion 26a, a first shaft portion 26b, and a second shaft portion 26c. The first shaft portion 26b protrudes from the first base portion 26a in an axial direction D0 corresponding to the rotation axis A0. The first shaft portion 26b pivotally supports the first operating member 20 about the rotation axis A0. The first shaft portion 26b pivotally supports the second operating member 22 about the second pivot axis A2 (i.e., the rotation axis A0).

[0039] The actuating member 36 is configured to be pivotable relative to the base member 12 about a third pivot axis A3. The third pivot axis A3 is coaxial with the first pivot axis A1 of the second actuating member 22. In particular, the second shaft portion 26c protrudes from the first base portion 26a in the axial direction D0. The second shaft portion 26c pivotally supports the actuating member 36 about the third pivot axis A3.

[0040] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the first pawl 34 is pivotally provided on the first operating member 20 about a fourth pivot axis A4. The fourth pivot axis A4 is parallel to the rotation axis A0 and the second pivot axis A2. The first operating member 20 includes a first lever plate 20a and a shaft part 20b. The shaft part 20b protrudes from the first lever plate 20a in the axial direction D0. The shaft part 20b pivotally supports the first pawl 34 about the fourth pivot axis A4.

[0041] The third pawl 38 is configured to be pivotable relative to the base member 12 about a fifth pivot axis A5. Specifically, the first support member 26 includes a third shaft portion 26d. The third shaft portion 26d protrudes from the first base portion 26a in the axial direction D0. The third shaft portion 26d pivotally supports the third pawl 38 about the fifth pivot axis A5. The fifth pivot axis A5 is parallel to the rotation axis A0.

[0042] As in the Fig. 4, the first pawl 34 includes a first pawl body 34a and a first contact part 34b. The first contact part 34b protrudes from the first pawl body 34a in the axial direction D0. The first operating member 20 includes a second contact part 20c contactable by the first contact part 34b. The first pawl 34 is biased by a first biasing member (not shown) to pivot with respect to the first operating member 20 in a first pivoting direction D51. The first contact part 34b is pressed against the second contact part 20c by a first biasing force F1 of the first biasing member. The first pawl 34 is movable together with the first operating member 20 about the second pivot axis A2 (i.e., the rotation axis A0) in the pivoting direction D2. The pivoting direction D2 includes a first pivoting direction D21 and a second pivoting direction D22, which is opposite to the first pivoting direction D21.For example, the first actuation of the first actuating member 20 results in a pivoting movement of the first actuating member 20 in the first pivoting direction D21. The first pawl 34 is rotatable relative to the first actuating member 20 in a second pivoting direction D52 counter to the first preload force F1 of the first preloading member. The second pivoting direction D52 is opposite to the first pivoting direction D51.

[0043] As in the Fig. 4, the first operating member 20 includes a through hole 20d. The first shaft portion 26b extends through the through hole 20d to pivotally support the first operating member 20 with respect to the first support member 26 (i.e., the base member 12, as shown in Fig. 1) around the axis of rotation A0.

[0044] As in the Fig. 5, the first operating member 20 includes a contact portion 20e protruding from the first lever plate 20a. The base plate 24 includes a base body 24a and a stopper 24b. As shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 5, the stopper 24b protrudes from the base body 24a in the axial direction D0. As shown in the Fig. 5, the contact portion 20e can be contacted by means of the stopper 24b. The first operating member 20 is biased by a second biasing member (not shown) to pivot with respect to the base plate 24 about the rotation axis A0 in the second pivoting direction D22. The contact portion 20e is pressed against the stopper 24b by a second biasing force F2 of the second biasing member. The stopper 24b is configured to prevent the first operating member 20 from pivoting with respect to the base plate 24 about the rotation axis A0 in the second pivoting direction D22 to position the first operating member 20 at a first rest position P10. The first operating member 20 is rotatable with respect to the base plate 24 about the rotation axis A0 in the first pivoting direction D21 against the second biasing force F2 of the second biasing member.

[0045] In the present application, the term "rest position" as used herein refers to a position at which a movable part, such as the first operating member 20 and the second operating member 22, remains stationary in a state in which the movable part is not operated by the user. The term "operated position" as used herein refers to a position at which the movable part has been operated by the user to perform the operation of the bicycle component.

[0046] As in the Fig. 5, the operating member 36 can be contacted with the stopper 24b. Specifically, the operating member 36 includes an operating main body 36b and a projection 36c. The second pawl 36a protrudes from the operating main body 36b in the axial direction D0. The projection 36c protrudes from the operating main body 36b. The projection 36c is contactable by the stopper 24b. The operating member 36 is biased by a third biasing member (not shown) to pivot with respect to the base plate 24 in a first pivoting direction D71. The projection 36c is pressed against the stopper 24b by a third biasing force F3 of the third biasing member. The stopper 24b is configured to prevent the actuator 36 from pivoting relative to the base plate 24 in the first pivoting direction D71 to position the actuator 36 at an initial position P20.The actuating member 36 is pivotable relative to the base plate 24 about the third pivot axis A3 in a second pivot direction D72 counter to the third preload force F3 of the third preload member. The second pivot direction D72 is opposite to the first pivot direction D71.

[0047] The actuating member 36 is configured to release the third pawl 38 from the ratchet member 32 following the second actuation. In particular, the third pawl 38 closes, as shown in the Fig. 3, a third pawl body 38a and a third contact part 38b. The third contact part 38b protrudes from the third pawl body 38a in the axial direction D0. The third pawl 38 is biased by a fourth biasing member (not shown) to pivot relative to the first support member 26 in a first pivot direction D81. The third pawl 38 is pivotable relative to the first support member 26 about the fifth axis A5 in a second pivot direction D82 against a fourth biasing force A4 of the fourth projection member. The second pivot direction D82 is opposite to the first pivot direction D81.

[0048] Returning to the Fig. 5, the operating member 36 includes an operating portion 36d configured to be contactable by the third pawl 38. The operating portion 36d is substantially opposite the second pawl 36a with respect to the third pivot axis A3. The operating portion 36d is spaced apart from the third contact part 38b in a state in which the operating member 36 is located at the initial position P20. When the operating member 36 is pivoted with respect to the base plate 24 in the second pivot direction D72, the third contact part 38b of the third pawl 38 is pressed in the second pivot direction D82 by the operating portion 36d of the operating member 36. The operating member 36 is pivoted around the third pivot axis A3 by the second operating member 22.

[0049] As in the Fig. 6, the second operating member 22 includes an elongated hole 22a. The first shaft portion 26b extends through the elongated hole 22a to pivotally support the second operating member 22 about the second pivot axis A2. The second operating member 22 includes a support arm 22b configured to slidably contact an outer circumferential surface of the second shaft portion 26c. The second operating member 22 is pivotable with respect to the first support member 26 (i.e., the base member 12) about the second shaft portion 26c. The second shaft portion 26c defines the first pivot axis A1. The elongated hole 22a allows the second operating member 22 to be pivoted with respect to the base member 12 (see the Fig. 1) pivots around the first pivot axis A1 in the first operating direction D31.

[0050] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the second operating member 22 is configured to operate the actuating member 36 when the second operating member 22 is pivoted in each of the first operating direction D31 and the second operating direction D32. Specifically, the actuating member 36 includes a pawl portion 36d protruding from the actuating main body 36b. The pawl portion 36d extends from the actuating main body 36b in the direction of the rotation axis A0. The second operating member 22 includes a contact portion 22c configured to be contactable by the pawl portion 36e. The actuating member 36 is pressed by the second operating member 22 via the contact portion 22c and the pawl portion 36e when the second operating member 22 is pivoted with respect to the base plate 24 in the first operating direction D31 and the second operating direction D32, respectively.Accordingly, the actuating member 36 is pivoted with respect to the base plate 24 in the second pivoting direction D72 using the second operating member 22.

[0051] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Fig. 8, the ratchet teeth 32a of the ratchet member 32 include first ratchet teeth 32c and second ratchet teeth 32d. The first pawl 34 includes a first tooth 34c configured to engage with one of the first ratchet teeth 32c. The first tooth 34c is disposed between two adjacent ones of the first ratchet teeth 32c. The first tooth 34c is spaced from the first ratchet teeth 32c by a gap in a state in which the first operating member 20 is at the first rest position P10 (see the Fig. 5). The third pawl 38 includes a third tooth 38c configured to engage one of the second ratchet teeth 32d. The third pawl 38 slidably contacts the second ratchet teeth 32d.

[0052] The first ratchet teeth 32c are arranged in the rotational direction D1 with a pitch angle or angle PA1. The second ratchet teeth 32d are arranged in the rotational direction D1 with a pitch angle or angle PA2. The second ratchet teeth 32d have a shape that is different from a shape of the first ratchet teeth 32c. However, the second ratchet teeth 32d may have a shape that is the same as the shape of the first ratchet teeth 32c. The first ratchet teeth 32c are arranged within a first angular range R1. The second ratchet teeth 32d are arranged within a second angular range R2. In a case where the second ratchet teeth 32d have a shape that is the same as a shape of the first ratchet teeth 32c, the first angular range R1 may at least partially overlap with the second angular range R2.

[0053] The second pawl 36a is configured to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32. The second pawl 36a is configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth 32a that is adjacent to the first pawl 34 in the first direction D11. The first pawl 34 includes a first contact surface 34d. The second pawl 36a includes a second contact surface 36f configured to slidably contact the first contact surface 34d to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32.

[0054] As in the Fig. 8 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the second pawl 36a includes an inclined surface 36g. The inclined surface 36g is inclined with respect to the second contact surface 36f. The inclined surface 36g is parallel to the rotation axis A0. The inclined surface 36g allows the second pawl 36a to be smoothly inserted between two adjacent ones of the first ratchet teeth 32c.

[0055] Operations of the bicycle operating devices 10 will be described below with reference to the Fig. 10 to 18. Detailed structures of the bicycle operating device 10 are shown in the Fig. 10 to 18 have been omitted except for the ratchet member 32, the first pawl 34, the actuating member 36, the third pawl 38, the first operating member 20 and the second operating member 22. Movement of each of these members indicates movement with respect to the base member 12 (see the Fig. 1) in the Fig. 10 to 18. A movement of the ratchet member 32 indicates a movement of the wire take-up member 30 with respect to the base member 12 in the Fig. 10 to 18.

[0056] The Fig. 10 to 12 represent the first operation for winding the inner wire 2a (see the Fig. 2) of the control cable 2. As shown in the Fig. 10, the wire take-up member 30 is biased by a fifth biasing member (not shown) to rotate the rotation axis A0 in the second direction D12. The ratchet member 32 (i.e., the wire take-up member 30) is prevented from rotating against a fifth biasing force F5 of the fifth biasing member in the second direction D12 in a state where the third tooth 38c of the third pawl 38 engages with the second ratchet teeth 32d of the ratchet teeth 32a. In this state, for example, the ratchet member 32 is located at a rotation position P30. The first tooth 34c of the first pawl 34 is disposed between two adjacent ones of the first ratchet teeth 32c of the ratchet teeth 32a through a gap in a state where the first operating member 20 is located at the first rest position P10.

[0057] As in the Fig. 11, when the first operating member 20 is pivoted about the rotation axis A0 in the first pivoting direction D21 by the user, the first tooth 34c of the first pawl 34 comes into contact with one of the first ratchet teeth 32c. When the first operating member 20 is further pivoted about the rotation axis A0 in the first pivoting direction D21, the ratchet member 32 is rotated about the rotation axis A0 in the first direction D11 against the fifth biasing force F5. Since the third pawl 38 is biased in the first pivoting direction D81 by the fourth biasing force F4, the third tooth 38c of the third pawl 38 slides with one of the second ratchet teeth 32d while the ratchet member 32 is rotated about the rotation axis A0 in the first direction D11. When the first operating member 20 reaches an operated position P11, the ratchet member 32 is rotated about the rotation axis A0 by a distance angle or angle PA1 in the first direction D11.In this state, the third pawl 38 positions the ratchet member 32 at a rotational position P31 against the fifth preload force F5.

[0058] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 12, when the operating force applied to the first operating member 20 is released by the user, the first operating member 20 is pivoted about the rotation axis A0 in the second pivoting direction D22 by the second preload force F2. The first tooth 34c slides along with and passes over one of the first ratchet teeth 32c against the first preload force F1, while the first operating member 20 is returned to the first rest position P10 by the second preload force F2.

[0059] The wire receiving member 30 (see the Fig. 2) and the ratchet member 32 are rotated around the rotation axis A0 in the first direction D11 to engage the inner wire 2a (see the Fig. 2) based on the operations described above from the Fig. 10 to 12 to wind.

[0060] The Fig. 13 to 16 represent the second operation to unwind the inner wire 2a (see the Fig. 2). As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 13, when the second operating member 22 is located at a second rest position P40, the second contact surface 26f of the second pawl 36a is in contact with the first contact surface 34d of the first pawl 34. In this state, the second operating member 22 is positioned at the second rest position P40 by means of the actuating member 36, the first shaft portion 26b, and the second shaft portion 26c.

[0061] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 14, when the second operating member 22 is operated in the first operating direction D31 by the user, the second operating member 22 is pivoted about the first pivot axis A1 in the first operating direction D31 within a pivotable range defined by the elongated hole 22a. This causes the contact portion 22c of the second operating member 22 to press the pawl portion 36e of the operating member 36 such that the operating member 36 is pivoted about the first pivot axis A1 in the second pivot direction D72.

[0062] The second contact surface 36f of the second pawl 36a slides together with the first contact surface 34d of the first pawl 34 while the actuating member 36 is pivoted about the first pivot axis A1 in the second pivot direction D72. As a result, the first pawl 34 is pivoted about the fourth pivot axis A4 in the second pivot direction D52, causing the first pawl 34 to move away from the ratchet member 32.

[0063] As in the Fig. 14, the actuating member 36d presses the third contact part 38b of the third pawl 38 when the actuating member 36 is pivoted in the second pivoting direction D72. As a result, the third pawl 38 is pivoted about the fifth pivot axis A5 in the second pivoting direction D82, causing the third tooth 38c to be moved away from the ratchet member 32. In the state shown in the Fig. 14, the second pawl 36a and the third pawl 38 engage with one of the first ratchet teeth 32c and one of the second ratchet teeth 32d, respectively, to position the ratchet member 32 in the rotational direction D1.

[0064] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, when the second operating member 22 is further pivoted about the first pivot axis A1 in the first operating direction D31 toward a first operated position P41, the actuating member 36 is further pivoted about the third pivot axis A3 in the second pivot direction D72. This causes the second pawl 36a to engage two adjacent ones of the first ratchet teeth 32c.

[0065] In a similar manner, the actuating portion 36d further pushes the third contact part 38b of the third pawl 38, causing the third pawl 38 to pivot further around the fifth pivot axis A5 in the second pivot direction D82. Accordingly, the engagement between the third pawl 38 and the second ratchet teeth 32d is released. In this state, the ratchet member 32 is prevented from rotating around the rotation axis A0 by the second pawl 36a of the actuating member 36.

[0066] As in the Fig. 13 to 15, in a state in which the second pawl 36a prevents the ratchet member 32 from rotating about the rotation axis A0, a rotation position P32 of the ratchet member 32 is offset from the rotation state P30 in the second direction D12.

[0067] As in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 16, the operating member 36 is pivoted toward the initial position P20 about the third pivot axis A3 in the first pivot direction D71 by the third biasing force F3 when the operating force exerted on the second operating member 22 is released by the user. The second operating member 22 is pivoted toward the second rest position P40 about the first pivot axis A1 in the second operating direction D32.

[0068] The second contact surface 36f of the second pawl 36a slides together with the first contact surface 34d of the first pawl 34 while the actuator 36 is pivoted about the third pivot axis A3 in the first pivot direction D71. As a result, the first pawl 34 is pivoted about the fourth pivot axis A4 in the first pivot direction D51 by the first biasing force F1, which causes the first pawl 34 to be inserted between two adjacent ones of the first ratchet teeth 32c.

[0069] The third pawl 38 is pivoted about the fifth pivot axis A5 in the first pivot direction D81 by means of the fourth biasing force F4. This causes the third tooth 38c to be inserted between two adjacent ones of the second ratchet teeth 32d to engage with one of the second ratchet teeth 32d. As shown in the Fig. 15, the third tooth 38c is inserted into a space S1, since the ratchet member 32 is preloaded by the fifth preload force F5. As shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 16, the ratchet member 32 is positioned at a rotational position P33, which is offset from the rotational position P30 in the second direction D12 by a pitch angle PA2. In this state, the first tooth 34c is arranged in a space S2 (see the Fig. 15) of the first ratchet teeth 32c.

[0070] The wire receiving member 30 (see the Fig. 2) and the ratchet member 32 are rotated around the rotation axis A0 in the second direction D12 to rotate the inner wire 2a (see the Fig. 2) of the control cable 2 on the basis of the above-described operations from the Fig. 13 to 16 to unwind or unwind.

[0071] The Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 provide a further second operation for unwinding or unwinding the inner wire 2a (see the Fig. 2).

[0072] As in the Fig. 17, the second operating member 22 is arranged at a third rest position P50. The third rest position P50 is defined on the basis of the rotation axis A0, while the second rest position P40, which is shown in the Fig. 15, is defined based on the first pivot axis A1. The third rest position P50 indicates the same position of the second operating member 22 as the second rest position P40.

[0073] When the second operating member 22 is operated in the second operating direction D32 by the user, the second operating member 22 is pivoted about the second pivot axis A2 (the rotation axis A0) in the second operating direction D32 away from the third rest position P50. This causes the contact portion 22c of the second operating member 22 to press the pawl portion 36e of the operating member 36. The positional relationship between the ratchet member 32, the first pawl 34, the operating member 36, and the third pawl 38 is substantially the same as or includes the same states as the positional relationship shown in the Fig. 14, except for the second operating element 22.

[0074] As in the Fig. 18, the actuating member 36 is / is further pivoted about the third pivot axis A3 in the second pivot direction D72 when the second operating member 22 is / is further pivoted about the second pivot axis A2 in the second operating direction D32 towards a second operated position P51. The positional relationship between the ratchet member 32, the pawl 34, the actuating member 36 and the third pawl 38 is substantially the same or includes the same states as the positional relationship shown in the Fig. 15, except for the second operating element 22.

[0075] When the user releases the second operating member 22, the third pawl 38 also engages with one of the second ratchet teeth 32d, as in the operating process in the Fig. 16. The wire receiving member 30 (see the Fig. 2) and the ratchet member 32 are rotated around the rotation axis A0 in the second direction D12 to rotate the inner wire 2a (see the Fig. 2) the control cable based on the operations described above from the Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 to unwind or unwind.

[0076] In the case of the bicycle operating device 10, the actuating member 36 is configured to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32 following the second operation or in response to a first operation of the operating assembly 14, and to engage the second pawl 36a with one of the ratchet teeth 32a. Accordingly, a member configured to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10, allowing for simplified structures of the bicycle operating device 10. SECOND EMBODIMENT

[0077] A bicycle operating device 210 according to a second embodiment will be described below with reference to the Fig. 19. The bicycle operating device 210 has substantially the same configuration as the bicycle operating device 10, except for the operating member. Elements that have substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment are therefore designated by the same reference numerals and will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0078] As in the Fig.As seen in Figure 19, the bicycle operating device 210 includes an actuating member 236. The actuating member 236 includes a first part 237 and a second part 239. The first part 237 is configured to be pivotable relative to the base member 12 about a fourth actuating axis A11 and includes the second pawl 36a. The second part 239 is configured to be pivotable relative to the base member 12 about a second actuating axis A12. The first actuating axis A11 is different from the second actuating axis A12. The first actuating axis A11 is parallel to the second actuating axis A12.

[0079] The second part 239 is configured to pivot the first part 237 such that the second pawl 36a moves the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32 and prevents rotation of the wire take-up member 30 in the second direction D12. In particular, the first part 237 includes a first contact portion 237a configured to contact the second part 239. The first contact portion 237a is substantially opposite the second pawl 36a with respect to the first actuation axis A11. The second part 239 includes a first end 239a and a second end 239b opposite the first end 239a. The first end 239a is / is pressed, for example, by the second actuating member 22 described in the first embodiment. The second end 239b is configured to contact the first contact portion 237a.When the first end 239a of the second part 239 is pressed by the second operating member 22 as a result of the second operation or in response to a first operation, the second part 239 is rotated relative to the base member 12 about the second operating axis A12 in a first pivoting direction D201. At this time, the second end 239b presses the first contact portion 237a, causing the first part 237 to rotate relative to the base member 12 about the first operating axis A11 in a first pivoting direction D211. Accordingly, the second pawl 36a moves the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32.

[0080] The second part 239 of the actuating member 236 is configured to release the third pawl 38 from the ratchet member 32 following the second actuation or in response to a first actuation. Specifically, the second part 239 is configured to contact the third contact part 38b of the third pawl 38 such that the third pawl 38 is pivoted about the second actuation axis A12 in a first pivot direction D221 following the second actuation.

[0081] Since operations of the second operating device 210 are substantially the same as those of the bicycle operating device 10, they will not be described in further detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0082] In the case of the bicycle operating device 210, the actuating member 236 is configured to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32 and engage the second pawl 36a with one of the ratchet teeth 32a following the second actuation. Accordingly, a member configured to move the first pawl 34 away from the ratchet member 32 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 210, allowing for simplified structures of the bicycle operating device 210.

[0083] In the present application, the term "attached" or "attach" as used herein includes configurations in which an element is directly attached to another element by fixing the element in a direct manner to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other element by means of interposed links; and configurations in which an element is integral with another element, i.e., an element is essentially a part of the other element. This concept also applies to words of a similar meaning such as "connected," "joined," "coupled," "mounted," "bonded," "fixed," and their derivatives.

[0084] The term "comprise" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that establish the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "comprise," "include," and their derivatives.

[0085] The terms “member”, “section”, “part” and “element” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0086] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" used in this application are to be considered merely as identifiers and have no further meaning, such as a specific order or the like. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply the presence of a "second element," and the term "second element" itself does not imply the presence of a "first element."

[0087] The term “pair of” as used herein may include the embodiment in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other as well as the embodiment in which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures.

[0088] Finally, the terms of a degree such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a proportionate degree of departure from the modified term such that the end result is not substantially changed.

[0089] Obviously, numerous modifications or variations of the present invention may be made in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

[1] Bicycle operating device (10) comprising: a base member (12); an operating arrangement (14) coupled to the base member (12); a wire take-up member (30) configured to be rotatable with respect to the base member (12) about a rotation axis (A0) in a first direction (D11) and a second direction (D12) opposite to the first direction (D11); a ratchet member (32) having ratchet teeth (32a) and configured to be rotatable with the wire take-up member (30) between a plurality of predetermined positions; a first pawl (34) configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth (32a) to rotate the wire take-up member (30) in the first direction (D11) following a first operation of the operating assembly (14); and an actuating member (36) including a second pawl (36a), the actuating member (36) being configured to move the first pawl (34) away from the ratchet member (32) and to engage the second pawl (36a) with one of the ratchet teeth (32a) following a second actuation of the actuating assembly (14). [2] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the operating member (36) is configured such that the second pawl (36a) moves the first pawl (34) away from the ratchet member (32) and engages one of the ratchet teeth (32a) which is adjacent to the first pawl (34) in the first direction (D11). [3] The bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 2, wherein the first pawl (34) includes a first contact surface (34d), and the second pawl (36a) includes a second contact surface (36f) configured to slidably engage a first contact surface (34d) to move the first pawl (34) away from the ratchet member (32). [4] Bicycle operating device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a third pawl (38) configured to engage one of the ratchet teeth (32a) of the ratchet member (32) to position the ratchet member (32) in one of the plurality of predetermined positions. [5] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the actuating member (36) is configured to release the third pawl (38) from the ratchet member (32) following the second operation. [6] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 5, wherein the actuating member (36) includes a first part (237) which is pivotable with respect to the base member (12) about a first actuating axis (A11) and includes the second pawl (36a), and a second part (239) which is pivotable with respect to the base member (12) about a second actuating axis (A12), and wherein the first actuation axis (A11) is different from the second actuation axis (A12). [7] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the first operating axis (A11) is parallel to the second operating axis (A12). [8] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the second part (239) of the actuating member (36) is configured to release the third pawl (38) from the ratchet member (32) following the second operation. [9] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 8, wherein the second part (239) is configured to pivot the first part (237) such that the second pawl (36a) moves the first pawl (34) away from the ratchet member (32) and to prevent rotation of the wire take-up member (30) in the second direction (D12). [10] Bicycle operating device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the operating arrangement (14) includes a first operating member (20) which is designed to be movable with respect to the base member (12) to provide the first operating means, and a second operating member (22) configured to be movable relative to the base member (12) for providing the second operating means. [11] The bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 10, wherein the second operating member (22) is pivotable with respect to the base member (12) in a first operating direction (D31) and a second operating direction (D32) opposite to the first operating direction (D31), and the second operating member (22) is configured to operate the actuating member (36) when the second operating member (22) is pivoted in each of the first operating direction (D31) and the second operating direction (D32). [12] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 11, wherein the second operating member (22) is configured to be pivotable about a first pivot axis (A1) in the first operating direction (D31) and about a second pivot axis (A2) in the second operating direction (D32), and the first pivot axis (A1) is different from the second pivot axis (A2). [13] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 12, wherein the first pivot axis (A1) is parallel to the second pivot axis (A2), and / or the second pivot axis (A2) is coaxial with the rotation axis (A0) of the wire take-up member (30). [14] Bicycle operating device (10) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the operating member (36) is configured to be pivotable with respect to the base member (12) about a third pivot axis (A3), and the third pivot axis (A3) is coaxial with the first pivot axis (A1) of the second operating member (22). [15] Bicycle operating device (10) according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the first pawl (34) is pivotally provided on the first operating member (20) about a fourth pivot axis (A4), and the first operating member (20) is pivotally mounted with respect to the base member (12) about the axis of rotation (A0) of the wire receiving member (30).

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