REAR BICYCLE SPROCKET ARRANGEMENT AND BICYCLE DRIVETRAIN

Abstract

Sprocket holder (56) for a rear bicycle sprocket assembly (14), wherein a plurality of sprockets (SP1-SP12) are attached to the sprocket holder (56), the sprocket holder (56) comprising the following: a hub engagement section (60) having at least ten internal wedge teeth (78) designed to engage with a bicycle hub assembly (12); which comprise at least ten internal splined teeth (78) and several internal splined drive surfaces (66) to receive a drive torque (F1) on a sprocket support body (28) of a bicycle hub assembly (12) during pedal actuation, the multiple internal splined drive surfaces (66) each comprise a radial outermost edge (66A), a radial innermost edge (66B), and a radial length (RL21) defined from the radial outermost edge (66A) to the radial innermost edge (66B), and a total of the radial lengths (RL21) of the multiple internal splined drive surfaces (66) is equal to or greater than 7 mm; comprising at least one of the at least ten internal wedge teeth (78): an internal splined drive surface (66) with an internal splined surface angle (AG21) defined between the internal splined drive surface (66) and a radial line (L21) extending from a rotational center axis (A1) of the sprocket holder (56) to a radially outermost edge (66A) of the internal splined drive surface (66); and the internal spline surface angle (AG21) lies in a range of 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority over U.S. patent application US 15 / 608,924 and U.S. patent application US 15 / 608,915, filed on May 30, 2017. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application US 15 / 608,924 and U.S. patent application US 15 / 608,915 is hereby incorporated by reference. AREA OF INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a rear bicycle chainring assembly and a bicycle drivetrain. BACKGROUND DISCUSSION

[0003] Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of leisure activity and a means of transportation. Furthermore, cycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for leisure, transport, or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving its various components. One bicycle component that has undergone extensive redesign is the drivetrain. For example, DE 600 22 250 T2 discloses a multi-gear freewheel for a bicycle, consisting of a set of diametrically opposed sprockets mounted axially on a sprocket ring or carrier, which is rotatably mounted on an inner ring via a one-way coupling. The sprocket set is pre-assembled by retaining pins, each of which has an enlarged head that engages in the axially innermost sprocket of the set and extends through the set to protrude from the axially outermost sprocket of the set in a press fit.A nut is screwed onto the sprocket ring to push the pin tip out of the press fit with the outermost sprocket. US 2010 / 0260544A1 shows a connecting tube of a bicycle rear hub comprising a connecting section and an engagement section at two ends of the connecting tube, the connecting section being attached to the bicycle rear hub. The engagement section is a hollow tube, and four elongated drive ribs extend radially from an outer circumference of the engagement section. Each drive rib comprises a drive surface and an inclined surface on two sides. The drive surface is perpendicular to the outer circumference of the engagement area. A positioning rib extends radially from an outer circumference of the engagement section and is located between two drive ribs. Only the drive surface contacts the engagement ribs of the sprocket set.DE 10 2015 005 141 A1 discloses a bicycle hub assembly comprising a hub shaft, a hub shell, and a sprocket support link. The sprocket support link comprises a tubular section and a first tooth. The tubular section includes an outer peripheral surface and a mounting section, which is provided only radially inside the outer peripheral surface. The first tooth is designed to be attached to the mounting section of the tubular section. The first tooth comprises a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is designed to face a mounting section of a bicycle sprocket in a circumferential direction of the sprocket support link. The second surface is opposite the first surface in the circumferential direction. The second surface is designed to face the mounting section of the bicycle sprocket in the circumferential direction.US 4,869,710 A discloses a multi-chain freewheel for a bicycle comprising a set of diametrically opposed sprockets mounted axially on a sprocket ring or carrier rotatably mounted on an inner ring by means of a one-way coupling. The sprocket set is pre-assembled by retaining pins, each having an enlarged head that engages in an axially innermost sprocket of the set and extends through the set to emerge from an axially outermost sprocket of the set in a press fit. A nut is screwed onto the sprocket ring to push the pin tip out of the press fit with the outermost sprocket. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a sprocket holder for a rear bicycle sprocket assembly is provided. A plurality of sprockets are attached to the sprocket holder. The sprocket holder comprises a hub engagement section. The hub engagement section has at least ten internal splined teeth configured for engagement with a bicycle hub assembly. The internal splined teeth comprise several internal splined drive surfaces. These drive surfaces are designed to receive a drive torque on a sprocket support body of a bicycle hub assembly during pedaling. Each of the internal splined drive surfaces has a radially outermost edge, a radially innermost edge, and a radial length. The radial length is defined as the distance between the radially outermost and the radially innermost edges.The sum of the radial lengths of the multiple internal spline drive surfaces is at least 7 millimeters. At least one of the internal spline teeth comprises an internal spline drive surface with a first internal spline surface angle. This angle is defined between the drive surface and a radial line extending from the rotational axis of the sprocket holder to the radially outermost edge of the drive surface. The first internal spline surface angle is in the range of 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the sprocket holder according to the first aspect of the invention has a total number of internal splined teeth that is equal to or greater than 20.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the sprocket holder according to one of the preceding aspects comprises a plurality of support arms which extend radially outwards from the hub engagement section with respect to the axis of rotation of the sprocket holder.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, at least one of the at least ten internal splined teeth of the sprocket holder according to one of the preceding aspects has a shape that differs from the shape of another of the internal splined teeth.

[0008] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, at least one of the at least ten internal splined teeth of the sprocket holder according to one of the preceding aspects has a first splined tooth size that differs from a second splined tooth size of another of the internal splined teeth.

[0009] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, at least two of the inner splined teeth of the at least ten inner splined teeth of the chainring holder according to one of the preceding aspects are arranged circumferentially at a first inner helix angle with respect to the rotational center axis of the rear bicycle chainring assembly, wherein the first inner helix angle is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, at least two of the inner splined teeth of the at least ten inner splined teeth of the sprocket holder according to one of the preceding aspects are arranged circumferentially at a second inner helix angle with respect to the axis of rotation, wherein the second inner helix angle differs from the first inner helix angle.

[0011] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle drivetrain is provided. The bicycle drivetrain comprises a rear bicycle chainring assembly, which includes a chainring holder according to one of the aspects described above. Furthermore, the bicycle drivetrain comprises a bicycle hub assembly with a chainring support body having at least ten external splined teeth configured to engage with the rear bicycle chainring assembly. Each of the at least ten external splined teeth has an external splined drive surface and an external splined non-drive surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] A more comprehensive understanding of the invention and many of its associated advantages will readily be obtained when they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a bicycle drive train according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 is a perspective exploded view of the bicycle drivetrain, which is in Fig. 1 is shown. Fig. 3 is another perspective view of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle drivetrain along line IV-IV of Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view of a bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drivetrain, which is in Fig. 2 is shown. Fig. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the in Fig. 4 bicycle drive systems shown. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a chainring support body of the bicycle hub assembly of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. Figure 8 is another perspective view of the chainring support body of the bicycle hub assembly of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. 9 is a side elevation view of the in Fig. 7 shown sprocket support body. Fig. Figure 10 is a side elevation view of a chain wheel support body of the bicycle hub assembly after a modification. Fig. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the in Fig. 7 shown sprocket support body. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the in Fig. 7 shown sprocket support body. Fig. Figure 13 is a perspective view of the bicycle hub arrangement of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. 14 is a side elevation view of the bicycle hub arrangement of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. 15 is a rear view of the bicycle hub arrangement of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle hub arrangement along line XVI-XVI of Fig. 5. Fig. 17 is a side elevation view of the rear bicycle chainring assembly of the in Fig. 2 illustrated bicycle drivetrain Fig. Figure 18 is a perspective exploded view of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. Figure 19 is a perspective partial exploded view of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 20 is another perspective partial exploded view of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 21 is another perspective partial exploded view of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 22 is another perspective partial exploded view of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 23 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the rear bicycle chainring assembly along line XXIII-XXIII of Fig. 17. Fig. 24 is a perspective view of the smallest sprocket of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 25 is another perspective view of the smallest sprocket of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 26 is a side elevation view of the smallest sprocket of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. Figure 27 is a side elevation view of a smallest sprocket after a modification. Fig. 28 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the in Fig. 24 smallest sprocket shown. Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the in Fig. 24 smallest sprocket shown. Fig. Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body and the smallest sprocket of the in Fig. 2 bicycle drivetrains shown. Fig. Figure 31 is a perspective partial exploded view of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. Fig. 32 is a perspective view of a sprocket mount of the in Fig. 17 rear bicycle chainring arrangement shown. DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORMS

[0013] The embodiment(s) will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote corresponding or identical elements in the different drawings.

[0014] Initially referring to Fig. 1 comprises a bicycle drivetrain 10 according to one embodiment, a bicycle hub assembly 12, and a rear bicycle chainring assembly 14. The bicycle hub assembly 12 is attached to a bicycle frame BF. The rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 is attached to the bicycle hub assembly 12. A bicycle brake rotor 16 is attached to the bicycle hub assembly 12.

[0015] The bicycle drivetrain 10 further comprises a crank assembly 18 and a bicycle chain 20. The crank assembly 18 includes a crank axle 22, a right crank arm 24, a left crank arm 26, and a front sprocket 27. The right crank arm 24 and the left crank arm 26 are attached to the crank axle 22. The front sprocket 27 is attached to at least one of the crank axle 22 and the right crank arm 24. The bicycle chain 20 is connected to the front sprocket 27 and the rear sprocket assembly 14 to transmit a pedaling force from the front sprocket 27 to the rear sprocket assembly 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the crank assembly 18 has the sprocket 27 as a single sprocket. However, the crank assembly 18 can have multiple front sprockets. The rear sprocket assembly 14 is a rear sprocket assembly.However, structures of the rear bicycle chainring arrangement 14 can be applied to the front chainring.

[0016] In the present application, the following directional terms "front", "back", "forward", "backward", "left", "right", "across", "up", and "down", as well as other similar directional terms, refer to those directions determined from the perspective of the user (for example, the cyclist) sitting on a saddle (not shown) of a bicycle and facing the handlebars (not shown). Accordingly, these terms, as used to describe the bicycle drivetrain 10, the bicycle hub assembly 12, or the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14, are to be interpreted with reference to the bicycle equipped with the bicycle drivetrain 10, the bicycle hub assembly 12, or the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14, as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

[0017] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the bicycle hub assembly 12 and the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 have a central axis of rotation A1. The rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 is controlled by the bicycle hub assembly 12 with respect to the bicycle frame BF ( Fig. 1) Rotatably supported about the axis of rotation A1. The rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 is configured to engage with the bicycle chain 20 to transmit a drive torque between the bicycle chain 20 and the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 during pedaling. The rear bicycle chainring assembly rotates about the axis of rotation A1 in a drive direction D11 during pedaling. The drive direction D11 is defined along a circumferential direction D1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 or the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14. A reverse direction of rotation D12 is an opposite direction to the drive direction D11 and is defined along the circumferential direction D1.

[0018] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the bicycle hub assembly 12 comprises a sprocket support body 28. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly is attached to the sprocket support body 28 to transmit the drive torque F1 between the sprocket support body 28 and the rear bicycle sprocket assembly. The bicycle hub assembly 12 further comprises a hub axle 30. The sprocket support body 28 is rotatably attached to the hub axle 30 about the axis of rotation A1. The bicycle hub assembly 12 includes a locking ring 32. The locking ring 32 is attached to the sprocket support body 28 to hold the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 in an axial direction D2 parallel to the axis of rotation A1 with respect to the sprocket support body 28.

[0019] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the bicycle hub assembly 12 is attached to the bicycle frame BF by a wheel mounting structure WS. The hub axle 30 has a through-hole 30A. A mounting rod WS1 of the wheel mounting structure WS extends through the hole 30A of the hub axle 30. The hub axle 30 comprises a first axle end 30B and a second axle end 30C. The hub axle 30 extends between the first axle end 30B and the second axle end 30C along the pivot axis A1. The first axle end 30B is provided in a first recess BF11 of a first frame BF1 of the bicycle frame BF. The second axle end 30C is provided in a second recess BF21 of a second frame BF2 of the bicycle frame BF. The hub axle 30 is held between the first frame BF1 and the second frame BF2 by the wheel locking structure WS. The wheel locking structure WS comprises a structure that is known in the field of bicycles.Therefore, for the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail.

[0020] As in Fig. 4 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further comprises a brake rotor support body 34. The brake rotor support body 34 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle 30 about the pivot axis A1. The brake rotor support body 34 is connected to the bicycle brake rotor 16 ( Fig. 1) connected to transmit a braking torque from the bicycle brake rotor 16 to the brake rotor support body 34.

[0021] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further comprises a hub body 36. The hub body 36 is rotatably attached to the hub axle 30 about the central axis of rotation A1. In this embodiment, the sprocket support body 28 is a separate element from the hub body 36. The brake rotor support body 34 is integrally formed with the hub body 36 as a single, unified element. However, the sprocket support body can also be integrally formed with the hub body 36. The brake rotor support body 34 can also be a separate element from the hub body 36.

[0022] The hub body 36 comprises a first flange 36A and a second flange 36B. First spokes (not shown) are connected to the first flange 36A. Second spokes (not shown) are connected to the second flange 36B. The second flange 36B is spaced axially D2 apart from the first flange 36A. The first flange 36A is positioned axially D2 between the sprocket support body 28 and the second flange 36B. The second flange 36B is positioned axially D2 between the first flange 36A and the brake rotor support body 34.

[0023] The locking ring 32 comprises a part 32A with an external thread. The sprocket support body 28 has an internal threaded section 28A. The external threaded section 32A is in threaded engagement with the internal threaded section 28A in a state in which the locking ring 32 is attached to the sprocket support body 28.

[0024] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further comprises a pawl structure 38. The chainring support body 28 is operatively connected to the hub body 36 via the pawl structure 38. The pawl structure 38 is designed to connect the chainring support body 28 to the hub body 36 in order to rotate the chainring support body 28 together with the hub body 36 in the drive direction D11 during pedal actuation. Fig. 5) to rotate. The pawl structure 38 is designed to allow the sprocket support body 28 to rotate in the reverse direction D12 relative to the hub body 36 during coasting ( Fig. 5) to rotate. Accordingly, the pawl structure 38 can be described as a one-way coupling structure 38. The pawl structure 38 comprises structures that are known in the bicycle sector. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, they are not described in detail here.

[0025] The bicycle hub assembly 12 comprises a first bearing 39A and a second bearing 39B. The first bearing 39A and the second bearing 39B are provided between the chain wheel support body 28 and the hub axle 30 in order to rotatably support the chain wheel support body 28 with respect to the hub axle 30 about the pivot axis A1.

[0026] In this embodiment, each of the sprocket support body 28, the brake rotor support body 34, and the hub body 36 is made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. However, at least one of the sprocket support body 28, the brake rotor support body 34, and the hub body 36 may be made of a non-metallic material.

[0027] As in Fig. 7 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the chain wheel support body 28 includes at least one external splined tooth 40, which engages with the rear bicycle chain wheel assembly 14 ( Fig. 6) is set up. The sprocket support body 28 comprises several external splined teeth 40 which engage with the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 ( Fig. 6) are arranged. That is, the at least one external splined tooth 40 comprises several external splined teeth 40. The sprocket support body 28 comprises at least nine external splined teeth 40, which are arranged to engage with the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 ( Fig. 6) to engage. The sprocket support body 28 comprises at least ten external splined teeth 40, which are configured to engage with the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 ( Fig. 6) to intervene.

[0028] The sprocket support body 28 comprises a base carrier 41, which has a tubular shape. The base carrier 41 extends along the axis of rotation A1. The external splined tooth 40 extends radially outward from the base carrier 41. The sprocket support body 28 comprises a larger-diameter section 42, a flange 44, and several helical external splined teeth 46. The larger-diameter section 42 and the flange 44 extend radially outward from the base carrier 41. The larger-diameter section 42 is positioned axially D2 between the multiple external splined teeth 40 and the flange 44. The larger-diameter section 42 and the flange 44 are positioned axially D2 between the multiple external splined teeth 40 and the multiple helical external splined teeth 46. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 is held in the axial direction D2 between the larger-diameter part 42 and a locking flange 32B of the locking ring 32. The larger-diameter part 42 may have an internal cavity, allowing a drive structure, such as a one-way coupling structure, to be contained within the internal cavity. The larger-diameter part 42 can be omitted from the bicycle hub assembly 12 as required.

[0029] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9, the total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is equal to or greater than 20. The total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is equal to or greater than 25. In this embodiment, the total number of external spline teeth 40 is 26. However, the total number of external spline teeth 40 is not limited to this embodiment and the preceding areas.

[0030] The at least ten external spline teeth 40 have a first outer helix angle PA11 and a second outer helix angle PA12. At least two of the multiple external spline teeth are arranged circumferentially at the first outer helix angle PA11 with respect to the axis of rotation A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12. At least two of the multiple external spline teeth 40 are arranged circumferentially at the second helix angle PA12 with respect to the axis of rotation A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12. In this embodiment, the second outer helix angle PA12 differs from the first outer helix angle PA11. However, the second outer helix angle PA12 can be essentially the same as the first outer helix angle PA11.

[0031] In this embodiment, the external spline teeth 40 are arranged in the circumferential direction D1 at the first outer helix angle PA11. Two external spline teeth of the external spline teeth 40 are arranged in the second outer helix angle PA12 in the circumferential direction D1. However, at least two external spline teeth of the external spline teeth 40 can be arranged at a different outer angle in the circumferential direction D1.

[0032] The first outer slope angle PA11 ranges from 10 degrees to 20 degrees. The first outer slope angle PA11 ranges from 12 degrees to 15 degrees. The first outer slope angle PA11 ranges from 13 degrees to 14 degrees. In this embodiment, the first outer slope angle PA11 is 13.3 degrees. However, the first outer slope angle PA11 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0033] The second outer slope angle PA12 ranges from 5 degrees to 30 degrees. In this embodiment, the second outer slope angle PA12 is 26 degrees. However, the second outer slope angle PA12 is not limited to this embodiment and the range described above.

[0034] The external spline teeth 40 have essentially the same shape. The external spline teeth 40 have essentially the same spline size. The external spline teeth 40 have essentially the same profile when viewed along the axis of rotation A1. As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 can have a first spline shape that differs from a second spline shape of another of the at least ten external spline teeth 40. At least one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 can have a first spline size that differs from a second spline size of another of the at least ten external spline teeth 40. At least one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 can have a profile that differs from a profile of another of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 when viewed along the axis of rotation A1. Fig. 10. One of the external spline teeth 40 has a spline shape that differs from the spline shape of the other teeth of the external spline teeth 40. One of the external spline teeth 40 has a spline size that differs from the spline size of the other teeth of the external spline teeth 40. One of the external spline teeth 40 has a profile that differs from the profile of the other teeth of the external spline teeth 40 when viewed along the axis of rotation A1.

[0035] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 11, each of the at least 40 external splined teeth has an external splined drive surface 48 and an external splined non-drive surface 50. The multiple external splined teeth 40 comprise multiple external splined drive surfaces 48 to transmit the drive torque F1 from the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 ( Fig. 6) during pedal actuation. The multiple external splined teeth 40 comprise multiple external splined non-drive surfaces 50. The external splined drive surface 48 is contactable with the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 to transmit the drive torque F1 from the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 ( Fig. 6) during pedal operation. The external splined drive surface 48 faces the reverse direction of rotation D12. The external splined non-drive surface 50 is provided on the rear side of the external splined drive surface 48 in the circumferential direction D1. The external splined non-drive surface 50 faces the drive direction of rotation D11 in order not to absorb the drive torque F1 from the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 during pedal operation.

[0036] The at least ten external spline teeth 40 each have a maximum circumferential width MW1. The maximum circumferential width MW1 is defined as the maximum width to accommodate a compressive force F2 exerted on the external spline tooth 40. The maximum circumferential width MW1 is defined as a straight distance based on the external spline drive surface 48.

[0037] The multiple external splined drive surfaces 48 each have a radially outermost edge 48A and a radially innermost edge 48B. The external splined drive surface 48 extends from the radially outermost edge 48A to the radially innermost edge 48B. A first reference circle is defined at the radially innermost edge 48B and is centered on the rotational center axis A1. The first reference circle RC11 intersects the external splined non-drive surface 50 at a reference point 50R. The maximum circumferential width MW1 extends from the radially innermost edge 48B to the reference point 50R in the circumferential direction D1.

[0038] The multiple external splined non-drive surfaces 50 each have a radially outermost edge 50A and a radially innermost edge 50B. The external splined non-drive surface 50 extends from the radially outermost edge 50A to the radially innermost edge 50B. The reference point 50R is located between the radially outermost edge 50A and the radially innermost edge 50B. However, the reference point 50R can coincide with the radially innermost edge 50B.

[0039] The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 55 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 60 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 65 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is 68 mm. However, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW1 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the at least one external spline tooth 40 has a main external spline diameter DM11. The main external spline diameter DM11 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The main external spline diameter DM11 is equal to or greater than 29 mm. The main external spline diameter DM11 is equal to or less than 30 mm. In this embodiment, the main external spline diameter DM11 is 29.6 mm. However, the main external spline diameter DM11 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0041] The at least one external spline 40 has an external spline secondary diameter DM12. The at least one external spline 40 has an external spline root circle RC12 with the external spline secondary diameter DM12. However, the external spline root circle RC12 can have a different diameter than the external spline secondary diameter DM12. The external spline secondary diameter DM12 is equal to or less than 28 mm. The external spline secondary diameter DM12 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The external spline secondary diameter DM12 is equal to or greater than 27 mm. In this embodiment, the external spline secondary diameter DM12 is 27.2 mm. However, the external spline secondary diameter DM12 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0042] The larger diameter part 42 has an outer diameter DM13 that is larger than the outer diameter of the external splined main diameter DM11. The outer diameter DM13 lies between 32 mm and 40 mm. In this embodiment, the outer diameter DM13 is 35 mm. However, the outer diameter DM13 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0043] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the multiple external splined drive surfaces 48 each comprise a radial length RL11, defined from the outermost radial edge 48A to the innermost radial edge 48B. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 of the multiple external splined drive surfaces 48 is equal to or greater than 7 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 is equal to or greater than 10 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 is equal to or greater than 15 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the radial lengths RL11 is 19.5 mm. However, the sum of the radial lengths RL11 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0044] The multiple external spline teeth 40 have an additional radial length RL12. The additional radial lengths RL12 are each defined from the external spline root circle RC12 to the radially outermost ends 40A of the multiple external spline teeth 40. The total length of the additional radial lengths RL12 is equal to or greater than 12 mm. In this embodiment, the total length of the additional radial lengths RL12 is 31.85 mm. However, the total length of the additional radial lengths RL12 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0045] At least one of the at least nine external spline teeth 40 has an asymmetric shape with respect to a circumferential tip centerline CL1. The circumferential tip centerline CL1 is a line connecting the rotational center axis A1 and a circumferential center CP1 of the radially outermost end 40A of the external spline tooth 40. However, at least one of the external spline teeth 40 may have a symmetric shape with respect to the circumferential tip centerline CL1. The at least one of the at least nine external spline teeth 40 comprises the external spline drive surface 48 and the external spline non-drive surface 50.

[0046] The external splined drive surface 48 has a first external splined surface angle AG11. The first external splined surface angle AG11 is defined between the external splined drive surface 48 and a first radial line L11. The first radial line L11 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 to the radially outermost edge 48A of the external splined drive surface 48. The first outer helix angle PA11 or the second outer helix angle PA12 is defined between the adjacent first radial lines L11 (see, e.g., [reference]). Fig. 9).

[0047] The external spline non-drive surface 50 has a second external spline surface angle AG12. The second external spline surface angle AG12 is defined between the external spline non-drive surface 50 and a second radial line L12. The second radial line L12 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 to the radially outermost edge 50A of the external spline non-drive surface 50.

[0048] In this embodiment, the second external spline toothing surface angle AG12 differs from the first external spline toothing surface angle AG11. The first external spline toothing surface angle AG11 is smaller than the second external spline toothing surface angle AG12. However, the first external spline toothing surface angle AG11 can be equal to or greater than the second external spline toothing surface angle AG12.

[0049] The first external spline angle AG11 lies in the range of 0 degrees to 10 degrees. The second external spline surface angle AG12 lies in the range of 0 degrees to 60 degrees. In this embodiment, the first external spline surface angle AG11 is 5 degrees. The second external spline surface angle AG12 is 45 degrees. However, the first external spline surface angle AG11 and the second external spline surface angle AG12 are not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0050] As in the Fig. 13 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 14, the brake rotor support body 34 has at least one additional external splined tooth 52, which engages with the bicycle brake rotor 16 ( Fig. 4) is configured. In this embodiment, the brake rotor support body 34 has an additional base carrier 54 and several additional external splined teeth 52. The additional base carrier 54 has a tubular shape and extends from the hub body 36 along the axis of rotation A1. The additional external splined teeth 52 extend radially outwards from the additional base carrier 54. The total number of additional external splined teeth 52 is 52. However, the total number of additional external splined teeth 52 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0051] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 14, the at least one additional external spline tooth has an additional external spline main diameter DM14. As shown in Figure 14, the spline tooth has at least one additional external spline main diameter DM14. Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the additional external spline main diameter DM14 is larger than the external spline main diameter DM11. The additional external spline main diameter DM14 is essentially equal to the outer diameter DM13 of the larger-diameter part 42. However, the additional external spline main diameter DM14 may be equal to or smaller than the external spline main diameter DM11. The additional external spline main diameter DM14 may differ from the outer diameter DM13 of the larger-diameter part 42.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the hub axle 30 includes an axial contact surface 30B1 for contacting the bicycle frame BF. In this embodiment, the axial contact surface 30B1 can be made to contact the first frame BF1 of the bicycle frame BF. The first frame BF1 has a frame contact surface BF12. The axial contact surface 30B1 is in contact with the frame contact surface BF12 when the bicycle hub assembly 12 is attached to the bicycle frame BF by the wheel mounting structure WS.

[0053] A first axial length AL11 is defined from the axial contact surface 30B1 to the part 42 with the larger diameter in the axial direction D2 with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The first axial length AL11 ranges from 35 mm to 41 mm. The first axial length AL11 can be equal to or greater than 39 mm. The first axial length AL11 can also be in the range of 35 mm to 37 mm. In this embodiment, the first axial length AL11 is 36.2 mm. However, the first axial length AL11 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0054] The larger-diameter part 42 has an axial end 42A that is furthest from the axial contact surface 30B1 in the axial direction D2. A second axial length AL12 is defined from the axial contact surface 30B1 to the axial end 42A in the axial direction D2. The second axial length AL12 ranges from 38 mm to 47 mm. The second axial length AL12 can range from 44 mm to 45 mm. The second axial length AL12 can also be in the range of 40 mm to 41 mm. In this embodiment, the second axial length AL12 is 40.75 mm. However, the second axial length AL12 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0055] An axial length AL13 of the larger-diameter part 42 is in the range of 3 mm to 6 mm. In this embodiment, the axial length AL13 is 4.55 mm. However, the axial length AL13 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0056] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 comprises at least one chainring. This at least one chainring includes a smallest chainring SP1 and a largest chainring SP12. The smallest chainring SP1 can also be referred to as chainring SP12. The largest chainring SP12 can also be referred to as chainring SP12. In this embodiment, the at least one chainring further comprises chainrings SP2 to SP11. Chainring SP1 corresponds to the highest gear. Chainring SP12 corresponds to a low gear. The total number of chainrings in the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0057] The smallest sprocket SP1 comprises at least one sprocket tooth SP1B. The total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the smallest sprocket SP1 is equal to or less than 10. In this embodiment, the total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the smallest sprocket SP1 is equal to 10. However, the total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the smallest sprocket SP1 is not limited to this embodiment and the preceding range.

[0058] The largest sprocket SP12 comprises at least one sprocket tooth SP12B. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is equal to or greater than 46. The total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is equal to or greater than 50. In this embodiment, the total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is 51. However, the total number of at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is not limited to this embodiment and the preceding ranges.

[0059] The SP2 sprocket includes at least one SP2B sprocket tooth. The SP3 sprocket includes at least one SP3B sprocket tooth. The SP4 sprocket includes at least one SP4B sprocket tooth. The SP5 sprocket includes at least one SP5B sprocket tooth. The SP6 sprocket includes at least one SP6B sprocket tooth. The SP7 sprocket includes at least one SP7B sprocket tooth. The SP8 sprocket includes at least one SP8B sprocket tooth. The SP9 sprocket includes at least one SP9B sprocket tooth. The SP10 sprocket includes at least one SP10B sprocket tooth. The SP11 sprocket includes at least one SP11B sprocket tooth.

[0060] The total number of sprocket teeth SP2B (at least one) is 12. The total number of sprocket teeth SP3B (at least one) is 14. The total number of sprocket teeth SP4B (at least one) is 16. The total number of sprocket teeth SP5B (at least one) is 18. The total number of sprocket teeth SP6B (at least one) is 21. The total number of sprocket teeth SP7B (at least one) is 24. The total number of sprocket teeth SP8B (at least one) is 28. The total number of sprocket teeth SP9B (at least one) is 33. The total number of sprocket teeth SP10B (at least one) is 39. The total number of sprocket teeth SP11B (at least one) is 45. The total number of sprocket teeth SP2 to SP11 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0061] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the sprockets SP1 to SP12 are separate elements. However, at least one of the sprockets SP1 to SP12 can be at least partially integrally formed with another of the sprockets SP1 to SP12. The rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 comprises a sprocket holder 56, several spacers 58, a first ring 59A, and a second ring 59B. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprockets SP1 to SP12 are attached to the sprocket holder 56.

[0062] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, sprocket SP1 comprises a sprocket body SP1A and multiple sprocket teeth SP1B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP1B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP1A. Sprocket SP2 comprises a sprocket body SP2A and multiple sprocket teeth SP2B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP2B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP2A. Sprocket SP3 comprises a sprocket body SP3A and multiple sprocket teeth SP3B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP3B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP3A. Sprocket SP4 comprises a sprocket body SP4A and multiple sprocket teeth SP4B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP4B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP4A. Sprocket SP5 comprises a sprocket body SP5A and multiple sprocket teeth SP5B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP5B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP5A.The first ring 59A is positioned between sprockets SP3 and SP4. The second ring 59B is positioned between sprockets SP4 and SP5.

[0063] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the SP6 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP6A and multiple sprocket teeth SP6B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP6B extend radially outwards from the sprocket body SP6A. The SP7 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP7A and multiple sprocket teeth SP7B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP7B extend radially outwards from the sprocket body SP7A. The SP8 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP8A and multiple sprocket teeth SP8B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP8B extend radially outwards from the sprocket body SP8A.

[0064] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the SP9 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP9A and multiple sprocket teeth SP9B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP9B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP9A. The SP10 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP10A and multiple sprocket teeth SP10B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP10B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP10A. The SP11 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP11A and multiple sprocket teeth SP11B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP11B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP11A. The SP12 sprocket comprises a sprocket body SP12A and multiple sprocket teeth SP12B. The multiple sprocket teeth SP12B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP12A.

[0065] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, the sprocket holder 56 comprises a hub engagement section 60 and several support arms 62. The several support arms 62 extend radially outward from the hub engagement section 60. The support arm 62 includes a first to eighth mounting part 62A to 62H. The several spacers 58 comprise several first spacers 58A, several second spacers 58B, several third spacers 58C, several fourth spacers 58D, several fifth spacers 58E, several sixth spacers 58F, and several seventh spacers 58G.

[0066] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 23, the first spacers 58A are located between sprockets SP5 and SP6. The second spacers 58B are located between sprockets SP6 and SP7. The third spacers 58C are located between sprockets SP7 and SP8. The fourth spacers 58D are located between sprockets SP8 and SP9. The fifth spacers 58E are located between sprockets SP9 and SP10. The sixth spacers 58F are located between sprockets SP10 and SP11. The seventh spacers 58G are located between sprockets SP11 and SP12.

[0067] The sprocket SP6 and the first spacer 58A are attached to the first mounting section 62A by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP7 and the second spacer 58B are attached to the second mounting section 62B by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP8 and the third spacer 58C are attached to the third mounting section 62C by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP9 and the spacer 58D are attached to the fourth mounting section 62D by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP10 and the fifth spacer 58E are attached to the fifth mounting section 62E by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP11 and the sixth spacer 58F are attached to the sixth mounting section 62F by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive.The sprocket SP12 and the seventh spacer 58G are attached to the seventh mounting section 62G by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP5 and the second ring 59B are attached to the eighth mounting section 62H by a bonding structure, such as an adhesive. The hub engagement section 60, the sprockets SP1 to SP4, the first ring 59A, and the second ring 59B are held in the axial direction D2 between the larger-diameter part 42 and the locking flange 32B of the locking ring 32.

[0068] In this embodiment, each of the springs SP1 to SP12 is made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron, or titanium. Each of the sprocket holders 56, the first to seventh spacers 58A to 58G, the first ring 59A, and the second ring 59B are made of a non-metallic material, such as a resin. However, at least one of the springs SP1 to SP12 may be made at least partially of a non-metallic material. At least one of the sprocket holders 56, the first to seventh spacers 58A to 58G, the first ring 59A, and the second ring 59B may be made at least partially of a metallic material, such as aluminum, iron, or titanium.

[0069] The at least one chainring has at least one internal splined tooth designed to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 12. As in Fig. 24 and Fig. As shown in Figure 25, the at least one sprocket has at least ten internal splined teeth designed to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 12. The at least one internal splined tooth has multiple internal splined teeth. Thus, the at least one sprocket has multiple internal splined teeth designed to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 12. In this embodiment, the sprocket SP1 has at least ten internal splined teeth 64 designed to engage with the bicycle hub assembly 12. In this embodiment, the sprocket SP1 has internal splined teeth 64 designed to mesh with the external splined teeth 40 of the sprocket support body 28 of the bicycle hub assembly 12. The sprocket body SP1A has an annular shape. The internal splined teeth 64 extend radially inwards from the sprocket body SP1A.

[0070] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 26, the total number of internal wedge teeth is equal to or greater than 20. The total number of internal wedge teeth is equal to or greater than 25. In this embodiment, the total number of internal wedge teeth is 64. However, the total number of internal wedge teeth is not limited to these embodiments and the preceding areas.

[0071] The at least ten internal splines 64 have a first internal helix angle PA21 and a second internal helix angle PA22. At least two internal splines of the multiple internal splines 64 are arranged circumferentially at a first internal helix angle PA21 with respect to the axis of rotation A1 of the rear bicycle chainring assembly 14. At least two internal splines of the multiple internal splines 64 are arranged circumferentially at a second internal helix angle PA22 with respect to the axis of rotation A1. In this embodiment, the second internal helix angle PA22 differs from the first internal helix angle PA21. However, the second internal helix angle PA22 can be substantially the same as the first internal helix angle PA21.

[0072] In this embodiment, the internal spline teeth 64 are arranged circumferentially at the first inner helix angle PA21 in the circumferential direction D1. Two internal spline teeth of the internal spline teeth 64 are arranged at the second inner helix angle PA22 in the circumferential direction D1. However, at least two internal spline teeth of the internal spline teeth 64 can be arranged at a different inner helix angle in the circumferential direction D1.

[0073] The first internal slope angle PA21 ranges from 10 degrees to 20 degrees. The first internal slope angle PA21 ranges from 12 degrees to 15 degrees. The first internal slope angle PA21 ranges from 13 degrees to 14 degrees. In this embodiment, the first internal slope angle PA21 is 13.3 degrees. However, the first internal slope angle PA21 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0074] The second internal slope angle PA22 lies in the range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees. In this embodiment, the second internal slope angle PA22 is 26 degrees. However, the second internal slope angle PA22 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned range.

[0075] At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a first spline shape that differs from a second spline shape of another of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64. At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a first spline size that differs from a second spline size of another of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64. At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a cross-sectional shape that differs from a cross-sectional shape of another of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64. As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 27, the internal wedge teeth 64 can have the same shape. The internal wedge teeth 64 can have the same size. The internal wedge teeth 64 can have the same cross-sectional shape.

[0076] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 28, the at least one internal spline 64 comprises an internal spline drive surface 66 and an internal spline non-drive surface 68. The at least one internal spline 64 comprises several internal spline teeth 64. The several internal spline teeth 64 comprise several internal spline drive surfaces 66 in order to transmit the drive torque F1 from the bicycle hub assembly 12 during pedal actuation. Fig. 6) to be included. The multiple internal spline teeth 64 comprise multiple internal spline non-drive surfaces 68. The internal spline drive surface 66 is contactable with the sprocket support body 28 to transmit the drive torque F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28 during pedal actuation. The internal spline drive surface 66 faces the direction of drive rotation D11. The internal spline non-drive surface 68 is located on the opposite side of the internal spline drive surface 66 in the circumferential direction D1. The internal spline non-drive surface 68 faces the reverse direction of rotation D12 to prevent the drive torque F1 from being transmitted from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28 during pedal actuation.

[0077] The at least ten internal spline teeth 64 each have maximum circumferential widths MW2. The maximum circumferential width MW2 is defined as the maximum width required to absorb a compressive force F3 applied to the internal spline tooth 64. The maximum circumferential width MW2 is defined as a straight distance based on the internal spline drive surface 66.

[0078] The internal spline drive surface 66 has a radially outermost edge 66A and a radially innermost edge 66B. The internal spline drive surface 66 extends from the radially outermost edge 66A to the radially innermost edge 66B. A second reference circle RC21 is defined at the radially outermost edge 66A and is centered on the axis of rotation A1. The second reference circle RC21 intersects the internal spline non-drive surface 68 at a reference point 68R. The maximum circumferential width MW2 extends in the circumferential direction D1 from the radially innermost edge 66B to the reference point 68R.

[0079] The external splined non-drive surface 68 has a radially outermost edge 68A and a radially innermost edge 68B. The external splined non-drive surface 68 extends from the radially outermost edge 68A to the radially innermost edge 68B. The reference point 68R is located between the radially outermost edge 68A and the radially innermost edge 68B.

[0080] The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 40 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 45 mm. The sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 50 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is 50.8 mm. However, the sum of the maximum circumferential widths MW2 is not limited to this embodiment.

[0081] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 29, the at least one internal spline 64 has a main spline diameter DM21. The at least one internal spline has a root circle RC22 with the main spline diameter DM21. However, the root circle RC22 can have a different diameter than the main spline diameter DM21. The main spline diameter DM21 is equal to or less than 30 mm. The main spline diameter DM21 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The main spline diameter DM21 is equal to or greater than 29 mm. In this embodiment, the main spline diameter DM21 is 29.8 mm. However, the main spline diameter DM21 is not limited to this embodiment and the preceding ranges.

[0082] The at least one internal spline 64 has an internal spline secondary diameter DM22 equal to or less than 28 mm. The internal spline secondary diameter DM22 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The internal spline secondary diameter DM22 is equal to or greater than 27 mm. In this embodiment, the internal spline secondary diameter DM22 is 27.7 mm. However, the internal spline secondary diameter DM22 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0083] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 28, the multiple internal spline drive surfaces 66 have a radially outermost edge 66A and a radially innermost edge 66B. Each of the multiple internal spline drive surfaces 66 comprises a radial length RL21, defined from the radially outermost edge 66A to the radially innermost edge 66B. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 of the multiple internal spline drive surfaces 66 is equal to or greater than 7 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 is equal to or greater than 10 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 is equal to or greater than 15 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the radial lengths RL21 is 19.5 mm. However, the sum of the radial lengths RL21 is not limited to this embodiment and the preceding ranges.

[0084] The multiple internal spline teeth 64 have an additional radial length RL22. The additional radial lengths RL22 are each defined from the internal spline root circle RC22 to the radially innermost ends 64A of the multiple internal spline teeth 64. The total length of the additional radial lengths RL22 is equal to or greater than 12 mm. In this embodiment, the total length of the additional radial lengths RL22 is 27.95 mm. However, the total length of the additional radial lengths RL22 is not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned areas.

[0085] At least one of the internal spline teeth 64 has an asymmetric shape with respect to a circumferential tip centerline CL2. The circumferential tip centerline CL2 is a line connecting the rotation centerline A1 and a circumferential center CP2 of the radially innermost end 64A of the internal spline tooth 64. However, at least one of the internal spline teeth 64 may have a symmetric shape with respect to the circumferential tip centerline CL2. The at least one of the internal spline teeth 64 comprises the internal spline drive surface 66 and the internal spline non-drive surface 68.

[0086] The internal splined drive surface 66 has a first internal splined surface angle AG21. The first internal splined surface angle AG21 is defined between the internal splined drive surface 66 and a first radial line L21. The first radial line L21 extends from the rotation center axis A1 of the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 to the radially outermost edge 66A of the internal splined drive surface 66. The first internal helix angle PA21 or the second internal helix angle PA22 is defined between adjacent first radial lines L21 (see, for example, Figure 1). Fig. 26) defined.

[0087] The internal splined non-drive surface 68 has a second internal splined surface angle AG22. The second internal splined surface angle AG22 is defined between the internal splined non-drive surface 68 and a second radial line L22. The second radial line L22 extends from the rotational center axis A1 of the rear bicycle sprocket assembly 14 to the radially outermost edge 68A of the internal splined non-drive surface 68.

[0088] In this embodiment, the second internal spline surface angle AG22 differs from the first internal spline surface angle AG21. The first internal spline surface angle AG21 is smaller than the second internal spline surface angle AG22. However, the first internal spline surface angle AG21 can be equal to or greater than the second internal spline surface angle AG22.

[0089] The first internal spline angle AG21 lies in the range of 0 degrees to 10 degrees. The second internal spline angle AG22 lies in the range of 0 degrees to 60 degrees. In this embodiment, the first internal spline angle AG21 is 5 degrees. The second internal spline angle AG22 is 45 degrees. However, the first internal spline angle AG21 and the second internal spline angle AG22 are not limited to this embodiment and the aforementioned ranges.

[0090] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 30, the inner splined teeth 64 mesh with the outer splined teeth 40 to transmit the drive torque F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28. The inner splined drive surface 66 can be brought into contact with the outer splined drive surface 48 to transmit the drive torque F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28. The inner splined non-drive surface 68 is spaced from the outer splined non-drive surface 50 in a state in which the inner splined drive surface 66 is in contact with the outer splined drive surface 48.

[0091] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 31, the sprocket SP2 has several internal splined teeth 70. The sprocket SP3 has several internal splined teeth 72. The sprocket SP4 has several internal splined teeth 74. The first ring 59A has several internal splined teeth 76. As shown in Fig.As shown in Figure 32, the hub engagement section 60 of the sprocket holder 56 comprises several internal splines 78. The several internal splines 70 have essentially the same structure as the several internal splines 64. The several internal splines 72 have essentially the same structure as the several internal splines 64. The several internal splines 74 have essentially the same structure as the several internal splines 64. The several internal splines 76 have essentially the same structure as the several internal splines 64. The several internal splines 78 have essentially the same structure as the internal splines 64. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, they are not described in detail here.

[0092] 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 also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "with," "exhibit," and their derivatives.

[0093] The terms “link”, “section”, “part”, “element”, “body” and “structure”, when used in the singular, can have the double meaning of a single part or multiple parts.

[0094] The ordinal numbers, such as "first" and "second," as used in the present application, are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as indicating a specific order or the like. Furthermore, the term "first element," for example, does not imply the existence of a "second element," and the term "second element" does not imply the existence of a "first element."

[0095] The term “pair of”, as used herein, may include the configuration in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other, in addition to the configuration in which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures.

[0096] The expressions “a”, “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.

[0097] Finally, the terms of extent, such as "essentially," "by," and "approximately," as used herein, signify a reasonable degree of deviation from the modified term, such that the final result is not significantly altered. All numerical values ​​described in this application may be interpreted as encompassing "essentially," "by," and "approximately."

[0098] Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the teaching described above. It is therefore understood that the invention can be implemented differently within the scope of protection of the attached claims than specifically described here.

Claims

[1] Sprocket holder (56) for a rear bicycle sprocket assembly (14), wherein a plurality of sprockets (SP1-SP12) are attached to the sprocket holder (56), the sprocket holder (56) comprising: a hub engagement section (60) having at least ten internal wedge teeth (78) designed to engage with a bicycle hub assembly (12); which comprise at least ten internal splined teeth (78) and several internal splined drive surfaces (66) to receive a drive torque (F1) on a sprocket support body (28) of a bicycle hub assembly (12) during pedal actuation, the multiple internal splined drive surfaces (66) each comprise a radial outermost edge (66A), a radial innermost edge (66B), and a radial length (RL21) defined from the radial outermost edge (66A) to the radial innermost edge (66B), and a total of the radial lengths (RL21) of the multiple internal splined drive surfaces (66) is equal to or greater than 7 mm; comprising at least one of the at least ten internal wedge teeth (78): an internal splined drive surface (66) with an internal splined surface angle (AG21) defined between the internal splined drive surface (66) and a radial line (L21) extending from a rotational center axis (A1) of the sprocket holder (56) to a radially outermost edge (66A) of the internal splined drive surface (66); and the internal spline surface angle (AG21) lies in a range of 0 degrees to 10 degrees. [2] Sprocket holder (56) according to claim 1 wherein a total number of the at least ten internal splined teeth (78) is equal to or greater than 20. [3] Sprocket holder (56) according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the sprocket holder (56) comprises a plurality of support arms (62) which extend radially outwards from the hub engagement section 60 with respect to the axis of rotation of the sprocket holder (56). [4] Sprocket holder (56) according to one of claims 1 to 3 wherein at least one of the at least ten internal splined teeth (78) has a shape which differs from a shape of another of the at least ten internal splined teeth (78). [5] Sprocket holder (56) according to one of claims 1 to 4 wherein at least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth (78) has a first spline size which differs from a second spline size of a further one of the at least ten internal spline teeth (78). [6] Chain wheel holder (56) according to one of claims 1 to 5 wherein at least two internal splined teeth (78) of the at least ten internal splined teeth (78) are arranged circumferentially in a first inner helix angle (PA21) with respect to a rotational center axis (A1) of the rear bicycle chain wheel assembly (14), and the first inner helix angle (PA21) is in the range of 10 degrees to 20 degrees. [7] Sprocket holder (56) according to one of claims 1 to 6 wherein at least two internal spline teeth (78) of the at least ten internal spline teeth (78) are arranged circumferentially in a second inner helix angle (PA22) with respect to the rotational center axis (A1) and wherein the second inner helix angle (PA22) differs from the first inner helix angle (PA21). [8] Bicycle drivetrain, comprising: a rear bicycle chainring assembly (14) comprising the chainring holder (56) according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and a bicycle hub assembly (12) comprising a chain wheel support body (28) having at least ten external splined teeth (40) designed to engage with the rear bicycle chain wheel assembly (14), each of the at least ten external splined teeth (40) having an external splined drive surface (48) and an external splined non-drive surface (50).

Images