BICYCLE CHAIN ​​SHIFT

Abstract

A bicycle derailleur 10 is generally equipped with a base element 12, a movable element 14, and a chain guide 16. The bicycle derailleur 10 further comprises a reinforcing element 34. The movable element 14 is movably coupled to the base element 12. The chain guide 16 is pivotally coupled to the movable element 14 about a first axis of rotation A1. The reinforcing element 34 is pivotally coupled to the movable element 14. The reinforcing element 34 includes a first section 34a and a second section 34b. The first section 34a is arranged at least partially opposite the chain guide 16 in an axial direction X of the first axis of rotation A1 with respect to the movable element 14. The second section 34b is non-rotatably attached to the chain guide 16, so that the reinforcing element 34 is non-rotatably coupled to the chain guide 16.

Description

This disclosure relates generally to a bicycle derailleur. More particularly, the present invention relates to a bicycle derailleur having a base member, a movable member, and a chain guide.Generally, a bicycle typically uses a bicycle drive train to transmit a pedaling force to a rear wheel. The drive train of a bicycle often uses one or two bicycle derailleurs to selectively move a bicycle chain from one of a plurality of sprockets to another to change the speeds of the bicycle. A bicycle derailleur typically includes a base member, a movable member, and a chain guide. The base member is configured to be fixed to a frame of the bicycle. The movable member is movably coupled to the base member via a link or a linkage. The chain guide is coupled to the movable member. The chain guide shifts a chain between a pair of sprockets in response to the movement of the movable member relative to the base member to perform a shifting operation. The bicycle derailleur can be manually controlled by a manually operated actuator connected to the derailleur via a mechanical cable or by a motor unit to perform the shifting operation.The present invention relates generally to various features of a bicycle derailleur. An object of the present invention is to provide a bicycle derailleur that has increased rigidity in a connection between a movable member and a chain guide of the bicycle derailleur.In view of the related art and according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a bicycle derailleur that basically includes a base member, a movable member, and a chain guide. The bicycle derailleur further comprises a gain element. The movable member is movably coupled to the base member. The chain guide is pivotably coupled to the movable element about a first axis of rotation (pivot axis). The reinforcing member is pivotally coupled to the movable member. The reinforcement member includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is at least partially disposed opposite the chain guide in an axial direction of the first rotational axis with respect to the movable member. The second portion is non-rotatably secured to the chain guide such that the reinforcing member is non-rotatably coupled to the chain guide.With the bicycle derailleur according to the first aspect, the rigidity of the connection between the movable member and the chain guide can be increased.According to a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the first aspect is configured such that the second portion is offset from the first portion when viewed in a direction parallel to the first rotational axis. With the bicycle derailleur according to the second aspect, the rigidity of the connection between the movable member and the chain guide can be more reliably increased.According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the first aspect or the second aspect further includes a pivot axis (pivot axis) that pivotally couples the chain guide to the movable member. The pivot axis defines the first axis of rotation. With the bicycle derailleur according to the third aspect, the chain guide can reliably pivot relative to the movable member about the first rotation axis.According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the third aspect further includes a pivot axis sleeve provided on the movable member and pivotally supporting the pivot axis therein. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fourth aspect, the pivot axis can easily and reliably pivot relative to the movable member.According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the third aspect or the fourth aspect is configured so that the chain guide is fixed to the pivot axis by a first fixing member. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fifth aspect, the chain guide can be easily attached to the movable member so that the chain guide can reliably pivot relative to the movable member.In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the fifth aspect is configured such that the pivot axis includes a first axial end and the first fastening member is coupled to the first axial end. With the bicycle derailleur according to the sixth aspect, the attachment of the chain guide to the pivot axis can be facilitated.According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the third to sixth aspects is configured so that the first portion is fixed to the pivot axis by a second fixing member. With the bicycle derailleur according to the seventh aspect, the bicycle derailleur can be easily implemented with an increased rigidity of the connection between the movable member and the chain guide.In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the seventh aspect is configured such that the pivot axis includes a second axial end and the second fastening member is coupled to the second axial end. With the bicycle derailleur according to the eighth aspect, the attachment of the reinforcing member to the pivot axis can be facilitated.In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured so that the second portion is fixed to the chain guide by a third fixing member. With the bicycle derailleur according to the ninth aspect, the reinforcing member can be easily attached to the chain guide.In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the ninth aspect is configured so that the third fastening member includes a head portion and a threaded portion. The head portion abuts the chain guide. The second portion includes a blind bore that threadably receives the threaded portion of the third fastener. With the bicycle derailleur according to the tenth aspect, the third fastening member is not visible from the outward side of the bicycle derailleur.In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured so that the second portion is configured to limit the pivotal movement of the chain guide in at least one direction about the first rotational axis. With the bicycle derailleur according to the eleventh aspect, the second portion functions as a stopper member for limiting the pivotal movement of the chain guide, so that a separate stopper member is not required.In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is configured so that the reinforcing member includes a connecting portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The connecting portion extends along an outer surface of the movable member. With the bicycle derailleur according to the twelfth aspect, the reinforcing member can be easily attached to the movable member and the chain guide at preferred locations.According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the twelfth aspect is configured so that the connecting portion includes an inclined surface. The inclined surface is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the first axis of rotation. With the bicycle derailleur according to the thirteenth aspect, the connecting portion can protect the movable member from the impact of foreign matters.In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the thirteenth aspect further comprises at least one biasing member operatively disposed between the movable member and the chain guide. The at least one biasing member biases the chain guide relative to the movable member about the first rotational axis in a first direction. The inclined surface faces in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to the first rotation axis. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fourteenth aspect, the chain guide can be properly positioned with respect to the movable member, and the inclined surface can be properly positioned to protect the movable member from the impact of foreign matter.In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects further comprises at least one biasing member operatively disposed between the movable member and the chain guide. The at least one biasing member biases the chain guide relative to the movable member about the first rotational axis in a first direction. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fifteenth aspect, the chain guide can be properly positioned with respect to the movable member.In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects is configured so that the reinforcing member is a member separate from the chain guide. With the bicycle derailleur according to the sixteenth aspect, the chain guide and the reinforcing member can be manufactured more easily.In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects further includes a link member movably coupling the movable member to the base member. With the bicycle derailleur according to the seventeenth aspect, the movable member can be reliably supported with respect to the base member by a link member for movement relative to the base member.In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects is configured so that the chain guide includes at least one pulley. With the bicycle derailleur according to the eighteenth aspect, a chain can be reliably guided and / or tensioned via at least one guide pulley.In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the eighteenth aspect is configured so that the at least one pulley has a rotational axis (rotational axis) spaced apart from the first rotational axis of the chain guide. With the bicycle derailleur according to the nineteenth aspect, a chain can be reliably tensioned over the at least one pulley.In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the nineteenth aspect is configured so that the at least one pulley includes a first pulley having a first rotation axis spaced apart from the first rotation axis of the chain guide and a second pulley having a second rotation axis spaced apart from the first rotation axis of the chain guide. With the bicycle derailleur according to the twentieth aspect, a chain can be reliably tensioned via a first guide pulley and reliably guided via a second guide pulley.Other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle derailleur will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the bicycle derailleur.Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure, wherein: FIG. 1 is a side view of a bicycle equipped with a bicycle derailleur (i.e., a bicycle rear derailleur) according to a first embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is an outline of the bicycle of FIG. 1 equipped with the bicycle derailleur viewed from the front of the bicycle and along a longitudinal direction to show a bicycle center plane vertically bisecting the frame of the bicycle; FIG. 3 is an outer side view of the bicycle derailleur coupled to the bicycle frame shown in FIG. 1 with the chain guide in a first rotational position; FIG. 4 is an outer side view of a portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 with the chain guide in the second rotational position; FIG. 5 is an enlarged outer side view of the portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIG. 4 ; FIG. 6 is an enlarged inner side view of the portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 ; FIG. 7 is an enlarged front view of the portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6; FIG. 8 is an enlarged rear view of the portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 7; FIG. 9 is an enlarged plan view of the portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 8; FIG. 10 is a first, partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 ; FIG. 11 is a second, partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 ; FIG. 12 is a third, partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 ; and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 4-9 as viewed along section line 13-13 in FIG. 5.Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.Referring first to FIG. 1, a bicycle B equipped with a bicycle derailleur 10 according to an exemplary embodiment is illustrated. Here, the bicycle B is illustrated as a bicycle with electric assistance. However, the bicycle derailleur 10 can be used for any other type of bicycle, such as a mountain bike, a cyclocross bicycle, a race bicycle, a city wheel, a cargo wheel, and a recumbent wheel.As illustrated in FIG. 1, the bicycle B includes a bicycle frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The bicycle frame F basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (a swing arm). The bicycle frame F is further provided with a front fork FF and a handlebar H for steering the bicycle B. The bicycle B further includes an adjustable seat post SP coupled to the seat tube of the bicycle frame F to support a bicycle seat S at the upper end.The bicycle B further includes a drive train DT. Here, the drive train DT is, for example, a chain drive including a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets RS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank axis CA 1 and a pair of crank arms CA 2. The crank axle CA 1 is rotatably supported on the front frame body FB. The crank arms CA 2 are provided at opposite ends of the crank axle CA 1. A pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each of the crank arms CA 2. The front sprocket FS is provided on the crank C to rotate together with the crank axis CA 1. The rear sprockets RS are provided on a hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN runs around the front sprocket FS and one of the rear sprockets RS. A human driving force is applied to the pedals PD by a rider of the bicycle B, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets RS. Although the powertrain DT is illustrated as a chain powertrain, the powertrain DT may be selected from any type of powertrain and may be a belt drive or a shaft drive. Here, the bicycle B further includes a drive unit DU configured to apply a driving force to the crank axle CA 1 of the bicycle B.In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 is an electric derailleur. The bicycle derailleur 10 is configured to move the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS in response to either an automatic shift signal from a bicycle computer or a shift signal input from a user via an operating device OD such as an electric shift lever. The bicycle frame F is provided with a power supply BT for supplying electric power to the bicycle derailleur 10. The power supply BT may be connected to the bicycle derailleur 10 via an electric cable W, for example, to supply electric power thereto. In this case, the power supply BT is provided in a down tube of the bicycle frame F. Alternatively, the power supply BT may be provided on the bicycle derailleur 10 or on another portion of the bicycle frame F.In FIG. 2, an outline of the bicycle B is illustrated as viewed from the front and the longitudinal direction to show a bicycle center plane CP vertically bisecting a frame F of the bicycle B. The bicycle center plane CP passes through a center of the bicycle frame F in a width direction of the bicycle frame F. The bicycle center plane CP separates a left side from a right side of the bicycle B. The following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "lateral", "longitudinal", "upward", and "downward", as well as any other similar directional terms refer to the directions determined based on a rider seated upright on the seat S of the bicycle B facing the handlebar H of the bicycle B.Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the bicycle derailleur 10 will be described in detail. The bicycle derailleur 10 basically includes a base member 12, a movable member 14, and a chain guide 16. the bicycle derailleur 10 further includes a connecting member 18. the connecting member 18 movably couples the movable member 14 to the base member 12. the base member 12 is configured to be attached to the frame F of the bicycle B. The movable member 14 is movably coupled to the base member 12. Specifically, the link member 18 movably couples the movable member 14 to the base member 12.As mentioned above, the link member 18 movably connects the movable member 14 to the base member 12. The first link 18A and the second link 18B allow relative movement of the movable member 14 with respect to the base member 12 when the bicycle derailleur 10 displaces the chain CN in a lateral direction. As illustrated, the first link 18A is closer to the bicycle center plane CP than the second link 18B in a state where the bicycle derailleur 10 is mounted on the bicycle frame F as seen in FIG. 1. In other words, the first link 18A is located inside the second link 18B relative to the bicycle center plane CP in a state where the bicycle derailleur 10 is mounted on the bicycle frame F. On the other hand, the second link 18B is located outside the first link 18A relative to the bicycle center plane CP. Thus, the first link 18A may be considered an inner link here because the first link 18A is closer to the bicycle center plane CP than the second link 18B. On the other hand, the second link 18B can be considered an outer link because the second link 18B is farther from the bicycle center plane CP than the first link 18A. Here, the first link 18A and the second link 18B are pivotally connected to the base member 12 and the movable member 14 to form a four-bar linkage system. The four-bar linkage system preferably further includes a biasing member (e.g., a torsion spring) disposed between the first link 18A and the second link 18B to accommodate any play.As already mentioned, the illustrated embodiment of the bicycle derailleur 10 is an electric derailleur. Therefore, the bicycle derailleur 10 herein further includes an actuator 20. The power supply PS is provided to the second connector 18B. Alternatively, the power supply BT may be configured to supply the actuator 20 with electric power via the electric cable W. The actuator 20 is configured to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12 in response to a shifting operation. The shifting operation may be a manual shifting operation in which the operating device OD or another operating device is operated to generate a shifting signal that is transmitted to the actuator 20 to operate the bicycle derailleur 10. The shifting operation may also be an automatic shifting operation in which a shifting signal is generated by a controller based on one or more operating states of the bicycle B.The actuator 20 may be any type of actuator as desired and / or as needed. Thus, the actuator 20 is not limited to the actuator 20 illustrated here. Moreover, the actuator 20 may be omitted, and the movable member 14 may be moved relative to the base member 12 by a control cable such as a Bowden cable. Basically, in the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 20 is an electric actuator that receives shift commands either via wireless signals from the actuator OD or via the electric cable W. The electrical cable W may use either Poweline Communication (PLC) or a dedicated signal line to transmit the switching signals to the actuator 20. The operation device OD may communicate with the power supply BT through either wired or wireless communication. In the case of the actuator 20 of the illustrated embodiments, the actuator 20 houses a reversible electric motor, a reduction gear, and an electronic controller.In this case, the actuator 20 is provided on the base member 12. The electric motor of the actuator 20 is connected to one of the first link 18A and the second link 18B of the link member 18 via the reduction gear to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. In other words, the electric motor of the actuator 20 is configured to apply a torque between the link member 18 and the base member 12 such that the link member 18 pivots relative to the base member 12.As already mentioned, the base member 12 is configured to be mounted on the bicycle frame F. Specifically, the base member 12 includes a frame mounting structure, such as a fastening bolt 22, configured to be attached to the bicycle frame F. Thus, the base member 12 is laterally stationary with respect to the bicycle frame F when the movable member 14 is moved to slide the bicycle chain CN. The base member 12 is preferably made of a rigid material such as a light metal (for example, an aluminum alloy or a fiber-reinforced plastic). Preferably, the base member 12 is pivotally supported on the mounting bolt 22 defining an axis of rotation A 2. The axis of rotation A 2 is sometimes also referred to as the B-axis of a derailleur. The base member 12 may also include a pair of adjustment bolts configured to set an outermost position of the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12 and an innermost position of the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. Preferably, the adjustment bolts are contactable with one of the first link 18A and the second link 18B of the connecting member 18.As seen in FIGS. 10 to 13, the bicycle derailleur 10 further includes a pivot axis 24. the pivot axis 24 pivotally couples the chain guide 16 to the movable member 14. the pivot axis 24 defines the first pivot axis A 1. The pivot axis 24 is fixedly coupled to the chain guide 16 and pivotally coupled to the movable member 14. In this way, the chain guide 16 is pivotally mounted to the movable member 14 about the pivot axis 24 to pivot about the first pivot axis A 1. The first axis of rotation A 1 is sometimes also referred to as a P-axis of a derailleur. Here, as seen in FIG. 13, the chain guide 16 is fixed to the pivot axis 24 by a first fixing member 26. The first fastening element 26 is a fastening screw. The pivot axis 24 includes, in particular, a first axial end 28. The pivot axis 24 includes a second axial end 30. The first axial end 28 has a first threaded bore 28a and the second axial end 30 has a second threaded bore 30a. The first fastener 26 is threaded into the first threaded bore 28 aof the pivot axis 24 to secure the chain guide 16 to the first axial end 28 of the pivot axis 24. In other words, the first fastener 26 is coupled to the first axial end 28. In this way, the pivot axis 24 is pivotally mounted to the movable member 14. In this way, the chain guide 16 and the pivot axis 24 pivot together relative to the movable member 14.Basically, the movable member 14 is movably disposed relative to the base member 12 to move between retracted and extended positions for shifting the chain CN. The movable member 14 is provided with the chain guide 16 for guiding and tensioning the chain CN. As already mentioned, the chain guide 16 is pivotably coupled to the movable element 14 via the pivot axis 24. The movable member 14 is made of a suitable rigid material such as an aluminum alloy or a fiber-reinforced plastic.In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 further includes a pivot axis sleeve 32. the pivot axis sleeve 32 is provided on the movable member 14 and pivotally supports the pivot axis 24 therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the pivot axis sleeve 32 is further secured to the movable member 14 by overmoulding the movable member 14 onto the pivot axis sleeve 32. However, the pivot axis sleeve 32 can also be fastened to the movable element 14 in another manner, as required and / or desired. Here, the pivot axis sleeve 32 is made of a metallic material. However, the pivot shaft sleeve 32 may be made of other suitable materials as needed and / or desired.In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 further includes a reinforcing member 34. On the other hand, the reinforcing member 34 is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14. In this way, the reinforcing member 34 pivots with the chain guide 16 about the first rotation axis A 1. Basically, the reinforcing member 34 includes a first portion 34 aand a second portion 34 b. Here, the reinforcing member 34 further includes a connecting portion 34 c. The connecting portion 34 cconnects the first portion 34 aand the second portion 34 b. The connecting portion 34 cextends along an outer surface 14 aof the movable member 14. Alternatively, the reinforcing member 34 may be integrally formed with the chain guide 16.The first portion 34 ais fastened to the pivot axis 24 by a second fastening element 36. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the second fastener 36 is coupled to the second axial end 30. Here, the second fastening element 36 is a fastening screw. The first portion 34a has a through hole 34a1 for receiving therethrough a threaded shaft of the second fastener 36. The second fastener 36 is threaded into the second threaded bore 30 aof the pivot axis 24 to secure the reinforcing member 34 to the second axial end 30 of the pivot axis 24. In other words, the second fastening element 36 fixedly couples the reinforcing element 34 to the second axial end 30 of the pivot axis 24. In this way, the reinforcing member 34 and the pivot axis 24 pivot together relative to the movable member 14.The second portion 34 bis non-rotatably fixed to the chain guide 16 so that the reinforcing member 34 is non-rotatably connected to the chain guide 16. For example, the second portion 34 bis fixed to the chain guide 16 by a third fixing member 38. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the third fastening element 38 is a fastening screw. Here, the third fastening member 38 has a head portion 38 aand a threaded portion 38 b. The head portion 38a abuts against the chain guide 16. The second portion 34 bincludes a blind bore 34 b 1 that threadably receives the threaded portion 38 bof the third fastener 38 to secure the reinforcing member 34 to the chain guide 16. In this way, the chain guide 16, the reinforcing member 34, and the pivot axis 24 are pivotally mounted to the movable member 14. Thus, the chain guide 16, the reinforcing member 34, and the pivot axis 24 pivot together about the first rotation axis A 1 with respect to the movable member 14.As seen in FIG. 3, the second portion 34 bfunctions as a stopper for the chain guide 16. Specifically, the second portion 34 bbuts the movable member 14 to limit the pivotal movement of the chain guide 16 in a first direction D 1 about the first rotational axis A 1. Preferably, the second portion 34 bis offset from the first portion 34 ain a direction parallel to the first rotation axis A 1. The first portion 34 ais at least partially disposed opposite the chain guide 16 in an axial direction X of the first rotational axis A 1 with respect to the movable member 14. In other words, the first portion 34 ais disposed on a non-frame-facing side of the movable member 14, while the chain guide 16 is disposed on a frame-facing side of the movable member 14.Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the connecting portion 34 cincludes an inclined surface 34 c 1. The inclined surface 34 c 1 is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the first rotation axis A 1. Specifically, the inclined surface 34 c 1 is angled with respect to the first rotation axis A 1 such that a foreign matter incident on the inclined surface 34 c 1 is discharged from the movable member 14. The inclined surface 34 c 1 faces generally toward the front of the bicycle B in a state where the bicycle derailleur 10 is mounted on the frame F and the chain guide 16 has been rotated in a second direction D 2 about the first rotation axis A 1. The inclined surface 34 c 1 faces in the second direction D 2. The second direction D 2 is opposite to the first direction D 1 with respect to the first rotation axis A 1.As seen in FIGS. 10 to 13, the bicycle derailleur 10 further includes at least one biasing member 40. Specifically, the at least one biasing member 40 biases the chain guide 16 with respect to the movable member 14 about the first rotation axis A 1 in the first direction D 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 40 includes an outer biasing member 42 and an inner biasing member 44. Here, the outer biasing member 42 forms a first wound torsion spring and the inner biasing member 44 forms a second wound torsion spring. The outer biasing member 42 has a larger diameter than the inner biasing member 44. In the first embodiment, the outer biasing member 42 is concentrically disposed about the inner biasing member 44. As seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, the outer biasing member 42 and the inner biasing member 44 are shown in the unloaded state. Preferably, when the bicycle derailleur 10 is in an assembled state, the outer biasing member 42 and the inner biasing member 44 are biased to bias the chain guide 16 and an intermediate member 52 about the first rotational axis A 1 in the first direction D 1 with respect to the movable member 14.As seen in FIGS. 10-12, the outer biasing member 42 includes a first end portion 42 aand a second end portion 42 b. The outer biasing member 42 further includes a coiled portion 42 cthat connects the first end portion 42 aand the second end portion 42 b. The inner biasing member 44 includes a first end portion 44 aand a second end portion 44 b. The inner biasing member 44 further includes a coiled portion 44 cconnecting the first end portion 44 aand the second end portion 44 b. The first end portion 42 aof the outer biasing member 42 and the first end portion 44 aof the inner biasing member 44 are engaged with the movable member 14. Specifically, in the assembled state, the first end portion 42 aof the outer biasing member 42 is engaged with a stopper 14 b(see FIG. 11 ) of the movable member 14, and the first end portion 44 aof the inner biasing member 44 is engaged with a stopper 14 c(see FIG. 11 ) of the movable member 14. The second end portion 42 bof the outer biasing member 42 and the second end portion 44 bof the inner biasing member 44 are engaged with the intermediate member 52. Specifically, in the assembled state, the second end portion 42 bof the outer biasing member 42 is engaged with a hole or recess 52 aof the intermediate member 52, and the second end portion 44 bof the inner biasing member 44 is engaged with a hole or recess 52 bof the intermediate member 52.The intermediate member 52 is non-rotatably coupled to the chain guide 16. In this way, the second end portion 42 bof the outer biasing member 42 and the second end portion 44 bof the inner biasing member 44 are coupled to the chain guide 16. Here, the intermediate member 52 is a disk-shaped member disposed between the movable member 14 and the chain guide 16. The intermediate member 52 includes a protrusion 52 c. The protrusion 52 cis disposed on the side of the intermediate member 52 facing the chain guide 16. As seen in FIG. 6, the protrusion 52 cis engaged with a hole 58 in the chain guide 16. In this way, the chain guide 16 and the intermediate member 52 pivot together about the first rotation axis A 1. In addition, the chain guide 16 and the intermediate member 52 are biased in the first direction D 1 about the first rotation axis A 1 by the at least one biasing member 40 (for example, the outer biasing member 42 and the inner biasing member 44 in the illustrated embodiment).In the illustrated embodiment, the chain guide 16 includes a first chain cage plate 60 and a second chain cage plate 62. The first chain cage plate 60 and the second chain cage plate 62 are made of a suitable rigid material such as an aluminum alloy or a fiber-reinforced plastic. Preferably, the chain guide 16 includes at least one idler pulley. The at least one idler pulley has an axis of rotation spaced from the first axis of rotation A 1 of the chain guide 16. The at least one idler pulley here includes a first idler pulley 64 and a second idler pulley 66. The first pulley 64 has a first rotation axis R 1 spaced apart from the first rotation axis A 1 of the chain guide 16. The second pulley 66 has a second rotation axis R 2 spaced apart from the first rotation axis A 1 of the chain guide 16. Alternatively, the second deflection roller 66 can be arranged such that the second axis of rotation R 2 of the second deflection roller 66 is identical to the first axis of rotation A 1 as required and / or desired. The first deflecting roller 64 can also be referred to as a tensioning roller in the embodiment shown. The second deflecting roller 66 can also be referred to as a guide roller in the embodiment shown. The first deflection roller 64 and the second deflection roller 66 are manufactured from a suitable rigid material, for example plastic. The retracted position of the chain guide 16 corresponds to the position of the second pulley 66 of the chain guide 16 over the largest of the rear sprockets RS. The extended position of the chain guide 16 corresponds to the position of the second pulley 66 of the chain guide 16 over the smallest of the rear sprockets RS.For understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open ended terms that specify the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meaning as the terms "include", "have", and their derivatives. Also, the terms "part", "section", "portion", "member", or "element", when used in the singular, may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise indicated.As used herein, the directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rearward", "up", "down", "above", "below", "up", "down", "up", "down", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "perpendicular" and "transverse" as well as any other similar directional terms refer to the directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) that is in an upright riding position and equipped with a bicycle derailleur. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe the bicycle derailleur are to be understood with respect to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) that is in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the bicycle derailleur. The terms "left" and "right" are used to refer to "right" when viewed from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle) as viewed from the right side, and "left" when viewed from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle) as viewed from the left side.The phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of a desired selection. For example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "both of two choices" when the number of choices is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single choice" or "any combination of at least two choices" if the number of choices is at least three. Likewise, the term "and / or" as used herein means "either or both.". For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C. In other words, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B" in this disclosure.It is understood that although the terms "first / r / s" and "second / r / s" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component described above could be referred to as a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.The term "attached" or "attached" as used herein includes configurations in which one element is directly attached to another element by directly attaching the element to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other element by attaching the element to the intermediate element(s) which are in turn attached to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integrated with another element, that is, one element is substantially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example "joined", "joined", "coupled", "mounted", "bonded", "attached" and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately" as used herein mean a degree of deviation from the modified term such that the end result is not substantially changed.Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless expressly stated otherwise, the size, shape, location, or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, so long as the changes do not substantially impair their intended function. Unless expressly stated otherwise, components directly joined or contacting each other may have intermediate structures so long as the changes do not substantially impair their intended function. The functions of one element may be performed by two elements and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary that all advantages be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Any feature that differs from the prior art alone or in combination with other features should also be considered a separate description of applicant's other inventions, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features. The foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are therefore provided for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting the invention as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.REFERENCE NUMERALS10 Bicycle derailleur 12 Base member 14 Movable member 14 a Außenfläche surface 14 bStop 14 cStop 16 Chain guide 18 Connecting member 18A First connecting member 18B Second connecting member 20 Actuator 22 Fixing screw 24 Pivot axis 26 First fixing member 28 First axial end 28 aFirst threaded hole 30 Second axial end 30 aSecond threaded hole 32 Pivot axis sleeve 34 Reinforcing member 34 aFirst portion 34 a 1 Through hole 34 bSecond portion 34 b 1 Blind bore 34 c Connecting portion 34 c 1 Inclined surface 36 Second fixing member 38 Third fixing member 38 a Kopfabschnitt portion 38 b Gewinde portion 40 Biasing member 42 Outer biasing member 42 aFirst end portion 42 bSecond end portion 42 c Gewunden portion 44 Inner biasing member 44 aFirst end portion 44 bSecond end portion 44 c Portion 52 Intermediate member 52 a Loch / recess 52 b Loch / hole 52 cprotruding 58 hole 60 first chain cage plate 62 second chain cage plate 64 first pulley 66 second pulley A 1 first rotation axis A 2 rotation axis B bicycle BT power supply C crank CA 1 crank axis CA 2 crank arm CN chain CP bicycle center plane D 1 first direction D 2 second direction DT drive train DU drive unit F bicycle frame FB front frame body FF front fork FS front sprocket FW front wheel H handlebar OD operating device PD pedal PS power supply RB rear frame body (swing arm) RS rear sprocket RW rear wheel R 1 first rotation axis R 2 second rotation axis S bicycle seat SP adjustable seat post w electric cable X axial direction

Claims

A bicycle derailleur (10) comprising: a base member (12); a movable member (14) movably coupled to the base member (12); a chain guide (16) pivotally coupled to the movable member (14) about a first axis of rotation (A1); and a reinforcing member (34) pivotally coupled to the movable member (14), the reinforcing member (34) including a first portion (34a) and a second portion (34b), the first portion (34a) being at least partially opposite the chain guide (16) in an axial direction (X) of the first axis of rotation (A1) with respect to the movable member (14), the second portion (34b) being non-rotatably attached to the chain guide (16) such that the reinforcing member (34) is non-rotatably coupled to the chain guide (16).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 1, wherein the second portion (34b) is offset from the first portion (34a) when viewed in a direction parallel to the first rotational axis (A1).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a pivot axis (24) pivotally coupling the chain guide (16) to the movable member (14), the pivot axis (24) defining the first pivot axis (A1).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 3, further comprising a pivot shaft sleeve (32) provided on the movable member (14) and pivotally supporting the pivot shaft (24) therein.The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the chain guide (16) is fixed to the pivot axis (24) by a first fixing member (26).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 5, wherein the pivot axis (24) includes a first axial end (28) and the first fastener (26) is coupled to the first axial end (28).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the first portion (34a) is fixed to the pivot axis (24) by a second fixing member (36).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 7, wherein the pivot axis (24) includes a second axial end (30) and the second attachment member (36) is coupled to the second axial end (30).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second portion (34b) is fixed to the chain guide (16) by a third fixing member (38).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 9, wherein the third fastener (38) includes a head portion (38a) and a threaded portion (38b), the head portion (38a) abuts the chain guide (16), and the second portion (34b) includes a blind bore (34b1) that threadably receives the threaded portion (38b) of the third fastener (38).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the second portion (34b) is configured to limit the pivotal movement of the chain guide (16) in at least one direction about the first axis of rotation (A1).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the reinforcing member (34) includes a connecting portion (34c) connecting the first portion (34a) and the second portion (34b), and the connecting portion (34c) extends along an outer surface (14a) of the movable member (14).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 12, wherein the connecting portion (34c) includes an inclined surface (34c1), and the inclined surface (34c1) is non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the first rotational axis (A1).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 13, further comprising at least one biasing member (40) operatively disposed between the movable member (14) and the chain guide (16), wherein the at least one biasing member (40) biases the chain guide (16) relative to the movable member (14) about the first axis of rotation (A1) in a first direction (D1), wherein the inclined surface (34c1) relative to the first axis of rotation (A1) is in a second direction (D2) opposite the first direction (D1).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising at least one biasing member (40) operatively disposed between the movable member (14) and the chain guide (16), wherein the at least one biasing member (40) biases the chain guide (16) relative to the movable member (14) about the first rotational axis (A1) in a first direction (D1).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the reinforcing member (34) is a separate member from the chain guide (16).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a link member (18) movably coupling the movable member (14) to the base member (12).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the chain guide (16) includes at least one pulley.The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 18, wherein the at least one pulley has an axis of rotation spaced from the first axis of rotation (A1) of the chain guide (16).The bicycle derailleur (10) according to claim 19, wherein the at least one pulley includes a first pulley (64) having a first axis of rotation (R1) spaced from the first axis of rotation (A1) of the chain guide (16) and a second pulley (66) having a second axis of rotation (R2) spaced from the first axis of rotation (A1) of the chain guide (16).

Images