saddle for a bicycle

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a saddle for a bicycle, comprising a saddle shell with a seating area that transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area, and rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post. The rails are made of plastic, with a rod-shaped insert overmolded with the plastic being arranged in the rail at least in one area of ​​the rails for connecting to the clamp.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a bicycle saddle for a bicycle, which, within the meaning of the invention, also includes a bicycle with an electric auxiliary drive (e-bike, pedelec). The saddle comprises rails for attaching it to the clamp of a seat post. Background of the invention

[0002] Bicycle saddles are typically attached to a seatpost clamp using two rails. The rails allow the saddle's longitudinal position to be adjusted by sliding it within the clamp.

[0003] Structurally, a saddle typically comprises a saddle shell, which provides a seating surface that transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area. The saddle shell can, for example, be formed as an injection-molded plastic part. The saddle shell can further comprise padding, particularly made of a foam with a covering.

[0004] The rails are attached to the underside of the saddle shell. These are usually made of a different material than the saddle shell, especially metal.

[0005] If the rails are connected to the saddle shell by overmolding, for example, they cannot be separated from the saddle shell, making disposal of the saddle more difficult. Furthermore, overmolding the rails with the plastic material of the saddle shell is technically complex. In particular, it usually requires a rather complex tool with many moving parts. This increases the cost of manufacturing the saddle accordingly.

[0006] In contrast, published patent application EP 1 960 254 A1 proposes snapping a component comprising the rails under an undercut in the saddle shell. This simplifies the installation of the rails to the saddle shell, with an adhesive being applied during assembly to ensure a stable connection between the saddle shell and the rails.

[0007] Therefore, even with this saddle, the saddle shell cannot be removed from the rails without damaging them. In particular, if the saddle is damaged, it is not possible to simply replace the saddle shell and padding while retaining the rails.

[0008] Bicycle saddles are also known from the documents US 10 392 065 B2, CN 2 776 805 Y, US 2017 / 0 327 168 A1 and CN 1 05 564 541 A.

[0009] Document DE 10 2012 005 574 B4 shows a bicycle saddle with a saddle frame comprising a connecting element made of carbon fiber. Document DE 10 2004 040 679 A1 shows a bicycle saddle with a frame formed integrally with the saddle shell. Document DE 20 2006 009 064 U1 shows a bicycle saddle with a frame having a flat contact surface. Object of the invention

[0010] The invention is based on the object of providing a saddle for a bicycle with plastic rails, which is robust and / or easy to manufacture. Summary of the invention

[0011] The object of the invention is already achieved by a saddle for a bicycle and by a method for producing a saddle according to one of the independent claims.

[0012] Preferred embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subject matter of the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0013] The disclosure relates to a saddle for a bicycle. The saddle comprises a saddle shell with a seating area that transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area.

[0014] The saddle shell can, in particular, be formed from an injection-molded plastic part. Alternatively, the saddle shell can also be formed from a laminated composite material, such as a carbon fiber laminate.

[0015] The saddle shell can be padded, especially with foam padding. The padding can be glued or sprayed onto the saddle shell. Depending on the design, padding may also be unnecessary. Especially with the lightest possible racing bike saddles, the saddle shell itself usually forms the contact surface on which the rider sits.

[0016] The saddle also includes rails for connecting the saddle to the seat post clamp. The rails are detachable from the saddle shell.

[0017] The rails are connected to each other at the nose of the saddle and at the rear end of the seating area. "Front" and "back" as well as "top" and "bottom" refer to the saddle's intended mounting position.

[0018] The rails can be designed, in particular, as part of a rail module comprising a front and a rear connecting piece. The connecting pieces can, in particular, be designed as a cross brace that connects the two rails to each other.

[0019] According to the disclosure, the rails, in particular the rail module, can be inserted into a rear receptacle of the saddle shell and can be locked into a front receptacle of the saddle shell by pivoting.

[0020] The saddle shell thus comprises two receptacles. A rear receptacle is designed such that the rails, in particular the rail module, can be inserted into the receptacle, preferably by a horizontal movement, whereas a front receptacle connects the saddle shell and rails by a locking mechanism. In particular, the rail module can have a locking lug at the front that locks into a recess in the saddle shell.

[0021] This makes it easy to connect the saddle shell and rails together.

[0022] Preferably, the locking mechanism is designed so that it can be released without tools. The locking lug and recess are thus designed so that manual release of the locking mechanism is easy.

[0023] The final fixation of the saddle shell and rails to each other, however, is preferably provided by an additional component.

[0024] In particular, according to one embodiment, it is provided that the rails, in particular the rail module, are screwed to the saddle shell at the front and rear mounts.

[0025] In particular, it is provided that a screw between the rails is guided through a connecting piece of the rail module into a plateau at the tip of the saddle nose, where the screw locks.

[0026] Two screws are preferably provided at the rear, which are arranged in particular to the right and left of the rear mount. The screws are preferably inserted essentially vertically from below.

[0027] The removable rail module makes the saddle easier to recycle. Furthermore, the saddle shell, for example, can be easily replaced if it becomes damaged or worn.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment, the rear receptacle is designed as a through hole in a wall extending downwards at the rear.

[0029] At the rear, below the seat, there is a vertically extending wall which has a through hole into which the rails, in particular the rail module, can be inserted.

[0030] A component of the rail module, in particular a retractable tab, can thus protrude through the through-hole and thus, for example, accommodate a logo that is visible from the outside. The tab can also be used to mount an accessory.

[0031] Such a through hole can also be easily manufactured using injection molding.

[0032] The through hole is preferably elongated, in particular elongated rounded, and is located between the rails.

[0033] The rails preferably diverge at the rear of the seat. This allows for a wider rear transition area. Two rear screws for attaching the rail module are preferably located in front of the through hole and simultaneously to the left and right of it.

[0034] The front receptacle is preferably designed as a channel which extends in a plateau of the saddle shell located under the saddle nose from the tip of the nose, in particular horizontally through the plateau.

[0035] "Horizontal" and "vertical" are defined by the intended attachment of the saddle to a bicycle. The horizontal plane is defined, in particular, by a plane in which a straight section of the two rails lies, which serves as the connection to the seat post clamp.

[0036] The channel provides the recess into which the locking lug of the saddle module snaps. Designing the recess as a channel is simple from a manufacturing perspective.

[0037] Furthermore, as provided in a further development, the channel can be used to insert an insert which serves as a counter-holder for the front screw by means of which the rail module is fastened.

[0038] For this purpose, the channel can be designed in steps to form a stop for the insert.

[0039] The rails are preferably formed as an injection-molded plastic part together with the front and rear connecting pieces and the tab.

[0040] For reinforcement, the rails according to the invention comprise a rod-shaped insert. The rod-shaped insert can be inserted into the plastic injection mold during production. The rod-shaped insert preferably extends from the front to the rear connecting piece.

[0041] The rod-shaped insert can protrude from the injection-molded part at its ends. The protrusion of the end pieces can be arranged, particularly at the rear connecting piece, in a recess in the rail module.

[0042] At the front, the ends of the rod-shaped insert can protrude from the front end of the front connecting piece. These can serve as an alternative or in addition to a locking lug for locking the front connecting piece to the front mount of the saddle shell.

[0043] The rod-shaped insert can be designed as a metal rod or as a metal tube which is bent according to the contour of the rails.

[0044] Furthermore, the rod-shaped insert can also consist of a fiber composite material, in particular a laminate with carbon fibers.

[0045] According to a further embodiment, the rod-shaped insert is made of plastic, in particular of a different plastic than the rails. In particular, the rod-shaped insert can be made of a harder plastic than the rails, a plastic with higher notched impact strength and / or with higher elongation at break.

[0046] According to a further embodiment, the rod-shaped insert can also be omitted. In particular, according to a further embodiment, the rail module is designed as an injection-molded part made of a different plastic than the saddle shell.

[0047] Here again, the two-part design of the rail module and saddle shell is an advantage.

[0048] In particular, when using a different plastic material than for the saddle shell, the rod-shaped insert in the rail can be omitted. To provide the necessary strength for the rails, which consist entirely of plastic, this embodiment of the invention can use a fiber-reinforced injection-molded plastic, for example, a raw material made of a thermoplastic to which glass and / or carbon fibers are added.

[0049] In a further development, interlocking teeth are arranged on the rear mount between the saddle shell and the rails. In particular, the saddle shell can comprise downwardly projecting teeth, each of which engages a recess in the rail module, particularly the rear connecting piece. The teeth can facilitate pivoting. At the same time, the teeth can absorb transverse forces.

[0050] The teeth may have an upper surface that slopes backward, at least in sections. This facilitates pivoting.

[0051] The teeth are preferably arranged offset to the right and left sides of the through hole of the rear mount.

[0052] The teeth can serve to center the rail module during insertion. In particular, the teeth can have inclined and / or curved inner walls, which, in conjunction with the recesses, center the rail module during insertion.

[0053] In a further development, a screw engages in each of the teeth to connect the rails, in particular the rail module, with the saddle shell.

[0054] For this purpose, the rear connecting piece in particular can have through holes for the screws at its corners.

[0055] Due to the teeth, the saddle shell is thicker in this area, so that the vertical insertion of sufficiently long screws is possible.

[0056] According to another aspect, the disclosure relates to a saddle for a bicycle.

[0057] This may in particular include all of the features described above.

[0058] The saddle comprises in particular a saddle shell with a seat area which transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area, as well as rails which are connected to one another at the saddle nose and at a rear end of the seat area.

[0059] The rails are part of a rail module and are removable from the saddle shell.

[0060] According to the disclosure, the saddle shell comprises a front receptacle which serves to attach the rails, in particular the rail module, wherein an elastic insert is arranged between the front receptacle and the rails.

[0061] In particular, it is provided that an elastic insert is located between a front connecting piece of the rail module and a downwardly projecting plateau of the saddle shell. The insert runs, in particular, transversely to the rails. In particular, the elastic insert is vertically aligned relative to the intended installation position.

[0062] The elastic insert can be used to easily provide cushioning properties.

[0063] Furthermore, the elastic insert can compensate for shape tolerances of the saddle shell and / or rail module.

[0064] This particularly applies to shrinkage during plastic injection molding, which depends, among other things, on the specific plastic. Using the elastic insert makes it easier to use different materials for the saddle shell and / or rail module with just one tool.

[0065] Preferably, the rail module is latched to the front mount as described above and fixed by means of a screw.

[0066] The screw is thus guided through the elastic insert.

[0067] Because it is easy to remove by loosening the screw and locking it in place, the elastic insert can be easily replaced.

[0068] For example, the user can choose an elastic insert of different hardness depending on their body weight and easily replace it themselves.

[0069] The elastic insert can have a wall thickness of 1 to 10 mm, preferably 2 to 7 mm. The wall thickness corresponds to the width of the gap in which the insert is arranged.

[0070] The insert sits in particular in a gap between the plateau and the front surface of the front connecting piece of the rail module.

[0071] This gap preferably runs obliquely to the vertical, in particular at an angle of 0° to 60° or of 30 to 60°.

[0072] Such an inclined connection area can make it easier, in particular, to snap the rail module into place.

[0073] According to a further aspect, the disclosure relates to a saddle for a bicycle, which may also include all of the features described above.

[0074] The saddle comprises a saddle shell with a seating area that transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area, as well as rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post, whereby the rails are connected to each other at the front and rear and are removable from the saddle shell.

[0075] In particular, the rails, as described above, are part of a rail module.

[0076] According to the disclosure, the saddle shell comprises a channel extending horizontally through the saddle nose. An insert is inserted into the channel, into which a screw engages from behind to secure the rails, in particular the rail module.

[0077] The tip of the nose of the saddle shell includes in particular a downwardly projecting plateau through which the channel extends horizontally.

[0078] The channel preferably comprises a step which is designed as a stop for the insert.

[0079] The insert serves as a counter bearing for the screw.

[0080] The insert can in particular be designed as a plastic injection-molded part.

[0081] This type of construction allows for particularly simple production of the saddle shell.

[0082] In particular, injection molding eliminates the need for inward-moving sliders.

[0083] The inserted insert should preferably be flush with the saddle nose; in particular, the insert can follow the slope of the front wall of the saddle shell. This wall preferably tapers back below the saddle's tip.

[0084] In a further development, the channel simultaneously forms a recess in which the rails lock, in particular as part of the rail module.

[0085] In particular, the front connecting piece of the rail module can be locked into place on the opposite side of the insert and then finally fixed in place by means of a screw that engages in the insert.

[0086] The invention relates to a saddle for a bicycle, in particular it can be designed as described above.

[0087] The saddle comprises a saddle shell with a seating area that transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area, as well as rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post.

[0088] According to the invention, the rails are made of plastic, wherein at least in one region of the rails for connection to the clamp, a rod-shaped insert is arranged in the rail, which is overmolded with the plastic.

[0089] The area for connecting to the clamp is designed as a straight section of the rail.

[0090] In particular, the insert extends over the entire length of the rail and is overmolded with plastic over the entire length of the rail.

[0091] The overmolded insert allows for a wider range of materials for the saddle frame. In particular, plastics with comparatively low impact strength can be used.

[0092] Furthermore, the plastic protects the insert from the weather, especially from moisture and UV light.

[0093] The insert therefore does not need to be coated or made of a non-rusting material.

[0094] The rails with the insert are preferably part of the previously rail mode and can run, including rod, in particular from a front connector to a rear connector.

[0095] The rod-shaped insert can, for example, have a circular or oval cross-section.

[0096] The invention further relates to a method for producing a saddle.

[0097] In particular, the invention relates to a method for producing a saddle having one or more of the features described above.

[0098] Rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post are made of plastic using an injection molding process.

[0099] According to the invention, a rod-shaped insert is provided, each of which is overmolded with a rail.

[0100] According to a further development of the invention, at least one spacer is attached to the rod-shaped insert before overmolding.

[0101] The spacer positions the rod-shaped insert in the injection mold. The spacer preferably rests on at least two, particularly three, points in the mold.

[0102] This eliminates the need for tool-side engagement elements for positioning the rod-shaped insert.

[0103] Because the spacer is overmolded with plastic, the rod-shaped insert is also protected from the weather, especially moisture, in the area of ​​the spacer.

[0104] In a further development of the invention, at least one spacer is clipped onto the rod-shaped insert. The spacer is thus designed as a clip and is therefore easy to attach.

[0105] In particular, a spacer with two resilient arms and a nose arranged opposite the arms is provided. The spacer thus rests against the mold at at least three points. The rod-shaped insert is thus positioned in the closed mold in a form-fitting manner transversely to its main direction of extension.

[0106] The disclosure of this application can be defined by a saddle and by a method for producing a saddle according to one of the following elements: 1. Saddle for a bicycle, comprising a saddle shell with a seating area which transitions into a saddle nose via a transition area, and rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post, whereby the rails are connected to each other at the saddle nose and at a rear end of the seat area, and the rails are removable from the saddle shell, characterized in that the rails can be inserted into a rear receptacle of the saddle shell, wherein the rails are pivoted in a front receptacle the saddle shell can be locked. 2. Saddle according to the preceding element, characterized in that the rails on the front and rear supports are screwed to the saddle shell. 3. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the locking mechanism can be released without tools. 4. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the rails are part of a rail module which comprises a rear connecting piece which can be inserted into the rear receptacle and a front connecting piece which can be locked into the front receptacle. 5. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the rear receptacle is designed as a through hole in a wall extending downwards at the rear. 6. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the front receptacle is designed as a channel which extends in a plateau located under the saddle nose horizontally through the plateau from the tip of the nose. 7. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the rear receptacle comprises a through hole in the saddle shell into which a tab connected to the rails can be inserted. 8. Saddle according to the preceding element, characterized in that the rails together with the tab are formed as a plastic injection-molded part. 9. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the rails comprise a rod-shaped insert for reinforcement. 10. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that interlocking teeth are arranged on the rear receptacle between the saddle shell and the rails. 11. Saddle according to the preceding element, characterized in that a screw engages each of the teeth. 12. Saddle for a bicycle, in particular according to one of the preceding elements, comprising a saddle shell with a seating area which merges into a saddle nose via a transition area, and rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post, whereby the rails are connected to each other at the saddle nose and at a rear end of the seat area, and the rails are removable from the saddle shell, characterized in that the saddle shell has a front receptacle to which the rails of the saddle shell are connected, an elastic insert being arranged between the front receptacle and the rails. 13. Saddle according to the preceding element, characterized in that the elastic insert is arranged between a connecting piece of the rail module and a downwardly projecting plateau of the saddle shell. 14. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that the elastic insert is arranged transversely to the rails, in particular that the elastic insert is oriented vertically. 15. Saddle according to one of the preceding elements, characterized in that a screw for connecting the rails to the saddle shell is guided through the elastic insert. 16. Saddle for a bicycle, in particular according to one of the preceding elements, comprising a saddle shell with a seating area which merges into a saddle nose via a transition area, and rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post, whereby the rails are connected to each other at the saddle nose and at a rear end of the seat area, and the rails are removable from the saddle shell, characterized in that the saddle shell comprises a channel extending horizontally through the saddle nose, into which an insert is inserted, into which a screw engages from behind to fix the rails. 17. Saddle for a bicycle, in particular according to one of the preceding elements, comprising a saddle shell with a seating area which merges into a saddle nose via a transition area, and rails for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post, characterized in that the rails are made of plastic, wherein at least in one area of ​​the rails for connecting to The clamping device is arranged in the rail with a rod-shaped insert which is overmolded with plastic. 18. Saddle according to the preceding element, characterized in that the rod-shaped insert extends over the entire length of the rail and is overmolded with the plastic over the entire length of the rail. 19. Saddle according to the preceding element, characterized in that the rails are locked in the channel. 20. A method for producing a saddle, in particular a saddle according to one of the preceding elements, wherein rails made of plastic for connecting the saddle to the clamp of a seat post are produced by means of an injection molding process, characterized in that a rod-shaped insert is provided, which is each encapsulated with a rail. 21. Method according to the preceding element, characterized in that at least one spacer is attached to the rod-shaped insert before the overmolding. 22. Method according to the preceding element, characterized in that the at least one spacer is clipped onto the rod-shaped insert. 23. A method according to any one of the preceding elements, characterized in that a spacer is provided with two resilient arms and a nose arranged opposite the arms. Brief description of the drawings

[0107] The subject matter of the invention will be explained below with reference to the drawings Fig. 1 to Fig. 24 will be explained using an example. Fig. 1 is a bottom plan view of a saddle according to the invention. Fig. 2 is a top view of the bottom. Fig. 3 is a side view. Fig. 4 is a perspective detail view of the rear connection area seen from below. Fig. 5 is a perspective detail of the front connection area. Fig. Figure 6 is a view of the front connection area with the elastic insert. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the saddle shell. Fig. 8 is a vertical central longitudinal section of the saddle shell. Fig. 9 is a horizontal section of the saddle shell. Fig. 10 is a perspective detail of the lower rear area of ​​the saddle shell. Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 are perspective views of the insert, which serves as a counter bearing for the front screw. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the rail module. Fig. 14 is a detailed view of the rail module in the area of ​​the front connecting piece. Fig. 15 is a detailed view of the nose of the saddle shell. Fig. 16 is a detailed view of the rail module in the area of ​​the rear connecting piece. Fig. Figure 17 shows a detailed view of the area of ​​the rear seat mount of the saddle shell. Fig. 18 shows the rail module in comparison with the injected rod-shaped insert. Referring to Fig. 19 to Fig. 21 the assembly of the saddle according to the invention will be explained in more detail. Referring to Fig. 22 to Fig. 24 an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a bicycle saddle will be explained. Detailed description of the drawings

[0108] Fig. 1 shows a top view of an embodiment of a saddle 10 according to the invention.

[0109] The saddle 10 comprises a seat surface 11, which transitions into a narrower saddle nose 13 via a transition area 12.

[0110] In this embodiment, the saddle 10 includes a central relief channel 14. Sections of the relief channel 14 are provided with a central opening 15. The saddle 10 is divided longitudinally into two halves by the relief channel 14. In particular, the seat surface 11 is divided into two wings 16.

[0111] In this embodiment, the saddle 10 is provided with padding 17. The padding 17 extends over each half of the saddle 10, adjacent to the relief channel 14.

[0112] The saddle shell 100 can be seen in the area of ​​the relief channel 14, since the relief channel 14 is not provided with any padding.

[0113] The padding 17 preferably comprises a foam and can, for example, be glued to the saddle shell 100 or sprayed onto the saddle shell 100.

[0114] Fig. 2 shows the saddle 10 in a plan view of the underside.

[0115] In this view it can be seen that the saddle shell 100 is connected to a rail module 200 on the underside of the saddle 10.

[0116] The rail module 200 comprises the rails 200a and 200b, which serve to connect the saddle 10 to the clamp of the seat post (not shown).

[0117] The rails 200a, 200b are connected to each other in the front area via a front connecting piece 201.

[0118] The front connecting piece 201 is connected to the saddle nose 13, with a downwardly projecting plateau 109 of the saddle shell 100.

[0119] At the rear, the rails 200a, 200b are connected to each other via a rear connecting piece 202. The rear connecting piece 202 is connected to the saddle shell 100 in the rear area of ​​the seat surface 11.

[0120] After a central section in which the rails 200a, 200b run parallel, the rails 200a, 200b diverge in the rear region of the seat surface 11 toward the rear connecting piece 202. This provides a wider and more stable connection at the rear.

[0121] Fig. Figure 3 is a side view of the saddle 10. This illustration shows that the wings 16 slope downwards toward the outer sides. The wings 16 are flexible and spring back when subjected to stress.

[0122] The rails 200a comprise a rectilinear, substantially horizontally extending center section, from which the rails 200a each rise upward toward the saddle nose 13 and toward the rear area of ​​the seat surface 11. The central rectilinear section serves as a connection area for the clamping.

[0123] The horizontal position of the saddle 10 is defined by the straight central section of the rails 200a. However, it is understood that this straight central section is not always horizontally aligned when the saddle 10 is installed. Rather, the clamping mechanism can generally be used to adjust not only the longitudinal position of the saddle 10, but also its inclination.

[0124] Fig. 4 is a detailed view of the saddle in the rear connection area.

[0125] In the rear connection area, the rail module 200 includes the rear connecting piece 202. The rear connecting piece 202 merges into the rails 200a, 200b in a bow-like manner.

[0126] In the area of ​​the transition to the rails 200a, 200b, the rear connecting piece 202 is connected to the saddle shell 100 on the right and left via a screw 20 each. The screws 20 are inserted vertically from below.

[0127] Fig. 5 is a detailed view of the front connection area.

[0128] The front connecting piece 201 of the rail module 200 forms a cross brace which merges into the rails 200a, 200b.

[0129] The front connecting piece 201 is attached to the nose 103 of the saddle shell 100 via the screw 21.

[0130] For this purpose, a screw 21 is provided below, which engages from the rear, essentially horizontally between the rails 200a, 200b, into a plateau 109 of the nose 103. An insert 30 serves as a counterholder for the screw 21, which is inserted from the front into a channel of the plateau 109 of the nose 103.

[0131] In the representation according to Fig. 6 now also shows the elastic insert 40, which is located between the front connecting piece 201 and the plateau 109.

[0132] The elastic insert 40 sits in a gap which is preferably oriented diagonally downwards towards the front.

[0133] Variable damping properties can be provided via the replaceable elastic insert 40.

[0134] The screw 21 is guided through a through hole of the elastic insert 40 and secured in the insert 40.

[0135] The locking lug (206) and / or the end pieces of the rods (210) can also each be guided through a through hole of the elastic insert 40.

[0136] After loosening the screw 21 (as well as the screws at the rear), the rail module 200 can be pivoted away from the saddle shell with the connecting piece in front and the elastic insert 40 can be removed.

[0137] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the saddle shell 100.

[0138] In this embodiment, the saddle shell is designed as a plastic injection-molded part and, corresponding to the contour of the saddle, comprises a seating surface 101 which transitions into a narrower nose 103 via a transition area 102.

[0139] Furthermore, the saddle shell comprises the relief channel 104, which is partially formed as an opening 115.

[0140] The wings 106, which may be covered with padding, may, as shown in this embodiment, include openings 107, which serve to allow the ischial tuberosities to sink in. In this embodiment, two different possible embodiments for such an opening 107 are compared.

[0141] On one side, the opening 107 is continuous. On the other side, several openings 107 are provided. Due to the remaining webs, the stiffness of the saddle is greater in the area of ​​the openings 107.

[0142] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the saddle shell comprises two channels 108 on the nose 103, which extend diagonally from the top to the bottom. The channels 108 form recesses on the underside into which the end pieces of a rod engage to stiffen the rails (see also Fig. 15).

[0143] The design as a channel 108 facilitates production, since a slide for forming the channel 108 can move from the outside into the injection mold.

[0144] Fig. Figure 8 is a central longitudinal section of the saddle shell 100. The plateau 109, through which a channel 105 with a step runs, is clearly visible. The channel 105 is essentially horizontal and serves to accommodate the insert, which forms the counterbearing for the front screw.

[0145] Teeth 110 are provided on the rear mount, which, when mounted, engage in a corresponding recess of the rail module.

[0146] Fig. Figure 9 is a horizontal section of the saddle shell, in which it can now be clearly seen that the channels 108 extend obliquely from the top to the bottom of the saddle shell.

[0147] Fig. Figure 10 is a detailed view of the saddle shell in the area of ​​the rear mount. The rear mount 117 is designed as a through hole.

[0148] Furthermore, the teeth 110 are provided, offset forward to the right and left of the rear receptacle 117.

[0149] In this embodiment, the teeth 110 are essentially polygonal and comprise a rear wall 113 which slopes downwards.

[0150] The front wall 112 is steeper than the rear wall 113. This makes it easier to insert the rail module.

[0151] The upper side of the teeth 110 is provided with a thread 111. The thread 111 does not need to be present in the saddle shell from the start. Rather, the thread can also be formed by a self-tapping screw. According to another embodiment, a blind hole is provided into which the screw cuts.

[0152] The inner side wall 114 of the teeth 110 can be curved. Furthermore, the inner side walls 114 of the teeth 110 converge toward each other, at least in sections, toward the rear of the saddle. This centers the rail module when inserted into the receptacle 117.

[0153] Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 are perspective views of the insert 30, which is designed as a counter bearing for the front screw.

[0154] The insert 30 comprises a step 32 which rests against a step of the channel into which the insert is inserted.

[0155] The front face 31 runs diagonally downwards.

[0156] On the opposite side, the insert 30 includes a thread 34 in its rear wall 33, into which the front screw sits when mounted. This thread can also be provided by a self-tapping screw or by a hole into which the screw is inserted.

[0157] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the rail module 200.

[0158] In this embodiment, the rail module 200 is designed as an injection-molded component, wherein a rod 210, for example made of metal, is injected into each of the rails 200a, 200b for reinforcement.

[0159] The rod 210 protrudes from the front wall of the front connecting piece 201 in the area of ​​the front connecting piece 201.

[0160] In the area of ​​the rear connecting piece 202, the end pieces of the rods 210 each sit in a recess 205.

[0161] This makes production easier during injection molding, as the rods can be grasped at the protruding ends.

[0162] Otherwise, the rods 210 in the area of ​​the rails 200a, 200b are completely overmolded with plastic and thus protected from weather and UV light.

[0163] The rear connecting area 202 is further provided with recesses 203 which are complementary to the teeth of the saddle shell.

[0164] In each of the recesses 203, a through hole 204 is provided through which the screws in the rear connection area are guided.

[0165] Fig. 14 is a detailed view of the front connection area of ​​the rail module.

[0166] The locking lug 206 protrudes from the front connecting piece 201 at the front.

[0167] In this embodiment, the locking lug 206 has a rectangular end face. In side view, the locking lug 206 is designed as a parallelogram with an interior angle other than 90°.

[0168] The inclination of the locking lug 206 corresponds to the inclination of the front surface of the front connecting piece 201.

[0169] To the right and left of the locking lug 206, the end pieces of the rods 210 protrude from the front connecting piece 201.

[0170] The locking lug 206 includes a through hole 207 for the front screw.

[0171] In cooperation with the Fig. 15 in a detailed view of the front connection area of ​​the saddle shell, the front locking lug 206 locks into the channel 105 of the plateau 109.

[0172] The end pieces of the rods 210 can also lock into the channels 108.

[0173] The rear wall 116 of the plateau runs obliquely to the vertical, in particular at an angle of 30 to 60°.

[0174] Fig. Figure 16 is a detailed view of the rear connection area of ​​the rail module.

[0175] Starting from a contact surface 211 of the rear connecting piece 202, a tab 209 extends obliquely upwards and backwards over the rear connecting piece. The tab 209 can, in particular, extend obliquely at an angle of 5 to 40°, preferably 10 to 30°, to the horizontal.

[0176] The tab 209 otherwise runs between the recesses 203 for the teeth of the saddle shell. The tab can have a maximum thickness of 1 to 10 mm, preferably 3 to 7 mm, and / or a width b of 10 to 80 mm, preferably 30 to 50 mm.

[0177] In this embodiment, the rear visible surface of the tab 209 is used to attach a brand logo.

[0178] In cooperation in the Fig. 17, the tab 209 is pushed backwards into the rear receptacle 117 designed as a through hole.

[0179] To form the rear receptacle 117, a rear wall 118 extends downwards at the rear end of the seat surface of the saddle shell.

[0180] When inserted, the rear connecting piece 202 rests with the contact surface 211 at the bottom of the rear wall 118.

[0181] When inserted, the end face of the tab 209 preferably runs flush with the adjacent rear wall 118.

[0182] In the representation according to Fig. 18, a rod 210 is positioned opposite the rail module.

[0183] The rod 210 is bent according to the contour of the rails of the rail module 200 and is overmolded by means of plastic from the rest of the rail module.

[0184] Referring to Fig. 19 to Fig. 21 the connection of the rail module 200 with the saddle shell 100 will be explained in more detail.

[0185] As in Fig. 19, the rail module is first pushed backwards with the tab first into the rear receptacle 117 of the saddle shell.

[0186] The rail module 200 is initially positioned at an angle to the saddle shell 100, in particular at an angle tilted by 5 to 30° compared to the assembled state.

[0187] As then in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the rail module is pivoted toward the saddle nose. The locking lug 206 engages in the channel located in the plateau 109.

[0188] The rail module 200 and the saddle shell 100 are now connected to each other in such a way that the rail module 200 cannot detach from the saddle shell 100. However, the locking mechanism can be released again by pulling on the rail module 200.

[0189] To achieve a final stable connection, as described in Fig. 21, two screws 20 are inserted vertically in the rear connection area. Another screw 21 is inserted between the rails, which firmly connects the front connecting piece 201 to the platform 109.

[0190] Fig. 22 shows a perspective view of a spacer 220 as can be used to manufacture a bicycle saddle.

[0191] The spacer 220 is designed as a plastic clip with two spring-loaded arms 221. The arms expand when the spacer 220 is clipped onto the rod-shaped insert. The inner wall of the spacer 220 then rests against the insert.

[0192] The ends of the arms 221 are thickened in cross-section and include a contact surface that can be adapted to the contour of the rail.

[0193] Furthermore, a nose 222 extends outwardly opposite the arms 221, which also serves for positioning in the injection mold. The contact surface of the nose 222 is preferably adapted to the contour of the rail.

[0194] The spacer 220 extends only over a portion of the length of the rod-shaped insert. In particular, the spacer can have a length of 1 to 30 mm, preferably 2 to 20 mm. This ensures that the spacer 220 is completely overmolded in the mold.

[0195] Several spaced-apart spacers can also be used per insert.

[0196] Fig. Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the spacers overmolded with the rails 200a, 200b. The contact surfaces of the arms 221 and the nose 222 in the mold are aligned with the outer surfaces of the rails 200a, 200b.

[0197] Fig.Figure 24 is a cross-section through a rail 200a in the area of ​​the spacer 220. The spacer 220 is clipped onto the rod-shaped insert 210 and overmolded with the plastic material of the rail 200a. Only the thickened ends of the arms 221 and the nose 222 extend from the insert 210 to the outside of the rail 200a. The insert 210 is completely embedded in the plastic by the spacer 210 and the plastic material of the rail 200a.

[0198] The process enables particularly simple production of a saddle with plastic rails and a rod-shaped insert to reinforce the rails.

[0199] The invention also made it possible to provide a saddle that is easy to manufacture and whose rails can be easily assembled and disassembled. Furthermore, an optional, replaceable damping system can be easily provided. List of reference symbols 10 Saddle 11 Seat 12 Transition area 13 Saddle nose 14 relief channel 15 Opening 16 wings 17 Upholstery 30 insert for screw 31 Frontal surface 32 level 33 rear wall 34 threads 40 elastic insert 100 saddle shell 101 Seat 102 Transition area 103 Nose 104 relief channel 105 Opening 106 wings 107 Opening for ischial tuberosity 108 channel (rails) 109 Plateau 110 teeth 111 threads 112 front wall 113 rear wall 114 inner side wall 115 Opening in the relief channel of the saddle shell 116 Rear wall plateau 117 rear mount 118 Rear wall 200 rail modules 200a,200b rail 201 front connecting piece 202 rear connecting piece 203 Recess for locking tooth 204 through hole 205 Recess (for end piece rod) 206 locking lug 207 Through hole 209 tab 210 bar 211 contact surface 220 spacers / clips 221 Arm 222 Nose

Claims

[1] Saddle (10) for a bicycle, comprising a saddle shell (100) with a seating area which transitions via a transition area (102) into a saddle nose (13), and rails (200a, 200b) for connecting the saddle (13) to the clamp of a seat post, characterized by , that the rails (200a, 200b) are made of plastic, wherein at least in one area of ​​the rails (200a, 200b) a rod-shaped insert (210) is arranged in the rail (200a, 200b) for connection with the clamping, which is overmolded with the plastic. [2] Saddle (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the rod-shaped insert (210) extends over the entire length of the rail (200a, 200b) and is overmolded with the plastic over the entire length of the rail (200a, 200b). [3] Saddle (10) according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that the rails (200a, 200b) are locked into the channel (108). [4] Saddle (10) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the rod-shaped insert (210) is made of metal, plastic or a fiber composite material. [5] Saddle (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the rod-shaped insert (210) is designed as a tube. [6] Saddle (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one spacer (220) is clipped onto the rod-shaped insert (210), which is overmolded with the plastic material of the rail (200a, 200b). [7] Method for manufacturing a saddle (10), in particular a saddle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein rails (200a, 200b) made of plastic for connecting the saddle (10) to the clamp of a seat post are manufactured by means of an injection molding process, characterized by, that a rod-shaped insert (210) is provided, which is each overmolded with a rail (200a, 200b). [8] Method according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that at least one spacer (220) is attached to the rod-shaped insert (210) before overmolding. [9] Method according to the preceding claim, characterized by , that at least one spacer (220) is clipped onto the rod-shaped insert (210). [10] Method according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a spacer (220) is provided with two spring-loaded arms (221) and a nose (222) arranged opposite the arms (221).

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