Actuating device for a muscle-powered vehicle

Abstract

An actuating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The actuating device comprises a base, a positioning ratchet, a positioning element, a first release pawl element, a second release pawl element, and a first release element. The positioning element includes a contact point and a positioning pawl that moves between a holding position and a release position. The positioning pawl engages with the positioning ratchet to selectively fix predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet. The positioning pawl disengages from the positioning ratchet to allow the positioning ratchet to move in a release direction when the positioning pawl is in the release position. The first release pawl contact the contact point to disengage the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet.The second release pawl engages the contact element to disengage the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet. The first release element includes a disengagement section arranged to disengage both the first and second release pawl elements from the positioning element.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to an actuating device provided for a muscle-powered vehicle. Background information

[0002] Muscle-powered vehicles, such as bicycles, are typically equipped with one or more actuating devices for operating one or more components. In the case of a bicycle, examples of some of these components include a gear-shifting device (e.g., a derailleur or internal gear hub), suspension, and a seat post. An actuating device is usually provided at one location (e.g., on the handlebars) on a muscle-powered vehicle so that a rider can easily operate it. The actuating device is often connected to the component, for example, by a Bowden cable. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of an actuating device for a muscle-powered vehicle, or human-driven vehicle. The term "muscle-powered vehicle," as used herein, refers to a vehicle that can be propelled at least by muscle power, or human-driven power, but does not include a vehicle that uses only a propulsion force other than muscle power. In particular, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as its propulsion force is not included in the definition of a muscle-powered vehicle. The muscle-powered vehicle is generally understood to be a compact, lightweight vehicle that sometimes does not require a driver's license to operate on a public road. The number of wheels on the muscle-powered vehicle is not limited.The term "muscle-powered vehicle" includes, for example, a unicycle and a vehicle with three or more wheels. It also includes various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a racing bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, and a recumbent bike, as well as an electric assisted bicycle (e-bike).

[0004] In view of the state of the art and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, an actuating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The actuating device generally comprises a base, a positioning ratchet, a positioning element, a first release pawl element, a second release pawl element, and a first release element. The positioning ratchet is movably supported or mounted with respect to the base between a plurality of predetermined positions. The positioning ratchet includes a plurality of positioning ratchet teeth. The positioning element includes a contact part and a positioning pawl, which is movably supported with respect to the base between a holding position and a release position.The positioning pawl engages with the positioning ratchet to selectively fix predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet relative to the base when the positioning pawl is in the holding position. The positioning pawl disengages from the positioning ratchet to allow the positioning ratchet to move relative to the base in a release direction when the positioning pawl is in the release position. The first release pawl element is movably arranged relative to the base between a first engagement state and a first disengagement state. The first release pawl element engages with the contact part of the positioning element to disengage the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet in a state where the first release pawl element is in the first engagement state.The first release pawl is disengaged from the contact part of the positioning element to allow the positioning pawl to engage with the positioning ratchet in a state where the first release pawl is in its first disengaged state. The second release pawl differs from the first. The second release pawl is movable relative to the base between a second engaged state and a second disengaged state. The second release pawl engages with the contact part of the positioning element to disengage the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet in a state where the second release pawl is in its second engaged state.The second release pawl element is disengaged from the contact part of the positioning element to allow the positioning pawl to engage with the positioning ratchet in a state where the second release pawl element is in its second disengaged state. The first release pawl element is in its first engaged state in a state where the second release pawl element is in its second disengaged state. The second release pawl element is in its second engaged state in a state where the first release pawl element is in its first disengaged state.The first release element includes a disengagement section arranged to disengage the first release pawl element and the second release pawl element from the positioning element after the positioning ratchet moves from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions during a release actuation.

[0005] With the actuating device according to the first aspect, it is possible to achieve a multi-stage release actuation in a single continuous release actuation.

[0006] In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the first aspect is arranged so that the second release latch element is movable independently of the first release latch element.

[0007] With the actuating device according to the second aspect, it is possible to provide the first release latching element and the second release latching element that reliably engage with the positioning element during a release actuation.

[0008] In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is arranged according to the first or second aspect such that the first release pawl member and the second release pawl member engage successively with the contact part of the positioning member in order to change several of the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet in a single continuous release actuation.

[0009] With the actuating device according to the third aspect, it is possible to achieve a multi-stage release actuation in a single continuous release actuation.

[0010] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is configured according to one of the first to third aspects such that the first release pawl member is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning member, and the second release pawl member is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning member.

[0011] With the actuating device according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to provide a compact actuating device.

[0012] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to one of the first to fourth aspects further comprises a second release element which is movably supported with respect to the base. The first release pawl element is pivotably mounted on the second release element about a release axis or release axis. The second release pawl element is pivotably mounted on the second release element about the release axis.

[0013] With the actuating device according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to provide a compact actuating device.

[0014] In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the fifth aspects further comprises a first preloading element mounted between the first release pawl member and the second release member, and a second preloading element mounted between the second release pawl member and the second release member. The first release pawl member is preloaded by the first preloading element in the direction of engagement with the positioning member. The second release pawl member is preloaded by the second preloading element in the direction of engagement with the positioning member.

[0015] With the actuating device according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to provide the first release latching element and the second release latching element, which reliably engage with the positioning element during a release actuation.

[0016] In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect is configured such that the first release pawl element includes a first release pawl arranged to engage with the contact part of the positioning element. The first release pawl is located a first distance from the release axis. The second release pawl element includes a second release pawl arranged to engage with the contact part of the positioning element. The second release pawl is located a second distance from the release axis, which differs from the first distance.

[0017] With the actuating device according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to provide the first release latching element and the second release latching element, which reliably engage with the positioning element during a release actuation.

[0018] In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is arranged according to the seventh aspect so that the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0019] With the actuating device according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to provide the first release latching element and the second release latching element, which reliably engage with the positioning element during a release actuation.

[0020] In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is configured according to the seventh or eighth aspect such that the contact part of the positioning element is located in a plane. The plane is perpendicular to an axial direction parallel to the release axis. The first release pawl is located in the plane. The second release pawl is located in the plane.

[0021] With the actuating device according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to provide the first release latching element and the second release latching element, which reliably engage with the positioning element during a release actuation.

[0022] In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the first release pawl member further comprises a first arm extending from the release axis to the first release pawl. The second release pawl member further comprises a second arm extending from the release axis to the second release pawl. The first arm is axially offset from the second arm.

[0023] The actuating device described in the tenth aspect ensures that the first release latch is actuated without interference from the second release latch. It also ensures that the second release latch is actuated without interference from the first release latch. This allows for the provision of a compact actuating device.

[0024] In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is arranged according to one of the first to tenth aspects such that the positioning element is pivotably mounted on the base about a positioning axis, and the releasing element is pivotably mounted on the base about the positioning axis.

[0025] With the actuating device according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to provide a compact actuating device.

[0026] In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is configured according to one of the first to eleventh aspects such that the plurality of predetermined positions includes a release end position, a receiving end position, and one or more intermediate positions between the release end position and the receiving end position. The disengagement section of the first release element covers the contact part of the positioning element in a state in which the positioning element is in the release end position.

[0027] With the actuating device according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to prevent the first release pawl element and the second release pawl element from engaging with the positioning element in a state in which the positioning ratchet is in the release end position, by covering the contact part of the positioning element with the first release element.

[0028] In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the twelfth aspect is configured so that the release section of the first release element is configured to keep the first release latch element away from the contact part of the positioning element by covering the contact part of the positioning element.

[0029] With the actuating device according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the first release pawl element and the second release pawl element from engaging with the positioning element in a state in which the positioning ratchet is in the release end position, by covering the contact part of the positioning element with the first release element.

[0030] In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is configured according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect such that the release section of the first release member is configured to keep the second release latch member away from the contact part of the positioning member by covering the contact part of the positioning member.

[0031] With the actuating device according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the first release pawl element and the second release pawl element from engaging with the positioning element in a state in which the positioning ratchet is in the release end position, by covering the contact part of the positioning element with the first release element.

[0032] In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device is arranged according to one of the first to fourteenth aspects so that the positioning member is biased in a first direction of rotation about the positioning axis with respect to the base.

[0033] With the actuating device according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to provide the first release latching element and the second release latching element, which reliably engage with the positioning element during a release actuation.

[0034] In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to one of the first to fifteenth aspects further comprises a pull pawl movably mounted with respect to the base between an engagement position and a non-engagement position. The pull pawl selectively engages with one of the plurality of positioning ratchet teeth during a pull actuation when the pull pawl is in the engagement position. The pull pawl is disengaged from the positioning ratchet to allow the positioning ratchet to move in the release direction with respect to the base when the pull pawl is in the non-engagement position. The first release pawl element is operatively coupled to the pull pawl by means of the first release element to move the pull pawl from the engagement position to the non-engagement position in a state in which the first release pawl element is in the first engagement state.

[0035] With the actuating device according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to reliably disengage the pull pawl from the positioning ratchet.

[0036] In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the sixteenth aspect is arranged so that the second release pawl member is operatively coupled to the pull pawl by the first release member in order to move the pull pawl from the engagement position to the non-engagement position in a state in which the second release pawl member is in the second engagement state.

[0037] With the actuating device according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to reliably disengage the pull pawl from the positioning ratchet.

[0038] In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the sixteenth aspect is arranged such that the first release member includes a first contact section which is arranged to touch the pull pawl in order to move the pull pawl from the engaged position to the non-engaged position.

[0039] With the actuating device according to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to reliably disengage the pull pawl from the positioning ratchet.

[0040] In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to one of the first to eighteenth aspects further comprises a cable receptacle provided on the positioning ratchet. The cable receptacle includes a cam that engages with the first release element.

[0041] With the actuating device according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to prevent the positioning ratchet from moving in relation to the base in a state in which the positioning ratchet is in the release end position.

[0042] In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the actuating device according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the cam is configured to maintain the first release element in a covering state in the release end position. The first release element covers the contact part of the positioning element in the covering state.

[0043] With the actuating device according to the twentieth aspect, it is possible to prevent the positioning ratchet from moving relative to the base in a state in which the positioning ratchet is in the release end position.

[0044] Other objectives, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed actuating device will also become apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the actuating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0045] Reference is now made to the attached drawings, which form part of this original revelation: Fig. Figure 1 is a top view of a section of a handlebar of a muscle-powered vehicle (e.g. a bicycle) equipped with an actuating device in accordance with an illustrative embodiment in which a first user-operated link (i.e. a release lever or release lever) and a second user-operated link (i.e. a pull lever) are rest positions. Fig. Figure 2 is a top view of the actuating device coupled to the steering rod, as shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows the release lever being moved in a first actuation direction from the rest position to a first actuated position in order to perform a cable release actuation. Fig. Figure 3 is a top view of the actuating device coupled to the steering rod, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows the release lever being moved in a second actuation direction from the rest position to a second actuated position to perform a cable release actuation. Fig. Figure 4 is a top view of the actuating device coupled to the steering rod, as shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2 to Fig. Figure 3 shows the pull lever being moved in the third direction from the rest position to an actuated position in order to perform a cable pull actuation. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the actuating device, which is located in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. Figure 4 shows the housing being removed to expose the internal parts of the actuating device. Fig. Figure 6 is a top view of selected internal parts of the actuating device, which are located in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4 to Fig. Figure 5 shows the release lever and the pull lever in their rest positions. Fig. 7 is a bottom view of the selected internal parts of the actuating device, which is in Fig. Figure 6 shows the release lever and the pull lever in their rest positions. Fig. Figure 8 is a side elevation view of the selected internal parts of the actuating device, which are located in the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows the release lever and the pull lever in their rest positions. Fig. Figure 9 is a perspective bottom view of the positioning mechanism of the actuating device, which is located in the Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. Figure 8 shows a positioning mechanism and the selected internal parts in relation to a pull actuation. Fig. 10 is another partial exploded view and enlarged perspective view of the internal parts of the actuating device, which are located in the Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. 9 is shown. Fig. Figure 11 is another partial exploded view of the selected internal parts of the actuating device, which is shown in Fig. 10 is shown. Fig. Figure 12 is a top view of the positioning mechanism and other selected internal parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the first release latch element and the second release latch element, which are shown in Fig. Figure 11 shows a positioning mechanism and selected internal parts in relation to a release actuation or release actuation and a pull actuation. Fig. Figure 13 is a first perspective top view of the selected internal parts of the actuating device, which is shown in Fig. Figure 12 shows the positioning mechanism and the selected internal parts in relation to a release actuation and a pull actuation. Fig. 14 is a second perspective top view of the positioning mechanism of the actuating device, which is located in the Fig. 12 and Fig. Figure 13 shows a positioning mechanism and the selected internal parts in relation to a release actuation and a pull actuation. Fig. Figure 15 is a perspective bottom view of the positioning mechanism of the actuating device with an enlarged perspective bottom view of the first release latch element and the second release latch element, which are shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. Figure 13 shows a positioning mechanism and the selected internal parts in relation to a release actuation and a pull actuation. Fig. Figure 16 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in the Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. Figure 15 shows the release lever in the rest position and the positioning pawl engaging with the positioning ratchet to set one of the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet. Fig. Figure 17 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in Fig. Figure 16 shows the release lever in the first actuation direction from the position of Fig. 16 was moved in the direction of an actuated position so that the first release pawl link engages with the positioning link to begin pivoting the positioning link away from the positioning ratchet, causing the positioning ratchet to begin rotating from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions. Fig. Figure 18 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in the Fig. 16 to Fig. Figure 17 shows the release lever moving further in the first actuation direction from the position of Fig. 17 was moved in the direction of the actuated position so that the first release latching element is released from the positioning element after a first release element has released the first release latching element from the positioning element. Fig. Figure 19 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. Figure 18 shows the release lever moving further in the first actuation direction from the position of Fig. 18 was moved in the direction of the actuated position so that the second release pawl link engages with the positioning link to begin pivoting the positioning ratchet away from the positioning ratchet, causing the positioning ratchet to begin rotating from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions. Fig. Figure 20 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18 to Fig. Figure 19 shows the release lever moving further in the first actuation direction from the position of Fig. 19 was moved in the direction of the actuated position so that the second release latching element is released from the positioning element after a first release element has released the second release latching element from the positioning element. Fig. Figure 21 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in Fig. Figure 20 shows in particular a cable receptacle coupled to the positioning ratchet, in which the first release latch element and the second release latch element are located. Fig. 20 are in the same position. Fig. Figure 22 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in Fig. Figure 21 shows the release lever being released so that the release lever has returned to its rest position. Fig. Figure 23 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20, Fig. 21 to Fig. Figure 22 shows the pull lever in a rest position so that the pull pawl is in an engagement position. Fig. Figure 24 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in Fig. Figure 23 shows the pull lever being moved in the third actuation direction from the rest position towards the actuated position so that the pull pawl engages with one of the ratchet teeth of the positioning ratchet to begin cable pull actuation. Fig. Figure 25 is a top view of the selected parts of the actuating device with an enlarged top view of the selected parts of the actuating device, which are shown in the Fig. 23 and Fig. Figure 24 shows the lever and pawl returning to their rest positions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the field of muscle-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the attached claims and their equivalents.

[0047] Initially referring to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. Figure 4 shows an actuating device 10 for a muscle-powered vehicle V. In particular, a section of a handlebar H of the muscle-powered vehicle V is shown, which is equipped with the actuating device 10 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Here, the muscle-powered vehicle V is a bicycle, and the actuating device 10 is a bicycle actuating device 10, which is specifically designed for a rear derailleur. However, the actuating device 10 can be used to position other types of components besides a bicycle's rear derailleur.

[0048] Here, the actuating device 10 comprises a handlebar mounting 12. The actuating device 10 is, for example, arranged on the right side of the handlebar H by the handlebar mounting 12 so that it can be actuated by the rider's right hand. Alternatively, the actuating device 10 can be designed as a mirror image and arranged on the left side of the handlebar H. While the handlebar H in the illustrated embodiment is a flat handlebar (e.g., an MTB handlebar), the actuating device 10 can be configured to be mounted on other types of handlebars, such as a racing bicycle handlebar (e.g., a road handlebar). The handlebar mounting 12 is configured to be mounted on the handlebar H in a conventional manner. The handlebar mounting 12 is preferably made of a strong, rigid material, such as a metal or a reinforced resin.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the actuating device 10 is configured to be operatively coupled to a vehicle (e.g., bicycle) component VC via a control cable C. Preferably, as shown in Figure 1, the actuator ... Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control cable C is a conventional bicycle actuation cable having an outer housing C1 that covers an inner wire C2. In other words, the control cable C is a Bowden cable in which the inner wire C2 is slidably contained within the outer housing C1. The inner wire C2 has a cable nipple or mounting sleeve C3, as shown in Figure 1. Fig. Figure 8 shows how to attach the inner wire C2 to the actuating device 10, as discussed below. The actuating device 10 actuates the bicycle component VC by selectively pulling and releasing the inner wire C2. Thus, the actuating device 10 forms a bicycle cable actuating device. The actuating device 10 comprises a housing 14 in which the inner wire C2 of the control cable C is pulled and released.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating device 10 is configured as a gear switch to control a gear position of a gear-shifting device of the bicycle component VC, such as a derailleur or an internal gear hub. However, the actuating device 10 can also be used as a bicycle control device to actuate other types of bicycle components (e.g., suspension, an adjustable seat post, etc.) as needed and / or desired. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the actuating device 10 has a plurality of predetermined steps, stages, or positions. If the bicycle component VC is a rear derailleur, the predetermined stages or positions of the actuating device 10 correspond to gear positions of the rear derailleur.

[0051] To actuate the control cable C, the actuating device 10 further comprises a release lever 16. The release lever 16 is an example of a user-actuated element. In the illustrated embodiment, the release lever 16 is a wire release lever used to release the control cable C from the housing 14. Here, the actuating device 10 further comprises a pull lever 18. The pull lever 18 is an example of a user-actuated element. In the illustrated embodiment, the pull lever 18 is a wire pull lever used to pull the control cable C into the housing 14. While the actuating device 10 of the illustrated embodiment uses two actuated elements (e.g., two levers), the actuating device 10 is not limited to this particular arrangement.For example, the actuating device 10 can be reconfigured so that the release lever 16 is also used as a pull lever if required and / or desired. Thus, the inner wire C2 is led out of the housing 14 in response to the actuation of the release lever 16, and the inner wire C2 is pulled into the housing 14 in response to the actuation of the pull lever 18.

[0052] Here, for example, the housing 14 comprises an upper housing and a lower housing. The upper and lower housings are coupled to each other by fastening devices. The upper and lower housings of the housing 14 are rigid links constructed from a suitable material, such as a hard plastic or a light metal, such as aluminum. However, the housing 14 can have a variety of configurations as needed and / or desired. Since the shape, size, and materials of the housing 14 can be virtually any suitable shape, size, and material, its construction will not be discussed further here.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen in 2, the release lever 16 can be moved in a first actuation direction D1 from a rest position, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, in a first actuated position, as in Fig. 2 shown, can be moved to perform a release actuation of the inner wire or inner wire C2. Likewise, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 shows the release lever 16 in a second actuation direction D2 from the rest position, as in Fig. 1 shown, into a second actuated position, as in Fig. Figure 3 shows that the release lever 16 is moved to perform a release actuation of the inner wire C2. The second actuation direction D2 differs from the first actuation direction D1. For example, as in the illustrated embodiment, the second actuation direction D2 is opposite to the first actuation direction D1. The term "rest position," as used here, refers to a state in which a part (e.g., the release lever 16) remains stationary without a user having to hold the part in that state. On the other hand, the terms "actuated position" and "actuated position," as used here, refer to a temporary state in which a part (e.g., the release lever 16) is temporarily held in a position due to an external force applied or introduced into the actuating device 10.

[0054] As explained below, the actuating device 10 can be actuated to change a current gear position of the positioning ratchet to several of the predetermined positions in a single continuous release actuation, based on the extent of the movement of the release lever 16 in the first actuation direction D1 from the rest position, as shown in Fig. 1 shown. In particular, when the release lever 16 is actuated from the rest position either in the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the current gear position can be changed to one of the predetermined positions, which is one or two steps away from the current gear position, in a single continuous release actuation of the release lever 16. The number of steps or predetermined positions that occur depends on how far the release lever 16 is moved from its rest position in either the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen in section 4, the pull lever 18 can be operated in a third direction D3 from a rest position, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, in an actuated position, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the actuating device 10 can be moved to perform a pull actuation of the inner wire C2. As explained below, the actuating device 10 can be actuated to change several of the predetermined positions in a single continuous pull actuation, based on the extent of the movement of the pull lever 18 in the third actuation direction D3. In particular, when the pull lever 18 is actuated in the third actuation direction D3 from the rest position, as shown in Figure 4, the actuating device 10 can be moved to change several of the predetermined positions in a single continuous pull actuation, based on the extent of the movement of the pull lever 18 in the third actuation direction D3. Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the current gear position can be changed to one of the predetermined positions that is two or more steps away from the current gear position in a single continuous pull of the pull lever 18.

[0056] With reference to the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. Section 9 now discusses the actuating device 10 in more detail. The actuating device 10 comprises a base 20. The base 20 supports the internal parts of the actuating device 10. The release lever 16 is movably arranged with respect to the base 20 from its rest position to an actuated position in the first actuating direction D1. The release lever 16 is further movably arranged with respect to the base 20 from its rest position to an actuated position in the second actuating direction D2, which differs from the first actuating direction D1.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6, the housing 14 is designed to cover the base 20 and the internal parts of the actuating device 10. The housing 14 is removably attached to the base 20. When the actuating device 10 is assembled, the housing 14 is fixed to the base 20. Thus, the housing 14 can be considered part of the base 20 of the actuating device 10. In other words, while the housing 14 is described as a separate part from the base 20, the upper and lower housings of the housing 14 can be considered part of the base 20 insofar as the housing 14 is a stationary support element integrated with the base 20.

[0058] The release lever 16 is pivotable with respect to the base 20 about a first lever axis A1, as shown in Fig. 11 shown, from the resting position, as in Fig. 1 shown, in a first actuated position, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the release lever 16 is arranged in the first actuation direction D1. Here, it is possible to change the current gear position to one of the predetermined positions two steps away from the current gear position in a single continuous release actuation of the release lever 16 in the first actuation direction D1. Thus, the actuating device 10 effectively has two first actuated positions in the first actuation direction D1. The release lever 16 is also pivotable with respect to the base 20 about a second lever axis A2, as shown in Figure 2. Fig. 11 shown, from the resting position, as in Fig. 1 shown, into a second actuated position, as in Fig. Figure 3 shows the second actuation direction D2, which differs from the first actuation direction D1. For example, as in the illustrated embodiment, it is possible to change the current gear position to one of the predetermined positions in a single continuous release actuation of the release lever 16 in the second actuation direction D2. Thus, the actuating device 10 effectively has a second actuated position in the second actuation direction D2. The first lever axis A1 is parallel to the second lever axis A2. It may be possible to change up to two of the predetermined positions in a single continuous release actuation of the release lever 16 in the second actuation direction D2.

[0059] The pull lever 18 is movable relative to the base 20 from a rest position, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, in an actuated position, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the pull lever 18 pivots about the second lever axis A2 in the third actuation direction D3 to perform a pull operation. While the pull lever 18 is being actuated by a user, the release lever 16 remains stationary in its rest position. The pull lever 18 also remains stationary in its rest position while the release lever 16 is actuated by a user in the first actuation direction D1 and by a user in the second actuation direction D2.

[0060] The base 20 is a stationary part with respect to the steering rod H. Here, the steering rod attachment 12 is coupled to the base 20. More precisely, the steering rod attachment 12 is removablely attached to the base 20. Alternatively, the steering rod attachment 12 could be directly attached to the housing 14, which in turn is attached to the base 20. In the assembled state of the actuating device 10, the steering rod attachment 12 is attached to the base 20. Thus, the steering rod attachment 12 can also be considered part of the base 20 of the actuating device 10, insofar as the steering rod attachment 12 is a stationary support element that is integrated with the base 20.

[0061] Here, the base 20 is primarily constructed on a first or base plate 22 and a second or cover plate 24. The base plate 22 and the cover plate 24 are coupled to each other to form an inner frame or base element of the actuating device 10. The base plate 22 and the cover plate 24 are rigid plate elements made of a suitable material, such as a metal or a reinforced composite material. In this example, the base plate 22 and the cover plate 24 are metal plates bent into the shapes shown.

[0062] As in the Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9 to Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the base 20 further comprises a fastening bolt 26 and a fastening cap 28 to couple the base plate 22 and the cover plate 24 together. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the base 20 further comprises a fastening bolt 26 and a fastening cap 28 to couple the base plate 22 and the cover plate 24 together. Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the fastening bolt 26 has a head section 26a and a shaft section 26b. The shaft section 26b is provided with an annular projection 26c. The annular projection 26c is secured in the fastening cap 28 by an interference fit.

[0063] With reference to the Fig. 6, Fig. 7 to Fig. 8 The release lever 16 here comprises a mounting section 16a, which is arranged within the housing 14, and a lever section 16b, which extends outside the housing 14 from the mounting section 16a. The mounting section 16a is movably attached to the base 20, as discussed below. The mounting section 16a and the lever section 16b are, for example, formed from a single piece of metal, with the lever section 16b having a plastic user contact section 16c that is molded onto the lever section 16b.

[0064] Similarly, the pull lever 18 comprises a mounting section 18a located within the housing 14 and a lever section 18b extending outside the housing 14 from the mounting section 18a. The mounting section 18a is pivotally attached to the base 20, as discussed below. The lever section 18b is arranged such that the user moves the lever section 18b to pivot the pull lever 18 relative to the base 20. The mounting section 18a and the lever section 18b are, for example, formed from a single piece of metal, with the lever section 18b having a plastic user contact section 18c molded onto the lever section 18b.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the release lever 16 is movably mounted on the base plate 22 of the base 20 by a support pin 34, which defines a first lever axis A1, as shown in the Fig. 11 and Fig. Figure 15 shows that the support pin 34 is attached to an underside of the base plate 22 by deforming (riveting) one end of the support pin 34 in an opening 22a, as shown in the figure. Fig. 11 and Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the release lever 16 is attached to the base plate 22. The fastening section 16a has a curved slot 16a1 with a center of curvature located on the first lever axis A1, and the support pin 34 is movably arranged in the curved slot 16a1. Thus, when the release lever 16 is moved in the first actuation direction D1 to perform a release actuation, the support pin 34 contacts one end of the curved slot 16a1, causing the release lever 16 to pivot on the first lever axis A1.

[0066] The release lever 16 can also be pivoted about a second lever axis A2, which is defined by the central axis of the mounting bolt 26. In this case, the release lever 16 is moved in the second actuation direction D2 to perform a release actuation. By moving the release lever 16 in the second actuation direction D2, the release lever 16 pivots on the second lever axis A2 because the support pin 34 engages in the curved slot 16a1. Thus, the lever section 16b is arranged so that the user moves the lever section 16b to pivot the release lever 16 relative to the base 20 either in the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2.

[0067] Here the base 20 is also provided with a sleeve adjustment device 40, which is adjustableally coupled to the base plate 22 in order to variably attach a contact point of one end of the outer housing C1 in relation to the base 20.

[0068] As mentioned above, the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 are movably arranged with respect to the base 20 in order to either release or pull the inner wire C2 with respect to the base 20. In particular, the mounting bolt 26 pivotally mounts the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 on the base plate 22 and the cover plate 24. In this way, the release lever 16 is movable with respect to the base plate 22 from the rest position, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, in the first actuated position, as in Fig. 2 shown, in the first actuation direction D1 and in the second actuated position, as in Fig. 3 shown, arranged in the second actuation direction D2. Likewise, the pull lever 18 is movable in this way with respect to the base plate 22 from the rest position, as shown in Fig. 1 shown, in the actuated position, as in Fig. 4 shown, arranged.

[0069] Here, the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 are biased into their rest positions with respect to the base 20. In other words, the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 are equipped with a release action so that each of the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 automatically returns to its rest position when moved from the rest position to an actuated position and then released. In the embodiment shown, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, a preload element 42 is provided for preloading the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 towards their rest positions. Here, the preload element 42 is positioned between the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18. The preload element 42 exerts a preload force on the release lever 16 so that the release lever 16 is preloaded against the support pin 34 to fix the rest position of the release lever 16. The preload element 42 also exerts a preload force on the pull lever 18 so that the pull lever 18 is preloaded against a downwardly extending flange 22b of the base plate 22 to fix the rest position of the pull lever 18. Here, for example, the preload element 42 is a torsion spring mounted on the mounting bolt 26.

[0070] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the pull lever 18 is rotatably arranged with respect to the base plate 22 via a lever plate 30. The lever plate 30 is rotatably mounted on the base plate 22 about the second lever axis A2. The pull lever 18 is fastened to the lever plate 30 by pins 31. The pull lever 18 is not movably coupled to the lever plate 30, so that the pull lever 18 and the lever plate 30 move as a unit with respect to the base 20.

[0071] The lever plate 30 includes a first stop 30a and a second stop 30b. The first stop 30a is contactable with the downwardly extending flange 22b of the base 20 to define the rest position of the pull lever 18. The second stop 30b is contactable with the downwardly extending flange 22b of the base 20 to limit rotation of the pull lever 18 in the third actuation direction D3.

[0072] As in the Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the actuating device 10 further comprises a positioning ratchet 44. The positioning ratchet 44 is movably supported with respect to the base 20 between a plurality of predetermined positions. The positioning ratchet 44 is movably supported with respect to the base 20 in a first direction R1 and a second direction R2, which is opposite to the first direction R1. Here, the positioning ratchet 44 is pivotably mounted on the mounting bolt 26 to pivot about the second lever axis A2. Thus, the positioning ratchet 44 is configured to pivot about the second lever axis A2.

[0073] The actuating device 10 further comprises a positioning element 46. Here, the positioning ratchet 44 includes a plurality of positioning ratchet teeth 44a. The positioning element 46 includes a positioning pawl 46a, which is movable relative to the base 20 between a holding position, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown, and a release position, as in the Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the positioning pawl 46a is supported. The positioning pawl 46a engages with the positioning ratchet 44 to selectively fix the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet 44 relative to the base 20 when the positioning pawl 46a is in the holding position. The positioning pawl 46a disengages from the positioning ratchet 44 to allow the positioning ratchet 44 to move relative to the base 20 in a release direction or second direction D2 when the positioning pawl 46a is in the release position. The positioning ratchet 44 and the positioning element 46 define a positioning mechanism for the actuating device 10, which is actuated in response to the actuation of the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18. Here, the positioning element 46 is pivotably mounted on the base 20 about a positioning axis or pivot axis A3.The pivot axis A3 is offset and parallel to the first lever axis A1 and the second lever axis A2. Specifically, the positioning element 46 is pivotally mounted on a pivot pin 48, which is supported between the base plate 22 and the cover plate 24. The pivot axis A3 is defined by a central longitudinal axis of the pivot pin 48. The positioning element 46 is biased relative to the base 20 in a first direction of rotation R6 about a positioning axis or pivot axis A3. In other words, the positioning element 46 is biased relative to the base 20 in the direction of engagement with the positioning ratchet 44, so that the positioning element 46 engages with the positioning ratchet 44.

[0074] As described above, the positioning element 46 includes a positioning pawl 46a, which is movable relative to the base 20 between a holding position, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown, and a release position, as in the Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the positioning pawl 46a engages with the positioning ratchet 44 to selectively fix the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet relative to the base 20 when the positioning pawl 46a is in the holding position. That is, the positioning pawl 46a engages with one of the plurality of positioning ratchet teeth 44a when the positioning pawl 46a is in the holding position. The positioning pawl 46a is disengaged from the positioning ratchet 44 to allow the positioning ratchet 44 to move relative to the base 20 in a release direction or second direction D2 when the positioning pawl 46a is in the release position. This means that the positioning pawl 46a is disengaged from the multitude of positioning ratchet teeth 44a when the positioning pawl 46a is in the release position.During a release actuation, as explained below, the positioning pawl 46a is disengaged from the positioning ratchet 44 to allow the positioning ratchet 44 to move in the second direction R2 with respect to the base 20 while the positioning pawl 46a is in the release position.

[0075] In this embodiment, the actuating device 10 further comprises a stop pawl 46b. As discussed in more detail below, the stop pawl 46b is movably arranged with respect to the base 20 between a stop position, in which the stop pawl 46b stops any release movement of the positioning ratchet 44, and a non-stop position, in which the stop pawl 46b allows the release movement of the positioning ratchet 44. The stop pawl 46b is provided to ensure that the positioning ratchet 44 moves only to one of the predetermined positions within a specific range of motion of the release lever 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating device 10 can perform up to two release actuations with a single continuous movement of the release lever 16 in the first actuation direction D1.In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating device 10 can perform a release actuation with a single continuous movement of the release lever 16 in the second actuation direction D2. In each case, the stop pawl 46b is configured to limit the movement of the positioning ratchet 44 during a release actuation using the release lever 16, as discussed below. Here, the stop pawl 46b is biased in the direction of the non-stop position, as explained below.

[0076] As in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20, Fig. 21 to Fig. As can be seen in figure 22, the stop pawl 46b is moved from the non-stop position in response to a release actuation of the release lever 16, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown, in the stop position, as in the Fig. 17 and Fig. 19 shown, moved. In the non-stop position, as in the Fig. 16 and Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the stop pawl 46b is located outside the movement path of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a, so that the stop pawl 46b does not touch the positioning ratchet teeth 44a. In the stop position, as shown in the Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the stop pawl 46b is moved into the path of movement of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a so that the stop pawl 46b contacts one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a to temporarily stop the movement of the positioning ratchet 44. Then, after temporarily stopping the movement of the positioning ratchet 44, the positioning ratchet 44 moves the stop pawl 46b back to the non-stop position, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown by biasing the positioning ratchet 44 in the second direction R2.

[0077] In this embodiment as well, the positioning element 46 includes the stop pawl 46b, so that the positioning pawl 46a and the stop pawl 46b are pivotably mounted as a single unit on the base 20. Here, the stop pawl 46b and the positioning pawl 46a are designed as a one-piece element that is pivotably mounted on the base 20 by the pivot pin 48. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the positioning pawl 46a and the stop pawl 46b are a single element that is pivotably mounted between the base plate 22 and the cover plate 24 by the pivot pin 48. Thus, the stop pawl 46b pivots on the pivot axis A3 when the stop pawl 46b is between the non-stop position, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown, and the stop position, as in the Fig. 17 and Fig. 19 shown, moved. However, the positioning pawl 46a and the stop pawl 46b can be configured as separate links that pivot on the same pivot axis, or as separate links that pivot on different pivot axes.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, a preload element 50 is supported on the pivot pin 48 to preload the positioning member 46 against the base 20 in order to establish a rest position for the positioning member 46. Specifically, the preload element 50 comprises a first end 50a, which is inserted into a hole 24e in the cover plate 24, and a second end 50b, which is received by a recessed section 46d of the positioning member 46. Thus, the preload element 50 preloads the positioning pawl 46a in the direction of engagement with the positioning ratchet 44 and preloads the stop pawl 46b away from engagement with the positioning ratchet 44. Here, the preload element 50 is a spring with a winding section arranged on the pivot pin 48.

[0079] As in the Fig. 10 and Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the actuating device 10 further comprises a cable receptacle 54 provided on the positioning ratchet 44. The positioning ratchet 44 is not movably coupled to the cable receptacle 54, so that the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44 move as a single unit with respect to the base 20. Thus, the cable receptacle 54 is fixed to the positioning ratchet 44 in the first direction R1 and the second direction R2. The position of the cable receptacle 54 with respect to the base 20 is selectively determined by the positioning ratchet teeth 44a, which selectively engage and disengage with the positioning pawl 46a. Here, the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44 are separate parts that are coupled to move as a single unit. Alternatively, the positioning ratchet 44 can be integrally formed as part of the cable receptacle 54 to be a single-piece link.

[0080] The cable receptacle 54 includes a cable holder. The inner wire C2 is attached to the cable holder of the cable receptacle 54 by the cable fastening sleeve C3. The cable receptacle 54 is pivotally mounted to the base 20 by the mounting bolt 26. The cable receptacle 54 pivots relative to the base 20 in the first direction R1, which corresponds to a pulling direction, and pivots relative to the base 20 in the second direction R2, which corresponds to the releasing direction.

[0081] With reference to the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11. The cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44 are preferably pre-tensioned in the second direction R2 with respect to the base 20. A pre-tensioning element 56 is provided between the upper plate 24 of the base 20 and the cable receptacle 54 to pre-tension the cable receptacle 54 in the second direction R2. Here, the pre-tensioning element 56 is a coiled torsion spring with a first free end engaging in a recess of the cable receptacle 54 and a second free end of the pre-tensioning element 56 engaging in a recess of the upper plate 24 of the base 20. The pre-tensioning element 56 is preferably pre-tensioned to pre-tension the cable receptacle 54 in the second direction R2 against a stop 24a of the upper plate 24 of the base 20.

[0082] Optionally, the actuating device 10 can further include a gear indicator that is operatively coupled to the cable receptacle 54 to display the current gear position of the cable receptacle 54. Since gear indicators are frequently used in actuating devices, a gear indicator operatively coupled to the cable receptacle 54 is not described or discussed in detail herein.

[0083] As in the Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the positioning element 46 includes a contact element 46c. The actuating device 10 further comprises a first release latch element 58 and a second release latch element 60. The first release latch element 58 is movable relative to the base 20 between a first engagement state, as shown in Figure 15. Fig. 17 shown, and a first out-of-intervention state, as in the Fig. 16, Fig. 18 and Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the first release pawl element 58 engages with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to disengage the positioning pawl 46a from the positioning ratchet 44 in a state in which the first release pawl element 58 is in the first engaged state. The first release pawl element 58 is disengaged from the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to allow the positioning pawl 46a to engage with the positioning ratchet 44 in a state in which the first release pawl element 58 is in the first disengaged state.

[0084] The second release latch element 60 differs from the first release latch element 58. The second release latch element 60 is movable relative to the base 20 between a second engagement state, as shown in Fig. 19 shown, and a second non-intervention state, as in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the second release pawl element 60 engages with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to disengage the positioning pawl 46a from the positioning ratchet 44 in a state where the second release pawl element 60 is in the second engaged state. The second release pawl element 60 is disengaged from the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to allow the positioning pawl 46a to engage with the positioning ratchet 44 in a state where the second release pawl element 60 is in the second disengaged state.

[0085] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the first release latch element 58 is in the first engaged state, in a state in which the second release latch element 60 is in the second disengaged state. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the second release latch element 60 is in the second engagement state in a state in which the first release latch element is in the first out-of-engage state.

[0086] The second release latch 60 is movable independently of the first release latch 58. In other words, the second release latch 60 is a component that is separate from the first release latch 58.

[0087] The first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 60 engage successively with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to change several of the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet 44 in a single continuous release actuation. This single continuous release actuation is performed by the release lever 16, which is actuated either in the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2.

[0088] The first release latch element 58 is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning element 46. The second release latch element 60 is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning element 46.

[0089] The actuating device 10 further comprises a second release element 61, which is movably supported with respect to the base 20. The second release element 61 and the first release element 62 are also separate parts. The second release element 61 is rotatably supported about the first lever axis A1 by the fastening bolt 26. The first release pawl element 58 is pivotably mounted on the second release element 61 about a fourth release axis A4, as shown in Fig. Figure 12 shows the second release latch element 60 being pivotably mounted on the second release element 61 about the fourth release axis A4. The release lever 16 is operatively coupled to the first release latch element 58 and the second release latch element 60 via the second release element 61.

[0090] The actuating device 10 further comprises a first preloading element 58a, as shown in Fig. Figure 13 shows a second preloading element 60a mounted between the first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 61. The actuating device 10 further comprises a second preloading element 60a mounted between the second release pawl 60 and the second release pawl 61. The first release pawl 58 is preloaded by the first preloading element 58a in the direction of engagement with the positioning element 46. The second release pawl 60 is also preloaded by the second preloading element 60a in the direction of engagement with the positioning element 46. The first preloading element 58a is a torsion coil spring supported by a pin provided on the second release pawl 61. Similarly, the second preloading element 60a is a torsion coil spring supported by a pin provided on the second release pawl 61. The second release pawl 61 includes a pin 61e.The first preload element 58a comprises a first end that engages with the first release latch 58, and a second end that engages with the pin 61e. The second preload element 60a comprises a first end that engages with the second release latch 60, and a second end that engages with the pin 61e.

[0091] As in the Fig. 12 and Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the first release latch element 58 includes a first release latch 58b, which is arranged to engage with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46. The first release latch 58b is located a first distance L1 from the fourth release axis A4. The first distance L1 can be a first straight-line distance. As shown in the Fig. 12 and Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the second release latch element 60 includes a second release latch 60b, which is arranged to engage with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46. The second release latch 60b is located a second distance L2, which differs from the first distance L1, from the fourth release axis A4. The second distance L2 can be a second straight-line distance.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the first distance L1 is greater than the second distance L2.

[0093] The first release latch element 58 further includes a first arm 58c extending from the fourth release axis A4 to the first release latch 58b. The second release latch element 60 further includes a second arm 60c extending from the fourth release axis A4 to the second release latch 60b. The first arm 58c is offset from the second arm 60c in the axial direction parallel to the fourth release axis A4.

[0094] The contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 is located in a plane. This plane is perpendicular to an axial direction that is parallel to the fourth release axis A4. The first release latch 58b is located in this plane. The second release latch 60b is also located in this plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm 58c is positioned below the second arm 60c in the axial direction, as shown in Fig. Figure 12 shows the first arm 58c located outside the plane, while the second arm 60c is located within the plane. The first release pawl 58b includes a projection extending from the first arm 58c in the axial direction parallel to the fourth release axis A4. The projection in the first release pawl 58b ensures that the first release pawl 58b is in the same plane as the second release pawl 60b.

[0095] The second release element 61 is operatively coupled to the positioning pawl 46a to move the positioning pawl 46a from the holding position to the release position in response to the second release element 61 moving from the first position to the second position. In other words, the positioning pawl 46a is disengaged from the positioning ratchet 44 by the movement of the second release element 61 from the first position to the second position. Specifically, in response to a release actuation of the release lever 16, the second release element 61 moves from the first position to the second position, thus disengaging the positioning pawl 46a from one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44.As a result, the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44 can move in the second direction R2 in response to the release lever 16 being actuated either in the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2 when a release actuation is performed.

[0096] The first release latch element 58 and the second release latch element 60 are separate parts that differ from each other.

[0097] The actuating device 10 further comprises a first release element 62. The first release element 62 includes a disengagement section 62a, which is arranged to disengage the first release pawl element 58 and the second release pawl element 60 from the positioning element 46 after the positioning ratchet 44 moves from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions during a release actuation. In particular, the disengagement section 62a disengages the first release pawl element 58 from the positioning element 46 in response to the positioning ratchet 44 moving from a first predetermined position to a second predetermined position during the release actuation.The release section 62a disengages the second release pawl element 60 of the positioning element 46 in response to the positioning ratchet 44 moving from the second predetermined position to a third predetermined position during the release actuation. The first release element 62 is pivotably mounted on the base 20 about the positioning axis or pivot axis A3. In particular, the first release element 62 is pivotably supported by the pivot pin 48.

[0098] Here, the second release element 61 is operatively coupled to the first release element 62 via the first release latch element 58 and the second release latch element 60. In this way, the movement of the release lever 16 is transmitted to the first release element 62 via the second release element 61, the first release latch element 58, and the second release latch element 60.

[0099] In principle, the second release element 61 is movably supported with respect to the base 20 between a first position and a second position. Here, the second release element 61 is pivotably arranged with respect to the base 20 about the second lever axis A2 between a first position and a second position in response to a movement of the release lever 16 from the rest position to the actuated position in the first actuation direction D1. In this way, the release lever 16 is movably arranged with respect to the base 20 to move the second release element 61 from the first position to the second position. In other words, the second release element 61 is moved from the first position to the second position in response to the release lever 16 being released from the rest position in the second actuation direction D2.In the illustrated embodiment, the second release element 61 is configured to pivot about the second lever axis A2 when the release lever 16 is actuated in the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2. Thus, the second release element 61 is moved in response to the release lever 16 being actuated in either the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2 in order to perform a release actuation.

[0100] The second release member 61 is pre-tensioned in the direction of the first position by a pre-tensioning element (e.g., the pre-tensioning element 42). In the illustrated embodiment, the pre-tensioning element 42 is used to pre-tension the second release member 61 in the direction of the first position and to pre-tension the release lever 16 and the pull lever 18 to each of their respective rest positions. The pre-tensioning element 42 directly exerts a pre-tensioning force on the pull lever 18 in the second direction R2 about the second lever axis A2.

[0101] Here, for example, the preload element 42 is a torsion spring mounted on the fastening bolt 26, with a first free end of the torsion spring hooked onto the pull lever 18 and a second free end of the torsion spring hooked onto an arm of the second release element 61. The preload element 42 directly exerts a preload force on the pull lever 18 in the second direction R2 about the second lever axis A2 and directly exerts a preload force on the second release element 61 in the first direction R1 about the second lever axis A2. Thus, the pull lever 18 and the second release element 61 are preloaded in opposite directions about the second lever axis A2.

[0102] The release lever 16 engages with the second release element 61 so that the preload force exerted on the second release element 61 by the preload element 42 is transmitted to the release lever 16, and a user actuation force exerted on the release lever 16 is transmitted to the second release element 61. In this way, the release lever 16 is effectively preloaded against the support pin 34 by the preload element 42 to define the rest position of the release lever 16 and the rest position of the second release element 61.

[0103] Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the second release element 61 is movably supported with respect to the base 20 to effect one or two release stages from the predetermined position corresponding to the current gear position in a single continuous movement of the release lever 16 from the first position of the second release element 61. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the second release element 61 is movably supported with respect to the base 20 between the first position, which corresponds to the initial or rest position, and the second position, which corresponds to a first release stage. Of course, the actuating device 10 can be configured to perform only a single release actuation in a single continuous movement of the release lever 16 from the first position of the second release element 61, if required and / or desired.

[0104] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 11, the second release element 61 is coupled to the release lever 16 to receive a user actuation force exerted on the release lever 16. In particular, as shown in Fig. Figure 15 shows the release lever 16 in its rest position and the second release element 61 in its first position, which is also the rest position. The release lever 16 includes a force transmission projection or finger 16a2 and a force transmission surface 16a3, which engage with the second release element 61 while in their rest positions, as shown in Figure 15. Fig. 15. The second release element 61 includes a force-receiving projection 61a or finger and a force-receiving surface 61b, which engage with the release lever 16 while in their rest positions, as shown in Fig. Figure 15 shows that when the release lever 16 and the second release element 61 are in their rest positions, the force transmission projection 16a2 of the release lever 16 contacts the force receiving projection 61a of the second release element 61, and the force transmission surface 16a3 of the release lever 16 contacts the force receiving surface 61b of the second release element 61. The contact between the force transmission projection 16a2 and the force receiving projection 61a, and the contact between the force transmission surface 16a3 and the force receiving surface 61b, is maintained by the preload force of the preload element 42. With this arrangement, the release lever 16 can be moved from its rest positions in either the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2 to perform a release actuation by pivoting the second release element 61 in the second direction R2 about the second lever axis A2.

[0105] The first release latch 58 and the second release latch 60 are configured to be disengaged from the positioning element 46 by the first release element 62. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the first release element 62 includes a disengagement section 62a, which is arranged to disengage the first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 60 from the positioning element 46 after the positioning ratchet 44 moves from one of the predetermined positions to another during the release actuation. The disengagement section 62a includes a sliding surface 62a1 that receives the first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 60 and displaces them to move away from the pivot axis A3.

[0106] The first release element 62 is movable with respect to the base 20 between a starting position, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown, and an actuated position, as in the Fig. 17 and Fig. As shown in Figure 19, the first release element 62 is pivotably attached to the positioning element 46 about the pivot axis A3, which is offset and parallel to the second lever axis A2 of the second release element 61. Specifically, the first release element 62 is pivotably mounted on the base 20 by the pivot pin 48, which also pivotally supports the positioning element 46.

[0107] As in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the first release element 62 is moved from its initial position to the actuated position by the first release latch element 58 and the second release latch element 60, which engage with the positioning element 46 and pivot it about the pivot axis A3. While the first release element 62 is in the actuated position, the first release element 62 is moved by the first release latch element 58, as shown in Figure 20. Fig. 17 shown, or the second release latch element 60, as in Fig. 19 shown, pivotally moved, which results in the pull latch being 80° from the engagement position, as shown in the Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown, in the non-intervention position, as in the Fig. 17 and Fig. Figure 19 shows how the first release element 62 is moved. In particular, the first release element 62 includes a first contact section 62b. The first contact section 62b is arranged to contact the pull pawl 80 in order to move the pull pawl 80 from the engaged position to the non-engaged position. When the first release element 62 is moved into the actuated position, the first release element 62b contacts the pull pawl 80. Furthermore, while the first release element 62 is in the actuated position, the first release element 62 moves in the path of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a, as shown in the figure. Fig. 17 and Fig. Figure 19 shows that the first release element 62 includes a second contact section 62c. The second contact section 62c is arranged to be touched and moved by the positioning ratchet 44 when the positioning ratchet 44 is released by the positioning pawl 46a.

[0108] The first release element 62 is moved from its initial position to the actuated position by the second release element 61, which moves from its initial position towards its second position. Specifically, the first release element 62 moves from its initial position to the actuated position via the second release element 61, the first release latch 58 or the second release latch 60, and the positioning element 46 in response to the release lever 16 being moved from its rest position to the first actuated position in the first actuation direction D1 or the second actuation direction D2. More precisely, the first release latch 58, the second release latch 60, and the second release element 61 move together in response to the actuation of the release lever 16.As a result, one of the first release pawl element 58 and the second release pawl element 60 engages with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to pivot the positioning element 46 and the first release element 62 together as a unit about the pivot axis A3. When the positioning element 46 is pivoted by one of the first release pawl element 58 and the second release pawl element 60, the positioning pawl 46a is moved from the holding position to the release position, and the first release element 62 is moved from the home position to the actuated position. Then, when the first release element 62 is in the actuated position, the second contact section 62c is in the path of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44.When the positioning ratchet 44 rotates in the second direction R2 as a result of the positioning pawl 46a being in the release position, one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 will contact the second contact section 62c of the first release element 62. This rotation of the positioning ratchet 44 then pivots the first release element 62 into a starting position to disengage the first release pawl element 58 or the second release pawl element 60 from the positioning element 46. Specifically, the disengagement section 62a of the first release element 62 pivots the first release pawl element 58 or the second release pawl element 60 out of contact with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46.

[0109] As in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. As shown in Figure 20, when the release lever 16 is moved in the first actuation direction D1, the release lever 16 pivots on the first lever axis A1, and the second release element 61 is moved in the second direction R2 about the second lever axis A2. Furthermore, depending on the extent of the movement of the release lever 16 in the first actuation direction D1, one or two release stages of the predetermined positions are performed. Additionally, when the release lever 16 is moved in the second actuation direction D2, the release lever 16 and the second release element 61 pivot together on the second lever axis A2, so that the second release element 61 is moved in the second direction R2 about the second lever axis A2.

[0110] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, when performing a release action, a user exerts an actuating force on the release lever 16 either in the first actuating direction D1 or the second actuating direction D2. This actuating force of the release lever 16 is then transferred to the second release element 61, so that the second release element 61 pivots in a third direction R3 about the second lever axis A2 and then moves the first release latch element 58 in the direction of the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46.

[0111] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 17, the first release pawl element 58 then engages with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 to pivot both the positioning element 46 and the first release element 62 together around the pivot axis A3, causing the first contact section 62b of the first release element 62 to rotate in a fifth direction R5. The first contact section 62b of the first release element 62 moves the pull pawl 80 in a seventh direction R7 from the engaged position to the non-engaged position, allowing the positioning ratchet 44 to move in the second direction D2 with respect to the base 20. Furthermore, the second contact section 62c of the first release element 62 moves into the path of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 when the positioning element 46 and the first release element 62 pivot together about the pivot axis A3.The pivoting movement of the positioning element 46 about the pivot axis A3 causes the positioning pawl 46a to disengage from one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44. In this way, the positioning ratchet 44 and the cable receptacle 54 move together in the second direction R2. As the positioning ratchet 44 moves in the second direction R2, it contacts the second contact section 62c of the first release element 62, pivoting the first release element 62 relative to the positioning element 46 about the pivot axis A3 towards its initial position about the pivot axis A3.

[0112] In particular, one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 contacts the second contact section 62c of the first release element 62 to move the first release element 62 about the pivot axis A3 towards the initial position. This movement of the first release element 62 about the pivot axis A3 towards the initial position causes the disengagement section 62a of the first release element 62 to disengage the first release pawl 58 from the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46. Specifically, the disengagement section 62a of the first release element 62 collides with the first release pawl 58 and pushes the first release pawl 58 outwards, causing the first release pawl 58 to disengage from the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46.

[0113] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the positioning element 46, being biased towards engagement with the positioning ratchet 44, pivots in a sixth direction R6 about the pivot axis A3 after the positioning ratchet 44 has moved from one of the predetermined positions to another. This movement causes the positioning pawl 46a to engage with one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44. Similarly, the pull pawl 80, also biased towards engagement with the positioning ratchet 44, pivots in an eighth direction R8 about the pivot axis A5 after the positioning ratchet 44 has moved from one of the predetermined positions to another, moving from the non-engagement position to the engagement position.

[0114] As in the Fig. 19 and Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the user, who continues to actuate the release lever 16 without moving the release lever 16 back towards its rest position, can engage the second release pawl 60 successively with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 in the same manner as discussed above, in order to perform an additional release stage of the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet 44. When the release lever 16 is released and returns to its rest position, the second release element 61 pivots in the first direction R1 about the second lever axis A2 back to the first position, and the first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 60 move back to their rest positions with the second release element 61.

[0115] As described above, the positioning ratchet 44 is movable between a plurality of predetermined positions. This plurality of predetermined positions includes a release end position, a receptacle end position, and one or more intermediate positions between the release end position and the receptacle end position. The disengagement section 62a of the first release element 62 covers the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 in a state in which the positioning ratchet 44 is in the release end position, as shown in Fig. 20 shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the positioning element 46 is positioned such that it overlaps the first release element 62 in the axial direction parallel to the pivot axis A3. The contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 is covered by the first release element 62, in particular by the disengagement section 62a. In contrast, the disengagement section 62a of the first release element 62 does not cover the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 in a state in which the positioning ratchet 44 is in the receiving end position, and the intermediate positions, as shown in Figure 20, are also not covered. Fig. 16 and Fig. 18 shown so that the first release latch element 58 and the second release latch element 60 can be brought into engagement with the touching part 46c.

[0116] The release section 62a of the first release element 62 is designed to keep the first release latch element 58 away from the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 by covering the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46.

[0117] Likewise, the release section 62a of the first release element 62 is arranged to keep the second release latch element 60 away from the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46 by covering the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46.

[0118] In a state where the positioning ratchet 44 is in the release end position, the first release element 62 is in a covering position, in which the first release element 62 covers the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the cable receptacle 54 includes a cam 54b that engages with the first release element 62. The cam 54b is provided on an outer surface of the receptacle 54. The first release element 62 includes a third contact section 62d that engages with the cam 54b of the receptacle 54. When the positioning ratchet 44 moves in the second direction R2 with respect to the base 20 into the release end position, the third contact section 62d contacts the cam 54b to pivot the first release element 62 about the pivot axis A3, causing the first release element 62 to be in the covered position. The cam 54b is configured to maintain the first release element 62 in a covered state in the release end position. The first release element 62 covers the contact part 26c of the positioning element 46.

[0119] The cable receptacle 54 also includes a recessed section or recessed section 54a in the outer surface of the receptacle 54. The recessed section 54a can accommodate the first contact section 62b of the first release element 62 in a state in which the first release element 62 is in the covering position.

[0120] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the release section 62a of the first release element 62 includes the sliding surface 62a1, which receives the first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 60 and moves them away from the pivot axis A3. When the release lever 16 is moved in the first actuation direction D1, the release lever 16 pivots on the first lever axis A1, and the second release element 61 is moved in the second direction R2 about the second lever axis A2 together with the first release pawl 58 and the second release pawl 60. The first release latch element 58 and the second release latch element 60 touch the sliding surface 62a1 and slide away from the pivot axis A3 on the sliding surface 62a1 without engaging with the contact part 46c of the positioning element 46.

[0121] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 22, when the release lever 16 is moved back to its rest position in a fourth direction R4, the release lever 16 pivots on the first lever axis A1 and the second release element 61 is moved in the fourth direction R4 about the second lever axis A2 together with the first release pawl element 58 and the second release pawl element 60. The first release pawl element 58 and the second release pawl element 60 rotate back to their rest positions.

[0122] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the second release element 61 has a first stop 61c and a second stop 61d. The first stop 61c can be contacted by the release lever 16 to limit rotation of the release lever 16 in the first actuation direction D1. The second stop 61d can be contacted by the downwardly extending flange 22b of the base plate 22, as shown in Figure 15. Fig. 9 shown to limit a rotation of the release lever 16 in the second actuation direction D2.

[0123] The actuating device 10 is designed to perform a pull actuation of the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44 using the pull lever 18. As mentioned above and in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the pull lever 18 is pre-tensioned by the pre-tensioning force of the pre-tensioning element 42 in contact with the downwardly extending flange 22b of the base plate 22, as shown in Fig. Figure 9 shows that the pull lever 18 is in a ready position for pull operation. A user can perform a single-stage operation of the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44, as shown in the Fig. 23, Fig. 24 to Fig. 25 to be seen, or a multi-stage operation of the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44 by further turning the pull lever 18 in the third operating direction D3.

[0124] To effect a pull actuation of the cable receptacle 54 and the positioning ratchet 44, the actuating device 10 further comprises a pull pawl or pull latch 80. The pull latch 80 is movably mounted with respect to the base between an engagement position and a non-engagement position. The pull latch 80 selectively engages with one of the plurality of positioning ratchet teeth during a pull actuation when the pull latch 80 is in the engagement position. The pull latch 80 is disengaged from the positioning ratchet 44 to allow the positioning ratchet 44 to move with respect to the base 20 in the release direction or the second direction R2 when the pull latch 80 is in the non-engagement position. The pull latch 80 is pivotably mounted with respect to the base 20 about a pivot axis A5, as shown in Fig. 23 can be seen. In particular, the pull pawl 80 is pivotably mounted on the pull lever 18 in order to selectively engage with the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 in response to a movement of the pull lever 18 from the rest position to the actuated position.

[0125] In this way, the pawl 80 is moved with the movement of the pull lever 18 and pivots on the pull lever 18 to selectively engage and disengage with the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44. As a result, the positioning ratchet 44 is moved from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions in response to the pull lever 18 moving from its rest position to its actuated position. In particular, the pawl 80 selectively engages with one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 to move the cable receptacle 54 in the first direction R1 during a pull actuation, as shown in Fig. Figure 24 shows that while the positioning ratchet 44 moves from the first direction R1 during a pull actuation, the cable receptacle 54 pivots relative to the base 20 in the first direction R1, which corresponds to a cable pull direction. The cable receptacle 54 can be moved through one or more of the predetermined positions, depending on the extent of the movement of the pull lever 18 about the second lever axis A2. Thus, the positioning ratchet 44 moves from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions in response to the pull lever 18 moving from the rest position to the actuated position, as shown in Figure 24. Fig. 25 shown. Again, the number of steps or predetermined positions that are changed depends on how far the user pivots the pull lever 18 from the rest position.

[0126] As in the Fig. 23, Fig. 24 to Fig. As shown in Figure 25, the pull pawl 80 includes a projection 81 and a projection 82, which are configured to selectively engage with the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 during pull operation. The pull pawl 80 is pivotably mounted on the lever plate 30 by means of a pivot pin 84. In this way, the projection 81 and the projection 82 are selectively pivoted towards and away from the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44.

[0127] The pull pawl 80 is movably mounted with respect to the base 20 between an engagement position and a non-engagement position. The pull pawl 80 selectively engages with one of the plurality of positioning ratchet teeth 44a during a pull actuation when the pull pawl 80 is in the engagement position. The pull pawl 80 is disengaged from the positioning ratchet 44 to allow the positioning ratchet 44 to move in the second direction R2 with respect to the base 20 when the pull pawl is in the non-engagement position. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the pull pawl 80 is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning ratchet 44. Here, as in Fig. Figure 15 shows a preload element 86 provided between the pull lever 18 and the pull pawl 80 for preloading the pull pawl 80 in the direction of engagement with the positioning ratchet 44. For example, as in the illustrated embodiment, the preload element 86 can be a torsion spring, the winding section of which is mounted on the pivot pin 84 and which has opposite free ends that engage with the lever plate 30 and the pull pawl 80, respectively.

[0128] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 25, the pull lever 18 is in its rest position and the positioning ratchet 44 is in one of its predetermined positions. In the rest position of the positioning ratchet 44, the projection 82 of the pull pawl 80 is biased in contact with one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44. In this way, the projection 82 of the pull pawl 80 is kept out of contact with the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44.

[0129] Since the preload element 86 biases the pull pawl 80 towards engagement with the positioning ratchet 44 in the illustrated embodiment, the pull pawl 80 is preferably moved out of the path of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 during a release actuation. In the illustrated embodiment, the first contact section 62b of the first release element 62 is configured to disengage the pull pawl 80 from the positioning ratchet 44. In particular, the pull pawl 80 includes a disengagement element 88 that is contacted with the first contact section 62b of the first release element 62 when the first release element 62 is moved into the actuated position.

[0130] The second release latch element 60 is operatively coupled to the pull latch 80 via the first release element 62 in order to move the pull latch 80 from the engaged position to the non-engaged position in a state in which the second release latch element 60 is in the second engaged state. As shown in the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19 to Fig. As shown in Figure 20, the first contact section 62b of the first release element 62 is configured to contact the release element 88 of the pull pawl 80 in order to move the pull pawl 80 away from the positioning ratchet 44 in response to a disengagement movement of the positioning pawl 46a. The first release pawl element 58 and the second release pawl element 60 are operatively coupled to the pull pawl 80 by the first release element 62 to move the pull pawl 80 from the engaged position to the disengaged position in a state in which either the first release pawl element 58 or the second release pawl element 60 is in the second engaged state. In this way, the pull pawl 80 does not impede the movement of the positioning ratchet 44 in the second direction during a release actuation.

[0131] With reference to the Fig. 23, Fig. 24 to Fig. Section 25 now discusses cable actuation using the pull lever 18. If the pull lever 18 is moved from its rest position in the third actuation direction D3, as described in... Fig. As shown in Figure 23, when the positioning ratchet 44 is moved into the actuated position, one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 contacts the projection 82. In particular, the pull pawl 80 engages with one of the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 to rotate the positioning ratchet 44 in the first direction R1. ... Fig. As can be seen in Figure 25, when the pull lever 18 has been released and returns to its rest position, the projection 81 touches the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44 so that the pull pawl 80 can ratchet over the positioning ratchet teeth 44a of the positioning ratchet 44.

[0132] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open terms that specify the presence of the mentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unmentioned features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "including," "having," and their derivatives. Likewise, the terms "part," "section," "section," "link," or "element," when used in the singular, may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise specified.

[0133] As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side," "non-frame-facing side," "forward," "backward," "front," "backward," "up," "down," "over," "under," "upward," "downward," "above," "below," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "perpendicular," and "transverse," as well as all other similar directional terms, refer to the directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle) in an upright riding position, equipped with the operating device. Accordingly, these directional terms, as used to describe the operating device, should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface, equipped with the operating device.The terms “left” and “right” are used to indicate “right” when viewed from the right side from the rear of the muscle-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle), and “left” when viewed from the left side from the rear of the muscle-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle).

[0134] The phrase “at least one of,” as used in this revelation, means “one or more” of a desired choice. For example, the phrase “at least one of,” as used in this revelation, means “only a single choice” or “both of two choices” when the number of choices is two. For another example, the phrase “at least one of,” as used in this revelation, means “only a single choice” or “any combination of two or more choices” when the number of choices is three or more.

[0135] It is also understood that, although the terms "first" and "second" may be used here to describe different components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, a first component discussed above could be referred to as a second component and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0136] The term "attached" or "fastening," as used here, encompasses configurations in which one element is directly attached to another by directly fastening the element to the other; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other by fastening the element to the intermediate element(s), which are in turn attached to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another, i.e., one element is essentially part of the other. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "bonded," "fastened," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree, such as "essentially," "about," and "approximately," as used here, indicate a degree of deviation from the modified term such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0137] While 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 modifications and adaptations can be made here 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 can be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that the changes do not substantially impair their intended function. Unless expressly stated otherwise, components shown to be directly connected or in contact with one another may have intermediate structures arranged between them, provided that the changes do not substantially impair their intended function.The functions of one element can be performed by two and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Any feature that is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustrative purposes only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. REFERENCE MARK 10 Actuating device 20 base 44 Positioning ratchet 44a Positioning ratchet teeth 46 Positioning element 46c Contact part 46a Positioning latch 58 first release latch link 60 second release latch link 62 first release link 62a Departure section 61 second release link A4 release axle 58a first prestressing element 60a second prestressing element 58b first release latch 60b second release latch 58c first arm 60c second arm A3 positioning axis 80 pull handle 62b first contact section 54 Cable intake 54b cam

Claims

Actuating device for a human-powered vehicle, the actuating device comprising: a base; a positioning ratchet movably supported with respect to the base between a plurality of predetermined positions, the positioning ratchet comprising a plurality of positioning ratchet teeth; a positioning element comprising a contact part and a positioning pawl movably supported with respect to the base between a holding position and a release position, the positioning pawl engaging with the positioning ratchet to selectively fix the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet with respect to the base when the positioning pawl is in the holding position, the positioning pawl disengaging with the positioning ratchet to allow the positioning ratchet to move with respect to the base in a release direction,when the positioning pawl is in the release position; a first release pawl member movably arranged with respect to the base between a first engaged state and a first disengaged state, wherein the first release pawl member engages with the contact part of the positioning member to disengage the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet in a state in which the first release pawl member is in the first engaged state, wherein the first release pawl member disengages with the contact part of the positioning member to allow the positioning pawl to engage with the positioning ratchet in a state in which the first release pawl member is in the first disengaged state; a second release pawl member different from the first release pawl member,wherein the second release pawl member is movably arranged with respect to the base between a second engaged state and a second disengaged state, wherein the second release pawl member engages with the contact part of the positioning member to disengage the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet in a state in which the second release pawl member is in the second engaged state, wherein the second release pawl member disengages with the contact part of the positioning member to allow the positioning pawl to engage with the positioning ratchet in a state in which the second release pawl member is in the second disengaged state, wherein the first release pawl member is in the first engaged state in a state in which the second release pawl member is in the second disengaged state,wherein the second release pawl is in the second engagement state in a state in which the first release pawl is in the first disengaged state; and a first release element comprising a disengagement section arranged to disengage the first release pawl and the second release pawl from the positioning element after the positioning ratchet moves from one of the predetermined positions to another of the predetermined positions during a release actuation. Actuating device according to claim 1, in which the second release latch element is movable independently of the first release latch element. Actuating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first release pawl member and the second release pawl member successively engage with the contact part of the positioning member to change several of the predetermined positions of the positioning ratchet in a single continuous release actuation. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the first release pawl element is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning element, and the second release pawl element is biased in the direction of engagement with the positioning element. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a second release element which is movably supported with respect to the base, wherein the first release latch element is pivotably mounted on the second release element about a release axis, and the second release latch element is pivotably mounted on the second release element about the release axis. Actuating device according to claim 5, further comprising: a first preloading element mounted between the first release pawl member and the second release member, and a second preloading element mounted between the second release pawl member and the second release member, wherein the first release pawl member is preloaded by the first preloading element in the direction of engagement with the positioning member, and the second release pawl member is preloaded by the second preloading element in the direction of engagement with the positioning member. Actuating device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the first release pawl member includes a first release pawl arranged to engage with the contact part of the positioning member, the first release pawl being located a first distance from the release axis, and the second release pawl member includes a second release pawl arranged to engage with the contact part of the positioning member, the second release pawl being located a second distance from the release axis which differs from the first distance. Actuating device according to claim 7, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance. Actuating device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the contact part of the positioning element is located in a plane, the plane being perpendicular to an axial direction parallel to the release axis, the first release pawl being located in the plane, and the second release pawl being located in the plane. Actuating device according to claim 9, wherein the first release pawl member further includes a first arm extending from the release axis to the first release pawl, the second release pawl member further includes a second arm extending from the release axis to the second release pawl, and the first arm is offset from the second arm in the axial direction. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 10, in which the positioning element is pivotably mounted on the base about a positioning axis, and the first release element is pivotably mounted on the base about the positioning axis. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the plurality of predetermined positions includes a release end position, a receiving end position and one or more intermediate positions between the release end position and the receiving end position, and the disengagement section of the first release element covers the contact part of the positioning element in a state in which the positioning ratchet is in the release end position. Actuating device according to claim 12, in which the release section of the first release element is configured to keep the first release latch element away from the contact part of the positioning element by covering the contact part of the positioning element. Actuating device according to claim 12 or 13, in which the release section of the first release element is configured to keep the second release latch element away from the contact part of the positioning element by covering the contact part of the positioning element. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 14, in which the positioning element is pre-tensioned in a first direction of rotation about the positioning axis with respect to the base. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a pull pawl which is movably mounted with respect to the base between an engagement position and a non-engagement position, wherein the pull pawl selectively engages with one of the plurality of positioning ratchet teeth during a pull actuation when the pull pawl is in the engagement position, wherein the pull pawl is disengaged from the positioning ratchet to allow the positioning ratchet to move in the release direction with respect to the base when the pull pawl is in the non-engagement position, wherein the first release pawl element is operatively coupled to the pull pawl by the first release element to move the pull pawl from the engagement position to the non-engagement position in a state in which the first release pawl element is in the first engagement state. Actuating device according to claim 16, in which the second release pawl member is operatively coupled to the pull pawl by the first release member in order to move the pull pawl from the engagement position to the non-engagement position in a state in which the second release pawl member is in the second engagement state. Actuating device according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the first release element includes a first contact section arranged to touch the pull pawl in order to move the pull pawl from the engagement position to the non-engagement position. Actuating device according to one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a cable receptacle provided on the positioning ratchet, wherein the cable receptacle includes a cam which engages with the first release element. Actuating device according to claim 19, in which the cam is arranged to maintain the first release member in a covering state in the release end position, wherein the first release member covers the contact part of the positioning member in the covering state.

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