COUPLING UNIT FOR A PEDAL ARRANGEMENT AND PEDAL

Abstract

A coupling unit 20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620 detachably couples a shoe plate 16 of a shoe SH with a pedal assembly 10. The coupling unit 20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620 comprises a first coupling element 60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660, a second coupling element 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662, and a shaft 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664. The first coupling element 60, 160, The coupling elements 260, 360, 460, 560, 660 and the second coupling element 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662 are designed to detachably couple the shoe plate 16 with the coupling unit 20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620. The first coupling element 60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660 has a pair of openings. The second coupling element 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662 has a pair of openings. The second coupling element 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662 is rotatably coupled to the first coupling element 60, 160, 260, 364, 464, 564, 664 via the shaft 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 560, 664.The shaft 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664 is arranged in the openings, for example, such that the second coupling element 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662 is pivotably coupled to the first coupling element 60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660 by the shaft 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664. In one embodiment, the shaft 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664 is pressed into at least one of the openings. In another embodiment, the shaft 64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664 is attached with its opposite axial ends by crimp connections to one of the first coupling elements 60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660 and the second coupling elements 62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662.

Description

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a coupling unit for a pedal assembly and a pedal. More specifically, the present invention relates to a coupling unit for a pedal assembly configured for use with a human-powered vehicle and a pedal incorporating this coupling unit.

[0002] Pedals were designed for specific purposes, such as comfort, recreational cycling, off-road cycling, road racing, sports, etc. One particular type of pedal that is gaining increasing popularity is the clipless pedal. A conventional clipless pedal is detachably connected to a cleat that is attached to the sole of the user's shoe. Thus, the bottom of the user's shoe is attached to the pedal to transfer the user's pedaling force to the pedal. In other words, with clipless pedals, the shoes and pedals are in constant contact as the cleats engage a cleat attachment mechanism, allowing pedaling force to be efficiently transferred to the pedals. A conventional clipless pedal includes a pedal axle that can be attached to a crank of a human-powered vehicle, a main pedal body that is rotatably mounted on the pedal axle, and a cleat coupling unit.In such a conventional bicycle pedal, the cleat is usually released by twisting the shoe, with the heel of the shoe moving outwards while the shoe remains connected to the pedal.

[0003] In general, the present invention is directed to various features of a coupling unit for a pedal assembly configured for use with a human-powered vehicle. The term "human-powered vehicle," as used herein, refers to a vehicle that can be driven at least by human motive power to generate propulsion, but does not include a vehicle that exclusively uses a motive power other than human power. The human-powered vehicle is generally a compact, lightweight vehicle that, in some cases, does not require a driver's license to drive on public roads. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, unicycles and those that have three or more wheels.Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, racing bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes and recumbent bikes as well as bicycles with electric assistance (e-bikes).

[0004] In view of the prior art and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a coupling unit for a pedal assembly is provided. The pedal assembly is intended for use with human-powered vehicles. The coupling unit releasably couples a cleat of a shoe to the pedal assembly. The coupling unit essentially comprises a first coupling element, a second coupling element, and a shaft. The first coupling element is configured to releasably couple the cleat to the coupling unit. The first coupling element is configured to be disposed on a pedal body of the pedal assembly. The first coupling element has a first opening and a second opening. The second coupling element is configured to releasably couple the cleat to the coupling unit. The second coupling element is rotatable between a cleat-holding position and a cleat-unholding position.The second coupling element is coupled to the first coupling element. The second coupling element has a third opening and a fourth opening. The shaft has a central axis. The shaft is arranged in the first opening, the second opening, the third opening, and the fourth opening such that the second coupling element is rotatable about the central axis. The shaft is press-fitted into at least one of the first opening, the second opening, the third opening, and the fourth opening. The shaft is press-fitted into the first opening when the shaft is press-fitted into the second opening or when the shaft is loosely fitted into the second opening, the third opening, and the fourth opening. The shaft is press-fitted into the second opening when the shaft is loosely fitted into the first opening, the third opening, and the fourth opening.The shaft is pressed into the third hole when the shaft is pressed into the fourth hole, or when the shaft is loosely fitted into the first hole, the second hole, and the fourth hole. The shaft is pressed into the fourth hole when the shaft is loosely fitted into the first, second, and third holes.

[0005] With the coupling unit according to the first aspect, the first coupling element and the second coupling element can be easily and reliably coupled to the shaft.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a coupling unit for a pedal assembly is provided. The pedal assembly is configured to be used with a human-powered vehicle. The coupling unit releasably couples the cleat of a shoe to the pedal assembly. The coupling unit essentially comprises a first coupling element, a second coupling element, and a shaft. The first coupling element is configured to releasably couple the cleat to the coupling unit. The first coupling element is configured to be disposed on a pedal body of the pedal assembly. The first coupling element has a first opening and a second opening. The second coupling element is configured to releasably couple the cleat to the coupling unit. The second coupling element is rotatable between a cleat-holding position and a cleat-unholding position.The second coupling element is coupled to the first coupling element. The second coupling element has a third opening and a fourth opening. The shaft has a central axis. The shaft is arranged in the first opening, the second opening, the third opening, and the fourth opening such that the second coupling element is rotatable about the central axis.

[0007] The shaft has a first axial end and a second axial end opposite the first axial end. Both the first axial end and the second axial end are secured to the first coupling element or the second coupling element by means of a crimp connection.

[0008] With the coupling unit according to the second aspect, the first coupling element and the second coupling element can be easily and reliably coupled to the shaft.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the first aspect or the second aspect further comprises a biasing element that biases the second coupling element toward the cleat holding position. With the coupling unit according to the third aspect, the second coupling element can be reliably returned to the cleat holding position to secure the cleat after a cleat engagement operation and / or a cleat release operation.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the first coupling element includes an outer portion and an inner portion, wherein both the inner portion and the outer portion are curved toward each other. With the coupling unit according to the fourth aspect, an increase in the lateral width of the coupling unit can be suppressed.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the fourth aspect is configured such that a curvature of the inner portion differs from a curvature of the outer portion. With the coupling unit according to the fifth aspect, improper attachment of the coupling unit to a pedal body can be reliably prevented.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect is configured such that the outer portion includes an outer engagement recess configured to engage with another positioning profile of the pedal body, and the inner portion includes an inner engagement recess configured to engage with a positioning profile of the pedal body. With the coupling unit according to the sixth aspect, the coupling unit can be easily positioned on the pedal body.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the inner engagement recess has a different shape than the outer engagement recess. With the coupling unit according to the seventh aspect, improper attachment of the coupling unit to a pedal body can be reliably prevented.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to seventh aspects is configured such that the first opening is located adjacent to the third opening with respect to an axial direction defined by the center axis of the shaft, and the second opening is located adjacent to the fourth opening with respect to the axial direction. With the coupling unit according to the eighth aspect, the first coupling element and the second coupling element can be easily attached to the shaft.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that the shaft is press-fitted into the first opening and the second opening. In the coupling unit according to the ninth aspect, the shaft is fixed to the first coupling member to prevent axial movement of the shaft relative to the first coupling member.

[0016] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is configured such that the shaft is press-fitted into the third opening and the fourth opening. In the coupling unit according to the tenth aspect, the shaft is fixed to the second coupling member to prevent axial movement of the shaft relative to the second coupling member.

[0017] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured such that the first coupling element includes a first pedal-side fixed portion, a second pedal-side fixed portion, and a cleat engagement portion. The cleat engagement portion connects the first pedal-side fixed portion and the second pedal-side fixed portion to each other. In the coupling unit according to the eleventh aspect, the cleat engagement portion of the first coupling element is appropriately arranged relative to a pedal body, and the first coupling element can be fixedly coupled to the pedal body.

[0018] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the third to eleventh aspects is configured such that the biasing member is disposed on the shaft. In the coupling unit according to the twelfth aspect, the biasing member can reliably bias the second coupling member toward the cleat holding position, and the biasing member remains connected to the rest of the coupling unit when the coupling unit is released from the pedal.

[0019] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the biasing member includes a plurality of springs operatively disposed between the first coupling member and the second coupling member. In the coupling unit according to the thirteenth aspect, the biasing member can reliably bias the second coupling member toward the cleat holding position with an appropriate biasing force.

[0020] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the thirteenth aspect is configured such that each of the plurality of springs includes a coil portion arranged on the shaft. In the coupling unit according to the fourteenth aspect, the coil portions of the springs exert a force on the shaft to reduce unintentional axial movement of the shaft relative to the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

[0021] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to any one of the third to fourteenth aspects further comprises a preload force adjuster arranged between the preload element and the second coupling element. In the coupling unit according to the fifteenth aspect, the preload force of the preload element can be individually adjusted by the user.

[0022] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the coupling unit according to the second aspect further comprises a biasing element that biases the second coupling element toward the cleat holding position. With the coupling unit according to the sixteenth aspect, the second coupling element can be reliably returned to the cleat holding position to secure the cleat after a cleat engagement operation and / or a cleat release operation of the cleat.

[0023] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a pedal comprises the coupling unit according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects, a pedal axle, and a pedal body. The pedal axle has a rotational center axis. The pedal body is rotatably mounted relative to the pedal axle to rotate about the rotational center axis. The coupling unit is attached to the pedal body.

[0024] In the pedal according to the seventeenth aspect, the coupling unit can be easily attached to the pedal body of the pedal.

[0025] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, a pedal comprises the coupling unit according to the second aspect, a pedal axle, and a pedal body. The pedal axle has a rotational center axis. The pedal body is rotatably mounted relative to the pedal axle to rotate about the rotational center axis. The coupling unit is attached to the pedal body.

[0026] In the pedal according to the eighteenth aspect, the coupling unit can be easily attached to the pedal body of the pedal.

[0027] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal according to the eighteenth aspect is configured such that the coupling unit further comprises a biasing element that biases the second coupling element toward the cleat holding position. In the pedal according to the nineteenth aspect, the second coupling element can be reliably returned to the cleat holding position to secure the cleat after a cleat engagement operation and / or a cleat release operation.

[0028] Further objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed coupling unit for a pedal assembly and the disclosed pedal will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the coupling unit and the pedal.

[0029] A more complete understanding of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) equipped with a pedal assembly including a pair of pedals each having a coupling unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is an overview of the human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle) that is connected to the Fig. 1, viewed from the front of the human-powered vehicle and taken along a longitudinal direction to show a center plane vertically bisecting a frame of the human-powered vehicle; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the Fig. 1, in which one of the pedals is coupled to a crank arm and a cleat is coupled to a bicycle shoe; Fig. 4 is a plan view of the Fig. 1 shows a pedal arrangement in accordance with the first embodiment; Fig. Figure 5 is a longitudinal section view of one of the pedals of the Fig. 4, in which the cleat is shown in dashed lines and the cleat is engaged with the coupling unit, wherein a second coupling element of the coupling unit is in a cleat holding position; Fig. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of the Fig. 5, wherein the cleat is shown in dashed lines and the cleat is released from the coupling unit, whereby the second coupling element of the coupling unit is released from the Fig. 5 shown cleat holding position into a cleat non-holding position; Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, in which the coupling unit has been detached from the pedal body; Fig. 8 is a perspective rear view of the Fig. 7 shown coupling unit; Fig. 9 is a perspective front view of the Fig. 8 shown coupling unit; Fig. 10 is a plan view of the Fig. Coupling unit shown in Figures 7 to 9; Fig. 11 is a floor plan view of the Fig. 7 to 10 shown coupling unit; Fig. 12 is a side view of the Fig. 7 to 11 shown coupling unit; Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the Fig. 7 to 12 shown coupling unit; Fig. 14 is a rear perspective view of a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft of the Fig. 7 to 13 shown coupling unit; Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the first coupling element, the second coupling element and the shaft of the Fig. 7 to 14, seen along the section line 15 - 15 of the Fig. 14; Fig. 16 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the first coupling element, the second coupling element and the Fig. 15 shown wave; Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view, similar to Fig. 15, a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a first modification; Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view, similar to Fig. 15 and Fig. 17, a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a second modification; Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view similar to the Fig. 15, Fig. 17 and Fig. 18, a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a third modification; Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view similar to that shown in Fig. 15 and 17 to 19, a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a fourth modification; Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view similar to the Fig. 15 and 17 to 20, a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a fifth modification; and Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view similar to the Fig. 15 and 17 to 21, a first coupling element, a second coupling element and a shaft for a coupling unit according to a sixth modification.

[0030] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. Those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) will appreciate from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0031] In Fig. 1 initially shows a human-powered vehicle V (e.g., a bicycle) equipped with a pedal assembly 10 according to a first embodiment. In other words, the pedal assembly 10 is designed for use with a human-powered vehicle V. For example, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle. In the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle V is, for example, an electric-assisted mountain bike (i.e., an off-road bicycle). Alternatively, the human-powered vehicle V can also be a road bicycle, a city bike, a cargo bike, a recumbent bicycle, or another type of off-road bicycle, for example, a cyclocross bicycle. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle V is not limited. The human-powered vehicle V includes, for example, a unicycle and a vehicle with three or more wheels.The human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle that is at least partially powered by human power and includes an electric drive to assist human performance. In particular, the human-powered vehicle of this disclosure does not include a vehicle that exclusively uses an internal combustion engine as motive power. More specifically, in the embodiments described below, the human-powered vehicle V is an electric-assisted bicycle (e-bike).

[0032] As in Fig. 1, the human-powered vehicle V includes a vehicle body equipped with a plurality of vehicle components. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle body includes a front frame body FFB and a rear frame body RFB (a swing arm) pivotally mounted on a rear portion of the front frame body FFB so that the rear frame body RFB can rotate with respect to the front frame body FFB. A rear wheel RW is fixed to the rear frame body RFB, and a front wheel FW is fixed to the front frame body FFB via a front suspension FS. A bicycle saddle S is fixed to the front frame body FFB via an adjustable seat post SP. A rear suspension RS is provided between the front frame body FFB and the rear frame body RFB to control the movement of the rear frame body RFB with respect to the front frame body FFB. Namely, the rear suspension RS is configured to absorb a shock applied to the rear wheel RW. The front suspension FS is pivotally mounted on a head tube of the front frame body FFB.The handlebar H is attached to an upper portion of a steering tube of the front suspension FS. The front suspension FS is designed to absorb a shock acting on the front wheel FW. The front wheel FW is attached to a lower end of the front suspension FS. The rear wheel RW is attached to a rear end of the rear frame body RFB.

[0033] The human-powered vehicle V further includes a drive train DT and a drive unit DU coupled to the drive train DT. The drive unit DU is also referred to as an electric assist unit. For example, the drive train DT is a chain drive that includes a crank C, a front sprocket FSP, a plurality of rear sprockets RSP, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crankshaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crankshaft CA1 is rotatably supported on the front frame body FFB via the electric assist unit DU. The crank arms CA2 are attached to the opposite ends of the crankshaft CA1. A pedal 12A is rotatably coupled to the distal end of one of the crank arms CA2, and a pedal 12B is rotatably coupled to the distal end of the other crank arm CA2. The pedal assembly 10 essentially includes the pedals 12A and 12B.The DT drivetrain is freely selectable and can be belt-driven or shaft-driven. The human-powered vehicle V also includes a front derailleur FD, which is attached to the front frame body FFB to shift the chain CN between the front sprockets FSP, and a rear derailleur RD, which is attached to the rear frame body RFB to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets RSP. The front derailleur FD and rear derailleur RD are a type of gear-changing device or transmission device for changing a gear ratio of the DT drivetrain.

[0034] The front sprocket FSP is attached to the crank C and rotates along with the crankshaft CA1. The rear sprockets RSP are located on a hub HR of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN runs around the front sprocket FSP and the rear sprockets RSP. A human drive force is applied by a driver or user of the human-powered vehicle V to the pedals 12A and 12B, so that the drive force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FSP, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets RSP.

[0035] The drive unit DU is operated to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle V in a conventional manner. The drive unit DU is operated, for example, in response to the human propulsion force acting on the pedals 12A and 12B. The drive unit DU includes an electric motor operatively coupled to the front sprocket FSP. The drive unit DU is driven by electric current supplied by a power supply PS.

[0036] In Fig. 2 is an outline of the human-powered vehicle V viewed from the front of the human-powered vehicle V and in the longitudinal direction, to show a center plane CP vertically bisecting the frame F of the human-powered vehicle V. The center plane CP passes through a center of the frame F in a width direction of the frame F. The center plane CP separates a left side from a right side of the human-powered vehicle V. The following directional terms “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “upward,” and “downward,” and any other similar directional terms refer to the directions determined based on a rider sitting upright on the seat S of the human-powered vehicle V facing the handlebar H of the human-powered vehicle V.

[0037] In the Fig. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, the pedal 12A of the pedal assembly 10 is a left pedal. The pedal 12A is attached to the crank arm CA2 on the left side of the human-powered vehicle V. The pedal assembly 10 also includes a pair of cleats 16 (only one shown). Each of the cleats 16 is attached to the underside of a shoe SC in a conventional manner, for example, with a plurality of fasteners (e.g., screws). Fig. 3, the pedal 12A includes a coupling unit 20 provided for the pedal assembly 10. The pedal 12A is thus a clipless pedal designed to releasably attach the cleat 16 to it by means of the coupling unit 20. In other words, the coupling unit 20 releasably couples the cleat 16 of the shoe SC to the pedal assembly 10.

[0038] Fig. 4 shows that the pedal assembly 10 includes both the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B. However, the pedal assembly 10 may also include only one of the pedals 12A and 12B with or without one of the cleats 16. In other words, the pedal assembly 10 includes at least one of the pedals 12A and 12B and optionally at least one of the cleats 16. As shown in Fig. 4, the pedal 12B is a right-hand pedal that includes a coupling unit 22 provided for the pedal assembly 10. The pedal 12A is thus a clipless pedal that is designed to releasably attach the cleat 16 to it by means of the coupling unit 22. As shown in Fig. 4, the pedal 12B is a mirror image of the pedal 12A. Therefore, the description of the pedal 12A applies to both a left and a right pedal of the human-powered vehicle V. Therefore, only one bicycle pedal is shown in the drawings and explained below.

[0039] Here, the pedal 12A also includes an additional coupling unit 24, which is mounted on a side of the pedal 12A opposite the coupling unit 20. The additional coupling unit 24 is designed to releasably attach the cleat 16 to the pedal 12A. The coupling unit 20 and the additional coupling unit 24 are structurally identical, and therefore, the description of the coupling unit 20 also applies to the additional coupling unit 24.

[0040] Likewise, the pedal 12B includes an additional coupling unit 26 mounted on a side of the pedal 12B opposite the coupling unit 22. The additional coupling unit 26 is configured to releasably attach the cleat 16 to the pedal 12B. The coupling unit 22 and the additional coupling unit 26 are structurally identical, and therefore, the description of the coupling unit 22 also applies to the additional coupling unit 26.

[0041] Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are double-sided kick pedals, meaning that the cleat 16 can be removably attached to either side of the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B. Therefore, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are specifically designed for use with off-road bicycles and not for use with a road bicycle. However, those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles will appreciate from this disclosure that the construction of the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B can be modified to constitute a road bicycle pedal as needed and / or desired. In other words, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B can be designed such that the cleat 16 can be coupled to only one side of the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B.

[0042] With reference to the Fig. 3 to 7, the pedal 12A basically comprises a pedal axle 30 and a pedal body 32. The pedal axle 30 has a rotational center axis RA. The pedal body 32 is rotatably supported with respect to the pedal axle 30 to rotate about the rotational center axis RA. The coupling unit 20 is attached to the pedal body 32. The additional coupling unit 26 is attached to the pedal body 32 with a plurality of fastening means 34 (for example, four screws) in the same manner as the coupling unit 20. An axial direction X1 of the pedal 12A refers to a direction parallel to the rotational center axis RA. A longitudinal center axis Y1 of the pedal 12A refers to a direction perpendicular to the rotational center axis RA and parallel to a reference plane PL that passes through the rotational center axis RA and bisects the pedal body 32.

[0043] The pedal axle 30 is a rigid member that rotatably supports the pedal body 32 in a conventional manner. The pedal axle 30 is preferably made of a hard, rigid material, such as a metallic material or a fiber-reinforced material. The pedal axle 30 has an externally threaded portion 36 and a support portion 38. The externally threaded portion 36 includes a left-hand thread configured to be screwed into the crank arm CA2 on the left side of the human-powered vehicle V. The support portion 38 serves to rotatably support the pedal body 32 via one or more bearings.

[0044] The pedal body 32 is a rigid body that is rotatably mounted on the pedal axle 30. The pedal body 32 is preferably made of a hard, rigid material, for example, metal or a fiber-reinforced material. The pedal body 32 includes an outer body portion 40, an inner body portion 41, a first body portion 42, a second body portion 43, and a middle body portion 44. The outer body portion 40 extends in the longitudinal direction Y1. The inner body portion 41 extends in the longitudinal direction Y1. The first body portion 42 extends in the axial direction X1. The second body portion extends in the axial direction X1. The middle body portion 44 is configured to receive the pedal axle 30 and extends in the axial direction X1.The middle body portion 44 is located between the outer body portion 40 and the inner body portion 41, and between the first body portion 42 and the second body portion 43. The outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, the second body portion 43, and the middle body portion 44 are integrally formed as a one-piece element. Preferably, as in the embodiment shown, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, and the second body portion 43 are connected to one another to form an annular shell for the tread. The middle body portion 44 is connected to the outer body portion 40 and the inner body portion 41 to divide the pedal body 32 into a first body portion and a second body portion.

[0045] The pedal body 32 has a first shoe support surface 45 and a second shoe support surface 46. The second shoe support surface 46 is opposite the first shoe support surface 45. The first shoe support surface 45 and the second shoe support surface 46 are formed by the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, the second body portion 43, and the middle body portion 44. The coupling unit 20 is attached to the first shoe support surface 45 at the middle body portion 44. The additional coupling unit 26 is attached to the second shoe support surface 46 at the middle body portion 44.

[0046] The central body portion 44 of the pedal body 32 includes a positioning profile 48. Preferably, as realized in the illustrated embodiment, the central body portion 44 of the pedal body 32 also includes another positioning profile 49. The positioning profile 48 and the positioning profile 49 are designed to cooperate with the coupling unit 20. The positioning profile 48 and the positioning profile 49 are separated from one another in the axial direction X1 on the central body portion 44 to form a free space therebetween for the coupling unit. The positioning profile 48 has a different profile than the positioning profile 49. For example, the positioning profile 48 has a first convex surface 48a and the positioning profile 49 has a second convex surface 49a. The first convex surface 48a has a smaller curvature than the second convex surface 49a.Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, both the first shoe storage surface 45 and the second shoe storage surface 46 on the central body portion 44 include the positioning profile 48 and the positioning profile 49. In this way, the coupling unit 20 and the additional coupling unit 24 can be coupled to the first shoe storage surface 45 and the second shoe storage surface 46 on the central body portion 44.

[0047] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the pedal 12B includes a pedal axle 50 and a pedal body 52. ​​The pedal axle 50 has a rotational center axis RB. The pedal body 52 is rotatably mounted relative to the pedal axle 50 to rotate about the rotational center axis RB. The coupling unit 22 and the additional coupling unit 26 are each detachably attached to the pedal body 52 by a plurality of fastening means (e.g., four screws). The coupling unit 22 and the additional coupling unit 26 are attached to the pedal body 52 in the same manner as the coupling unit 22. However, the coupling unit 22 and the additional coupling unit 26 are mirror images of the coupling unit 20 and the additional coupling unit 24. Consequently, the coupling unit 22 and the additional coupling unit 26 cannot be coupled to the pedal body 32, and the coupling unit 20 and the additional coupling unit 24 cannot be coupled to the pedal body 52.

[0048] The pedal axle 50 is identical to the pedal axle 30, except that the pedal axle 50 includes a right-hand thread designed to be screwed into the crank arm CA2 on the right side of the human-powered vehicle V. For the sake of clarity, the pedal axle 50 is therefore not further described here. The pedal body 52 is identical to the pedal body 32, except that the pedal body 52 is the mirror image of the pedal body 32 when the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are attached to the crank arms CA2. For the sake of clarity, the pedal body 52 is therefore not further described here.In the illustrated embodiment, the pedal body 52 is configured similarly to the pedal body 32 such that the coupling unit 22 is attached to a first shoe support surface on a central body portion of the pedal body 52 and the additional coupling unit 26 is attached to a second shoe support surface on the central body portion of the pedal body 52.

[0049] The coupling unit 20 will now be described with reference to the Fig. 7 to 14. The coupling unit 20 essentially comprises a first coupling element 60, a second coupling element 62, and a shaft 64. The first coupling element 60 is configured to be arranged on the pedal body 32 of the pedal assembly 10. The second coupling element 62 is coupled to the first coupling element 60. The first coupling element 60 is configured to releasably couple the cleat 16 to the coupling unit 20. The second coupling element 62 is configured to releasably couple the cleat 16 to the coupling unit 20. The second coupling element 62 is rotatable between a cleat-holding position and a cleat-non-holding position.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling unit 20 further includes a biasing member 66. The coupling unit 20 further includes a biasing force adjuster 68 disposed between the biasing member 66 and the second coupling member 62. The biasing member 66 biases the second coupling member 62 toward the cleat-holding position. The biasing force adjuster 68 adjusts the biasing force exerted by the biasing member 66 on the second coupling member 62. The biasing member 66 is disposed on the shaft 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 66 includes a plurality of springs 66A and 66B. The springs 66A and 66B are operatively disposed between the first coupling member 60 and the second coupling member 62. Each of the plurality of springs includes a coil portion disposed on the shaft 64.Specifically, the spring 66A includes a coil portion 66A1 disposed on the shaft 64, a first leg portion 66A2 extending from one end of the coil portion 66A1, and a second leg portion 66A3 extending from the other end of the coil portion 66A1. The first leg portion 66A2 couples with the first coupling member 60. The second leg portion 66A3 contacts the preload force adjuster 68. Similarly, the spring 66B includes a coil portion 66B1 disposed on the shaft 64, a first leg portion 66B2 extending from one end of the coil portion 66B1, and a second leg portion 66B3 extending from the other end of the coil portion 66B1. The first leg portion 66B2 couples to the first coupling element 60. The second leg portion 66B3 contacts the preload force adjuster 68.

[0051] The preload adjuster 68 essentially includes an adjusting screw 68a and an adjusting nut 68b. The adjusting screw 68a has a head portion that engages an opening in the second coupling member 62 and a threaded portion that is threadably coupled to the adjusting nut 68b. The second leg portions 66A3 and 66B3 contact the adjusting nut 68b. By rotating the adjusting screw 68a, the adjusting nut 68b moves along the threads of the adjusting screw 68a to either increase or decrease the preload force exerted by the springs 66A and 66B on the second coupling member 62. Since preload adjusters are well known in pedals, the preload adjuster 68 will not be described further here.

[0052] As in the Fig. 13, Fig. 15 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 16, the first coupling element 60 has a first opening 71 and a second opening 72. The second coupling element 62 has a third opening 73 and a fourth opening 74. The shaft 64 has a central axis A1. The central axis A1 defines an axial direction of the shaft 64. The shaft 64 has a first axial end 64a and a second axial end 64b opposite the first axial end 64a. The shaft 64 is arranged in the first opening 71, the second opening 72, the third opening 73, and the fourth opening 74 such that the second coupling element 62 is pivotable about the central axis A1. Specifically, the first coupling member 60 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 76, a second pedal-mounted portion 78, and a cleat engagement portion 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pedal-mounted portion 76 includes a first end portion 76a having the first opening 71.The second pedal-side mounted portion 78 includes a second end portion 78a with a second opening 72. The shaft 64 is located in the first opening 71 and the second opening 71.

[0053] The cleat engagement portion 80 connects the first pedal-side fixed portion 76 and the second pedal-side fixed portion 78. The cleat engagement portion 80 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 80 has a stop surface 80a and a retaining surface 80b. The stop surface 80a is a concave surface that limits the forward movement of the cleat 16 relative to the pedal body 32. The retaining surface 80b is a bottom surface that contacts a front end surface of the cleat 16 to limit the movement of the cleat 16 away from the pedal body 32.

[0054] Furthermore, the first coupling element 60 includes an outer portion 82 and an inner portion 84. Both the outer portion 82 and the inner portion 84 are curved toward each other. The curvature of the outer portion 82 differs from the curvature of the inner portion 84. In particular, the outer portion 82 includes an outer engagement recess 82a configured to engage the positioning profile 48 of the pedal body 32. The inner portion 84 includes an inner engagement recess 84a configured to engage another positioning profile 49 of the pedal body 32. The inner engagement recess 82a differs in shape from the outer engagement recess.

[0055] The second coupling element 62 is rotatable about the central axis A1 of the shaft 64. Essentially, the second coupling element 62 includes the third opening 73 and the fourth opening 74. The shaft 64 is disposed in the third opening 73 and the fourth opening 74. Specifically, the second coupling element 62 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 86, a second pedal-mounted portion 88, and a cleat engagement portion 90. The cleat engagement portion 80 is configured to engage with a rear portion of the cleat 16. In particular, the cleat engagement portion 90 of the second coupling element 62 includes a concave portion 92. The concave portion 92 is configured to abut the cleat 16 at least during the transition between the cleat-holding position and the cleat-unholding position.The concave portion 92 defines a stop surface that limits the rearward movement of the cleat 16 relative to the pedal body 32. In particular, the concave portion 92 has a first linear portion 92a, a second linear portion 92b, and an intermediate portion 92c. The intermediate portion 92c connects the first linear portion 92a and the second linear portion 92b. Basically, the first linear portion 92a, the second linear portion 92b, and the intermediate portion 92c define a concave surface. The cleat engagement portion 90 of the second coupling member 62 further includes a retaining surface 94, which is a bottom surface that contacts a rear end surface of the cleat 16 to limit the movement of the cleat 16 away from the pedal body 32.

[0056] In Fig. 15, the shaft 64 is preferably non-rotatably connected to either the first coupling element 60 or the second coupling element 62. For example, the shaft 64 is press-fitted into at least one of the first opening 71, the second opening 72, the third opening 73, and the fourth opening 74. In the first embodiment, the shaft 64 is press-fitted into the second opening 72 so that the shaft 64 is non-rotatably connected to the first coupling element 60. In the first embodiment, the shaft 64 is loosely fitted into the first opening 71, the third opening 73, and the fourth opening 74. This allows the second coupling element 62 to rotate about the shaft 64. In the first embodiment, the first opening 71 is located adjacent to the third opening 73 with respect to the axial direction defined by the central axis A1 of the shaft 64. The second opening 72 is located adjacent to the fourth opening 74 with respect to the axial direction.In particular, the first pedal-mounted portion 76 and the second pedal-mounted portion 78 are located between the first pedal-mounted portion 86 and the second pedal-mounted portion 88. Thus, the first opening 71 and the second opening 72 are located between the third opening 73 and the fourth opening 74. Alternatively, the first pedal-mounted portion 86 and the second pedal-mounted portion 88 may be arranged between the first pedal-mounted portion 76 and the second pedal-mounted portion 78. In this alternative, the third opening 73 and the fourth opening 74 may be arranged between the first opening 71 and the second opening 72.Of course, other arrangements of the first pedal-side-mounted section 76, the second pedal-side-mounted section 78, the first pedal-side-mounted section 86 and the second pedal-side-mounted section 88 are possible as needed and / or desired.

[0057] However, the connection between the shaft 64 and the first coupling element 60 and the second coupling element 62 can be established in various ways. Specifically, as in the first embodiment, the shaft 64 is press-fitted into the second opening 72 when the shaft 64 is loosely fitted into the first opening 71, the third opening 73, and the fourth opening 74.

[0058] In Fig. Figure 17 shows a coupling unit 120 according to a first modification. The coupling unit 120 essentially includes a first coupling element 160, the second coupling element 162, and a shaft 164. The first coupling element 160 is identical to the above-mentioned first coupling element 60, except that the connection of the shaft 164 to the first coupling element 160 and the second coupling element 162 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, the parts of the coupling unit 120 that are identical to the parts of the coupling unit 20 are not described or illustrated here for the sake of brevity.

[0059] The first coupling element 160 has a first opening 171 and a second opening 172. The second coupling element 162 has a third opening 173 and a fourth opening 174. The shaft 164 has a first axial end 164a and a second axial end 164b opposite the first axial end 164a. The shaft 164 is arranged in the first opening 171, the second opening 172, the third opening 173, and the fourth opening 174, so that the second coupling element 162 is rotatable about the central axis A1. Specifically, the first coupling member 160 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 176, a second pedal-mounted portion 178, and a cleat engagement portion 180. The first pedal-mounted portion 176 includes a first end portion 176a with the first opening 171. The second pedal-mounted portion 178 includes a second end portion 178a with the second opening 172.The cleat engagement portion 180 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 180 has a stop surface 180a and a retaining surface 180b similar to the cleat engagement portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 160 is identical to the first coupling member 60, except that the size of the first opening 171 and the size of the second opening 172 have been changed, as explained below.

[0060] Here, the second coupling element 162 is identical to the second coupling element 62. Similar to the second coupling element 62, the second coupling element 162 includes a first pedal-side attached portion 186 with the third opening 173, a second pedal-side attached portion 188 with the fourth opening 174, and a cleat engagement portion 190.

[0061] In the first modification, the shaft 164 is press-fitted into the first opening 171, so that the shaft 164 is non-rotatably connected to the first coupling member 160. In the first modification, the shaft 164 is loosely fitted into the second opening 172, the third opening 173, and the fourth opening 174. This allows the second coupling member 162 to rotate about the shaft 164. Of course, the shaft 164 can be press-fitted into the second opening 172. Accordingly, the shaft 164 is press-fitted into the first opening 171 when the shaft 164 is press-fitted into the second opening 172 or when the shaft 164 is loosely fitted into the second opening 172, the third opening 173, and the fourth opening 174.

[0062] In Fig. 18 shows a coupling unit 220 according to a second modification. The coupling unit 220 essentially includes a first coupling element 260, the second coupling element 262, and a shaft 264. The first coupling element 260 is identical to the first coupling element 60 described above; only the connection of the shaft 264 to the first coupling element 260 and the second coupling element 262 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, the parts of the coupling unit 220 that are identical to the parts of the coupling unit 20 are not described or illustrated here for the sake of brevity.

[0063] The first coupling element 260 has a first opening 271 and a second opening 272. The second coupling element 262 has a third opening 273 and a fourth opening 274. The shaft 264 has a first axial end 264a and a second axial end 264b opposite the first axial end 264a. The shaft 264 is arranged in the first opening 271, the second opening 272, the third opening 273, and the fourth opening 274, so that the second coupling element 262 is rotatable about the central axis A1. Specifically, the first coupling member 260 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 276, a second pedal-mounted portion 278, and a cleat engagement portion 280. The first pedal-mounted portion 276 includes a first end portion 276a with the first opening 271. The second pedal-mounted portion 278 includes a second end portion 278a with the second opening 272.The cleat engagement portion 280 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 280 has a stop surface 280a and a retaining surface 280b similar to the cleat engagement portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 260 is identical to the first coupling member 60, except that the size of the first opening 271 has been changed, as explained below.

[0064] The second coupling element 262 is identical to the second coupling element 62. Similar to the second coupling element 62, the second coupling element 262 includes a first pedal-side-mounted portion 286 with the third opening 273, a second pedal-side-mounted portion 288 with the fourth opening 274, and a cleat engagement portion 290.

[0065] In the second modification, the shaft 264 is pressed into the first opening 271 and the second opening 272, so that the shaft 264 is non-rotatably connected to the first coupling element 260. In the second modification, the shaft 264 is loosely fitted into the third opening 273 and the fourth opening 274. As a result, the second coupling element 262 can rotate about the shaft 264. Accordingly, the shaft 264 is pressed into the first opening 271 when the shaft 264 is pressed into the second opening 272 (second modification of Fig. 18) or when the shaft is loosely fitted into the second opening, the third opening and the fourth opening (first modification of Fig. 17).

[0066] In Fig. Figure 19 shows a coupling unit 320 according to a third modification. The coupling unit 320 essentially includes a first coupling element 360, a second coupling element 362, and a shaft 364. The first coupling element 360 is identical to the first coupling element 60 described above; only the connection of the shaft 364 to the first coupling element 360 and the second coupling element 362 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, the parts of the coupling unit 320 that are identical to the parts of the coupling unit 20 are not described or illustrated here for the sake of brevity.

[0067] The first coupling element 360 has a first opening 371 and a second opening 372. The second coupling element 362 has a third opening 373 and a fourth opening 374. The shaft 364 has a first axial end 364a and a second axial end 364b opposite the first axial end 364a. The shaft 364 is arranged in the first opening 371, the second opening 372, the third opening 373, and the fourth opening 374 such that the second coupling element 362 is rotatable about the central axis A1. Specifically, the first coupling member 360 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 376, a second pedal-mounted portion 378, and a cleat engagement portion 380. The first pedal-mounted portion 376 includes a first end portion 376a with the first opening 371. The second pedal-mounted portion 378 includes a second end portion 378a with the second opening 372.The cleat engagement portion 380 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 380 has a stop surface 380a and a retaining surface 380b similar to the cleat engagement portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 360 is identical to the first coupling member 60, except that the size of the first opening 371 and the size of the second opening 372 have been changed, as explained below.

[0068] Here, the second coupling element 362 is identical to the second coupling element 62, except that the size of the fourth opening 374 has been changed, as described below. Similar to the second coupling element 62, the second coupling element 362 includes a first pedal-side-mounted portion 386 with the third opening 373, a second pedal-side-mounted portion 388 with the fourth opening 374, and a cleat-engaging portion 390.

[0069] In the third modification, the shaft 364 is press-fitted into the fourth opening 374, so that the shaft 364 is non-rotatably connected to the second member 362. In the third modification, the shaft 364 is loosely fitted into the first opening 371, the second opening 372, and the third opening 373. This allows the second coupling member 362 to rotate about the shaft 364. Accordingly, the shaft 364 is pressed into the fourth opening 374 when the shaft 364 is loosely fitted into the first opening 371, the second opening 372, and the third opening 373.

[0070] In Fig. 20 shows a coupling unit 420 according to a fourth modification. The coupling unit 420 essentially includes a first coupling element 460, a second coupling element 462, and a shaft 464. The first coupling element 460 is identical to the first coupling element 60 described above; only the connection of the shaft 464 to the first coupling element 460 and the second coupling element 462 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the parts of the coupling unit 420 that are identical to the parts of the coupling unit 20 are not described or illustrated here.

[0071] The first coupling element 460 has a first opening 471 and a second opening 472. The second coupling element 462 has a third opening 473 and a fourth opening 474. The shaft 464 has a first axial end 464a and a second axial end 464b opposite the first axial end 464a. The shaft 464 is arranged in the first opening 471, the second opening 472, the third opening 473, and the fourth opening 474 such that the second coupling element 462 is rotatable about the central axis A1. Specifically, the first coupling member 460 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 476, a second pedal-mounted portion 478, and a cleat engagement portion 480. The first pedal-mounted portion 476 includes a first end portion 476a with the first opening 471. The second pedal-mounted portion 478 includes a second end portion 478a with the second opening 472.The cleat engagement portion 480 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 480 has a stop surface 480a and a retaining surface 480b similar to the cleat engagement portion 80. Here, the first coupling element 460 is identical to the first coupling element 60, except that the size of the second opening 472 has been changed, as explained below.

[0072] Here, the second coupling element 462 is identical to the second coupling element 62, except that the size of the third opening 473 has been changed, as explained below. Similar to the second coupling element 62, the second coupling element 462 includes a first pedal-side-mounted portion 486 with the third opening 473, a second pedal-side-mounted portion 488 with the fourth opening 474, and a cleat-engaging portion 490.

[0073] In the fourth modification, the shaft 464 is press-fitted into the third opening 473, so that the shaft 464 is non-rotatably connected to the second coupling member 462. In the fourth modification, the shaft 464 is loosely fitted into the first opening 471, the second opening 472, and the fourth opening 474. This allows the second coupling member 462 to rotate about the shaft 464. Accordingly, the shaft 464 is press-fitted into the third opening 473 when the shaft 464 is press-fitted into the fourth opening 474, or when the shaft 464 is loosely press-fitted into the first opening 471, the second opening 472, and the fourth opening 474.

[0074] In Fig. 51 shows a coupling unit 520 according to a fifth modification. The coupling unit 520 essentially includes a first coupling element 560, a second coupling element 562, and a shaft 564. The first coupling element 560 is identical to the first coupling element 60 described above, except that the connection of the shaft 564 to the first coupling element 560 and the second coupling element 562 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, the parts of the coupling unit 520 that are identical to the parts of the coupling unit 20 are not described or illustrated here for the sake of brevity.

[0075] The first coupling element 560 has a first opening 571 and a second opening 572. The second coupling element 562 has a third opening 573 and a fourth opening 574. The shaft 564 has a first axial end 564a and a second axial end 564b opposite the first axial end 564a. The shaft 564 is arranged in the first opening 571, the second opening 572, the third opening 573, and the fourth opening 574 such that the second coupling element 562 is rotatable about the central axis A1. Specifically, the first coupling member 560 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 576, a second pedal-mounted portion 578, and a cleat engagement portion 580. The first pedal-mounted portion 576 includes a first end portion 576a with the first opening 571. The second pedal-mounted portion 578 includes a second end portion 578a with the second opening 572.The cleat engagement portion 580 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 580 has a stop surface 580a and a retaining surface 580b similar to the cleat engagement portion 80. Here, the first coupling member 560 is identical to the first coupling member 60, except that the size of the second opening 572 has been changed, as explained below.

[0076] Here, the second coupling element 562 is identical to the second coupling element 62, except that the size of the third opening 573 and the size of the fourth opening 574 have been changed, as explained below. Similar to the second coupling element 62, the second coupling element 562 includes a first pedal-side-mounted portion 586 with the third opening 573, a second pedal-side-mounted portion 588 with the fourth opening 574, and a cleat-engaging portion 590.

[0077] In the fifth modification, the shaft 64 is press-fitted into the third opening 573 and the fourth opening 574, so that the shaft 564 is non-rotatably coupled to the second coupling member 562. In the fifth modification, the shaft 564 is loosely fitted into the first opening 571 and the second opening 572. This allows the second coupling member 562 to rotate about the shaft 564.

[0078] In Fig.Figure 19 shows a coupling unit 620 according to a sixth modification. The coupling unit 620 essentially includes a first coupling element 660, a second coupling element 662, and a shaft 664. The first coupling element 660 is identical to the first coupling element 60 described above; only the connection of the shaft 664 to the first coupling element 660 and the second coupling element 662 is different from the first embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the parts of the coupling unit 620 that are identical to the parts of the coupling unit 20 are not described or illustrated here.

[0079] The first coupling element 660 has a first opening 671 and a second opening 672. The second coupling element 662 has a third opening 673 and a fourth opening 674. The shaft 664 has a first axial end 664a and a second axial end 664b opposite the first axial end 664a. The shaft 664 is arranged in the first opening 671, the second opening 672, the third opening 673, and the fourth opening 674 such that the second coupling element 662 is rotatable about the central axis A1. More specifically, the first coupling member 660 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 676, a second pedal-mounted portion 678, and a cleat engagement portion 680. The first pedal-mounted portion 676 includes a first end portion 676a with the first opening 671. The second pedal-mounted portion 678 includes a second end portion 678a with the second opening 672.The cleat engagement portion 680 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 16. In particular, the cleat engagement portion 680 has a stop surface 680a and a retaining surface 680b similar to the cleat engagement portion 80. The first coupling member 660 is identical to the first coupling member 60, except that the size of the second opening 672 has been changed, as explained below.

[0080] Here, the second coupling element 662 is identical to the second coupling element 62. Similar to the second coupling element 62, the second coupling element 662 also includes a first pedal-side-mounted portion 686 with the third opening 673, a second pedal-side-mounted portion 688 with the fourth opening 674, and a cleat engagement portion 690.

[0081] In the sixth modification, the shaft 664 is loosely fitted into the first opening 671, the second opening 672, the third opening 673, and the fourth opening 674. Here, both the first axial end 664a and the second axial end 664b are crimped to one of the two coupling elements 660 and 662.

[0082] To understand the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other, unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, the terms "including," "having," and their derivatives. Also, the terms "part," "section," "portion," "component," or "element," when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise specified.

[0083] As used herein, the following directional terms: "frame-facing side," "non-frame-facing side," "forward," "backward," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "above," "below," "above," "below," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "perpendicular," and "across," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to the directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with the coupling unit. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe the pedal and / or the coupling unit are to be understood with respect to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the pedal.The terms “left” and “right” refer to “right” when viewed from the right side of the rear of the human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle), and to “left” when viewed from the left side of the rear of the human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle).

[0084] The phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of a desired selection. For example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "both of two selections" when the number of selections is two. For example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "any combination of equal to or more than two selections" when the number of selections is three or more. Also, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "either one or both." For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B.The term "at least one of A, B and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C and (7) all of A, B and C. In other words, the phrase "at least one of A and B" in this disclosure does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B".

[0085] Although the terms "first" and "second" are used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component described above could be referred to as a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0086] The term "attached" or "attach," as used herein, includes configurations in which one element is directly attached to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly attached to the other element by attaching the element to intermediate element(s) that are in turn attached to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integrated with another element, that is, one element is substantially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "bonded," "attached," and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, imply a variation of the modified term such that the end result is not substantially changed.

[0087] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless expressly stated otherwise, the size, shape, location, or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, as long as the changes do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless expressly stated otherwise, components that are directly connected or capable of being brought into contact with one another may include intermediate structures, as long as the changes do not substantially affect their intended function. The functions of one element may be performed by two elements and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise.The structures and functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment. It is not necessary that all advantages be present in a particular embodiment. Any embodiment that, alone or in combination with other embodiments, differs from the prior art should also be considered a separate description of applicant's other inventions, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by those embodiments. The foregoing descriptions of the embodiments of the present invention are therefore intended to be illustrative only and not limitative of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. REFERENCE SYMBOL 10 Pedal arrangement 12A, 12B Pedal 16 cleat 20,22 coupling unit 24,26 Additional coupling unit 30 pedal axle 32 pedal body 34 fasteners 36 external thread section 38 support section 40 Outer body section 41 Inner body section 42 First body section 43 Second body section 44 Middle body section 45 First shoe storage area 46 Second shoe storage area 48,49 Positioning profile 48a First convex surface 49a Second convex surface 50 pedal axle 52 pedal body 60 First coupling element 62 Second coupling element 64 Wave 64a First axial end 64b Second axial end 66 Preload element 66A, 66B spring 66A1, 66B1 winding section 66A2, 66B2 First leg section 66A3, 66B3 Second leg section 68 Preload adjuster 68a Adjusting screw 68b Adjusting nut 71 First opening 72 Second opening 73 Third Opening 74 Fourth Opening 76, 86 First pedal-side fixed cut 76a First end section 78, 88 Second pedal-side fixed section 78a Second end section 80.90 Cleat engagement section 80a stop surface 80b holding surface 82 Outer Section 82a Outer engagement recess 84 Inner Section 84a Inner engagement recess 92 Concave section 92a First linear section 92b Second linear section 92c Intermediate section 120 coupling unit 160 First coupling element 162 Second coupling element 164 Wave 164a First axial end 164b Second axial end 171 First opening 172 Second Opening 173 Third Opening 174 Fourth Opening 176 First pedal-side fixed cut 176a First end section 178 Second pedal-side fixed section 178a Second end section 180 cleat engagement section 180a stop surface 180b holding surface 186 First pedal-side fixed cut 188 Second pedal-side fixed section 220 coupling unit 260 First coupling element 262 Second coupling element 264 Wave 264a First axial end 264b Second axial end 271 First opening 272 Second Opening 273 Third Opening 274 Fourth Opening 276 First pedal-side fixed cut 276a First end section 278 Second pedal-side fixed section 278a Second end section 280 Cleat engagement section 280a stop surface 280b holding surface 286 First pedal-side fixed cut 288 Second pedal-side fixed section 320 coupling unit 360 First coupling element 362 Second coupling element 364 Wave 364a First axial end 364b Second axial end 371 First opening 372 Second Opening 373 Third Opening 374 Fourth Opening 376 First pedal-side fixed cut 376a First end section 378 Second pedal-side fixed section 378a Second end section 380 cleat engagement section 380a stop surface 380b holding surface 386 First pedal-side fixed cut 388 Second pedal-side fixed section 420 coupling unit 460 First coupling element 462 Second coupling element 464 Wave 464a First axial end 464b Second axial end 471 First opening 472 Second Opening 473 Third Opening 474 Fourth Opening 476 First pedal-side fixed cut 476a First end section 478 Second pedal-side fixed section 478a Second end section 480 Cleat engagement section 480a stop surface 480b holding surface 486 First pedal-side fixed cut 488 Second pedal-side fixed section 520 coupling unit 560 First coupling element 562 Second coupling element 564 Wave 564a First axial end 564b Second axial end 571 First opening 572 Second Opening 573 Third Opening 574 Fourth Opening 576 First pedal-side fixed cut 576a First end section 578 Second pedal-side fixed section 578a Second end section 580 Cleat engagement section 580a stop surface 580b holding surface 586 First pedal-side fixed cut 588 Second pedal-side fixed section 620 coupling unit 660 First coupling element 662 Second coupling element 664 Wave 664a First axial end 664b Second axial end 671 First opening 672 Second Opening 673 Third Opening 674 Fourth Opening 676 First pedal-side fixed cut 676a First end section 678 Second pedal-side fixed section 678a Second end section 680 Cleat engagement section 680a stop surface 680b holding surface 686 First pedal-side fixed cut 688 Second pedal-side fixed section A1 central axis C crank CA1 crankshaft CA2 crank arms CN chain CP Middle Level DT drivetrain DU drive unit F frame FFB Front frame body FS Front Suspension FSP front sprocket FW front wheel H handlebar RA rotation center axis RB rotation center axis RFB Rear frame body RD rear derailleur RSP rear suspension RSP rear sprocket RW rear wheel S Seat / Saddle SH shoe SP Adjustable Seatpost V Human-powered vehicle X1 Axial direction Y1 Longitudinal direction

Claims

[1] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520) for a pedal assembly (10) designed for use with a human-powered vehicle (V), wherein the coupling unit releasably couples a shoe plate (16) of a shoe (SH) to the pedal assembly (10), wherein the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520) comprises: a first coupling element (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560) designed to detachably couple the shoe plate (16) to the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520), the first coupling element (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560) is designed to be arranged on a pedal body (32, 52) of the pedal arrangement (10), the first coupling element (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560) has a first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571) and a second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572); a second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562) which is designed to detachably couple the cleat (16) to the coupling unit (10), the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562) is rotatable between a cleat holding position and a cleat non-holding position, the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562) is coupled to the first coupling element (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560), the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562) has a third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573) and a fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574); and a shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) with a central axis (A1), the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is arranged in the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571), the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572), the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573) and the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574) such that the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562) is rotatable about the central axis (A1), the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into at least the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571), the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572), the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573) or the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574), wherein the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571) when the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572), or when the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is loosely fitted into the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572), the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573) and the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574), the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572) when the shaft is loosely fitted into the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571), the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573) and the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574), the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573) when the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574), or when the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is loosely inserted into the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571), the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572) and the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574) is fitted, and the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is pressed into the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574) when the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564) is loosely fitted into the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571), the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572) and the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573). [2] Coupling unit (620) for a pedal assembly (10) provided on a human-powered vehicle (V), wherein the coupling unit (620) detachably couples a shoe plate (16) of a shoe (SH) to the pedal assembly (10), wherein the coupling unit (620) comprises: a first coupling element (660) configured to releasably couple the cleat (16) to the coupling unit (620), the first coupling element (660) is configured to be arranged on a pedal body (32) of the pedal assembly (10), the first coupling element (660) has a first opening (671) and a second opening (672); a second coupling element (662) configured to releasably couple the cleat (16) to the coupling unit (620), the second coupling element (662) being pivotable between a cleat holding position and a cleat non-holding position, the second coupling element (662) being coupled to the first coupling element (660), the second coupling element (662) having a third opening (673) and a fourth opening (674); and a shaft (664) having a central axis (A1), the shaft (664) being arranged in the first opening (671), the second opening (672), the third opening (673) and the fourth opening (674) such that the second coupling element (662) is rotatable about the central axis (A1), the shaft (664) has a first axial end (664a) and a second axial end (664b) opposite the first axial end (664a), both the first axial end (664a) and the second axial end (664b) are fastened to the first coupling element (660) or the second coupling element (662) with crimp connections. [3] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a biasing element (66) which biases the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662) towards the cleat holding position. [4] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling element (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660) includes an outer portion (82) and an inner portion (84), and both the inner portion (84) and the outer portion (82) are curved towards each other. [5] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to claim 4, wherein a curvature of the inner portion (84) differs from a curvature of the outer portion (82). [6] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the outer portion (82) includes an outer engagement recess (82a) designed to engage a positioning profile (48, 49) of the pedal body (32), and the inner portion (84) includes an inner engagement recess (84a) configured to engage another positioning profile (48, 49) of the pedal body (32). [7] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to claim 6, wherein the inner engagement recess (84a) is different from the outer engagement recess (82a). [8] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first opening (71, 171, 271, 371, 471, 571, 671) is arranged adjacent to the third opening (73, 173, 273, 373, 473, 573, 673) with respect to an axial direction (X1) defined by the central axis (A1) of the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664), and the second opening (72, 172, 272, 372, 472, 572, 672) is adjacent to the fourth opening (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574, 674) with respect to the axial direction (X1). [9] Coupling unit (220) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shaft (264) is pressed into the first opening (271) and the second opening (272). [10] Coupling unit (520) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shaft (564) is pressed into the third opening (573) and the fourth opening (574). [11] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first coupling element (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660) has a first pedal-side attached portion (76, 86, 176, 186, 276, 286, 376, 386, 476, 486, 576, 586, 676, 686), a second pedal-side attached portion (78, 88, 178, 188, 278, 288, 378, 388, 478, 488, 578, 588, 678, 688), and a cleat engagement portion (80, 90, 180, 280, 380, 480, 580, 680) connecting the first pedal-side mounted portion (76, 86, 176, 186, 276, 286, 376, 386, 476, 486, 576, 586, 676, 686) and the second pedal-side mounted portion (78, 88, 178, 188, 278, 288, 378, 388, 478, 488, 578, 588, 678, 688). [12] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to one of claims 3 to 11, wherein the biasing element (66) is arranged on the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664). [13] The coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) of claim 12, wherein the biasing member (66) includes a plurality of springs (66A, 66B) operatively disposed between the first coupling member (60, 160, 260, 360, 460, 560, 660) and the second coupling member (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662). [14] The coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) of claim 13, wherein each of the plurality of springs (66A, 66B) includes a coil portion (66A1, 66B1) disposed on the shaft (64, 164, 264, 364, 464, 564, 664). [15] Coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to one of claims 3 to 14, further comprising a preload force adjuster (68) arranged between the preload element (66) and the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662). [16] The coupling unit (620) of claim 2, further comprising a biasing member (66) biasing the second coupling member (662) toward the cleat holding position. [17] Pedal (12A, 12B) comprising: the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to one of claims 1 to 16; a pedal axle (30, 50) with a rotational center axis (RA, RB); and a pedal body (32, 52) which is rotatably mounted with respect to the pedal axis (30, 50) so that it rotates about the central axis of rotation (RA, RB), wherein the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) is fastened to the pedal body (32, 52). [18] Pedal (12A, 12B) comprising: the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) according to claim 2; a pedal axle (30, 50) with a central axis of rotation (RA, RB); and a pedal body (32, 52) which is rotatably mounted with respect to the pedal axis (30, 50) so that it rotates about the central axis of rotation (RA, RB), wherein the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) is fastened to the pedal body (32, 52). [19] Pedal (12A, 12B) according to claim 18, wherein the coupling unit (20, 22, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620) further comprises a biasing element (66) that biases the second coupling element (62, 162, 262, 362, 462, 562, 662) toward the cleat holding position.

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