PEDAL ARRANGEMENT FOR A HUMAN-PROPELLED VEHICLE

Abstract

A pedal assembly 10 is provided for a human-powered vehicle V. The pedal assembly 10 comprises a pedal axle 22 and a pedal body 20. The pedal axle 22 has a rotational center axis RA, which defines an axial direction X1. The pedal body 20 has a first shoe rest 24 and a second shoe rest 26, which is opposite the first shoe rest 24. Both the first shoe rest 24 and the second shoe rest 26 are designed such that a plurality of pedal components, which differ from one another, can be selectively attached to each of the first shoe rest 24 and the second shoe rest 26. The plurality of pedal components includes at least one cleat coupling unit 14.

Description

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a pedal assembly for a human-powered vehicle. More specifically, the present invention relates to a pedal assembly configured to have at least one pedal component coupled thereto.

[0002] A pedal typically includes a pedal axle and a pedal body. The pedal axle is configured to be attached to a crank of a human-powered vehicle. The pedal body is rotatably mounted on the pedal axle. Pedals are often designed for a specific purpose, such as comfort, recreational cycling, off-road cycling, road racing, sports, etc., or for a user's preferences. Some pedals include a pedal component that prevents a rider's foot from slipping off the pedal and / or improves pedaling efficiency. For example, some pedals include a cleat coupling unit configured to removably engage a cleat attached to the sole of a user's shoe. Some pedals include a toe clip. In other pedals, the pedal body is provided with a friction pad and / or spike pins.

[0003] In general, the present invention relates to various features of a pedal assembly for a human-powered vehicle. As used herein, the term "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle that can be driven at least by human motive power to generate propulsion, but does not include a vehicle that uses only motive power other than human power. In particular, a vehicle that uses an internal combustion engine exclusively as motive power is not considered a human-powered vehicle. The human-powered vehicle is typically a compact, lightweight vehicle that sometimes does not require a driver's license to drive on public roads. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a unicycle and a vehicle with three or more wheels.The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, 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 prior art and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a pedal assembly for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The pedal assembly basically comprises a pedal body and a pedal axle. The pedal axle has a rotational center axis defining an axial direction. The pedal body has a first shoe-supporting surface and a second shoe-supporting surface opposite the first shoe-supporting surface. Both the first shoe-supporting surface and the second shoe-supporting surface are configured such that a plurality of different pedal components are selectively attachable to each of the first shoe-supporting surface and the second shoe-supporting surface. The plurality of pedal components includes at least one cleat coupling unit.

[0005] With the pedal arrangement according to the first aspect, it is possible to adapt the pedal body to the preferences of a user.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the first aspect is configured such that the pedal body includes a plurality of mounting holes extending through the pedal body from the first shoe-supporting surface to the second shoe-supporting surface. With the pedal assembly according to the second aspect, the structure for attaching the pedal components to either the first shoe-supporting surface or the second shoe-supporting surface can be simplified.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the first or second aspect is configured such that the pedal body includes an inner body portion, an outer body portion, a first body portion extending in the axial direction, a second body portion extending in the axial direction, and an intermediate body portion configured to receive the pedal axle and extending in the axial direction. The intermediate body portion is positioned between the outer body portion and the inner body portion and between the first body portion and the second body portion. The first shoe support surface and the second shoe support surface are defined by the outer body portion, the inner body portion, the first body portion, the second body portion, and the intermediate body portion.With the pedal assembly according to the third aspect, the pedal body can be formed with a sufficient shoe support surface for supporting a user's shoe.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the third aspect is configured such that the first body portion and the second body portion are free of a cleat engagement portion. With the pedal assembly according to the fourth aspect, the cleat coupling unit can be relatively compact and lightweight.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the third aspect or the fourth aspect is configured such that the outer body portion, the inner body portion, the first body portion, and the intermediate body portion define a first opening. The outer body portion, the inner body portion, the second body portion, and the intermediate body portion define a second opening. The first opening is opposite the second opening with respect to the intermediate body portion. With the pedal assembly according to the fifth aspect, the pedal body can be relatively lightweight.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to any one of the third to fifth aspects is configured such that the intermediate body portion includes the plurality of mounting holes extending through the pedal body from the first shoe support surface to the second shoe support surface. With the pedal assembly according to the sixth aspect, the pedal components can be reliably supported on the pedal body.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the plurality of mounting holes includes a pair of first mounting holes on a first side of the intermediate body portion. With the pedal assembly according to the seventh aspect, the pedal components can be positioned at least partially on a first side of the intermediate body portion.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the seventh aspect is configured such that the plurality of mounting holes includes a pair of second mounting holes on a second side of the intermediate body portion. The second side is opposite the first side. With the pedal assembly according to the eighth aspect, the pedal components can be positioned at least partially on a second side of the intermediate body portion.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the eighth aspect is configured such that the first mounting holes are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction by a first distance. The second mounting holes are spaced apart from the first mounting holes in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction by a second distance different from the first distance. With the pedal assembly according to the ninth aspect, the pedal components can be securely attached to the pedal body in the axial direction and in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the second distance is smaller than the first distance. With the pedal assembly according to the tenth aspect, the pedal components can be securely attached to the pedal body near the pedal axis.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the ninth or tenth aspect is configured such that the second mounting holes are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction by the first distance. With the pedal assembly according to the eleventh aspect, the pedal components can be further securely attached to the pedal body in the axial direction.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to any one of the third to eleventh aspects is configured such that at least one of the outer body portion, the inner body portion, the first body portion, and the second body portion includes at least one third mounting hole formed on the pedal body from the first shoe-supporting surface toward the second shoe-supporting surface. With the pedal assembly according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to attach a pedal component to at least one of the outer body portion, the inner body portion, the first body portion, and the second body portion.

[0017] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the at least one third mounting hole includes a plurality of third mounting holes. With the pedal assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, the pedal component can be easily and reliably attached to the pedal body.

[0018] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to any one of the third to thirteenth aspects is configured such that at least one of the outer body portion, the inner body portion, the first body portion, and the intermediate body portion includes a first positioning profile disposed on the first shoe support surface and a second positioning profile disposed on the second shoe support surface. With the pedal assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, the pedal component can be easily and correctly positioned on the pedal body.

[0019] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the fourteenth aspect is configured such that at least one of the outer body portion, the inner body portion, the second body portion, and the intermediate body portion includes a third positioning profile disposed on the first shoe support surface and a fourth positioning profile disposed on the second shoe support surface. With the pedal assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the pedal component can be easily and correctly positioned on the pedal body.

[0020] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects further comprises the plurality of pedal components. With the pedal assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, the pedal components can be selectively attached to the pedal body as needed and / or desired in accordance with a user's preferences.

[0021] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured such that the cleat coupling unit includes a first coupling element, a second coupling element, and a biasing element, wherein the second coupling element is pivotable between a cleat holding position and a cleat non-holding position. The biasing element biases the second coupling element toward the cleat holding position. With the pedal assembly according to the seventeenth aspect, a cleat can be easily and reliably attached to the pedal body via the cleat coupling unit.

[0022] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the plurality of pedal components includes a toe clip. With the pedal assembly according to the eighteenth aspect, a toe clip can be attached to the pedal body.

[0023] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the sixteenth or eighteenth aspect is configured such that the plurality of pedal components includes a friction pad. With the pedal assembly according to the nineteenth aspect, a friction pad can be attached to the pedal body.

[0024] According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the friction pad includes a first pad part and a second pad part. The second pad part is a separate piece from the first pad part. With the pedal assembly according to the twentieth aspect, the friction pad can be easily attached to the pedal body.

[0025] According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the sixteenth aspect and any one of the eighteenth to twentieth aspects is configured such that the plurality of pedal components includes a plurality of spike pins. With the pedal assembly according to the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to attach spike pins to the pedal body to improve the grip of the pedal to a shoe sole.

[0026] According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the twenty-first aspect is configured such that each of the spike pins includes a protrusion portion and a mounting portion. With the pedal assembly according to the twenty-second aspect, the spike pins can be easily mounted to the pedal body.

[0027] According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the twenty-first or twenty-second aspect is configured such that each of the spike pins includes a first protrusion portion, a second protrusion portion, and an attachment portion. The attachment portion has a first axial end portion and a second axial end portion opposite the first axial end portion. The first protrusion portion is coupled to the first axial end portion of the attachment portion. The second protrusion portion is coupled to the second axial end portion of the attachment portion. With the pedal assembly according to the twenty-third aspect, the spike pins have protrusions on each side of the pedal body.

[0028] According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the pedal assembly according to the sixteenth aspect and any one of the eighteenth to twenty-third aspects is configured such that the plurality of pedal components includes at least a pair of cleat coupling units, a toe clip, a friction pad, and a plurality of spike pins. With the pedal assembly according to the twenty-fourth aspect, it is possible to selectively couple one or more of the cleat coupling units, a toe clip, a friction pad, and a plurality of spike pins to the pedal body according to a user's preference.

[0029] Further objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed pedal assembly 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 pedal assembly.

[0030] Selected embodiments of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the drawings that form a part of this original disclosure, wherein: Fig. 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) equipped with a pair of pedal assemblies according to a first embodiment of the present invention, including a pair of coupling units; Fig. 2 is an outline of the human-powered vehicle (for example, a bicycle) associated with the Fig. 1, viewed from the front of the human-powered vehicle and 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 pedal assembly including a plurality of pedal components, such as a cleat coupling unit, a toe clip, a friction pad, and a plurality of spike pins that can be replaced and selectively attached to the pedal by a dealer and / or user to customize the pedal in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 4 a top view of the pedal of the Fig. 3, where the adapters have been omitted; Fig. 5 a plan view of the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is the Peda with the adapters installed; Fig. 6 a perspective view of the Fig. 1, in which a pair of cleat coupling units are attached to the pedal, the pedal is coupled to one of the crank arms, and a cleat is coupled to a bicycle shoe; Fig. 7 a plan view of the pedal arrangement with the Fig. 6 shown cleat coupling units; Fig. 8 a plan view from below of the Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 is the pedal arrangement shown; Fig. 9 a partial cross-sectional view of the Fig. 4 shown pedal arrangement along the section line 9 - 9 of Fig. 7 is; Fig. 10 a partial cross-sectional view of the Fig. 4 shown pedal arrangement along the section line 10-10 of Fig. 7 is; Fig. 11 a perspective view of the Fig. 6 to 8, in which one of the coupling units is arranged to be attached to the pedal body; Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the pedal assembly from above, in which the toe clamp is attached by means of the adapters to the Fig. 5 shown pedal body was attached; Fig. 13 a plan view of the Fig. 12 is the pedal arrangement shown; Fig. 14 a plan view from below of the Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 is the pedal arrangement shown; Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the Fig. 12 to 14; Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the pedal assembly from above, in which a friction pad is attached by means of the adapters to the Fig. 5 shown pedal body; Fig. 17 a plan view of the Fig. 16 is the pedal arrangement shown; Fig. 18 a plan view from below of the Fig. 16 and Fig. 17 is the pedal arrangement shown; Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the Fig. 16 to 18; Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the pedal assembly from above, in which a plurality of spike pins are mounted on the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 is attached to the pedal body shown; Fig. 21 is a perspective view from below of the pedal assembly with the spike pins attached to the pedal body, as in Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 shown; Fig. 22 a cross-sectional view of the Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 shown pedal body along the section line 22 - 22 of Fig. 20, in which the spike pin is shown in elevation; Fig. 23 a cross-sectional view, similar to Fig. 22, of the pedal body, but with the spike pin shown in cross section; Fig. 24 a cross-sectional view, similar to Fig. 22, of the pedal body, but with a single-sided spike pin installed and shown in elevation; and Fig. 25 a cross-sectional view, similar to Fig. 24, of the pedal body, but with the one-sided spike pin shown in cross-section.

[0031] Those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) will appreciate from this disclosure that the following descriptions of embodiments of the present invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0032] In Fig. 1, a human-powered vehicle V (e.g., a bicycle) is shown, which is equipped with a pedal assembly 10 according to a first embodiment. In other words, the pedal assembly 10 is intended for the human-powered vehicle V. The human-powered vehicle V is, for example, a bicycle. In the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle V is 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 bicycle, a cargo bicycle, a recumbent bicycle, or another type of off-road bicycle, such as 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.Here, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle that at least partially uses human power as the driving force for locomotion and includes an electric drive unit that assists the human power. In particular, a vehicle powered exclusively by an internal combustion engine does not fall within the scope of the human-powered vehicle of this disclosure. Specifically, the human-powered vehicle V in the embodiments described below is an electric-assisted bicycle (e-bike).

[0033] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the human-powered vehicle V includes a frame F that is equipped with a variety of vehicle components. As shown in Fig. 1, the frame F has a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (a swingarm) pivotally mounted to a rear portion of the front frame body FB so that the rear frame body RB can pivot with respect to the front frame body FB. A rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear frame body RB, and a front wheel FW is mounted to the front frame body FB via a front suspension FS. A bicycle seat or saddle S is adjustably mounted to the front frame body FB via an adjustable seat post SP. A rear suspension is provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control movement of the rear frame body RB with respect to the front frame body FB. Namely, the rear suspension is configured to absorb a shock applied to the rear wheel RW. The front suspension FS is pivotally mounted to a head tube of the front frame body FB.A handlebar H is mounted at the upper end 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 mounted at a lower end of the front suspension FS. The rear wheel RW is mounted at a rear end of the rear frame body RB.

[0034] 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. Here, the drive train DT is, for example, a chain drive that includes a crank C, a front pinion FSP, a plurality of rear pinions RSP, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank axle CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crank axle CA1 is rotatably supported on the front frame body FB via the electric assist unit DU. The crank arms CA2 are provided at opposite ends of the crank axle CA1.

[0035] 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 of the crank arms CA2. The pedal assembly 10 basically includes the pedals 12A and 12B. The drive train DT can be selected from any type and can be a belt drive or a shaft drive. The human-powered vehicle V further includes a rear derailleur RD mounted on the rear frame body RB for shifting the chain CN between the rear sprockets RSP. The rear derailleur RD is a type of gear change device or transmission device for changing a gear ratio of the drive train DT.

[0036] The front pinion FSP is provided on the crank C to rotate along with the crank axle CA1. The rear pinions RSP are provided on a hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN runs around the front pinion FSP and the rear pinions RSP. A driver or user of the human-powered vehicle V applies human driving force to the pedals 12A and 12B, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front pinion FSP, the chain CN, and the rear pinions RSP.

[0037] 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, depending on the human driving force applied to the pedals 12A and 12B. The drive unit DU includes an electric motor coupled to the front pinion FSP. The drive unit DU is driven by electrical energy supplied by a power supply PS.

[0038] In Fig. 2, an outline of the human-powered vehicle V is shown as viewed from the front and longitudinal directions to show a center plane CP vertically bisecting the frame F of the human-powered vehicle V. The center plane CP passes through the 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 while facing the handlebar H of the human-powered vehicle V.

[0039] Back to Fig. 1: In the illustrated embodiment, pedal 12A of pedal assembly 10 is a left pedal. Pedal 12B of pedal assembly 10 is a right pedal. Thus, pedal 12A is provided on crank arm CA2 on the left side of human-powered vehicle V, and pedal 12B is provided on crank arm CA2 on the right side of human-powered vehicle V.

[0040] As in Fig. 3 and further described below, the pedal 12A is configured so that a retailer and / or a user can easily adjust the pedal 12A. Therefore, the pedal assembly 10 further includes a plurality of pedal components. More specifically, the pedal 12A is configured so that the plurality of pedal components can be selectively coupled thereto as needed and / or desired to customize the pedal 12A. For example, the plurality of pedal components includes at least one cleat coupling unit 14. The one or two cleat coupling units 14 can be attached to the pedal 12A to form a step-in pedal. The plurality of pedal components also include, for example, a toe clip 15. The toe clip 15 can be attached to the pedal 12A to form a clip-in pedal. The plurality of pedal components also include, for example, a friction pad 16.The friction pad 16 may be attached to one or both sides of the pedal 12A to form a flat pedal. Furthermore, the plurality of pedal components includes, for example, a plurality of spike pins 17. The spike pins 17 may be attached to the pedal 12A to form a flat spike pedal.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 3, Fig. 6, Fig. 12, Fig. 16 and Fig. 20, the plurality of pedal components includes at least a pair of cleat coupling units 14, the toe clamp 15, the friction pad 16, and the plurality of spike pins 17. As shown in the Fig. 6 to 8, the plurality of pedal components includes, for example, the cleat coupling unit 14. As shown in the Fig. 12 to 15, the variety of pedal components includes, for example, the toe clamp 15. As shown in the Fig. 16 to 18, the plurality of pedal components also includes the friction pad 16 (see Fig. 11 to 18). As in the Fig. 19 to 25, the plurality of pedal components further includes the spike pins 17.

[0042] Although only one of the plurality of pedal components 14, 15, 16, and 17 is shown as being attached to the pedal 12A, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that two or more of the plurality of pedal components 14, 15, 16, and 17 may be attached to the pedal 12A at the same time. For example, the cleat coupling unit 14 may be attached to one side of the pedal 12A, while the toe clamp 15 or friction pad 16 is attached to the other side of the pedal 12A. Also, for example, the friction pad 16 and the spike pins 17 may both be attached to one and / or both sides of the pedal 12A.

[0043] Pedal 12B is further configured so that a dealer and / or user can customize pedal 12B in the same manner as pedal 12A. More specifically, pedal 12B is configured so that a variety of pedal components can be selectively coupled thereto as needed and / or desired. Pedals 12A and 12B are identical except as explained below. Therefore, the description of pedal 12A also applies to pedal 12B unless otherwise noted. For brevity, only pedal 12A is described and illustrated in detail here.

[0044] Here, as in Fig. 1, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are configured as clipless pedals. However, as explained below, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are modular pedals that can be adapted to a variety of configurations by a retailer or user. In the case where the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are configured as clipless pedals, the pedal assembly 10 includes a cleat coupling unit 14. The cleat coupling unit 14 is configured to removably engage a cleat 18 that is attached to the bottom of a shoe SH in a conventional manner, for example, by a plurality of fasteners (e.g., screws). Here, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are configured as double-sided clipless pedals. Thus, the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B each include a pair of cleat coupling units 14 when the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B are configured as double-sided clipless pedals.However, as explained further below, the cleat coupling units 14 can be selectively removed from the pedal 12A and the pedal 12B as needed and / or desired. The cleat coupling units 14 can be replaced with other pedal components or used in conjunction with one or more other pedal components as needed and / or desired.

[0045] Basically, the pedal 12A of the pedal assembly 10 comprises a pedal body 20 (see Fig. 3 to 5). The pedal 12A of the pedal assembly 10 further includes a pedal axle 22. The pedal axle 22 has a rotational center axis RA. The pedal body 20 is rotatably mounted with respect to the pedal axle 22 to rotate about the rotational center axis RA. The plurality of pedal components are configured to be selectively attached to the pedal body 20. As shown in the Fig. 3 to 5, the plurality of pedal components includes, for example, at least the cleat coupling unit 14. In a first configuration of the pedal 12A, two of the cleat coupling units 14 are attached to the pedal body 20. However, it will be appreciated from this disclosure that one or both of the cleat coupling units 14 may be removed and replaced with another pedal component. As explained later, the plurality of pedal components may include one or two of the cleat coupling units 14 (see Fig. 6 to 8), the toe clamp 15 (see Fig. 11 to 15), one or two of the friction pads 16 (see Fig. 16 to 19) and one or more of the spike pins 17 (see Fig. 20 to 25).

[0046] The pedal axle 22 is a rigid member that rotatably supports the pedal body 20 in a conventional manner. The pedal axle 22 is preferably made of a hard, rigid material such as a metallic material or a fiber-reinforced material. The pedal axle 22 has an externally threaded section 22a and a support section 22b. The externally threaded section 22a 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 section 22b serves to rotatably support the pedal body 20 via one or more bearings. In the case of the pedal axle of the pedal 12B, the pedal axle has an externally threaded section with a right-hand thread.

[0047] The pedal body 20 is a rigid member rotatably supported on the pedal axle 22. The pedal body 20 is preferably made of a hard, rigid material such as a metallic material or a fiber-reinforced material. The pedal body 20 has a first shoe support surface 24 and a second shoe support surface 26 opposite the first shoe support surface 24. As described further below, both the first shoe support surface 24 and the second shoe support surface 26 are configured such that a plurality of different pedal components can be selectively attached to each of the first shoe support surface 24 and the second shoe support surface 26. Here, the first shoe support surface 24 and the second shoe support surface 26 are substantially identical.

[0048] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the pedal body 20 preferably includes at least one adapter receiving portion 28. The pedal assembly 10 further comprises at least one adapter 30. Basically, the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 is configured to receive the at least one adapter 30 that engages with at least one fastener 32 so that a variety of different pedal components can be mounted to the pedal body 20 through the at least one adapter 30. In other words, the pedal assembly 10 further comprises the at least one adapter 30. The at least one adapter 30 is non-rotatably coupled to the at least one adapter receiving portion 28. In particular, the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 has a non-circular shape that corresponds to an outer shape of the at least one adapter 30. In this way, the at least one adapter 30 is non-rotatably coupled to the at least one adapter receiving portion 28.Preferably, the non-circular shape includes an oval shape, a D-shape, a polygonal shape, or a quadrant shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the non-circular shape of the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 is a D-shape, and the non-circular shape of the at least one adapter 30 is a D-shape. Furthermore, the pedal assembly 10 further includes the at least one fastening element 32 releasably coupled to the at least one adapter 30. In this manner, the plurality of pedal components are configured to be selectively coupled to the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 of the pedal body 20 by means of the at least one fastening element 32.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 includes a plurality of adapter receiving portions 28. Thus, the at least one adapter 30 includes a plurality of adapters 30. Each of the plurality of adapter receiving portions 28 is configured to receive at least one of the plurality of adapters 30. Preferably, the adapters 30 are press-fitted into the adapter receiving portions 28. The adapters 30 can be made of the same material as the adapter receiving portions 28 or of a different material than the adapter receiving portions 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 includes a first adapter receiving portion 28A and a second adapter receiving portion 28B. The first adapter receiving portion 28A is configured to receive at least a first adapter 30A from the at least one adapter 30.The second adapter receiving portion 28B is configured to receive at least one second adapter 30B from the at least one adapter 30.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one adapter receiving portion 28 includes a plurality of mounting holes 34. The plurality of mounting holes 34 extend completely through the pedal body 20 from the first shoe support surface 24 of the pedal body 20 to the second shoe support surface 26 of the pedal body 20. Each of the plurality of mounting holes 34 is configured to receive an adapter from the at least one adapter 30. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the first adapter receiving portion 28A has a pair of first mounting holes 34A among the plurality of mounting holes 34. The second adapter receiving portion 34B has a pair of second mounting holes 34B among the plurality of mounting holes 34.In this case, the first adapter receiving portion 28A is configured to receive a pair of the first adapters 30A, and the second adapter receiving portion 28B is configured to receive a pair of the second adapters 30B.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the at least one adapter 30 has a first shoe storage side opening 36A configured to receive a first fastening element 32A from the at least one fastening element 32, and a second shoe storage side opening 36B configured to receive a second fastening element 32B from the at least one fastening element 32. The first shoe storage side opening 36A is positioned on the first shoe storage surface 24. The second shoe storage side opening 36B is positioned on the second shoe storage surface 26.

[0052] As in Fig. 9 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the first mounting holes 34A extend completely through the pedal body 20 from the first shoe support surface 24 to the second shoe support surface 26. The second mounting holes 34B extend completely through the pedal body 20 from the first shoe support surface 24 to the second shoe support surface 26. One of the plurality of adapters 30 is disposed in each of the pair of first mounting holes 34A and the pair of second mounting holes 34B. Here, the first mounting holes 34A receive the first adapters 30A, and the second mounting holes 34B receive the second adapters 30B.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one fastening element 32 includes the plurality of fastening elements 32. As previously mentioned, the fastening elements 32 specifically include the first fastening element 32A and the second fastening element 32B. The first fastening element 32A and the second fastening element 32B are all identical and can be interchanged. Depending on the pedal component being attached to the pedal body 20, some of the first fastening element 32A and / or the second fastening element 32B may not be used.

[0054] As in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the plurality of fastening elements 32 include a first protrusion 32a1 and a second protrusion 32b1. The first protrusion 32a1 is configured to limit movement of the at least one adapter 30 in a first direction Z1 with respect to the at least one adapter receiving portion 28. The second protrusion 32b1 is configured to limit movement of the at least one adapter 30 in a second direction Z2 with respect to the at least one adapter receiving portion 28. The second direction Z2 is different from the first direction Z1. Here, the first protrusions 32a1 are provided by the first fastening elements 32A and the second protrusions 32b1 are provided by the second fastening elements 32B. More specifically, the first fastening elements 32A are each screws, in which the first protrusion 32a1 corresponds to a head portion of the screw.Likewise, the second fastening elements 32B are each screws in which the second projection 32b1 corresponds to a head portion of the screw.

[0055] As in the Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the adapter 30 includes an adapter body 38. The adapter body 38 has at least one threaded hole 38a. The at least one threaded hole 38a is configured to engage with at least one fastening element 32. The adapter body 38 has a non-circular shape in a cross-sectional view. The non-circular shape of the adapter body 38 corresponds to a non-circular shape of the adapter receiving portion 28 of the pedal body 20 of the pedal assembly 10. As shown in Fig. 11, the adapter body 38 in the illustrated embodiment has a D-shape in cross-section, and the mounting holes 34 of the adapter receiving portion 28 also have a D-shape in cross-section.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the pedal assembly 10 includes the plurality of adapters 30. The pedal body 20 also includes the plurality of mounting holes 34. Preferably, the plurality of mounting holes 34 extend through the pedal body 20 from the first shoe storage surface 24 to the second shoe storage surface 26. The plurality of adapters 30 are disposed within the plurality of mounting holes 34 such that at least one pedal component can be mounted to the pedal body 20 through the plurality of adapters 30. The adapter 30 is provided for the pedal assembly 10 configured to be used with a human-powered vehicle 10. The adapter 30 is configured to be received in the adapter receiving portion 28 of the pedal body 20 of the pedal assembly 10.

[0057] Back to the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5: The pedal body 20 includes an outer body portion 40, an inner body portion 41, a first body portion 42, a second body portion 43, and an intermediate body portion 44. The first body portion 42 extends in an axial direction X1. The second body portion 43 extends in the axial direction X1. The intermediate body portion 44 is configured to receive the pedal axle 22 and extends in the axial direction X1. The axial direction X1 of the pedal 12A refers to a direction parallel to the rotational center axis RA. The outer body portion 40 extends in a longitudinal direction Y1. The longitudinal direction 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 20. 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 43 extends in the axial direction X1. The intermediate body portion 44 is configured to receive the pedal spindle 22 and extends in the axial direction X1. The intermediate body portion 44 is positioned 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. Here, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, the second body portion 43, and the intermediate body portion 44 are integrally formed as a one-piece member. Preferably, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, and the second body portion 43 are connected to each other, as in the illustrated embodiment, to form an annular tread cage.The intermediate body portion 44 is connected to the outer body portion 40 and the inner body portion 41 to divide the pedal body 20 into the first body portion 42 and the second body portion 43.

[0058] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the first shoe storage surface 24 and the second shoe storage surface 26 are defined by the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, the second body portion 43, and the intermediate body portion 44. The at least one adapter receiving portion 28 is provided on the intermediate body portion 44. Preferably, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, and the intermediate body portion 44 define a first opening 46. Furthermore, preferably, the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the second body portion 43, and the intermediate body portion 44 define a second opening 48. The first opening 46 is opposite the second opening 48 with respect to the intermediate body portion 44.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of mounting holes 34 includes a pair of first mounting holes 34A on a first side of the intermediate body portion 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of mounting holes 34 also includes a pair of second mounting holes 34B on a second side of the intermediate body portion 44. The second side is opposite the first side. The first mounting holes 34A are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X1 by a first distance D1. The second mounting holes 34B are spaced apart from the first mounting holes 34A in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction X1 by a second distance D2 that is different from the first distance D1. In this embodiment, which is shown in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the second distance D2 is smaller than the first distance D1. The second mounting holes 34B are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X1 by the first distance D1.

[0060] As in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the cleat coupling units 14 are attached to the first shoe support surface 24 and the second shoe support surface 26 at the intermediate body portion 44. In particular, the intermediate body portion 44 includes the plurality of mounting holes 34 extending through the pedal body 20 from the first shoe support surface 24 to the second shoe support surface 26. On the other hand, the first body portion 42 and the second body portion 43 are devoid of a cleat engagement portion.

[0061] As in the Fig. 7 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, at least one of the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, and the intermediate body portion 44 includes a first positioning profile 51 disposed on the first shoe support surface 24 and a second positioning profile 52 disposed on the second shoe support surface 26. Here, the intermediate body portion 44 includes the first positioning profile 51 disposed on the first shoe support surface 24 and the second positioning profile 52 disposed on the second shoe support surface 26.Preferably, at least one of the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the second body portion 43, and the intermediate body portion 44 includes a third positioning profile 53 disposed on the first shoe support surface 24 and a fourth positioning profile 54 disposed on the second shoe support surface 26. Here, the intermediate body portion 44 includes the third positioning profile 53 disposed on the first shoe support surface 24 and the fourth positioning profile 54 disposed on the second shoe support surface 26.

[0062] The first positioning profile 51 and the third positioning profile 53 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X1 on the intermediate body portion 44 to form a coupling unit receiving space therebetween for receiving the cleat coupling unit 14. The first positioning profile 51 and the third positioning profile 53 are configured to engage with the cleat coupling unit 14 when the cleat coupling unit 14 is attached to the first shoe support surface 24.

[0063] The second positioning profile 52 and the fourth positioning profile 54 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X1 on the intermediate body portion 44 to form a coupling unit receiving space therebetween for receiving the cleat coupling unit 14. The second positioning profile 52 and the fourth positioning profile 54 are configured to engage with the cleat coupling unit 14 when the cleat coupling unit 14 is attached to the second shoe support surface 26.

[0064] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, at least one of the outer body portion 40, the inner body portion 41, the first body portion 42, and the second body portion 43 includes at least one third mounting hole 58 formed on the pedal body 20 from the first shoe support surface 24 toward the second shoe support surface 26. Here, the at least one third mounting hole 58 includes a plurality of third mounting holes 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the third mounting holes 58 are formed in the outer body portion 40 and the inner body portion 41. More specifically, the outer body portion 40 has four of the third mounting holes 58, and the inner body portion 41 has two of the third mounting holes 58. Of course, the third mounting holes 58 may also be provided on the first body portion 42 and / or the second body portion 43.Additionally, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the third mounting holes 58 may be provided in a pattern other than the pattern shown.

[0065] The cleat coupling unit 14 is now positioned with reference to the Fig. 7 to 11. The cleat coupling unit 14 essentially includes a first coupling element 60 and a second coupling element 62. The first coupling element 60 is configured to be attached to the pedal body 20 of the pedal assembly 10. The second coupling element 62 is coupled to the first coupling element 60. In particular, the cleat coupling unit 14 further includes a shaft 64. The second coupling element 62 is pivotally coupled to the first coupling element 60 via the shaft 64. In particular, the second coupling element 62 is pivotable between a cleat-holding position and a cleat-non-holding position. The cleat coupling unit 14 further includes a biasing element 66. The biasing element 66 biases the second coupling element 62 toward the cleat-holding position.

[0066] The first coupling element 60 is configured to releasably couple the cleat 18 to the cleat coupling unit 14. The second coupling element 62 is configured to releasably couple the cleat 18 to the cleat coupling unit 14. The second coupling element 62 is pivotable between a cleat holding position and a cleat non-holding position.

[0067] The cleat coupling unit 14 further includes a preload adjuster 68 disposed between the preload member 66 and the second coupling member 62. The preload member 66 biases the second coupling member 62 toward the cleat-holding position. The preload adjuster 68 adjusts the preload force exerted by the preload member 66 on the second coupling member 62. The preload member 66 is disposed on the shaft 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the preload 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 spiral portion disposed on the shaft 64, a first leg portion extending from one end of the spiral portion, and a second leg portion extending from the other end of the spiral portion. The springs 66A and 66B are configured such that the first leg portions contact the first coupling member 60, while the second leg portions contact the preload adjuster 68.

[0068] The preload adjuster 68 basically includes an adjustment screw and an adjustment nut. The adjustment screw has a head portion that engages an opening in the second coupling member 62 and a threaded shaft that is threadably connected to the adjustment nut. The second leg portions of the springs 66A and 66B contact the adjustment nut. By rotating the adjustment screw, the adjustment nut moves along the threaded shaft of the adjustment screw 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.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 7 to 11, the cleat coupling unit 14 is attached to the pedal body 20 by four of the fasteners 32 (32A) screwed into four of the adapters 30 (30A). In the illustrated embodiment, the cleat coupling unit 14 can be mounted either on the first shoe support surface 24 of the pedal body 20, or the cleat coupling unit 14 can be mounted on the second shoe support surface 26 of the pedal body 20. Furthermore, a pair of the cleat coupling units 14 can be attached to the pedal body 20. More specifically, the first coupling member 60 includes a first pedal-mounted portion 71, a second pedal-mounted portion 72, and a cleat engagement portion 73. Furthermore, the first coupling member 60 includes an outer portion 74 and an inner portion 75. Both the outer portion 74 and the inner portion 75 are bent toward each other.In particular, the outer portion 74 includes an outer engagement recess 74a configured to engage the positioning profile 51 or 52 of the pedal body 20. The inner portion 75 includes an inner engagement recess 75a configured to engage the positioning profile 53 or 54 of the pedal body 20.

[0070] The cleat engagement portion 73 connects the first pedal-mounted portion 71 and the second pedal-mounted portion 72. The cleat engagement portion 73 is configured to engage a front end of the cleat 18. Specifically, the cleat engagement portion 73 is configured to abut the cleat 18 to limit movement of the cleat 18 away from the pedal body 20 and to limit forward movement of the cleat 18 relative to the pedal body 20.

[0071] The second coupling member 62 is pivotable about the shaft 64. The second coupling member 62 includes a cleat engagement portion 76. The cleat engagement portion 76 is configured to engage a rear end of the cleat 18. In particular, the cleat engagement portion 76 is configured to abut the cleat 18 to limit movement of the cleat 18 away from the pedal body 20 and to limit rearward movement of the cleat 18 relative to the pedal body 20.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 11 to 15, the toe clip 15 is attached to the pedal body 20 by two of the fasteners 32 (32A) that are screwed into two of the adapters 30 (30A). In the illustrated embodiment, the toe clip 15 is mounted to the first shoe support surface 24 of the pedal body 20. However, the toe clip 15 may alternatively be attached to the second shoe support surface 26 of the pedal body 20 in the same manner. Here, the toe clip 15 includes a cage portion 80 and a mounting portion 82. Preferably, the cage portion 80 is adjustably attached to the mounting portion 82 to adjust the position of the cage portion 80 relative to the pedal body 20. The cage portion 80 is attached to the mounting portion 82, for example, with a fastener 84 (e.g., a screw and a nut). As shown in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 15, the cage portion 80 is provided with an opening 80a, and the mounting portion 82 is provided with an elongated slot 82a. The fastener 84 is guided through the opening 80a and the elongated slot 82a. The position of the cage portion 80 relative to the pedal body 20 can be adjusted by sliding the cage portion 80 relative to the mounting portion 82 and then tightening the fastener 84 once the cage portion 80 is in the desired position. As shown in Fig. 14, optionally a plate 86 may be mounted on the opposite side of the pedal body with four of the fasteners 32 (32B) screwed into four of the adapters 30 (30B).

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 16 to 19, the friction pad 16 is attached to the pedal body 20 by four of the fasteners 32 (32A) that are screwed into four of the adapters 30 (30A). In the illustrated embodiment, the friction pad 16 is mounted to the first shoe support surface 24 of the pedal body 20. However, the friction pad 16 may alternatively be attached to the second shoe support surface 26 of the pedal body 20 in the same manner. Here, the friction pad 16 includes a first pad part 90 and a second pad part 92. The second pad part 92 is a separate piece from the first pad part 90. The first pad part 90 is configured to completely cover the first opening 46 when the first pad part 90 is attached to the pedal body 20. The second pad part 92 is configured to completely cover the second opening 48 when the second pad part 92 is attached to the pedal body 20.

[0074] The first pad member 90 includes a shoe contact surface 90a and a pedal body-facing surface 90b. The shoe contact surface 90a is preferably provided with a plurality of protrusions to improve traction. The pedal body-facing surface 90b is provided with a retaining element 90c (e.g., a tab) configured to engage an opening 42a in the first body portion 42 of the pedal body 20. The first pad member 90 is attached to the intermediate body portion 44 by the first fasteners 32A with the first adapters 30A. The retaining element 90c is disposed in the opening 42a and contacts the first body portion 42 of the pedal body 20 to hold the first pad member 90 to the first body portion 42. Similarly, the second pad member 92 includes a shoe contact surface 92a and a pedal body-facing surface 92b.The shoe contact surface 92a is preferably provided with a plurality of protrusions to improve traction. The pedal body-facing surface 92b is provided with a retaining element 92c (e.g., a tab) configured to engage an opening 43a in the second body portion 43 of the pedal body 20. The second pad member 92 is attached to the intermediate body portion 44 by the first fastening elements 32A with the second adapters 30B. The retaining element 92c is disposed in the opening 43a and contacts the second body portion 43 of the pedal body 20 to hold the first pad member 92 to the second body portion 43.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in the Fig. 20 to 25, the spike pins 17 include a plurality of first spike pins 17A and a plurality of second spike pins 17B. The first spike pins 17A are double-sided spike pins that protrude from both sides of the pedal body 20. The second spike pins 17B are single-sided spike pins that protrude from only one side of the pedal body 20. The first spike pins 17A and the second spike pins 17B are selectively attached to the pedal body 20 via the third holes 58. While in the Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 only shows the first spike pins 17A, the first spike pins 17A and the second spike pins 17B can also be used together if necessary and / or desired. Typically, however, only the first spike pins 17A or only the second spike pins 17B are used with the pedal 12A.

[0076] Preferably, each of the spike pins 17 includes a projection portion 94 and an attachment portion 96. In the case of the first spike pins 17A, more preferably, each of the spike pins 17A includes a first projection portion 94a, a second projection portion 94b, and the attachment portion 96. In the case of the second spike pins 17B, however, each of the second spike pins 17B includes a first projection portion 94a and the attachment portion 96. Thus, the second spike pins 17B do not have a second projection portion 94b.

[0077] The attachment portion 96 has a first axial end portion 96a and a second axial end portion 96b opposite the first axial end portion 96a. The first protrusion portion 94a is coupled to the first axial end portion 96a of the attachment portion 96. The second protrusion portion 94b is coupled to the second axial end portion 96b of the attachment portion 96. In the case of the first spike pins 17A, the first axial end portion 96a and the second axial end portion 96b are nuts that are threadedly connected to the protrusion portion 94. In the case of the first spike pins 17A, the attachment portion 96 also includes a spacer element 96c (e.g., a sleeve) disposed over a central portion of the protrusion portion 94.In the second spike pins 17B, the first axial end portion 96a is a nut screwed to the boss portion 94, while the second axial end portion 96b is a head portion formed integrally with the boss portion 94.

[0078] The first spike pins 17A and the second spike pins 17B are attached to the pedal body 20 via the third holes 58. More specifically, each of the third holes 58 includes a first hole portion 58a, a second hole portion 58b, and a third hole portion 58c. The first hole portion 58a is configured to receive the first axial end portion 96a (e.g., a nut) in a state where the spike pin 17 is disposed in one of the third holes 58. The third hole portion 58c is configured to receive the second axial end portion 96b (e.g., a nut) in a state where the spike pin 17 is disposed in one of the third holes 58. In the case of the first spike pins 17A, the third hole portion 58c also receives the spacer member 96c (e.g., a sleeve).

[0079] The first hole portion 58a has a hexagonal cross section configured to engage with the first axial end portion 96a (e.g., a nut) so that the first axial end portion 96a does not rotate in the third hole 58 when the spike pin 17 is disposed in the first hole portion 58a of one of the third holes 58. On the other hand, the third hole portion 58c has a cylindrical cross section configured to allow rotation of the second axial end portion 96b (e.g., a nut) in a state where the spike pin 17 is disposed in the third hole portion 58c of one of the third holes 58. The second hole portion 58b has a smaller cross-sectional width than the first hole portion 58a and the third hole portion 58c. Thus, a first stop surface is formed between the first hole portion 58a and the second hole portion 58b.In this way, the axial inward movement of the first axial end portion 96a (e.g., a nut) within the first hole portion 58a is limited by the first stop surface. Furthermore, a second stop surface is formed between the second hole portion 58b and the third hole portion 58c. In this way, the axial inward movement of the second axial end portion 96c (e.g., a nut) within the third hole portion 58c is limited by the second stop surface.

[0080] For the purpose of understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open-ended terms that specify the presence of 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 similar in meaning to the terms "include," "have," and their derivatives. Also, the terms "part," "section," "portion," or "element," when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise noted.

[0081] As used herein, the directional terms "frame-side," "non-frame-side," "forward," "backward," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "over," "under," "upward," "downward," "lateral," "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 pedal assembly. Accordingly, these directional terms, as used to describe the pedal assembly, should 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 assembly.The terms "left" and "right" are used to mean "right" when referring to the right side as viewed from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle), and "left" when referring to the left side as viewed from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle).

[0082] 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. As another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "any combination of at least two selections" when the number of selections is at least three. Also, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "either one or both of." For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B.The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all 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."

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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 integral with another element, that is, one element is substantially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, such as "connected," "attached," "coupled," "mounted," "bonded," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately," as used herein, imply a variation of the modified term such that the end result is not substantially changed.

[0085] 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, arrangement, or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, as long as the changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless expressly stated otherwise, components that are directly connected or in contact with one another may have intermediate structures, as long as the changes do not materially 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 feature that, alone or in combination with other features, stands out from the prior art should also be considered a separate description of other inventions of the applicant, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by that feature(s). The foregoing descriptions of the embodiments of the present invention are therefore only illustrative and not limitative of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. REFERENCE SYMBOL 10 Pedal arrangement 12A, 12B Pedal 14 Cleat coupling unit 15 Toe clamp 16 Friction pad 17 Spike pin 17A first spike pin 17B second spike pin 18 Cleat 20 pedal bodies 22 Pedal axle 22a External thread section 22b Support section 24 first shoe storage area 26 second shoe storage area 28 Adapter receiving section 28A first adapter receiving section 28B second adapter receiving section 30 adapters 30A first adapter 30B second adapter 32 Fastening element 32a1 first lead 32b1 second lead 32A first fastening element 32B second fastening element 34 mounting hole 34A first mounting hole 34B second mounting hole 36A Opening of the first shoe storage side 36B Opening of the second shoe storage side 38 adapter bodies 38a threaded hole 40 outer body section 41 inner body section 42 first body section 42a Opening 43 second body section 43a Opening 44 intermediate body section 46 first opening 48 second opening 51 first positioning profile 52 second positioning profile 53 third positioning profile 54 fourth positioning profile 58 third mounting hole 58a first hole section 58b second hole section 58c third hole section 60 first coupling element 62 second coupling element 64 Wave 66 Preload element 66A, 66B spring 68 Preload adjuster 71 first pedal-mounted section 72 second pedal-mounted section 73 Cleat engagement section 74 outer section 74a outer engagement recess 75 inner section 75a inner engagement recess 76 Cleat engagement section 80 cage section 80a opening 82 Assembly section 82a elongated slot 84 fasteners 86 plate 90 first pad part 90a Shoe contact area 90b surface facing the pedal body 90c holding element 92 second pad part 92a Shoe contact surface 92b Surface facing the pedal body 92c retaining element 94 projection section 94a first projection section 94b second projection section 96 Attachment section 96a first axial end section 96b second axial end section 96c spacer element C crank CA1 crank axle CA2 crank arm CN chain CP Middle Level D1 first distance D2 second distance DT drivetrain DU drive unit F frame FB front frame body FS front suspension FSP front sprocket FW front wheel H handlebar PL reference plane PS power supply RA rotation center axis RB rear frame body / swing arm RD rear derailleur RSP rear pinion RW rear wheel S bicycle seat / saddle SH shoe SP adjustable seat post V human-powered vehicle X1 axial direction Y1 longitudinal direction Z1 first direction Z2 second direction

Claims

[1] Pedal assembly (10) for a human-powered vehicle (V), the pedal assembly (10) comprising: a pedal axle (22) having a rotational center axis (RA) defining an axial direction (X1); and a pedal body (20) having a first shoe-supporting surface (24) and a second shoe-supporting surface (26) opposite the first shoe-supporting surface (24), wherein both the first shoe-supporting surface (24) and the second shoe-supporting surface (26) are configured such that a plurality of pedal components different from one another can be selectively attached to each of the first shoe-supporting surface (24) and the second shoe-supporting surface (26), wherein the plurality of pedal components includes at least one cleat coupling unit (14). [2] The pedal assembly (10) of claim 1, wherein the pedal body (20) includes a plurality of mounting holes (34) extending through the pedal body (20) from the first shoe support surface (24) to the second shoe support surface (26). [3] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 1, wherein the pedal body (20) includes an inner body portion (41), an outer body portion (40), a first body portion (42) extending in the axial direction (X1), a second body portion (43) extending in the axial direction (X1), and an intermediate body portion (44) configured to receive the pedal axle (22) and extending in the axial direction (X1), the intermediate body portion (44) is positioned 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), and the first shoe storage surface (24) and the second shoe storage surface (26) are defined by the outer body portion (40), the inner body portion (41), the first body portion (42), the second body portion (43) and the intermediate body portion (44). [4] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 3, wherein the first body portion (42) and the second body portion (43) are free of a cleat engagement portion. [5] Pedal arrangement (10) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the outer body portion (40), the inner body portion (41), the first body portion (42) and the intermediate body portion (44) define a first opening (46), the outer body portion (40), the inner body portion (41), the second body portion (43) and the intermediate body portion (44) define a second opening (48), and the first opening (46) is opposite the second opening (48) with respect to the intermediate body portion (44). [6] Pedal assembly (10) according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the intermediate body portion (44) includes the plurality of mounting holes (34) extending through the pedal body (20) from the first shoe support surface (24) to the second shoe support surface (26). [7] The pedal assembly (10) of claim 6, wherein the plurality of mounting holes (34) includes a pair of first mounting holes (34A) on a first side of the intermediate body portion (44). [8] The pedal assembly (10) of claim 7, wherein the plurality of mounting holes (34) includes a pair of second mounting holes (34B) on a second side of the intermediate body portion (44), the second side being opposite the first side. [9] Pedal arrangement (10) according to claim 8, wherein the first mounting holes (34A) are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction (X1) by a first distance (D1), and the second mounting holes (34B) are spaced apart from the first mounting holes (34A) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (X1) by a second distance (D2) which is different from the first distance (D1). [10] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 9, wherein the second distance (D2) is smaller than the first distance (D1). [11] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the second mounting holes (34B) are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction (X1) by the first distance (D1). [12] Pedal assembly (10) according to one of claims 3 to 11, wherein at least one of the outer body portion (40), the inner body portion (41), the first body portion (42) and the second body portion (43) includes at least one third mounting hole (58) formed on the pedal body (20) from the first shoe support surface (24) toward the second shoe support surface (26). [13] The pedal assembly (10) of claim 12, wherein the at least one third mounting hole (58) includes a plurality of third mounting holes (58). [14] Pedal assembly (10) according to one of claims 3 to 13, wherein at least one of the outer body portion (40), the inner body portion (41), the first body portion (42) and the intermediate body portion (44) includes a first positioning profile (51) arranged on the first shoe support surface (24) and a second positioning profile (52) arranged on the second shoe support surface (26). [15] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the outer body portion (40), the inner body portion (41), the second body portion (43) and the intermediate body portion (44) includes a third positioning profile (53) arranged on the first shoe support surface (24) and a fourth positioning profile (54) arranged on the second shoe support surface (26). [16] Pedal assembly (10) according to one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising the plurality of pedal components. [17] Pedal assembly (10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the cleat coupling unit (14) includes a first coupling element (60), a second coupling element (62) and a biasing element (66), wherein the second coupling element (62) is pivotable between a cleat holding position and a cleat non-holding position, and the biasing element (66) biases the second coupling element (62) towards the cleat holding position. [18] The pedal assembly (10) of claim 16, wherein the plurality of pedal components includes a toe clamp (15). [19] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 16 or 18, wherein the plurality of pedal components includes a friction pad (16). [20] Pedal assembly (10) according to claim 19, wherein the friction pad (16) includes a first pad part (90) and a second pad part (92), and the second pad part (92) is a separate piece from the first pad part (90). [21] Pedal assembly (10) according to any one of claims 16 and 18 to 20, wherein the plurality of pedal components includes a plurality of spike pins (17). [22] The pedal assembly (10) of claim 21, wherein each of the spike pins (17) includes a projection portion (94) and an attachment portion (96). [23] Pedal arrangement (10) according to claim 21 or 22, wherein each of the spike pins (17) includes a first projection portion (94a), a second projection portion (94b) and an attachment portion (96), the attachment portion (96) has a first axial end portion (96a) and a second axial end portion (96b) opposite the first axial end portion (96a), the first projection portion (94a) is coupled to the first axial end portion (96a) of the attachment portion (96), and the second projection portion (94b) is coupled to the second axial end portion (96b) of the attachment portion (96). [24] Pedal assembly (10) according to any one of claims 16 and 18 to 23, wherein the plurality of pedal components includes at least a pair of cleat coupling units (14), a toe clamp (15), a friction pad (16) and a plurality of spike pins (17).

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