ADAPTER DEVICE AND REAR HUB ASSEMBLY FOR A HUMAN-PROPELLED VEHICLE INCLUDING ADAPTER DEVICE

Abstract

Adapter device 60, mounted on a sprocket support body 26 of a rear hub assembly 10, comprises a main body 62, a radially inner adapter threaded section 64, and a radially outer adapter threaded section 66. The main body 62 has an axially inner adapter end 68 that is located closer to an axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 than an axially outer adapter end 70 in an axial direction X1. The axially outer adapter end 70 is flush with or axially within the axially outer hub end 36 of the sprocket support body 26. The main body 62 includes a radially inner adapter threaded section 64 that engages in an outer locking threaded section 46 provided on a locking element 40 to secure at least one rear sprocket 18 to the sprocket support body 26 in the axial direction X1.The main body 62 includes a radially outer adapter thread section 66 which engages in an inner hub thread section 32 which is provided on the sprocket support body 26.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an adapter device and a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle including the adapter device.

[0002] A rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle is disclosed in US 5,662,197 A. The rear hub assembly includes a sprocket carrier to which at least one sprocket is attached.

[0003] One objective of the present invention is to provide an adapter device and a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle that makes it possible to attach a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to a rear hub assembly.

[0004] An adapter device according to a first aspect of the present invention is designed to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device has a rotational center axis that defines an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. The adapter device comprises a main body, a radially inner adapter threaded section, and a radially outer adapter threaded section. The main body has an axially inner adapter end and an axially outer adapter end with respect to the axial direction. In an assembly state in which the adapter device is mounted on the rear hub assembly, the axially inner adapter end is located closer in the axial direction to an axial center plane of the rear hub assembly than the axially outer adapter end.The axially outer adapter end is configured to be flush with, or axially within, an axially outer hub end of the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly in an assembled state. The main body has a radially inner adapter surface and a radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially inner adapter threaded section is provided on the radially inner adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially outer adapter threaded section is configured to engage with an external threaded section provided on a locking element to secure at least one rear sprocket axially relative to the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly.The radially outer adapter thread section is designed to engage with an inner hub thread section that is provided on the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly.

[0005] The adapter device, as described in the first aspect, is arranged radially between the sprocket carrier and the locking element. Therefore, the outer diameter of the locking element is reduced. This allows the adapter device to attach a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to the rear hub assembly.

[0006] An adapter device according to a second aspect of the present invention is designed to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device has a rotational center axis that defines an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. The adapter device comprises a main body, a radially inner adapter threaded section, and a radially outer adapter mounting section. The main body has an axially inner adapter end and an axially outer adapter end with respect to the axial direction. In an assembly state in which the adapter device is mounted on the rear hub assembly, the axially inner adapter end is located closer in the axial direction to an axial center plane of the rear hub assembly than the axially outer adapter end.The axially outer adapter end is configured to be flush with, or axially within, an axially outer hub end of the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly in an assembled state. The main body has a radially inner adapter surface and a radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially inner adapter threaded section is provided on the radially inner adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially outer adapter fastening section is provided on the radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially inner adapter threaded section is configured to engage with an outer locking threaded section provided on a locking element to secure at least one rear sprocket axially relative to the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly.The radial outer adapter mounting section is designed to be firmly connected to the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly.

[0007] The adapter device, as described in the second aspect, is arranged radially between the sprocket carrier and the locking element. Therefore, the outer diameter of the locking element is reduced. This allows the adapter device to attach a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to the rear hub assembly.

[0008] An adapter device according to a third aspect of the present invention is designed to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device has a rotational center axis that defines an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. The adapter device comprises a main body, a radially inner adapter threaded section, and a radially outer adapter threaded section. The main body has an axially inner adapter end and an axially outer adapter end with respect to the axial direction. In a mounted state, where the adapter device is mounted on the rear hub assembly, the axially inner adapter end is located closer in the axial direction to an axial center plane of the rear hub assembly than the axially outer adapter end. The main body has a radially inner adapter surface and a radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction.The radially inner adapter thread section is provided on the radially inner adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially outer adapter thread section is provided on the radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially inner adapter thread section is configured to engage with an outer locking thread section provided on a locking element to secure at least one rear sprocket axially relative to the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly. The radially outer adapter thread section is configured to engage with an inner hub thread section provided on the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly.One of the radial inner adapter thread section and the radial outer adapter thread section is completely arranged in an axial area of ​​the other of the radial inner adapter thread section and the radial outer adapter thread section in the axial direction.

[0009] The adapter device according to the third aspect is arranged radially between the sprocket carrier and the locking element. This reduces the outer diameter of the locking element. As a result, the adapter device can secure a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to the rear hub assembly. In the adapter device according to the third aspect, one radially inner adapter thread section and one radially outer adapter thread section completely overlap the other radially inner adapter thread section and one radially outer adapter thread section in the axial direction. This reduces the axial size of the rear hub assembly.

[0010] An adapter device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is designed to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body of a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device has a rotational center axis that defines an axial direction, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. The adapter device comprises a main body, a radially inner adapter threaded section, and a radially outer adapter mounting section. The main body has an axially inner adapter end and an axially outer adapter end with respect to the axial direction. In an assembly state in which the adapter device is mounted on the rear hub assembly, the axially inner adapter end is located closer in the axial direction to an axial center plane of the rear hub assembly than the axially outer adapter end. The main body has a radially inner adapter surface and a radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction.The radially inner adapter thread section is provided on the radially inner adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially outer adapter mounting section is provided on the radially outer adapter surface with respect to the radial direction. The radially inner adapter thread section is configured to engage with an outer locking thread section, which is provided on a locking element, to secure at least one rear sprocket axially relative to the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly. The radially outer adapter mounting section is configured to be firmly connected to the sprocket carrier of the rear hub assembly. One of the radially inner adapter thread section and one of the radially outer adapter mounting section are located entirely within the axial region of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section and one of the radially outer adapter mounting section in the axial direction.

[0011] The adapter device according to the fourth aspect is arranged radially between the sprocket carrier body and the locking element. This reduces the outer diameter of the locking element. As a result, the adapter device can attach a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to the rear hub assembly. In the adapter device according to the fourth aspect, one of the radially inner adapter threaded section and the radially outer adapter mounting section completely overlaps the other of the radially inner adapter threaded section and the radially outer adapter mounting section in the axial direction. This reduces the axial size of the rear hub assembly.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to the first aspect is designed such that the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter thread section overlap each other at least partially in the axial direction during assembly. In the adapter device according to the fifth aspect, the radially inner adapter thread section overlaps the radially outer adapter thread section in the axial direction. This reduces the axial size of the rear hub assembly.

[0013] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to the fifth aspect is configured such that one of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter thread section is arranged completely within an axial region of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter thread section in the axial direction. In the adapter device according to the sixth aspect, one of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter thread section completely overlaps the other of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter thread section. This further reduces the axial size of the rear hub assembly.

[0014] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to the second aspect is designed such that the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter mounting section overlap each other at least partially in the axial direction during assembly. In the adapter device according to the seventh aspect, the radially inner adapter thread section overlaps the radially outer adapter mounting section in the axial direction. This reduces the axial size of the rear hub assembly.

[0015] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to the seventh aspect is designed such that one of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter mounting section is arranged completely within an axial region of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter mounting section. In the adapter device according to the eighth aspect, one of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter mounting section completely overlaps the other of the radially inner adapter thread section and the radially outer adapter mounting section in the axial direction. This further reduces the axial size of the rear hub assembly.

[0016] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to aspects two, four, seven, and eight is designed such that the radially outer adapter mounting section is securely attached to the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly in a press-fit manner. The adapter device according to the ninth aspect simplifies the machining of the radially outer adapter mounting section.

[0017] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to one of the first to ninth aspects is designed such that at least one tool engagement groove is provided on the radially inner adapter surface of the main body. The adapter device according to the tenth aspect can be easily attached to the sprocket support body by engaging the tool engagement groove and a tool for attaching the adapter device to the sprocket support body.

[0018] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the adapter device according to the tenth aspect is designed such that the at least one tool engagement groove includes a plurality of tool engagement grooves. The adapter device according to the eleventh aspect can be easily attached to the sprocket support body using the tool engagement grooves of the adapter device.

[0019] A rear hub assembly according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is provided for a human-powered vehicle. The rear hub assembly comprises the adapter device according to one of the first to eleventh aspects and a sprocket support body by which at least one rear sprocket is supported.

[0020] The rear hub arrangement according to the twelfth aspect makes it possible to attach a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to the rear hub arrangement.

[0021] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the rear hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the sprocket support body has an axial contact surface designed to bear against the axially inner adapter end of the main body of the adapter device when the adapter device is mounted on the rear hub assembly. In the rear hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, the axially inner adapter end rests against the axial contact surface of the sprocket support body. This facilitates the arrangement of the adapter device.

[0022] The adapter device and the rear hub assembly for the human-powered vehicle, including the adapter device according to the present invention, make it possible to attach a sprocket with a relatively small diameter to the rear hub assembly.

[0023] A more complete understanding of the invention and many of its associated advantages will easily become apparent when it is considered in light of the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein Fig. 1 a front view of a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 an exploded view of a hub shell, a sprocket carrier body, an adapter device, a rear sprocket assembly and a locking element made of Fig. 1 is; Fig. 3 a cross-sectional view of the rear hub assembly Fig. 1 is; Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing part of the rear hub assembly. Fig. 1 shows; Fig. 5 a perspective view of the in Fig. The adapter device shown in section 2 is; Fig. 6 a top view of the in Fig. The adapter device shown in section 5 is; Fig. 7 a perspective view of a tool for attaching the in Fig. 2 adapter device shown on the sprocket support body; Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing part of a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle according to a second embodiment; and Fig. 9 a perspective view of a in Fig. The adapter device shown in section 8 is shown.

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein identical reference symbols in the different drawings denote the same or identical elements.

[0025] A rear hub assembly 10 and an adapter device 60 according to a first embodiment are now described with reference to the Fig. 1 to 7 described.

[0026] A human-powered vehicle is a vehicle that includes at least one wheel and can be propelled by human power. Examples of human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, racing bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handcycles, and recumbent bikes. The number of wheels on a human-powered vehicle is not limited. For example, a human-powered vehicle also includes a unicycle or a vehicle with two or more wheels. Furthermore, a human-powered vehicle is not limited to vehicles that can only be propelled by human power. It also includes electric bicycles (e-bikes) that utilize the power of an electric motor in addition to human power.The e-bike is an electrically assisted bicycle that uses an electric motor to support its propulsion. In the embodiment described below, a human-powered vehicle refers to a bicycle.

[0027] The in Fig. The rear hub assembly 10 shown in Figure 1 is, for example, a rear hub assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The rear hub assembly 10 includes, for example, a hub axle 12 and a hub housing 14. The rear hub assembly 10 is attached to a frame F of the human-powered vehicle. The rear hub assembly 10 is provided for a drive wheel of the human-powered vehicle. The drive wheel is, for example, the rear wheel. The drive wheel could also be the front wheel.

[0028] The hub axle 12 is attached to the frame F, for example, by a quick-release mechanism 12X. The quick-release mechanism 12X is designed, for example, to sandwich-like enclose the rear hub assembly 10 and the frame F in an axial direction X1, so that the rear hub assembly 10 and the drive wheel are attached to the frame F. The quick-release mechanism 12X includes, for example, an actuating lever 12Y for removing the rear hub assembly 10 and the drive wheel from the frame F. The hub axle 12 can be attached to the frame F by a threaded element.

[0029] The hub axle 12 includes a first end 12A and a second end 12B. The hub housing 14 is rotatable relative to the hub axle 12. The hub housing 14 includes a flange 14A to which the spokes of the drive wheel are connected. The rear hub assembly 10 is designed to transmit the human driving force received from the rear sprocket assembly 16 to the drive wheel.

[0030] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the rear sprocket assembly 16 comprises, for example, at least one rear sprocket 18. The rear sprocket assembly 16 comprises, for example, a plurality of rear sprockets 18. The at least one rear sprocket 18 comprises, for example, a first rear sprocket 20. The at least one rear sprocket 18 includes, for example, at least one of the first rear sprocket 20, a second rear sprocket 22, and a third rear sprocket 24. In the present embodiment, the at least one rear sprocket 18 includes, for example, all of the first rear sprocket 20, the second rear sprocket 22, and the third rear sprocket 24. The second rear sprocket 22 has a larger outer diameter than the first rear sprocket 20. The second rear sprocket 22 has more teeth than the first rear sprocket 20. The number of teeth of the first rear sprocket 20 is, for example, ten.The number of teeth on the second rear sprocket 22, for example, is twelve.

[0031] The at least one rear sprocket 18 includes, for example, a plurality of third rear sprockets 24. In the present embodiment, the third rear sprockets 24 include six rear sprockets 18. The third rear sprockets 24 form, for example, a single cassette sprocket. One of the rear sprockets 18, which is included in the third rear sprockets 24 with the fewest teeth, has a larger outer diameter than the second rear sprocket 22. One of the rear sprockets 18, which is included in the third rear sprockets 24 with the fewest teeth, has more teeth than the second rear sprocket 22. One of the rear sprockets 18, which is included in the third rear sprockets 24 with the fewest teeth, has, for example, fifteen teeth. One of the rear sprockets 18, which is included in the third rear sprockets 24 with the most teeth, has, for example, forty teeth.

[0032] The first rear sprocket 20, for example, includes a first engagement section 20A. The second rear sprocket 22, for example, includes a second engagement section 22A for engagement with the first engagement section 20A of the first rear sprocket 20. The first engagement section 20A includes, for example, a projection that extends in the axial direction X1. The second engagement section 22A includes a recess that is recessed in the axial direction X1. The engagement of the projection of the first engagement section 20A with the recess of the second engagement section 22A limits the rotation of the first rear sprocket 20 relative to the second rear sprocket 22.

[0033] The rear hub assembly 10 includes, for example, the adapter device 60 and a sprocket support body 26. For example, the at least one rear sprocket 18 is supported by the sprocket support body 26. In the present embodiment, the sprocket support body 26 supports the first rear sprocket 20, the second rear sprocket 22, and the third rear sprockets 24.

[0034] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the sprocket carrier body 26 includes a radially outer hub surface 28 and a radially inner hub surface 30. The radially outer hub surface 28 of the sprocket carrier body 26 includes a first rear sprocket engagement section 26A. A third engagement section 22B is provided on an inner surface of the second rear sprocket 22 in a radial direction X2. In a case where the first rear sprocket engagement section 26A engages with the third engagement section 22B, the second rear sprocket 22 rotates integrally with the sprocket carrier body 26. For example, the first rear sprocket engagement section 26A is splined with the third engagement section 22B.

[0035] A fourth engagement section 24A is provided on an inner surface of the third rear sprocket 24 in the radial direction X2. The fourth engagement section 24A includes, for example, a groove for engagement with the first rear sprocket engagement section 26A. In a case where the first rear sprocket engagement section 26A engages with the groove of the fourth engagement section 24A, the third rear sprocket 24 rotates integrally with the sprocket carrier 26. For example, the first rear sprocket engagement section 26A is splined to the fourth engagement section 24A.

[0036] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the radially inner hub surface 30 of the sprocket support body 26 includes, for example, an inner hub thread section 32. The radially inner hub surface 30 includes, for example, a hub flange 34 that projects inwards in the radial direction X2. The inner hub thread section 32 is, for example, located closer to the first end 12A of the hub axle 12 than the hub flange 34 is in the axial direction X1.

[0037] The sprocket carrier body 26 includes, for example, an axially outer hub end 36. The axially outer hub end 36 includes an axially outer hub surface 36A, which is oriented in the axial direction X1 towards the first end 12A of the hub axle 12. The axially outer hub end 36 is located closer to an axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 than a tooth section 22T of the second rear sprocket 22 is to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10. The axial center plane CP is, for example, a flat surface extending parallel to the radial direction X2. The axial center plane CP intersects, for example, a rotation center axis CA perpendicularly. In the present embodiment, the axial center plane CP refers to a surface that intersects the rotation center axis CA perpendicularly and extends through a midpoint of two flanges 14A of the hub housing 14 in the axial direction X1.In the present embodiment, the sprocket support body 26, the adapter device 60, the rear sprocket assembly 16 and a locking element 40 are arranged between the axial center plane CP and the first end 12A of the hub axle 12 in the axial direction X1.

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the rear hub assembly 10 includes, for example, the locking element 40. The locking element 40 is, for example, an element for securing the at least one rear sprocket 18 to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1. The locking element 40 secures, for example, the first rear sprocket 20, the second rear sprocket 22, and the third rear sprockets 24 to the sprocket support body 26.

[0039] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the locking element 40 includes, for example, a radially outer locking surface 42. The radially outer locking surface 42 includes, for example, a sprocket seat 44 and an outer locking thread section 46. The first rear sprocket 20 is arranged on the sprocket seat 44. The sprocket seat 44 has a smaller outer diameter than the sprocket support body 26. The outer locking thread section 46 differs from the sprocket seat 44 in the axial direction X1. The outer locking thread section 46 is arranged closer to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 than the sprocket seat 44 is arranged to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10.

[0040] The locking element 40 includes a locking flange 48. The locking flange 48 presses the rear sprocket assembly 16 in the axial direction X1 towards the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10. The locking flange 48 is provided on the sprocket seat 44. A second rear sprocket engagement section 48A is provided on a surface of the locking flange 48 that is oriented towards the axial center plane CP. A fifth engagement section 20B for engaging with the second rear sprocket engagement section 48A of the locking element 40 is provided on a surface of the first rear sprocket 20 that is oriented away from the axial center plane CP.

[0041] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the rear hub assembly 10 includes, for example, a rotating element 50 and a one-way coupling 52. The rotating element 50 rotates integrally with the hub housing 14. The rotating element 50 includes, for example, a first rotating section 50A and a second rotating section 50B. The first rotating section 50A is pressed into an inner surface of the hub housing 14. The second rotating section 50B differs from the first rotating section 50A in the axial direction X1. The second rotating section 50B is formed integrally with the first rotating section 50A. The second rotating section 50B is connected to the sprocket carrier body 26 via the one-way coupling 52.

[0042] The one-way coupling 52 includes, for example, at least one roller coupling, one jaw coupling, and one ratchet coupling. The one-way coupling 52 transmits torque from the sprocket carrier 26 to the hub housing 14 when the rotational speed of the sprocket carrier 26 in a predetermined direction, corresponding to the forward direction of movement of the human-powered vehicle, is greater than the rotational speed of the hub housing 14 in the predetermined direction. When torque is transmitted from the sprocket carrier 26 to the hub housing 14, the sprocket carrier 26 rotates integrally with the hub housing 14. The one-way coupling 52 is designed to allow relative rotation of the sprocket carrier 26 and the hub housing 14 when the rotational speed of the hub housing 14 in the predetermined direction is greater than the rotational speed of the sprocket carrier 26 in the predetermined direction.

[0043] The one-way coupling 52 includes, for example, an outer ring 52A and an inner ring 52B. The outer ring 52A includes, for example, the sprocket support body 26. The inner ring 52B includes, for example, the second rotating section 50B of the rotating element 50. The one-way coupling 52 includes, for example, an engaging section and a friction section. The engaging section includes a pawl or a roller. The friction section includes a groove for engagement with the pawl or roller of the engaging section. The engaging section and the friction section are located between the outer ring 52A and the inner ring 52B. The engaging section is located on one side of the outer ring 52A and the inner ring 52B. The friction section is located on the other side of the outer ring 52A and the inner ring 52B.

[0044] The rear hub assembly 10 includes, for example, a first bearing 54A and a second bearing 54B. The first bearing 54A supports the rotating element 50 in a manner rotatable relative to the hub axis 12. The second bearing 54B supports the hub housing 14 in a manner rotatable relative to the hub axis 12. The rear hub assembly 10 also includes, for example, a first positioning element 56A and a second positioning element 56B. The first positioning element 56A presses the first bearing 54A in the axial direction X1 towards the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10. The second positioning element 56B presses the second bearing 54B in the axial direction X1 towards the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10.

[0045] As in the Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the adapter device 60 is designed to be attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 of the human-powered vehicle. The adapter device 60 has a rotational center axis CA that defines the axial direction X1, the radial direction X2, and a circumferential direction X3. In a state where the rear hub assembly 10 is assembled, the adapter device 60 is positioned between the sprocket support body 26 and the locking element 40 in the radial direction X2.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the adapter device 60 comprises a main body 62, a radially inner adapter thread section 64, and a radially outer adapter thread section 66. The main body 62 is, for example, ring-shaped in the circumferential direction X3 with respect to the axis of rotation CA.

[0047] As in the Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the main body 62 includes an axially inner adapter end 68 and an axially outer adapter end 70 with respect to the axial direction X1. The axially inner adapter end 68 is located closer to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 than the axially outer adapter end 70 in the axial direction X1 in an assembled state. The adapter device 60 is mounted on the rear hub assembly 10 in the assembled state.

[0048] The sprocket support body 26, for example, has an axial contact surface 38 designed to bear against the axially inner adapter end 68 of the main body 62 of the adapter device 60 in the assembled state. The axial contact surface 38 is provided on the hub flange 34. The axially inner adapter end 68 of the adapter device 60 includes an axially inner adapter surface 72, which is aligned with the axial center plane CP in the assembled state. The axially inner adapter surface 72 bears against the axial contact surface 38 in the assembled state.

[0049] The axially outer adapter end 70 is configured to be flush with, or axially within, the axially outer hub end 36 of the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the assembled state. In the present embodiment, the axially outer adapter end 70 is configured to be flush with the axially outer hub end 36 in the assembled state. The axially outer adapter end 70 of the adapter device 60 includes an axially outer adapter surface 74, which, in the assembled state, is oriented towards the first end 12A of the hub axle 12. For example, the axially outer adapter surface 74 is flush with the axially outer hub surface 36A of the axially outer hub end 36 in the axial direction X1.

[0050] The axial outer adapter surface 74 is, for example, a flat surface parallel to the radial direction X2. The axial outer adapter surface 74 may, for example, be partially non-parallel to the radial direction X2. The axial outer adapter surface 74 may include a curved surface, a projection, or a recess. The axial outer hub surface 36A of the axial outer hub end 36 is, for example, a flat surface parallel to the radial direction X2. The axial outer hub surface 36A may, for example, be partially non-parallel to the radial direction X2. The axial outer hub surface 36A may include a curved surface, a projection, or a recess.In a case where at least one of the axially outer adapter surface 74 and the axially outer hub surface 36A is partially not parallel to the axial mean plane CP, for example, a section of the axially outer adapter surface 74 that is closest to the first end 12A is located in the axial direction X1 at the same position as a section of the axially outer hub surface 36A that is closest to the first end 12A.

[0051] A first dimension L1 from the axially inner adapter surface 72 to the axially outer adapter surface 74 in the axial direction X1 is, for example, less than or equal to a second dimension L2 from the axial contact surface 38 of the sprocket support body 26 to the axially outer hub surface 36A in the axial direction X1. In the present embodiment, the first dimension L1 is equal to the second dimension L2.

[0052] The main body 62 includes a radially inner adapter surface 76 and a radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is provided on the radially inner adapter surface 76 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is configured to engage with the outer locking thread section 46, which is provided on the locking element 40. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 includes, for example, internal threads. The outer locking thread section 46 of the locking element 40 includes, for example, external threads. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is provided on a portion of the radially inner adapter surface 76 in the axial direction X1. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 can be provided on the entire radially inner adapter surface 76 in the axial direction X1.

[0053] The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is configured to engage with the inner hub thread section 32, which is provided on the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 includes, for example, external threads. The inner hub thread section 32 of the sprocket support body 26 includes, for example, internal threads. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is provided on a portion of the radially outer adapter surface 78 in the axial direction X1. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 can be provided on the entire radially outer adapter surface 78 in the axial direction X1.

[0054] The radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 overlap each other, for example, at least partially in the axial direction X1 during assembly. For example, an end of the radially inner adapter thread section 64, which is arranged towards the first end 12A of the hub axle 12, overlaps the axially outer adapter surface 74 in the axial direction X1. For example, an end of the radially outer adapter thread section 66, which is arranged towards the first end 12A of the hub axle 12, overlaps the axially outer adapter surface 74 in the axial direction X1. For example, an end of the radially inner adapter thread section 64, which is arranged towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12, does not overlap the axially inner adapter surface 72 in the axial direction X1.For example, one end of the radially outer adapter thread section 66, which is arranged towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12, does not overlap the axially inner adapter surface 72 in the axial direction X1. For example, the end of the radially inner adapter thread section 64, which is arranged towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12, is arranged closer to the second end 12B of the hub axle 12 in the axial direction X1 than the end of the radially outer adapter thread section 66, which is arranged towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12.

[0055] One of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 is completely located within an axial region AX of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 in the axial direction X1. The axial region AX comprises a first axial region A1 and a second axial region A2. The first axial region A1 is the axial region AX of the radially inner adapter thread section 64. The second axial region A2 is the axial region AX of the radially outer adapter thread section 66. In the present embodiment, the radially outer adapter thread section 66 is completely located within the first axial region A1 of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 in the axial direction X1. The second axial region A2 of the radially outer adapter thread section 66 is smaller in the axial direction X1 than the first axial region A1 of the radially inner adapter thread section 64.

[0056] For example, in the Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 7, at least one tool engagement groove 80 is provided on the radially inner adapter surface 76 of the main body 62. The at least one tool engagement groove 80 includes, for example, a plurality of tool engagement grooves 80. The tool engagement groove 80 is, for example, recessed in the radial direction X2 and extends in the axial direction X1. The internal threads of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 are interrupted in the circumferential direction X3 at a section of the radially inner adapter surface 76 where the tool engagement groove 80 is located.

[0057] A tool 90 serves, for example, to attach the adapter device 60 to the sprocket support body 26. The tool 90 includes, for example, an operating section 92, at least one projection 94, and a shaft 96. The operating section 92 is designed to be held by an operator. The at least one projection 94 projects, for example, from the operating section 92. The number of the at least one projection 94 is less than or equal to the number of the at least one tool engagement groove 80. The projection 94 engages in the tool engagement groove 80 of the adapter device 60. The shaft 96 extends in a direction in which the projection 94 projects from the operating section 92. The at least one projection 94 is arranged on the operating section 92 such that the projection 94 engages in the tool engagement groove 80 when the shaft 96 is arranged along the rotational center axis CA of the adapter device 60.The operator rotates the operating section 92 circumferentially X3 until the projection 94 engages with the tool engagement groove 80, thus securing the radially outer adapter thread section 66 of the adapter device 60 in the inner hub thread section 32 of the sprocket support body 26. The operator rotates the adapter device 60 until the axially inner adapter surface 72 of the adapter device 60 rests against the axial contact surface 38 of the sprocket support body 26.

[0058] The adapter device 60 of the present embodiment reduces the outer diameter of the locking element 40. Therefore, a sprocket 18 with fewer teeth than the third sprocket 24, which is coupled to the sprocket carrier 26, can be attached to the locking element 40. The adapter device 60 allows a sprocket 18 with a relatively small number of teeth to be attached to the rear hub assembly 10. Therefore, a larger number of rear sprockets 18 can be coupled to the rear hub assembly 10. This can increase the number of gear stages of the rear hub assembly 10. A rear sprocket 18 with a relatively small number of teeth can be attached to the rear hub assembly 10. This can increase the difference between a gear ratio in the highest gear stage and a gear ratio in the lowest gear stage.Thus, the rear hub assembly 10 can accommodate a larger range of gear stages.

[0059] The axially outer adapter end 70 is designed to be flush with, or axially inside, the axially outer hub end 36 of the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 when assembled. Therefore, the operator can easily remove the rear sprocket 18 and the locking element 40 from the sprocket support body 26, or attach the rear sprocket 18 and the locking element 40 to the sprocket support body 26 while the adapter device 60 is attached to the sprocket support body 26. This reduces the need for the operator to perform a complicated task, thus improving the ease of use of the adapter device 60.

[0060] A rear hub assembly 10 and an adapter device 60 according to a second embodiment are now described with reference to the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 described. The rear hub assembly 10 and the adapter device 60 of the second embodiment are identical to the rear hub assembly 10 and the adapter device 60 of the first embodiment, except for the method of attaching the adapter device 60 to the sprocket support body 26. The same reference numerals are used for those components that are identical to the corresponding components of the rear hub assembly 10 and the adapter device 60 of the first embodiment. Such components are not described in detail.

[0061] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 8, in the present embodiment the radially inner hub surface 30 of the sprocket support body 26 includes an inner hub mounting section 32X instead of the inner hub thread section 32. In the present embodiment, the radially outer adapter surface 78 of the adapter device 60 includes a radially outer adapter mounting section 66X instead of the radially outer adapter thread section 66.

[0062] The adapter device 60 comprises the main body 62, the radially inner adapter threaded section 64, and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X. The main body 62 and the radially inner adapter threaded section 64 are the same as in the first embodiment.

[0063] The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is provided on a portion of the radially outer adapter surface 78 in the axial direction X1. The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X can be provided on the entire radially outer adapter surface 78 in the axial direction X1.

[0064] The radial outer adapter mounting section 66X is designed to be firmly attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10. In the assembled state, for example, the radial outer adapter mounting section 66X is permanently attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10. The radial outer adapter mounting section 66X is attached to the inner hub mounting section 32X of the sprocket support body 26 such that the adapter device 60 does not move relative to the sprocket support body 26. The radial outer adapter mounting section 66X is securely attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10, for example, by means of an interference fit.

[0065] The radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X overlap each other, at least partially, in the axial direction X1 during assembly. For example, one end of the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X, which is located towards the first end 12A of the hub axle 12, overlaps the axially outer adapter surface 74 in the axial direction X1. For example, one end of the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X, which is located towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12, does not overlap the axially inner adapter surface 72 in the axial direction X1. The end of the radially inner adapter thread section 64, which is arranged towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12, is arranged in the axial direction X1 closer to the second end 12B of the hub axle 12 than the end of the radially outer adapter fastening section 66X, which is arranged towards the second end 12B of the hub axle 12, to the second end 12B of the hub axle 12.

[0066] One of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is completely located within the axial region AX of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X in the axial direction X1. In the present embodiment, the axial region AX includes a third axial region A3 instead of the second axial region A2, which is the axial region AX of the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X. The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is completely located within the first axial region A1 of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 in the axial direction X1. The third axial region A3 of the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is smaller than the first axial region A1 of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 in the axial direction X1.

[0067] The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is permanently attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10. Therefore, the operator does not need to remove the adapter device 60 from the sprocket support body 26 when performing maintenance on the rear hub assembly 10. This improves the ease of use of the rear hub assembly 10.

[0068] The descriptions of the embodiments mentioned above illustrate, without limitation, the applicable forms of the rear hub assembly 10 and the adapter device 60 according to the present invention. In addition to the embodiments described above, the rear hub assembly 10 and the adapter device 60 according to the present invention are applicable, for example, to modified examples of the embodiments described above, which are described below, and to combinations of at least two of the modified examples that are compatible with each other. In the modified examples described below, elements that are identical to the corresponding elements of the embodiments described above are designated with the same reference numerals. Such components are not described in detail.

[0069] The axially outer adapter end 70 can be designed to be arranged axially inside the axially outer hub end 36 in the assembled state. In the present modified example, the first dimension L1 is, for example, smaller than the second dimension L2.

[0070] In the first embodiment, the radially inner adapter thread section 64 can be arranged completely within the first axial region A1 of the radially outer adapter thread section 66 in the axial direction X1. In the present modified example, the second axial region A2 of the radially outer adapter thread section 66 is greater than or equal to the first axial region A1 of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 in the axial direction X1.

[0071] In the second embodiment, the radially inner adapter thread section 64 can be arranged completely within the third axial region A3 of the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X in the axial direction X1. In the present modified example, the third axial region A3 of the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X in the axial direction X1 is greater than or equal to the first axial region A1 of the radially inner adapter thread section 64.

[0072] The adapter device 60 need not include the tool engagement groove 80. In the present modified example, the operator can, for example, attach the adapter device 60 to the sprocket support body 26 by rotating the adapter device 60 while pressing the axially inner adapter end 68.

[0073] The adapter device 60 can only include one tool engagement groove 80.

[0074] Instead of or in addition to the groove running in the axial direction X1, the tool engagement groove 80 can include a groove recessed in the radial direction X2.

[0075] The tool engagement groove 80 can be provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78, as long as the adapter device 60 can be brought into engagement with the tool 90 from the axially outer adapter surface 74 of the adapter device 60. The adapter device 60 includes, for example, a tool engagement groove recessed from the radially outer adapter surface 78. The adapter device 60 can include a tool engagement section projecting from the radially outer adapter surface 78.

[0076] The axial contact surface 38 can be omitted on the sprocket support body 26. In the present modified example, the hub flange 34 can be omitted on the sprocket support body 26. In the present modified example, for instance, the adapter device 60 can be arranged relative to the sprocket support body 26 in the axial direction X1 corresponding to a section of the inner hub thread section 32 that is closest to the axial center plane CP.

[0077] In the second embodiment, the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X can be securely attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 by means of an adhesive. The adhesive includes, for example, at least one epoxy resin adhesive, one acrylic adhesive, and one hot melt adhesive.

[0078] As long as the adapter device 60 is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The adapter device 60 is configured to be mounted on the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device 60 has a rotational center axis CA that defines the axial direction X1, the radial direction X2, and the circumferential direction X3. The adapter device 60 comprises the main body 62, the radially inner adapter threaded section 64, and a radially outer adapter threaded section 66. The main body 62 has an axially inner adapter end 68 and an axially outer adapter end 70 with respect to the axial direction X1. In the assembly state in which the adapter device 60 is mounted on the rear hub assembly 10, the axially inner adapter end 68 is located closer to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1 than the axially outer adapter end 70.The axially outer adapter end 70 is configured to be flush with, or axially within, the axially outer hub end 36 of the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the assembled state. The main body 62 has the radially inner adapter surface 76 and the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is provided on the radially inner adapter surface 76 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is configured to engage with the outer locking thread section 46, which is provided on the locking element 40, in order to secure at least one rear sprocket 18 relative to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1.The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is designed to engage with the inner hub thread section 32, which is provided on the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10. In the present modified example, one of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 can be partially located in the axial region AX of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 in the axial direction X1.

[0079] As long as the adapter device 60 is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The adapter device 60 is configured to be mounted on the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device 60 has a rotational center axis CA that defines the axial direction X1, the radial direction X2, and the circumferential direction X3. The adapter device 60 comprises the main body 62, the radially inner adapter threaded section 64, and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X. The main body 62 has the axially inner adapter end 68 and the axially outer adapter end 70 with respect to the axial direction X1. In the assembly state in which the adapter device 60 is mounted on the rear hub assembly 10, the axially inner adapter end 68 is located closer in the axial direction to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 than the axially outer adapter end 70.The axially outer adapter end 70 is configured to be flush with, or axially within, the axially outer hub end 36 of the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 when assembled. The main body has the radially inner adapter surface 76 and the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter threaded section 64 is provided on the radially inner adapter surface 76 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially outer adapter fastening section 66X is provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter threaded section 64 is configured to engage with the outer locking threaded section 46, which is provided on the locking element 40, in order to secure at least one rear sprocket 18 relative to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1.The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is designed to be firmly connected to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10. In the present modified example, one of the radially inner adapter threaded section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X can be partially located in the axial region AX of the other of the radially inner adapter threaded section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X in the axial direction X1.

[0080] As long as the adapter device 60 is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The adapter device 60 is configured to be attached to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device 60 has a rotational center axis CA that defines the axial direction X1, the radial direction X2, and the circumferential direction X3. The adapter device 60 comprises the main body 62, the radially inner adapter threaded section 64, and a radially outer adapter threaded section 66. The main body 62 has an axially inner adapter end 68 and an axially outer adapter end 70 with respect to the axial direction X1. In the assembly state in which the adapter device 60 is mounted on the rear hub assembly 10, the axially inner adapter end 68 is located closer to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1 than the axially outer adapter end 70.The main body 62 has the radially inner adapter surface 76 and the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is provided on the radially inner adapter surface 76 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter thread section 64 is configured to engage with the outer locking thread section 46, which is provided on the locking element 40, in order to secure at least one rear sprocket 18 relative to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1. The radially outer adapter thread section 66 is configured to engage with the inner hub thread section 32, which is provided on the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10.One of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 is located entirely within the axial region AX of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter thread section 66 in the axial direction X1. In the present modified example, the axially outer adapter end 70 can be configured to be located axially outside the axially outer hub end 36 in the assembled state.

[0081] As long as the adapter device 60 is configured as described below, any other structure can be omitted. The adapter device 60 is configured to be mounted on the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 for a human-powered vehicle. The adapter device 60 has a rotational center axis CA that defines the axial direction X1, the radial direction X2, and the circumferential direction X3. The adapter device 60 comprises the main body 62, the radially inner adapter threaded section 64, and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X. The main body 62 has the axially inner adapter end 68 and the axially outer adapter end 70 with respect to the axial direction X1. In the assembly state in which the adapter device 60 is mounted on the rear hub assembly 10, the axially inner adapter end 68 is located closer to the axial center plane CP of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1 than the axially outer adapter end 70.The main body has the radially inner adapter surface 76 and the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter threaded section 64 is provided on the radially inner adapter surface 76 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is provided on the radially outer adapter surface 78 with respect to the radial direction X2. The radially inner adapter threaded section 64 is configured to engage with the outer locking threaded section 46, which is provided on the locking element 40, in order to secure at least one rear sprocket 18 relative to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10 in the axial direction X1. The radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is configured to be firmly connected to the sprocket support body 26 of the rear hub assembly 10.One of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X is located entirely within the axial region AX of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section 64 and the radially outer adapter mounting section 66X in the axial direction X1. In the present modified example, the axially outer adapter end 70 can be configured to be located axially outside the axially outer hub end 36 in the assembled state.

[0082] In this description, the phrase "at least one of," as used in this revelation, means "one or more" of a desired choice. As an example, the phrase "at least one of" in this revelation means "only a single choice" or "both of two choices" when the number of choices is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one of" in this revelation means "only a single choice" or "any combination of two or more choices" when the number of choices is three or more. Furthermore, the term "and / or" in this revelation 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 phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C.In other words, the expression “at least one of A and B” in this revelation does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B”. REFERENCE MARK 10 rear hub arrangement 12 Hub axle 12A first end 12B second end 12X Quick Release Mechanism 12Y Actuating Lever 14 hub shells 14A flange 16 rear sprocket arrangement 18 rear sprocket 20 first rear sprocket 20A first intervention section 20B fifth intervention section 22 second rear sprocket 22A second intervention section 22B third intervention section 22T tooth section 24 third rear sprocket 24A fourth intervention section 26 Sprocket support bodies 26A first rear sprocket engagement section 28 radial outer hub surface 30 radial inner hub surface 32 inner hub thread section 32X inner hub mounting section 34 Hub flange 36 axial outer hub end 36A axial outer hub surface 38 axial contact surfaces 40 locking element 42 radial outer locking surface 44 Sprocket seat 46 outer locking thread section 48 Locking flange 48A Second rear sprocket engagement section 50 rotating elements 50A first rotation section 50B second rotation section 52 One-way coupling 52A Outer ring 52B inner ring 54A first storage 54B second warehouse 56A first positioning element 56B second positioning element 60 Adapter device 62 Main body 64 radial inner adapter thread section 66 radial outer adapter thread section 66X radial outer adapter mounting section 68 axial inner adapter end 70 axial outer adapter end 72 axial inner adapter surface 74 axial outer adapter surface 76 radial inner adapter surface 78 radial outer adapter surface 80 Tool engagement groove 90 tools 92 Operating section 94 lead 96 wave AX Axial area A1 first axial area A2 second axial area CA Rotation center axis CP Axial mid plane F frame L1 first dimension L2 second dimension X1 Axial direction X2 Radial direction X3 Circumferential direction QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 5 662 197 A

[0002]

Claims

[1] Adapter device (60) configured to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body (26) of a rear hub assembly (10) for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the adapter device (60) has a rotational center axis (CA) defining an axial direction (X1), a radial direction (X2) and a circumferential direction (X3), the adapter device (60) comprising: a main body (62) having an axially inner adapter end (68) and an axially outer adapter end (70) with respect to the axial direction (X1), wherein the axially inner adapter end (68) is arranged in the axial direction (X1) closer to an axial center plane (CP) of the rear hub assembly (10) than the axially outer adapter end (70) in an assembly state in which the adapter device (60) is mounted on the rear hub assembly (10), wherein the axially outer adapter end (70) is configured to be flush with or axially within an axially outer hub end (36) of the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the assembly state, wherein the main body (62) has a radially inner adapter surface (76) and a radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); a radially inner adapter threaded section (64) which is provided on the radially inner adapter surface (76) with respect to the radial direction (X2); and a radially outer adapter thread section (66) which is provided on the radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); wherein the radially inner adapter thread section (64) is configured to engage with an outer locking thread section (46) provided on a locking element (40) in order to secure at least one rear sprocket (18) relative to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1); and wherein the radially outer adapter thread section (66) is designed to engage with an inner hub thread section (32) which is provided on the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10). [2] Adapter device (60) configured to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body (26) of a rear hub assembly (10) for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the adapter device (60) has a rotational center axis (CA) defining an axial direction (X1), a radial direction (X2) and a circumferential direction (X3), the adapter device (60) comprising: a main body (62) having an axially inner adapter end (68) and an axially outer adapter end (70) with respect to the axial direction (X1), wherein the axially inner adapter end (68) is arranged in an assembly state in which the adapter device (60) is mounted on the rear wheel hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1) closer to an axial center plane (CP) of the rear hub assembly (10) than the axially outer adapter end (70), wherein the axially outer adapter end (70) is configured to be flush with or axially within an axially outer hub end (36) of the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the assembly state, wherein the main body (62) has a radially inner adapter surface (76) and a radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); a radially inner adapter threaded section (64) which is provided on the radially inner adapter surface (76) with respect to the radial direction (X2); and a radially outer adapter mounting section (66X) which is provided on the radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); wherein the radially inner adapter thread section (64) is configured to engage with an outer locking thread section (46) provided on a locking element (40) in order to secure at least one rear sprocket (18) relative to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1); and wherein the radial outer adapter mounting section (66X) is designed to be firmly connected to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10). [3] Adapter device (60) configured to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body (26) of a rear hub assembly (10) for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the adapter device (60) has a rotational center axis (CA) defining an axial direction (X1), a radial direction (X2) and a circumferential direction (X3), the adapter device (60) comprising: a main body (62) having an axially inner adapter end (68) and an axially outer adapter end (70) with respect to the axial direction (X1), wherein the axially inner adapter end (68) is located closer to an axial center plane (CP) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1) than the axially outer adapter end (70), wherein the main body (62) has a radially inner adapter surface (76) and has a radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); a radially inner adapter threaded section (64) which is provided on the radially inner adapter surface (76) with respect to the radial direction (X2); and a radially outer adapter thread section (66) which is provided on the radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); wherein the radially inner adapter thread section (64) is designed to engage with an outer locking thread section (46) provided on a locking element (40) in order to secure at least one rear sprocket (18) relative to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1); wherein the radially outer adapter thread section (66) is designed to engage with an inner hub thread section (32) provided on the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10); and wherein one of the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter thread section (66) is arranged completely in an axial region (AX) of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter thread section (66) in the axial direction (X1). [4] Adapter device (60) configured to be mounted on a sprocket carrier body (26) of a rear hub assembly (10) for a human-powered vehicle, wherein the adapter device (60) has a rotational center axis (CA) defining an axial direction (X1), a radial direction (X2) and a circumferential direction (X3), the adapter device (60) comprising: a main body (62) having an axially inner adapter end (68) and an axially outer adapter end (70) with respect to the axial direction (X1), wherein the axially inner adapter end (68) is located closer to an axial center plane (CP) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1) than the axially outer adapter end (70), wherein the main body (62) has a radially inner adapter surface (76) and has a radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); a radially inner adapter threaded section (64) which is provided on the radially inner adapter surface (76) with respect to the radial direction (X2); and a radially outer adapter mounting section (66X) which is provided on the radially outer adapter surface (78) with respect to the radial direction (X2); wherein the radially inner adapter thread section (64) is designed to engage with an outer locking thread section (46) provided on a locking element (40) in order to secure at least one rear sprocket (18) relative to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10) in the axial direction (X1); wherein the radially outer adapter mounting section (66X) is designed to be firmly connected to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10); and wherein one of the radial inner adapter thread section (64) and the radial outer adapter mounting section (66X) is arranged completely in an axial region (AX) of the other of the radial inner adapter thread section (64) and the radial outer adapter mounting section (66X) in the axial direction (X1). [5] Adapter device (60) according to claim 1, wherein the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter thread section (66) overlap each other at least partially in the axial direction (X1) in the assembly state. [6] Adapter device (60) according to claim 5, wherein one of the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter thread section (66) is arranged completely in an axial region (AX) of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter thread section (66) in the axial direction (X1). [7] Adapter device (60) according to claim 2, wherein the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter fastening section (66X) overlap each other at least partially in the axial direction (X1) when assembled. [8] Adapter device (60) according to claim 7, wherein one of the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter fastening section (66X) is arranged completely in an axial region (AX) of the other of the radially inner adapter thread section (64) and the radially outer adapter fastening section (66X) in the axial direction (X1). [9] Adapter device (60) according to one of claims 2, 4, 7 and 8, wherein the radially outer adapter mounting section (66X) is press-fitted to the sprocket support body (26) of the rear hub assembly (10). [10] Adapter device (60) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one tool engagement groove (80) is provided on the radially inner adapter surface (76) of the main body (62). [11] Adapter device (60) according to claim 10, wherein the at least one tool engagement groove (80) includes a plurality of tool engagement grooves (80). [12] Rear hub assembly (10) for a human-powered vehicle, comprising the rear hub assembly (10): the adapter device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and a sprocket support body (26) by which at least one rear sprocket (18) is supported. [13] Rear hub assembly (10) according to claim 12, wherein the sprocket support body (26) has an axial contact surface (38) which is designed to bear against the axially inner adapter end (68) of the main body (62) of the adapter device (60) in an assembly state in which the adapter device (60) is mounted on the rear hub assembly (10).

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