Bicycle suspension components

Abstract

Suspension component (108) for a bicycle (100), wherein the suspension component (108) comprises: a fork steerer tube (200); an upper tube (210) and a lower tube (214) which are arranged telescopically and together define an interior space (240); a crown (202) that connects the fork steerer tube (200) to the upper tube (210); a shaft (248) extending into the interior (240); a movable element (252) arranged in the interior (240), wherein the movable element (252) divides the interior (240) into a first chamber (254) and a second chamber (256); a first spring (414) that controls the movement of the movable element (252) relative to the shaft (248) in a first direction along an axis (242); and a second spring (416) which controls the movement of the movable element (252) relative to the shaft (248) in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

Description

AREA OF REVELATION

[0001] The disclosure relates generally to bicycle components and in particular to bicycle suspension components. BACKGROUND

[0002] Bicycles are well known to be equipped with suspension components. Suspension components are used for various purposes, such as damping shocks, vibrations, or other disturbances to which the bicycle is subjected during use, and maintaining ground contact for traction. A common application for suspension components on bicycles is to dampen shocks or vibrations felt by the rider when traveling over bumps, ruts, rocks, potholes, and / or other obstacles. These suspension components include components for the rear and / or front suspension. Suspension components can also be used in other locations, such as on the seat post or handlebars, to protect the rider from impacts. SUMMARY

[0003] An exemplary suspension component for a bicycle disclosed herein comprises an air spring with an air spring body and a piston within the air spring body. The piston divides the air spring body into a first chamber and a second chamber. The air spring further comprises a shaft extending into the air spring body. The shaft extends through the piston. The piston is displaceable along the shaft. The air spring further comprises a spring that biases the piston in a first direction relative to the shaft.

[0004] An exemplary suspension component for a bicycle disclosed herein comprises a damper with a damper body and a damping element within the damper body. The damping element divides the damper body into a first chamber and a second chamber. The damper further comprises a shaft extending into the damper body. The shaft extends through the damping element. The damping element is displaceable along the shaft. The damping element further comprises a spring that preloads the damping element in a first direction relative to the shaft.

[0005] An exemplary suspension component for a bicycle disclosed herein comprises a first upper tube and a first lower tube arranged telescopically, as well as a second upper tube and a second lower tube arranged telescopically. The first upper tube is connected to the second upper tube. The suspension component further comprises a damper in an interior defined by the first upper and lower tubes. The damper comprises a first shaft connected to the first lower tube and a damping element movably connected to the first shaft. The suspension component further comprises an air spring in an interior defined by the second upper and lower tubes. The air spring comprises a second shaft connected to the second lower tube and a piston movably connected to the second shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary bicycle on which exemplary suspension components disclosed herein may be used. Fig. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary front fork (a suspension component) fitted to the exemplary bicycle of Fig. 1 can be used. Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary air spring used in the exemplary front fork of Fig. 2 can be used on the exemplary bicycle. Fig. Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the section of Fig. Figure 3, showing an exemplary piston movably connected to an exemplary shaft by a double spring configuration. Fig. Figure 5 shows the exemplary shaft of Fig. 4, which is moved in a first direction relative to the exemplary piston. Fig. Figure 6 shows the exemplary shaft of Fig. 4, which is moved in a second direction relative to the exemplary piston. Fig. Figure 7 shows an exemplary air bypass feature found in the exemplary air spring of Fig. 3 can be used. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary damper used in the exemplary front fork of Fig. 2 can be used on the exemplary bicycle. Fig. Figure 9 is an enlarged view of the section of Fig. Figure 8, which shows an exemplary damping element movably connected to an exemplary shaft by a double spring configuration. Fig. Figure 10 shows the exemplary shaft of Fig. 8, which is moved in a first direction relative to the exemplary damping element. Fig. Figure 11 shows the exemplary shaft of Fig. 8, which is moved in a second direction relative to the exemplary damping element. Fig. 12 shows the exemplary damping element of Fig. 8 with sample washers. Fig. Figure 13 shows an exemplary flow path of a fluid through the exemplary damping element of Fig. 12 in a first direction. Fig. Figure 14 shows an exemplary flow path of a fluid through the exemplary damping element of Fig. 12 in a second direction. Fig. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary damper used in the exemplary front fork of Fig. 2 can be used. Fig. Figure 16 is an enlarged view of the section of Fig. 15, which shows an exemplary damping element movably connected to an exemplary shaft by a single spring configuration. Fig. Figure 17 shows the exemplary shaft of Fig. 16, which is moved in a first direction relative to the exemplary damping element. Fig. Figure 18 shows the exemplary shaft of Fig. 16, which is moved in a second direction relative to the exemplary damping element.

[0006] The figures are not to scale. The thickness of layers or areas in the drawings may instead be shown enlarged. Generally, the same reference symbols are used in the drawing(s) and the accompanying written description to refer to identical or similar parts.

[0007] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used herein to designate multiple elements or components that may be referred to separately. Unless otherwise specified or evident from the context, these designations have no significance regarding priority or chronological sequence but serve merely to identify multiple elements or components for the sake of clarity in the disclosed examples. In some examples, the term "first" may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while a different designation, such as "second" or "third," may be used for the same element in a claim. In such cases, these designations are used simply for the sake of simplicity to refer to multiple elements or components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] This document discloses exemplary suspension components that may be used on a vehicle, such as a bicycle. One exemplary suspension component disclosed herein is a front fork that connects the frame to the front wheel. The front fork may have a first and second leg, formed by a first and second upper leg section (tubes) arranged telescopically with a corresponding first and second lower leg section. The first and second upper leg sections are connected to the frame, and the first and second lower leg sections are connected to the front wheel. The front fork may include a damper and a spring, such as an air spring, which work together to absorb shock impulses. The damper may be located in the first upper and lower sections of the first leg, and the air spring may be located in the second upper and lower sections of the second leg.

[0009] In conventional front forks, the damper and spring require a certain breakaway force before the upper and lower legs can move relative to each other. Specifically, the damper and air spring may contain pistons with seals that require a certain force to overcome static friction before the legs can move relative to each other. Furthermore, a slight force imbalance may exist within the air spring between the negative air chamber and the position air chamber, creating a pressure plateau that increases the breakaway force in the top-out position. This static friction must also be overcome each time the direction of movement changes (e.g., from extension to compression). Therefore, during force buildup, there is a slight delay before the upper and lower legs begin to move. This results in a static sliding effect that the rider can feel at the handlebars.Furthermore, the shock absorber and spring typically do not absorb high-frequency vibrations (e.g., frequencies above 5 Hertz (Hz)) with lower amplitude, such as those encountered on surfaces with small bumps. Instead, these high-frequency vibrations are transmitted through the front fork to the frame and thus perceived by the rider. Some riders attempt to compensate for this effect by reducing tire pressure. However, this may compromise safety, as the tires can flex on the rims, potentially causing the rider to lose control. Additionally, reduced tire pressure increases the likelihood of a puncture (the tire being punctured by the rim), resistance, and the effort required for pedaling.

[0010] This document discloses exemplary dampers and exemplary air springs having movable piston and shaft configurations. This allows relative movement of the upper and lower leg sections without overcoming friction in the seals of the damper and air spring components. The exemplary movable piston and shaft configurations disclosed herein may include one or more damping elements between the pistons and shafts. In some examples, the damping elements are designed as springs (e.g., metallic coil springs). In other examples, the damping elements may be designed as elastomeric elements (e.g., rubber buffers) or damping elements of other types. Therefore, for example, when driving over a bump, the first and second lower leg sections may move upward relative to the first and second upper leg sections before the breakaway force is reached.The exemplary movable piston and shaft configurations allow the front fork to absorb shocks and impacts more quickly. Furthermore, these configurations also absorb high-frequency vibrations, such as frequencies above 5 Hz, which would otherwise be transmitted to the handlebars and felt by the rider. The lower leg sections (attached to the wheel) can flutter or vibrate independently of the upper leg sections, thus reducing vibrations perceived by the rider. Therefore, low-frequency vibrations are partially absorbed by the exemplary movable piston and shaft configurations until the damper and air spring compress or expand due to breakaway force, while high-frequency vibrations are absorbed by the same configuration.The exemplary movable piston and shaft configurations revealed herein reduce the vibrations perceived by the rider at the handlebars, thus increasing riding comfort. Furthermore, the rider's confidence in the traction and grip of the wheels is enhanced.

[0011] An exemplary air spring disclosed herein comprises an air spring body, a piston within the air spring body, and a shaft. The air spring body may correspond to an upper leg section or tube of the front fork. The piston is arranged within the air spring body and divides the air spring body into a first chamber (e.g., a positive air chamber) and a second chamber (e.g., a negative air chamber). The shaft is connected to a lower leg section and extends into the air spring body. Unlike known air springs, the shaft and piston are movably connected. Thus, the piston and shaft can move relative to each other. In some examples, the shaft extends through the piston, and the piston is displaceable along the shaft (and vice versa). In some examples, one or more damping elements, e.g., springs, are arranged between the shaft and the piston.For example, a first spring is arranged around the shaft and pre-tensions the piston in a first direction relative to the shaft (or, put another way, the spring pre-tensions the shaft in a second direction relative to the piston, opposite to the first direction). In some examples, a second spring is provided on the side of the piston opposite the first spring. In other examples, only one spring is used. When a compressive force is applied to the front fork, for example, the lower leg section with the shaft moves upwards relative to the upper leg section. As the shaft slides through the piston, one of the springs is compressed and the other spring is extended. This allows the lower leg section to move upwards relative to the upper leg section before the piston reaches its breakaway force and begins to move within the air spring body. Once the breakaway force is reached, the piston slides within the air spring body.Low-frequency vibrations are transmitted via the shaft to the piston until the breakaway force is reached and the air spring is compressed. Because the springs are located on opposite sides of the piston, in some cases the force initiating movement of the lower leg section relative to the upper leg section is zero. When no compressive force is applied, the spring(s) compress the lower leg section back to its original position relative to the upper leg section. The reverse reaction can occur during rebound. The spring(s) therefore act as a spring in series with the air spring, thus enabling relative movement between the upper and lower leg sections. The spring(s) also absorb high-frequency vibrations that the damper and / or air spring would otherwise not absorb.

[0012] An exemplary damper disclosed herein may have a similar arrangement to the exemplary air spring disclosed above. The damper may, for example, have a damper body, a piston (sometimes called a damping element) within the damper body, and a shaft. The piston is arranged within the damper body and divides the damper body into a first chamber and a second chamber. The piston may have one or more channels to allow a fluid to flow over the piston between the first and second chambers. The shaft is connected to a lower leg section and extends into the damper body. The shaft and piston are movably connected, so the piston and shaft can move relative to each other. In some examples, the shaft extends through the piston, and the piston is displaceable along the shaft (and vice versa). In some examples, one or more damping elements, such as...Springs are connected between the shaft and the piston. Thus, the damper functions similarly to an air spring to allow relative movement between a lower and an upper leg section. In other examples, however, only either the air spring or the damper can have a piston that is movably connected to a shaft.

[0013] Regarding the characters: Fig. Figure 1 shows an example of a human-powered vehicle in which the exemplary suspension components disclosed herein can be used. In this example, the vehicle is a possible type of bicycle 100, e.g., a mountain bike. In the illustrated example, the bicycle 100 comprises a frame 102, a front wheel 104, and a rear wheel 106, which are rotatably connected to the frame 102. In the illustrated example, the front wheel 104 is connected to the front end of the frame 102 via a front fork 108. A forward-facing direction of travel or orientation of the bicycle 100 is indicated by the direction of arrow A in Figure 1. Fig. 1 is displayed. A forward direction of travel for bicycle 100 is therefore indicated by the direction of arrow A.

[0014] In the example shown of Fig. Figure 1 of the bicycle 100 comprises a seat 110, which is connected to the frame 102 (e.g., near the rear end of the frame 102 with respect to the forward direction A) via a seat post 112. The bicycle 100 also comprises handlebars 114, connected to the frame 102 and the front fork 108 (e.g., near a front end of the frame 102 with respect to a forward direction A), for steering the bicycle 100. The bicycle 100 is shown on a riding surface 116. The riding surface 116 can be any surface, such as the ground (e.g., a dirt path, a sidewalk, a road, etc.), an artificial structure above the ground (e.g., a wooden ramp), and / or another surface.

[0015] In the illustrated example, the bicycle 100 comprises a drivetrain 118 with a crank assembly 120. The crank assembly 120 is connected via a chain 122 to a chainring assembly 124 attached to a hub 126 of the rear wheel 106. The crank assembly 120 comprises at least one, normally two, crank arms 128 and pedals 130, as well as at least one front chainring or chainring 132. A rear shifting device 134, e.g., a derailleur, is arranged on the rear wheel 106 to move the chain 122 through different chainrings of the chainring assembly 124. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle 100 may have a front shifting device to move the chain 122 through the gears on the chainring 132.

[0016] The example bicycle 100 comprises a suspension system with one or more suspension components. In this example, the front fork 108 is configured as the front suspension component. The front fork 108 is or comprises a shock absorber with a spring and a damper, as detailed herein. Furthermore, the bicycle 100 in the illustrated example comprises a rear suspension component 136, which is a shock absorber referred to herein as the rear shock absorber 136. The rear shock absorber 136 is connected between two sections of the frame 102 and comprises a swingarm 138 connected to the rear wheel 106. The front fork 108 and the rear shock absorber 136 absorb shocks and vibrations while riding the bicycle 100 (e.g., when riding on rough terrain).In other examples, the front fork 108 and / or the rear shock absorber 136 may be integrated into the bicycle 100 in other configurations or arrangements. Furthermore, in other examples, the suspension system may use only one suspension component (e.g., only the front fork 108) or more than two suspension components (e.g., an additional suspension component on the seat post 112) in addition to or as an alternative to the front fork 108 and the rear shock absorber 136.

[0017] While that in Fig. Although the example bicycle shown in Figure 100 is a mountain bike, the exemplary suspension components disclosed herein can also be used on other types of bicycles. For example, the disclosed suspension components can be used on racing bicycles as well as bicycles with mechanical (e.g., cables, hydraulics, pneumatics, etc.) and non-mechanical (e.g., wired, wireless) drive systems. The disclosed suspension components can also be used on other types of human-powered two-, three-, and four-wheeled vehicles. Furthermore, the exemplary suspension components can be used on other types of vehicles, e.g., motor vehicles (e.g., motorcycles, cars, trucks, etc.).

[0018] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the exemplary front fork 108 (a suspension component), which may include an exemplary spring (e.g., an air spring) and / or an exemplary damper disclosed herein. In the Fig. In the example shown, the front fork 108 comprises a steerer tube 200, a crown 202, a first leg 204, and a second leg 206. In this example, the first and second legs 204, 206 comprise a first and second upper tube 208, 210 (sometimes called leg sections or stanchions), respectively, and a first and second lower tube 212, 214 (sometimes called leg sections or sliders). The first and second tubes 208, 210 can be referred to together as the upper tube assembly, and the first and second lower tubes 212, 214 can be referred to together as the lower tube assembly. The steerer tube 200 is connected to the frame 102 ( Fig. 1) and the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) connected. The first and second upper tubes 208, 210 are connected via the crown 202. In some examples, the first and second lower tubes 212, 214 are connected via a bridge (sometimes called a fork stay or stabilizer). The first and second lower tubes 212, 214 each include sections for attaching the front wheel 216, 218, e.g., holes (e.g., eyelets) or dropouts for attaching the front wheel 104 ( Fig. 1) on the front fork 108. The first and second upper tubes 208, 210 are slidably mounted in the first and second lower tubes 212, 214, respectively. The first and second upper tubes 208, 210 are thus arranged telescopically with the first and second lower tubes 212, 214, respectively. During compression, the first and second upper tubes 208, 210 move into or towards the first and second lower tubes 212, 214, respectively, and during rebound, the first and second upper tubes 208, 210 move out of or away from the first and second lower tubes 212, 214, respectively.

[0019] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the first upper tube 208 has a first end 220, hereinafter referred to as the upper end 220, and a second end 222 opposite the upper end 220, hereinafter referred to as the lower end 222. The upper end 220 is connected to the crown 202. The first lower tube 212 has a first end 224, hereinafter referred to as the upper end 224, and a second end 226 opposite the upper end 224, hereinafter referred to as the lower end 226. The lower end 222 of the first upper tube 208 is located inside the first lower tube 212. The upper end 220 of the first upper tube 208 and the lower end 226 of the first lower tube 212 form the first and second distal ends of the suspension component. During compression, the upper end 220 (the first distal end) and the lower end 226 (the second distal end) move towards each other, and during extension or rebound, the upper end 220 and the lower end 226 move away from each other.The first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 are thus arranged telescopically and define an interior space 228. The first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 move along a first translational axis 230. The second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 are arranged similarly. In particular, the second upper tube 210 has a first end 232, hereinafter referred to as the upper end 232, and a second end 234 opposite the upper end 232, hereinafter referred to as the lower end 234. The second lower tube 214 has a first end 236, hereinafter referred to as the upper end 236, and a second end 238 opposite the upper end 236, hereinafter referred to as the lower end 238. The upper end 232 of the second upper tube 210 is connected to the crown 202, and the lower end 238 of the second upper tube 210 is arranged in the second lower tube 214. The second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 are thus arranged telescopically and define an interior space 240.The second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 move along a second translational axis 242.

[0020] In the illustrated example, the front fork 108 comprises both a spring 244 and a damper 246. In this example, the spring 244 is designed as an air spring, which is referred to herein as the air spring 244. The air spring 244 is arranged in and / or otherwise integrated within the second upper and lower tube 210, 214, and the damper 246 is arranged in and / or otherwise integrated within the first upper and lower tube 208, 212. More precisely, the air spring 244 is arranged in and / or otherwise defined by the interior space 240 of the second upper and lower tube 210, 214, which is bounded by the walls of the second upper and lower tube 210, 214. Similarly, the damper 246 is arranged in and / or otherwise bounded by the interior space 228 formed by the walls of the first upper and lower tube 208, 212.In further examples, the air spring 244 can be arranged in and / or otherwise integrated within the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212, and the damper 246 can be arranged in and / or otherwise integrated within the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214. The air spring 244 is configured to counteract the compression of the upper ends 220, 232 towards the lower ends 226, 238 and to return the tubes 208, 210, 212, 214 to their extended position after compression. The damper 246 is configured to limit the rate of compression / expansion and / or to absorb vibrations.

[0021] The air spring 244 comprises an air spring body that defines one or more pneumatic chambers. In this example, the second upper tube 210 is designed as the air spring body. Therefore, the second upper tube 210 can also be referred to as the air spring body 210. However, in other examples, a separate air spring body can also be arranged in the second upper tube 210. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the air spring 244 comprises a first shaft 248 (which may also be referred to as a spring or piston shaft, rod, or spindle). The first shaft 248 is connected to the lower end 238 of the second lower tube 214 and extends upwards from there. The first shaft 248 extends into the second upper tube 210. Specifically, the first shaft 248 extends through a seal 250 in the lower end 234 of the second upper tube 210 and into the interior 240 of the second upper tube 210. The air spring 244 comprises a piston 252 in the second upper tube 210 (i.e., in the interior 240 of the second upper tube 210). The piston 252 is movably connected to the first shaft 248, as detailed herein. The piston 252 is displaceable within the second upper tube 210. In some examples, a seal is arranged around the piston 252, creating a seal between the piston 252 and the inner surface of the second upper tube 210.The piston 252 divides the interior space 240 in the second upper tube 210 into a first chamber 254 and a second chamber 256 (also referred to as pneumatic chambers). The first chamber 254 is formed between the piston 252 and an upper barrier, e.g., a cap 258, in the upper end 232 of the second upper tube 210. The second chamber 256 is formed between the piston 252 and the seal 250 in the lower end 234 of the second upper tube 210.

[0022] In some examples, the first chamber 254 is filled with a quantity of pneumatic fluid (e.g., a gas such as air) that has a higher pressure than the ambient pressure. Therefore, in this example, the first chamber 254 forms a pressure chamber (sometimes also referred to as a high-pressure zone or positive spring chamber). In some examples, the second chamber 256 forms a negative spring chamber below the piston 252. When the front fork 108 compresses and the ends of the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 move towards each other, for example, when driving over a bump, the first shaft 248 moves the piston 252 towards the upper end 232 of the second upper tube 210. This reduces the volume of the first chamber 254 and increases the pressure of the fluid in the first chamber 254. Conversely, the volume of the second chamber 256 increases and the pressure of the fluid in the second chamber 256 decreases.When no pressure force is applied, the increased pressure in the first chamber 254 and the decreased pressure in the second chamber 256 cause the piston 252 to move away from the upper end 232, thus pushing the ends of the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 apart. This causes them to act as a spring, returning the front fork 108 to its original or riding position. The first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 follow this movement in a similar manner.

[0023] In other examples, the air spring 244 can be implemented by a physical spring, e.g., a coil spring. For instance, a coil spring can be arranged in the second upper tube 210 between the first shaft 248 and the upper end 232 of the second upper tube 210. When the front fork 108 compresses, the first shaft 248 moves upward and compresses the coil spring. After compression, the coil spring extends the front fork 108 back to its original or driving position. In other examples, the air spring 244 can be implemented by other types of fluid springs and / or physical spring configurations.

[0024] In the illustrated example, the damper 246 comprises a damper body 260, which defines a chamber 262. The damper body 260 is arranged in and connected to the first upper tube 208. The chamber 262 is filled with a fluid. This fluid can be, for example, oil, such as a mineral oil-based damper fluid. In other examples, other types of damper fluids can also be used (e.g., silicone- or glycol-like fluids). The damper 246 comprises a second shaft 264 (which can also be referred to as a damper or piston shaft, rod, or spindle). The second shaft 264 is connected to the lower end 226 of the first lower tube 212 and extends upwards from there. The second shaft 264 extends into the damper body 260. In particular, the second shaft 264 extends through a seal 266 in the base of the damper body 260 and into the chamber 262 of the damper body 260.The damper 246 comprises a damping element 268 (which may also be referred to as a piston or center valve) arranged in the chamber 262 of the damper body 260. The damping element 268 is movably connected to the second shaft 264, as detailed herein. The damping element 268 is displaceable within the damper body 260. The damping element 268 divides the chamber 262 into a first chamber and a second chamber (in conjunction with...). Fig. 8 shown in more detail). In some examples, a seal (e.g., an O-ring) is arranged around the damping element 268 to prevent fluid from escaping between the outside of the damping element 268 and the inner surface of the damping body 260. When the front fork 108 compresses and the ends of the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 move towards each other, e.g. For example, when driving over a bump, the second shaft 264 moves the damping element 268 upwards in the chamber 262 towards the upper end 220 of the first upper tube 208. During rebound, the damping element 268 moves downwards in the chamber 262, away from the upper end 220 of the first upper tube 208. The damping element 268 has one or more channels through which a fluid with a limited volume flow can flow between the first and second chambers over the damping element 268.

[0025] As revealed above, the air spring 244 and the damper 246 comprise several seals (e.g., the seal between the piston 252 and the inner wall of the second upper tube 210, the seal 250, the seal between the damper element 268 and the inner wall of the damper body 260, the seal 266, etc.). These seals exhibit static friction, which must be overcome to compress or extend the front fork 108. Although this static friction is relatively small, it can cause a delay in the compression or rebound movement. For example, if a compressive force is applied to the front fork 108, the upper and lower tubes 208, 210, 212, 214 may remain in the same ratio (i.e., no movement) until the force is high enough to overcome the static friction. Once the static friction is overcome, the components (e.g.,(sliding) the components of the air spring 244 and the damper 246, which allows the upper and lower tubes 208, 210, 212, 214 to move relative to each other. This deceleration can lead to undesirable stiction sliding, which the rider can perceive at the handlebars. Furthermore, the air spring 244 and the damper 246 do not absorb high-frequency vibrations (e.g., frequencies above 5 Hz) with lower amplitude. Instead, these high-frequency vibrations are transmitted via the front fork 108 to the handlebars 114 (. Fig. 1) transmitted and thus perceived by the driver. To counteract the aforementioned disadvantages, the air spring 244 and / or the damper 246 may include pistons that are movable relative to the shaft, as detailed herein.

[0026] Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary air spring 244 in an extended or unloaded state. The first shaft 248 extends through the seal 250 and into the second upper tube 210. The piston 252 is connected to the first shaft 248. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the piston 252 divides the interior of the second upper tube 210 into the first chamber 254 (the positive air chamber) and the second chamber 256 (the negative air chamber). In some examples, the cap 258 has an air filling opening 300 through which air can be added to or removed from the first chamber 254.

[0027] Fig. Figure 4 is an enlarged view of section 302 of Fig. 3. The piston 252 is arranged near one end 400 of the first shaft 248. The piston 252 is movably connected to the first shaft 248. This allows the first shaft 248 and the piston 252 to move relative to each other, thereby allowing the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 to move relative to each other (compress or rebound). In the illustrated example, the first shaft 248 extends through the piston 252. In particular, the piston 252 has an opening 402 through which the first shaft 248 extends. The piston 252 is displaceable along the first shaft 248, and the first shaft 248 is displaceable through the piston 252. Thus, the first shaft 248 and the piston 252 can slide axially relative to each other. In this way, the first shaft 248 and the piston 252 are movably connected. In other examples, the first shaft 248 and the piston 252 can be movably connected in other configurations or arrangements.For example, the piston 252 can be arranged above the first shaft 248 and connected to the first shaft 248 by a spring.

[0028] In the illustrated example, the air spring 244 comprises an outer seal 404 arranged in an outer sealing bushing 406 formed in an outer circumferential edge of the piston 252. The outer seal 404 serves to seal between the piston 252 and an inner surface 408 of the second upper tube 210. In the illustrated example, the air spring 244 further comprises an inner seal 410 arranged in an inner sealing bushing 412 formed in an inner circumferential edge of the piston 252. The inner seal 410 serves to seal between the piston 252 and the first shaft 248. The piston 252 thus forms an airtight chamber in the first chamber 254 and the second chamber 256. In other examples, the air spring 244 may not have an outer seal 404 and / or an inner seal 410.

[0029] The air spring 244 can include one or more damping elements to control the relative movement of the first shaft 248 and the piston 252. In some examples, the damping elements are designed as springs. In the example shown, the air spring 244 has a double spring configuration. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the air spring 244 comprises, for example, a first spring 414 arranged above the piston 252 and a second spring 416 arranged below the piston 252. The second spring 416 is thus located on the side of the piston 252 opposite the first spring 414. The first spring 414 pre-tensions the piston 252 in a first direction relative to the first shaft 248, and the second spring 416 pre-tensions the piston 252 in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the first shaft 248. In other words, the first spring 414 pre-tensions the first shaft 248 in a first direction relative to the piston 252, and the second spring 416 pre-tensions the first shaft 248 in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the piston 252.

[0030] In the illustrated example, the air spring comprises a first bracket 418 connected to the first shaft 248, and a second bracket 420 also connected to the first shaft 248. The first spring 414 is arranged between the first bracket 418 and the piston 252 (e.g., axially clamped), and the second spring 416 is arranged between the second bracket 420 and the piston 252 (e.g., axially clamped). In some examples, the first and second brackets 418, 420 are retaining rings (sometimes also called C-clips, rotor clips, or snap rings). In some examples, the first spring 414 is rigidly connected to or attached to the first bracket 418 and / or the piston 252 (e.g., by welding, fasteners, etc.). In other examples, the first spring 414 is not firmly attached to the first bracket 418 or the piston 252, but is merely compressed or clamped between the two parts.The second spring 416 can be arranged similarly between the second bracket 420 and the piston 252. In the example shown, the first and second springs 414, 416 are arranged around the first shaft 248 (e.g., concentrically or coaxially). In other examples, however, the first and / or second spring 414, 416 can be arranged at different locations.

[0031] In some examples, the first and second springs 414 and 416 are compression springs. As such, the first spring 414 pre-tensions the piston 252 downwards relative to the first shaft 248, and the second spring 416 pre-tensions the piston 252 upwards relative to the first shaft 248. In this example, the first and second springs 414 and 416 are conical helical springs. In some examples, conical springs are advantageous because they have lower tension (due to the greater wire length), less buckling (due to the greater width), and a lower height. Furthermore, due to their greater width, the first and second springs 414 and 416 contact the piston 252 near its outer edge, which increases stability. In other examples, the springs 414 and 416 may be designed as helical springs of a different type and / or springs of a different type (e.g., leaf springs). In other examples, the first and second springs 414, 416 can be designed as tension springs.

[0032] In this example, springs 414 and 416 provide essentially the same preload force. The piston 252 is therefore in a rest position essentially centered between the first and second supports 418 and 420, as shown in Fig. 4 is shown. For example, in Fig. Figure 4 marks a center line 422, which represents the midpoint between the first and second supports 418, 420. In this example, the piston 252 is located at rest, or in its rest position, centered on the center line 422. Specifically, a distance D1 between a top surface of the piston 252 and the center line 422 corresponds to a distance D2 between a bottom surface of the piston 252 and the center line 422. In other examples, the springs 414, 416 can be configured (e.g., by changing the length of the springs 414, 416 and / or the spring constants) such that the piston 252 is offset from the center line 422 when at rest. In some examples, the first and / or second spring 414, 416 are in a compressed state when the piston 252 is at rest. In other examples, the first and / or second spring 414, 416 may be in a relaxed state.

[0033] The movable piston and shaft configuration and the springs 414, 416 enable relative movement between the second upper tube 210, which is attached to the frame 102 and is considered the sprung mass, and the second lower tube 214, which is attached to the front wheel 104 and is considered the unsprung side of the suspension component. The first shaft 248, the piston 252, and the springs 414, 416 therefore control the movement of the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 along the second translational axis 242 ( Fig. 2).

[0034] Fig. Figure 5 shows that the first shaft 248 is moved upwards (e.g., in a first direction) relative to the piston 252. This can occur when a compressive force is exerted on the air spring 244, e.g., when driving over a bump. For example, if a compressive force is applied to the front fork 108 for the first time ( Fig. 2) exercised, the second lower pipe 214 ( Fig. 2) and the first shaft 248 is pushed upwards relative to the second upper tube 210 (as indicated by the arrow). There is some friction between the piston 252 and the second upper tube 210 (at the interface between the outer seal 404 and the inner surface 408), which holds the piston 252 in position until the breakaway force (threshold) is reached. During the initial compression stroke, the first shaft 248 moves upwards relative to the piston 252 (e.g., the first shaft 248 slides through the piston 252). This movement compresses the second spring 416 and extends the first spring 414. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the distance D2 is, for example, greater than the distance D1. This configuration allows the second lower tube 214 (the unsprung mass) to move upwards relative to the second upper tube 210 before the breakaway force for the piston 252 is reached, enabling the front fork 108 to absorb vibrations more quickly during compression and improving responsiveness. Furthermore, this results in a temporarily reduced compression rate of the piston 252 relative to the first shaft 248, thereby reducing the acceleration rate and thus the temporary compression force acting on the air spring 244. If the compressive force is relatively low, e.g., when driving over a small bump, the piston 252 may not move at all relative to the second upper tube 210 (due to static friction).When no pressure force is applied, the first and second springs 414, 416 work together to move the first shaft 248 and the second lower tube 214 downwards into the rest position (shown in . Fig. 4) The movable piston and shaft configuration of the air spring 244 therefore allows smaller shocks and vibrations to be absorbed that would otherwise be transmitted to the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) In some examples, the second spring 416 is in the Fig. The piston 252 is fully compressed in the state shown in section 5. Therefore, any further upward movement of the first shaft 248 also moves the piston 252 upwards.

[0035] If the compressive force is high enough, the breakaway force is reached and the first shaft 248 moves (pushes) the piston 252 upwards in the second upper tube 210, thereby further compressing the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214. During this compression movement, the piston 252 can move within the Fig. The spring remains in the state shown in Figure 5, in which the first spring 414 is extended and the second spring 416 is compressed. As soon as no compressive force is applied, the piston 252 is pushed downwards by the pressure difference between the first and second chambers 254, 256, causing the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 to expand. In some examples, the piston 252 can return to its rest position during the transition between compression and rebound movement, as shown in Figure 5. Fig. 4 shown. In other examples, however, the piston 252 can be located in the Fig. The piston remains in the position shown in section 5. In some examples, the piston 252 also remains in the position shown during rebound. Fig. 5 position shown. Once the air spring 244 has expanded, the first and second springs 414, 416 work together to return the piston 252 to its rest position relative to the first shaft 248 ( Fig. 4) to move.

[0036] In some cases, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the first shaft 248 can also move downwards relative to the piston 252. This movement compresses the first spring 414 and extends the second spring 416. This moves the piston 252 into a position where the distance D1 is greater than the distance D2. This can occur during compression, the transition between compression and rebound, during rebound, and / or when the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 move apart. This results in a temporarily reduced rebound velocity of the piston 252 relative to the first shaft 248, thereby reducing the rebound force temporarily acting on the air spring 244. Reducing the forces temporarily acting on the air spring 244 improves the suspension characteristics, the handling of the system, and the user experience.

[0037] The movable piston and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 414, 416 therefore absorb high-frequency vibrations with low amplitude, which would otherwise be transmitted to the handlebar 114 through the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214 ( Fig. 1) The movable piston and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 414, 416 can be considered frequency-sensitive. In particular, long and slow input is partially absorbed by the first and second springs 414, 416 and transmitted to the piston 252, while fast and short input is mainly absorbed by the first and second springs 414, 416. In this way, the movable piston and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 414, 416 reduce the vibrations perceptible at the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) This allows the air spring 244 to absorb small compressive forces caused by uneven surfaces. The exemplary configuration improves the suspension behavior, the system's handling, and its performance.

[0038] In some examples, the first and second springs 441, 416 are arranged to remain in contact with the piston 252 and the supports 418, 420 (and thus with the first shaft 248) at all times. This ensures smooth, stabilized movement between the first shaft 248 and thus between the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214.

[0039] In some examples, the first shaft 248 and the piston 252 are movable relative to each other by approximately 4 mm in one direction (thus allowing a travel of approximately 8 mm between the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214). In other examples, the relative movement can be greater or lesser depending on the magnitude of the force, the spring constants of the springs 414, 416, and / or the breakaway force of the air spring 244 and the damper 246. In other examples, the range of movement can be, for instance, approximately 10 mm. In some examples, springs on both sides of the piston 252 are advantageous because the net force required to initiate movement in both directions is zero (or within an infinitesimal tolerance of zero). Unlike known front forks, therefore, no specific force is required to overcome friction or breakaway force to initiate movement in the exemplary front fork 108.Instead, any net compressive or extensive force can lead to a relative movement of the second upper and lower tubes 210, 214. The result is less vibration or shock transmitted via the front fork 108 to the handlebars 114 (. Fig. 1) In some examples, the first and second springs 414, 416, arranged on opposite sides of the piston 252, reduce any gap behind the piston 252 that could cause a shock when the force is applied. Therefore, in some examples, a spring on both sides of the piston 252 results in a more stable and uniform movement. In other examples, however, only one spring can be used, which is still advantageous for achieving the results described herein. Furthermore, the use of only one spring can also serve to achieve specific movements in one direction. For example, a spring can be used so that the piston or damper element moves only during a compression movement and / or is preloaded when a compression movement is greater than a rebound movement.

[0040] The first and second springs 414, 416 also absorb high-frequency vibrations with low amplitude, which otherwise could not be absorbed by the front fork 108. For example, when riding on undulating terrain, the second lower tube 214 can flutter relative to the second upper tube 210 due to the first and second springs 414, 416. In this way, these high-frequency vibrations with low amplitude are not transmitted to the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) In some examples, the movable piston and shaft configuration in the second upper tube 210 helps to protect these moving components from dirt or debris.

[0041] While in the illustrated example the air spring 244 comprises the first and second springs 414, 416, in other examples the air spring 244 may comprise only one of the springs. For example, only the second spring 416 may be present. In such an example, the first shaft 248 and the piston 252 can still move relative to each other by means of the second spring 416 to absorb vibrations. In such an example, the second spring 416 may be connected to the piston 252 and / or the air spring 244 may have a stop (e.g., near the end of the first shaft 248) that prevents the piston 252 from moving beyond the first shaft 248. An example of a single-spring configuration is shown in conjunction with the damper 246 in Fig. Figures 15-18 illustrate this and it can be implemented similarly in conjunction with the air spring 244. While in this example the damping elements are designed as springs, in other examples the damping elements can be designed as other components, such as one or more elastomer elements (e.g. nitrile rubber).

[0042] In some examples, the air spring 244 may have an air bypass feature so that the air (or another fluid in the air spring 244) in the first and second chambers 254, 256 can be equalized during and / or after compression / rebound. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the inner surface 408 of the second upper tube 210 has, for example, a recess 700 (e.g., a notch, a groove, etc.) to allow air to bypass the piston 252 during compression or rebound. Specifically, when the piston 252 passes through the recess 700 (during compression or rebound), the air in the first and / or second chamber 254, 256 can bypass the piston 252 (and the outer seal 404), thus equalizing the pressure in the first chamber 254 (positive air chamber) and the second chamber 256 (negative air chamber). The bypass function is position-dependent with respect to the top-out position. In particular, the bypass feature (e.g., the recess 700) can be located at a specific distance (e.g., 20 mm) from the top-out position of the piston 252 to achieve the desired effects.For example, during a rebound cycle, the piston 252 reaches the bypass feature, equalizes the pressure, and then continues moving toward the top-out position, thereby disabling the bypass and slightly compressing the air in the second chamber 256 (negative air chamber). Therefore, the compressed air in the second chamber 256 counteracts the initial breakaway force of the intrinsic pressure in the first chamber 254 (positive air chamber). In other examples, however, the air spring 244 may not have such an air bypass feature. In other examples, the air spring 244 may have sufficient compliance and not include a negative air chamber (second chamber 256). In some of these examples, the air spring 244 may have a ramp to attenuate the inherent positive spring platform. In some examples, the second chamber 256 may be replaced by a physical spring, such as a coil spring or an elastomeric element.

[0043] The one in conjunction with the air spring 244 in Fig. The exemplary movable piston and spring configuration disclosed in Figure 3-6 can be implemented in a similar manner in conjunction with the damper 246. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary damper 246 in an extended or unloaded state. The second shaft 264 extends through the seal 266 and into the damper body 260. The damping element 268 is connected to the second shaft 264 and is arranged in the chamber 262 of the damper body 260. The damping element 268 is slidable within the damper body 260. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the damping element 268 divides the chamber 262 into a first chamber 800 and a second chamber 802. The first and second chambers 800 and 802 are filled with fluid. The front fork 108 ( Fig. 2) and the ends of the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 move ( Fig. 2) When moving towards each other, e.g. when driving over an uneven surface, the second shaft 264 moves the damping element 268 upwards in the chamber 262 towards an upper end 803 of the damping body 260. During rebound, the damping element 268 moves downwards in the chamber 262, away from the upper end 803 of the first upper tube 208.

[0044] In some examples, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the damper 246 includes an internal floating piston (IFP) 804 in chamber 262, which can slide up or down to change the volume of a storage chamber 806. In some examples, a user (e.g., a cyclist) can interact with the storage chamber 806 (e.g., via a control knob) to change the resistance of the IFP 804 and thus influence the compression damping rate.

[0045] Fig. Figure 9 is an enlarged view of section 808 of Fig. 8. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the damping element 268 has one or more channels or fluid paths extending through it so that the fluid can flow between the first and second chambers 800, 802. The example shown depicts the first and second channels 900, 901. In other examples, the damping element 268 may have more or fewer channels. If the front fork 108 ( Fig. 2) For example, when the fluid is forced through the damping element 268 and flows from the first chamber 800 into the second chamber 802, the fluid is forced through the damping element 268 and flows from the second chamber 802 into the first chamber 800. Conversely, when the front fork 108 rebounds or extends (e.g., due to the restoring force of the air spring 244), the fluid is forced through the damping element 268 and flows from the second chamber 802 into the first chamber 800. The damping element 268 limits the volume flow of the fluid between the first and second chambers 800, 802, thereby damping the movement of the front fork 108 and thus influencing the speed at which the front fork 108 compresses and / or rebounds.

[0046] The damping element 268 is movably connected to the second shaft 264. This allows the second shaft 264 and the damping element 268 to move relative to each other, thereby allowing the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 to move relative to each other (compress or rebound). In the illustrated example, the second shaft 264 extends through the damping element 268. In particular, the damping element 268 has an opening 902 through which the second shaft 264 extends. The damping element 268 is displaceable along the second shaft 264, and the second shaft 264 is displaceable through the damping element 268. Therefore, the second shaft 264 and the damping element 268 can slide axially relative to each other. In this way, the second shaft 264 and the damping element 268 are movably connected. In other examples, the second shaft 264 and the damping element 268 can be movably connected in other configurations or arrangements.For example, the damping element 268 can be arranged above the second shaft 264 and connected to the second shaft 264 by a spring.

[0047] The damper 246 can include one or more damping elements to control the relative movement of the second shaft 264 and the damping element 268. In some examples, the damping elements are designed as springs. In this example, the damper 246 has a double-spring configuration. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the damper 246 comprises, for example, a first spring 904 arranged above the damping element 268, and a second spring 906 arranged below the damping element 268. The second spring 906 is therefore located on the side of the damping element 268 opposite the first spring 904. The first spring 904 pre-tensions the damping element 268 in a first direction relative to the second shaft 264, and the second spring 906 pre-tensions the damping element 268 in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the second shaft 264. In other words, the first spring 904 pre-tensions the second shaft 264 in a first direction relative to the damping element 268, and the second spring 906 pre-tensions the second shaft 264 in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the damping element 268.

[0048] In the illustrated example, the damper 246 comprises a first bracket 908 connected to the second shaft 264, and a second bracket 910 also connected to the second shaft 264. The first spring 904 is arranged between the first bracket 908 and the damper element 268 (e.g., axially clamped), and the second spring 916 is arranged between the second bracket 910 and the damper element 268 (e.g., axially clamped). In some examples, the first and second brackets 908 and 910 are retaining rings. In some examples, the first spring 904 is fixedly connected to or attached to the first bracket 908 and / or the damper element 268 (e.g., by welding, fasteners, etc.). In other examples, the first spring 904 is not firmly attached to the first bracket 908 or the damping element 268, but is merely compressed or clamped between the two parts.The second spring 906 can be arranged similarly between the second bracket 910 and the damping element 268. In the example shown, the first and second springs 904, 906 are arranged around the second shaft 264 (e.g., concentrically or coaxially). In other examples, however, the first and / or second spring 940, 906 can be arranged at other locations.

[0049] In some examples, the first and second springs 904 and 906 are compression springs. As such, the first spring 904 pre-tensions the damper element 268 downwards relative to the second shaft 264, and the second spring 906 pre-tensions the damper element 268 upwards relative to the second shaft 264. In this example, the first and second springs 904 and 906 are cylindrical coil springs. In some examples, cylindrical coil springs are advantageous to reduce the disturbance of the fluid flow caused by the damper element 268. In other examples, the first and second springs 904 and 906 may be designed as other types of springs (e.g., conical coil springs). In still other examples, the first and second springs 414 and 416 may be designed as extension springs.

[0050] In this example, springs 904 and 906 provide essentially the same preload force. In a resting state, the damper element 268 is located essentially centrally between the first and second supports 908 and 910, as shown in Fig. 9 is shown. For example, in Fig. Figure 9 shows a center line 912, which represents the midpoint between the first and second supports 908, 910. In this example, the damper element 268 is centered along the center line 912 in its rest state or at rest position. In particular, a distance D1 between an upper (first) side 914 of the damper element 268 and the center line 912 corresponds to a distance D2 between a lower (second) side 916 of the damper element 268 and the center line 912. In other examples, the springs 904, 906 can be configured (e.g., by changing the length of the springs 904, 906 and / or the spring constants) such that the damper element 268 is offset from the center line 912 in its rest state. In some examples, the first and / or second spring 940, 906 are in a compressed state when the damper element 268 is in its rest position. In other examples, the first and / or second spring 904, 906 may be in a relaxed state.

[0051] Similar to the air spring 244 revealed above, the movable damper element and shaft configuration, as well as the springs 904 and 906, allow relative movement between the first upper tube 208, which is attached to the frame 102, and the first lower tube 212, which is attached to the front wheel 104. Therefore, the damper element 268, the second shaft 264, and the springs 904 and 906 control the movement of the first upper and lower tubes 208 and 212 along the first translational axis 230. Fig. 2).

[0052] Fig. Figure 10 shows that the second shaft 264 is moved upwards (e.g., in a first direction) relative to the damping element 268. This can occur when a compressive force is exerted on the damper 246, e.g., when driving over a bump. For example, when a compressive force is exerted on the front fork 108 for the first time, the first lower tube 212 ( Fig. 2) and the second shaft 264 relative to the first upper tube 208 ( Fig. 2) pushed upwards (as indicated by the arrow). There is some friction between the damping element 268 and the damping body 260 (at the interface between the damping element 268 and an inner surface 1000 of the damping body 260), which holds the damping element 268 in position until the breakaway force (threshold value) is reached. During the initial compression movement, the second shaft 264 slides upwards through the damping element 268. This movement compresses the second spring 906 and extends the first spring 904. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the distance D2 is, for example, greater than the distance D1. The first and second springs 904, 906 allow the first lower tube 212 (the unsprung mass) to move upwards relative to the first upper tube 208 before the breakaway force for the damping element 268 is reached, enabling the front fork 108 to absorb vibrations more quickly during compression and improving responsiveness. Furthermore, this leads to a temporarily reduced compression speed of the damping element 268 relative to the second shaft 264, thereby reducing the temporary compression force acting on the damper 246. If the compressive force is relatively low, e.g., when driving over a small bump, the damping element 268 may not move at all relative to the damper body 260 (due to static friction).When no pressure force is applied, the first and second springs 904, 906 work together to move the second shaft 264 and the first lower tube 212 downwards into the rest position (shown in . Fig. 9) Due to the damper element and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 904, 906, the damper 246 can therefore absorb smaller shocks and vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted to the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) In some examples, the second spring 906 is in the Fig. The second shaft 264 is fully compressed in the state shown in section 10. Therefore, any further upward movement of the second shaft 264 also moves the damping element 268 upwards.

[0053] If the compressive force is high enough, the breakaway force is reached and the shaft 264 moves (pushes) the damping element 268 upwards in the damper body 260, thereby further compressing the first upper and lower tubes 208, 2012. During this compression movement, the damping element 268 can be moved within the Fig. The state shown in Figure 10 remains, in which the first spring 904 is extended and the second spring 906 is compressed. As soon as no more compressive force is exerted, the air spring 244 ( Fig. 2) the front fork 108 (including the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212). The damping element 268 slides downwards in the damper body 260. In some examples, the damping element 268 can move back to its rest position during the transition between compression and rebound movement, as in Fig. 9 shown. In other examples, however, the damping element 268 can be shown in the Fig. The damping element 268 remains in the position shown in Figure 10. In some examples, the damping element 268 also remains in the position shown during rebound. Fig. 10 position shown. Once the front fork 108 has extended, the first and second springs 904, 906 work together to move the damping element 268 back to its rest position relative to the second shaft 264.

[0054] In some cases, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the second shaft 264 can also move downwards relative to the damping element 268. This movement compresses the first spring 904 and extends the second spring 906. This moves the damping element 268 into a position where the distance D1 is greater than the distance D2. This can occur during compression, the transition between compression and rebound, during rebound, and / or when the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 move apart. This results in a temporarily reduced rebound velocity of the damping element 268 relative to the second shaft 264, thereby reducing the rebound force temporarily acting on the damper 246. Reducing the forces temporarily acting on the damper 246 improves the suspension characteristics, the handling of the system, and the user experience.

[0055] The movable damper element and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 904, 906 therefore absorb high-frequency vibrations with low amplitude, which would otherwise be transmitted to the handlebar 114 through the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 ( Fig. 1) The movable damper element and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 904, 906 can be considered frequency-sensitive. In particular, long and slow input is partially absorbed by the first and second springs 904, 906 and transmitted to the damper element 268, while fast and short input is mainly absorbed by the first and second springs 904, 906. In this way, the movable damper element and shaft configuration and the first and second springs 904, 906 reduce the vibrations perceptible at the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) This allows the damper 246 to absorb small compressive forces caused by uneven surfaces. The exemplary configuration improves the suspension behavior, the system's handling, and performance.

[0056] In some examples, the damper 246 may include one or more washers to increase the resistance via the damping element 268. Fig. Figure 12 shows, for example, an example in which the damper 246 comprises a first washer 1200 arranged on the top side 914 of the damper element 268 and a second washer 1202 arranged on the second side 916 of the damper element 268. The first washer 1200 covers at least one of the channels on the top side 914 of the damper element 268, and the second washer 1202 covers at least one of the channels on the bottom side 916 of the damper element 268. The second washer 1202 covers different channels than the first washer 1200. For example, the first washer 1200 covers the second channel 901 in the damper element 268 on the top side 914. However, the second washer 1202 does not cover the second channel 901 on the underside 916 (e.g., the second washer 1202 may be notched or have an opening aligned with the second channel 901).Conversely, the second washer 1202 covers the first channel 900 on the underside 916, but the first washer 1200 does not cover the first channel 900 on the top side 914. The washers 1200 and 1202 can be high-resistance or low-resistance washers.

[0057] Fig. Figure 13 shows the damper 246 during compression. When the damping element 268 is moved upwards in the damper body 260 (as indicated by the arrow), the fluid in the first chamber 800 is forced through the first channel 900 and bends the second washer 1202 open, allowing it to flow into the second chamber 802. The resistance created by the second washer 1202 dampens or slows the movement of the fluid from the first chamber 800 into the second chamber 802, thereby increasing the damping during compression.

[0058] Fig. Figure 14 shows the damper 246 during rebound. When the damper element 268 is moved upwards within the damper body 260, the fluid in the second chamber 802 is forced through the second channel 901 and bends the first washer 1200 to allow it to flow into the first chamber 800. The resistance generated by the first washer 1200 dampens or slows the movement of the fluid from the second chamber 802 into the first chamber 800, thereby increasing the damping during rebound. While in this example only one washer is arranged on each side of the damper element 268, in other examples several washers (e.g., a stack of washers) can be arranged on the sides of the damper element 268. Additionally or alternatively, one or more washers can be provided on only one side of the damper element 268.

[0059] While in some of the examples disclosed above the air spring 244 and the damper 246 have dual-spring configurations, in other examples the air spring 244 and / or the damper 246 may have a single-spring configuration. For example, shows Fig. 15 is an example where the damper 246 has a spring. The one in Fig. Damper 246, shown in Figure 15, is essentially identical to the one in Figure 15. Fig. Damper 246 shown in Figure 8. Therefore, all exemplary structural and / or functional features related to Fig. 8-14 were revealed, also for the one in Fig. The exemplary dampers shown in section 15 (246) apply. Fig. However, the exemplary damper 246 has a single spring configuration.

[0060] Fig. Figure 16 is an enlarged view of section 1500 of Fig. 15. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, the damper 246 includes a spring 1600. In this example, the spring 1600 is arranged below the damper element 268. In the illustrated example, the second shaft 264 has a flange 1602 that extends radially outward from the second shaft 264. The spring 1600 is arranged between the flange 1602 and the damper element 268 (e.g., axially clamped). In some examples, the spring 1600 is fixedly connected to or attached to the flange 1602 and / or the damper element 268 (e.g., by welding, fasteners, etc.). As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, for example, a lower coil of the spring 1600 is held between the flange 1062 and a first web 1604, which extends radially outward from the second shaft 264. Similarly, an upper coil of the spring 1600 is held between the damping element 268 and a second web 1606, which extends radially outward from the underside 916 of the damping element 268. In other examples, the spring 1600 can be attached to or connected to the flange 1602 and / or the damping element 268 by other techniques (e.g., retaining rings, welding, fasteners, etc.). In still other examples, the spring 1600 is not fixedly attached to the flange 1602 or the damping element 268, but is merely compressed or wedged between the two parts.

[0061] In this example, spring 1600 is a compression spring. When spring 1600 is compressed, it pushes the damper element 268 upwards relative to the second shaft 264. However, when the damper element 268 is moved upwards, spring 1600 can be tensioned and preload the damper element 268 downwards relative to the second shaft 264. In this example, spring 1600 is a cylindrical coil spring. In other examples, spring 1600 can be a different type of spring (e.g., a conical coil spring). Furthermore, in other examples, spring 1600 can be a tension spring.

[0062] Fig. Figure 16 shows the damping element 268 centered along the centerline 912 in a resting or neutral position. In this resting or neutral position, the spring 1600 can be in a neutral state, in which it is not under compression or tension. Similar to the springs 904 and 906 shown above, the spring 1600 allows relative movement between the first upper tube 208, which is attached to the frame 102, and the first lower tube 212, which is attached to the front wheel 104. Therefore, the spring 1600 controls the movement of the first upper and lower tubes 208 and 212 along the first translational axis 230.

[0063] Fig. Figure 17 shows that the second shaft 264 is moved upwards relative to the damping element 268. This can occur when a compressive force is exerted on the damper 246. For example, during a compression movement, the first lower tube 212 ( Fig. 2) and the second shaft 264 relative to the first upper tube 208 ( Fig. 2) and the damper body 260 is pushed upwards (as indicated by the arrow). During the initial compression movement, the second shaft 264 slides upwards through the damper element 268. This movement compresses the spring 1600. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, for example, the distance D2 is greater than the distance D1. This allows the spring 1600 to move upwards relative to the first upper tube 212 (the unsprung mass) before the breakaway force for the damping element 268 is reached, enabling the front fork 108 to absorb vibrations more quickly during compression and improving responsiveness. If the compressive force is relatively low, e.g., when riding over a small bump, the damping element 268 may not move at all relative to the damping body 260 (due to static friction). When no compressive force is applied, the spring 1600 pre-tensions the second shaft 264 and the first lower tube 212 downwards into their rest position (shown in Figure 17). Fig. 16). The spring 1600 therefore allows the damper 246 to absorb smaller shocks and vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted to the handlebar 114 ( Fig. 1) In some examples, the second spring 906 is in the Fig. The second shaft 264 is fully compressed in the state shown in section 10. Therefore, any further upward movement of the second shaft 264 also moves the damping element 268 upwards.

[0064] If the compressive force is high enough, the breakaway force is reached and the shaft 264 moves (pushes) the damping element 268 upwards in the damper body 260, thereby further compressing the first upper and lower tubes 208, 2012. During this compression movement, the damping element 268 can be moved within the Fig. The spring 1600 remains in the state shown in Figure 17, in which it is compressed. As soon as no more compressive force is exerted, the air spring 244 expands ( Fig. 2) the front fork 108 (including the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212). The damping element 268 slides downwards in the damper body 260. In some examples, the damping element 268 can move back to its rest position during the transition between compression and rebound movement, as in Fig. 16. In other examples, however, the damping element 268 can be shown in the Fig. The damping element 268 remains in the position shown in Figure 17. In some examples, the damping element 268 also remains in the position shown during rebound. Fig. Position 17 shown. Once the front fork 108 has extended, the spring 1600 moves the damping element 268 back to the rest position relative to the second shaft 264.

[0065] In some cases, such as in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the second shaft 264 can also move downwards relative to the damping element 268. This movement causes the spring 1600 to extend (e.g., the spring 1600 to be under tension). This moves the damping element 268 into a position where the distance D1 is greater than the distance D2. This can occur during compression, during the transition between compression and rebound, during rebound, and / or in cases where the first upper and lower tubes 208, 212 move apart. While in this example the spring 1600 is located below the damping element 268, in other examples the spring 1600 can be located above the damping element 268 (e.g., between the damping element 268 and a flange at or near the end of the second shaft 264).

[0066] In some examples, both the air spring 244 and the damper 246 include movable piston / damper element and shaft configurations. In other examples, however, only the air spring 244 or the damper 246 may have a movable piston / damper element and shaft configuration. While the exemplary movable piston / damper element and shaft configurations of Fig. 3-18 in conjunction with a suspension component for the front fork, the exemplary movable piston / damper element and shaft configurations can be similarly described in conjunction with other types of suspension components for the front wheel 104 ( Fig. 1) and / or be designed for other vehicle components. For example, any of the exemplary moving piston / damper element and shaft configurations can be designed in conjunction with a single-leg fork, which may have an integrated damper and spring system in the same leg. As another example, any of the exemplary moving piston / damper element and shaft configurations can be used in the rear shock absorber 136 ( Fig. 1) be implemented. As a further example, each of the exemplary movable piston / damper element and shaft configurations can be implemented in conjunction with a suspension component, which together form another component of the bicycle 100 ( Fig. 1) is used, such as the seatpost 112 ( Fig. I).

[0067] Exemplary suspension components for bicycles have been disclosed. The following sections contain various examples and combinations of the examples disclosed herein.

[0068] Example 1 is a suspension component for a bicycle. The suspension component comprises an air spring with an air spring body and a piston within the air spring body. The piston divides the air spring body into a first chamber and a second chamber. The air spring has a shaft that extends into the air spring body. The shaft extends through the piston. The piston is slidable along the shaft. The air spring also has a spring that biases the piston in a first direction relative to the shaft.

[0069] Example 2 includes the spring component from Example 1, wherein the spring is arranged around the shaft.

[0070] Example 3 includes the suspension component from Example 1 or 2, where the spring is a coil spring.

[0071] Example 4 comprises the spring component from one of Examples 1-3, which further includes a bracket connected to the shaft. The spring is axially clamped between the bracket and the piston.

[0072] Example 5 comprises the spring component from one of Examples 1-4, wherein the spring is a first spring. The spring component further comprises a second spring, which is arranged on one side of the piston opposite the first spring. The second spring serves to preload the piston in a second direction relative to the shaft.

[0073] Example 6 comprises the spring component from Example 5, which further includes a first support and a second support connected to the shaft. The first spring is axially clamped between the first support and the piston, and the second spring is axially clamped between the second support and the piston.

[0074] Example 7 includes the suspension component from Example 6, wherein the first and second supports are retaining rings.

[0075] Example 8 comprises the suspension component from one of Examples 1-7, wherein the air spring has an internal seal arranged in a sealing bushing formed in an inner circumferential rim of the piston. The internal seal serves to seal between the piston and the shaft.

[0076] Example 9 comprises the suspension component from one of Examples 1-8, wherein an inner surface of the air spring body has a recess to allow air to bypass the piston during compression or rebound.

[0077] Example 10 comprises the suspension component from one of Examples 1-9, wherein the air spring body is a first tube. The suspension component further comprises a second tube, which is arranged telescopically with the first tube. The shaft is connected to a lower end of the second tube. The second tube comprises a wheel mounting section.

[0078] Example 11 is a suspension component for a bicycle. The suspension component comprises a damper with a damper body and a damping element within the damper body. The damping element divides the damper body into a first chamber and a second chamber. The damper has a shaft that extends into the damper body. The shaft extends through the damping element. The damping element is displaceable along the shaft. The damping element also has a spring that preloads the damping element in a first direction relative to the shaft.

[0079] Example 12 includes the spring component from Example 11, wherein the spring is arranged around the shaft.

[0080] Example 13 comprises the suspension component from Example 11 or 12, which further includes a bracket connected to the shaft. The spring is axially clamped between the damping element and the bracket.

[0081] Example 14 comprises the suspension component from one of Examples 11-13, wherein the spring is a first spring. The suspension component further comprises a second spring arranged on one side of the damper element opposite the first spring. The second spring serves to preload the damper element in a second direction relative to the shaft.

[0082] Example 15 comprises the suspension component from Example 14, which further comprises a first support connected to the shaft and a second support connected to the shaft. The first spring is axially clamped between the first support and the damping element, and the second spring is axially clamped between the second support and the damping element.

[0083] Example 16 comprises the suspension component from one of Examples 11-15, wherein a flange extends radially outwards from the shaft and wherein the spring is axially clamped between the flange and the damping element.

[0084] Example 17 comprises the suspension component from one of Examples 11-16, wherein the damping element has channels extending through the damping element to allow a fluid to flow over the damping element between the first and second chambers.

[0085] Example 18 comprises the suspension component from Example 17, which further comprises: a first washer covering at least one channel on a first side of the damping element; and a second washer covering at least one channel on a second side of the damping element.

[0086] Example 19 comprises the suspension component from Example 11, which further comprises a first tube and a second tube arranged telescopically and defining an interior space. The damper is located within this interior space. The shaft is connected to a lower end of the second tube. The second tube includes a wheel mounting section.

[0087] Example 20 is a suspension component for a bicycle. The suspension component comprises a first upper tube and a first lower tube, arranged telescopically; a second upper tube and a second lower tube, arranged telescopically, the first upper tube being connected to the second upper tube; and a damper in an interior space defined by the first upper and lower tubes. The damper comprises a first shaft connected to the first lower tube and a damping element movably connected to the first shaft. The suspension component further comprises an air spring in an interior space defined by the second upper and lower tubes. The air spring comprises a second shaft connected to the second lower tube and a piston movably connected to the second shaft.

[0088] Example 21 comprises the suspension component from Example 20, wherein the damper comprises a first spring for preloading the first shaft in a first direction relative to the damping element and a second spring for preloading the first shaft in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the damping element.

[0089] Example 22 comprises the suspension component from Example 20 or 21, wherein the air spring includes a third spring for pre-tensioning the second shaft in the first direction relative to the piston and a fourth spring for pre-tensioning the second shaft in the second direction relative to the piston.

[0090] It is evident from the above explanations that exemplary devices have been disclosed which improve shock absorption in suspension components. The exemplary movable piston and shaft configurations disclosed herein allow relative movement between the tubes of a suspension component before the breakaway force is reached. These exemplary movable piston and shaft configurations also absorb high-frequency vibrations, thereby reducing the vibrations perceptible at the bicycle handlebars. This results in a more comfortable riding experience and greater confidence for the rider.

[0091] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations do not constitute a complete description of all elements and features of devices and systems that employ the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments are obvious to the person skilled in the art upon review of the disclosure. Further embodiments can be used and derived from the disclosure, so that structural and logical substitutions and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions in the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be reduced.Accordingly, the revelation and the figures should be viewed as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0092] Although this description contains many details, these should not be understood as limitations on the scope of the invention or the claimed subject matter, but rather as descriptions of features specific to certain embodiments of the invention. Certain features described in this description in connection with individual embodiments can also be realized in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in connection with a single embodiment can also be implemented separately in several embodiments or in any suitable subcombination.Furthermore, although features described above are said to act in certain combinations and are even originally claimed as such, in some cases one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0093] Although certain embodiments are presented and described herein, any arrangement that serves the same or a similar purpose may replace the embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover all subsequent adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein are obvious to a person skilled in the art upon review of the description.

[0094] The summary of disclosure is provided in accordance with 37 CFR § 1.72(b) and is filed with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the preceding detailed description, various features may be summarized or described in a single embodiment to simplify the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be understood as requiring the claimed embodiments to have more features than are expressly stated in the individual claims. Rather, as can be seen from the following claims, the subject matter of the invention may be directed to fewer than all the features of any one of the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the following claims are included in the detailed description, each claim being independent and defining the claimed subject matter separately.

[0095] The foregoing detailed description is intended to be explanatory rather than limiting, and the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims are not to be understood as relating to the described sequence or elements unless explicitly stated. Therefore, all embodiments that fall within the scope of the following claims and their equivalents and are within the scope of protection of these claims are claimed as the invention. Aspects of the invention

[0096] The following is a brief summary of some aspects of the invention described herein: Aspect 1. Suspension component for a bicycle, wherein the suspension component includes: an air spring with: an air spring body; a piston in the air spring body, wherein the piston divides the air spring body into a first chamber and a second chamber; a shaft extending into the air spring body, wherein the shaft extends through the piston and the piston is displaceable along the shaft; and a spring for pre-tensioning the piston in a first direction relative to the shaft. Aspect 2. Suspension component according to aspect 1, wherein the spring is arranged around the shaft. Aspect 3. Suspension component according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the spring is a coil spring. Aspect 4. Suspension component according to one of the preceding aspects, further comprising a support connected to the shaft, wherein the spring is axially clamped between the support and the piston. Aspect 5. Suspension component according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the spring is a first spring, wherein the suspension component further comprises a second spring arranged on one side of the piston opposite the first spring, wherein the second spring biases the piston in a second direction relative to the shaft. Aspect 6. Suspension component according to aspect 5, further comprising a first support connected to the shaft and a second support connected to the shaft, wherein the first spring is axially clamped between the first support and the piston and the second spring is axially clamped between the second support and the piston. Aspect 7. Suspension component according to aspect 6, wherein the first and second mountings are retaining rings. Aspect 8. Suspension component according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the air spring has an inner seal arranged in a sealing bushing formed in an inner circumferential edge of the piston, wherein the inner seal is intended to seal between the piston and the shaft. Aspect 9. Suspension component according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein an inner surface of the air spring body has a recess to allow air to bypass the piston during compression or rebound. Aspect 10. Suspension component according to one of the preceding aspects, wherein the air spring body is a first tube, wherein the suspension component further comprises a second tube which is arranged telescopically with the first tube, wherein the shaft is connected to a lower end of the second tube, and wherein the second tube comprises a wheel mounting section. Aspect 11. Suspension component for a bicycle, wherein the suspension component comprises: a damper with; a damper body; a damping element in the damper body, wherein the damping element divides the damper body into a first chamber and a second chamber; and a shaft extending into the damper body, wherein the shaft extends through the damper element and the damper element is displaceable along the shaft; and a spring for pre-tensioning the damper element in a first direction relative to the shaft. Aspect 12. Suspension component according to aspect 11, wherein the spring is arranged around the shaft. Aspect 13. Suspension component according to aspect 11 or 12, which further comprises a support connected to the shaft, wherein the spring is axially clamped between the damping element and the support. Aspect 14. Suspension component according to one of aspects 11 to 13, wherein the spring is a first spring, wherein the suspension component further comprises a second spring arranged on one side of the damper element opposite the first spring, wherein the second spring preloads the damper element in a second direction relative to the shaft. Aspect 15. Suspension component according to aspect 14, further comprising a first support connected to the shaft and a second support connected to the shaft, wherein the first spring is axially clamped between the first support and the damping element and the second spring is axially clamped between the second support and the damping element. Aspect 16. Suspension component according to one of aspects 11 to 15, wherein a flange extends radially outwards from the shaft and wherein the spring is axially clamped between the flange and the damping element. Aspect 17. Suspension component according to one of aspects 11 to 16, wherein the damping element has channels extending through the damping element to allow a fluid to flow over the damping element between the first and second chambers. Aspect 18. Suspension component according to aspect 17, which further includes: a first washer covering at least one channel on a first side of the damping element; and a second washer that covers at least one channel on a second side of the damping element. Aspect 19. Suspension component according to one of aspects 11 to 18, further comprising a first tube and a second tube arranged telescopically and defining an interior space, wherein the damper is arranged in the interior space, the shaft is connected to a lower end of the second tube and the second tube comprises a wheel mounting section. Aspect 20. Suspension component for a bicycle, wherein the suspension component comprises: a first upper tube and a first lower tube, which are arranged telescopically; a second upper tube and a second lower tube, arranged telescopically, wherein the first upper pipe is connected to the second upper pipe; a damper in an interior space defined by the first upper and lower tubes, the damper includes: a first shaft connected to the first lower tube; and a damping element movably connected to the first shaft; and an air spring in an interior defined by the second upper and lower tube, the air spring comprising: a second shaft connected to the second lower tube; and a piston that is movably connected to the second shaft. Aspect 21. Suspension component according to aspect 20, comprising the damper: a first spring for pre-tensioning the first shaft in a first direction relative to the damping element; and a second spring for pre-tensioning the first shaft in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the damping element. Aspect 22. Suspension component according to aspect 20 or 21, comprising the air spring: a third spring for pre-tensioning the second shaft in the first direction relative to the piston; and a fourth spring for pre-tensioning the second shaft in the second direction relative to the piston.

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