Device for covering a fork bridge of a handlebar-mounted, motorized vehicle

Abstract

Device (1) for covering a fork bridge (3) of a handlebar-guided, motor-driven vehicle (5), wherein the fork bridge (3) couples two fork tubes (7) aligned along substantially parallel axes (8) together, - wherein the device (1) is designed in multiple parts and comprises a support module (9) that can be attached to the fork bridge (3) and a cover module (11) that is detachably connected to the support module (9), characterized in that the support module (9) can be attached to the fork bridge (3) completely within an area between the parallel axes (8) along which the fork tubes (7) are aligned.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a device for covering a fork bridge of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle, wherein the fork bridge couples two fork tubes aligned along essentially parallel axes. The device is particularly designed in several parts and comprises a support module that can be attached to the fork bridge and a cover module that is detachably connected to the support module. Description

[0002] A handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle is understood to mean, in particular, a motorcycle. Such a motorcycle usually has two fork tubes aligned along parallel axes, which are connected by a fork bridge (see, for example, Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b). A riser can be installed between the fork bridge and the handlebar. This allows the height and position of the handlebar to be individually adjusted, thereby optimizing both the ergonomics and ride comfort of the vehicle.

[0003] Typically, cables run along the triple clamp, making them visible and exposed to the elements. This not only impairs the aesthetic appearance of the motorcycle but also increases the cables' susceptibility to wear and damage from environmental influences. State of the art

[0004] US 7,121,568 B2 discloses a motorcycle with a triple clamp to which a handlebar is directly attached. A rubber seal is arranged between the handlebar and the triple clamp, which, in conjunction with the handlebar base plate, serves as a cover for the triple clamp. The rubber seal has two main functions: It seals against moisture penetration and simultaneously provides shock absorption for the handlebar.

[0005] A disadvantage of this design is that the triple clamp cover can only be installed or removed as a single unit, requiring the entire handlebar to be removed. This increases the effort required for cleaning or servicing individual components, especially the rubber seal. Another disadvantage is that the handlebar position cannot be adjusted, as it is firmly attached to the base plate, which in turn is directly attached to the triple clamp. This limits the ability to individually adjust the handlebar position to achieve a comfortable riding position for the rider.

[0006] Documents US 20120210821 A1, CN 220948316 U, US 6979011 B2, CN 212529924 U, and US 7014485 B1 also disclose motorcycles with triple clamps. These documents also describe, among other things, individual cover elements, such as channels or protective tubes on the handlebars that serve to guide cables. However, these disclosures lack a cover for the triple clamp itself to protect it from the elements and effectively conceal the cables at the appropriate locations. Disclosure of the invention

[0007] The object of the invention was to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide a device for covering the fork bridge of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle, which is easy to install, allows easy cleaning and maintenance and effectively covers cables.

[0008] The object of the invention is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0009] According to the invention, the object is further achieved in particular in that a device of the type mentioned at the outset comprises a carrier module which can be fastened to the fork bridge completely within a region between the parallel axes along which the fork tubes are aligned.

[0010] The support module is a key load-bearing component of the device, specifically designed to provide structural support and secure the cover module. It acts as a connecting element between the fork bridge and the cover module, being mounted to the fork bridge and securely supporting the cover module.

[0011] The main advantage of the device according to the invention is that cables running along the fork bridge can be completely covered, making them invisible and protected from external influences. Furthermore, the modular design allows for easy cable routing and convenient access to the steering head and stanchion clamps, as the cover module can be removed—without requiring disassembly of the entire handlebar assembly.

[0012] The proposed device is particularly suitable for Harley-Davidson Touring models. However, the present invention is not limited to use with Harley-Davidson Touring models. Rather, the device according to the invention can also be used on other motorcycles or handlebar-controlled motorized vehicles.

[0013] The cover module is primarily designed to conceal the triple clamp and the cables running along it, protecting them from external influences such as dirt, moisture, or mechanical damage. It represents the largest visible part of the device and can be aesthetically adapted to the vehicle's design.

[0014] The cover module is detachably connected to the support module, allowing for easy disassembly. The cover module is preferably constructed of a lightweight yet robust material to ensure structural integrity and resistance to environmental influences.

[0015] Additionally, the cover module can be designed to be individually adapted to different models of steering-controlled, motor-driven vehicles. This can also be achieved through interchangeable design variants.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the carrier module has a steering lock opening through which a steering lock of the driver-controlled, motor-driven vehicle can be passed. It is understood that the steering lock opening is positioned and dimensioned such that it is compatible with the vehicle's steering lock and does not impair its function.

[0017] The steering lock is a common security device that prevents the handlebars from turning and protects the vehicle from theft when parked. Integrating the steering lock opening into the carrier module ensures that the triple clamp cover does not restrict operation or access to the steering lock.

[0018] The steering lock opening allows the steering lock to be used without disassembling the device, thus improving the comfort and everyday usability of the vehicle. Furthermore, the precise adjustment of the steering lock opening helps ensure that the carrier module remains securely attached to the fork bridge while still providing space for the steering lock without compromising the structural integrity of the device.

[0019] In a further preferred embodiment, the device further comprises a steering lock cover detachably connected to the carrier module. This cover serves, in particular, to protect the steering lock of the steering-controlled, motor-driven vehicle from external influences such as dirt, moisture, or mechanical damage, thus increasing the functionality and service life of the steering lock.

[0020] In a further aspect, the invention relates to a handlebar-guided, motor-driven vehicle comprising a fork bridge that couples two fork tubes aligned along parallel axes. The vehicle is particularly characterized in that the fork bridge is covered with a device of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0021] Further embodiments are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The device according to the invention is not intended to be limited solely to these listed embodiments. Rather, embodiments are also envisaged that are now and in the future available to the person skilled in the art in an equivalent manner using other technical means. Short description of the drawing Fig. 1a shows a schematic, perspective view of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle as known from the prior art. Fig. 1b shows a schematic, perspective view of a section of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle as is known from the prior art. Fig. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in an exploded view. Fig. 3 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a plan view. Fig. 4 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a perspective view. Fig. 5 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a front view. Fig. 6 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a side view from the left. Fig. 7 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a side view from the right. Fig. 8 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a bottom view. Fig. 9 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention in a rear view. Fig. 10 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, which is attached to a fork bridge of a handlebar-controlled motor-driven vehicle, in a perspective view. Fig. 11 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, which is mounted on a fork bridge of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle and coupled to a riser, in a sectional view. Fig. 12 shows a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, which is mounted on a fork bridge of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle and coupled to a riser, in a perspective view. Preferred embodiments

[0022] Fig. Figure 1a shows a schematic, perspective view of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5, as is known from the prior art. The vehicle 5 has a handlebar 6, which is connected to a fork bridge 3 via a riser 23. The fork bridge 3 connects two fork tubes 7 of the vehicle 5 to each other.

[0023] The triple clamp 3 represents a key component for the stability and steering precision of the vehicle 5, as it transfers the forces from the handlebar 6 to the fork tubes 7 and ultimately to the front wheel. Typically, the triple clamp 3 is made of high-strength materials such as aluminum or steel to minimize weight while ensuring the necessary structural stability.

[0024] Fig. Figure 1b shows a schematic, perspective view of a section of another example of a driver-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5, as is known from the prior art. In contrast to the vehicle 5 of Fig. 1a identifies vehicle 5 Fig. 1b has no fairing in the area of ​​the steering section, so that the fork bridge 3 of the vehicle 5 is clearly visible. The two fork tubes 7, which are connected to each other by the fork bridge 3, are aligned along two essentially parallel axes 8.

[0025] In the prior art, no device 1 for covering a fork bridge 3 is known which comprises a support module 9 which is or can be fastened to the fork bridge 3 entirely within a region between the parallel axes 8.

[0026] Fig. 2 - Fig. 9 show a preferred embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention in different views.

[0027] The device 1 is designed in several parts and has a support module 9 that can be fastened to the fork bridge 3, as well as a cover module 11 that is detachably connected to the support module 9. Furthermore, the support module 9 can be fastened to the fork bridge 3 entirely within a region between the parallel axes 8, along which the fork tubes 7 are aligned.

[0028] "Completely within a region" means, in particular, that the support module 9 is positioned so that it is located exclusively within the spatial region between the two substantially parallel axes 8 along which the fork tubes 7 are aligned. This region is delimited by the axes 8, and the support module 9 does not exceed this boundary. It neither protrudes into adjacent areas nor beyond the defined boundaries.

[0029] Furthermore, the carrier module 9 preferably has a steering lock opening 12 through which a steering lock of the handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5 can be passed.

[0030] The device 1 can additionally comprise a steering lock cover 13 detachably connected to the carrier module 9. This serves in particular to protect the steering lock from external influences such as dirt, dust, or moisture, thus increasing the functionality and service life of the steering lock.

[0031] The steering lock cover 13 is preferably connected to the carrier module 9 via at least one screw connection, which allows for easy disassembly and maintenance. Alternatively, however, other connecting means can be used that ensure a positive and / or force-fitting attachment, such as plug connections, magnetic fasteners, or snap-in mechanisms.

[0032] In a further embodiment, the steering lock cover 13 can be permanently bonded to the carrier module 9, for example by gluing, welding, or potting, to achieve a particularly robust and durable connection. An additional possibility is to design the carrier module 9 and the steering lock cover 13 as a single, one-piece component.

[0033] The steering lock opening 12 can simultaneously serve as an opening 15 for receiving a cable 17. This allows a cable 17 to be guided through the opening 15 of the support module 9 and positioned between the cover module 11 and the fork bridge 3.

[0034] Since the steering lock cover 13 covers the steering lock guided through the opening 12, 15, it is understood that the steering lock cover 13 (if used) must also have a passage to guide a cable 17 through the steering lock cover 13 to the opening 15. For example, the steering lock cover 13 may have a cable duct 19 connected to the opening 15 so that a cable 17 of the carrier module 9 can be guided through the cable duct 19 into the opening 15.

[0035] In this context, the carrier module 9 can, for example, comprise at least one cylindrical recess 21, which is designed to receive and guide a coupling element of a riser 23 of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5 in order to establish a connection with the fork bridge 3. The cylindrical recess 21 is in particular provided with a central opening, which makes it possible to securely fasten the carrier module 9 to the fork bridge 3. A screw or a bolt, for example, can be guided through this opening, which fixes the carrier module 9 between the fork bridge 3 and the riser 23 (see, for example, Fig. 11 and Fig. 12).

[0036] The cover module 11 is preferably connected to the support module 9 via a screw connection. Particularly preferably, the cover module 11 is connected to the support module 9 via five screw connections. However, the present invention is not limited to this type of connection. Alternatively, the cover module 11 can also be releasably connected to the support module 9 using other connecting means in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner. For example, plug-in connections, magnetic fastenings, or snap-in mechanisms could also be considered to enable easy assembly and disassembly.

[0037] The cover module 11 preferably at least partially replicates the outer contours of the fork bridge 3. The cover module 11 comprises, for example, a bottomless housing with end faces 25 and a cover surface element 27. A bottomless housing, within the meaning of the invention, is to be understood as a housing construction that does not have a closed bottom surface, whereby the cover module 11 can be easily placed over the fork bridge 3 and connected to the support module 9.

[0038] In the assembled state, the cover surface element 27 at least partially covers the upper side of the fork bridge 3, while an end face 25 of the cover module 11 at least partially covers the end face 29 of the fork bridge 3.

[0039] Particularly preferably, the cover module 11 has at least two end faces 25 which extend at an angle of more than 90° to one another or converge towards one another (see in particular Fig. 3).

[0040] Furthermore, the wall thickness of the housing of the cover module 11 is preferably selected from a range of 1 mm to 50 mm. This range enables an optimal combination of structural stability and weight reduction.

[0041] Furthermore, the carrier module 9 comprises at least one cover 31 and a mounting plate 33, wherein the mounting plate 33 has a support surface 35 in an edge region, so that the cover module 11, in particular the cover surface element 27, in combination with the carrier module 9, at least partially overlaps the support surface 35.

[0042] The edge region is preferably defined as the outer region of the mounting plate 33, which extends along its circumference and serves to support or connect to other components.

[0043] The thickness of the mounting plate 33 and / or the cover 31 is selected from a range of 1 mm to 50 mm. This range allows sufficient stability to withstand mechanical loads while ensuring a compact and weight-efficient design.

[0044] Furthermore, the cover 31 of the mounting plate 33 in combination with the end faces 25 of the cover module 11 contributes to ensuring complete all-round coverage of the fork bridge 3 (see for example Fig. 12).

[0045] Preferably, the at least one screw for connecting the cover module 11 to the support module 9 is designed such that it is inserted through the cover surface element 27 of the cover module 11 into the support surface 35 of the mounting plate 33. Particularly preferably, five screw connections are provided, which engage through the cover surface element 27 into the support surface 35 of the mounting plate 33 to ensure a stable and secure connection. However, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the use of a screw connection. Of course, other means for a positive and / or non-positive, detachable connection between the cover module 11 and the mounting plate 33 are also possible. Such alternative connection means could, for example, include plug connections, snap closures, or magnetic fastenings in order to meet the different requirements and applications.

[0046] The cover module 11 preferably has a separate opening 37 with a removable cover 39 for each fork tube 7. This design allows easy and direct access to the clamping of the fork tubes 7, which significantly simplifies maintenance and adjustment work. Especially with a cartridge upside-down fork, the adjusting screw on the right and left sides remains freely accessible thanks to the screwed covers 39, which facilitates simple maintenance and adjustment.

[0047] The covers 39 are detachably attached to the cover module 11 by means of a screw connection. For example, six screws are used to attach each cover 39 to ensure a secure and stable connection. However, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the use of screw connections. Other fastening means, such as clamping mechanisms, plug-in connections, or magnetic fastenings, can also be used alternatively.

[0048] Furthermore, a threaded ring 41 is preferably provided within the opening 37. The threaded ring 41 has internal threads that serve to accommodate the screws of the cover 39. The threaded ring 41 is preferably inserted from below into the cover module 11 at the openings 37, with the diameter of the ring 41 being larger than that of the opening 37 so that it remains securely fixed. The cover 39 is then placed onto the opening 37 from above, and the screws are screwed through the cover 39 into the internal threads of the threaded ring 41. This design ensures simple assembly as well as reliable and stable fastening of the cover 39 to the cover module 11.

[0049] The carrier module 9, the cover module 11, and / or the steering lock cover 3 are preferably made of a material selected from the group: metal, plastic, or composite. Suitable materials include, for example, aluminum or stainless steel, which impress with their high strength and corrosion resistance, as well as plastics that are lightweight and highly formable. Composites such as carbon fiber-reinforced or glass fiber-reinforced plastics are also suitable, as they offer an optimal combination of low weight and high stability. The material is selected depending on the specific requirements for load-bearing capacity, weight, weather resistance, and aesthetic design, but is not limited to the examples mentioned.

[0050] It's possible for all components to be made of the same material to ensure a consistent appearance and finish. Alternatively, the components can be made of different materials to optimize specific properties such as weight savings or increased robustness in the respective functional elements.

[0051] Fig. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention, which is mounted on a fork bridge 3 of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5. This can be a fork bridge 3 of a conventional design known from the prior art.

[0052] First, the support module 9 is preferably attached to the top of the fork bridge 3. The support module 9 is designed to be positioned entirely within an area between the parallel axes 8 along which the fork tubes 7 are aligned. This design enables compact integration of the support module 9.

[0053] The carrier module 9 preferably has a steering lock opening 12 through which a steering lock of the vehicle 5 can be passed. In addition, the device 1 preferably comprises a steering lock cover 13 detachably connected to the carrier module 9, which protects the steering lock from external influences and supports a tidy appearance.

[0054] The support module 9 is preferably securely attached to the fork bridge 3 via one or more screw connections. After the support module 9 has been installed, the cover module 11, which is designed as a bottomless housing with end faces 25 and a cover surface element 27, is detachably connected to the support module 9.

[0055] The cover surface element 27 of the cover module 11 at least partially covers the upper side of the fork bridge 3, while an end face 25 of the cover module 11 at least partially conceals the end face 29 of the fork bridge 3. For stable attachment, the cover surface element 27 is applied to a support surface 35 of the carrier module 9 and screwed in place. This design not only ensures reliable coverage of the fork bridge 3 but also allows for easy disassembly and maintenance of the underlying components.

[0056] Fig. Figure 11 shows a preferred embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention, which is mounted on a fork bridge 3 of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5 and coupled to a riser 23. The illustration includes a) a side and front view and b) a sectional view.

[0057] In Fig. Figure 11b particularly shows the routing of the cables 17 extending from the handlebar 6. These are routed over the riser 23 and inserted through a cable duct 19 in the steering lock cover 13 into a cable opening 15 of the support module 9. There, the cables 17 are positioned between the cover module 11 and the fork bridge 3. This arrangement provides effective protection against external influences such as dirt, moisture, or mechanical damage. Cables 17 can be routed completely invisibly from the outside from the riser 23 to the frame.

[0058] Fig.12 shows a preferred embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention, which is mounted on a fork bridge 3 of a handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle 5 and coupled to a riser 23, in a perspective view.

[0059] The support module 9 has two cylindrical recesses 21, which are specifically designed to securely accommodate and guide coupling elements of the riser 23. The coupling elements of the riser 23 can include sleeves, screws, and bolts with which the riser 23 can be attached to the fork bridge 3 via the support module 9.

[0060] The cylindrical recesses 21 enable a precise and stable connection between the riser 23 and the fork bridge 3. This ensures reliable power transmission from the handlebar to the fork bridge 3, while assembly is simplified by the precise design of the recesses 21.

[0061] The design of the support module 9 also ensures an even distribution of the loads that occur, which contributes to the longevity and stability of the entire device. List of reference symbols 1 device 3 fork bridge 5 vehicle 6 handlebars 7 Fork tube 8 axis along which a fork tube is aligned 9 Carrier module 11 Cover module 12 Steering lock opening 13 Steering lock cover 15 Opening for a cable 17 cables 19 Cable duct in the steering lock cover 21 cylindrical recess 23 risers 25 Front side of the cover element 27 Cover surface of the cover element 29 Front side of the fork bridge 31 aperture 33 Mounting plate 35 Support surface on the mounting plate 37 opening in the cover module provided for each fork tube 39 Covers for the openings 37 41 threaded ring QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] US 7,121,568 B2

[0004] US 20120210821 A1

[0006] CN 220948316 U

[0006] US 6979011 B2

[0006] CN 212529924

[0006] US 7014485 B1

[0006]

Claims

[1] Device (1) for covering a fork bridge (3) of a handlebar-guided, motor-driven vehicle (5), wherein the fork bridge (3) couples two fork tubes (7) aligned along substantially parallel axes (8), - wherein the device (1) is designed in several parts and comprises a support module (9) which can be fastened to the fork bridge (3) and a cover module (11) which is detachably connected to the support module (9), characterized by that the support module (9) can be fastened to the fork bridge (3) completely within an area between the parallel axes (8) along which the fork tubes (7) are aligned. [2] Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the carrier module (9) has a steering lock opening (12) through which a steering lock of the handlebar-controlled, motor-driven vehicle (5) can be passed. [3] Device (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized bythat the device (1) further comprises a steering lock cover (13) detachably connected to the carrier module (9). [4] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the carrier module (9) has an opening (15) for receiving a cable (17), so that a cable (17) can be guided through the opening (15) of the carrier module (9) and positioned between the cover module (11) and the fork bridge (3). [5] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the steering lock opening (12) simultaneously serves as an opening (15) for receiving a cable (17). [6] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the steering lock cover (13) has a cable duct (19) which is connected to the opening (15) for receiving a cable (17) of the carrier module (9), so that a cable (17) can be guided via the cable duct (19) into the opening (15). [7] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the steering lock cover (13) is connected to the carrier module (9) via a screw connection. [8] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the carrier module (9) can be fastened to the fork bridge (3) via a screw connection, preferably on an upper side of the fork bridge (3). [9] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by in that the carrier module (9) has at least one cylindrical recess (21) which is designed to receive and guide a coupling element of a riser (23) of a handlebar-guided, motor-driven vehicle (5) in order to enable coupling to the fork bridge (3). [10] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the cover module (11) is connected to the carrier module (9) via a screw connection. [11] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by , that the cover module (11) at least partially replicates the outer contours of the fork bridge (3). [12] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the cover module (11) has a bottomless housing with end faces (25) and a cover surface element (27), wherein: • the cover surface element (27) at least partially covers the top of the fork bridge (3), and • an end face (25) of the cover module (11) at least partially covers an end face (29) of the fork bridge (3). [13] Device (1) according to claim 12 characterized by that at least two end faces (25) converge at an angle of more than 90°. [14] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that a wall thickness of the housing of the cover module (11) is selected from a range of 1 mm to 50 mm. [15] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by in that the carrier module (9) comprises at least one cover (31) and a mounting plate (33), wherein the mounting plate (33) has a support surface (35) in an edge region, so that the cover module (11), in particular the cover surface element (27), in combination with the carrier module (9), at least partially overlaps the support surface (35). [16] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that a thickness of the mounting plate (33) and / or the cover (31) is selected from a range of 1 mm to 50 mm. [17] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that a screw connection is provided which is inserted through the cover surface element (27) of the cover module (11) into the support surface (35). [18] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized bythat the cover module (11) has an opening (37) provided for each fork tube (7) with a removable cover (39). [19] Device (1) according to claim 18 characterized by that the covers (39) are releasably attached to the cover module (11) by a screw connection. [20] Device (1) according to claim 18 or claim 19 characterized by that a threaded ring (41) is provided within the opening (37). [21] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the carrier module (9), the cover module (11) and / or the steering lock cover (13) comprises a material selected from the group: metal, plastic or composite. [22] Handlebar-guided, motor-driven vehicle (5), comprising a fork bridge (3) which couples two fork tubes (7) aligned along parallel axes (8), characterized bythat the fork bridge (3) is covered with a device (1) according to one of the preceding claims. [23] Vehicle according to claim 22, wherein the vehicle (5) further comprises a riser (23) for adjusting a handlebar, which is coupled to the fork bridge (3), characterized by that cables (17) originating from the handlebar are guided via a cable duct in the riser (23) through the cable duct (19) in the steering lock cover (13) into the opening (15) of the carrier module (9) under the cover module (11).

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