HYDRAULIC MASTER DEVICE FOR A HYDRAULIC BRAKE OR CLUTCH OF A STEERING-LEVEL VEHICLE AND HYDRAULIC BRAKE OF A STEERING-LEVEL VEHICLE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a hydraulic master device for a hydraulic brake or clutch of a driver-controlled vehicle according to the preamble of claim 1 and a hydraulic brake of a driver-controlled vehicle.

[0002] GB 800,196 A discloses a hydraulic master cylinder mounted in a steering tube. This hydraulic master cylinder is designed for a closed system without a reservoir and has a relatively complex design. A pressure cylinder is located in the hydraulic cylinder. The pressure rod is controlled by a deflection mechanism that is guided around the cylinder and controlled by the lever. This design is very space-intensive and unsuitable for open systems with a reservoir.

[0003] DE 10 2015 010 839 A1 and DE 10 2015 010 858 A1 disclose hydraulic master devices for a special handlebar geometry, in which a handlebar tube is guided forward. At the open end of the handlebar tube, the hydraulic master device protrudes forward from the handlebar tube and is also arranged around the handlebar tube. These known hydraulic master devices are not suitable for mounting on handlebars that run transversely to the vehicle's longitudinal axis, such as those used on trekking bikes, mountain bikes, or most electric bicycles. DE102015010839A1 discloses a hydraulic master device according to the preamble of the claim. 1.

[0004] From US 6,502,675 B1, hydraulic master cylinder devices for a hydraulic brake of a steering-controlled vehicle are known, in which the master cylinder is arranged in the steering tube.

[0005] The hydraulic master cylinders known from US Pat. No. 6,502,675 B1 have the disadvantage that the master cylinders are located in the handlebar tube, as seen from the lever, toward the center of the vehicle. The handlebar tube usually has bends there. This results in very limited installation space, and installation is cumbersome and difficult if the conventional curved handlebar tubes are used.

[0006] The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a hydraulic sensor device which can be easily mounted on conventional handlebar tubes with bends towards the center of the vehicle.

[0007] The object is achieved according to the invention by a hydraulic master device according to the features of claim 1. Advantageous developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims.

[0008] According to the invention, a hydraulic master device for a hydraulic brake or clutch of steering-controlled vehicles is provided, comprising a lever which is pivotally arranged in a receptacle and a hydraulic cylinder which can be arranged in a steering tube of the steering-controlled vehicle, wherein the hydraulic master device has a pulling device which, when the hydraulic master device is actuated, exerts a pulling force on the piston of the hydraulic cylinder.

[0009] The embodiment of the invention has the advantage that due to the inventive design, sufficient installation space is available, because the master cylinder can be moved from the lever to the vehicle side, ie be arranged in the straight area of ​​the handle tube.

[0010] According to the invention, the pulling device can comprise a pull rod. The pull rod can also serve as the piston rod for the piston of the hydraulic master device. The dual function of the pull rod allows for a compact and simple design. According to the invention, the piston rod can extend through the pressure chamber. This has the advantage of a compact and simple design.

[0011] According to the invention, a hydraulic channel from the hydraulic cylinder to the hydraulic line connected to the associated hydraulic slave device can be arranged in the traction device.

[0012] According to the invention, the hydraulic channel can be located in the drawbar. This design has the advantage that very little space is required due to the dual function of the drawbar.

[0013] According to claim 1, the hydraulic master device has a displacement device which is arranged in the handlebar tube of the handlebar-guided vehicle so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the handlebar tube.

[0014] According to claim 1, the displacement device is connected to the pulling device.

[0015] According to the invention, the lever can be hinged to two pivot axes, to which two arms pivotally mounted on the lever engage. This design has the advantage that, with a low pivot point, the increase in gear ratio can be somewhat less pronounced.

[0016] According to the invention, one arm can be part of a pressure piece.

[0017] According to the invention, the pulling device can have an anti-rotation device that prevents or restricts rotation in the handlebar tube. The anti-rotation device can comprise an alignment device between the displacement device and a pressure piece that transfers the force from the lever to the displacement device. For example, the displacement device can comprise a groove into which the fork legs or two extensions of the pressure piece engage. In versions without a pressure piece, the lever can also engage directly on the displacement device. Alternatively or additionally, the displacement device can also comprise two webs, between which a web of the pressure piece or the lever engages.

[0018] A rotation lock is advantageous because the hydraulic line could possibly exert a torque on the hydraulic master device because the hydraulic line could have been arranged on a reel before assembly and therefore has a twist.

[0019] According to the invention, the displacement device can have a contour to preferably achieve a decreasing gear ratio with increasing actuation of the hydraulic master device. For these embodiments of the invention, it is advantageous to provide a rotation lock for the displacement device.

[0020] According to the invention, the hydraulic master device can have a handle width adjustment device with which the distance between the holder for the lever and the master cylinder can be adjusted to adjust the handle width.

[0021] Therefore, according to the invention, a hydraulic master device for a hydraulic brake or clutch of handlebar-controlled vehicles is also specified, comprising a lever which is pivotally arranged in a receptacle and a hydraulic cylinder which can be arranged in a handlebar tube of the handlebar-controlled vehicle, wherein the hydraulic master device has a handlebar width adjustment device with which the distance between the receptacle for the lever and the master cylinder can be adjusted to adjust the handlebar width.

[0022] According to the invention, the holder can be arranged displaceably on the handlebar tube.

[0023] According to the invention, the master cylinder can be arranged displaceably in the handlebar tube.

[0024] According to the invention, the master cylinder can be attached to the handlebar tube with a fastener. The fastener can be a screw. A slotted hole can be formed in the handlebar tube. The slotted hole can have a contoured edge or a grid so that the fastener can be tightened only in specific positions.

[0025] According to the invention, the hydraulic master device can comprise a pulling device that exerts a pulling force on the piston of the hydraulic cylinder upon actuation of the hydraulic master device, and a displacement device that is arranged in the handlebar tube of the steering-controlled vehicle so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the handlebar tube, wherein the displacement device is connected to the pulling device. The length of the pulling device can be adjustable.

[0026] According to the invention, the pulling device can have a pull rod.

[0027] According to the invention, the length of the drawbar can be adjustable. Alternatively or additionally, the point of engagement of the drawbar on the displacement device and / or on the master cylinder can be adjustable.

[0028] For example, the connection between the sliding device and the drawbar, or between the drawbar and the master cylinder, can be made via a screw connection. This has the advantage that the point of application can be easily adjusted or adjusted by turning the drawbar or a screw of the screw connection.

[0029] According to the invention, the pulling device can have a pull rod which is connected to the displacement device via a screw.

[0030] According to the invention, the hydraulic transmitter device can have a compensation chamber arranged in the handlebar tube.

[0031] Therefore, according to the invention, a hydraulic master device for a hydraulic brake or clutch of handlebar-controlled vehicles is also provided, comprising a lever which is pivotally arranged in a receptacle and a hydraulic cylinder which can be arranged in a handlebar tube of the handlebar-controlled vehicle, wherein the hydraulic master device has a compensation chamber arranged in the handlebar tube.

[0032] According to the invention, the master cylinder can be arranged between the holder for the lever and the compensation chamber.

[0033] According to the invention, the master cylinder can have an extension in which the compensation chamber is arranged.

[0034] According to the invention, the mount for the lever can be arranged on the outside of the handlebar tube. The lever can be directed toward the center of the vehicle.

[0035] According to the invention, the piston of the master cylinder can have an extension that extends into the compensation chamber. A hydraulic channel can be arranged in the extension of the piston.

[0036] According to the invention, the hydraulic channel can be connected to the pressure chamber in the master cylinder.

[0037] According to the invention, the hydraulic channel can run through the compensation chamber.

[0038] According to the invention, the compensation chamber can be arranged on the outside of the handlebar tube.

[0039] According to the invention, the receptacle for the vent screw can have a Luer cone for receiving a commercially available syringe.

[0040] According to the invention, the hydraulic master device can have a sensor for detecting the position of the lever. The position of the lever can be used to activate a brake light. Furthermore, in vehicles with an electric drive, the position of the lever can be used to trigger recuperation.

[0041] According to the invention, the hydraulic sensor device can have a display that indicates the fill level in the compensation chamber. The display can be hydraulically connected to the compensation chamber.

[0042] According to the invention, the display can be arranged in the grip area of ​​the handlebar.

[0043] According to the invention, the display can be provided at the end of the handlebar tube. For this purpose, the differential housing can preferably be constructed in two parts so that a display section can advantageously be transparent.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, the indicator may comprise a sensor for detecting the fill level of the compensation chamber and means for controlling the indicator. The sensor device may comprise a magnet arranged on the bellows and interacting with a sensor, which may be provided, for example, on the wall of the compensation housing and / or the master cylinder in the area of ​​the compensation housing.

[0045] According to the invention, the hydraulic master device can be completely integrated or accommodated in the handlebar tube, except for the actuating lever.

[0046] According to the invention, the handlebar tube of the handlebar-controlled vehicle can extend transversely to the vehicle direction. In other words, the handlebar tube can be designed and arranged such that the ends of the handlebar tube are located on both sides of the vehicle. According to the invention, the hydraulic master device can be arranged at one end of the handlebar tube, or a pair of hydraulic master devices (e.g., for a front wheel brake and a rear wheel brake) can be arranged at both handlebar ends located on opposite sides of the vehicle (e.g., left and right in the direction of travel).

[0047] According to the invention, a hydraulic brake or hydraulic clutch or hydraulic bicycle brake is also specified, wherein the hydraulic brake or hydraulic clutch or hydraulic bicycle brake has a hydraulic transmitter device according to the invention.

[0048] According to the invention, the hydraulic bicycle brake can be a disc brake or a rim brake.

[0049] The invention is described below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. The following reference numerals are used: 1 Master cylinder 10 Lever 11 Arm section 20 Handlebar tube 21 Opening 22 Opening 23 Opening 30 Grip tube 32 Screw 33 Screw 40 Mount 41 Pivot axis 41A Pivot axis 41B Pivot axis 42 Clamp 43 Adapter for shifting unit 44 Grip width adjustment device 45 Tab 46 Screw 50 Pressure piece 50A Pressure piece section 50B Pressure piece 51A Arm 51B Arm section 53 Pivot axis 54 Pivot axis 55 Projection 56 Extension 57 Extension 60 Shifting device 61 Passage 62 Passage 63 Web 64 Groove 65 Mount 66 Contour 70 Pulling device 71 Head 72 Main body 73 Screw connection 731 Socket 74 Screw 75 Hydraulic channel 76 Opening 80 Master cylinder 81 Return spring 82 Pressure chamber 83 Primary seal 84 Seal 85 Pressure line 86 Extension 90 Compensation chamber 91 Bellows 911 Bead 92 Cover 93 Passage 94 Bleed screw 95 Cone 96 Overflow channel 97 Seal 98 Bleed hole 100 Hydraulic line 101 Clamping screw 102 Connection piece 110 Frame 111 Flattening 120 Compensation housing 121 Flattening 122 Snap device 123 Snap device 124 End wall 125 End wall 126 Web130Sensor device 131Magnet 132Hall sensor 140Display 150Compensation section 151Web 152Protrusion 160Display section 161Seal (e.g. O-ring) 162Passage 163End wall 164Marking 165Marking 166Area 170Sensor device 171Magnet 172Sensor (e.g. Hall sensor, reed contact, etc.) Short description of the characters:

[0050] Fig. 1 shows a sectional view through a first embodiment of a hydraulic master device according to an embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 1 . Fig. 3 shows an external view of a handlebar tube for the hydraulic master device of Fig. 1 . Fig. 4 shows a side view of the handlebar tube of Fig. 3 . Fig. 5 shows a side view of a displacement device for the hydraulic master device of Fig. 1 . Fig. 6 shows a view of the displacement device of Fig. 5 from above. Fig. 7 shows a view of the displacement device of Fig. 5viewed from the end of the handlebar tube towards the center of the handlebar tube in a handlebar tube. Fig. 8 shows a side view of a pressure piece for the hydraulic master device of Fig. 1 . Fig. 9 shows a view of the pressure piece of Fig. 8 seen from the handlebar center. Fig. 10 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 11 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 12 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 13 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 12 . Fig. 14 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 15 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 14. Fig. 16 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 17 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 16 . Fig. 18 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 19 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 18 . Fig. 20 shows a view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 10 or Fig. 1 seen from the handlebar end. Fig. 21 shows an enlarged partial view of the sectional view of Fig. 12 . Fig. 22 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 23 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 24 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 23 . Fig. 25 shows a sectional view corresponding Fig. 1 a hydraulic master device according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. Fig. 26 shows a view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 25 seen from the handlebar end. Fig. 27 shows a sectional view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 25 . Fig. 28 shows a sectional view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 25 . Fig. 29 shows an enlarged partial view of the sectional view of Fig. 28 . Fig. 30 shows a side view of a frame for the hydraulic master device of Fig. 25 . Fig. 31 shows a view of the frame of Fig. 30 seen from the handlebar end. Fig. 32 shows a side view of a differential housing for the hydraulic master device of Fig. 25. Fig. 33 shows a view of the differential housing of Fig. 32 seen from the handlebar end. Fig. 34 shows an enlarged partial view of the view of Fig. 33 . Fig. 35 shows a side view of an alternative compensation housing for a hydraulic master device according to the Fig. 25 . Fig. 36 shows a view of the differential housing of Fig. 35 from the Fig. 35 left side. Fig. 37 shows a sectional view of the differential housing from Fig. 35 in the cutting plane, which in Fig. 36 marked with the arrows XXXVII. Fig. 38 shows a view of the differential housing of Fig. 35 from above. Fig. 39 shows a side view of the indicator section of the differential housing of Fig. 35 . Fig. 40 shows a sectional view of the display section of Fig. 39 according to the cutting plane of Fig. 37 . Fig. 41 shows a view of the display section of Fig. 39seen from the handlebar end. Fig. 42 shows a view of the display section of Fig. 39 seen from the compensation section of the differential housing. Fig. 43 shows a sectional view of a hydraulic master device with a differential housing according to the Figures 35 to 42 for installation in a handlebar tube of a handlebar-controlled vehicle, the section being in accordance with the cutting plane of Fig. 37 Fig. 44 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 43 . Fig. 45 shows a side view of the hydraulic master device of Fig. 43 .

[0051] The Figures 1 to 9 show a first embodiment of a hydraulic master device according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0052] The hydraulic master device 1 is a master device of a hydraulic bicycle brake, for example, a hydraulic brake or a hydraulic disc brake or hydraulic rim brake. Only the hydraulic master device and the hydraulic line 100, which leads to the hydraulic slave device (not shown), are shown, and whose structure is known to those skilled in the art.

[0053] The hydraulic master device 1 comprises a hydraulic cylinder 80 which is integrated in the steering tube 20 of the steering-controlled vehicle.

[0054] The handlebar tube 20 comprises an opening 21 through which a pressure piece 50 extends, which is pivotally arranged on a holder 40 which is fastened to the handlebar tube 20.

[0055] The hydraulic master device 1 comprises a lever 10, which is pivotally mounted on the mount 40. The rotation axis 41 for the pressure piece 50 and the lever 10 is identical in the illustrated embodiment.

[0056] Furthermore, a reach adjustment device 44 is provided, with which the initial position of the lever 10 in the rest position can be changed. The mount 40 is attached to the handlebar tube 20 with a clamp 42. An optional adapter 43 is provided on the clamp 42 to accommodate a switching device (not shown).

[0057] A displacement device 60 is provided in the handlebar tube 20 and is arranged so as to be displaceable along the longitudinal direction of the handlebar tube 20. The displacement device 60 can be designed as a guide. The displacement device 60 comprises a passage 61 in which a pulling device 70 is accommodated, and a passage 62 through which the hydraulic line 100 runs.

[0058] The Fig. 5 to 7 show the displacement device 60 and the Figures 8 to 9 show the pressure piece 50. The configuration described below secures the displacement device 60 against rotation in the handlebar tube 20. An anti-rotation device can be important because the hydraulic line 100 could exert a torque on the displacement device 60 due to twisting during assembly, particularly when the hydraulic line is routed through the passage 62.

[0059] To prevent rotation, the displacement device 60 has a web 63, which is received by two extensions 57 of the pressure piece 50. This ensures that the displacement device 60 cannot rotate relative to the pressure piece 50 in the circumferential direction of the handlebar tube 20.

[0060] The displacement device 60 comprises a groove 64 into which the pressure piece 50 can be inserted when the hydraulic unit is actuated.

[0061] When the lever 10 is actuated, the pressure piece 50 is rotated about the rotation axis 41 and moves the displacement device 60 towards the center of the vehicle, ie in Figure 1to the left. In the illustrated embodiment, the pulling device 70 is designed as a pull rod. The pulling device 70 has a head 71, on which the displacement device 60 engages and which displaces the pulling device 70 to the left when the lever 10 is actuated. The pulling device 70 has a main body 72 and a screw connection 73. The screw connection 73 acts as a piston of the master device 1 and is arranged in the hydraulic cylinder 80. It is secured with a screw 74. When the lever 10 is actuated, the screw 74 is pressed to the left against the force of a return spring 81. The return spring 81 is arranged in the pressure chamber 82 of the master cylinder 80.

[0062] To the right of the master cylinder 80 is an expansion tank 90 or reservoir for hydraulic fluid. The expansion tank 90 is bounded on the outside by the handlebar tube 20. At the handlebar end, the expansion tank is bounded by a cover 92 with a bellows 91. The bellows 91 separates the hydraulic fluid in the expansion tank 90 from a gas or air volume to compensate for hydraulic fluid flowing into the pressure chamber. In versions with an air volume within the bellows, this is connected to the outside air via a vent hole 98. An opening 93 with a vent screw 94 is provided in the cover 92. A cone 95 is provided in the opening 93 so that a commercially available syringe can be inserted to introduce hydraulic fluid into or withdraw it from the expansion tank.The cover 92 is secured against rotation by a screw 33 which is arranged in an opening 23 in the handle tube 20 and is screwed into the screw connection 73.

[0063] Outside the handlebar tube 20, a handle tube 30 is provided, which can be made of an elastic rubber material, for example.

[0064] The cylinder 80 is secured in the handlebar tube 20 against slipping and rotation by a screw 32 which is arranged in an opening 22 in the handlebar tube and screwed into the master cylinder 80.

[0065] The expansion tank 90 is connected to the pressure chamber 82 via an overflow channel 96. A primary seal 83 is provided on the screw connection 73, which, when the brake is applied, overflows the overflow channel and separates the pressure chamber 82 from the expansion tank 90, allowing pressure to build up in the pressure chamber 82.

[0066] The expansion tank 90 is sealed from the interior of the handlebar tube 20 by a seal 97 which is arranged between the handlebar tube 20 and the master cylinder 80.

[0067] A further seal 84 is provided on the pulling device 70 and seals the pressure chamber 82 against the main body 72 of the pulling device 70.

[0068] When the hydraulic master device 1 is actuated, the lever 10 is pressed downwards, whereby the pressure piece 50 is moved about the rotational axis 41 against the displacement device 60 and pushes it to the left. As a result, the pulling device 70 is moved to the left and pulls the piston, ie in the embodiment the screw connection 73, into the hydraulic cylinder 80 (in Fig. 1 to the left). This builds up pressure in the pressure chamber 82 and hydraulics are pressed into the hydraulic line 100, which is connected to the hydraulic slave (not shown).

[0069] The displacement device 60 has a contour 66 on the web, via the shape of which a progressive and / or degressive progression of the transmission ratio can be set as desired. As shown in Fig. 5shown, the contour 66 of the web 63 is relatively far to the right in the upper part and continues a little further to the right. The web 63 then tapers so that the contour runs further to the left. The result is that the transmission ratio does not decrease as sharply with increasing actuation as in a design with a straight contour. This is advantageous in designs of the invention which have a very low pivot point, which requires a high transmission ratio, which is undesirable at the beginning of actuation because the clearance is to be overcome quickly with almost no force, i.e. with a low transmission ratio. A high transmission ratio is only advantageous when pressure builds up. The contour can at least partially compensate for the disadvantage of the low pivot point, so that the decrease is not as sharp as with a straight contour.

[0070] The hydraulic master device 1 has a sensor device 130 for detecting the position and / or actuation of the hydraulic master device 1. The signal from the sensor device 130 can be used, for example, to indicate the actuation of the hydraulic master device 1 by illuminating a brake light using a suitable control device known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively or additionally, detecting the position of the hydraulic master device 1 can be used to activate a recuperation device that assists braking and simultaneously feeds energy into a storage device that can later be used to drive the vehicle. The recuperation device can be switched on, for example, as soon as the connection between the pressure chamber 80 and the compensation chamber 90 has been interrupted.This function can be used specifically by the driver, for example to achieve pure engine braking through recuperation when driving downhill, before the clearance between the brake pad and the brake disc or rim has been completely covered.

[0071] When executing the Figures 1 to 9The sensor device comprises a displacement sensor. A magnet 131 is arranged in a receptacle 65 of the displacement device 60. A Hall sensor 132 is provided on the handlebar tube, which detects the distance that the displacement device 60 has traveled within the handlebar tube 20. Depending on the geometry of the master cylinder, the displacement device 60 is initially displaced from the rest position approximately 2-3 mm into the handlebar tube 20 until the connection between the pressure chamber 82 and the compensation chamber 90 is interrupted. Upon further actuation, the displacement device 60 is displaced a further 5-6 mm into the handlebar tube 20, whereby the clearance between the brake pads and the brake disc or the rim is exceeded. In this area of ​​partial actuation, ie after the separation between the pressure chamber 82 and the compensation chamber 90, but before the clearance between the brake pads and the brake disc or the rim is exceeded, ieBefore the braking effect begins, it may be advantageous to apply a slight braking effect if the vehicle has an electric drive. The signal from the sensor device can then be used to activate recuperation, which includes a braking effect and can simultaneously feed the braking energy back into the system to recharge the energy storage device. Even with full application of the hydraulic device, assisting the brakes by activating recuperation can be advantageous or desirable.

[0072] In addition or alternatively to the sensor device 130 for detecting the position and / or actuation of the hydraulic master device 100, the detection of the pressure in the pressure chamber 82 can be used. For example, the recuperation device can be switched on as soon as the pressure in the pressure chamber 82 exceeds a certain threshold value. Exceeding the threshold value can indicate that a braking effect is achieved by the hydraulic device 1. This value can also be used, for example, to switch a brake light on or switch it off again when a slightly lower threshold value is undershot. The recuperation can also be switched off when a lower threshold value is undershot, which is slightly lower than the threshold value used for switching on. Alternatively or additionally, switching off can also be effected when the rest position is reached.

[0073] A display 140 can be provided in the handle tube 30 to indicate the fill level of the compensation chamber 90. The display 140 can be connected to the compensation chamber 90 via a suitable line or several suitable lines and can be designed as a transparent or translucent line to indicate the fill level. Alternatively or additionally, a suitable sensor can detect the fill level in the compensation chamber and activate the display accordingly. In this case, the display can comprise, for example, a series of optical displays, such as LED lamps. Other suitable displays known to those skilled in the art are conceivable.

[0074] Fig. 10 and Fig. 20 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 1 to 9shown embodiment of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0075] The master cylinder 80 comprises an extension 86 which extends to the end of the handlebar tube 20 and in which the expansion tank 90 is accommodated. The extension 86 has an outer diameter which substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the handlebar tube 20. Since the expansion tank is accommodated in the extension 86, the seal 97 of the Figures 1 to 3 shown version are omitted. This version has the advantage that it can be installed as a unit, including the expansion tank 90, in a handlebar tube.

[0076] Fig. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention which essentially corresponds to the Figures 1 to 910 and 20, respectively. The same reference numerals denote identical or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0077] The mount 40 is integrated into the handlebar tube 20. The clamp 42 and the adapter are thus eliminated. The switching unit can be mounted on the handlebar tube 20 in a manner known to those skilled in the art. Since the hydraulic master device 1, except for the lever 10 and associated components, is almost entirely housed in the handlebar tube 20 according to the invention, there is sufficient space for mounting the switching unit or other components.

[0078] Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 1 to 9shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0079] In this embodiment, the lever 10 is formed as a single piece. The pressure piece 50 of the other embodiments is integrated into the lever 10. The lever 10 is mounted on the sliding device 60 with its pressure piece section 50A corresponding to the pressure piece. The grip width adjustment device 44 is not present in this embodiment. The grip width can be changed, for example, by using different levers or in other ways known to those skilled in the art.

[0080] This embodiment, like the corresponding other embodiments of the invention, has the feature that, for example, the grip width can be adjusted by adjusting or shifting the holder 40 with the lever 10 relative to the displacement device 60, so that the grip width is adjusted due to the engagement between the pressure piece section 50A of the lever 10 and the displacement device 60. For this purpose, the holder 40 can be loosened by loosening the clamp 42, then moved along the handlebar tube 20 into the desired position, and finally fixed in the new position by tightening the clamp 42.

[0081] The pressure piece section 50A has, according to the design of the Figures 1 to 9 two extensions 57 which accommodate the web 63 to prevent rotation of the displacement device 60.

[0082] Figs. 14 and 15 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 1 to 9shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0083] The lever 10 and the pressure piece 50B are articulated to the holder 40 via two pivot points 41A and 41B and an arm 51A. The lever has an arm section 11, and the pressure piece 50B has an arm section 51B. The arm 51 is articulated to the holder 40 via the pivot axis 41B and connected to the lever 10 via the pivot axis 53. The pressure piece 50B is articulated to the holder via the pivot axis 41A and connected to the arm section 11 of the lever via the pivot axis 54.

[0084] The four axes of rotation 41A, 41B, 53 and 54 define a parallelogram whose sides are formed by the holder 40, the arm 51A, the arm section 51B and the arm section 11.

[0085] The mount 40 forms a fixed side. Upon actuation of the lever, the arm 51A and the arm section 51B rotate downwards, and the arm section 11 of the lever moves downwards. The lever 10 thus moves essentially parallel to the handlebar tube 20 and simultaneously experiences a slight movement in the longitudinal direction of the handlebar tube, which depends on the inclination of the arm 51A and the arm section 51B. At the same time, the pressure piece 50B is rotated about the rotation axis 41A and actuates the hydraulics in the manner described above by displacing the displacement device into the handlebar tube (in Fig. 8 to the left).

[0086] This design allows for comfortable and easy handling of the hydraulic master cylinder.

[0087] The Figures 16 and 17 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 14 and 15 shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0088] In this version, the linkage of the lever 10 in the rest position is selected such that the arm 51A and the arm section 51B of the pressure piece 50B run almost parallel to the handle tube 20. As a result, the lever 10 is initially moved only toward the center of the vehicle and not outward. This has the advantage that when the hydraulic master device is actuated, the unused fingers (e.g.when operated with two or one fingers) cannot easily get between the lever and the handlebar tube.

[0089] The Figures 18 to 21 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 1 to 3 shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0090] In this embodiment, a hydraulic channel 75 is provided in the pulling device 70, which runs from the pressure chamber 82 through the displacement device 60 to the connecting piece 102. Instead of a pull rod, a pull tube is thus provided, which serves as the hydraulic channel 75. The hydraulic channel 75 is connected to the pressure chamber 82 via an opening 76. This embodiment has the advantage that the passage 62 is not used for the hydraulic line, and therefore there is space in the passage 62 for other lines, which are particularly desirable for other tasks on e-bikes.

[0091] In this embodiment, the mount 40 is integrated into the handlebar tube 20. Two tabs 45 are formed on the handlebar tube, in which an axis is received as the rotation axis 41 for the lever 10.

[0092] The compensation chamber 90 has a compensation housing 120. The compensation chamber 90 is the space between the master cylinder 80 and the compensation housing 120 and the space in the compensation housing 120 as well as the corresponding connecting lines, such as the passage 93.

[0093] The compensation chamber 90 is not rotationally symmetrical here, but has the bleed screw 94 and the passage 93 on the upper side. The upper side in this context is the side of the handlebar tube that is on top in an upright vehicle. Fig. 18 This is the lower side, as the lever is usually mounted at an angle downwards to allow for a comfortable and natural posture when operating it.

[0094] On the lower side related to the orientation in operation (In Fig. 18 above) the bellows 91 is provided, which is pressed into the compensation housing 120 of the compensation tank 90 with a frame 110. The frame can be designed according to the Figures 30 and 31 be constructed according to the frame shown.

[0095] This orientation of the expansion chamber, with the vent screw 94 on the upper side, has the advantage that the system can be vented easily and safely. However, the fact that the passage is positioned on the upper side could be detrimental to operational safety, as air or gas could potentially collect there. To avoid this disadvantage, the passage 93 could be rotated relative to the vent screw 94, i.e., positioned at a lower location in the expansion housing 120.

[0096] The Figures 22 and 20 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 18 to 21shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0097] In this version, the mount 40 is attached to the handlebar tube with a clamp 42. This has the advantage that the reach can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the mount 40 relative to the sliding device 60.

[0098] The Figures 23 to 24 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 1 to 3shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0099] In the design of the Figures 23 and 24 The handlebar tube 30 is positioned closer to the center of the vehicle or handlebar relative to the lever 10 and the mount 40. In other words, the lever 10 is positioned on the outer side of the handlebar tube 20.

[0100] The head 71 of the pulling device 70 is therefore accessible from the outside of the handlebar tube 20, so that the reach of the lever 10 can be adjusted by changing the length of the pull rod (main body 72). For example, the head 71 could be designed as a screw that is screwed onto a threaded portion of the pull rod, so that the reach can be adjusted by rotating the head 71.

[0101] The screw connection 73, which forms the piston of the master cylinder 80 and to which the traction device 70 engages, has a nozzle 731 extending into the compensation chamber 90, which is located toward the center of the vehicle. A pressure line 85 is arranged in the nozzle 731 and communicates with the pressure chamber 82 via an opening 76.

[0102] The pressure line 85 runs through the compensation chamber 90 and is connected to a hydraulic line 100.

[0103] The sliding device 60 is arranged on the outside of the handlebar tube 20. The reach can be adjusted by sliding the mount 40 on the handlebar tube 20. Alternatively, the pulling device 70 can also be adjusted in the sliding device 60 by adjusting the head 71, which can be designed as a screw, relative to the main body 72, or by rotating the main body in the screw connection 73.

[0104] The master cylinder 80 is arranged relative to the displacement device 60 further towards the center of the vehicle or between the displacement device 60 and the compensation chamber 90.

[0105] The Figures 25 to 34 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figure 22shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0106] In this design, the vent screw 94 is located at the bottom. This has the disadvantage that, for the safest possible venting, the vehicle must be turned over or laid on its side, or positioned so that the vent screw 94 is positioned as high as possible for venting. However, this design has the advantage of greater operational reliability because the passage 93 is located further down, thus reducing the likelihood of air or gas being present there.

[0107] The master cylinder 80 has, like the design of the Figures 10 to 11an extension 86 in which the compensation chamber 90 is accommodated, so that the master cylinder 80 with the compensation chamber 90 can be introduced into the handlebar tube 20 as a pre-assembled unit. The compensation chamber 90 comprises or consists of a compensation housing 120 with the bellows 91, which is secured by a frame 110 in the compensation housing 120 at its bead 911. The compensation housing is arranged in the extension 86 of the master cylinder 80 and secured by two snap devices 122, 123 in the extension 86, which engage in corresponding openings as soon as the compensation housing 120 has been pushed far enough into the extension.

[0108] The compensation housing 120 has an end face 125 facing the master cylinder 80 or the screw connection 73, and an end face 124 facing away from the master cylinder 80 or the screw connection 73, which end face has a flattened portion 121. The flattened portion provides a connection from the top side of the bellows 91 to the outside, so that the bellows can move into and out of the compensation chamber with as little force as possible, i.e., the movement does not have to occur against a building up or dissipating pressure. The frame 110 has a corresponding flattened portion 111 on its outward-facing end face.

[0109] The Figures 35 to 45 show an alternative embodiment of the invention which is essentially the same as in the Figures 25 to 34shown embodiment of the invention or the other embodiments of the invention. Like reference numerals denote like or corresponding components or features. Reference is made to the description of the other embodiments of the invention. The following focuses on the differences.

[0110] The differential housing 120 is constructed in two parts. This is advantageous when manufactured using injection molding technology if a fill level indicator is to be provided at the handlebar end. Alternatively, the differential housing 120 can also be constructed in one piece with a fill level indicator at the handlebar end if it can be produced economically using other manufacturing processes, such as rapid prototyping. The illustrated two-part differential housing has a compensation section 150 and an indicator section 160, which are connected to one another at the end. A seal 161, which can be designed, for example, as an O-ring, is provided in the transition area. A web 151 is provided on the end of the compensation section above the passage 93, as shown in Fig. 36 shown.

[0111] The indicator section 160 is fluidly connected to the compensating section 150 via a passage 162 formed past the vent screw 94. As a result, the indicator section 160 is filled in the region 166 according to the fill level in the compensating section 150, so that the fill level can be read through the transparent end wall 163. For orientation or easy reading, as in the exemplary embodiment, markings 163 and 164 can be provided on the end wall 162, which indicate, for example, the reaching of a maximum or minimum fill level.

[0112] At the bottom of the expansion tank 150, projections 152 may be provided on which the bellows 91 can be supported when the hydraulic master device is evacuated, for example for filling.

[0113] Alternatively or in addition to the optical fill level indicator in the display section 160 or the display 140 of the other exemplary embodiments, a sensor device 170 can also be provided for detecting the fill level in the compensation chamber 90. For example, a magnet 171 can be provided on the bellows 91, the relative position of which is detected by a sensor 172. Depending on the fill level of the compensation chamber 90, the bellows 91 will sag. Therefore, the magnet 171 can advantageously be arranged in the center of the bellows in order to experience the greatest possible change in position depending on the fill level. The magnet can be arranged on the bellows 91 in a suitable manner. For example, the magnet 171 can be accommodated in a pocket formed on the bellows. Alternatively, the magnet 171 can also be fixed to the bellows by overmolding the bellows. Gluing or another suitable fastening method is conceivable.Such a sensor device for detecting the fill level of the compensation chamber can also be provided in the other embodiments.

[0114] On the extension 86, a web 126 or a rib is provided, which can be arranged as an anti-twist device in a corresponding recess provided at the end of the handlebar tube.

[0115] Of course, the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. The above description is therefore not to be considered restrictive, but rather illustrative. The following claims are to be understood as meaning that a stated feature is present in at least one embodiment of the invention. This does not exclude the presence of further features. Where the claims and the above description define "first" and "second" embodiments, this designation serves to distinguish between two similar embodiments without establishing a priority.

Claims

1. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) for a hydraulic brake or clutch of handlebar-guided vehicles, comprising a lever (10), which is pivotally arranged in a support (40), and a hydraulic cylinder (80), which can be arranged in a handlebar tube (20) of the handlebar-guided vehicle, the hydraulic master apparatus (1) having a pulling device (70) which, when the hydraulic master apparatus (1) is actuated, exerts a pulling force on the piston (73) of the hydraulic cylinder, characterized in that the hydraulic master apparatus (1) has a shifting device (60), which is arranged in the handlebar tube (20) of the handlebar-guided vehicle so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction of the handlebar tube (20).

2. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the puling device (70) comprises a pull rod.

3. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a hydraulic channel (75) from the hydraulic cylinder (80) to the hydraulic line (100) connected to the associated hydraulic slave apparatus is arranged in the pulling device (70).

4. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shifting device (60) is connected to the pulling device (70).

5. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lever (10) is hinged to two axes of rotation (41A, 41B), which are engaged by two arms (51A, 51B) pivotally arranged on the lever (10).

6. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the one arm (51 B) is part of a pressure piece (50B).

7. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hydraulic master apparatus (1) has a grip width adjusting apparatus, by means of which the distance between the support (40) for the lever (10) and the master cylinder (80) can be adjusted in order to adjust the grip width.

8. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (40) is movably arranged on the handlebar tube (20).

9. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the master cylinder (80) is movably arranged in the handlebar tube (20).

10. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length of the pulling device (70) is adjustable.

11. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pulling device has an anti-rotation member which prevents or restricts the twisting of the pulling device in the handlebar tube.

12. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the hydraulic master apparatus (1) has a compensating chamber (90) arranged in the handlebar tube.

13. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the master cylinder (80) is arranged between the support (40) for the lever (10) and the compensating chamber (90).

14. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of 12 to 13, characterized in that the master cylinder (80) is arranged between the shifting device (60) and the compensating chamber (90).

15. Hydraulic master apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the master cylinder has an extension (86) in which the compensating chamber (90) is arranged.