Signaling and spacing device for bicycles

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a signaling and spacing device for a cycle, such as a bicycle, comprising: - a long, flexible tube; - a mounting bracket configured to attach to a part of a cycle; - a fastener configured to secure the flexible tube at a proximal end of the flexible tube, said proximal end opposite a distal end of the flexible tube; - a hinge system between the mounting bracket and said fastener configured to allow at least one degree of rotational freedom about at least one axis of rotation (R1), oriented transversely to said longitudinal axis of the flexible tube; said hinge system being configured to allow the flexible tube to move from at least one first position (P1), in which the tube extends lengthwise transversely to the cycle, cantilevered laterally, to at least one second position (P2, P2', P2'''). Abstract figure: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Signaling and spacing device for cycles

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a signaling and spacing device, as well as to a cycle equipped with such a device.

[0002] The cycle may be a cycle whose propulsion is provided solely by the muscles, or assisted by a typically electric motor. Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of cyclist safety on the road. More specifically, the subject matter here is signaling and spacing devices for bicycles that encourage road users to widen their trajectory, for example when overtaking or crossing a bicycle.

[0004] The device conventionally comprises an arm or an elongated object extending from the side of the bicycle and fixed to the bicycle, in lateral overhang of the cycle. Prior art

[0005] According to document US3967575, it is known to fix a device at the rear mudguard of the bicycle, comprising an element in the form of a short rod with a reflective and / or fluorescent flag. The rod can be manually oriented by the cyclist, to the left, to the right, to the rear of the bicycle, via controls at the front of the bicycle typically fixed on the handlebars. The control system uses a cable transmission. The deployed rod-flag device encourages vehicles to increase the safety distance around the bicycle, and the orientation of the flag warns road users of changes of direction chosen by the cyclist. However, this is a signaling device that requires high integration into the cycle, namely a relatively expensive solution, due to the control system. This solution cannot be adapted to all cycles, in particular those without mudguards.

[0006] Document US2012060746 proposes another solution by disclosing a bicycle spacer device, comprising an elongated element extended on one side of the bicycle, this time flexible, comprising a foam tube so that the elongated element flexes during an impact with a vehicle without hindering or unbalancing the cyclist. The foam tube is fixed on a crossbar at the rear of the bicycle, by means of a longitudinal slot in the tube, at a proximal end of the tube inside which is elastically inserted the crossbar secured to the bicycle. The device can also be made of two parts, including the foam tube forming the first part, the second part secured at a distal end of the flexible tube separating easily in the unlikely event that This remains attached to a vehicle. On the other hand, the elongated element is fixed on one side of the bicycle. Such an inexpensive solution requires it to be fixed cantilevered on one side of the bicycle. Summary

[0007] The present disclosure improves the situation.

[0008] A signaling and spacing device for a cycle such as a bicycle is provided, comprising: - a flexible, elongated sausage, extending along a longitudinal axis, - a fixing bracket configured to attach to a part of a cycle, - a fastener, configured to secure the flexible tube; at a proximal end of the flexible tube, said proximal end opposite a distal end of the flexible tube, - an articulation system between the fixing support and said attachment configured to allow at least one degree of freedom in rotation, along at least one axis of rotation oriented transversely to said longitudinal axis of the flexible tube, said articulation system being configured to allow the flexible tube to pass from at least a first position for which the tube extends lengthwise transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to at least a second position.

[0009] The features set out in the following paragraphs may, optionally, be implemented, independently of one another or in combination with one another:

[0010] According to one embodiment, the articulation system is configured to allow the flexible tube to pass from at least a first position for which the flexible tube extends lengthwise transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to at least the second position which is selectively: / A / a second position of the flexible tube for which the flexible tube is retracted, in particular aligned in a plane of the cycle frame, for example vertically, or even aligned horizontally, / B / a second position for which the flexible tube extends transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, on the other side of the cycle relative to the side of the overhang of the flexible tube in said at least one first position, / C / a second position of the flexible sausage for which the flexible sausage covers the frame in order to protect it.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the flexible sausage comprises at least at the periphery, or is preferably made of a crosslinked polyethylene foam, typically extruded.

[0012] According to one embodiment, said attachment comprises a collar system comprising a clamp collar configured to encase the flexible tube at said proximal end. The clamp collar may preferably be through-clamping to allow different attachment positions of the collar along the flexible tube at said proximal end.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the flexible sausage has: - a diameter greater than 4 cm, in particular between 4 cm and 12 cm, such as 6 cm, - a length greater than or equal to 40 cm, for example 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm or 80 cm.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the fixing support comprises a spacer comprising a first longitudinal end comprising a seat configured to bear on a seat post, and a second longitudinal end cooperating with said articulation system.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the articulation system comprises a first degree of freedom in rotation, along a first axis of rotation oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flexible tube, in particular perpendicular, and a second degree of freedom in rotation, along a second axis of rotation, oriented transverse to the first axis of rotation, in particular perpendicular.

[0016] In particular, the articulation system may comprise two articulations in series with: - a first articulation comprising a first guide part secured to said attachment and a second guide part, said first guide part and the second guide part, mutually coupled in rotation along said first axis of rotation, - a second articulation comprising a third guide part secured to the second guide part and a fourth guide part secured to the fixing support, the third guide part and the fourth guide part coupled in rotation along the second axis of rotation.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the first articulation comprises mechanical indexing means between the first guide part and the second guide part allowing angular position locking according to determined angular orientations between the first part and the second part along the first axis of rotation, and / or the second articulation comprises mechanical indexing means between the third guide part and the fourth guide part allowing angular position locking according to determined angular orientations between the third part and the fourth part along the first axis of rotation.

[0018] In particular, the mechanical indexing means of the first articulation comprise at least one male / female relief of the first guide part configured to cooperate selectively with female / male reliefs distributed on the second guide part around the first axis of rotation, the first guide part and the second guide part held in pressure against each other in the direction of the first axis of rotation by a spring system to ensure engagement between said male and female reliefs, and said first guide part and second guide part configured to move apart to allow escape from the engagement and a change in angular position.

[0019] In particular, the mechanical indexing means of the second articulation comprise at least one male / female relief of the third guide part configured to cooperate selectively with female / male reliefs distributed angularly on the fourth guide part around the second axis of rotation, the third guide part and the fourth guide part held in pressure against each other by a spring system in the direction of the second axis of rotation to ensure engagement between said male and female reliefs, and said third guide part and fourth guide part (522) configured to move apart to allow escape from the engagement and a change in angular position.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first articulation is configured to pass the flexible tube from the first position for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to a second vertically raised position for which the distal end of the flexible tube is directed upwards, and in which the first articulation comprises means for limiting the angular travel between the first guide part and the second guide part comprising in particular an arcuate groove secured to the first part and a lug penetrating the arcuate groove configured to move according to a limited angular travel in the arcuate groove, and in which at least in at least one first position for which the tube extends transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang,the end-of-travel limiting means ensure blocking of the first articulation configured to ensure that the flexible tube is held in position against gravity.

[0021] According to one embodiment: - the first guide part of the first joint, and the clamping collar of the clamping collar system of the attachment are formed by a single-piece plastic element, typically molded and / or - the second guide part and the third guide part are formed by a single-piece, typically molded, plastic element, and / or - said spacer, said seat for the seat post and the fourth guide part are formed by a single-piece plastic element, typically molded.

[0022] The present disclosure also relates to an assembly comprising a cycle and a signaling and spacing device according to the present disclosure, the fixing support of which is fixed to the cycle, in particular on a seat post of the cycle.

[0023] According to one embodiment, said articulation system and said flexible tube are configured to pass the flexible tube from the first position in lateral overhang, to said at least second position which is a frame protection position in which the flexible tube is folded against a frame of the cycle, in particular folded along a top tube of the bicycle frame, the top tube joining the seat tube and diagonal tube of the frame.

[0024] The present disclosure also relates to the use of the signaling and spacing device according to the present disclosure; the fixing support of which is fixed to a cycle, in particular to the seat post, in said at least one first position for which said flexible tube extends in lateral overhang, as a danger spreader, and in at least one second position in which the flexible tube is folded against a frame of the cycle, in particular on a top tube as a frame protection element in particular when the cycle is parked resting against a support with the flexible tube. Brief description of the drawings

[0025] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig.l

[0026] [Fig.l] is a view of a cycle, in particular a bicycle comprising a signaling and spacing device according to the present disclosure, comprising a fixing support fixed to the rear part of the cycle, on a seat post, a fastener comprising a clamping collar enclosing a flexible tube at a proximal end, and an articulation system between said fixing support and said fastener comprising two degrees of freedom in rotation, along a first axis of rotation, substantially horizontal, and a second axis of rotation, substantially vertical. Fig. 2

[0027] [Fig.2] is a view of the cycle according to [Fig.l], illustrating in solid lines the flexible tube, in a first lateral cantilever position of the cycle, on the left, and in dotted lines, different angular positions of the flexible tube, said positions obtained by rotation of the flexible tube around the first axis of rotation of the articulation system, and up to a cantilever position on the right, the different positions including an intermediate position for which the flexible tube is retracted to the vertical in the plane of the cycle frame. Fig. 3

[0028] [Fig.3] is a view of the cycle according to [Fig.l], illustrating the flexible sausage in solid line in a horizontal position, and in the plane of the cycle frame, a free end of the tube directed towards the rear, and in dotted lines, different angular positions of the flexible tube obtained by pivoting the flexible tube around the second axis of rotation, in particular up to a position of the flexible tube, substantially at 180°, for which the flexible tube covers an upper tube of the cycle frame in order to protect it. Fig. 4

[0029] [Fig.4] is an exploded view of the signaling device, (flexible sausage not shown) including, from right to left; - a first single-piece plastic part, typically molded, forming a clamping collar for the fastener, and a first guide part of a first articulation offering a first degree of freedom in rotation along a first axis of rotation, - a second single-piece plastic part, typically molded, forming a second guide part configured to cooperate in rotation with the first guide part along the first axis of rotation, and a third guide part of a second articulation offering a second degree of freedom in rotation along a second axis of rotation, - a third single-piece plastic part, typically molded, comprising a spacer having at a first longitudinal end, a concave seat intended to bear on a seat post of the cycle, and at a second longitudinal end a fourth guide part configured to cooperate in rotation with the third part along the second axis of rotation, and - a fourth plastic part forming a counter-support element configured to cooperate in tightening with the concave seat so as to grip the seat post via fixing members such as screw / nut systems, ensuring tightening between said counter-support element and the concave seat. Fig. 5

[0030] [Fig.5] is a detailed view of the articulation system comprising the first arti culation offering a first axis of rotation and the second articulation according to a second axis of rotation, perpendicular to the first axis of rotation. Fig. 6a

[0031] [Fig.6a] is a detail figure of the third plastic part of [Fig.3], illustrating in particular the fourth guide part which comprises on a body typically plastic of female reliefs regularly spaced every 30° around the second axis of rotation, on a first half-circumference of the body, and an isolated female relief on a second half-circumference of the body, opposite. Fig. 6b

[0032] [Fig.6b] is a detail view of the second plastic part of [Fig.3], illustrating in particular the third guide part which comprises a male relief configured to selectively engage with the female reliefs of the fourth guide part in order to ensure angular position locking around the second axis of rotation according to angular orientations defined by the female reliefs. Fig. 7a

[0033] [Fig.7a] is a detailed view of the second plastic part of [Fig.3], illustrating in detail in particular the second guide part, which comprises on a body female reliefs regularly spaced every 30° around the second axis of rotation, on a first half-circumference of the body, and a lug acting as an end-of-travel stop on a second half-circumference of the body. Fig. 7b

[0034] [Fig.7b] is a detail view of the first plastic part which comprises: - a male relief configured to selectively engage with the female reliefs of the second guide part in order to ensure angular position locking around the first axis of rotation according to the angular orientations defined by the female reliefs, - an arcuate groove configured to receive said lug and forming with said lug acting as an end-of-travel stop a means of limiting the angular travel according to the travel permitted by the groove, namely 180° around the first axis of rotation. Description of the embodiments

[0035] The present disclosure relates to a signaling and spacing device 1 for a cycle such as a bicycle, comprising: - a flexible, elongated sausage 2, extending along a longitudinal axis 20, - a fixing support 3 configured to be fixed on a part of a cycle, in particular following a rear position of the cycle, - a fastener 4, configured to secure the flexible tube at a proximal end of the flexible tube, said proximal end opposite a distal end of the flexible tube, - an articulation system 5 between the fixing support 3 and said attachment 4 configured to allow at least one degree of freedom in rotation along at least one axis of rotation RI, oriented transversely to said longitudinal axis of the flexible tube.

[0036] The flexible, elongate sausage may be rectilinear, in which case, the longitudinal axis 20 coincides with the flexible sausage. The present disclosure does not prohibit the elongate sausage from having a curvature along its longitudinal axis 20. In such a case, the longitudinal axis of said elongate element is determined as that passing through the proximal end and the distal end of the flexible sausage.

[0037] According to one embodiment, a reflective support may be secured at the distal end of the flexible tube. The reflective support may be rigid and mechanically secured at the distal end of the flexible tube. The reflective support is preferably a flexible element such as a reflective strip, secured at the distal end, for example by means of an adhesive.

[0038] According to the present disclosure, the articulation system 5 is configured to allow the flexible tube to pass from at least a first position PI for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to at least a second position P2, P2', P2”.

[0039] The second position of the flexible tube may be a position of the flexible tube 2 for which the flexible tube 2 is retracted, in particular aligned in a plane of the cycle frame, for example vertically, as illustrated according to the second position marked P2, or else aligned horizontally as illustrated according to the second position marked P2”.

[0040] Advantageously, the second position can also be a second position, marked P2' for which the flexible tube covers the frame in order to protect it, and as illustrated for information purposes in [Fig.3]. In particular and according to an advantageous embodiment, in said second position P2', the flexible tube 2 extends, from its proximal end and to its free distal end, from the rear to the front of the cycle frame, protecting it, for example covering, a top tube Tsup of a cycle frame.

[0041] Indeed, a cycle frame usually comprises for those skilled in the art a triangle formed by: - a Td downtube that extends from a high position of a head tube to a bottom bracket, - a Tsel seat tube which extends along a vertical component of the bottom bracket, up to a high position, having an upper opening into which a seat post of the saddle is inserted, - the Tsup top tube which extends in an upper position from the seat tube to the head tube.

[0042] The articulation system 5 can also be typically configured to allow the flexible tube to pass from at least a first position PI for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, on one side of the cycle, up to a second position P2”' for which the flexible tube extends lengthwise transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, on the other side of the cycle.

[0043] Thus and generally, the articulation system 5 can be configured to allow the flexible tube 2 to pass from at least a first position PI for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to at least the second position which is selectively: / A / a second position P2, P2' ' of the flexible tube 2 for which the flexible tube is retracted, in particular aligned in a plane of the cycle frame, for example vertically, or else aligned horizontally, / B / a second position P2”' for which the flexible tube 2 extends transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, on the other side of the cycle relative to the overhang side of the flexible tube 2 in said at least one first position PI, but still preferably and advantageously, / C / a second position P2' of the flexible tube for which the flexible tube covers the frame in order to protect it.

[0044] The possibility / A / namely the second position (P2 or P2”) of the flexible tube 2 for which the flexible tube is retracted, in particular in the plane of the cycle frame, makes it possible to retract the flexible tube, in particular when the circulation path is narrow, and in order to prevent the flexible tube 2 from hitting / rubbing on an obstacle during circulation of the cycle.

[0045] The possibility / B / namely the second position P2' ' ' for which the flexible tube 2 extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, on the other side of the cycle (relative to the overhang side of the flexible tube 2 in said at least one first position PI), makes it possible to change the direction of overhang of the flexible tube, in particular according to the direction of circulation.

[0046] For example, when the cycle travels in the same direction as vehicles, typically cars, the direction of lateral overhang of the flexible flange may be to the left for traffic regulations requiring right-hand traffic (RHT). However, it may be useful to change the direction of lateral overhang of the flexible flange when the cycle lane is in the opposite direction to the traffic lane of motor vehicles, namely from left to right. For traffic regulations requiring left-hand traffic (LHT), the directions of overhang of the flexible flange are obviously reversed.

[0047] The possibility / C / , namely the second position P2' of the flexible tube for which the flexible tube 2 covers the frame in order to protect it is particularly advantageous when the cycle is no longer in circulation, in particular when it is stored / parked. The flexible tube then covers the frame in order to protect it in particular from scratches, by being inserted between the frame and a support which can be a wall or another cycle on which the cycle is based.

[0048] In such a case, the signaling and spacing device not only combines: - a first function of signaling element / spacer element, in order to reduce the danger and in particular to encourage other vehicles to widen their trajectory, but even more, - a second function of protective element in particular of the frame.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the flexible tube 2 may comprise, at least at the periphery, or is preferably made of, a plastic foam, in particular crosslinked polyethylene, typically extruded. Such a material, namely a plastic foam in particular polyethylene, provides contact and flexibility which absorbs shocks in the event of contact between the flexible tube and a road user. When the cycle is in circulation, the risk of injury is avoided in the event that the flexible tube comes into contact with a user such as a pedestrian. Such a material also ensures non-abrasive contact with the frame which protects it from scratches when the flexible tube is folded down onto said frame in order to protect it.

[0050] The flexible tube 2 may preferably be made of a polyethylene foam, which can typically be obtained at lower cost by extrusion.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the flexible sausage 2 has: - a diameter greater than 4 cm, in particular between 4 cm and 12 cm, such as 6 cm, - a length greater than or equal to 40 cm, for example 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm or 80 cm.

[0052] Such dimensions are compatible with the objectives pursued, namely providing a spacer member of sufficient size to form a spacer in lateral overhang to the cycle with the function of a danger spreader, or even optionally and advantageously providing a flexible flange of sufficient thickness / length to ensure protection of the frame when folded against the latter.

[0053] According to one embodiment, said attachment 4 comprises a collar system comprising a clamping collar 40 configured to encase the flexible tube 2, at said proximal end. A clamping collar 40 ensures reliable retention of the flexible tube 2, at its proximal end, essentially by compression of the flexible tube, in particular when the latter is made of plastic foam, a material with low tensile strength, avoiding the risk of tearing of the foam.

[0054] The clamping collar 40 may preferably be a through element, along the longitudinal direction of the flexible tube 2, so that the flexible tube is configured to pass through the collar by protruding from the latter on both sides thereof, along the axis longitudinal of the flexible sausage 20.

[0055] A through-clamp design advantageously allows its attachment to the flexible tube, selectively in several positions along the length of the flexible tube at its proximal end. The operator can thus adjust the useful overhang length of the danger spacer, said useful length determined between the attachment 4 and the distal end of the flexible tube 2.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the clamping collar 40 can be obtained by a single-piece plastic element comprising a first collar portion 401, and a second collar portion 402, secured to each other by means of a flexible material bridge 403. In general, the first collar portion 401, and the second collar portion can respectively comprise two semi-cylindrical parts.

[0057] The first collar portion 401, and the second collar portion 402, are configured to grip the flexible tube, by being arranged diametrically opposite one another on the tube, in particular by folding or curving the flexible material bridge 403.

[0058] One or more fixing members (not shown), typically one or more screw / nut systems, pass through orifices OR distributed over the first collar portion 401 and the second collar portion 402 to ensure the clamping of the collar on the periphery of the flexible tube 2. For example in [Fig.7b], the first collar portion 401 and the second collar portion 402 comprise two pairs of orifices, distributed over the two collar portions 401, 402, configured to ensure the clamping of the two collar portions 401, 402, by two screw-nut systems, in parallel, passing through the flexible tube, at two holes, each oriented in a diametrical direction of the flexible tube. The two holes for the screw / nut systems are offset in length in the longitudinal direction of the flexible tube.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the fixing support 3 may comprise a spacer 30 comprising a first longitudinal end comprising a seat 31 configured to come to bear on a seat post, and a second longitudinal end cooperating with said articulation system 5.

[0060] The seat 31 may have a concave part, comprising two support surfaces 310, inclined in a V intended to come into stable support along two contact generatrices of the seat post. A removable counter-support piece 6 is positioned diametrically opposite the seat relative to the seat post to ensure the fixing of the fixing support, by tightening the rod between the seat 31 and the counter-support piece 6, typically, by means of screw-nut systems coming into orifices OR distributed between the counter-support piece 6 and the seat 31.

[0061] The elongated spacer 30 can extend in a rectilinear direction. The spacer 30 is preferably inclined relative to the seat 31 so as to ensure an inclination of a longitudinal axis of the spacer relative to the seat post by an angle strictly less than 90°, typically between 30° and 60°. Such an inclination ensures an arrangement of the spacer 30 which is rising, from the first longitudinal end comprising the seat 31 resting on the seat post, and up to the second longitudinal end cooperating with the articulation system 5. Such an upward inclination in particular allows the integration of a luggage rack below the signaling and spacing device.

[0062] Such an inclination of the spacer, rising towards the rear of the cycle, when moving away from the seat post, thus makes it possible to equip cycles comprising a luggage rack, in particular those which are attached to the chainstays / stays of the cycle, and without conflict between the luggage rack and the signaling device 1 according to the present disclosure. The length of the spacer can typically be between 15 cm and 30 cm.

[0063] The fixing bracket 3 (in particular the spacer 30) can be fixed in one position on the frame, and so that said fixing bracket extends in a plane of the cycle frame, and as illustrated for information purposes in Figures 1 to 3.

[0064] Other positions of the fixing support 3 relative to the cycle can be envisaged. For example, it is possible to orient the fixing support and its spacer around the seat post by different supports of the seat 31 on the seat post, so that the spacer 30 is oriented forming an angle typically greater than 0° and even typically less than or equal to 90° with a plane of the cycle frame. Such an inclined position, in particular the spacer projecting to the right or left of the frame, can allow in particular: - to increase the total lateral overhang of the danger spacer, when the spacer projects laterally in relation to the cycle frame, on the same side as the overhang of the flexible flange, - to reduce the total overhang of the danger spacer, when the spacer protrudes laterally from the frame on the opposite side to the overhang of the flexible flange.

[0065] According to an advantageous embodiment, the articulation system 5 may comprise a first degree of freedom in rotation, along a first axis of rotation RI oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flexible tube 2, in particular perpendicular, and a second degree of freedom in rotation, along a second axis of rotation R2, oriented transverse to the first axis of rotation RI, in particular perpendicular to the latter.

[0066] The articulation system 5 with two degrees of freedom along the first axis of rotation RI and the second axis of rotation R2, offers easy manipulation of the flexible tube 2 in a large number of positions.

[0067] The cyclist sitting on the saddle can more easily grasp the flexible cushion and move to change position, without getting off the saddle. The articulation system 5 may, according to a non-preferred and not illustrated example, be a ball joint.

[0068] According to another preferred embodiment, the articulation system 5 preferably comprises two pivot links in series.

[0069] Thus, the articulation system 5 can comprise: - a first articulation 51 comprising a first guide part 511 secured to said attachment 4 and a second guide part 512, said first guide part 511 and the second guide part 512, mutually coupled in rotation along said first axis of rotation RI, - a second articulation 52 comprising a third guide part 521 secured to the second guide part 511 and a fourth guide part 522 secured to the fixing support 3, the third guide part 521 and the fourth guide part 522 coupled in rotation along the second axis of rotation R2.

[0070] The first guide part 511 and the second guide part 512 of the first articulation 51 may be made of plastic, in particular obtained by molding, and may comprise rotational guide parts, namely a projecting, typically conical, PLT stud and a complementary-shaped CG guide cavity. The two guide parts, in particular the PLT stud and the CG guide cavity, are distributed respectively on the first part 511 and the second guide part 512, or vice versa. The PLT stud pivots in the CG guide cavity to ensure rotation between the two parts 511, 512 around the first rotation axis RL.

[0071] The third guide part 521 and the fourth guide part 522 of the second articulation 52 may be made of plastic, in particular obtained by molding, and may comprise rotation guide parts, namely a projecting, typically conical, PLT stud and a complementary shaped CG guide cavity, distributed respectively over the third part 521 and the fourth guide part 522, or vice versa. The PLT stud pivots in the CG guide cavity to ensure rotation between the two parts 521, 522 around the second axis of rotation RL.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first articulation 51 may comprise mechanical indexing means between the first guide part 511 and the second guide part 512 allowing angular position locking according to determined angular orientations between the first part and the second part along the first axis of rotation RI, and / or the second articulation 52 comprises mechanical indexing means between the third guide part 521 and the fourth guide part 522 allowing angular position locking according to determined angular orientations between the third part and the fourth part along the first axis of rotation R2.

[0073] The indexing means of the first articulation 51 may comprise at least one male / female relief 513 of the first guide part 511 configured to cooperate selectively with female / male reliefs 514 distributed on the second guide part 512 around the first axis of rotation RI.

[0074] For example in [Fig.7a] and [Fig.7b], the relief 513 of the first guide part is a male relief which is configured to selectively engage with female reliefs 514 distributed on the second guide part 512 around the first axis of rotation. The change of position from one angular position to another angular position is carried out by the operator, who may be the cyclist sitting on the saddle by grasping the flexible flange, and by exerting a force so as to move from one indexing position to another, and advantageously without requiring the operator to perform any other specific action to lock the angular position of the flange. Such a design allows a change of angular position of the flexible flange around the first axis of rotation RI, quickly, and advantageously without requiring the cyclist to get off the saddle.

[0075] For this purpose, and according to one embodiment, the first guide part 511 and the second guide part 512 can be held in pressure against each other in the direction of the first axis of rotation RI by a spring system SPG to ensure engagement between said male and female reliefs 513, 514, and said first guide part 511 and second guide part 512 configured to move apart, in the direction of the first axis of rotation RI, to allow escape from the engagement and a change in angular position.

[0076] The indexing means of the second articulation 52 may comprise at least one male / female relief 523 of the third guide part 521 configured to cooperate selectively with female / male reliefs 524 distributed angularly on the fourth guide part 522 around the second axis of rotation R2.

[0077] For example, in [Fig.6a] and [Fig.6b], the third guide portion 521 comprises a male relief 523, which is configured to selectively engage with female reliefs 524 distributed on the fourth guide portion 522 around the second axis of rotation R2. The change of position from one angular position to another angular position is carried out by the operator, who may be the cyclist sitting on the saddle, by grasping the flexible flange, and by exerting a force so as to move from one indexing position to another, and advantageously without requiring the operator to perform any other specific action to lock the angular position of the flange. Such a design allows a change of angular position of the flexible flange around the second axis of rotation R2, quickly, and advantageously without requiring the cyclist to get off the saddle.

[0078] For this purpose, the third guide part 521 and the fourth guide part 522 can be held in pressure against each other by a spring system SPG following the direction of the second axis of rotation R2 to ensure engagement between said male and female reliefs 523, 524, and said third guide part 521 and fourth guide part 522 configured to move apart to allow escape from the engagement and a change in angular position.

[0079] The mechanical indexing means of the first articulation 51 may extend over an angular range around the first axis of rotation RI preferably greater than or equal to 90°, for example 180°. The angular pitch between two indexing positions may be 30°, and more generally between 15° and 45°.

[0080] The mechanical indexing means of the second articulation 52 may extend over an angular range around the second axis of rotation R2 preferably greater than or equal to 90°, for example 180°. The angular pitch between two indexing positions may be 30°, and more generally between 15° and 45°.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the first axis of rotation RI of the first articulation 51 is in a position of use of the device attached to the cycle, oriented along a substantially horizontal axis of rotation, or close to the horizontal by + or -20°, allowing pivoting of the flexible tube 2 around the first axis of rotation RI, in a substantially vertical plane, or close to the vertical, and as illustrated in [Fig.2],

[0082] The second axis of rotation R2 of the second articulation 52 is, in a position of use of the device attached to the cycle, oriented along a substantially vertical axis of rotation, allowing pivoting of the flexible tube 2 around the second axis of rotation R2, in a substantially horizontal plane, and as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0083] The pivoting of the flexible tube around the first articulation 51 can make it possible to orient the flexible tube 2 from a vertical position for which the distal end of the flexible tube is directed upwards, to a horizontal position of the flexible tube.

[0084] Generally speaking, thanks to the two degrees of freedom, the flexible tube 2 can be pivoted in a horizontal plane, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], in a vertical plane as illustrated in [Fig. 3]. The flexible tube can benefit from the two degrees of freedom to be pivoted into any angular position between these planes, and as illustrated in [Fig. 1].

[0085] At least in an angular position of the second articulation 52, the first articulation 51 is configured to pass the flexible tube 2 from the first position PI for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to a second vertical rise P2 for which the distal end of the flexible tube is directed upwards.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the first articulation 51 may comprise means for limiting the angular travel between the first guide part 511 and the second guide part 512. At least in at least one first position PI for which the tube extends transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, the end-of-travel limiting means ensure blocking of the first articulation 51, said blocking being configured to ensure that the flexible tube 2 is held in position against gravity, substantially horizontally.

[0087] Such an angular limitation means advantageously prevents the flexible tube 2 from pivoting around the first axis of rotation RI, to a position where its distal end points downwards.

[0088] Generally, the means for limiting the angular travel may comprise in particular an arcuate groove 515 secured to the first part and a lug 516 penetrating the arcuate groove 515 configured to move along a limited angular travel, in the arcuate groove 515.

[0089] In Figures 7a and 7b, it can be seen that the lug 516 with a stop function is carried by the second guide part 512 and the arcuate groove 515 by the first guide part 511. In general, the positions of the groove 515 and the lug 516 can be reversed.

[0090] Generally, the means for limiting the angular travel can limit the angular travel of the second articulation by 180° around the first axis of rotation RI. A blocking at the end of travel of the flexible tube 2 is obtained, not only at said at least one first position PI, in lateral overhang on one side of the cycle, but also according to the second position P2”' for which the flexible tube is in overhang on the other side of the cycle, after pivoting of the flexible tube by 180° around the first axis of rotation RI, and as illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0091] The limited angular travel is defined, at least according to one embodiment, by the dimension of the arcuate groove 515, which allows a limited angular displacement of the lug 516 of 180° around the first axis of rotation RI.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the first guide part 511 of the first articulation 51, and the clamping collar 40 of the clamping collar system of the attachment are formed by a single-piece plastic element, in particular a first plastic element, typically molded in particular by injection techniques.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the second guide part 512 and the third guide part 521 are formed by a single-piece plastic element, in particular a second plastic element, typically molded by injection techniques.

[0094] According to one embodiment, said spacer 30, said seat 31 for the seat post and the fourth guide part are formed by a single-piece plastic element, in particular a third plastic element, typically injection-molded.

[0095] Thus, at least according to an advantageous embodiment of manufacturing at lower cost, the signaling device may include three plastic parts, first plastic element, second plastic part and third plastic part.

[0096] The present disclosure also relates to an assembly comprising a cycle and a signaling and spacing device 1 whose fixing support 3 is fixed to the cycle, in particular on a seat post.

[0097] According to one embodiment, said articulation system 5 and said flexible tube 2 are configured to pass the flexible tube 2 from the first position PI in lateral overhang, to said at least second position which is a position P2' for protecting the frame in which the flexible tube 2 is folded against a frame of the cycle V, in particular folded along a top tube TSup of the bicycle frame, the top tube TSup joining the seat tube Tsel and diagonal tube Td of the frame.

[0098] The present disclosure also relates to the use of the signaling and spacing device 1 according to the present disclosure, the fixing support 3 of which is fixed to a cycle, in particular to the seat post, in said at least one first position PI for which said flexible tube 2 extends in lateral overhang, as a danger spreader, and in at least one second position P2' in which the flexible tube 2 is folded against a frame of the cycle, in particular on a top tube TSup as an element for protecting the frame, in particular when the cycle is parked resting against a support with the flexible tube. List of reference signs

[0099] - 1. Signaling device, - 2. Soft sausage, - 3. Mounting bracket, - 30. Spacer, - 31. Seat (seat post), - 4. Attach, - 40. Hose clamp, - 401, 402. First and second portion of necklace - 403. Bridge of flexible material, - 5. Articulation system, - 51. First articulation, - RL First axis of rotation, - 511. First part of guidance, - 512 Second part of guidance, - 513, 514. Respectively male and female reliefs (mechanical indexing means of the first articulation), - 515, 516. Arched groove, lug (means of limiting the angular travel); - 52. Second articulation, - R2. Second articulation axis, -521. Third part of guidance, - 522. Fourth part of guidance, - 523, 524. Respectively male and female reliefs (mechanical indexing means of the second articulation 52), - 6. Counter-support piece, - PI. First position (of the flexible sausage in lateral overhang of the cycle), - P2. Second position of the flexible sausage retracted vertically, - P2'. Second position of the flexible sausage folded against the frame of a cycle, - P2”. Second position of the flexible sausage, extending parallel to the plane of a cycle frame, approximately horizontally, - P2”. Second position of the flexible tube, extending in lateral overhang of the cycle, on the opposite side with respect to said at least one first position. - TSup. Upper tube, - Down tube, - Tsel. Seat tube - PLT, CG. Respectively plot and guide cavity.

Claims

Claims

1. Signaling and spacing device (1) for a cycle such as a bicycle, comprising - a flexible, elongated sausage (2), extending along a longitudinal axis (20), - a fixing support (3) configured to be fixed to a part of a cycle, - a fastener (4), configured to secure the flexible tube at a proximal end of the flexible tube, said proximal end opposite a distal end of the flexible tube, - an articulation system (5) between the fixing support (3) and said attachment (4), configured to allow a first degree of freedom in rotation, along a first axis of rotation (RI) oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis of the flexible tube (2), in particular perpendicular, and configured to allow a second degree of freedom in rotation, along a second axis of rotation (R2), oriented transverse to the first axis of rotation (RI), in particular perpendicular, in which said articulation system (5) is configured to allow the passage of the flexible tube (2) from at least a first position (PI) for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to at least a second position (P2, P2', P2”, P2'”) which is selectively: - / A / a second position (P2, P2”) of the flexible tube (2) for which the flexible tube (2) is retracted, in particular aligned in a plane of the cycle frame, for example vertically, or else aligned horizontally, - / B / a second position (P2”') for which the flexible tube (2) extends transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, on the other side of the cycle relative to the side of the overhang of the flexible tube (2) in said at least one first position (PI) - / C / a second position (P2') of the flexible tube (2) for which the flexible tube covers the frame in order to protect it, and in which said fixing support (3) comprises a spacer (30) comprising a first longitudinal end comprising a seat (31) configured to come to bear on a seat post, and a second longitudinal end cooperating with said articulation system (5).

2. A signaling device according to claim 1, wherein said spacer (30) is inclined relative to the seat (31) so as to ensure an inclination of a longitudinal axis of the spacer (30) relative to the seat post by an angle strictly less than 90°, typically between 30° and 60°, ensuring an arrangement of the spacer (30) which is rising, from the first longitudinal end comprising the seat (31) resting on the seat post, and up to the second longitudinal end cooperating with the articulation system (5).

3. Signaling device according to claim 1 or 2, in which the flexible tube (2) comprises at least at the periphery, or is preferably made of a crosslinked polyethylene foam, typically extruded.

4. Signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said attachment (4) comprises a collar system comprising a clamping collar (40) configured to encase the flexible tube (2) at said proximal end.

5. Signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which the flexible tube (2) has: - a diameter greater than 4 cm, in particular between 4 cm and 12 cm, such as 6 cm, - a length greater than or equal to 40 cm, for example 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm or 80 cm.

6. Signaling device according to one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the articulation system (5) comprises two articulations in series with: - a first articulation (51) comprising a first guide part (511) secured to said attachment (4) and a second guide part (512), said first guide part (511) and the second guide part (512), mutually coupled in rotation along said first axis of rotation (RI), - a second articulation (52) comprising a third guide part (521) secured to the second guide part (511) and a fourth guide part (522) secured to the fixing support, the third guide part (521) and the fourth guide part (522) coupled in rotation along the second axis of rotation (R2).

7. Signaling device according to claim 6 wherein the first articulation (51) comprises mechanical indexing means between the first guide part (511) and the second guide part (512) allowing angular position locking according to determined angular orientations between the first part (511) and the second part (512) along the first axis of rotation (RD, and / or the second articulation (52) comprises mechanical indexing means between the third guide part (521) and the fourth guide part (522) allowing angular position locking according to determined angular orientations between the third part (521) and the fourth part (522) along the first axis of rotation (R2).

8. Signaling device according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical indexing means of the first articulation (51) comprise at least one male / female relief (513) of the first guide part (511) configured to cooperate selectively with female / male reliefs (514) distributed on the second guide part (512) around the first axis of rotation (RI), the first guide part (511) and the second guide part (512) held in pressure against each other in the direction of the first axis of rotation (RI) by a spring system (SPG) to ensure engagement between said male and female reliefs (513, 514),and said first guide portion (511) and second guide portion (512) configured to move apart to allow the escape of the engagement and a change of angular position and / or the indexing means of the second articulation (52) comprise at least one male / female relief (523) of the third guide portion (521) configured to cooperate selectively with female / male reliefs (524) distributed angularly on the fourth guide portion (522) around the second axis of rotation (R2), the third guide portion (521) and the fourth guide portion (522) held in pressure against each other by a spring system (SPG) in the direction of the second axis of rotation (R2) to ensure the engagement between said male and female reliefs (523, 524),and said third guide portion (521) and fourth guide portion (522) configured to move apart to allow escape from engagement and a change in angular position.,

9. Signaling device according to one of claims 6 to 8, in which the first articulation (51) is configured to pass the sausage flexible (2) from the first position (PI) for which the tube extends in length transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang, to a second vertical rise (P2) for which the distal end of the flexible tube is directed upwards, and in which the first articulation (51) comprises means for limiting the angular travel between the first guide part (511) and the second guide part (512) comprising in particular an arcuate groove (515) integral with the first part (511) and a lug (516) penetrating the arcuate groove (515) configured to move according to a limited angular travel in the arcuate groove (515), and in which at least in at least one first position (PI) for which the tube extends transversely to the cycle, in lateral overhang,the end-of-travel limiting means ensures blocking of the first articulation (51) configured to ensure that the flexible tube (2) is held in position against gravity.

10. Signaling device according to one of claims 6 to 9, in which the first guide part (511) of the first articulation (51), and the clamping collar (40) of the collar system of the attachment (4) are formed by a single-piece plastic element, typically molded when the signaling device is according to claim 4.

11. Signaling device according to one of claims 6 to 10, in which the second guide part (512) and the third guide part (521) are formed by a single-piece plastic element, typically molded.

12. Signaling device according to one of claims 6 to 11, wherein said spacer (30), said seat (31) for the seat post and the fourth guide part (522) are formed by a single-piece plastic element, typically molded.

13. Assembly comprising a cycle and a signaling and spacing device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, the fixing support (3) of which is fixed to the cycle, on the seat post of the cycle.

14. Assembly according to claim 13 wherein said articulation system (5) and said flexible tube (2) are configured to pass the flexible tube (2) from the first position (PI) in lateral overhang, to said at least second position which is a position (P2') of protection of the frame in which the flexible tube (2) is folded against a frame of the cycle (V), in particular folded along a top tube (TSup) of a bicycle frame, the top tube (TSup) joining the top tube saddle (Tsel) and down tube (Td) of the frame.

15. Use of the signaling and spacing device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14; the fixing support (3) of which is fixed to a cycle, to the seat post, in said at least one first position (PI) for which said flexible tube (2) extends in lateral overhang, as a danger spreader, and in at least one second position (P2') in which the flexible tube (2) is folded against a frame of the cycle, in particular on a top tube (TSup) as a frame protection element in particular when the cycle is parked resting against a support via the flexible tube (2).

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