Rear sprocket assembly and lock device

Abstract

A rear sprocket assembly includes a first sprocket, a second sprocket, and at least one tooth position maintaining member. The at least one tooth position maintaining member is configured to maintain a relative position between a plurality of first sprocket teeth and a plurality of second sprocket teeth in a circumferential direction relative to a central axis of rotation. The at least one tooth position maintaining member includes a fixing portion and at least one guide portion. The fixing portion is configured to be fixed to one of the first sprocket and the second sprocket. The at least one guide portion is configured to engage with the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket, such that the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket can slide relative to the first sprocket and the second sprocket in an axial direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a rear sprocket assembly and a locking device. Prior Technology

[0002] A human-powered vehicle includes a sprocket assembly configured to engage with a chain. The sprocket assembly includes a plurality of sprockets. The plurality of sprockets includes a minimum sprocket. The minimum sprocket preferably has a small number of teeth to provide a wider gear range for a subsequent sprocket assembly. However, this small number of teeth can make it difficult to mount the minimum sprocket to a hub assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a rear sprocket assembly is configured for mounting to a rear wheel hub assembly of a human-powered vehicle. The rear sprocket assembly includes a first sprocket, a second sprocket, and at least one tooth position maintaining member. The first sprocket has a first sprocket outer diameter. The first sprocket includes a first sprocket body, a plurality of first sprocket teeth, and a first sprocket opening. The plurality of first sprocket teeth extend radially outward from the first sprocket body in a radial direction relative to a rotational central axis of the rear sprocket assembly. The first sprocket opening is configured to receive a hub axle of the rear wheel hub assembly in an mounted state where the rear sprocket assembly is mounted to the rear wheel hub assembly. The first sprocket opening has a first diameter smaller than the outermost diameter of a sprocket support body of the rear wheel hub assembly. The second sprocket is axially adjacent to the first sprocket relative to the rotational central axis, and there is no other sprocket between the first sprocket and the second sprocket. The second sprocket has a second sprocket outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first sprocket. The second sprocket includes a second sprocket body, a plurality of second sprocket teeth, and a second sprocket opening. The plurality of second sprocket teeth extend radially outward from the second sprocket body in the radial direction. The second sprocket opening is configured to receive the hub axle of the rear hub assembly in the installed state. The second sprocket opening has a second diameter smaller than the outermost diameter of the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly. The at least one tooth position maintaining member is configured to maintain a relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth and the plurality of second sprocket teeth in a circumferential direction relative to the rotation center axis. The at least one tooth position maintaining member includes a fixing portion and at least one guide portion. The fixing portion is configured to be fixed to one of the first sprocket and the second sprocket. The at least one guide portion extends from the fixed portion in the axial direction and is configured to engage with the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket, such that the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket can slide relative to the first sprocket and the second sprocket in the axial direction.

[0004] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the first configuration, the at least one guide portion allows the other of the first and second sprockets to slide relative to the first and second sprockets in the axial direction, while the at least one tooth position maintaining member maintains the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth and the plurality of second sprocket teeth in the circumferential direction. Therefore, even if the outer diameters of the first and second sprockets are small (especially if the inner diameters of the first and second sprocket openings are smaller than the outer diameter of one of the sprocket support bodies), it is possible to smoothly mount the first and second sprockets to the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly. Therefore, it is possible to provide a sprocket assembly with a wider gear range while allowing the first and second sprockets to be smoothly mounted to the rear hub assembly.

[0005] According to a second embodiment of the invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the fixing portion is fixed to the first sprocket after the first embodiment. The at least one guide portion is configured to engage with the second sprocket such that the second sprocket can slide relative to the first sprocket in the axial direction.

[0006] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the second configuration, the first sprocket and the second sprocket can be more smoothly installed to the rear hub assembly using the at least one tooth position maintaining member.

[0007] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the fixed portion is fixed to the first sprocket in a press-fit manner after the second embodiment.

[0008] Based on the third state sample of the subsequent sprocket assembly, it is possible to improve the manufacturing efficiency of the subsequent sprocket assembly.

[0009] According to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, after the second or third embodiment, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the second sprocket body of the second sprocket has at least one circumferential abutment surface, the at least one circumferential abutment surface being configured to abut against the at least one guide portion in order to maintain the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth and the plurality of second sprocket teeth in the circumferential direction.

[0010] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the fourth state, it is possible to maintain the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth and the plurality of second sprocket teeth in the circumferential direction with a simple structure.

[0011] According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, after any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the fixed portion has a first axial length, a first radial length, and a first circumferential length relative to the rotational central axis. The first circumferential length is greater than the first axial length and the first radial length. The at least one guide portion has a second axial length, a second radial length, and a second circumferential length relative to the rotational central axis. The second circumferential length is greater than the second axial length and the second radial length.

[0012] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the fifth configuration, the first circumferential length of the fixed portion allows the fixed portion to be securely coupled to one of the first sprocket and the second sprocket. The second circumferential length can improve the rigidity of the at least one guide portion. Therefore, it is possible to improve the strength of the at least one tooth position maintaining member and one of the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

[0013] According to a sixth state of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the second axial length is equal to or greater than 2 mm after the fifth state.

[0014] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the first configuration, the second axial length of the at least one guide portion allows for a longer travel of one of the first and second sprockets. Therefore, it is possible to guide the other of the first and second sprockets with the longer travel relative to the first and second sprockets, thereby reliably improving the ease of assembly.

[0015] According to a seventh configuration of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that, according to the fifth or sixth configuration, the first axial length is greater than the first radial length. The second axial length is greater than the second radial length.

[0016] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the seventh state, it is possible to make the radial size of the at least one tooth position maintaining member smaller. This allows the at least one tooth position maintaining member to be applied to the first sprocket and the second sprocket, which have smaller outer diameters.

[0017] According to an eighth configuration of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the at least one guide portion comprises a plurality of guide portions after any of the first to seventh configurations.

[0018] In the case of the sprocket assembly after the eighth state, the plurality of guide portions can stabilize the orientation of the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket relative to the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

[0019] According to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, after any one of the first to eighth embodiments, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the at least one guide portion is radially outward from the fixed portion in the radial direction. The at least one tooth position maintaining member includes at least one connecting portion connecting the at least one guide portion to the fixed portion.

[0020] In the case of the sprocket assembly after the ninth state, it is possible to efficiently utilize a space system arranged radially inward from the at least one guide portion.

[0021] According to one of the tenth versions of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the at least one connecting portion extends in a direction intersecting the rotational central axis after the ninth version.

[0022] In the case of the sprocket assembly after the tenth state, it is possible to make more efficient use of a space system arranged radially inward from the at least one guide portion.

[0023] According to an eleventh configuration of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the at least one guide portion includes a first guide portion, a second guide portion, and a third guide portion after any of the first to tenth configurations. When viewed from the axial direction, the first guide portion, the second guide portion, and the third guide portion form an isosceles triangle.

[0024] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the eleventh state, it is possible to easily position the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket relative to the first sprocket and the second sprocket at a circumferential position on a rotational central axis of the rear sprocket assembly.

[0025] According to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, the sprocket assembly further includes a locking device following any one of the first to eleventh embodiments. The locking device is configured to mount the first sprocket and the second sprocket to the rear hub assembly. The locking device includes a first locking member and a second locking member. The first locking member is configured to detachably engage with the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly in the mounted state. The second locking member is configured to detachably engage with the first locking member to abut against the first sprocket in the axial direction in the mounted state.

[0026] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the twelfth state, the locking device enables the first sprocket and the second sprocket to be reliably installed on the sprocket support body even if the inner diameters of the first sprocket opening and the second sprocket opening are smaller than the outer diameter of the sprocket support body.

[0027] According to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, the sprocket assembly, following the twelfth embodiment, is configured such that the first locking member includes a first axial end having a first external thread, a second axial end having a first internal thread, and a first surface radially outward in the radial direction. The second locking member includes a third axial end having a second external thread, a fourth axial end having at least one radial protrusion, and a second surface radially outward in the radial direction. The first external threads of the first locking member extend radially outward from the first surface in the radial direction and are configured to engage with the internal threads of the sprocket support body disposed to the rear hub assembly in the installed state. The first internal threads of the first locking member are configured to engage with the second external threads of the second locking member. The at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member extends radially outward from the second surface in the radial direction and is configured to abut against the first sprocket in the axial direction in the installed state.

[0028] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the thirteenth state, the first locking member and the second locking member enable the locking device to be applied to various structures of the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

[0029] According to one of the fourteenth embodiments of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the first surface of the first locking member is radially outward from the second surface of the second locking member in the radial direction.

[0030] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the fourteenth state, it is possible to install a smaller sprocket with a smaller opening to a rear wheel hub assembly by means of the locking device.

[0031] According to one of the fifteenth embodiments of the present invention, after the thirteenth or fourteenth embodiment, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the first sprocket and the second sprocket are configured to be positioned in the axial direction between the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member and the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly in the installed state.

[0032] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the fifteenth state, it is possible to securely hold the first sprocket and the second sprocket in the axial direction between the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member and the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly in the installed state.

[0033] According to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention, after any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth embodiments, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the first axial end of the first locking member includes a first tool engagement profile. The fourth axial end of the second locking member includes a second tool engagement profile.

[0034] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the sixteenth state, it is possible to easily assemble the first locking member and the second locking member using the first tool engagement profile and the second tool engagement profile.

[0035] According to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention, after any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth embodiments, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the first sprocket opening of the first sprocket has the first diameter. The second sprocket opening of the second sprocket has the second diameter. One of the radial outer diameters of the at least one radial protrusion is greater than the first diameter. One of the large diameters of the first external threads is greater than the second diameter. The locking device is configured such that, in an assembled state in which the locking device, the first sprocket, and the second sprocket are assembled as a unit, the first sprocket and the second sprocket are positioned in the axial direction between the first external threads of the first locking member and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member.

[0036] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the seventeenth state, in this installation state, it is possible to securely hold the first sprocket and the second sprocket in the axial direction between the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member and the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly, while it is possible to easily assemble the locking device into the sprocket support body.

[0037] According to one eighteenth embodiment of the present invention, after any one of the thirteenth to seventeenth embodiments, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the first locking member has an axial contact surface disposed radially inward from the first surface. The axial contact surface is configured to contact the third axial end of the second locking member in an assembled state where the locking device, the first sprocket, and the second sprocket are assembled as a unit.

[0038] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the eighteenth state, when the first locking member and the second locking member are assembled to the sprocket support body, it is possible to provide better coupling strength between the locking device and the sprocket support body.

[0039] According to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention, after any one of the first to eighteenth embodiments, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the first sprocket has a first axially outward surface and a first axially inward surface. The first axially outward surface and the first axially inward surface face opposite directions in the axial direction. The first axially inward surface is configured to face an axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the installed state. The second sprocket has a second axially outward surface and a second axially inward surface. The second axially outward surface and the second axially inward surface face opposite directions in the axial direction. The second axially inward surface is configured to face the axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the installed state. The first sprocket includes a first axially inward torque transmission profile disposed on the first axially inward surface. The second sprocket includes a second axially outward torque transmission profile disposed on the second axially outward surface. The first axially inward torque transmission profile is configured to engage with the second axially outward torque transmission profile in a torque transmission manner.

[0040] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the nineteenth state, it is possible to reliably transmit the rotational force system between the first sprocket and the second sprocket.

[0041] According to a twentieth embodiment of the present invention, the sprocket assembly is configured such that the second sprocket includes a second axially inward torque transmission profile disposed on the second axially inward surface. The second axially inward torque transmission profile is configured to engage, in a torque transmission manner, with one of a torque transmission profile disposed on a third sprocket and one of a torque transmission profile disposed on the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly. The third sprocket is adjacent to the second sprocket in the axial direction, and there is no other sprocket between the second and third sprockets.

[0042] In the case of the sprocket assembly according to the twentieth state, it is possible to reliably transmit rotational force from the first sprocket to the sprocket support body and one of the other sprockets via the second sprocket.

[0043] According to a twenty-first embodiment of the present invention, a locking device for mounting a plurality of rear sprockets to a rear wheel hub assembly of a human-powered vehicle includes a first locking member and a second locking member. The first locking member includes a first axial end having a first external thread, a second axial end having a first internal thread, and a first surface radially outward in a radial direction. The first surface is adjacent to the first external threads. The second locking member includes a third axial end having a second external thread, a fourth axial end having at least one radial protrusion, and a second surface radially outward in a radial direction. The second surface is adjacent to the second external threads and the at least one radial protrusion. The first external threads of the first locking member extend radially outward from the first surface in the radial direction and are configured to engage with the internal threads of a sprocket support body disposed to the rear wheel hub assembly in the installed state. The first internal threads of the first locking member are configured to engage with the second external threads of the second locking member. The at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member extends radially outward from the second surface in the radial direction. The at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member is configured to abut against one of the smallest sprockets of the plurality of rear sprockets in the axial direction, wherein the plurality of rear sprockets and the locking device are mounted to one of the rear wheel hub assemblies.

[0044] In the case of the locking device according to the twenty-first state, it is possible to reliably install a plurality of sprockets having an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of one of the sprocket support bodies into the sprocket support body system of the rear wheel hub assembly.

[0045] According to a twenty-second embodiment of the present invention, the locking device according to the twenty-first embodiment is configured such that the first surface of the first locking member is arranged radially outward from the second surface of the second locking member in the radial direction.

[0046] In the case of the locking device according to the twenty-second state, it is possible to install a smaller sprocket with a smaller opening to a rear wheel hub assembly by means of the locking device.

[0047] According to a twenty-third embodiment of the present invention, the locking device according to a twenty-first or twenty-second embodiment is configured such that the first locking member and the second locking member are configured in an assembled state in which the first locking member, the second locking member, and at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets are assembled into a single unit. In the axial direction, the at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets are positioned between the first external threads of the first locking member and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member. The at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets include a minimum sprocket and a maximum sprocket. The minimum sprocket includes a minimum sprocket opening having a minimum sprocket diameter. The maximum sprocket includes a maximum sprocket opening having a maximum sprocket diameter. The radial outer diameter of the at least one radial protrusion is larger than the minimum sprocket diameter. The maximum diameter of the first external threads is larger than the maximum sprocket diameter.

[0048] In the case of the locking device according to the twenty-third state, the at least two sprockets can be reliably installed into the sprocket support main system.

[0049] According to a twenty-fourth embodiment of the present invention, the locking device according to any one of the twenty-first to twenty-third embodiments is configured such that the first axial end of the first locking member includes a first tool engagement profile, and the fourth axial end of the second locking member includes a second tool engagement profile.

[0050] In the case of the locking device according to the twenty-fourth state, it is possible to easily assemble the first locking member and the second locking member using the first tool engagement profile and the second tool engagement profile.

[0051] According to a twenty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, the locking device according to any one of the twenty-first to twenty-fourth embodiments is configured such that the first locking member has an axial contact surface disposed radially inward from the first surface. The axial contact surface is configured to contact the third axial end of the second locking member in an assembled state in which the first locking member, the second locking member, and at least two sprockets of the plurality of rear sprockets are assembled into a unit.

[0052] In the case of the locking device according to the twenty-fifth state, when the first locking member and the second locking member are assembled to the sprocket support body, it is possible to provide better coupling strength between the locking device and the sprocket support body. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0053] Since the invention and its many accompanying advantages are better understood by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, a more complete understanding of the invention and its many accompanying advantages will be readily obtained.

[0054] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a human-powered vehicle including a rear sprocket assembly according to an embodiment.

[0055] Figure 2 is an exploded rear view of the rear sprocket assembly and a rear wheel hub assembly of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Figure 1.

[0056] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket assembly and the rear wheel hub assembly as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0057] Figure 4 is a side elevation view of one of the sprockets in the sprocket assembly, as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0058] Figure 5 is an elevation view of the other side of one of the sprockets in the sprocket assembly, as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0059] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sprocket assembly and the rear wheel hub assembly as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0060] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the locking device assembly, one of the sprocket assemblies, following the illustration in Figure 2.

[0061] Figure 8 is another exploded perspective view of the locking device assembly of the sprocket assembly after the illustration in Figure 2.

[0062] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of one part of the locking device assembly of the sprocket assembly after the illustration in Figure 2.

[0063] Figure 10 is another exploded perspective view of the locking device assembly of the sprocket assembly after the illustration in Figure 2.

[0064] Figure 11 is a perspective view of one of the tooth position maintaining components of the locking device assembly illustrated in Figure 7.

[0065] Figure 12 is another perspective view of the tooth position maintaining member of the locking device assembly illustrated in Figure 7.

[0066] Figure 13 is a side elevation view of the locking device assembly illustrated in Figure 7, in which a locking device is omitted.

[0067] Figure 14 is another sectional view of the sprocket assembly and rear hub assembly illustrated in Figure 2.

[0068] Figure 15 is a perspective view of one of the sprockets in the sprocket assembly illustrated in Figure 2.

[0069] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket assembly and rear hub assembly illustrated in Figure 2, used to show an assembly procedure.

[0070] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket assembly and rear wheel hub assembly illustrated in Figure 2, used to show the assembly procedure.

[0071] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket assembly and the rear wheel hub assembly illustrated in Figure 2, used to show the assembly process.

[0072] Figure 19 is a perspective sectional view of a modified sprocket assembly.

[0073] Figure 20 is a perspective sectional view of one of the rear sprocket assemblies according to another modification.

[0074] Figure 21 is a perspective sectional view of one of the rear sprocket assemblies according to another modification. Implementation

[0075] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar element symbols designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the various drawings.

[0076] As shown in Figure 1, a human-powered vehicle 2 includes a vehicle body 4 and a drive system 6. The drive system 6 includes a rear sprocket assembly 10 and a rear wheel hub assembly 12. The rear wheel hub assembly 12 is fixed to the vehicle body 4. The rear sprocket assembly 10 is configured to be mounted to the rear wheel hub assembly 12 of the human-powered vehicle 2. The rear sprocket assembly 10 is rotatably supported relative to the vehicle body 4 by the rear wheel hub assembly 12 about a rotational central axis A1. The human-powered vehicle 2 has an axial central plane CP. The axial central plane CP is defined at a lateral center position of the vehicle body 4 of the human-powered vehicle 2. The axial central plane CP is perpendicular to the rotational central axis A1.

[0077] The drivetrain 6 includes a crank assembly 6A, a front sprocket 6B, and a chain C. The crank assembly 6A is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body 4. The front sprocket 6B is fixed to the crank assembly 6A. The chain C engages with the front sprocket 6B and the rear sprocket assembly 10 to transmit pedaling force from the front sprocket 6B to the rear sprocket assembly 10. In this embodiment, the front sprocket 6B comprises a single sprocket. However, the front sprocket 6B may comprise a plurality of sprockets.

[0078] In this application, the directional terms “forward,” “rear,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “lateral,” “upward,” and “downward,” as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to the direction determined by a user (e.g., a rider) in a standard position in the human-powered vehicle 2 when facing a handlebar or steering lever (e.g., on a saddle or seat). Therefore, the terms used to describe the rear sprocket assembly 10, the rear hub assembly 12, or other components should be interpreted relative to a vertical riding position on a horizontal surface of the human-powered vehicle 2 equipped with the rear sprocket assembly 10, the rear hub assembly 12, or other components.

[0079] In this application, a human-powered vehicle includes various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a hand-held bicycle, and a recumbent bicycle. Furthermore, the human-powered vehicle includes an electric bicycle (E-bike). An electric bicycle includes an electrically assisted bicycle configured to use an electric motor to assist the propulsion of the vehicle. However, the total number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited to two. For example, the human-powered vehicle includes a vehicle with one wheel or three or more wheels. In particular, the human-powered vehicle does not include a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as its power source. Generally, a light road vehicle is assumed to be the human-powered vehicle, which includes a vehicle that does not require a public road driver's license.

[0080] As shown in Figure 2, the rear sprocket assembly 10 includes a plurality of rear sprockets SP. The plurality of rear sprockets SP are configured to engage with a chain C. The plurality of rear sprockets SP includes first sprockets SP1 to twelfth sprockets SP12. That is, the rear sprocket assembly 10 includes first sprocket SP1 and second sprocket SP2. However, the total number of the plurality of sprockets SP is not limited to twelve.

[0081] The rear wheel assembly 12 includes a wheel hub axle 14, a wheel hub body 16, and a sprocket support body 18. The wheel hub axle 14 is configured to be fixed to the vehicle body 4 of the human-powered vehicle 2 (see, for example, Figure 1). The wheel hub body 16 is rotatably mounted on the wheel hub axle 14 about a rotation center axis A1. The sprocket support body 18 is rotatably mounted on the wheel hub axle 14 about a rotation center axis A1.

[0082] The rear sprocket assembly 10 is configured to be mounted to the sprocket support body 18. The sprocket support body 18 includes a plurality of external splines 18A. The rear sprocket assembly 10 is configured to engage with the plurality of external splines 18A of the sprocket support body 18.

[0083] As shown in Figure 3, the rear wheel hub assembly 12 includes a ratchet structure 20. The ratchet structure 20 is configured to allow the sprocket support body 18 to rotate relative to the wheel hub body 16 about the rotational central axis A1 in only one rotational direction. The ratchet structure 20 is also configured to restrict the sprocket support body 18 from rotating relative to the wheel hub body 16 about the rotational central axis A1 in another rotational direction.

[0084] The first sprocket SP1 has a first sprocket outer diameter DM1. The second sprocket SP2 has a second sprocket outer diameter DM2 that is larger than the first sprocket outer diameter DM1. The second sprocket SP2 is adjacent to the first sprocket SP1 in an axial direction D1 relative to the rotation center axis A1, and there is no other sprocket between the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2. In this embodiment, the first sprocket outer diameter DM1 is the smallest among the outer diameters of the first sprocket SP1 to the twelfth sprocket SP12. Therefore, the first sprocket SP1 can also be referred to as a minimum sprocket SP1. The first sprocket SP1 can also be referred to as a top gear sprocket SP1.

[0085] The third sprocket SP3 has an outer diameter DM3 that is larger than that of the second sprocket DM2. The third sprocket SP3 is adjacent to the second sprocket SP2 in the axial direction D1, and there is no other sprocket between the second sprocket SP2 and the third sprocket SP3.

[0086] The rear sprocket assembly 10 includes a sprocket carrier 22. Sixth sprockets SP6 to twelfth sprockets SP12 are mounted on the sprocket carrier 22. In this embodiment, the sixth sprockets SP6 to twelfth sprockets SP12 are secured to the sprocket carrier 22 using fasteners 24 such as rivets. However, the total number of sprockets secured to the sprocket carrier 22 is not limited to the embodiment illustrated in FIG3. The sprocket carrier 22 is configured to contact a positioning surface 18C of the sprocket support body 18. However, the structure of the sprocket carrier 22 is not limited to the structure illustrated in FIG3. The sprocket carrier 22 may be omitted from the rear sprocket assembly 10 if needed and / or desired. In this case, all sprockets directly engage with the sprocket support body 18.

[0087] As shown in Figure 4, the first sprocket SP1 includes a first sprocket body SPB11, a plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12, and a first sprocket opening SPO13. The plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 extend radially outward from the first sprocket body SPB11 relative to the rotation center axis A1 of the rear sprocket assembly 10. The plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 define the outer diameter DM1 of the first sprocket. The first sprocket opening SPO13 of the first sprocket SP1 has a first diameter DM11. In this embodiment, the total number of first sprocket teeth SPT12 is nine. However, the total number of first sprocket teeth SPT12 is not limited to nine.

[0088] As shown in Figure 5, the second sprocket SP2 includes a second sprocket body SPB21, a plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22, and a second sprocket opening SPO23. The plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 extend radially outward from the second sprocket body SPB21 in the radial direction. The plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 define the outer diameter DM2 of the second sprocket. The second sprocket opening SPO23 of the second sprocket SP2 has a second diameter DM21. In this embodiment, the total number of second sprocket teeth SPT22 is ten. However, the total number of second sprocket teeth SPT22 is not limited to ten.

[0089] As shown in Figure 6, the first sprocket opening SPO13 is configured to receive the hub axle 14 of the rear hub assembly 12 in an installed state where the rear sprocket assembly 10 is mounted to one of the rear hub assemblies 12. The first diameter DM11 is smaller than the outermost diameter DM6 of one of the sprocket support bodies 18 of the rear hub assembly 12. A plurality of spline teeth 18A define the outermost diameter DM6. However, depending on need and / or expectation, the first diameter DM11 may be greater than or equal to the outermost diameter DM6 of the sprocket support body 18.

[0090] The second sprocket opening SPO23 is configured to receive the hub axle 14 of the rear hub assembly 12 in the installed state. The second diameter DM21 is smaller than the outermost diameter DM6 of the sprocket support body 18 of the rear hub assembly 12. The second diameter DM21 is larger than the first diameter DM11. However, as needed and / or desired, the second diameter DM21 may be smaller than or equal to the first diameter DM11. As needed and / or desired, the second diameter DM21 may be larger than or equal to the outermost diameter DM6 of the sprocket support body 18.

[0091] A sprocket support body 18 includes an axial end 18B disposed on the outermost axial end of the sprocket support body 18 in the axial direction D1. A hub axle 14 includes an axial end 14B disposed on the outermost axial end of the hub axle 14 in the axial direction D1. A first sprocket SP1 is configured to be disposed between axial ends 14B and 18B in the axial direction D1. A second sprocket SP2 is configured to be disposed between axial ends 14B and 18B in the axial direction D1.

[0092] The rear sprocket assembly 10 further includes a locking device 26. The locking device 26 is configured to mount the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 to the rear hub assembly 12. As shown in FIG3, the locking device 26 is configured to attach to the sprocket support body 18 in the axial direction D1 to secure the sprocket carrier 22 and the first sprockets SP1 to the fifth sprockets SP5 between the locking device 26 and the positioning surface 18C of the sprocket support body 18.

[0093] As shown in Figure 6, the locking device 26 for mounting a plurality of rear sprockets SP to a rear hub assembly 12 for a human-powered vehicle 2 includes a first locking member 28 and a second locking member 30. The first locking member 28 is configured to detachably engage with the sprocket support body 18 of the rear hub assembly 12 in the installed state. The second locking member 30 is configured to detachably engage with the first locking member 28 so as to abut against the first sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1 in the installed state. In this embodiment, the first locking member 28 is a separate component from the second locking member 30. However, depending on need and / or expectation, the first locking member 28 and the second locking member 30 can be integrally configured as a single piece.

[0094] The first locking member 28 is configured to detachably engage with the axial end 18B of the sprocket support body 18 in the installed state. The first locking member 28 is configured to be at least partially disposed in the second sprocket opening SPO23 in the installed state. The second locking member 30 is configured to be at least partially disposed in both the first sprocket opening SPO13 and the second sprocket opening SPO23 in the installed state.

[0095] As used herein, the terms "detachable" or "detachably" encompass a configuration in which one element can be repeatedly detached from and repeatedly attached to another element without material damage.

[0096] As seen in Figures 7 and 8, the rear sprocket assembly 10 includes at least one tooth position maintaining member 32. The at least one tooth position maintaining member 32 is configured to maintain a relative position between a plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 and a plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 in a circumferential direction D2 relative to the rotational central axis A1. In this embodiment, the rear sprocket assembly 10 includes the tooth position maintaining member 32. However, the rear sprocket assembly 10 may include a plurality of tooth position maintaining members 32 as needed and / or desired. At least one tooth position maintaining member 32 may be omitted from the rear sprocket assembly 10 as needed and / or desired.

[0097] At least one tooth position maintaining member 32 includes a fixing portion 34 and at least one guide portion 36. The fixing portion 34 is configured to be fixed to one of the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2. The at least one guide portion 36 is configured to engage with the other of the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2, such that the other of the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 can slide relative to the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 in the axial direction D1.

[0098] In this embodiment, the tooth position maintaining member 32 includes a fixing portion 34 and at least one guiding portion 36. The fixing portion 34 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1. The fixing portion 34 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1 by a press-fit method. The fixing portion 34 has an annular shape. The fixing portion 34 includes an opening 34A. However, the shape of the fixing portion is not limited to an annular shape.

[0099] At least one guide portion 36 is configured to engage with the second sprocket SP2, such that the second sprocket SP2 can slide relative to the first sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1. However, as needed and / or desired, a retaining portion 34 may be configured to be fixed to the first sprocket SP1. As needed and / or desired, the retaining portion 34 may be fixed to the second sprocket SP2. The retaining portion 34 may be fixed to one of the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 in a manner other than a press-fit. As needed and / or desired, at least one guide portion 36 may be configured to engage with the first sprocket SP1, such that the first sprocket SP1 can slide relative to the second sprocket SP2 in the axial direction D1.

[0100] At least one guide portion 36 comprises a plurality of guide portions 36. At least one guide portion 36 includes a first guide portion 36A, a second guide portion 36B, and a third guide portion 36C. At least one guide portion 36 extends from the fixed portion 34 in the axial direction D1. The first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B, and the third guide portion 36C extend from the fixed portion 34 in the axial direction D1. The first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B, and the third guide portion 36C are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D2.

[0101] In this embodiment, at least one guide portion 36 includes a first guide portion 36A, a second guide portion 36B, and a third guide portion 36C, but does not include other guide portions configured to engage with the second sprocket SP2 such that the second sprocket SP2 can slide relative to the first sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1. However, the total number of at least one guide portion 36 is not limited to three.

[0102] The first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B, and the third guide portion 36C are configured to engage with the second sprocket SP2 such that the second sprocket SP2 can slide relative to the first sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1. However, as needed and / or desired, at least one guide portion 36 may be configured to engage with the first sprocket SP1 such that the first sprocket SP1 can slide relative to the second sprocket SP2 in the axial direction D1.

[0103] As seen in Figures 9 and 10, the second sprocket SP2 includes at least one guide groove 37. At least one guide portion 36 is configured to be movably disposed in at least one guide groove 37 in the axial direction D1. In this embodiment, the at least one guide groove 37 includes a first guide groove 37A, a second guide groove 37B, and a third guide groove 37C. The first guide groove 37A, the second guide groove 37B, and the third guide groove 37C are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction D2. The first guide portion 36A is configured to be movably disposed in the first guide groove 37A in the axial direction D1. The second guide portion 36B is configured to be movably disposed in the second guide groove 37B in the axial direction D1. The third guide portion 36C is configured to be movably disposed in the third guide groove 37C in the axial direction D1.

[0104] Depending on need and / or expectation, at least one tooth position maintaining member 32 may comprise a plurality of tooth position maintaining members. In these embodiments, the tooth position maintaining members are separate components from each other. Each of the tooth position maintaining members includes a fixing portion 34 and at least one guiding portion 36. Furthermore, depending on need and / or expectation, at least one tooth position maintaining member 32 and one of the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 may be integrally configured as a single piece.

[0105] As seen in Figures 11 and 12, at least one guide portion 36 is radially outward from the fixed portion 34. The first guide portion 36A is radially outward from the fixed portion 34. The second guide portion 36B is radially outward from the fixed portion 34. The third guide portion 36C is radially outward from the fixed portion 34.

[0106] At least one guide portion 36 extends in the axial direction D1. A first guide portion 36A extends in the axial direction D1. A second guide portion 36B extends in the axial direction D1. A third guide portion 36C extends in the axial direction D1.

[0107] At least one guide portion 36 extends in the circumferential direction D2. A first guide portion 36A extends in the circumferential direction D2. A second guide portion 36B extends in the circumferential direction D2. A third guide portion 36C extends in the circumferential direction D2.

[0108] At least one tooth position maintaining member 32 includes at least one connecting portion 38. The at least one connecting portion 38 connects at least one guide portion 36 to a fixed portion 34. The at least one connecting portion 38 extends in one of the directions intersecting the rotation center axis A1.

[0109] At least one connecting portion 38 includes a plurality of connecting portions 38. The plurality of connecting portions 38 includes a first connecting portion 38A, a second connecting portion 38B, and a third connecting portion 38C. The first connecting portion 38A connects a first guiding portion 36A to a fixed portion 34. The second connecting portion 38B connects a second guiding portion 36B to a fixed portion 34. The third connecting portion 38C connects a third guiding portion 36C to a fixed portion 34.

[0110] The first connecting portion 38A extends from the fixed portion 34 to the first guiding portion 36A in the axial direction D1. The first connecting portion 38A extends from the fixed portion 34 to the first guiding portion 36A in a first axial direction D11. The first axial direction D11 is parallel to the axial direction D1. The first connecting portion 38A extends radially outward from the fixed portion 34 to the first guiding portion 36A. The first guiding portion 36A extends from the first connecting portion 38A in the first axial direction D11.

[0111] The second connecting portion 38B extends from the fixed portion 34 to the second guiding portion 36B in the axial direction D1. The second connecting portion 38B extends from the fixed portion 34 to the second guiding portion 36B in the first axial direction D11. The second connecting portion 38B extends radially outward from the fixed portion 34 to the second guiding portion 36B. The second guiding portion 36B extends from the second connecting portion 38B in the first axial direction D11.

[0112] The third connecting portion 38C extends from the fixed portion 34 to the third guiding portion 36C in the axial direction D1. The third connecting portion 38C extends from the fixed portion 34 to the third guiding portion 36C in the first axial direction D11. The third connecting portion 38C extends radially outward from the fixed portion 34 to the third guiding portion 36C. The third guiding portion 36C extends from the third connecting portion 38C in the first axial direction D11.

[0113] The fixed portion 34 has a first axial length L11, a first radial length L12, and a first circumferential length L13 relative to the rotation center axis A1. The first axial length L11 is defined in the axial direction D1. The first radial length L12 is defined in the radial direction. The first circumferential length L13 is defined in the circumferential direction D2.

[0114] In this embodiment, the first circumferential length L13 is greater than the first axial length L11 and the first radial length L12. The first axial length L11 is greater than the first radial length L12. However, depending on need and / or expectation, the first circumferential length L13 may be less than or equal to at least one of the first axial length L11 and the first radial length L12. Depending on need and / or expectation, the first axial length L11 may be less than or equal to the first radial length L12.

[0115] At least one guide portion 36 has a second axial length L21, a second radial length L22, and a second circumferential length L23 relative to the rotation center axis A1. The second axial length L21 is defined in the axial direction D1. The second radial length L22 is defined in the radial direction. The second circumferential length L23 is defined in the circumferential direction D2.

[0116] In this embodiment, the second circumferential length L23 is greater than the second axial length L21 and the second radial length L22. The second axial length L21 is greater than the second radial length L22. The second axial length L21 is equal to or greater than 2 mm. In this embodiment, the second axial length L21 is 3 mm. However, the second axial length L21 is not limited to the above range and length. Depending on need and / or expectation, the second circumferential length L23 may be less than or equal to at least one of the second axial length L21 and the second radial length L22. Depending on need and / or expectation, the second axial length L21 may be less than or equal to the second radial length L22.

[0117] The tooth position maintaining member 32 includes at least one protrusion 40. The at least one protrusion 40 is configured to position the tooth position maintaining member 32 relative to the first sprocket SP1 when the tooth position maintaining member 32 is attached to the first sprocket SP1. The at least one protrusion 40 is configured to restrict relative rotation between the tooth position maintaining member 32 and the first sprocket SP1 in the circumferential direction D2 when the tooth position maintaining member 32 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1. The at least one protrusion 40 includes a plurality of protrusions 40. The plurality of protrusions 40 includes a first protrusion 40A, a second protrusion 40B, and a third protrusion 40C.

[0118] The first protrusion 40A is disposed in a circumferential position corresponding to one of the circumferential positions of the first guide portion 36A. The first protrusion 40A protrudes from the fixed portion 34 in the axial direction D1. The first protrusion 40A protrudes from the fixed portion 34 in a second axial direction D12, which is opposite to the first axial direction D11. The second axial direction D12 is parallel to the first axial direction D11. As needed and / or desired, the first protrusion 40A may be offset from the first guide portion 36A in the circumferential direction D2. As needed and / or desired, the first protrusion 40A may be omitted from the tooth position maintaining member 32.

[0119] The second protrusion 40B is disposed in a circumferential position corresponding to one of the circumferential positions of the second guide portion 36B. The second protrusion 40B protrudes from the fixed portion 34 in the axial direction D1. The second protrusion 40B protrudes from the fixed portion 34 in the second axial direction D12. As needed and / or desired, the second protrusion 40B may be offset from the second guide portion 36B in the circumferential direction D2. As needed and / or desired, the second protrusion 40B may be omitted from the tooth position maintaining member 32.

[0120] The third protrusion 40C is disposed in a circumferential position corresponding to one of the circumferential positions of the third guide portion 36C. The third protrusion 40C protrudes from the fixed portion 34 in the axial direction D1. The third protrusion 40C protrudes from the fixed portion 34 in the second axial direction D12. As needed and / or desired, the third protrusion 40C may be offset from the third guide portion 36C in the circumferential direction D2. As needed and / or desired, the third protrusion 40C may be omitted from the tooth position maintaining member 32.

[0121] As seen in Figures 9 and 10, the first sprocket SP1 includes at least one positioning recess 41. The at least one positioning recess 41 includes a plurality of positioning recesses 41. The plurality of positioning recesses 41 includes a first positioning recess 41A, a second positioning recess 41B, and a third positioning recess 41C. A first protrusion 40A is configured to be disposed in the first positioning recess 41A when the tooth position maintaining member 32 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1. A second protrusion 40B is configured to be disposed in the second positioning recess 41B when the tooth position maintaining member 32 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1. A third protrusion 40C is configured to be disposed in the third positioning recess 41C when the tooth position maintaining member 32 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1.

[0122] As shown in Figure 13, when viewed from the axial direction D1, the first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B, and the third guide portion 36C form an isosceles triangle. Depending on the needs and / or expectations, the first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B, and the third guide portion 36C can be arranged in a constant or differently spaced circular configuration.

[0123] When viewed along the rotational axis A1, a first circumferential central plane 36A1 is defined to equally divide the first circumferential length L13 of the first guide portion 36A. When viewed along the rotational axis A1, the first circumferential central plane 36A1 extends radially outward from the rotational axis A1 to equally divide the first circumferential length L13.

[0124] When viewed along the rotational axis A1, a second circumferential central plane 36B1 is defined to equally divide the second circumferential length L23 of the second guide portion 36B. When viewed along the rotational axis A1, the second circumferential central plane 36B1 extends radially outward from the rotational axis A1 to equally divide the second circumferential length L23.

[0125] When viewed along the rotational axis A1, a third circumferential central plane 36C1 is defined to equally divide the third circumferential length L32 of the third guide portion 36C. When viewed along the rotational axis A1, the third circumferential central plane 36C1 extends radially outward from the rotational axis A1 to equally divide the third circumferential length L32.

[0126] A first circumferential angle AG1 is defined in the circumferential direction D2 between the first circumferential center plane 36A1 and the second circumferential center plane 36B1. A second circumferential angle AG2 is defined in the circumferential direction D2 between the second circumferential center plane 36B1 and the third circumferential center plane 36C1. A third circumferential angle AG3 is defined in the circumferential direction D2 between the first circumferential center plane 36A1 and the third circumferential center plane 36C1.

[0127] The first circumferential angle AG1 is equal to the third circumferential angle AG3. The second circumferential angle AG2 is different from both the first circumferential angle AG1 and the third circumferential angle AG3. The second circumferential angle AG2 is less than both the first circumferential angle AG1 and the third circumferential angle AG3. However, as needed and / or desired, the second circumferential angle AG2 may be greater than or equal to at least one of the first circumferential angle AG1 and the third circumferential angle AG3. As needed and / or desired, the first circumferential angle AG1 may be different from the third circumferential angle AG3.

[0128] The second circumferential angle AG2 is different from the first circumferential angle AG1 and the third circumferential angle AG3. Therefore, in the state where the tooth position maintaining member 32 is fixed to one of the first sprockets SP1 and in the state where the second sprocket SP2 is engaged with the first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B and the third guide portion 36C, the first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B and the third guide portion 36C define a single circumferential position of the second sprocket SP2 relative to one of the first sprockets SP1.

[0129] The second sprocket body SPB21 of the second sprocket SP2 has at least one circumferential abutment surface 42. The at least one circumferential abutment surface 42 is configured to abut against at least one guide portion 36 in order to maintain the relative position between a plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 and a plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 in the circumferential direction D2.

[0130] The second sprocket body SPB21 has a plurality of first circumferential abutting surfaces 42A, configured to abut against the first guide portion 36A to maintain the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 and the plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 in the circumferential direction D2. In the installed state, the first guide portion 36A is disposed between the first circumferential abutting surfaces 42A in the circumferential direction D2. The first circumferential abutting surfaces 42A define first guide grooves 37A.

[0131] The second sprocket body SPB21 has a plurality of second circumferential abutting surfaces 42B, configured to abut against the second guide portion 36B to maintain the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 and the plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 in the circumferential direction D2. In the installed state, the second guide portion 36B is disposed between the second circumferential abutting surfaces 42B in the circumferential direction D2. The second circumferential abutting surfaces 42B define second guide grooves 37B.

[0132] The second sprocket body SPB21 has a plurality of third circumferential abutting surfaces 42C, which are configured to abut against a third guide portion 36C to maintain the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth SPT12 and the plurality of second sprocket teeth SPT22 in the circumferential direction D2. In the installed state, the third guide portion 36C is disposed between the third circumferential abutting surfaces 42C in the circumferential direction D2. The third circumferential abutting surfaces 42C define third guide grooves 37C.

[0133] As shown in Figure 14, the first locking member 28 includes a first axial end 28A, a second axial end 28B, and a first surface 28C. The first axial end 28A has a first external thread 28D. The second axial end 28B has a first internal thread 28E. The first surface 28C faces radially outward in the radial direction. The first surface 28C is adjacent to the first external thread 28D. The first surface 28C extends from the first external thread 28D in the axial direction D1. The first internal thread 28E is provided radially inward from the first surface 28C.

[0134] The first external thread 28D of the first locking member 28 extends radially outward from the first surface 28C. The first external thread 28D of the first locking member 28 is configured to engage with the internal thread 18D of the sprocket support body 18 disposed to the rear wheel hub assembly 12 in the installed state. The internal thread 18D is disposed to the axial end 18B of the sprocket support body 18.

[0135] The second locking member 30 includes a third axial end 30A, a fourth axial end 30B, and a second surface 30C. The third axial end 30A has a second external thread 30D. The fourth axial end 30B has at least one radial protrusion 30F. The second surface 30C faces radially outward in the radial direction. The second surface 30C is adjacent to the second external thread 30D and at least one radial protrusion 30F. The first surface 28C of the first locking member 28 is radially outward from the second surface 30C of the second locking member 30.

[0136] The first internal thread 28E of the first locking member 28 is configured to engage with the second external thread 30D of the second locking member 30. At least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30 extends radially outward from the second surface 30C in the radial direction.

[0137] At least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30 is configured to abut against the smallest sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1 of the plurality of rear sprockets SP in the mounted state in which the plurality of rear sprockets SP and the locking device 26 are mounted to the rear wheel hub assembly 12. That is, at least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30 is configured to abut against the first sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1 in the mounted state. At least one radial protrusion 30F has a flange shape. However, as needed and / or desired, at least one radial protrusion 30F may comprise a plurality of radial protrusions. As needed and / or desired, at least one radial protrusion 30F may have a shape other than a flange shape.

[0138] As shown in Figure 8, the first axial end 28A of the first locking member 28 includes a first tool engagement profile 28G. In this embodiment, the first tool engagement profile 28G includes a plurality of first tool engagement recesses 28G1. The first tool engagement recesses 28G1 are arranged circumferentially at constant intervals. However, the structure of the first tool engagement profile 28G is not limited to the first tool engagement recesses 28G1.

[0139] As shown in Figure 7, the fourth axial end 30B of the second locking member 30 includes a second tool engagement profile 30G. In this embodiment, at least one radial protrusion 30F includes the second tool engagement profile 30G. The second tool engagement profile 30G includes a plurality of second tool engagement recesses 30G1. The second tool engagement recesses 30G1 are arranged circumferentially at constant intervals. However, the structure of the second tool engagement profile 30G is not limited to the second tool engagement recesses 30G1.

[0140] The first tool engagement profile 28G is configured to engage with a first tool. The second tool engagement profile 30G is configured to engage with a second tool. In one state in which the first tool engages with the first tool engagement profile 28G and the second tool engages with the second tool engagement profile 30G, the first locking member 28 and the second locking member 30 are rotated relative to each other using the first tool and the second tool. Therefore, the second external thread 30D of the second locking member 30 is screwed into the first internal thread 28E of the first locking member 28.

[0141] As shown in Figure 14, the locking device 26 is configured such that the locking device 26, the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 are assembled as a unit. In the assembled state, the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 are placed in the axial direction D1 between the first external thread 28D of the first locking member 28 and at least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30.

[0142] The first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 are configured to be positioned in the axial direction D1 between at least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30 and the sprocket support body 18 of the rear hub assembly 12 in the installed state. The first locking member 28 and the second locking member 30 are configured to be assembled in the assembled state, in which at least two sprockets of the plurality of rear sprockets SP are positioned in the axial direction D1 between the first external thread 28D of the first locking member 28 and at least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30.

[0143] At least two of the plurality of rear sprockets SP include a minimum sprocket SP1 and a maximum sprocket. In this embodiment, the first locking member 28 and the second locking member 30 are configured in an assembled state in which the first locking member 28, the second locking member 30, the first sprocket SP1, and the second sprocket SP2 are assembled as a unit, with the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 positioned in the axial direction D1 between the first external thread 28D of the first locking member 28 and at least one radial protrusion 30F of the second locking member 30. Therefore, the at least two sprockets include the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2. The first sprocket SP1 may also be referred to as the minimum sprocket SP1 among the at least two sprockets. The second sprocket SP2 may also be referred to as the maximum sprocket SP2 among the at least two sprockets. However, as needed and / or desired, the at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets SP may include other sprockets among the plurality of rear sprockets SP.

[0144] The first sprocket opening SPO13 can also be referred to as a minimum sprocket opening SPO13. The first diameter DM11 of the first sprocket opening SPO13 can also be referred to as a minimum sprocket diameter DM11. Therefore, the minimum sprocket SP1 includes the minimum sprocket opening SPO13 with the minimum sprocket diameter DM11.

[0145] The second sprocket opening SPO23 can also be referred to as a maximum sprocket opening SPO23. The second diameter DM21 of the second sprocket opening SPO23 can also be referred to as a maximum sprocket diameter DM21. The maximum sprocket SP2 includes the maximum sprocket opening SPO23 with the maximum sprocket diameter DM21.

[0146] At least one radial protrusion 30F has a radial outer diameter DM4 that is greater than the first diameter DM11 of the first sprocket opening SPO13. The larger diameter DM5 of the first external thread 28D is greater than the second diameter DM21 of the second sprocket opening SPO23. That is, at least one radial protrusion 30F has a radial outer diameter DM4 that is greater than the smallest sprocket diameter DM11. The larger diameter DM5 of the first external thread 28D is greater than the largest sprocket diameter DM21.

[0147] The first locking member 28 has an axial contact surface 28F disposed radially inward from the first surface 28C. The axial contact surface 28F is configured to contact the third axial end 30A of the second locking member 30 in an assembled state where the locking device 26, the first sprocket SP1, and the second sprocket SP2 are assembled as a single unit. The axial contact surface 28F is configured to contact the third axial end 30A of the second locking member 30 in an assembled state where the first locking member 28, the second locking member 30, and at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets SP are assembled as a single unit. The axial contact surface 28F is configured to contact the third axial end 30A of the second locking member 30 in an assembled state where the first locking member 28, the second locking member 30, the first sprocket SP1, and the second sprocket SP2 are assembled as a single unit.

[0148] The first sprocket SP1 has a first axially outward surface SP14 and a first axially inward surface SP15. The first axially outward surface SP14 and the first axially inward surface SP15 face opposite directions in the axial direction D1. The first axially inward surface SP15 is configured to face the axial center plane CP of one of the human-powered vehicles 2 in the installed state.

[0149] The second sprocket SP2 has a second axially outward surface SP24 and a second axially inward surface SP25. The second axially outward surface SP24 and the second axially inward surface SP25 face opposite directions in the axial direction D1. The second axially inward surface SP25 is configured to face the axial center plane CP of the human-powered vehicle 2 in the installed state.

[0150] As seen in Figures 9 and 10, the first sprocket SP1 includes a first axially inward torque transmission profile SP16 disposed on a first axially inward surface SP15. The second sprocket SP2 includes a second axially outward torque transmission profile SP26 disposed on a second axially outward surface SP24. The first axially inward torque transmission profile SP16 is configured to engage with the second axially outward torque transmission profile SP26 in a torque transmission manner.

[0151] As shown in Figure 9, the first axially inward torque transmission profile SP16 includes a plurality of first teeth SP16A. The plurality of first teeth SP16A includes a plurality of first teeth SP16A1 and a first tooth SP16A2. The first tooth SP16A2 has a shape and / or size different from one of the first teeth SP16A1. In this embodiment, the first tooth SP16A2 has a circumferential width larger than that of one of the first teeth SP16A1.

[0152] As shown in Figure 10, the second axially outward torque transmission profile SP26 includes a plurality of second recesses SP26A. The plurality of second recesses SP26A includes a plurality of second recesses SP26A1 and a second recess SP26A2. The second recess SP26A2 has a shape and / or size different from one of the second recesses SP26A1. In this embodiment, the second recess SP26A2 has a circumferential width larger than that of one of the second recesses SP26A1.

[0153] As seen in Figures 9 and 10, the first tooth SP16A of the first sprocket SP1 is configured to engage with the second recess SP26A of the second sprocket SP2 in a torque transmission manner. In this embodiment, the first tooth SP16A1 of the first sprocket SP1 is configured to engage with the second recess SP26A1 of the second sprocket SP2. The first tooth SP16A2 of the first sprocket SP1 is configured to engage with the second recess SP26A2 of the second sprocket SP2. The first tooth SP16A2 is configured not to engage with the second recess SP26A1 because the circumferential width of the first tooth SP16A2 is greater than the circumferential width of the second recess SP26A1. Therefore, the first tooth SP16A2 and the second recess SP26A2 define a single circumferential position of the first sprocket SP1 relative to the second sprocket SP2.

[0154] As seen in Figures 9 and 15, the second sprocket SP2 includes a second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 disposed on a second axially inward surface SP25. The second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 is configured to engage in a torque transmission manner with one of a torque transmission profile disposed on a third sprocket SP3 and a torque transmission profile disposed on a sprocket support body 18 disposed on a rear wheel hub assembly 12.

[0155] In this embodiment, as seen in FIG15, the second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 is configured to engage with one of the torque transmission profiles SP37 disposed on the third sprocket SP3 in a torque transmission manner. However, as needed and / or desired, the second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 may be configured to engage with one of the torque transmission profiles disposed on the sprocket support body 18 in a torque transmission manner.

[0156] As shown in Figure 9, the second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 includes a plurality of second additional teeth SP27A. The plurality of second additional teeth SP27A includes a plurality of second additional teeth SP27A1 and a second additional tooth SP27A2. The second additional tooth SP27A2 has a shape and / or size different from one of the other second additional teeth SP27A1. In this embodiment, the second additional tooth SP27A2 has a circumferential width larger than that of one of the second additional teeth SP27A1.

[0157] As shown in Figure 15, the torque transmission profile SP37 includes a plurality of third recesses SP37A. The plurality of third recesses SP37A includes a plurality of third recesses SP37A1 and a third recess SP37A2. The third recess SP37A2 has a shape and / or size different from one of the third recesses SP37A1. In this embodiment, the third recess SP37A2 has a circumferential width larger than that of one of the third recesses SP37A1.

[0158] As seen in Figures 9 and 15, the second tooth SP27A of the second sprocket SP2 is configured to engage with the third recess SP37A of the third sprocket SP3. In this embodiment, the second tooth SP27A1 of the second sprocket SP2 is configured to engage with the third recess SP37A1 of the third sprocket SP3. The second additional tooth SP27A2 of the second sprocket SP2 is configured to engage with the third recess SP37A2 of the third sprocket SP3. The second additional tooth SP27A2 is configured not to engage with the third recess SP37A1 because the circumferential width of the second additional tooth SP27A2 is greater than the circumferential width of the third recess SP37A1. Therefore, the second additional tooth SP27A2 and the third recess SP37A2 define the rotational position of the second sprocket SP2 relative to the third sprocket SP3.

[0159] As seen in Figures 6 and 15, the third sprocket SP3 includes an additional torque transmission profile SP38. In this embodiment, the additional torque transmission profile SP38 is configured to engage with a plurality of external splines 18A of the sprocket support body 18 in a torque transmission manner. The additional torque transmission profile SP38 and the plurality of external splines 18A define a single circumferential position of the third sprocket SP3 relative to one of the sprocket support bodies 18. Rotational force is transmitted from the first sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 18 via the second sprocket SP2 and the third sprocket SP3. Rotational force is transmitted from the second sprocket SP2 to the sprocket support body 18 via the third sprocket SP3.

[0160] The following describes the assembly procedure for assembling the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2, the locking device 26, and the tooth position maintaining member 32 into the rear wheel hub assembly 12, with reference to Figures 7 to 10 and 16 to 18.

[0161] As shown in Figure 16, before assembling the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 to the rear hub assembly 12, the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2, the locking device 26, and the tooth position maintaining member 32 are assembled into a locking device assembly 50. The locking device assembly 50 includes the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2, the locking device 26, and the tooth position maintaining member 32.

[0162] As seen in Figures 9 and 10, for example, the fixing portion 34 of the tooth position maintaining member 32 is inserted into the first sprocket opening SPO13 of the first sprocket SP1. At this time, the first protrusion 40A, the second protrusion 40B, and the third protrusion 40C are inserted into the first positioning recess 41A, the second positioning recess 41B, and the third positioning recess 41C. Therefore, the tooth position maintaining member 32 is fixed to the first sprocket SP1 in a single circumferential position.

[0163] The first guide portion 36A, the second guide portion 36B, and the third guide portion 36C are inserted into the first guide groove 37A, the second guide groove 37B, and the third guide groove 37C of the second sprocket SP2. Therefore, the second sprocket SP2 is assembled to the first sprocket SP1 via the tooth position maintaining member 32 in a single circumferential position relative to the first sprocket SP1.

[0164] As shown in Figure 16, the third axial end 30A of the second locking member 30 is inserted into the opening SPO13 of the first sprocket, the opening 34A of the tooth position maintaining member 32, and the opening SPO23 of the second sprocket. The second external thread 30D of the second locking member 30 is screwed into the first internal thread 28E of the first locking member 28. Using the first and second tools, the first locking member 28 and the second locking member 30 are rotated relative to each other until the third axial end 30A contacts the axial contact surface 28F of the first locking member 28. Therefore, the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2, the locking device 26, and the tooth position maintaining member 32 are assembled into the locking device assembly 50.

[0165] As shown in Figure 17, when the locking device assembly 50 is assembled to the sprocket support body 18, the first axial end 28A of the first locking member 28 contacts the axial end 18B of the sprocket support body 18.

[0166] As shown in Figure 18, the second sprocket SP2 moves toward the third sprocket SP3 so that the second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 engages with the torque transmission profile SP37 of the third sprocket SP3. The second sprocket SP2 rotates about the rotational center axis A1 relative to the sprocket support body 18 to adjust the rotational position of the second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 relative to the torque transmission profile SP37 of the third sprocket SP3, specifically, so that the second additional tooth SP27A2 of the second sprocket SP2 engages with the third recess SP37A2 of the third sprocket SP3. Since the tooth position maintaining member 32 is configured to couple the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 so that the second sprocket SP2 can slide relative to the first sprocket SP1 in the axial direction D1, the first sprocket SP1 and the tooth position maintaining member 32 respond to the rotation of the second sprocket SP2, together with the second sprocket SP2 rotating about the rotational center axis A1 relative to the sprocket support body 18. Therefore, in the state in which the second axial inward torque transmission profile SP27 and the torque transmission profile SP37 of the third sprocket SP3 are engaged, the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2 and the third sprocket SP3 are positioned relative to each other in a predetermined rotational position.

[0167] As seen in Figures 14 and 17, the locking device 26 is rotated relative to the sprocket support body 18 about the rotation center axis A1 using the second tool, causing the first external thread 28D of the first locking member 28 to be screwed into the internal thread 18D of the sprocket support body 18. Since the second axially inward torque transmission profile SP27 of the second sprocket SP2 engages with the torque transmission profile SP37 of the third sprocket SP3, the locking device 26 maintains the rotational position between the second sprocket SP2 and the third sprocket SP3 relative to the sprocket support body 18 while rotating. Since the guide portion 36 of the tooth position maintaining member 32 engages with the guide groove 37 of the second sprocket SP2, the locking device 26 maintains the rotational position between the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 relative to the sprocket support body 18 while rotating. Therefore, when the locking device 26 is tightened using the second tool, the first axially inward torque transmission profile SP16 and the second axially outward torque transmission profile SP26 smoothly engage. When the locking device 26 is tightened using this tool, the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 are held in the axial direction D1 between the radial protrusion 30F and the third sprocket SP3. Therefore, the first sprocket SP1 and the second sprocket SP2 are installed onto the sprocket support body 18 of the rear wheel hub assembly 12 using the locking device 26 and the tooth position maintaining member 32.

[0168] The structure of the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2, and the tooth position maintaining member 32 can be applied to other rear sprocket assemblies. For example, the structure of the first sprocket SP1, the second sprocket SP2, and the tooth position maintaining member 32 can be applied to the rear sprocket assemblies 210, 310, and 410 illustrated in Figures 19 to 21. The rear sprocket assemblies 210, 310, and 410 illustrated in Figures 19 to 21 have a structure substantially the same as that of the rear sprocket assembly 10. The sprocket carrier 22 in this embodiment is omitted from the rear sprocket assemblies 210, 310, and 410.

[0169] As shown in Figure 19, the rear sprocket assembly 210 includes sprockets SP1 through SP211. Sprockets SP7 through SP209 are fixed to each other using fasteners 225. The rear sprocket assembly 210 includes spacers SS21 and SS22. Spacer SS21 is disposed between sprocket SP207 and sprocket SP208. Spacer SS22 is disposed between sprocket SP208 and sprocket SP209. Sprockets SP207 through SP209 and spacers SS21 and SS22 are fixed to each other using fasteners 225.

[0170] Spacer SS21 includes a ring portion SS21A and a plurality of arms SS21B extending radially outward from the ring portion SS21A. The arms SS21B are arranged circumferentially. Spacer SS22 includes a ring portion SS22A and a plurality of arms SS22B extending radially outward from the ring portion SS22A. The arms SS22B are arranged circumferentially. The seventh sprocket SP207 to the ninth sprocket SP209 are fixed to the arms SS21B and SS22B using fasteners 225.

[0171] The eighth sprocket SP208 to the tenth sprocket SP210 are secured to each other using fasteners 227. A spacer SS22 is disposed between the eighth sprocket SP208 and the ninth sprocket SP209. The eighth sprocket SP208 to the tenth sprocket SP210 and the arm SS22B are secured to each other using fasteners 227. Each of the fasteners 227 includes a spacer 227A. The spacer 227A of the fastener 227 is disposed between the ninth sprocket SP209 and the tenth sprocket SP210.

[0172] The ninth sprocket SP209 and the tenth sprocket SP210 are fastened to each other by fasteners 229. Each of the fasteners 229 includes a spacer 229A. The spacer 229A of the fastener 229 is disposed between the ninth sprocket SP209 and the tenth sprocket SP210.

[0173] The tenth sprocket SP210 and the eleventh sprocket SP211 are secured to each other using fasteners 231. Each of the fasteners 231 includes a spacer 231A. The spacer 231A of the fastener 231 is disposed between the tenth sprocket SP210 and the eleventh sprocket SP211. Therefore, the seventh sprocket SP207 to the eleventh sprocket SP211 are integrally coupled using fasteners 225, 227, 229 and 231.

[0174] As shown in Figure 20, the rear sprocket assembly 310 has a structure substantially the same as that of the rear sprocket assembly 210. The sprockets SP of the rear sprocket assembly 310 include first sprockets SP201 to eighth sprockets SP208 and ninth sprockets SP309 to eleventh sprockets SP311. Sprockets SP309 to SP311 have a structure substantially the same as that of sprockets SP209 to SP211.

[0175] The seventh sprocket SP207, the eighth sprocket SP208, and the ninth sprocket SP309 are fixed together by fasteners 225. Spacer SS21 is disposed between the seventh sprocket SP207 and the eighth sprocket SP208. Spacer SS22 is disposed between the eighth sprocket SP208 and the ninth sprocket SP309. The seventh sprocket SP207, the eighth sprocket SP208, the ninth sprocket SP309, and spacers SS21 and SS22 are fixed together by fasteners 225. The seventh sprocket SP207, the eighth sprocket SP208, the ninth sprocket SP309, and arms SS21B and SS22B are fixed together by fasteners 225.

[0176] The eighth sprocket SP208 and the ninth sprocket SP309 are fixed together by fastener 327. A spacer SS22 is disposed between the eighth sprocket SP208 and the ninth sprocket SP309. The eighth sprocket SP208, the ninth sprocket SP309, and the arm SS22B are fixed together by fastener 327.

[0177] The ninth sprocket SP309 and the tenth sprocket SP310 are fixed to each other by fastener 229. Spacer 229A is provided between the ninth sprocket SP309 and the tenth sprocket SP310.

[0178] The tenth sprocket SP310 and the eleventh sprocket SP311 are fixed together by fastener 231. A spacer 231A is provided between the tenth sprocket SP310 and the eleventh sprocket SP311. Therefore, the seventh sprocket SP207 to the eleventh sprocket SP311 are integrally coupled by fasteners 225, 327, 229, and 231.

[0179] As shown in Figure 21, the fastener 231 of sprocket SP311 and rear sprocket assembly 310 is omitted from the rear sprocket assembly 410. The seventh sprocket SP207 to the tenth sprocket SP310 are integrally coupled using fasteners 225, 327 and 229.

[0180] In this application, as used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "have," "include," and their derivatives.

[0181] The terms “member,” “section,” “portion,” “part,” “element,” “body,” and “structure,” when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single component or a plural component.

[0182] Ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" used in this application are merely identifiers and have no other meaning (e.g., a specific order and the like). Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" does not imply the existence of a "second element," and the term "second element" does not imply the existence of a "first element."

[0183] As used in this article, the term "pair of" can encompass configurations in which the elements have the same shape or structure as each other, as well as configurations in which the elements have different shapes or structures.

[0184] Therefore, the terms "a(a)" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably in this document.

[0185] As used in this invention, the phrase "at least one of..." means "one or more of...". For example, as used in this invention, if the number of choices is 2, the phrase "at least one of..." means "only one single choice" or "both of the two choices". For another example, as used in this invention, if the number of choices is equal to or greater than 3, the phrase "at least one of..." means "only one single choice" or "any combination of equal to or greater than two choices". For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" encompasses (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" encompasses (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C. In other words, in this invention, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B".

[0186] Finally, as used herein, degree terms such as “substantially,” “about,” and “approximately” indicate a reasonable deviation of one of the modified terms such that the final result is not significantly altered. All numerical values ​​set forth in this application may be interpreted as including terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “approximately.”

[0187] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention may be practiced in ways other than those specifically set forth herein, within the scope of the appended claims.

[0188] 2: Human-powered transportation 4: Main body of the vehicle 6: Drive System 6A: Crank assembly 6B: Front sprocket 10: Rear sprocket assembly 12: Rear wheel hub assembly 14: Wheel hub and axle 14B: Axial end 16: Wheel hub body 18: Sprocket support body 18A: External spline / Spline 18B: Axial end 18C: Positioning Surface 18D: Internal thread 20: Ratchet Structure 22: Sprocket Carrier 24: Fasteners 26: Locking device 28: First locking component 28A: First axial end 28B: Second axial end 28C: First surface 28D: First external thread 28E: First internal thread 28F: Axial contact surface 28G: First tool joins the contour 28G1: First tool engagement recess 30: Second locking component 30A: Third Axial End 30B: Fourth Axial End 30C: Second Surface 30D: Second external thread 30F: Radial protrusion 30G: Second tool joining contour 30G1: Second tool engagement recess 32: Tooth position maintaining component 34: Fixed part 34A: Opening 36: Guiding Section 36A: First Guiding Section 36A1: The central plane of the first circle 36B: Second Guiding Section 36B1: The central plane of the second circle 36C: Third Guiding Section 36C1: The central plane of the third circle 37: Guide groove 37A: First guide groove 37B: Second guide groove 37C: Third guide groove 38: Connection part 38A: First connecting part 38B: Second connecting part 38C: Third connecting part 40: Protrusion 40A: First protrusion 40B: Second protrusion 40C: Third protrusion 41: Positioning recess 41A: First positioning recess 41B: Second positioning recess 41C: Third positioning recess 42: Circumferentially adjacent surfaces 42A: First circumferential adjacent surface 42B: Second circumferential adjacent surface 42C: Third circumferential adjacent surface 50: Locking device assembly 210: Rear sprocket assembly 225: Fasteners 227: Fasteners 227A: Spacer 229: Fasteners 229A: Spacer 231: Fasteners 231A: Spacer 310: Rear sprocket assembly 327: Fasteners 410: Rear sprocket assembly A1: Rotation center axis AG1: First circumferential angle AG2: Second circumferential angle AG3: Third circumferential angle C: Chain CP: Axial center plane D1: Axial direction D2: Circumferential direction D11: First axial direction D12: Second axial direction DM1: Outer diameter of the first sprocket DM2: Outer diameter of the second sprocket DM3: Outer diameter of the third sprocket DM4: Radial outer diameter DM5: Large diameter DM6: Outer diameter DM11: First diameter / Minimum sprocket diameter DM21: Second diameter / Maximum sprocket diameter L11: First axial length L12: First radial length L13: Length of the first circumference L21: Second axial length L22: Second radial length L23: Length of the second circumference L32: Length of the third circumference SP: Rear sprocket / sprocket SP1: First sprocket / Minimum sprocket / Top gear sprocket SP2: Second sprocket / Maximum sprocket SP3: Third Sprocket SP5: Fifth Sprocket SP6: Sixth Sprocket SPB11: First Sprocket Body SP12: Twelfth Sprocket SPT12: First sprocket tooth SPO13: First sprocket opening / Minimum sprocket opening SP14: First axial outward surface SP15: First axial inward surface SP16: First Axial Inward Torque Transmission Profile SP16A: First tooth SP16A1: First tooth SP16A2: First tooth SPB21: Second Sprocket Body SPT22: Second sprocket tooth SPO23: Second sprocket opening / Maximum sprocket opening SP24: Second Axial Outer Surface SP25: Second axial inward surface SP26: Second Axial Outward Torque Transmission Profile SP26A: Second recess SP26A1: Second recess SP26A2: Second recess SP27: Second Axial Inward Torque Transmission Profile SP27A: Second Extra Tooth / Second Tooth SP27A1: Second Extra Tooth / Second Tooth SP27A2: Second Extra Tooth SP37: Torque Transmission Profile SP37A: The third recess SP37A1: The third recess SP37A2: The third recess SP38: Additional Torque Transfer Profile SP201: First Sprocket SP207: Seventh Sprocket SP208: Eighth Sprocket SP209: Ninth Sprocket / Sprocket SP210: Tenth Sprocket SP211: Eleventh Sprocket / Sprocket SP309: Ninth Sprocket / Sprocket SP310: Tenth Sprocket SP311: Eleventh Sprocket / Sprocket SS21: Spacer SS21A: Ring section SS21B: Arm SS22: Spacer SS22A: Ring section SS22B: Arm

Claims

1. A rear sprocket assembly configured for mounting to a rear wheel hub assembly of a human-powered vehicle, the rear sprocket assembly comprising: A first sprocket having a first sprocket outer diameter and comprising: a first sprocket body; a plurality of first sprocket teeth extending radially outward from the first sprocket body in a radial direction relative to a rotational central axis of a rear sprocket assembly; and a first sprocket opening configured to receive a hub axle of a rear hub assembly in an mounted state wherein the rear sprocket assembly is mounted to a rear hub assembly, the first sprocket opening having a first diameter smaller than the outermost diameter of a sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly; and a second sprocket adjacent to the first sprocket in an axial direction relative to the rotational central axis, with no other sprocket between the first sprocket and the second sprocket, the second sprocket having a second sprocket outer diameter larger than the first sprocket outer diameter and comprising: a second sprocket body; A plurality of second sprocket teeth extending radially outward from the second sprocket body in the radial direction; and a second sprocket opening configured to receive the hub axle of the rear hub assembly in the installed state, the second sprocket opening having a second diameter smaller than the outermost diameter of the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly; and at least one tooth position maintaining member configured to maintain a relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth and the plurality of second sprocket teeth in a circumferential direction relative to the rotation center axis, the at least one tooth position maintaining member comprising: a fixing portion configured to be fixed to one of the first sprocket and the second sprocket; and at least one guide portion extending from the fixing portion in the axial direction and configured to engage with the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket, such that the other of the first sprocket and the second sprocket can slide relative to the first sprocket and the second sprocket in the axial direction.

2. The sprocket assembly following claim 1, wherein the fixed portion is fixed to the first sprocket, and the at least one guide portion is configured to engage with the second sprocket such that the second sprocket can slide relative to the first sprocket in the axial direction.

3. As in request item 2, the sprocket assembly wherein the fixed part is fixed to the first sprocket by a press-fit method.

4. The sprocket assembly following claim 2, wherein the second sprocket body of the second sprocket has at least one circumferential abutment surface configured to abut against the at least one guide portion in order to maintain the relative position between the plurality of first sprocket teeth and the plurality of second sprocket teeth in the circumferential direction.

5. The sprocket assembly following claim 1, wherein the fixed portion has a first axial length, a first radial length and a first circumferential length relative to the rotational central axis, the first circumferential length being greater than the first axial length and the first radial length, and the at least one guide portion has a second axial length, a second radial length and a second circumferential length relative to the rotational central axis, and the second circumferential length being greater than the second axial length and the second radial length.

6. As in request item 5, the sprocket assembly wherein the second axial length is equal to or greater than 2 mm.

7. The sprocket assembly following request item 5, wherein the first axial length is greater than the first radial length, and the second axial length is greater than the second radial length.

8. The sprocket assembly following request 1, wherein the at least one guide portion comprises a plurality of guide portions.

9. The sprocket assembly following claim 1, wherein the at least one guide portion is radially outwardly disposed from the fixed portion in the radial direction, and the at least one tooth position maintaining member includes at least one connecting portion connecting the at least one guide portion to the fixed portion.

10. The sprocket assembly following claim 9, wherein the at least one connecting portion extends in one of the directions intersecting the rotational central axis.

11. The sprocket assembly following claim 1, wherein the at least one guide portion comprises a first guide portion, a second guide portion and a third guide portion, and when viewed from the axial direction, the first guide portion, the second guide portion and the third guide portion form an isosceles triangle.

12. The sprocket assembly following request item 1 further includes: A locking device configured to mount the first sprocket and the second sprocket to the rear wheel hub assembly, the locking device comprising: a first locking member configured to detachably engage with the sprocket support body of the rear wheel hub assembly in the mounted state; and a second locking member configured to detachably engage with the first locking member to abut against the first sprocket in the axial direction in the mounted state.

13. The sprocket assembly following claim 12, wherein the first locking member includes a first axial end having a first external thread, a second axial end having a first internal thread, and a first surface radially outward in the radial direction; the second locking member includes a third axial end having a second external thread, a fourth axial end having at least one radial protrusion, and a second surface radially outward in the radial direction; the first external threads of the first locking member extend radially outward from the first surface in the radial direction and are configured to engage with the internal thread of the sprocket support body disposed to the rear hub assembly in the installed state; the first internal threads of the first locking member are configured to engage with the second external threads of the second locking member; and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member extends radially outward from the second surface in the radial direction and is configured to abut against the first sprocket in the axial direction in the installed state.

14. The sprocket assembly following claim 13, wherein the first surface of the first locking member is arranged radially outward from the second surface of the second locking member in the radial direction.

15. The sprocket assembly following claim 13, wherein the first sprocket and the second sprocket are configured to be positioned in the axial direction between the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member and the sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly in the installed state.

16. The sprocket assembly following claim 13, wherein the first axial end of the first locking member includes a first tool engagement profile; and the fourth axial end of the second locking member includes a second tool engagement profile.

17. As claimed in claim 13, in which the first sprocket opening of the first sprocket has the first diameter, the second sprocket opening of the second sprocket has the second diameter, one of the radial outer diameters of the at least one radial protrusion is greater than the first diameter, one of the large diameters of the first external threads is greater than the second diameter, and the locking device is configured such that, in an assembled state in which the locking device, the first sprocket, and the second sprocket are assembled as a unit, the first sprocket and the second sprocket are positioned in the axial direction between the first external threads of the first locking member and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member.

18. The sprocket assembly following claim 13, wherein the first locking member has an axial contact surface disposed radially inward from the first surface, and the axial contact surface is configured to contact the third axial end of the second locking member in an assembled state wherein the locking device, the first sprocket and the second sprocket are assembled as a unit.

19. A sprocket assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first sprocket has a first axially outward surface and a first axially inward surface, the first axially outward surface and the first axially inward surface facing opposite directions in the axial direction, the first axially inward surface being configured to face one of the axial center planes of the human-powered vehicle in the installed state, the second sprocket has a second axially outward surface and a second axially inward surface, the second axially outward surface and the second axially inward surface facing opposite directions in the axial direction, the second axially inward surface being configured to face the axial center plane of the human-powered vehicle in the installed state, the first sprocket including a first axially inward torque transmission profile disposed on the first axially inward surface, the second sprocket including a second axially outward torque transmission profile disposed on the second axially outward surface, and the first axially inward torque transmission profile being configured to engage with the second axially outward torque transmission profile in a torque transmission manner.

20. The sprocket assembly following claim 19, wherein the second sprocket includes a second axially inward torque transmission profile disposed on one of the second axially inward surfaces, the second axially inward torque transmission profile being configured to engage in a torque transmission manner with one of a torque transmission profile disposed on a third sprocket and a torque transmission profile disposed on a sprocket support body of the rear hub assembly, and the third sprocket being adjacent to the second sprocket in the axial direction with no other sprocket between the second sprocket and the third sprocket.

21. A locking device for mounting a plurality of rear sprockets to a rear wheel hub assembly of a human-powered vehicle, the locking device comprising: A first locking member includes a first axial end having a first external thread, a second axial end having a first internal thread, and a first surface radially outward in a radial direction, the first surface being adjacent to the first external threads; and a second locking member includes a third axial end having a second external thread, a fourth axial end having at least one radial protrusion, and a second surface radially outward in the radial direction, the second surface being adjacent to the second external threads and the at least one radial protrusion; the first external threads of the first locking member extend radially outward from the first surface in the radial direction and are configured to engage with the internal threads of a sprocket support body disposed to the rear wheel hub assembly in the installed state; The first internal threads of the first locking member are configured to engage with the second external threads of the second locking member; and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member extends radially outward from the second surface in the radial direction and is configured to abut against the smallest sprocket among the plurality of rear sprockets in the axial direction in an installation state in which the plurality of rear sprockets and the locking device are mounted to the rear wheel hub assembly, wherein the first surface of the first locking member is arranged radially outward from the second surface of the second locking member in the radial direction.

22. The locking device of claim 21, wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are configured such that, in an assembled state, the first locking member, the second locking member, and at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets are assembled into a unit, and in the axial direction, the at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets are positioned between the first external threads of the first locking member and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member, wherein the at least two of the plurality of rear sprockets include a minimum sprocket and a maximum sprocket, the minimum sprocket including a minimum sprocket opening having a minimum sprocket diameter, the maximum sprocket including a maximum sprocket opening having a maximum sprocket diameter, a radially outer diameter of the at least one radial protrusion being larger than the minimum sprocket diameter, and a large diameter of the first external threads being larger than the maximum sprocket diameter.

23. The locking device of claim 21, wherein the first axial end of the first locking member includes a first tool engagement profile, and the fourth axial end of the second locking member includes a second tool engagement profile.

24. A locking device for mounting a plurality of rear sprockets to a rear wheel hub assembly for one of a human-powered vehicles, the locking device comprising: A first locking member includes a first axial end having a first external thread, a second axial end having a first internal thread, and a first surface radially outward in a radial direction, the first surface being adjacent to the first external threads; and a second locking member includes a third axial end having a second external thread, a fourth axial end having at least one radial protrusion, and a second surface radially outward in the radial direction, the second surface being adjacent to the second external threads and the at least one radial protrusion; the first external threads of the first locking member extend radially outward from the first surface in the radial direction and are configured to engage with the internal threads of a sprocket support body disposed to the rear wheel hub assembly in the installed state; The first internal threads of the first locking member are configured to engage with the second external threads of the second locking member; and the at least one radial protrusion of the second locking member extends radially outward from the second surface in the radial direction and is configured to abut against the smallest sprocket among the plurality of rear sprockets in the axial direction in an installation state in which the plurality of rear sprockets and the locking device are mounted to the rear wheel hub assembly, wherein the first locking member has an axial contact surface disposed radially inward from the first surface, and the axial contact surface is configured to contact the third axial end of the second locking member in an assembly state in which the first locking member, the second locking member and at least two sprockets among the plurality of rear sprockets are assembled into a unit.

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