Bicycle operating device

Abstract

A bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, and a cover member. The base member is configured to be mounted on a bicycle component. The base member has an internal region and an access opening communicating with the internal region. The operating member is movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position. The cover member is coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position with the access opening closed and a second position with the access opening at least partially exposed. The cover member has a first portion disposed on the outside of the base member and a second portion disposed in the internal region of the base member.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to bicycle operating mechanisms. [Previous Technology]

[0002] A bicycle typically has one or more bicycle control mechanisms for operating one or more bicycle components. Examples of such bicycle components include shifting mechanisms (e.g., derailleurs or internal derailleur hubs), suspension, and seatpost. The bicycle control mechanisms are usually located on the bicycle in a position that allows the rider easy access (e.g., on the handlebars). The bicycle control mechanisms are often connected to bicycle components, for example, those with bundling control cables. [Summary of the Invention]

[0003] Generally, this disclosure relates to various features of bicycle operating mechanisms for bicycles.

[0004] In view of the state of the prior art and according to a first aspect of the invention, a bicycle operating device is configured to substantially include a base member, an operating member, and a cover member. The base member is configured to be mounted on a bicycle component. The base member has an internal region and an access opening communicating with the internal region. The operating member is movable relative to the base member between a stationary position and an operating position. The cover member is coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position with the access opening closed and a second position with the access opening at least partially exposed. The cover member has a first portion disposed on the outside of the base member and a second portion disposed in the internal region of the base member.

[0005] Using the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect, the inner region of the base member can be easily accessed by sliding the cover member between a first position that closes the access opening and a second position that at least partially exposes the access opening.

[0006] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device is configured to include a base member, an operating member, and a cover member. The base member is configured to be mounted on a bicycle component. The base member has an internal region and an access opening communicating with the internal region. The operating member is movable relative to the base member between a stationary position and an operating position. The cover member is coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position with the access opening closed and a second position with the access opening at least partially exposed. The cover member is slidably disposed on a flat surface of the base member.

[0007] Using the bicycle operating device according to the second aspect, the inner region of the base member can be easily accessed by sliding the cover member between a first position that closes the access opening and a second position that at least partially exposes the access opening.

[0008] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the first or second aspect is constructed such that the cover member clamps a portion of the defining access opening of the base member.

[0009] Using the bicycle operating device according to the third aspect, the cover member can be reliably supported on the base member.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to third aspects is constructed such that a base member has a first housing member and a second housing member, the first housing member having an access opening completely surrounded by the first housing member, and the second housing member being attached to the first housing member.

[0011] Using the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect, the base component can be easily manufactured and the bicycle operating device can be easily assembled.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects further includes a take-up member disposed in an internal region of the base member and movable relative to the base member, wherein the cover member overlaps a portion of the internal surface of the base member when the cover member is in a second position.

[0013] The bicycle operating device according to the fifth aspect can be used to operate the cable to operate the bicycle components.

[0014] According to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is constructed such that at least one of the cover member and the base member is elastically deformable.

[0015] Using the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect, the cover member can be easily installed in the inlet opening of the base member.

[0016] According to the seventh aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect is constructed such that the cover member is elastically deformable.

[0017] Using the bicycle operating device according to the seventh aspect, the cover member can be elastically deformed to install the cover member in the inlet opening of the base member.

[0018] According to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects is constructed such that the cover member includes an outer surface having a structure that facilitates gripping of the cover member.

[0019] Using the bicycle operating device according to the eighth aspect, the cover member can be moved more easily between a first position with the access opening closed and a second position with the access opening at least partially exposed.

[0020] According to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is constructed such that the access opening includes a straight edge portion that slidably engages with the cover member.

[0021] Using the bicycle operating device according to the ninth aspect, the cover member can be easily slid on the straight edge portion between a first position with the access opening closed and a second position with the access opening at least partially exposed.

[0022] According to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is constructed such that the access opening has a quadrilateral shape.

[0023] Using the bicycle operating device according to the tenth aspect, the base member and the cover member can be manufactured in a simple shape.

[0024] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is constructed such that the cover member includes a first groove for receiving a first sliding edge portion of the base member.

[0025] Using the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the cover member can be easily slid on the first sliding edge portion between a first position with the access opening closed and a second position with the access opening at least partially exposed.

[0026] According to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect is constructed such that the cover member includes a second groove for receiving a second sliding edge portion of the base member. The first sliding edge portion and the second sliding edge portion are parallel and located on opposite sides of the inlet opening.

[0027] Using the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the cover member can be reliably coupled to the base member and can be easily slid on the first sliding edge and the second sliding edge.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is constructed such that a base member includes a first end edge portion and a second end edge portion. The first end edge portion and the second end edge portion are transverse to the sliding direction. A cover member includes an extension portion disposed in an internal region of the base member. The extension portion extends in the sliding direction beyond one of the first end edge portion and the second end edge portion when the cover member is in a first position.

[0029] Using the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the cover member can completely cover the inlet opening when the cover member is in the first position.

[0030] According to the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect is constructed such that the base member includes a recess disposed on the inner surface of the base member, the recess receiving an extension portion when the cover member is in a first position with the access opening closed.

[0031] Using the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the cover member can be reliably maintained in the first position of closing the access opening.

[0032] According to a fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects further includes a winding member disposed in an internal region of a base member and movable relative to the base member. The winding member is configured to move relative to the base member to selectively move the cable in a pulling direction and a release direction opposite to the pulling direction. The winding member includes a cable attachment structure configured to attach the cable to the winding member. An operating member is operatively connected to the cable such that operation of the operating member is linked to the winding member.

[0033] The bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect can be used to operate the bicycle components by operating the cable.

[0034] According to a sixteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects further includes a handlebar mounting member and a winding member. The handlebar mounting member defines a handlebar receiving opening having a handlebar axis. The winding member is disposed in an internal region of a base member and is movable relative to the base member. The winding member is mounted in a manner rotatable relative to the base member about a rotation axis, the rotation axis being contained in a predetermined reference plane perpendicular to the handlebar axis. The operating member has a user input component, which is disposed on a first side of the predetermined reference plane. The receiving opening of the base member is disposed on the first side of the predetermined reference plane.

[0035] Using the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the bicycle operating device can be conveniently positioned on the handlebars, and the user input component can be easily operated.

[0036] According to the seventeenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect is constructed such that the base member has an edge defining a receiving opening, the edge having a first point and a second point. The second point is located on the opposite side of the receiving opening in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation. The first point is spaced from the axis of rotation by a first distance. The second point is spaced from the axis of rotation by a second distance different from the first distance.

[0037] Using the bicycle operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, the base component can be manufactured inexpensively and easily by injection molding using a straight-pull mold.

[0038] According to the eighteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect is constructed such that the base member defines an outlet hole through which the cable is released. The outlet hole, the attachment structure, and the inlet opening are aligned in a straight line when the winding member is in a predetermined phase.

[0039] Using the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, the cable can be easily coupled to the winding member.

[0040] According to the nineteenth aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects is constructed such that the cover member includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to a first position.

[0041] Using the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, the user can reliably determine when the cover member has reached the first position.

[0042] According to the twentieth aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects is constructed such that the cover member includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to a second position.

[0043] Using the bicycle operating device according to aspect 20, the user can reliably determine when the cover component has reached the second position.

[0044] According to the twenty-first aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects is constructed such that the sliding direction moves in a plane that is not parallel to the rotation axis of the winding member.

[0045] The cover member can be easily connected using the bicycle operating device according to aspect 21.

[0046] According to the twenty-second aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects is constructed such that the sliding direction moves in a plane not perpendicular to the rotation axis of the winding member.

[0047] The cover member can be easily connected using the bicycle operating device according to aspect 22.

[0048] According to the twenty-third aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-second aspects but other than the seventh aspect is constructed such that the cover component is made of plastic material.

[0049] Using the bicycle operating device according to aspect 23, the cover component can be lightweight and will not rust.

[0050] According to the twenty-fourth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-second aspects is constructed such that the cover member is made of a metallic material.

[0051] The cover component can be durable using the bicycle operating device according to aspect 24.

[0052] Furthermore, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle operating device will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein a preferred embodiment of the bicycle operating device is disclosed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Implementation Method

[0084] The selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art of bicycles from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0085] Referring first to Figures 1 to 5, a portion of the handlebars H of a bicycle is shown equipped with a bicycle operating device 10 according to an illustrative embodiment. Here, the bicycle operating device 10 basically includes a base member 12, an operating member 14, and a cover member 16. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted on a bicycle component. Here, the bicycle component is the handlebars H. However, the base member 12 can be configured to be mounted on other bicycle components.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is, for example, positioned on the right side of the handlebar H for operation by the rider's right hand. Alternatively, the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured as a mirror image and positioned on the left side of the handlebar H. Although the handlebar H in the illustrated embodiment is a flat handlebar (MTB handlebar), the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured to be mounted on other types of handlebars, such as drop handlebars (road handlebars). The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a handlebar mounting member 18. The handlebar mounting member 18 defines a handlebar receiving opening 18a having a handlebar axis A1. The handlebar mounting member 18 is configured to be mounted on the handlebar H in a conventional manner. The handlebar mounting member 18 is preferably made of a strong, rigid material such as metal or reinforced resin. Here, the handlebar mounting member 18 includes a handlebar clamp 20 and a clamping bolt 22 for tightening the handlebar clamp 20 around the handlebar H. Although the handlebar clamp 20 is shown as a single unit (i.e., a non-hinged clamp), the handlebar clamp 20 can be a hinged clamp with a pair of curved jaws that are pivotally connected at one end and adjustablely coupled at the other end by means of a clamping bolt 22.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, as seen in FIG1, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured to be operatively coupled to the bicycle assembly BC via a cable C. Preferably, as seen in FIG1, the cable C is a conventional bicycle operating cable having an outer tube C1 covering an inner wire C2. In other words, the cable C is a wrap-around cable, wherein the inner wire C2 is slidably received within the outer tube C1. The inner wire C2 has a cable nipple or attachment tube C3 (see FIG7 and FIG12) for attaching the inner wire C2 to the bicycle operating device 10, as discussed below. The bicycle operating device 10 operates the bicycle assembly BC by selectively pulling and releasing the inner wire C2. Thus, the bicycle operating device 10 constitutes a bicycle cable operating device. The inner wire C2 of the cable C is pulled into and released from the base member 12, as described below.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured as a gearbox to control the gears of a shifting device (bicycle assembly BC) such as a derailleur or internal derailleur hub. However, the bicycle operating device 10 can be used as a bicycle control device as needed and / or desired to operate other types of bicycle assemblies (e.g., suspension, adjustable seatpost, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, as seen in Figures 2 and 3, the bicycle operating device 10 has a plurality of operating positions.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes an additional operating member 24. The user selectively operates the operating member 14 to pull the inner thread C2 of the cable C, or operates the additional operating member 24 to release the inner thread C2 of the cable C. Therefore, the operating member 14 constitutes a first user operating member, and the additional operating member 24 constitutes a second user operating member.

[0090] Here, the operating member 14 and the additional operating member 24 are rods pivotally mounted to the base member 12. Therefore, the operating member 14 is a wire pulling rod used to pull the inner thread C2 of the cable C into the base member 12. On the other hand, the additional operating member 24 is a cable release rod used to release the inner thread C2 of the cable C from the base member 12. However, the bicycle operating device 10 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. For example, the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured to have only a single operating member performing both the pulling and releasing operations. Furthermore, the bicycle operating device 10 can be configured to have one or more operating members that can move linearly relative to the base member 12.

[0091] The operating member 14 is movable relative to the base member 12 between a stationary position and an operating position. Specifically, as seen in Figures 2 and 8, the operating member 14 is mounted in a pivotable manner relative to the base member 12, so as to move about the pivot axis A2 in the first direction D1 between the stationary position (Figure 2) and the operating position (Figure 8). As explained below, the pulling operation of the inner wire C2 is performed by the pivotal movement of the operating member 14 in the first direction D1 from the stationary position (Figure 2) to the operating position (Figure 8). The term "stationary position" as used herein refers to a state in which a component (e.g., the operating member 14) remains stationary and the user does not need to hold the component in that state. On the other hand, the term "actuated position" as used herein refers to a temporary state in which a component (e.g., the operating member 14) is temporarily held in a position due to an external force being input into the bicycle operating device 10. Since the configuration of the operating member 14 is well known, the operation and configuration of the operating member 14 will not be discussed in more detail.

[0092] Similar to the operating member 14, the additional operating member 24 is movable relative to the base member 12 between a stationary position and an operating position. Specifically, as seen in Figures 2 and 9, the additional operating member 24 is mounted in a pivotable manner relative to the base member 12, moving about a pivot axis A2 in the second direction D2 between the stationary position (Figure 2) and the operating position (Figure 9). As explained below, the release operation of the inner thread C2 is performed by the pivotal movement of the additional operating member 24 in the second direction D2 from the stationary position (Figure 2) to the operating position (Figure 9). However, the additional operating member 24 is also mounted in a pivotable manner relative to the base member 12, moving about a pivot axis A3 in the third direction D3 between the stationary position (Figure 2) and the operating position (Figure 10). The pivot axis A3 is offset from and parallel to the pivot axis A2. As explained below, the release operation of the inner wire C2 is performed by the pivoting movement of the additional operating member 24 in the third direction D3 from the stationary position (Fig. 2) to the operating position (Fig. 10). Since the configuration of the additional operating member 24 is well known, its operation and configuration will not be discussed in more detail.

[0093] The base member 12 has an inner region 26 and an access opening 28 communicating with the inner region 26. Basically, the base member 12 has a first outer shell member 30 and a second outer shell member 32. The first outer shell member 30 has the access opening 28. The access opening 28 is completely surrounded by the first outer shell member 30. The second outer shell member 32 is attached to the first outer shell member 30. For example, the first outer shell member 30 and the second outer shell member 32 can be snapped together or fastened together by a fastener such as a screw. Alternatively, the first outer shell member 30 and the second outer shell member 32 can be adhesively fastened together.

[0094] As seen in Figures 6 and 7, the second housing component 32 has a notch 36, which is formed at the joint where the second housing component 32 mates with the first housing component 30. An additional operating member 24 extends through the notch 36. The notch 36 is sized to allow the additional operating member 24 to move from the resting position in Figure 2 to the operating position in Figures 9 and 10. Also, as seen in Figure 11, the second housing component 32 has an opening 38 for receiving the operating member 14, as shown in Figure 11.

[0095] As seen in Figures 11 and 12, the first housing component 30 of the base member 12 defines an outlet hole 40 through which the cable C is released. The outlet hole 40 is configured to receive a barrel adjuster 42, as seen in Figure 11. The outlet hole 40 is aligned with the inlet opening 28 so that the cable C can be inserted straight into the inlet opening 28 and exit straight out of the outlet hole 40.

[0096] The cover member 16 is slidably mounted in the access opening 28. Specifically, the cover member 16 is coupled to the base member 12 in a manner that allows it to slide in the sliding direction SD between a first position (Figures 2, 4, and 6) where the access opening 28 is closed and a second position (Figures 3, 5, and 7) where the access opening 28 is at least partially exposed. Preferably, at least one of the cover member 16 and the base member 12 is elastically deformable. In this way, the cover member 16 can be easily installed into the access opening 28 of the base member 12. If the base member 12 is made of a rigid plastic or metal material, the cover member 16 is elastically deformable. On the other hand, if the cover member 16 is made of a rigid plastic or metal material, the base member 12 is elastically deformable. Therefore, if the base member 12 is elastically deformable, the cover member 16 is made of either a plastic material or a metal material.

[0097] Referring now to Figures 13 to 15, the base member 12 and internal components of the bicycle operating device 10 will now be discussed. Essentially, the base member 12 also includes an internal support member that supports the internal components of the bicycle operating device 10. The internal support member has a first support plate 44, a second support plate 46, and a mounting bolt 48. A fixing nut 50 (see Figure 11) is screwed onto the mounting bolt 48 to connect the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46.

[0098] The operating member 14 is also pivotally supported on the mounting bolt 48. The mounting bolt 48 also defines a pivot axis A2. The additional operating member 24 is movably coupled to the second support plate 46 for selectively pivoting about either pivot axis A2 or the second pivot axis P2. The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a biasing element 54 for biasing the operating member 14 and the additional operating member 24 to their respective rest positions. The biasing element 54 has one end operatively coupled to the operating member 14 and the other end operatively coupled to the additional operating member 24. In this way, the operating member 14 and the additional operating member 24 are configured to have a trigger action such that each of the operating member 14 and the additional operating member 24 automatically returns to the rest position when moved from the rest position to the operating position and released.

[0099] The handlebar mounting member 18, the first housing component 30, and the second housing component 32 are fixed to the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46. Therefore, the handlebar mounting member 18, the first housing component 30, the second housing component 32, the first support plate 44, and the second support plate 46 can be considered as stationary base components of the bicycle operating device 10. The handlebar mounting member 18 is removably attached to the first support plate 44 and the second support plate 46. Specifically, the handlebar clamp 20 of the handlebar mounting member 18 is attached to the first support plate 44 by a first fixing bolt 56. The handlebar clamp 20 of the handlebar mounting member 18 is attached to the second support plate 46 by a second fixing bolt 58.

[0100] The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a winding member 60. The winding member 60 is disposed in the inner region 26 of the base member 12 and is movable relative to the base member 12. The winding member 60 is configured to move relative to the base member 12 to selectively move the cable in a pulling direction X1 and a release direction X2 opposite to the pulling direction. Here, the winding member 60 is rotatably mounted on a mounting bolt 48. Therefore, the pivot axis A2 of the mounting bolt 48 coincides with the rotation axis A2 of the winding member 60. In this way, the winding member 60 is mounted in a manner that allows it to rotate relative to the base member 12 about the rotation axis A2. Preferably, as in the illustrated embodiment, the rotation axis A2 is contained in a predetermined reference plane RP perpendicular to the handlebar axis A1. The operating member 14 has a user input component 14a, which is disposed on a first side S1 of the predetermined reference plane RP. Similarly, the additional operating member 24 has a user input component 24a, which is disposed on the first side S1 of the predetermined reference plane RP. The inlet opening 28 of the base member 12 is disposed on the first side S1 of the predetermined reference plane RP. The outlet hole 40 is disposed on the second side S2 of the predetermined reference plane RP.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 14, the winding member 60 includes a cable attachment structure 60a, which is configured to attach the cable C to the winding member 60. Here, the cable attachment structure 60a includes a recess and a wire receiving inner hole. The recess is configured to support the attachment barrel C3 of the inner wire C2, and the wire receiving inner hole receives the inner wire C2 passing through it. In this way, the inner wire C2 is attached to the winding member 60 by means of the cable attachment structure 60a, so that the inner wire C2 can be selectively pulled or released according to the rotation of the winding member 60. A biasing element 61 is disposed between the first support plate 44 and the winding member 60 to bias the winding member 60 in the release direction X2. The outlet hole 40, the attachment structure 60a, and the inlet opening 28 are aligned in a straight line when the winding member 60 is in a predetermined phase. Here, the predetermined phase corresponds to the winding member 60 in the fully released position.

[0102] The operating member 14 is operatively connected via cable C, such that the operation of the operating member 14 is connected to the winding member 60. Specifically, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a positioning ratchet 62, a positioning pawl 64, a pulling pawl 66, and a releasing pawl 68. The positioning ratchet 62 and the positioning pawl 64 define the positioning mechanism of the bicycle operating device 10, which is operated in response to the operation of the operating member 14 and the additional operating member 24. Positioning mechanisms for bicycle operating devices are well known, and therefore, for the sake of brevity, the positioning mechanism of the bicycle operating device 10 will only be described briefly.

[0103] The positioning ratchet 62 is immovably coupled to the winding member 60, such that the winding member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 move relative to the base member 12 as a unit. Therefore, the positioning ratchet 62 is pivotally mounted on the mounting bolt 48. Here, the winding member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 are separate components coupled together to move as a unit. Alternatively, the positioning ratchet 62 can be integrally formed as part of the winding member 60, becoming a single component.

[0104] A positioning pawl 64 is pivotally mounted on the second support plate 46 and biased toward engaging with a positioning ratchet 62. The positioning ratchet 62 includes a plurality of positioning ratchet teeth. The positioning ratchet teeth of the positioning ratchet 62 selectively engage and disengage with the positioning pawl 64 to position the take-up member 60 relative to the base member 12. In the case of a pull operation, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 rotate about the pivot axis A2 in the pull direction X1 in response to the operation of the operating member 14. In the case of a release operation, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 rotate about the pivot axis A2 in the release direction X2 in response to the operation of the additional operating member 24.

[0105] A pull pawl 66 is disposed on the operating member 14 such that the pull pawl 66 moves as the operating member 14 moves. A positioning ratchet 62 moves from one of predetermined positions to another in response to the operating member 14 being moved from a rest position to an operating position. More specifically, the pull pawl 66 selectively engages one of the positioning ratchet teeth of the positioning ratchet 62 to move the take-up member 60 in the pull direction X1 during the pull operation. When the positioning ratchet 62 moves in the pull direction X1 during the pull operation, the take-up member 60 pivots relative to the base member 12 in the pull direction X1. The take-up member 60 can be moved one or more predetermined positions depending on the amount of movement of the operating member 14 about the pivot axis A2.

[0106] The release pawl 68 is pivotally mounted on the second support plate 46. The release pawl 68 is moved in response to the operation of the additional operating member 24 in either the second direction D2 or the third direction D3 to perform a release operation. Here, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a first release member 70 pivotally mounted on the mounting bolt 48 and a second release member 72 pivotally mounted on the first release member 70. The positioning pawl 64 disengages from the positioning ratchet 62 by pivoting the release pawl 68 on the second release member 72. More specifically, in response to the release operation of the additional operating member 24, the first and second release members 72 are moved from a rest position to an operating position to pivot the release pawl 68 from the non-release position to the release position. This movement of the release pawl 68 from the non-release position to the release position causes the positioning pawl 64 to disengage from one of the positioning ratchet teeth of the positioning ratchet 62. As a result, the take-up member 60 and the positioning ratchet 62 can be moved in the release direction X2 in response to the operation of the additional operating member 24 in the second direction D2 or the third direction D3.

[0107] Referring now to Figures 14 to 29, the portion of the cover member 16 and the first outer casing member 30 including the inlet opening 28 will be discussed in further detail. As mentioned above, the cover member 16 is provided in the inlet opening 28 in a manner that allows it to slide in the sliding direction SD between a first position (Figures 2, 4, and 6) where the inlet opening 28 is closed and a second position (Figures 3, 5, and 7) where the inlet opening 28 is at least partially exposed. Here, the sliding direction SD moves in a plane that is not parallel to the rotation axis A2 of the winding member 60. Also, the sliding direction SD moves in a plane that is not perpendicular to the rotation axis A2 of the winding member 60.

[0108] As mentioned above, the first housing component 30 of the base member 14 defines the access opening 28. The first housing component 30 of the base member 12 has an edge 80 defining the access opening 28. More specifically, the first housing component 30 of the base member 12 includes a first sliding edge portion 81 and a second sliding edge portion 82. The first sliding edge portion 81 and the second sliding edge portion 82 are parallel and located on opposite sides of the access opening 28. The first housing component 30 of the base member 12 also includes a first end edge portion 83 and a second end edge portion 84. The first end edge portion 83 and the second end edge portion 84 are transverse to the sliding direction SD. In this way, the first sliding edge portion 81, the second sliding edge portion 82, the first end edge portion 83, and the second end edge portion 84 form the edge 80 defining the access opening 28. Therefore, the access opening 28 here has a quadrilateral shape.

[0109] As seen in Figures 22 and 23, the base member 12 further includes a first recess 85 and a second recess 86. As seen in Figure 22, the first recess 85 is configured to engage the cover member 16 to hold the cover member 16 in a first position. As seen in Figure 23, the second recess 86 is configured to engage the cover member 16 to hold the cover member 16 in a second position.

[0110] As seen in Figure 25, edge 80 has a first point 80a and a second point 80b. The second point 80b is located on the opposite side of the entry opening 28 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis A2. In other words, the first point 80a is located on the first sliding edge portion 81, and the second point 80b is located on the second sliding edge portion 82. The first point 80a is separated from the rotation axis A2 by a first distance L1. The second point 80b is separated from the rotation axis A2 by a second distance L2, which is different from the first distance L1.

[0111] Referring back to Figures 16 to 18, the base member 12 includes a recess 88 which is disposed on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12. As explained later, the recess 88 is configured in the cover member 16 to slide between a first position (Figure 16) and a second position (Figure 17) where the access opening 28 is closed.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover member 16 clamps a portion of the defining access opening 28 of the base member 12. Specifically, the cover member 16 has a first portion 90 and a second portion 91. The first portion 90 is disposed on the outside of the base member 12. The second portion 91 is disposed in the inner region 26 of the base member 12. The first portion 90 of the cover member 16 includes an outer surface 90a having a structure 90b that facilitates gripping of the cover member 16. Here, the structure 90b includes a plurality of grooves extending in a direction transverse to the sliding direction of the cover member 16.

[0113] Here, the cover member 16 is slidably disposed on the flat surface 30a of the base member 12. More specifically, the first outer shell member 30 of the base member 12 has a flat surface 30a on which a first portion 90 of the cover member 16 slides. To facilitate the sliding of the cover member 16, the cover member 16 includes a first groove 92 that receives a first sliding edge portion 81 of the base member 12. Furthermore, the cover member 16 includes a second groove 93 that receives a second sliding edge portion 82 of the base member 12. In this way, the access opening 28 includes a straight edge portion that slidably engages with the cover member 16.

[0114] As seen in Figures 16 and 17, the cover member 16 includes an extension 94 disposed in the inner region 26 of the base member 12. Therefore, the extension 94 is part of the second portion 91 of the cover member 16. The recess 88 includes a first recess portion 88a and a second recess portion 88b. The first recess portion 88a and the second recess portion 88b are disposed on opposite sides of the access opening 28. Preferably, when the cover member 16 is in a first position with the access opening 28 closed, the recess 88a on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 receives the extension 94, as seen in Figure 16. On the other hand, when the cover member 16 is in a second position with the access opening 28 exposed, the recess 88b on the inner surface 30a of the base member 12 receives the extension 94, as seen in Figure 17. Therefore, when the cover member 16 is in the first position, the extension 94 extends in the sliding direction SD beyond one of the first end edge portion 83 and the second end edge portion 84. Here, the extension 94 extends beyond the first end edge portion 83 in the sliding direction SD when the cover member 16 is in the first position. Also, here, the extension 94 extends beyond the second end edge portion 84 in the sliding direction SD when the cover member 16 is in the second position exposing the access opening 28. Therefore, when the cover member 16 is in the second position, it overlaps with a portion of the inner surface 30a of the base member 12.

[0115] As seen in Figures 22 and 23, the cover member 16 includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to a first position. Furthermore, the cover member 16 includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to a second position. Here, the same structure of the cover member 16 generates tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position and also generates tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position. Specifically, the cover member 16 includes a recess 95 that engages with a first recess 85 of the first outer shell member 30 of the base member 12 to generate tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the first position, as seen in Figure 22. The recess 95 engages with a second recess 86 of the first outer shell member 30 of the base member 12 to generate tactile feedback when the cover member 16 is moved to the second position, as seen in Figure 23.

[0116] In understanding the scope of the invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives are intended as open-ended terms defining the appearance of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the appearance of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, the terms "part," "section," "section," "component," or "element," when used in the singular, can have a dual meaning of a single component or a plurality of components, unless otherwise stated.

[0117] As used herein, the following directional terms "facing the frame side," "not facing the frame side," "forward," "backward," "front," "back," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," and "cross-section," and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright riding position equipped with bicycle controls. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe bicycle controls should be interpreted relative to a bicycle in an upright riding position equipped with bicycle controls on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle with reference to the right side, and to indicate "left" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle with reference to the left side.

[0118] The term "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" desired choices. For one example, if the number of choices is two, the term "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "both of the two choices." For another example, if the number of choices is equal to or greater than three, the term "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "any combination of two choices equal to or greater than two choices." Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "either one or both of."

[0119] Furthermore, it will be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various different components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, the first element discussed above may be referred to as the second element without departing from the teachings of the invention, and vice versa.

[0120] The terms “attached” and “attached” as used herein encompass: a configuration in which one element is directly secured to another element by directly fixing it to the other element; a configuration in which one element is indirectly secured to another element by fixing it to an intermediate member, which in turn is fixed to the other element; and a configuration in which one element and another element are integrally formed (i.e., one element is essentially part of another element). This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as “connected,” “joined,” “coupled,” “installed,” “combined,” “fixed,” and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as “substantively,” “approximately,” and “nearly” as used herein indicate a variation in the modified terms such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0121] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components can be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, components shown as directly connected or in contact with each other can have an intermediate structure disposed between them, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. The function of one element can be performed by two elements, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The structure and function of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages need not be presented simultaneously in one particular embodiment. Each feature that is unique to the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features. Therefore, the foregoing description of embodiments of the present invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Simplified Explanation of the Diagram]

[0053] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings that form part of this original disclosure.

[0054] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of a portion of the handlebars of a bicycle equipped with a bicycle operating device according to an illustrative embodiment.

[0055] [Figure 2] is a top view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figure 1, wherein the first operating member and the second operating member are in a stationary position, and wherein the cover member is in a first position with the inlet opening closed.

[0056] [Figure 3], similar to Figure 2, is a top view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figures 1 and 2, but in which the cover member is located in a second position exposing the access opening.

[0057] [Figure 4] is a perspective view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figures 1 to 3, wherein the cover member is in the first position of closing the access opening.

[0058] [Fig. 5], similar to Fig. 4, is a perspective view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figs. 1 to 4, but in which the cover member is located in a second position exposing the access opening.

[0059] [Figure 6] is an outer view of the bicycle operating device shown in Figures 1 to 5, wherein the user input component of the second operating member has been omitted, and wherein the cover member is in the first position of closing the access opening.

[0060] [Fig. 7], similar to Fig. 6, is an outer view of the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 6, but in which the cover member is located in a second position exposing the access opening.

[0061] [Figure 8] is a top view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figures 1 to 6, wherein the first operating member has been moved from the stationary position to the operating position in a first direction to perform a cable pulling operation.

[0062] [Figure 9] is a top view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figures 1 to 8, wherein the second operating member has been moved from the stationary position to the first operating position in the second direction to perform a cable release operation.

[0063] [Fig. 10] is a top view of a bicycle operating device coupled to the handlebars as shown in Figs. 1 to 9, wherein the second operating member has been moved from the stationary position to the second operating position in the third direction to perform a cable release operation.

[0064] [Figure 11] is a bottom view of the bicycle operating device shown in Figures 1 to 10.

[0065] [Fig. 12] is an inside view of the bicycle operating mechanism shown in Figs. 1 to 11.

[0066] [Fig. 13] is a partial exploded perspective view of selected components of the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 12.

[0067] [Fig. 14] is a top view of selected components of the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 12, wherein the first operating component and the second operating component are in the stationary position.

[0068] [Fig. 15], similar to Fig. 14, is a top view of selected components of the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 12, wherein additional components have been omitted.

[0069] [Fig. 16] is a partial lower view of the first housing component and cover component of the base member of the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 12, wherein the cover component is in a first position with the access opening closed.

[0070] [Fig. 17], similar to Fig. 16, is a partial lower view of the first outer shell component and the cover component of the base component, wherein the cover component is located in a second position with the inlet opening exposed.

[0071] [Fig. 18], similar to Fig. 16 and Fig. 17, is a partial bottom view of the first outer shell component of the base member, wherein the cover component has been omitted.

[0072] [Fig. 19] is a partial bottom view of the first housing component and cover component of the base member of the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 12, wherein the cover component is in a first position with the access opening closed.

[0073] [Fig. 20], similar to Fig. 19, is a partial lower view of the first outer shell component and the cover component of the base component, wherein the cover component is located in a second position with the inlet opening exposed.

[0074] [Figure 21], similar to Figures 19 and 20, is a partial bottom view of the first outer shell component of the base member, wherein the cover component has been omitted.

[0075] [Fig. 22] is a cross-sectional view of the first outer shell component and cover component of the base component taken along section line 22-22 of Fig. 16.

[0076] [Fig. 23] is a cross-sectional view of the first outer shell component and cover component of the base component taken along section line 23-23 of Fig. 17.

[0077] [Fig. 24] is a cross-sectional view of the first outer shell component and cover component of the base component taken along section line 24-24 of Fig. 19.

[0078] [Fig. 25] is a cross-sectional view of the first outer shell component and cover component of the base component taken along section line 25-25 of Fig. 20.

[0079] [Fig. 26] is a cross-sectional view of the first outer shell component and cover component of the base component taken along section line 26-26 of Fig. 19.

[0080] [Fig. 27] is an oblique sectional view of the first outer shell component and cover component of the base component taken along section line 27-27 of Fig. 20.

[0081] [Fig. 28] is a first perspective view of selected components of the cover member for the bicycle operating device shown in Figs. 1 to 12.

[0082] [Fig. 29] is a second perspective view of a selected component of the cover member shown in Fig. 28.

[0083] [Fig. 30] is a second perspective view of a selected component of the cover member shown in Figs. 28 and 29.

Claims

1. A bicycle operating device comprising: a base member configured to be mounted on a bicycle component, the base member having an interior region and an access opening communicating with the interior region; an operating member movable relative to the base member between a stationary position and an operating position; and a cover member coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position closing the access opening and a second position at least partially exposing the access opening, the cover member having a first portion disposed on the outside of the base member and a second portion disposed in the interior region of the base member.

2. A bicycle operating device comprising: a base member configured to be mounted on a bicycle component, the base member having an interior region and an access opening communicating with the interior region; an operating member movable relative to the base member between a rest position and an operating position; and a cover member coupled to the base member in a sliding direction between a first position closing the access opening and a second position at least partially exposing the access opening, the cover member being slidably disposed on a flat surface of the base member.

3. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member clamps a portion of the base member that defines the access opening.

4. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the base member has a first housing component and a second housing component, the first housing component having the access opening completely surrounded by the first housing component, and the second housing component being attached to the first housing component.

5. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2 further includes a winding member disposed in the inner region of the base member and movable relative to the base member, wherein the cover member overlaps a portion of the inner surface of the base member when the cover member is in the second position.

6. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the cover member and the base member is elastically deformable.

7. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the cover member is elastically deformable.

8. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member includes an outer surface having a structure that facilitates gripping of the cover member.

9. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the access opening includes a straight edge portion that slidably engages with the cover member.

10. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the access opening has a quadrilateral shape.

11. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member includes a first groove for receiving a first sliding edge portion of the base member.

12. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the cover member includes a second groove for receiving a second sliding edge portion of the base member, the first sliding edge portion and the second sliding edge portion being parallel and located on opposite sides of the access opening.

13. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the base member includes a first end edge portion and a second end edge portion, the first end edge portion and the second end edge portion being transverse to the sliding direction, and the cover member includes an extension portion disposed in the inner region of the base member, the extension portion extending in the sliding direction beyond one of the first end edge portion and the second end edge portion when the cover member is in the first position.

14. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 13, wherein the base member includes a recess disposed on an inner surface of the base member, the recess receiving the extension portion when the cover member is in the first position with the access opening closed.

15. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a winding member disposed in the internal region of the base member and movable relative to the base member, wherein the winding member is configured to move relative to the base member to selectively move a cable in a pulling direction and a release direction opposite to the pulling direction, the winding member including a cable attachment structure configured to attach the cable to the winding member, and the operating member being operatively connected by the cable such that the operation of the operating member is connected to the winding member.

16. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further comprising a handlebar mounting member defining a handlebar receiving opening having a handlebar axis, and a winding member disposed in the inner region of the base member and movable relative to the base member, wherein the winding member is mounted in a manner rotatable relative to the base member about a rotation axis contained in a predetermined reference plane perpendicular to the handlebar axis, the operating member having a user input component disposed on a first side of the predetermined reference plane, and the receiving opening of the base member being disposed on the first side of the predetermined reference plane.

17. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 16, wherein the base member has an edge defining the access opening, the edge having a first point and a second point, the second point being located on the opposite side of the access opening in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation, the first point being spaced from the axis of rotation by a first distance, and the second point being spaced from the axis of rotation by a second distance different from the first distance.

18. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the base member defines an outlet hole through which the cable is released, and the outlet hole, the attachment structure, and the inlet opening are aligned in a straight line when the take-up member is in a predetermined phase.

19. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to the first position.

20. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member includes a structure that generates tactile feedback when the cover member is moved to the second position.

21. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the sliding direction moves in a plane that is not parallel to the axis of rotation of the take-up member.

22. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the sliding direction moves in a plane not perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the take-up member.

23. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member is made of plastic material.

24. The bicycle operating device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member is made of a metallic material.

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