Bicycle saddle

Abstract

The present invention refers to a bicycle saddle (1) comprising a support structure (10) and a seat part (30) having a front portion (32), a central portion (34) and a rear portion (36). The rear portion (36) comprises a first seat element (40A) and a second seat element (40B) adapted to support the ischial tuberosities (Tdx, Tsx) of a cyclist. The saddle (1) comprises a first joint (42A; 142) adapted to connect the first seat element (40A) to the support structure (10) and a second joint (42B; 142) adapted to connect the second seat element (40B) to the support structure (10) so that the first seat element (40A) is free to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to the support structure (10), the second seat element (40B) is free to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to the support structure (10) and the first seat element (40A) and the second seat element (40B) can move independently of each other.

Description

[0001] BICYCLE SADDLE.

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the sector of bicycle construction.

[0004] In particular, the present invention refers to a bicycle saddle.

[0005] DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE ART

[0006] It is known in the production of bicycle saddles, especially in the professional and amateur sport sector, to place particular importance on the aspects connected with the problems that arise for cyclists during pedalling.

[0007] The more time spent pedalling, the greater the discomfort for the cyclist due to the position on the saddle.

[0008] A first type of problem derives from the different postures assumed by the cyclist when pedalling that can result in discomfort at the skeletal level, in particular problems of back pain at the lumbar level.

[0009] Another type of problem concerns the direct contact between the cyclist's body and the seat surface of the saddle.

[0010] As is known, the saddle supports a large part of the cyclist's weight during pedalling and considering the relatively small surface area of the saddle itself, there is a concentration of pressure in the contact zones between the saddle and the human body, in particular in the contact zones at the ischial tuberosities.

[0011] As time passes, pains occur at these bones.

[0012] A further problem due to direct contact between the cyclist's body and the seat surface of the saddle is at the epidermal level caused by rubbing due to the alternating movement of the legs, in particular at the inner thigh.

[0013] Another problem of known type is determined by the central zone of the saddle which causes compression of the perineal zone of the cyclist with related problems occurring in the genital zone, both male and female.

[0014] This compression causes veins, arteries and nerves in this zone to be crushed, resulting in a tingling or numbness sensation and the onset of temporary insensitivity of the genitals.

[0015] To overcome this problem, countless solutions have been proposed for so-called "anti-prostate" or "prostate-saver" saddles that have a completely open channel in the central zone. In these saddles, the weight of the cyclist weighs heavily on the ischial tuberosities while the compression of the perineal zone is reduced, in particular at the prostate.

[0016] The saddles of known type substantially identify a support structure shaped for connection to the saddle tube and a seat upper part that identifies a front portion, a central portion and a rear portion which follow one after the other along a main extension axis of the saddle.

[0017] The profile of the saddles of known type is such that generally the front portion has a downward curvature, the central portion is substantially a horizontal portion and the rear portion follows horizontally the central portion or, in some cases, is raised to give a substantially "S" course.

[0018] During pedalling, the various portions of the saddle are affected by the pressure of the cyclist's body in a manner that is from time to time different depending on the cyclist's posture / position on the bicycle, which in turn depends on the different riding conditions. For example, while riding on plains or uphill the posture of the cyclist is such that the weight of the body tends to be unloaded on the rear portion of the saddle in corresponding contact zones affecting the right and left ischial tuberosities of the cyclist. In the aerodynamic position of the cyclist, for example during a stopwatch race, the cyclist is positioned with the weight forward and with a posture such that the weight of the body tends to be unloaded on the front portion.

[0019] Downhill, the body tends to slide towards the central and front portion of the saddle and the weight of the body tends to be unloaded on these two portions. Downhill, moreover, the front portion provides the essential function of controlling the direction and stability of the cyclist on the bicycle who, with the inner thighs of the two legs, wraps around the front portion and manages to ride and control the stability of the bicycle.

[0020] It is also known that in the different pedalling conditions the cyclist's posture varies, and in particular the inclination of the back with respect to the ground and obviously also with respect to the saddle varies. From time to time, therefore, the pressure of the cyclist's body parts on the saddle structure varies.

[0021] The saddles are appropriately sized to ensure the best comfort considering the posture that is mostly maintained on the saddle. However, when the position on the saddle varies, the saddle is not able to exert its comfort function optimally and the aforementioned problems manifest themselves to a greater or lesser extent.

[0022] The main object of the present invention is therefore to solve at least in part the known problems in the saddles of known type.

[0023] In particular, an object of the present invention is to provide a saddle that allows to reduce discomfort at the skeletal level, in particular problems of back pain at the lumbar level and / or pains at the ischial tuberosities, compared to the saddles of known type.

[0024] A further object of the present invention is to provide a saddle that allows to reduce discomfort at the epidermal level, in particular because of rubbing due to the alternating movement of the legs, compared to the saddles of known type.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a saddle that allows to reduce discomfort in the perineal zone of the cyclist compared to the saddles of known type.

[0026] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0027] In a first aspect the present thereof, the present invention therefore refers to a bicycle saddle comprising:

[0028] - a support structure;

[0029] - a seat part comprising a front portion, a central portion and a rear portion which follow one after the other along a main extension axis of said saddle; wherein said rear portion comprises a first seat element and a second seat element laterally arranged in opposite directions to each other with respect to said main axis and adapted to support the ischial tuberosities of a cyclist and wherein the saddle comprises a first joint adapted to connect said first seat element to said support structure and a second joint adapted to connect said second seat element to said support structure so that said first seat element is free to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to said support structure, said second seat element is free to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to said support structure and said first seat element and said second seat element can move independently of each other.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the first seat element has at least three degrees of freedom with respect to the support structure and / or the second seat element has at least three degrees of freedom with respect to the support structure.

[0031] Preferably, the first joint comprises at least one element having resilient properties adapted to enable the first seat element to move in the three- dimensional space with respect to an initial neutral position and to return to said initial neutral position and / or the second joint comprises at least one element having resilient properties adapted to enable the second seat element to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to an initial neutral position and to return to said initial neutral position. According to a preferred embodiment, the first joint comprises at least one element of resilient material and / or the second joint comprises at least one element of resilient material.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the resilient material comprises an elastomeric material, preferably a natural rubber.

[0033] Preferably, the resilient material comprises a hardness between 30 and 90 Shore A, preferably a hardness between 40 and 80 Shore A, even more preferably a hardness of 70 Shore A.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, the first joint and / or the second joint comprises at least one element of cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the first joint and / or the second joint comprises a spring.

[0036] Preferably, the first seat element and the second seat element are arranged symmetrically to each other with respect to said main axis.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, the first seat element is a separate element from the second seat element.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the saddle comprises an interconnection zone between the seat elements that does not prevent the freedom of independent movement of the seat elements, said interconnection zone comprising a highly deformable material.

[0039] Preferably, the interconnection zone comprises a zone of an elastically yieldable material or a filling portion of foamed rubber.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the central portion of the saddle is an empty portion.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the first seat element and the second seat element can move independently of the front portion of the saddle.

[0042] Preferably, the front portion of the saddle is fixed, not movable, with respect to the frame.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the central portion comprises filling material that does not impede the freedom of independent movement of the seat elements.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the central portion comprises highly deformable filling material, preferably elastically yieldable material or foamed rubber.

[0045] Preferably, the first seat element and / or the second seat element and / or the front portion comprise one or more covering layers made of soft material, preferably a polyurethane foam or a gel.

[0046] Preferably, the saddle comprises an outer covering layer made of material with hypoallergenic and / or breathable and / or anti-slip properties.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the first joint is of an adjustable type to allow adjustment of its degree of resilience and / or the second joint is of an adjustable type to allow adjustment of its degree of resilience.

[0048] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] Further advantages, objects and features as well as embodiments of the present invention are defined in the claims and will be elucidated hereinafter by means of the following description, in which reference is made to the attached drawing tables; in the drawings, features and / or corresponding or equivalent component parts of the present invention can be identified by the same reference numerals. In particular, in the figures:

[0050] - figure 1 shows an axonometric view of a preferred embodiment of the saddle of the invention;

[0051] - figure 2 shows a sectional view along a vertical sectional plane of the saddle of figure 1;

[0052] - figure 3 shows a bottom plan view of the saddle of figure 1 ;

[0053] - figure 4A shows a rear plan view of the saddle of figure 1 ;

[0054] - figure 4B shows a plan view along section line IVO-IV° of the saddle of figure 1;

[0055] - figure 5 shows an exploded view of the saddle of figure 1 ;

[0056] - figure 6 shows a side view of the saddle of figure 1 in a first operating condition that it can assume during use by the cyclist;

[0057] - figure 7 shows a rear view of the saddle of figure 6;

[0058] - figure 8 shows the position of the cyclist on the saddle in its first operating condition as illustrated in figure 6;

[0059] - figure 9 shows a side view of the saddle of figure 1 in a second operating condition that it can assume during use by the cyclist;

[0060] - figure 10 shows a rear view of the saddle of figure 8;

[0061] - figure 11 shows the position of the cyclist on the saddle in its second operating condition as illustrated in figure 9;

[0062] - figures 12 to 16 show some views of the saddle of figure 1 in corresponding configurations that it can assume during use by the cyclist;

[0063] - figure 17 shows a joint according to a preferred embodiment variant of the invention.

[0064] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS OF THIS INVENTION

[0065] While some particular embodiments of the present invention will be set forth in the following description relating to the figures, it is clear that the present invention is not limited to such particular embodiments but, rather, the particular embodiments described below clarify various aspects of the present invention, the scope and extent of which are defined by the claims.

[0066] The preferred embodiment examples of the invention described below find particular application in the construction of a saddle suitable for road or off-road bicycles, usable both at a competitive and amateur level.

[0067] It is clear that the proposed solutions can also be applied to bicycles of other type, such as for example the city-bikes.

[0068] A non-limiting embodiment example of a saddle 1 object of the present invention is represented in figure 1.

[0069] The saddle 1 comprises a support structure 10 shaped for connection to the tube of the bicycle saddle, not shown in the figures, and a seat upper part 30.

[0070] The upper part of the saddle tube is typically provided with a seat post element, normally of standardised type, shaped for fixing to the support structure 10 of the saddle 1.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the support structure 10, hereinafter also simply indicated with the term frame 10, substantially has a shaped form and the central zone 12, or slide, is used for connection to the seat post. The frame 10 is preferably made of metallic material.

[0072] The slide 12 preferably comprises two parallel tubes 12A, 12B which, preferably, in the standard solutions have mutual length and distance with standardized values to offer adjustment possibilities during assembly.

[0073] A front zone 14 and two rear zones 16 A, 16B are then identified on the frame 10 for connection to the seat upper part 30 of the saddle 1, as described in detail below.

[0074] The seat upper part 30 identifies, in fact, a front portion 32, a central portion 34 and a rear portion 36 which follow one after the other along a main extension axis X of the saddle 1.

[0075] The front portion 32 preferably comprises a downwardly curved body, considering the direction of advancement of the bicycle, which provides the front portion 32 with a downward beak shape.

[0076] This front portion 32 is affected by the pressure of the cyclist's body in particular positions / postures that the cyclist assumes during pedalling. For example, in the aerodynamic position of the cyclist, such as in stopwatch races, the cyclist is positioned with the weight forward and with a posture such that the body weight tends to be unloaded on the front portion 32.

[0077] Also downhill, the front portion 32 provides the essential function of controlling the direction and stability of the cyclist on the bicycle who, with the inner thighs of the two legs, wraps around the front portion 32 and manages to ride and control the stability of the bicycle.

[0078] To perform said function, the front portion 32 is fixed, not movable, with respect to the frame 10.

[0079] The front portion 32 of the saddle 1 is preferably fixed to the front zone 14 of the frame 10 by gluing.

[0080] Preferably, the front ends 14 A, 14B of the two parallel tubes 12 A, 12B of the slide 12 which are inserted into respective holes 32 A, 32B of the front portion 32 of the saddle, better visible in figure 5. In embodiment variants, fixing means equivalent to what is illustrated and described above may be provided, such as for example a fixing by interlocking with mechanical tightness or a fixing with screws, etc.

[0081] The rear portion 36 of the saddle 1 comprises a first seat element 40 A and a second seat element 40B laterally arranged in opposite directions to each other with respect to the main axis X of the saddle 1. The seat elements 40A, 40B constitute the elements adapted to support the ischial tuberosities of the cyclist: the first seat element 40A is configured to support the respective right ischial tuberosity Tdx of the cyclist, as shown in figure 8; the second seat element 40B is configured to support the respective left ischial tuberosity Tsx of the cyclist, as shown in figure 11.

[0082] The seat elements 40A, 40B are preferably positioned symmetrically with respect to the main axis X.

[0083] According to one aspect of the present invention, the saddle 1 comprises a first joint 42 A adapted to connect the first seat element 40 A to the frame 10 and a second joint 42B adapted to connect the second seat element 40B to the frame 10. More particularly, the first joint 42A is adapted to connect the first seat element 40 A to the first rear zone 16A of the frame 10 and the second joint 42B is adapted to connect the second seat element 40B to the second rear zone 16B of the frame 10.

[0084] The first joint 42 A allows the first seat element 40 A to move in the three- dimensional space with respect to the frame 10 and the second joint 42B allows the second seat element 40B to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to the frame.

[0085] In particular, the first joint 42A allows the first seat element 40 A to move according to at least three degrees of freedom with respect to the frame 10 and the second joint 42B allows the second seat element 40B to move according to at least three degrees of freedom with respect to the frame 10.

[0086] The joints 42 A, 42B preferably allow the seat elements 40 A, 40B to move independently of each other.

[0087] Furthermore, preferably, the joints 42 A, 42B allow the seat elements 40 A, 40B to move each independently also with respect to the front portion 32 of the saddle 1. Preferably, the seat elements 40A, 40B consist of two separate elements to allow said freedom of movement of one seat element 40A with respect to the other 40B.

[0088] In embodiment variants, however, an interconnection zone could be provided between the seat elements that does not however prevent the reciprocal freedom of independent movement of the seat elements. The interconnection zone preferably comprises in this case a highly deformable material, such as for example a zone of an elastically yieldable material or a filling portion of foamed rubber.

[0089] According to an advantageous aspect of the present invention, therefore, the first seat element 40A and the second seat element 40B can move in the space, preferably according to at least three degrees of freedom, to assume different positions that adapt from time to time to the different postures that the cyclist assumes when pedalling, as better described below.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment, illustrated in the figures, the first joint 42A and / or the second joint 42B comprises an element having resilient properties.

[0091] Preferably, the first joint 42A and / or the second joint 42B comprises an element of resilient material.

[0092] Each joint 42 A, 42B preferably comprises a cylindrical, or substantially cylindrical, shaped body. More preferably, each joint 42A, 42B comprises a body of material with appropriate resilience characteristics, in particular an elastomeric material. Preferably the resilient material used has a hardness between 30 and 90 Shore A, preferably a hardness between 40 and 80 Shore A, even more preferably a hardness of 70 Shore A.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the material for producing the joint 42 A, 42B comprises a natural rubber.

[0094] In embodiment variants, other materials having resilient characteristics may be used, such as for example composite materials filled with carbon and / or glass fibres, metal alloys, etc.

[0095] The first joint 42 A is fixed to the first seat element 40 A by suitable connection means 50a comprising, preferably, a screw 52A which is fixed on one side to a threaded plate 54A embedded in the material that constitutes the first joint 42A and on the other side to a threaded portion 56 A made below the first seat element 40 A, as illustrated in figures 4B and 5.

[0096] In embodiment variants, connection means equivalent to what is illustrated and described above may be provided, such as for example interlocking connection systems.

[0097] The first joint 42 A is fixed to the first rear zone 16A of the frame 10 by suitable connection means 60 A comprising, preferably, a threaded plate 62 A embedded in the material that constitutes the first joint 42A and a fixing screw 64A that rests, preferably with interposition of a washer 66 A, on the first rear zone 16A of the frame 10.

[0098] In embodiment variants, connection means equivalent to what is illustrated and described above may be provided, such as for example interlocking connection systems.

[0099] Similarly, the second joint 42B is fixed to the second seat element 40B by suitable connection means 50B comprising, preferably, a screw 52B which is fixed on one side to a threaded plate 54B embedded in the material that constitutes the second joint 42B and on the other side to a threaded portion 56B made below the second seat element 40B.

[0100] In embodiment variants, connection means equivalent to what is illustrated and described above may be provided, such as for example interlocking connection systems.

[0101] The second joint 42B is fixed to the second rear zone 16B of the frame 10 by suitable connection means 60B comprising, preferably, a threaded plate 62B embedded in the material that constitutes the second joint 42B and a fixing screw 64B that rests, preferably with interposition of a washer 66B, on the second rear zone 16B of the frame 10.

[0102] In embodiment variants, connection means equivalent to what is illustrated and described above may be provided, such as for example interlocking connection systems.

[0103] The saddle 1 according to the preferred embodiment as it is illustrated in the figures is complete and ready to be fixed to the seat post tube. In this case, preferably, the seat elements 40 A, 40B and the front portion 32 have a shape and consistency suitable for its use, for example the seat elements 40A, 40B and the front portion 32 could be made of carbon fibre. In embodiment variants, however, the seat elements 40 A, 40B and / or the front portion 32 could be coated with one or more layers of soft material, such as for example polyurethane or gel foam paddings. Furthermore, preferably, the saddle 1 can be provided with an outermost layer that completely covers it and that is intended for direct contact with the cyclist's shorts. This cover is preferably made of a material having hypoallergenic, breathable and anti-slip properties.

[0104] It is highlighted that in the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the central portion 34 of the seat upper part 30 of the saddle 1 is an empty portion, i.e. the seat elements 40A, 40B and the front portion 32 are separate and spaced elements, the advantageous effect of which will be described below.

[0105] In embodiment variants, however, the central portion may comprise a filling material which, on the one hand, does not impede the freedom of independent movement of the seat elements 40A, 40B and, on the other hand, protects against any direct contact of the cyclist's body with the underlying frame 10. Said central portion preferably comprises a highly deformable filling material, for example an elastically yieldable material or foamed rubber.

[0106] With reference to figures 6 to 16, the functioning of the saddle 1 according to the present invention during its use with the cyclist resting on it under particular pedalling conditions will be described below.

[0107] In particular, figures 6 to 8 refer to the saddle 1 in a possible operating position when the cyclist is pedalling, for example on a flat ground, and the right leg is pushing and in a lowered position (figure 8); conversely, the left leg (not visible) is in a raised position. Figures 9 to 11 refer to the saddle 1 in a possible operating position when the cyclist is pedalling, for example on a flat ground, and the left leg is pushing and in a lowered position (figure 11); conversely, the right leg (not visible) is in a raised position.

[0108] As can be seen in figures 6 to 8, when the cyclist is pedalling and is pushing on the pedal with the right leg, the first seat element 40 A follows the movement of the right leg and thanks to the first joint 42A assumes a position whereby the cyclist's butt always remains resting on the first seat element 40A: in particular the right ischial tuberosity Tdx remains resting and in contact with the first seat element 40A and the weight of the cyclist's body is homogeneously unloaded at this contact zone. The first seat element 40A, in fact, tilts and adapts to the position of the right leg.

[0109] The views of figures 6 and 7 show the inclinations of the first seat element 40A observing the saddle from two particular points of view, side and rear, respectively, considering the saddle 1 in its position of use mounted on the bicycle.

[0110] The inclination shown in figure 6 therefore refers to a possible inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume in a vertical plane passing through the main axis X of the saddle 1, hereinafter also referred to as forward-backward inclination, and which identifies a first degree of freedom of the first seat element 40A with respect to the frame 10.

[0111] The inclination shown in figure 7 refers to a possible inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume in a vertical plane orthogonal to the main axis X of the saddle 1, hereinafter also referred to as lateral inclination, and which identifies a second degree of freedom of the first seat element 40A with respect to the frame 10.

[0112] The first seat element 40A also assumes an inclined position, not illustrated, in any other vertical plane that intersects the main axis X of the saddle 1, in addition to the aforementioned two vertical planes, identifying a third degree of freedom of the first seat element 40A with respect to the frame 10.

[0113] The side view of figure 6 shows a possible forward-backward inclination that the first seat element 40A assumes with respect to the initial, or neutral, position of the saddle 1. The forward-backward inclination variation that the first seat element 40A can assume with respect to the initial position can reach positive values of the order of 35° with the right leg in its maximum extension. Advantageously, the first joint 42 A is therefore made of resilient material capable of deforming and allowing to reach these inclination values. The resilient material then allows the first joint 42A and the first seat element 40 A to return to the initial position following movement of the right leg.

[0114] Advantageously, therefore, the first joint 42 A is therefore made of resilient material capable of allowing, first, to reach said inclination values and then to return to the initial position of the first seat element 40A.

[0115] The rear view of figure 7 shows a possible outward lateral inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume with respect to the initial, or neutral, position of the saddle 1. The variation in the lateral inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume with respect to the initial position can reach positive values of the order of 25° with the right leg in its maximum extension. Still advantageously, the first joint 42A is therefore made of resilient material capable of allowing, first, to reach such values of inclination and then to return to the initial position of the first seat element 40A.

[0116] In this pedalling condition, moreover, while the first seat element 40A follows the movement of the right leg by assuming corresponding inclinations with respect to the neutral position, for example the inclinations shown in figures 6 to 8, the second seat element 40B in turn follows the movement of the left leg by assuming corresponding inclinations. It should be highlighted that in this pedalling condition the left leg is in a raised position and the second seat element 40B is subjected to minimal oscillations with respect to the neutral position. In figures 6 to 8 the second seat element 40B is shown, for simplicity of exposure, always in its neutral position.

[0117] During pedalling, in addition to the leg, the cyclist's body is also subject to movements, in particular the cyclist's body is subject to movements that affect the position of the spine and its inclination with respect to the saddle 1.

[0118] Advantageously, the movement of the right seat element 40A according to what is illustrated and described allows the cyclist to remain in an optimal resting position on the right seat element 40A itself while keeping the contact zone with the saddle 1 as extended as possible and keeping the inclination of the right ischial tuberosity Tdx and of the spine with respect to the right seat element 40A substantially constant in each position of the right leg.

[0119] It has been experimentally verified how this leads to a considerable reduction of discomfort at the skeletal level, in particular a reduction or elimination of the problems of back pain at the lumbar level and discomfort / pain at the ischial tuberosities Tdx, Tsx.

[0120] What is described with reference to the pedalling position with the pushing right leg can be applied mutatis mutandis to the pedalling position with the pushing left leg, referred to in figures 9 to 11.

[0121] More generally, the first and second joint 42 A, 42B according to the invention allow the first and second seat element 40A, 40B to assume operating positions that follow the movement of the legs by assuming corresponding inclinations, with respect to the neutral position, depending on the corresponding positions of the legs.

[0122] By way of example, figures 12 to 16 show possible operating positions of the saddle 1 and of the seat elements 40A, 40B according to the invention.

[0123] Figure 12 refers to saddle 1 in a possible operating position, for example relative to the cyclist pedalling uphill, when the cyclist is pedalling with the right leg in the raised position not pushing and the body slightly moved backwards on the saddle 1; vice versa, the left leg is in the lowered position pushing.

[0124] This figure illustrates the forward-backward inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume, which is inclined upwards with respect to its neutral position, the latter position of the first seat element 40 A being indicated with the dashed line. The figure does not illustrate the second seat element 40B, which could preferably assume the inclined position of figure 9.

[0125] The variation in the forward-backward inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume with respect to the initial position can reach negative values of the order of 25°.

[0126] Figure 13 refers to the saddle 1 in a further operating position. This figure illustrates the lateral inclination that the first seat element 40 A can assume, which is inclined inwards with respect to its neutral position.

[0127] The variation in the lateral inward inclination that the first seat element 40A can assume with respect to the initial position can reach negative values of the order of 20°.

[0128] Figure 14 refers to the saddle 1 in another operating position. This figure illustrates the lateral inclination that the second seat element 40B can assume, which is inclined inwards with respect to its neutral position.

[0129] The variation in the lateral inward inclination that the second seat element 40B can assume with respect to the initial position can reach negative values of the order of 20°.

[0130] Figures 15 and 16 refer to the saddle 1 in possible further operating positions. These figures illustrate further positions that the first seat element 40A can assume with respect to its neutral position thanks to the action of the first joint 42A according to the invention.

[0131] In these figures, it is illustrated how the first seat element 40A can rotate and assume respective rotated positions with respect to its neutral position.

[0132] Such rotation movement of the first seat element 40A identifies a further degree of freedom of the first seat element 40A with respect to the frame 10. The first joint 42 A is preferably made of resilient material capable of deforming and allowing its own torsion and the corresponding rotation of the first seat element 40A.

[0133] Obviously, what has been described and illustrated with reference to the rotation of the first seat element 40A can obviously be extended to the second seat element 40B.

[0134] In addition to the operating positions of the saddle 1 reported above by way of example, it is evident that the saddle 1 will be able to assume further operating positions in which the seat elements 40A, 40B are subjected to further movements that identify further and respective degrees of freedom, such as for example slight forward and / or backward and / or lateral translation movements or the combination of such movements.

[0135] Another advantage deriving from the movement of the seat elements 40A, 40B that follow the movement of the legs lies in the fact that the cyclist's butt actually remains always resting on the rear part 36 of the saddle 1, in particular on the seat elements 40A, 40B, and does not slide towards the central part 34 of the saddle 1.

[0136] For this reason, the central part 34 of the saddle 1 according to the invention does not require any support function and in fact, preferably, said portion 34 is empty. It follows that the area of the saddle 1 below the cyclist's perineal zone is empty, or possibly filled with a highly deformable filling material such as foamed rubber, and the cyclist's perineal zone is not subject to compression towards the saddle 1. Therefore, an obvious reduction in discomfort, tingling or numbness is obtained, compared to the saddles of known type.

[0137] For the same reason, the rubbing of the inner thigh against the saddle 1 due to the alternating movement of the legs is considerably reduced as the central part 34 is empty, with consequent considerable reduction of discomfort at the epidermal level compared to the use of saddles of known type.

[0138] It should therefore be highlighted how the saddle according to the present invention allows the numerous advantages mentioned to be achieved.

[0139] In particular, said advantages are preferably obtained by means of joints of the type described above, i.e. two cylindrical- shaped elements made of resilient material.

[0140] The feature of the resilient material allows the seat elements to return to their neutral position from the inclined position to which they are subjected during pedalling, as amply described above.

[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the material and / or the dimensions and / or the shape of these elements that make up the joints are chosen on the basis of one or more factors such as: the weight of the cyclist, the maximum extent of inclination it is wished to allow to the seat elements, the type of bicycle for which the saddle is intended, the type of terrain to be tackled, etc.

[0142] Consequently, the degree of resilience will be appropriately adapted or chosen from time to time by the cyclist, or by the manufacturer, to meet said needs.

[0143] By way of example only, the joints can be made by means of two cylindrical elements in natural rubber of hardness 70 Shore A, of diameter 40 mm and height 30 mm: according to experimental data, these joints are advantageously usable in a saddle intended for a cyclist weighing more than 80 kg. These joints allow maximum forward-backward inclinations between +15° and -10°, respectively, and internal external lateral inclinations between +15° and -10°, respectively. Obviously, the actual inclination will depend mainly on the actual weight of the cyclist and / or other particular factors, such as for example the morphology of the cyclist, musculature, etc.

[0144] In another case, the joints can be made by means of two cylindrical elements in natural rubber of hardness 70 Shore A, of diameter 30 mm and height 30 mm: according to experimental data, these joints are advantageously usable in a saddle intended for a cyclist weighing less than 80 kg. These joints allow maximum forward-backward inclinations between +35° and -25°, respectively, and internal external lateral inclinations between +25° and -20°, respectively.

[0145] In different preferred embodiments, the elements having resilient properties that define the joints may be of a different type: for example, the joint may comprise a spring appropriately sized to allow the desired inclinations of the seat element in the various pedalling positions and to allow the subsequent return to the initial / neutral position.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment, different types of saddle can be provided, i.e. different models, to be chosen based on the weight of the cyclist, in which each saddle will have appropriately sized joints different from one model to another to provide the optimal degree of resilience. It will therefore be possible to have different saddle models from which to choose the most suitable one depending on the cyclist for whom it is intended.

[0147] In further preferred embodiments, the joints may be of a replaceable type to install the joints suitable for the cyclist for whom the saddle is intended. This operation can be carried out by a mechanic or by the cyclist him- / herself.

[0148] In other preferred embodiments, the joints may be of the adjustable type and that is configurable with an optimal degree of resilience depending, for example, on the weight of the cyclist for whom the saddle is intended. This operation can be carried out by the mechanic or by the cyclist himself.

[0149] One possible example of joint of an adjustable type is shown in figure 17, wherein the joint 142 comprises a plurality of elements made of resilient material 142a-142d wherein two or more of such elements are of a removable type. For a saddle dedicated to a heavy cyclist it may be envisaged, for example, to configure the joint 142 with all the elements 142a-142d, while for lighter cyclists it may be envisaged to remove one or more elements based on the weight of the cyclist, up to the minimum configuration for lighter cyclists in which only the first element 142a is present.

[0150] It has therefore been demonstrated by means of the above detailed description of embodiments of the saddle according to the present invention represented in the drawing tables, that the saddle according to the present invention allows to achieve the intended purposes. In particular, the saddle according to the present invention allows to improve the comfort for the cyclist during pedalling compared to the saddles of known type.

[0151] Finally, it should be highlighted that the realization of the seat elements as separate elements advantageously allows their optimal sizing in terms of geometric shape, such as for example the choice of the extension and / or curvature that guarantee the desired comfort and / or aesthetic appearance.

[0152] Although the present invention has been elucidated above by the detailed description of some embodiments shown in the drawing tables, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the drawing tables and described above.

[0153] On the contrary, the scope of the present invention is defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Bicycle saddle (1) comprising:- a support structure (10);- a seat part (30) comprising a front portion (32), a central portion (34) and a rear portion (36) which follow one after the other along a main extension axis (X) of said saddle (1); characterized in that said rear portion (36) comprises a first seat element (40A) and a second seat element (40B) laterally arranged in opposite directions to each other with respect to said main axis (X) and adapted to support the ischial tuberosities (Tdx, Tsx) of a cyclist and in that it comprises a first joint (42A; 142) adapted to connect said first seat element (40A) to said support structure (10) and a second joint (42B; 142) adapted to connect said second seat element (40B) to said support structure (10) so that said first seat element (40 A) is free to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to said support structure (10), said second seat element (40B) is free to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to said support structure (10) and said first seat element (40 A) and said second seat element (40B) can move independently of each other.

2. Saddle (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said first seat element (40A) has at least three degrees of freedom with respect to said support structure (10) and / or said second seat element (40B) has at least three degrees of freedom with respect to said support structure (10).

3. Saddle (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said first joint (42A; 142) comprises at least one element having resilient properties adapted to enable said first seat element (40A) to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to an initial neutral position and to return to said initial neutral position and / or said second joint (42B; 142) comprises at least one element having resilient properties adapted to enable said second seat element (40B) to move in the three-dimensional space with respect to an initial neutral position and to return to said initial neutral position.

4. Saddle (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that said first joint (42A; 142) comprises at least one element of resilient material and / or said second joint (42B; 142) comprises at least one element of resilient material.

5. Saddle (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that said resilient material comprises an elastomeric material, preferably a natural rubber.

6. Saddle (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that said resilient material comprises a hardness between 30 and 90 Shore A, preferably a hardness between 40 and 80 Shore A, even more preferably a hardness of 70 Shore A.

7. Saddle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first seat element (40A) is a separate element from said second seat element (40B).

8. Saddle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said central portion (34) is an empty portion.

9. Saddle (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said first seat element (40 A) and / or said second seat element (40B) and / or said front portion (32) comprise one or more covering layers made of soft material, preferably a polyurethane foam or a gel, and / or said saddle (1) comprises an outer covering layer of material with hypoallergenic and / or breathable and / or anti-slip properties.

10. Saddle (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that said first joint (142) is of an adjustable type to allow adjustment of its degree of resilience and / or said second joint (142) is of an adjustable type to allow adjustment of its degree of resilience.

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