Heel-actuated bicycle pedalling mechanisms

Abstract

The present invention relates to heel-actuated bicycle pedalling mechanisms. The mechanisms comprise: a cycling shoe; a pedal mechanism for a bicycle; a mechanism for extending and changing the saddle axis; and a mechanism for extending and changing the handlebar axis. When the pedal is actuated, the pedalling power is improved, ride times are improved, and cyclist fatigue and recovery time are reduced, and at the same time the risk of injury is reduced.

Description

[0001] MECHANISMS FOR PEDALING BICYCLES FROM THE HEEL

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of cycling, specifically to mechanisms for heel-assisted pedaling of bicycles. These mechanisms comprise: a pedal shoe; a bicycle pedal mechanism; a seat axle extension and change mechanism; and a handlebar axle extension and change mechanism. By achieving pedal-assisted pedaling, pedaling power is improved, route times are reduced, cyclist fatigue and recovery time are decreased, and the risk of injury is reduced.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In cycling, force on the pedal is usually exerted by the part of the foot where the cleats are installed, that is, the forefoot, as shown in Figure 4. At this point, the sesamoid bone and tendons are involved, allowing for anatomical function based more on elasticity than on the force or pressure they can generate. This method of transmitting power to the bicycle causes greater fatigue in cyclists and, in some cases, can lead to injuries. Many cyclists do not extend their knees correctly while pedaling, whether due to bad habits acquired during riding, improper cleat adjustment, or an incorrect saddle height. In these cases, it is very common, sometimes unconsciously, to "heel strike," that is, to lower the heel excessively during the bottom phase of the pedal stroke. 1 "

[0006] Thus, in the state of the art there is a plurality of disclosures related to mechanisms for improving power in bicycle pedaling, among which, for example, there is document US10363990B1, which describes a set of bicycle pedals with transposable mounting capabilities, composed of two pedal blocks with a protruding heel triangle, joined together to form two double-sided pockets and a clearance hole, where each of the two double-sided pockets houses a ball bearing, with the clearance hole housing a bolt, acting in conjunction with said ball bearings as the pedal axle, attachable to the crank arm of a bicycle, by means of which, during the process of riding a bicycle, a cyclist can use the protruding heel triangle to make contact with the heel of their shoe, changing the applicable stresses on the foot and ligaments of the cyclist,This generates various health-related benefits, including but not limited to reduced stress on lower back muscles, decreased hip bone abnormalities, strengthened gluteal and hamstring muscles, and reduced likelihood of metatarsal bone injuries. However, the invention defined herein has the disadvantage of not providing a heel-driven bicycle pedal mechanism, where such a mechanism includes means for adjusting the saddle and handlebar positions, shifting the cyclist's position forward to maintain anatomical alignment that prevents injury.

[0007] On the other hand, there is also document DE3445043A1, in which, in order to also make intensive use of the muscular power of the posterior part of the human legs to perform work, for example, when cycling, the pedals are provided with devices known as "heel hooks", against the which the heels can press against, resulting in a significant increase in work output. This is achieved by utilizing not only the muscles of the front but also those of the rear of the leg to provide propulsion. Therefore, by using "heel hooks," an enhanced training effect is obtained while cycling. Heel hooks are elements of the pedals that are subjected to tensile stress from the forces exerted by the heel. These hooks are designed so that the foot can be lifted off the pedal immediately at any time, leaving the cyclist's legs free to stop safely and dismount in traffic, which was not possible with prior art devices.Furthermore, the heel hooks allow for a specific effort that complements cycling training and helps develop elements of the skeletal musculature necessary for cycling exercises, enhancing the training effect on circulation. However, the invention defined herein has the disadvantage of not providing a bicycle pedal mechanism with heel actuation, where such a mechanism includes means for adjusting the position of the saddle and handlebars, shifting the cyclist's position forward to maintain anatomical alignment and prevent injuries.

[0008] In the prior art, there is also document KR20180003063U, which relates to a bicycle pedal. If the existing bicycle is designed to exercise the quadriceps muscle, this design can help the bicycle operate faster and improve leg work by engaging the biceps muscles as well. The present invention seeks to add a heel support to a common bicycle pedal so that the pedal can be actuated by the heel, which can exercise the anterior thigh muscles as well as the posterior thigh muscles.However, the invention defined in this prior art has the disadvantage that it does not teach a bicycle pedal mechanism with heel drive, where said mechanism includes means of adjusting the position of the saddle and handlebars, shifting the cyclist's position forward to maintain an anatomical alignment that prevents injury.

[0009] Additionally, the prior art includes document JP2005169039A, which discloses a toe support (3) at the front of the toe / heel pedal training device (1), a protective toe fixing cover (4) at the top, and a toe load support (5) at the rear. Furthermore, a protective heel fixing cover is provided at the top, and a resistor, such as a sponge or spring, is placed between the fixed base plate (2). By pressing the sole of the foot, the strength of the entire lower limb is strengthened. Therefore, this document can be considered the general prior art for the present invention.

[0010] Finally, document DE102014011312A1 discloses a heel hook for a crank-drive pedal, comprising: an elongated lower portion (14) that can be fixed to a pedal body (11) of the pedal (10); a rear wall (16) attached to the pedal body (11) and facing away from the rear end portion (14b) of the lower portion (14); and a loop (18) disposed on the rear wall (16) with which at least a front end portion (18b, 18c) can be disposed on the pedal body. However, the invention defined in this prior art has the disadvantage that it does not disclose a heel-driven bicycle pedal mechanism, wherein such a mechanism includes means for adjusting the position of the saddle and handlebars, shifting the cyclist's position forward to maintain an anatomical alignment that prevents injury.

[0011] In accordance with the above, it is clear that in the state of the art there is a need to provide mechanisms for heel-to-pedal cycling, where such mechanisms guarantee a correct coupling between the shoe and the pedal and ensure an ergonomic position for the cyclist, in order to improve their performance, improve pedaling power, while reducing fatigue and the risk of injury.

[0012] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0013] The present invention is more clearly understood from the following figures, which show the components and results associated with the present development, as well as the novel features with respect to the state of the art, where the figures are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is solely defined by the attached claims, where:

[0014] Figure 1 shows a view of the axle positions and support points of a bicycle in its original state (Axles A, B, C). State of the art.

[0015] Figure 2 shows a view of the cyclist's position with respect to the axes in the original position. State of the art.

[0016] Figure 3 shows a view of the cyclist's foot position in its original position. State of the art.

[0017] Figure 4 shows a view demonstrating the indirect application of force to the pedal. State of the art.

[0018] Figure 5 corresponds to a view of the location of the new axes in position, support points, proposed by the present invention, (Axes Al, Bl, Cl).

[0019] Figure 6 corresponds to a view that shows the displacement of the foot on the pedal proposed by the present invention.

[0020] Figure 7 shows a view illustrating the position of the foot on the pedal proposed by the present invention. Figure 8 shows a view illustrating the application of direct force from the foot to the pedal of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 9 corresponds to a view that shows the detail of the saddle support and extension mechanism (3) of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 10 corresponds to a view that shows the detail of the handlebar support and extension mechanism (4) of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 11 corresponds to a bottom view of the shoe of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 12 corresponds to a side view of the shoe of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 13 corresponds to a top view of the bicycle pedal mechanism (2) of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 14 corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal mechanism (2) of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 15 shows a top view of the bicycle pedal mechanism (2) of the present invention, including the projection of the heel fins (12). Figure 16 shows a cross-sectional view of the bicycle pedal mechanism (2) of the present invention, including the projection of the heel fins (12) and the projection of the coupling mechanism (11).

[0028] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] The present invention relates to mechanisms for heel-pedaling bicycles, wherein said mechanisms comprise: a pedal shoe (1); a bicycle pedal mechanism (2); a saddle support mechanism (3); and a handlebar support mechanism (4). The saddle support mechanism (3) is an extension and axle-changing mechanism. The handlebar support mechanism (4) is also an extension and axle-changing mechanism.

[0030] Wherein, the shoe (1) includes a coupling mechanism (11) that interacts with the pedal, where said coupling mechanism (11) is located in the heel part, where the shoe (1) includes heel fins (12), preferably two, where the coupling (11) comprises a protruding axle portion (111) and a portion with spheroid geometry (112) that couples to the pedal (2).

[0031] Where the pedal (2) includes a through hole (21) for the insertion of the shoe coupling (11), and wherein the pedal (2) includes clamping or locking mechanisms (22) that retain the spheroidal geometry (112) of the shoe coupling (11), wherein said clamping or locking mechanisms (22) comprise spring-loaded locking mechanisms, preferably four. Where said clamping or locking mechanisms

[0032] (22) are ball-spring mechanisms. Wherein, said pedal (2) includes a pedal axle

[0033] (23), and also includes a face (201) and a face (202), where said faces are symmetrical with respect to each other, allowing the coupling with the shoe to be given from both faces.

[0034] The shoe's attachment (11) is pressed into and removed from the pedal (2), and the heel tabs (12) include a locking stop. These tabs (12) are rotated to both secure the shoe (1) and release it from the pedal (2). Furthermore, their arched shape protects the shoe's attachment (11) and provides better support on the ground.

[0035] The edges of the hole (21) of the pedal (2) have chamfered geometry (211).

[0036] In a desired embodiment of the present invention, the three points of contact of the cyclist are shifted forward (see Figures 1 and 2) to allow force to be exerted directly from the heel, thus avoiding any alteration of the cyclist's relative position with respect to the various points of contact. In this way, the force on the pedal is exerted with the heel, instead of the forefoot. Therefore, given that the body shifts forward, it would be advisable for this shift to also occur in the saddle and handlebars; however, such shifts in the saddle and handlebars will be optional, depending on the ergonomic measurements appropriate for the cyclist.

[0037] It is important to highlight that, according to the measurements taken, the force exerted on the pedal directly with the heel is 25% greater than in traditional pedaling.

[0038] TESTS PERFORMED

[0039] To verify the results of the influence of the change in force physically exerted on another part of the foot by the displacement of parts of the bicycle as mentioned above; field tests were carried out in which the following were used:

[0040] - the shoe and the pedal of the present invention as essential elements.

[0041] - The saddle support mechanism and the handlebar support mechanism as complementary elements.

[0042] The tests were conducted under the same weather conditions each day, over equal distances, and by the same person. The results of the tests are presented below:

[0043] Test No. 1:

[0044] Distance (km)

[0045] Test No. 2:

[0046] Asymmetrical Profile - Alto de Santa Elena (Medellin)

[0047] Distance (km)

[0048] Test No. 3:

[0049] Altimetnco Profile - Loma Escobero (Envigado)

[0050] Test 4.

[0051] Altimetric Profile - Alto de las Palmas (Medellin) Therefore, based on the test results, the technical effect is evident: reducing travel times by between 6% and 16%. Additionally, it is evident that the cyclist's recovery is faster.

[0052] On the other hand, below are a series of useful definitions to clearly understand the present invention; meanwhile, concepts or words that are not found within the definitions should be understood in their broadest sense.

[0053] Cleats: Coupling mechanisms located on bicycle pedals that connect to cycling shoes for better performance.

[0054] Original position: When the expression "original position" is used in the present invention, it refers to the axles in position of traditional bicycles of the state of the art.

[0055] Axes in position: These are axes drawn vertically in a side view of a bicycle, identifying the support points of a cyclist.

[0056] The main advantages of the present invention are:

[0057] • Improve pedaling power by allowing direct power transmission, generating higher chainring-sprocket ratios.

[0058] • Reduces fatigue and improves recovery for cyclists.

[0059] • Improves journey times by up to 16%.

[0060] • It allows the shoe to be attached to the pedal from either side of the pedal, as it is symmetrical.

[0061] • The heel fins of the shoe allow the cyclist to walk.

[0062] Although the foregoing description defines the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the invention is not limited to these; on the contrary, it is also intended to include within the scope of this application all variations or modifications that are evident to those skilled in the art and that do not affect or change the spirit of the invention.

[0063] F. Ascencio ascenciocu@yahoo.es Telephone 57 3017296394 Colombia

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Mechanisms for pedaling bicycles from the heel, CHARACTERIZED IN THAT they comprise: a pedal shoe (1); a bicycle pedal mechanism (2); a saddle support mechanism (3); and a handlebar support mechanism (4).

2. The bicycle pedaling mechanisms from the heel of claim 1 characterized in that the saddle support mechanism (3) is an axle extension and change mechanism; wherein the handlebar support mechanism (4) is an axle extension and change mechanism.

3. The mechanisms for pedaling bicycles from the heel of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shoe (1) includes a coupling mechanism (11) interacting with the pedal, wherein said coupling mechanism (11) is located in the heel part, wherein the shoe (1) includes two heel fins (12), wherein the coupling (11) comprises a protruding shaft portion (111) and a portion with spheroid geometry (112) that is coupled to the pedal (2).

4. The bicycle pedaling mechanisms from the heel of the preceding claims characterized in that the pedal (2) includes a through hole (21) for the entry of the shoe coupling (11) (1), wherein the pedal (2) includes clamping or locking mechanisms (22) that retain the spheroid geometry (112) of the shoe coupling (11) (1), wherein said clamping or locking mechanisms (22) comprise four spring-locking mechanisms.

5. The mechanisms for pedaling bicycles from the heel of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pedal (2) includes a pedal axle (23), and furthermore It includes a face (201) and a face (202), wherein said faces are symmetrical with respect to each other.

6. The mechanisms for pedaling bicycles from the heel of the preceding claims characterized in that the clamping or locking mechanisms (22) are ball spring mechanisms.

7. The mechanisms for pedaling bicycles from the heel of the preceding claims characterized in that the shoe coupling (11) (1) is inserted and removed from the pedal (2) by pressure, wherein the fins (12) include a locking stop.

8. The mechanisms for pedaling bicycles from the heel of the preceding claims characterized in that the edges of the hole (21) of the pedal (2) have chamfered geometry (211).

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