CN107776814B

CN107776814B - Bicycle operating device

Info

Publication number: CN107776814B
Application number: CN201710735846.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 驹田耕之
Original assignee: Shimano Inc
Current assignee: Shimano Inc
Priority date: 2016-08-26
Filing date: 2017-08-24
Publication date: 2021-08-27
Anticipated expiration: 2037-08-24
Also published as: TWI694945B; IT201700095742A1; CN107776814A; TW201806814A; DE102017007568A1

Abstract

The bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a piston and an electrical switch. The base member includes a first end to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar, a second end opposite the first end, and a cylinder bore. The operating member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end is pivotably coupled to the base member about a pivot axis. The distal portion is further from the proximal portion than the pivot axis. A piston is movably disposed in the cylinder bore and is operatively coupled to the operating member for movement therein in response to pivotal movement of the operating member. An electrical switch is disposed at the second end. The electrical switch is further from the distal end portion of the operating member than the pivot axis.

Description

Bicycle operating device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a bicycle operating device.

Background

Bicycling is becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover, bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for recreation, transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is constantly improving the various components of the bicycle. The operating device is a bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned.

Disclosure of Invention

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a piston and an electrical switch. The base member includes a first end to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar, a second end opposite the first end, and a cylinder bore. The operating member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end is pivotably coupled to the base member about a pivot axis. The distal portion is further from the proximal portion than the pivot axis. A piston is movably disposed in the cylinder bore and is operatively coupled to the operating member for movement therein in response to pivotal movement of the operating member. An electrical switch is disposed at the second end. The electrical switch is further from the distal end portion of the operating member than the pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect, the second end can be utilized as a location for setting the electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be improved.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a piston and an electrical switch. The base member includes a first end to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar, a second end opposite the first end, and a cylinder bore. The operating member is pivotably coupled to the base member about a pivot axis. A piston is movably disposed in the cylinder bore and is operatively coupled to the operating member for movement therein in response to pivotal movement of the operating member. The electrical switch is disposed directly at the second end without the intermediary of a movable intermediate member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the second aspect, the second end can be utilized as a region of the electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be improved.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the first or second aspect is configured such that the electrical switch is farther from the first end than the pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the third aspect, a region that is farther from the first end than the pivot axis can be utilized as a region of the electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be further improved.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the base member includes a grip portion disposed between the first end and the second end.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect, the rider can grip the grip. This allows the rider to easily operate the electrical switch.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured such that the electrical switch is farther from the first end than the cylinder bore.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fifth aspect, a region that is farther from the first end than the cylinder bore can be utilized as a region of the electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be further improved.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured such that the base member includes a storage bore connected to the cylinder bore. The electrical switch is further from the first end than the reservoir bore.

With the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect, a region that is further from the first end than the reservoir chamber can be utilized as a region of the electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be further improved.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the storage bore is disposed above the cylinder bore in a mounted state of the base member to the bicycle handlebar.

With the bicycle operating device according to the seventh aspect, the area disposed above the cylinder bore can be utilized as the area of the storage bore. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be further improved.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the sixth or seventh aspect is configured such that the base member includes a drain port connected to the storage chamber.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eighth aspect, the hydraulic fluid can be discharged from the reservoir chamber via the discharge port. Therefore, the maintenance of the bicycle operating device can be improved.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that the base member includes a rounded head portion provided at the second end portion. An electrical switch is provided at the rounded head.

With the bicycle operating device according to the ninth aspect, the rounded head can be utilized as a region of the electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be further improved.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the electrical switch includes a user operating part that faces forward and upward in a mounted state of the base member to the bicycle handlebar.

With the bicycle operating device according to the tenth aspect, the operability of the electric switch can be improved.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the ninth or tenth aspect is configured such that the first end portion defines a first end surface configured to contact a bicycle handlebar. The rounded head defines a second end face that is furthest from the first end face. The electrical switch includes a user operating portion disposed in the second end face.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the degree of freedom in design of the bicycle operating device can be improved by improving the operability of the electrical switch.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects further includes a controller electrically connected to the electrical switch to generate the control signal based on operation of the electrical switch.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect, an electrical switch can be used to operate the electrical device.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the electrical switch is provided on the controller.

With the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the electrical switch and the controller can be used as a single unit.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect is configured such that the electrical switch is farther from the first end than the controller.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, a region that is farther from the first end than the controller can be utilized as a region of the electrical switch. Even if the controller is provided in the bicycle operating device, the rider is allowed to easily operate the electric switch.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the twelfth to fourteenth aspects further includes an additional electrical switch provided at one of the base member and the operating member. The additional electrical switch is electrically connected to the controller.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, an additional electrical switch can be used to operate the additional device.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect is configured such that the additional electrical switch is provided at the operating member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the operating member can be utilized as a region of the additional electrical switch. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device can be further improved.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the twelfth to sixteenth aspects further comprises a cable connector provided at one of the base member and the operating member. The cable connector is electrically connected to the controller.

With the bicycle operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, the at least one electrical device can be electrically connected to the controller via the cable connector.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the seventeenth aspect is configured such that the cable connector is provided at the base member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, the base member can be utilized as an area of the cable connector.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the twelfth to eighteenth aspects further comprises a wireless communicator provided at one of the base member and the operating member. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the controller.

With the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, the electrical device can be operated wirelessly using an electrical switch or other electrical switch.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects is configured such that the cylinder bore has a cylinder center axis. The electrical switch includes a user operated portion movable relative to the base member along an operating axis defined to be non-coincident with the cylinder central axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect, the electrical switch can be easily operated using the user operating part.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect is configured such that the operating axis is inclined with respect to the cylinder center axis when viewed along the pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-first aspect, the degree of freedom in design of the bicycle operating device can be improved by changing the inclination angle of the operating axis with respect to the cylinder center axis.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect is configured such that an inclination angle defined between the operating axis and the cylinder center axis is equal to or less than 45 degrees when viewed along the pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-second aspect, the degree of freedom in design of the bicycle operating device can be further improved by maintaining the operability of the electrical switch.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the twentieth to twenty-second aspects is configured such that the operating axis is offset from the cylinder center axis when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-third aspect, the position of the electrical switch can be adapted to one of the right hand and the left hand. This further improves the operability of the electric switch.

In accordance with a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-third aspects is configured such that the operating member is operatively coupled to the piston to pull the piston from the initial position to the actuated position in response to pivotal movement of the operating member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the electrical switch can be applied to a bicycle operating device that includes a pull-type hydraulic unit.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-third aspects is configured such that the operating member is operatively coupled to the piston to urge the piston from the initial position to the actuated position in response to pivotal movement of the operating member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fifth aspect, the electrical switch can be applied to a bicycle operating device that includes a push-type hydraulic unit.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-fifth aspects is configured such that the pivot axis is farther from the first end than the cylinder bore.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-sixth aspect, the second end portion can be made compact, thereby achieving an attractive appearance.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-sixth aspects is configured such that the cylinder bore is disposed between the pivot axis and the first end portion.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-seventh aspect, the second end portion can be made compact, thereby achieving an attractive appearance.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-seventh aspects further comprises a grip cover attached to the base member to at least partially cover the base member. The electrical switch is covered by the grip cover to be operated via the grip cover.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-eighth aspect, the electrical switch can be protected from becoming dirty.

Drawings

A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle operating device in accordance with a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device taken along the line IV-IV of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1 with the base member omitted.

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device taken along the line VII-VII of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the bicycle operating device in accordance with the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the bicycle operating device in accordance with the third embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the bicycle operating device in accordance with the fourth embodiment.

Detailed Description

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements in the various drawings.

First embodiment

Referring initially to fig. 1, a bicycle operating device 10 in accordance with a first embodiment is configured to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar 2. In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured to be mounted to a drop handlebar. However, the structure of the bicycle operating device 10 can be applied to other operating devices mounted to other types of handlebars, such as a flat handlebar, a chronograph handlebar, and a horn handlebar.

The bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to at least one device to operate the at least one device. In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to a hydraulic bicycle component BC1 such as a hydraulic brake device. The bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via the hydraulic hose 4.

As seen in fig. 2, the bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to an electrical device BC2 and an attachment BC 3. Examples of electrical devices BC2 include bicycle seatpost, bicycle suspension, bicycle gearshift, bicycle computer and smart phone. Examples of the additional device BC3 include electrical and mechanical components. Examples of electrical components include bicycle seat posts, bicycle suspensions, bicycle shifters, bicycle computers, and smart phones. Examples of mechanical components include bicycle seat posts, bicycle suspensions, and bicycle shifters. In the present embodiment, the electric device BC2 comprises a bicycle seatpost and the additional device BC3 comprises a bicycle shifting device. The bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to the electrical device BC2 and the attachment BC3 via the electrical control cable 6. The bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to the electrical device BC2 and the attachment BC3 via separate electrical control cables extending from the bicycle operating device 10, respectively. In the case where the attachment BC3 includes a mechanical shifting device, the bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to the attachment BC3 via a mechanical control cable. Further, the bicycle operating device 10 can be operatively coupled to at least one of the electrical device BC2 and the attachment BC3 via wireless communication. The additional device BC3 may be omitted if needed and/or desired.

In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is a right hand side operating/control device that is configured to be operated by the right hand of the rider to actuate the hydraulic bicycle component BC 1. However, the structure of the bicycle operating device 10 can be applied to a left hand side operating device.

In the present application, the following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward" and "downward" as well as other similar directional terms refer to those directions determined based on a user (e.g., a rider) seated on a saddle (not shown) of a bicycle and facing the bicycle handlebar 2. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle operating device 10 should be interpreted relative to a bicycle equipped with the bicycle operating device 10 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

As seen in fig. 1 and 2, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a base member 12 and an operating member 14. The base member 12 includes a first end 16 to be mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2. The base member 12 includes a second end 18 opposite the first end 16. In the present embodiment, the base member 12 includes a grip portion 20 and a round head portion 21. The grip 20 is disposed between the first end 16 and the second end 18. A round head 21 is provided at the second end 18. In the mounted state of the base member 12 to the bicycle handlebar 2, the round head 21 extends forward and upward from the grip portion 20. At least one of the grip 20 and the round head 21 may be omitted from the base member 12.

The first end portion 16 defines a first end surface 16A configured to contact the bicycle handlebar 2. The rounded head 21 defines a second end face 21A (fig. 3) that is furthest from the first end face 16A. In the present embodiment, the first end face 16A has a curved surface, and the second end face 21A has a flat surface. However, the shapes of the first end portion 16 and the second end portion 18 are not limited to the present embodiment.

The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a mounting structure 22 to mount the first end portion 16 to the bicycle handlebar 2. The mounting structure 22 is a stationary member when mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2. The mounting structure 22 preferably includes a belt clip 24 and a fastening member 26. The fastening member 26 is coupled to the band clamp 24 and includes a mounting bolt 27 (fig. 1) to clamp the bicycle handlebar 2 between the band clamp 24 and the first end 16. The mounting structure 22 may include other structures similar to the belt clip 24, and other structures used in road shifters for mounting to drop down handlebars.

The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a grip cover 28 attached to the base member 12 to at least partially cover the base member 12. The grip cover 28 is made of a non-metallic material such as rubber. The rider sometimes grips the base member 12 (e.g., grip 20) and rests on the base member 12 (e.g., grip 20) during riding. The grip cover 28 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10.

As shown in fig. 3, the operating member 14 is provided as a rod extending in the longitudinal direction. The operating member 14 includes a proximal end portion 14A and a distal end portion 14B. The proximal end portion 14A is pivotably coupled to the base member 12 about a pivot axis a 1. The distal end portion 14B is farther from the proximal end portion 14A than the pivot axis a1 in the longitudinal direction of the operating member 14. In the operating member 14, the distal end portion 14B is farthest from the proximal end portion 14A, and the distal end portion 14B constitutes a free end of the operating member 14.

The operating member 14 is pivotable relative to the base member 12 about a pivot axis a1 between a rest position P11 and an operating position P12. The bicycle operating device 10 includes a pivot axle 30 that defines a pivot axis a 1. The pivot axle 30 pivotally couples the operating member 14 to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the rest position P11 and the operating position P12 are defined by the pivot axis a1 and the distal end 14B.

In the present application, the term "rest position" used herein refers to a position at which a movable portion such as the operating member 14 is held fixed in a state in which the movable portion is not operated by a user. The term "operating position" as used herein refers to a position in which the movable portion has been operated by a user to perform an operation of a bicycle component, such as the hydraulic bicycle component BC 1.

As shown in fig. 4, the base member 12 includes a cylinder bore 32. The cylinder bore 32 has a cylinder center axis a 2. The cylinder bore 32 extends along a cylinder center axis a 2. The cylinder bore 32 is connected to the first end face 16A of the first end portion 16. The cylinder bore 32 is disposed between the pivot axis a1 and the first end 16. The pivot axis a1 is further from the first end 16 than the cylinder bore 32.

The bicycle operating device 10 includes a piston 34 movably disposed in a cylinder bore 32. The piston 34 is movable relative to the cylinder bore 32 along a cylinder center axis A2. The piston 34 is operatively coupled to the operating member 14 to move in the cylinder bore 32 in response to pivotal movement of the operating member 14. The operating member 14 is operatively coupled to the piston 34 to pull the piston 34 from the initial position P21 to the actuated position P22 in response to pivotal movement of the operating member 14. The initial position P21 corresponds to the rest position P11 of the operating member 14. The actuating position P22 corresponds to the operating position P12 of the operating member 14.

The bicycle operating device 10 includes a first seal ring 36 and a second seal ring 38. A first seal ring 36 and a second seal ring 38 are attached to the piston 34. The first seal ring 36 is spaced from the second seal ring 38 along the cylinder central axis a 2.

The bicycle operating device 10 includes a piston rod 40 and a third sealing ring 42. The piston rod 40 is coupled to the piston 34 and extends from the piston 34 toward an opposite side of the first end 16 relative to the piston 34. In the present embodiment, although the piston rod 40 is provided integrally with the piston 34 as a one-piece, unitary member, the piston rod 40 may be a member separate from the piston 34. The base member 12 includes a through hole 44 coupled to the cylinder bore 32. The piston rod 40 is movably disposed in the through hole 44. The third seal ring 42 is disposed in the through hole 44. The cylinder bore 32, the piston 34, the first seal ring 36, and the third seal ring 42 define a hydraulic chamber 46. The hydraulic chamber 46 is filled with a hydraulic fluid such as mineral oil.

As seen in fig. 5, the bicycle operating device 10 includes an outlet 48, the outlet 48 being connected to the cylinder bore 32 to supply hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic bicycle component BC 1. The base member 12 includes an outlet passage 49 connecting the hydraulic chamber 46 to the outlet 48. The hydraulic chamber 46 is connected to the hydraulic hose 4 via an outlet channel 49 and an outlet 48.

As shown in fig. 4, the base member 12 includes a storage bore 50 connected to the cylinder bore 32. The reservoir bore 50 extends along a cylinder center axis a 2. The bicycle operating device 10 includes a diaphragm 52 and a cover 54. A diaphragm 52 is provided in the storage chamber 50 to be elastically deformable in the storage chamber 50. The cover 54 is secured to the base member 12 to cover the open end of the storage chamber 50. In the present embodiment, the cover 54 is fixed to the base member 12 by a fixing member 56. The reservoir chamber 50, the diaphragm 52 and the cover 54 constitute a hydraulic reservoir 58. The reservoir 50 and the diaphragm 52 define a reservoir chamber 60. The reservoir 60 is filled with a hydraulic fluid such as mineral oil.

In the present embodiment, the reservoir bore 50 is disposed above the cylinder bore 32 in a mounted state of the base member 12 to the bicycle handlebar 2. The storage bore 50 is farther from the distal end portion 14B than the cylinder bore 32. However, the position of the storage chamber 50 is not limited to the present embodiment. The reservoir 50 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10.

The base member 12 includes a communication hole 62. In a state where the piston 34 is positioned at the initial position P21, the communication hole 62 connects the reservoir chamber 60 with the hydraulic pressure chamber 46. When the piston 34 moves from the initial position P21 toward the actuated position P22, the first seal ring 36 interrupts communication between the hydraulic chamber 46 and the reservoir chamber 60 via the communication hole 62. The hydraulic reservoir 58 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10 or can be provided at the hydraulic bicycle component BC 1.

As shown in fig. 4, the base member 12 includes a drain 64 connected to the reservoir 50. In the present embodiment, the drain port 64 includes a threaded bore 66. The threaded bore 66 connects the storage chamber 50 to the outer surface of the base member 12. The bicycle operating device 10 includes a drain plug 68. A drain plug 68 is threadably engaged with the threaded bore 66. The drain 64 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10.

The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a piston biasing member 70 to bias the piston 34 from the actuating position P22 toward the initial position P21. In the present embodiment, the piston biasing member 70 is disposed outside the cylinder bore 32. A piston biasing member 70 is disposed in the second end 18. However, the piston biasing member 70 may be disposed at a location other than the second end 18. A piston biasing member 70 may be disposed in the cylinder bore 32.

As shown in fig. 6, the piston biasing member 70 includes a first biasing element 72 and a second biasing element 74. Although the first and

second biasing elements

72, 74 are torsion coil springs in the present embodiment, the first and

second biasing elements

72, 74 may be other biasing elements, such as compression coil springs.

The bicycle operating device 10 includes a first support shaft 76 and a second support shaft 78. The first support shaft 76 is fixed to the base member 12 (fig. 4) and extends in an axial direction D1 that is parallel to the pivot axis a1 of the operating member 14. The second support shaft 78 is fixed to the base member 12 (fig. 4), and extends in the axial direction D1. The first and

second biasing elements

72, 74 are mounted on a first support shaft 76. The bicycle operating device 10 includes a coupling shaft 80, the coupling shaft 80 being coupled to one end of the piston rod 40. The coupling shaft 80 extends in the axial direction D1. As shown in fig. 1 and 3, the base member 12 includes a first guide groove 81A and a second guide groove 81B. The coupling shaft 80 is movably disposed in the first guide groove 81A and the second guide groove 81B. Each of the first and

second biasing elements

72, 74 engages the first support shaft 76 and the coupling shaft 80 to bias the piston 34 toward an initial position P21 (fig. 4).

As shown in fig. 4 and 6, the operating member 14 includes an operating lever or body 82 and a central body 84. The proximal end portion 14A and the distal end portion 14B are provided on the operating lever 82. The intermediate body 84 is a separate member from the operation lever 82. The lever 82 and the intermediate body 84 are pivotably coupled to the base member 12 about a pivot axis a1 via the pivot axle 30. The lever 82 and the intermediate body 84 are rotatable relative to each other about a pivot axis a 1. In the present embodiment, the operating lever 82 includes a proximal end portion 14A and a distal end portion 14B. Namely, the rest position P11 and the operating position P12 are defined by the operating lever 82. The intermediate body 84 is engaged with the coupling shaft 80 to transmit the operating force applied to the operating lever 82.

As seen in fig. 4, the bicycle operating device 10 includes the first adjusting member 86 to change the rest position P11 of the operating member 14 relative to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the first regulation member 86 is mounted to the operating member 14. The first regulation member 86 is attached to the intermediate body 84 of the operating member 14. The central body 84 includes a first threaded aperture 88. The first adjustment member 86 includes an adjustment screw and is threadedly engaged with the first threaded bore 88. One end of the first regulation member 86 is in contact with the operating lever 82. Rotation of the first adjustment member 86 relative to the intermediate body 84 changes the position of the operating lever 82 relative to the intermediate body 84. This changes the rest position P11 of the operating member 14 without changing the initial position P21 of the piston 34.

As seen in fig. 6, the bicycle operating device 10 includes the second adjusting member 90 to change the initial position P21 (fig. 4) of the piston 34 relative to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the second adjustment member 90 comprises an adjustment screw mounted to the base member 12 (fig. 4). The second adjustment member 90 is threadedly engaged with a first threaded bore (not shown) of the base member 12 (fig. 4). One end of the second regulation member 90 is in contact with the intermediate body 84. Rotation of the second adjustment member 90 changes the position of the intermediate body 84 relative to the base member 12. This changes the initial position P21 of the piston 34 and further changes the rest position P11 of the operating member 14.

As seen in fig. 6, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a lever biasing member 92 to bias the operating lever 82 relative to the intermediate body 84 to maintain contact between the first adjusting member 86 (fig. 4) and the operating lever 82. The lever biasing member 92 is attached to the operating member 14. Although the lever biasing member 92 is a torsion coil spring in the present embodiment, the lever biasing member 92 may be other biasing elements, such as a compression coil spring.

As seen in fig. 7, the bicycle operating device 10 includes an electrical switch 94 disposed at the second end 18. In the present embodiment, the electric switch 94 is provided at the round head 21. An electrical switch 94 is attached to the second end 18 (e.g., the round head 21). However, the position of the electric switch 94 is not limited to the present embodiment. The electrical switch 94 is disposed directly at the second end 18 without a movable intermediate member. The electrical switch 94 includes a user operating portion 96. In the mounted state (fig. 4) of the base member 12 to the bicycle handlebar 2, the user operating portion 96 faces forward and upward. The user operating portion 96 is disposed in the second end face 21A. The user operation portion 96 protrudes from the second end face 21A. In the present embodiment, the electrical switch 94 is disposed in the recess 18A of the second end 18 of the base member 12. The electrical switch 94 is covered by the grip cover 28 to be operated via the grip cover 28. The user operating portion 96 is covered by the grip cover 28 to be pushed via the grip cover 28. However, the user operating portion 96 may be exposed from the grip cover 28. The user operating portion 96 may be omitted from the electrical switch 94.

As shown in fig. 7, the user operating part 96 is movable relative to the base member 12 along an operating axis A3 defined so as not to coincide with the cylinder central axis a 2. In the present embodiment, the operating axis A3 is not parallel to the cylinder center axis a 2. However, the operating axis A3 may be parallel to the cylinder center axis a 2. The operating axis A3 may be defined to coincide with the cylinder center axis a 2.

The operating axis A3 is inclined with respect to the cylinder central axis a2 when viewed along the pivot axis a 1. The inclination angle AG defined between the operating axis A3 and the cylinder central axis a2 is equal to or less than 45 degrees when viewed along the pivot axis a 1. As shown in fig. 5, the operating axis A3 is offset from the cylinder central axis a2 when viewed in a direction D2 (fig. 7) perpendicular to the pivot axis a 1. The operating axis A3 is parallel to the cylinder central axis a2 when viewed in a direction D2 (fig. 7) perpendicular to the pivot axis a 1. However, the operating axis A3 may not be parallel to the cylinder central axis a2 when viewed in the direction D2 (fig. 7) perpendicular to the pivot axis a 1.

As shown in fig. 3, the electrical switch 94 is farther from the distal end portion 14B of the operating member 14 than the pivot axis a 1. The electrical switch 94 is further from the first end 16 than the pivot axis a 1. The electrical switch 94 is further from the first end 16 than the cylinder bore 32. The electrical switch 94 is further from the first end 16 than the reservoir bore 50. However, the position of the electric switch 94 is not limited to the present embodiment.

As seen in fig. 8, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes a controller 98 electrically connected to the electrical switch 94 to generate a control signal based on operation of the electrical switch 94. Examples of control signals include control signals that control a bicycle seat post, a bicycle suspension, a bicycle shifter, a cycle computer, and a smartphone. The controller 98 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10 or can be provided at a device other than the bicycle operating device 10.

As shown in fig. 7, the electric switch 94 is provided on the controller 98. The controller 98 is attached to the second end 18 (e.g., the round head 21). The controller 98 is disposed in the recess 18A of the second end 18 of the base member 12. As shown in fig. 4, the electrical switch 94 is further from the first end 16 than the controller 98.

As shown in fig. 8, the controller 98 includes a processor 98A, a memory 98B, and a substrate 98C. The processor 98A and the memory 98B are electrically mounted on the substrate 98C. The processor 98A is electrically connected to the memory 98B via the substrate 98C. Processor 98A includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU). The memory 98B stores programs and other information. The memory 98B includes a Read Only Memory (ROM) and a Random Access Memory (RAM). For example, a program stored in memory 98B is read into processor 98A to perform several functions of controller 98. The electrical switch 94 is electrically mounted on the base plate 98C. The electrical switch 94 is electrically connected to the processor 98A via the substrate 98C. As shown in fig. 7, the base plate 98C is fixed to the second end portion 18 (e.g., the round head portion 21).

The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a cable connector 100 disposed at one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14. In the present embodiment, the cable connector 100 is provided at the base member 12. However, the cable connector 100 may be provided at the operating member 14. The cable connector 100 is electrically connected to the controller 98 via a control cable 102. The cable connector 100 includes a connection port 104 (fig. 2) to removably receive the electrical control cable 6 to electrically connect the electrical control cable 6 to the controller 98. The cable connector 100 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10 or provided on a device other than the bicycle operating device 10.

Controller 98 is electrically connected to electric device BC2 and additional device BC3 via electric control cable 6 using Power line communication (Power line communication) technology. Power Line Communication (PLC) carries data on conductors that are also used simultaneously for power transmission or distribution to electrical device BC2 and additional device BC 3. The controller 98 includes a PLC controller 98D. The PLC controller 98D receives input signals generated by the electrical switch 94. The PLC controller 98D superimposes the input signal on the power supply voltage flowing in the electric control cable 6. The power supply voltage is supplied from the battery BT via the electric control cable 6.

As seen in fig. 1, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes an additional electrical switch 106 disposed at one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14. In the present embodiment, an additional electric switch 106 is provided at the operating member 14. The additional electrical switch 106 receives one of a user upshift input and a user downshift input. However, the additional electrical switch 106 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10.

The bicycle operating device 10 further includes an additional electrical switch 108 disposed at one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14. In the present embodiment, an additional electric switch 108 is provided at the operating member 14. The additional electrical switch 108 receives the other of the user upshift input and the user downshift input. However, the additional electrical switch 108 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10.

As shown in fig. 8, an additional electrical switch 106 is electrically connected to the controller 98. An additional electrical switch 108 is electrically connected to the controller 98. In this embodiment, the additional

electrical switches

106 and 108 are electrically connected to the controller 98 via a control cable 110. The controller 98 generates an upshift control signal and a downshift control signal based on a user upshift input and a user downshift input, respectively. The controller 98 may be configured to control the individual devices in response to control signals generated based on the electrical switch 94, the additional electrical switch 106, and the additional electrical switch 108, respectively. The controller 98 may be configured to control a device in response to control signals generated based on at least two of the electrical switch 94, the additional electrical switch 106, and the additional electrical switch 108.

With the bicycle operating device 10, the second end 18 can be utilized as a location to set the electrical switch 94. Thus, the degree of freedom in designing the bicycle operating device 10 can be improved.

Second embodiment

Hereinafter, a bicycle operating device 210 of a second embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 9 to 11. The bicycle operating device 210 has the same structure and/or construction as the bicycle operating device 10, except for the wireless communicator. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as in the first embodiment will be numbered identically herein and will not be described and/or illustrated in detail for the sake of brevity.

As seen in fig. 9 to 11, the bicycle operating device 210 further includes a wireless communicator 299 (fig. 10) disposed at one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14. In this embodiment, a wireless communicator 299 is disposed at the base member 12. However, the wireless communicator 299 may be provided at the operating member 14. The wireless communicator 299 is electrically connected to the controller 98.

As shown in fig. 11, the wireless communicator 299 includes a signal generating circuit 299A, a signal transmitting circuit 299B, an antenna 299C, and a signal receiving circuit 299D. The signal generating circuit 299A, the signal transmitting circuit 299B, the antenna 299C, and the signal receiving circuit 299D are electrically mounted on a substrate 98C of the controller 98. The signal generation circuit 299A generates a wireless signal based on the control signal generated by the controller 98. The signal generating circuit 299A superimposes a digital signal on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to generate a wireless signal. The signal transmitting circuit 299B transmits a wireless signal via the antenna 299C in response to an input operation received by the electric switch 94. In this embodiment, the signal generation circuit 299A may encrypt control information (e.g., shift information) to generate an encrypted wireless signal. The signal generation circuit 299A encrypts the digital signal stored in the memory 98B using the encryption key. The signal transmitting circuit 299B transmits the encrypted wireless signal. Therefore, when the electric switch 94 is closed to be activated by the input operation, the wireless communicator 299 wirelessly transmits a wireless signal to upshift or downshift the electric device BC 2.

Further, the signal receiving circuit 299D receives a wireless signal from the electric device BC2 via the antenna 299C. In the present embodiment, the signal receiving circuit 299D decodes the wireless signal to identify information wirelessly transmitted from the electrical device BC 2. The signal receiving circuit 299D may decrypt the encrypted wireless signal using the encryption key. That is, the wireless communicator 299 is configured to transmit wireless signals to control other electrical components and receive wireless signals to identify information from other electrical components. In other words, the wireless communicator 299 is provided as a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver. In the present embodiment, the wireless communicator 299 is integrally provided as a single module or unit. However, the wireless communicator 299 may be constituted by a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver disposed at different positions from each other as separate modules or units. The signal receiving circuit 299D may be omitted from the wireless communicator 299.

In the present embodiment, as shown in fig. 9 and 11, the battery BT is mounted to the base member 12 and is electrically connected to the controller 98 via a control cable 102. In this embodiment, the battery holder BT1 is mounted to the base member 12 and is electrically connected to the control cable 102 and the cable connector 100. Battery BT is attached to battery holder BT1 and is electrically connected to controller 98 via battery holder BT1 and control cable 102. The battery BT may be electrically connected to another device via the cable connector 100.

With the bicycle operating device 210, substantially the same effects as the bicycle operating device 10 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Third embodiment

A bicycle operating device 310 in accordance with a third embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 12. The bicycle operating device 310 has the same structure and/or configuration as the bicycle operating device 10, except that the piston 34 is pushed to generate hydraulic pressure. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as in the embodiments described above will be numbered identically herein and will not be described and/or illustrated in detail for the sake of brevity.

As seen in fig. 12, in the bicycle operating device 310, the operating member 14 is operatively coupled to the piston 34 to urge the piston 34 from the initial position P321 to the actuating position P322 in response to the pivotal movement of the operating member 14.

With the bicycle operating device 310, substantially the same effects as the bicycle operating device 10 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

Fourth embodiment

A bicycle operating device 410 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 13. The bicycle operating device 410 has the same structure and/or configuration as the bicycle operating device 10, except for the base member 12. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as in the embodiments described above will be numbered identically herein and will not be described and/or illustrated in detail for the sake of brevity.

As seen in fig. 13, the bicycle operating device 410 includes a base member 412. The base member 412 has substantially the same structure as the base member 12 of the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, the base member 412 is configured as a secondary handle 402A to be mounted to the bicycle handlebar 402. The base member 412 includes a first end 416 to be mounted to the bicycle handlebar 402. The base member 412 includes a second end 418 opposite the first end 416. An electrical switch 94 is provided at the second end 418. The electrical switch 94 is further from the distal end portion 14B of the operating member 14 than the pivot axis a 1. An additional electrical switch 106 is provided at the base member 412. The additional electrical switch 108 is omitted from the bicycle operating device 410.

With the bicycle operating device 410, substantially the same effects as the bicycle operating device 10 of the first embodiment can be obtained.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from this disclosure that the configurations of the above-described embodiments (including variations) can be at least partially combined with each other, if needed and/or desired.

For example, the wireless communicator 299 of the second embodiment can be applied to the bicycle operating device 310 of the third embodiment and the bicycle operating device 410 of the fourth embodiment.

The push-type hydraulic unit described in the third embodiment can be applied to the bicycle operating device 210 of the second embodiment and the bicycle operating device 410 of the fourth embodiment.

Furthermore, the structures of the

bicycle operating devices

10, 210 and 310 of the first to third embodiments can be applied to the bicycle operating device 410 of the fourth embodiment.

As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," and derivatives thereof, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "having," "including," and their derivatives.

The terms "member," "section," "portion," "element," "body" and "structure," when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

Ordinals such as "first" and "second" recited in this application are merely identifiers and do not have any other meaning, such as a particular order, etc. Further, for example, the term "first element" does not itself connote the presence of a "second element," and the term "second element" does not itself connote the presence of a "first element.

As used herein, the term "pair" may encompass configurations in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other, except for configurations in which the pair of elements have the same shape or structure as each other.

The terms "a" or "an", "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein.

Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A bicycle operating device comprising:

a base member comprising

A first end portion to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar,

a second end portion opposite to the first end portion, an

A cylinder bore;

an operating member comprising

A proximal end portion pivotably coupled to the base member about a pivot axis, an

A distal portion further from the proximal portion than the pivot axis;

a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore and operatively coupled to the operating member to move in the cylinder bore in response to pivotal movement of the operating member;

an electrical switch disposed at the second end, the electrical switch being further from the distal end of the operating member than the pivot axis; and

a controller electrically connected to the electrical switch to generate a control signal based on operation of the electrical switch; wherein

The cylinder bore is disposed between the pivot axis and the first end, and the electrical switch is further from the first end than the cylinder bore.

2. A bicycle operating device comprising:

a base member comprising

A first end portion to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar,

a second end portion opposite to the first end portion, an

A cylinder bore;

an operating member pivotably coupled to the base member about a pivot axis;

an electrical switch disposed directly at the second end without a movable intermediate member; and

3. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The electrical switch is further from the first end than the pivot axis.

4. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The base member includes a grip portion disposed between the first end and the second end.

5. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The base member includes a storage bore connected to the cylinder bore, and

the electrical switch is further from the first end than the storage bore.

6. The bicycle operating device according to claim 5, wherein

The storage bore is disposed above the cylinder bore in a mounted state of the base member to the bicycle handlebar.

7. The bicycle operating device according to claim 5, wherein

The base member includes a drain connected to the storage bore.

8. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The base member includes a rounded head disposed at the second end, and

the electrical switch is disposed at the round head.

9. The bicycle operating device of claim 8, wherein

The electrical switch includes a user operating portion that faces forward and upward in a mounted state of the base member to the bicycle handlebar.

10. The bicycle operating device of claim 8, wherein

The first end portion defines a first end surface configured to contact the bicycle handlebar,

the rounded head defines a second end face that is furthest from the first end face, an

The electrical switch includes a user operating portion disposed in the second end face.

11. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The electric switch is arranged on the controller.

12. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The electrical switch is further from the first end than the controller.

13. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, further comprising

An additional electrical switch disposed at one of the base member and the operating member, the additional electrical switch being electrically connected to the controller.

14. The bicycle operating device of claim 13, wherein

The additional electrical switch is provided at the operating member.

15. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, further comprising

A cable connector provided at one of the base member and the operating member, the cable connector being electrically connected to the controller.

16. The bicycle operating device of claim 15, wherein

The cable connector is disposed at the base member.

17. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, further comprising

A wireless communicator disposed at one of the base member and the operating member, the wireless communicator being electrically connected to the controller.

18. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The cylinder bore has a cylinder center axis, and

the electrical switch includes a user operated portion movable relative to the base member along an operating axis defined to be non-coincident with the cylinder central axis.

19. The bicycle operating device of claim 18, wherein

The operating axis is inclined with respect to the cylinder central axis when viewed along the pivot axis.

20. The bicycle operating device of claim 18, wherein

An inclination angle defined between the operation axis and the cylinder center axis is equal to or less than 45 degrees when viewed along the pivot axis.

21. The bicycle operating device of claim 18, wherein

The operating axis is offset from the cylinder central axis when viewed perpendicular to the pivot axis.

22. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The operating member is operably coupled to the piston to pull the piston from an initial position to an actuated position in response to pivotal movement of the operating member.

23. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The operating member is operably coupled to the piston to urge the piston from an initial position to an actuated position in response to pivotal movement of the operating member.

24. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, wherein

The pivot axis is further from the first end than the cylinder bore.

25. The bicycle operating device of claim 1, further comprising

A grip cover attached to the base member to at least partially cover the base member, wherein

The electrical switch is covered by the grip cover to be operated via the grip cover.

26. A bicycle operating device comprising:

a base member comprising

A first end portion to be mounted to a bicycle handlebar,

a second end portion opposite to the first end portion, an

A cylinder bore;

an operating member comprising

A distal portion further from the proximal portion than the pivot axis;

an electrical switch disposed at the second end, the electrical switch being further from the distal end of the operating member than the pivot axis, and the electrical switch being further from the first end than the cylinder bore; and