TWI905088B - Handle sleeve - Google Patents

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a grip sleeve, which comprises a hollow tube body and a cover body. One side ofthe hollow tube body is internally provided with a first base and a second base which are arranged oppositely. A hollow window is respectively arranged between the first base and the second base, and each hollow window is provided with another slot. The other side of the hollow tube body is provided with a first opening for a frame handle to be inserted into the hollow tube body from the first opening. The slots are used for inserting the first electronic component fixed in an axial direction, and the first base and the second base are used for holding the second electronic component in a radial direction. A cover body is used to cover the hollow tube body and lock the hollow tube body on the handle of the frame.

Description

Grip covers

This invention relates to a grip structure, and more particularly to a grip sleeve that can be inserted into a bicycle frame handlebar.

Besides the gear mechanism and frame, the handlebars are also an important element of a bicycle. In addition to direct contact with the rider's body, many bicycle models allow the upper body weight to be directly applied to the handlebars through the arms during riding. A good handlebar can enhance the riding experience.

However, most grips currently on the market are one-piece molded and fitted onto the frame handlebars. To meet the diverse needs of different customers, separate molds must be created, undoubtedly increasing material costs significantly, and offering limited functional applications.

In addition, some manufacturers have added an electronic module to the end of the grip for lighting effects or specific applications. However, structurally, these are mostly unrelated to the grip structure itself; they are two separate components, at best merely accessories locked to the grip, unnecessarily increasing manufacturing costs.

Therefore, the question of whether there is a grip-on-grip structure that can be customized and mass-produced to adapt to a wider range of applications, without requiring complex wiring or concerns about signal interference, and that can directly use electronic components with different functions, significantly reducing installation costs, and integrating various accessories onto the handlebars of bicycles, electric bicycles, semi-autonomous bicycles, and other types of vehicles, is undoubtedly a goal pursued by the relevant industry.

One aspect of this invention is to provide a grip sleeve that is mounted on a bicycle handlebar via a two-piece structure, forming a space on the handlebar that can accommodate multiple electronic circuit components, thereby achieving the advantages of highly customizable flexibility and easy assembly.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the grip sleeve includes a hollow tube and a cover. The hollow tube has a first base and a second base disposed opposite each other on one side. A hollow window is formed between the first base and the second base, and each hollow window also has a slot. A first opening is provided on the other side of the hollow tube for a handlebar to be inserted into the hollow tube through the first opening. Each slot is used to insert and fix an axially arranged first electronic component, and the first base and the second base are used to abut a radially arranged second electronic component. The cover covers the hollow tube and locks the hollow tube onto the handlebar.

Another aspect of this invention is to provide a grip sleeve for use on bicycle frame handlebars, featuring left, right, and rear directional warning lights.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned axially arranged first electronic element is a light-emitting element, whose emitted light is emitted laterally from the hollow tube. The aforementioned radially arranged second electronic element includes a light-emitting element, whose emitted light is emitted longitudinally from the hollow tube.

Another aspect of this invention is to provide a grip sleeve with a pouch.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the cover further includes a pouch that extends outward from one side of the hollow tube to form a second receiving space.

In summary, the grip sleeve of this invention, through the multi-faceted arrangement of electronic components, allows for mass production and customization to adapt to a wider range of application environments. It can directly utilize electronic components with different functions, significantly reducing installation costs, and can integrate various accessories onto a single grip sleeve handle.

10: Hollow Tube Body

11A: First Plinth

11B: Second Plinth

12: Openwork window

13: Slot

14: First utterance

15: Cable Trays

16: Convex Rib

17: First-tier structure

18: Second-tier structure

20: Cover

21A: First opening

21B: Second opening

22: Circular groove

23: Buckle Lock

24: Pouch

25: Second Accommodation Space

26: Third opening

27: Guide ditch

30: First Electronic Component

31: Second electronic component

32: Shot laterally

33: Shot longitudinally

40: First Accommodation Space

Figure 1 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the grip sleeve of the present invention.

Figure 2A is a partial schematic diagram of the hollow tube in Figure 1 from another viewpoint.

Figure 2B is a schematic cross-sectional view along line A-A' of Figure 2A.

Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the hollow tube body of the present invention.

Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the handle tube body in this invention.

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the grip sleeve of the present invention.

Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the light-emitting mode of the grip sleeve of this invention.

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the cover of this invention.

The invention will be explained in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

Please refer to Figures 1, 2A, and 2B. Figure 1 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the grip sleeve of the present invention; Figure 2A is a partial view of the hollow tube in Figure 1 from another angle; Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view along A-A' of Figure 2A. In one embodiment, a grip sleeve applied to a bicycle frame handlebar includes a hollow tube 10 and a cover 20. The cover 20 is used to cover the hollow tube 10 and lock the hollow tube 10 onto the bicycle frame handlebar (not shown in the figures). As shown in Figure 2A, the hollow tube 10 has a first base 11A and a second base 11B disposed opposite each other on one side. A hollow window 12 is formed between the first base 11A and the second base 11B, and each hollow window 12 has a slot 13. A first opening 14 is provided on the other side of the hollow tube 10 for inserting the frame handlebars into the hollow tube 10 through the first opening 14.

Each slot 13 is used to insert and fix an axially arranged first electronic component 30, and the first base 11A and the second base 11B are used to abut a radially arranged second electronic component 31. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the following embodiments do not specifically describe batteries or any power source. Batteries may be externally attached or embedded in the handle, unless an embodiment with a special structure disclosed herein is excluded. Providing power is achievable by those skilled in the art and will not be elaborated upon here.

It is worth noting that, here, "handlebars" is defined as a handlebar that a user can grip and operate while riding a mobile vehicle, or a functional handlebar for a stationary vehicle; mobile vehicles include, but are not limited to, bicycles, and self-propelled/semi-self-propelled (or hub-generated) bicycles.

The fixed platform can be equipment installed in a gym, such as a stationary bike or a weightlifting machine. The grip sleeve of this invention can also be installed on the handles of these machines. The internal electronic components can be adapted to actual application needs, such as functioning as a switch, weight control, safety sensing, recording and detection, music playback, or image projection.

Please refer to Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the hollow tube body of the present invention; and Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the hollow tube body of the present invention. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 3A, the first base 11A and the second base 11B extend inward (protrude inward) along an inner wall of the hollow tube body 10. The perforated window 12 is opened in the hollow tube body 10, and the slot 13 is located on an outer wall of the hollow tube body 10 corresponding to the perforated window 12.

In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 3B, the perforated window 12 is formed in the hollow tube 10 and recessed along an inner wall of the hollow tube 10. The slot 13 is disposed on an outer wall of the hollow tube 10, corresponding to the position of the perforated window 12.

Figures 3A and 3B show two opposing embodiments with convex or concave interiors. The difference lies in the mold-making process; there is no difference in function or structure. A platform is formed within the hollow tube 10 by the first base 11A and the opposing second base 11B, allowing the radially arranged second electronic component 31 to be placed parallel to it. As shown in Figure 2B, a first stepped structure 17 and a second stepped structure 18 are formed on the inner and outer sides of the platform, respectively. The first stepped structure 17 is formed inside the hollow tube 10 for limiting its position and is adaptable to different tube sizes. The second stepped structure 18 is formed at the top of the hollow tube 10 to abut against the cover 20. A slot 13 corresponding to the position of the perforated window 12 provides a space for the first electronic component 30 to be vertically inserted into the slot 13. The area enclosed by the first base 11A, the second base 11B (on which the second electronic component 31 is placed), and the hollow window 12 (the first electronic component 30) located between them forms a first accommodating space 40.

Referring also to Figure 5, in one embodiment, when the aforementioned axially arranged first electronic element 30 is a light-emitting element, the emitted light can be emitted laterally from the handle 32. The aforementioned radially arranged second electronic element 31 includes a light-emitting element, and the emitted light can be emitted longitudinally from the handle 33. This allows the grip to function as left, right, and rearward warning lights.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2A, due to the limited space in the handlebars, the present invention maximizes space utilization and facilitates installation. The second electronic component 31, provided it is of a suitable size, can be placed on the platform. In addition to the light-emitting element, the second electronic component 31 may also include various other functional modules, including but not limited to a buzzer, horn, Bluetooth communication module, electric bicycle drive control module, or voltage/current conversion module.

The structure of this invention offers great convenience for maintenance, replacement, or upgrades; simply remove the cover and replace the first or second electronic component.

It is worth noting that when the second electronic component includes a speaker module, it can be combined with a housing to enclose the first accommodating space to create a sound system with superior listening performance. This is a unique design not currently seen in the market.

In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1, 2A, and 2B, the grip sleeve of the present invention further includes at least one wiring channel 15 and at least one opening (e.g., the first opening 21A shown in Figure 1). The wiring channel is disposed on an outer wall of the hollow tube 10 corresponding to the perforated window 12. The opening 21A may be, but is not limited to, a USB port, an audio source port, or other types of openings 21A. The electrical connection wire of the opening 21A can be electrically connected to the second electronic component 31 through the wiring channel 15. For example, the functional module of the second electronic component 31 may include a power module (voltage conversion module), through which the rider can install a dashcam or headlight. It is worth noting that the openings can be arbitrarily configured to correspond to the wiring channels 15 to meet different application requirements (e.g., the second opening 21B shown in Figure 1); in fact, the entire surface of the hollow tube 10 can be provided with wiring channels 15 or similar slots. Where space permits, more functional electronic components can be placed within the slots, further enhancing the grip's functionality. The first opening 21A and the second opening 21B can be selectively configured individually or simultaneously on the cover 20.

Please also refer to Figure 4, which is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the grip sleeve of the present invention. In this embodiment, at least one third opening 26 is formed at the first opening at the end of the cover 20. This third opening 26 corresponds to the wiring groove (not shown) of the hollow tube 10. The first opening 21A and second opening 21B on the side, or the third opening 26 at the end, can be configured to adapt to more different application environments without requiring additional complex circuit wiring or concerns about signal interference.

Although this specification and drawings do not depict the functional modules or other electronic components in detail, those skilled in the art will recognize that, by applying the structural design of this invention, electronic components of suitable size can be placed within it.

Furthermore, the outer wall of the hollow tube 10 is provided with at least one protruding rib 16, and the inner wall of the cover 20 has a corresponding guide groove 27. This protruding rib 16 and guide groove 27 are designed to facilitate the alignment of the cover 20 for easy installation and to provide a limiting effect, ensuring that the cover 20 not only securely covers the hollow tube 10 but also does not rotate relative to the tube. On the side of the cover 20 opposite the position of the perforated window 12, there is an annular groove 22 for a snap-lock 23 to secure the cover 20 and the hollow tube 10 to the handlebars of the frame.

In another embodiment, the cover 20 further includes a pouch 24 extending outward from one side of the hollow tube 10 to form a second receiving space 25. The second receiving space 25 houses a battery (not shown), which is electrically connected via the wiring channel 15 to the first electronic component, the second electronic component, and/or the opening, serving as a power source for the electronic components. The battery can be charged via the opening using an external power source, or it can charge other external devices.

Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the pouch 24 is designed in a fin shape, providing sufficient rigidity through the use of appropriate materials, and can also serve as an auxiliary handlebar for the frame handlebars. When the handlebar grips are applied to electric bicycles or other mobile vehicles with built-in or external batteries, the second storage space 25 does not need to house the battery. This second storage space 25 can be used to house other functional modules, such as buzzers, horns, Bluetooth communication modules, electric bicycle drive control modules, or voltage/current conversion modules.

In the past, inventors tried to integrate grips into the frame handlebar tubes or along the sides, but this often resulted in problems such as insufficient space, inadequate battery capacity, or electrical interference with metal components, failing to meet user needs in practical applications. The Pocket 24 design revolutionizes traditional grip design; its internal space can not only be used to store batteries but also accommodate various functional modules to suit different usage requirements.

Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the invention. Anyone skilled in the art may make modifications and refinements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention shall be determined by the appended claims.

10. Hollow Tube Body

14‧‧‧First Opening

15... Cable Trays

16...protruding ribs

20...body cover

21A‧‧‧First Opening

21B...Second Opening

22‧‧‧Circular Trough

23‧‧‧Lock

24‧‧‧Pouches

25‧‧‧Second Accommodation Space

30...First Electronic Components

31. Second Electronic Component

Claims (12)

A grip sleeve includes: a hollow tube having a first base and a second base oppositely disposed on one side of its interior, with a hollow window between the first base and the second base, each hollow window having a slot; a first opening on the other side of the hollow tube for inserting a frame handlebar into the hollow tube through the first opening; wherein each slot is used to insert and fix an axially disposed first electronic component, and the first base and the second base are used to abut a radially disposed second electronic component. The system includes a cover for enclosing the hollow tube and securing it to the handlebars. The first base and the second base extend along the inner wall of the hollow tube to form a platform for placing the radially arranged second electronic component. A first stepped structure and a second stepped structure are formed on the inner and outer sides of the platform, respectively. The first stepped structure is formed inside the hollow tube to limit the movement of the handlebars, and the second stepped structure is formed at the top of the hollow tube to abut against the cover. As described in claim 1, the grip sleeve has a perforated window in the hollow tube, and the slot is located on an outer wall of the hollow tube corresponding to the perforated window. As described in claim 1, the grip sleeve has a perforated window formed in the hollow tube and recessed along an inner wall of the hollow tube, and a slot corresponding to the position of the perforated window is disposed on an outer wall of the hollow tube. As described in claim 1, the grip sleeve, wherein the first base, the second base, and the area within the hollowed-out window formed a first receiving space. The grip sleeve as described in claim 1, wherein the first electronic element is a light-emitting element that emits light laterally from the hollow tube, and the second electronic element includes a light-emitting element that emits light longitudinally from the hollow tube. The grip sleeve as described in claim 5, wherein the second electronic component further includes at least one functional module. As described in claim 5, the grip sleeve has a cable tray disposed on an outer wall of the hollow tube next to the perforated window. As described in claim 5, the grip sleeve has at least one rib on the outer wall of the hollow tube, and the inner wall of the cover has a guide groove corresponding to the rib. As described in claim 5, the grip cover has an annular groove on a side opposite the perforated window position for accommodating a snap ring to secure the cover and the hollow tube to the handlebars. As described in claim 5, the grip cover further includes a pouch that extends outward from one side of the hollow tube to form a second receiving space. As described in claim 7, the grip cover has at least one opening corresponding to the wiring groove of the hollow tube. The grip sleeve as described in claim 11, wherein at least one functional electronic component is disposed within the wiring channel.