TWI912320B - Human-powered vehicle rear gearbox - Google Patents

Abstract

The purpose of this invention is to provide a rear transmission for manually operated vehicles with improved performance. The rear transmission for manually operated vehicles includes a movable component and a guide wheel assembly rotatably mounted on the movable component about a first axis of rotation. The guide wheel assembly includes a stationary angle adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component. The stationary angle adjustment mechanism includes: a positioning ratchet component, which is integrally rotatable about a first rotation axis with the guide wheel assembly and has at least one ratchet tooth; a positioning pawl component, which has a positioning pawl configured to engage with the at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet component; and a release pawl component, which has a release pawl configured to engage with the engaging portion of the positioning pawl component in a manner that releases the positioning pawl of the positioning pawl component from the at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet component.

Description

Human-powered vehicle rear gearbox

This disclosure relates to a rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle.

A rear gearbox for a human-powered vehicle is known, which allows for arbitrary changes to the gear ratios. Patent 1 discloses an example of such a rear gearbox.

[Previous Technical Documents] [Patent Documents]

[Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018/0265169, Description

Patent document 1 discloses that the subsequent gearbox includes the potential to improve performance.

The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a rear transmission for manually driven vehicles with improved performance.

The first-state rear transmission disclosed herein is a rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a base component configured to be mounted on the frame of the aforementioned human-powered vehicle; a movable component configured to be movable relative to the base component; and a guide wheel assembly rotatably mounted on the movable component about a first rotation axis in a first rotation direction and in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction; and the guide wheel assembly comprising: at least one of an outer plate and an inner plate; at least one guide wheel rotatably disposed on the outer plate and the inner plate about at least one guide wheel axis; and a stationary angle adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component; the stationary angle adjustment mechanism comprising: a positioning ratchet mechanism. The movable component is configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly around the first rotation axis and has at least one ratchet tooth; the positioning pawl component is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable component around a second rotation axis away from the first rotation axis and has a positioning pawl and a locking portion, the positioning pawl engaging with at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet component. The positioning pawl assembly is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member around a third rotation axis, which is located away from the first and second rotation axes. It also has a release pawl configured to engage with the engagement portion of the positioning pawl assembly in a manner that releases the positioning pawl of the positioning pawl assembly from at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet assembly.

According to the first-model rear derailleur, the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component can be adjusted by engaging the positioning pawl with the positioning ratchet teeth. According to the first-model rear derailleur, the engagement of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component can be released by releasing the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet teeth. Whether the wheels are mounted on the frame or removed from the frame, the rear derailleur is operated to rotate the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component and to rotate the base component relative to the frame of a manually driven vehicle. In these cases, since the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component can be adjusted by the stationary angle adjustment mechanism, the installation and removal of the wheels from the frame become easier, improving performance.

In the second configuration of the first configuration disclosed herein, the aforementioned positioning ratchet component is mounted on the guide wheel assembly in such a manner that it rotates integrally with the guide wheel assembly about the first rotation axis in the first rotation direction and in the second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction.

According to the second-stage derailleur, a positioning ratchet mechanism that rotates integrally with the guide wheel assembly allows for appropriate adjustment of the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component. This facilitates the installation of the wheels onto the frame and the removal of the wheels from the frame.

As in the first or third embodiment of the transmission disclosed herein, at least one of the outer plate and the inner plate comprises both the outer plate and the inner plate, and the at least one guide wheel is rotatably disposed between the outer plate and the inner plate about the axis of the guide wheel.

According to the third-state design, the rigidity of the rear gearbox is improved because it includes both an outer plate and an inner plate.

As in the fourth state of any of the first to third states disclosed herein, in the following gearbox, the aforementioned positioning ratchet member has a cam surface configured such that the positioning pawl of the positioning pawl member is pushed back by means of the engagement portion of the positioning pawl member engaging with the release pawl of the release pawl member.

According to the fourth state of the rear derailleur, by using the cam face to push back the positioning pawl, the engaging part of the positioning pawl component can be appropriately engaged with the releasing pawl of the releasing pawl component. Therefore, the state of the rear derailleur can be appropriately shifted from a state where the adjustment guide wheel assembly is at a stationary angle relative to the movable component to a state where the guide wheel assembly can move relative to the movable component.

As shown in the fourth and fifth states of the transmission disclosed herein, the aforementioned cam surface has curvature.

According to the fifth state of the rear transmission, because the locating pawl moves on the curved cam surface, the state of the rear transmission can be appropriately shifted from the state where the guide wheel assembly is at rest relative to the movable component to the state where the guide wheel assembly can move relative to the movable component.

As in the fourth or sixth state of the transmission disclosed herein, the aforementioned cam surface is a smooth surface.

According to the sixth state of the rear transmission, because the cam face smoothly pushes back the locating pawl, the state of the rear transmission can be appropriately shifted from the state where the guide wheel assembly is at rest relative to the movable component to the state where the guide wheel assembly can move relative to the movable component.

The transmission following the seventh state of any of the fourth to sixth states disclosed herein, wherein the aforementioned cam face is adjacent to the aforementioned at least one ratchet tooth.

According to the seventh-state rear derailleur, the cam face, due to its adjacency with at least one ratchet tooth, contributes to the miniaturization of the rear derailleur.

The transmission following the eighth configuration of any of the fourth to seventh configurations disclosed herein, wherein at least one ratchet tooth has an outermost tooth tip, the length of which is defined from the first rotational axis to the outermost tooth tip, and the maximum cam length is defined from the first rotational axis to the maximum length of the cam face, wherein the maximum cam length is greater than the length of the tooth.

According to the 8th state of the rear transmission, since the length of the largest cam is greater than the length of the tooth, by using the cam face to push back the locating pawl mechanism, the state of the rear transmission can be appropriately shifted from the static angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component to a state where the guide wheel assembly can move relative to the movable component.

The transmission following the 9th state of any of the 1st to 8th states disclosed herein, wherein at least one ratchet tooth comprises a plurality of ratchet teeth.

According to the 9th phase and subsequent gearboxes, the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the moving parts can be adjusted in stages, thus making the installation of the wheels onto the frame and the removal of the wheels from the frame easier.

The transmission following any of the tenth configurations of configurations 1 to 9 disclosed herein further comprises: a guide wheel assembly spring-pushing member, which is arranged around the first rotational axis such that it springs the guide wheel assembly along the first rotational direction of the base component near at least one guide wheel.

According to the 10th state of the rear derailleur, when the engagement between the positioning ratchet and the positioning pawl is released, the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing mechanism pushes at least one guide wheel closer to the base component. Therefore, the state of the rear derailleur can be appropriately shifted from a state where the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component is adjusted to a state where the guide wheel assembly can move relative to the movable component.

The transmission following any of the eleventh configurations of configurations 1 to 10 disclosed herein further comprises: a positioning pawl pusher mechanism disposed about the second rotational axis; and the positioning pawl mechanism being rotatably mounted on the movable member about the second rotational axis in a third rotational direction and in a fourth rotational direction opposite to the third rotational direction, wherein the positioning pawl pusher mechanism pushes the positioning pawl mechanism along the third rotational direction of the positioning ratchet mechanism.

According to the transmission after state 11, since the positioning pawl is pushed closer to the positioning ratchet mechanism by the positioning pawl pusher, the positioning pawl can be appropriately engaged with the ratchet teeth. Therefore, the guide wheel assembly can be appropriately moved from a state where it can move relative to the movable component to a state where the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component is adjusted.

The transmission following any of the 12th configurations of configurations 1 to 11 disclosed herein further comprises: a release pawl pusher mechanism disposed about the aforementioned third rotational axis; and the release pawl mechanism being rotatably mounted on the aforementioned movable member about the aforementioned third rotational axis in a fifth rotational direction and in a sixth rotational direction opposite to the aforementioned fifth rotational direction; the release pawl pusher mechanism pushes the release pawl mechanism along the aforementioned fifth rotational direction where the release pawl of the release pawl approaches the aforementioned engaging portion of the aforementioned positioning pawl mechanism.

According to the 12th state of the rear derailleur, since the release pawl is pushed by the release pawl pusher to bring it closer to the engaging part of the positioning pawl, the release pawl can be appropriately engaged with the engaging part. Therefore, the state of the rear derailleur can be appropriately shifted from the state where the guide wheel assembly is at rest relative to the movable component to the state where the guide wheel assembly can move relative to the movable component.

The transmission following the 13th configuration of any one of the first to 12th configurations disclosed herein, wherein the at least one guide wheel comprises: a guide wheel rotatably disposed on the outer plate and the inner plate about a guide wheel rotation axis; and a tension guide wheel rotatably disposed on the outer plate and the inner plate about a tension guide wheel rotation axis.

According to the gearbox model after state 13, since the guide wheel includes both a guide wheel and a tension guide wheel, the gear shifting efficiency can be improved.

The transmission following any of the 14th state samples from any of the 1st to 13th states disclosed herein includes a release pawl mechanism comprising a manual operation unit configured to be operated by a user in a manner that releases the engagement portion of the positioning pawl mechanism from the release pawl of the release pawl mechanism.

According to the 14th-stage rear derailleur, the user can appropriately release the engagement of the locking mechanism and the release pawl via a manual operation. This makes the installation of the wheelset to the frame and the removal of the wheels from the frame easier.

The transmission following the 15th state of any of the 1st to 14th states disclosed herein further comprises: a cover component configured to cover at least a portion of the aforementioned stationary angle adjustment mechanism.

According to the transmission after state 15, the stationary angle adjustment mechanism can be appropriately protected.

The rear transmission of the 16th aspect disclosed herein is a rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a base component configured to be mounted on the frame of the aforementioned human-powered vehicle; a movable component configured to be movable relative to the base component; and a guide wheel assembly rotatably mounted on the movable component about a first rotation axis in a first rotation direction and in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction; and the guide wheel assembly comprising: at least one of an outer plate and an inner plate; at least one guide wheel rotatably disposed about at least one guide wheel axis on the outer plate and the inner plate; and a static... A stop angle adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the stop angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable member. The stop angle adjustment mechanism includes: a positioning ratchet member, configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly about a first rotation axis in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction, and having at least one ratchet tooth; and a positioning pawl member, configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member about a second rotation axis away from the first rotation axis, and having a positioning pawl that engages with the at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet member.

According to the 16th version of the rear derailleur, the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component can be adjusted by engaging the positioning pawl with the positioning ratchet teeth. According to the 16th version of the rear derailleur, the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component can be appropriately adjusted by the positioning ratchet component, which rotates integrally with the guide wheel assembly. Whether the wheels are mounted on the frame or removed from the frame, the operation of rotating the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component and rotating the base component relative to the frame of a manually driven vehicle are performed on the rear derailleur. In these cases, since the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable component can be adjusted by the stationary angle adjustment mechanism, the installation and removal of the wheels from the frame become easier, improving performance.

As in the 17th and 16th versions of the transmission disclosed herein, the aforementioned stationary angle adjustment mechanism includes: a release pawl member configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member about a third rotational axis away from the first and second rotational axes; the release pawl member having: a release pawl configured to engage with the engagement portion of the positioning pawl member in a manner that releases the positioning pawl of the positioning pawl member from at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet member.

According to the 17th phase and subsequent gearboxes, by using a release pawl to release the positioning pawl from the positioning ratchet, the engagement of the guide wheel assembly with the moving parts can be released. This makes the installation of the wheels onto the frame and the removal of the wheels from the frame easier.

The rear gearbox disclosed herein for human-powered vehicles improves the performance of wheel-to-frame installation and wheel removal from the frame.

10: Human-powered vehicle

12: Crank

12A: Crankshaft

14: Crank arm

16: Pedal

18: Wheels

18F: Front wheel

18R: rear wheel

20: Car Body

22: Chassis

24: Drive mechanism

26:Front sprocket

28:Rear sprocket

30: Chain

32: Front fork

34: Handlebars

36: Riser

38: Pivot Component

40: Rear Derailleur

42: Base Components

44: Movable components

46: Guide wheel assembly

48: Outer panel

50: Inner Panel

52: Guide wheel

54: Stationary Angle Adjustment Mechanism

56: Positioning ratchet component

56A: Ratchet Tooth

56B: Hole

56C: Anti-rotation part

56D: Outermost tooth cusp

56E: Cam face

58: Positioning claw component

58A: Positioning claw

58B: Fastening part

58C: Positioning claw ejector component

60: Release the claw component

60A: Release Claws

60B: Manual Operation Unit

60C: Release claw thruster mechanism

62: Linking mechanisms

66: Guide wheel

68: Tension Guide Wheel

70: Guide wheel assembly spring thruster component

72: Pivot Component

74: Cover Components

76: Ratchet teeth

C1: First rotational axis

C2: Second rotation axis

C3: Third rotational axis

CB: Shaft of pivot component 38

CG: Guide wheel rotation axis

CP: Guide wheel shaft

CT: Tension guide wheel rotation axis

D: Stationary angle

L1: Tooth length

L2: Maximum cam length

X1: First rotation direction

X2: Second rotation direction

X3: Third rotation direction

X4: Fourth rotation direction

X5: Fifth rotation direction

X6: Sixth rotation direction

Figure 1 is a side view showing the configuration of a human-powered vehicle including a rear gearbox for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment.

Figure 2 is a top view of the rear gearbox of the manually driven vehicle shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a top view showing the stationary angle adjustment mechanism of the rear transmission of the manually operated vehicle shown in Figure 2 and its surroundings.

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view along line 4-4 of Figure 3.

Figure 5 is a top view showing the rear transmission of the manually driven vehicle shown in Figure 2, with the guide wheel assembly's stationary angle relative to the movable components adjusted.

Figure 6 is a top view showing the stationary angle adjustment mechanism of the rear transmission of the manually driven vehicle shown in Figure 5 and its surroundings.

Figure 7 is a top view showing the rear transmission of the manually driven vehicle shown in Figure 2, with the guide wheel assembly rotating relative to the movable components in the second rotation direction.

Figure 8 is a top view showing the stationary angle adjustment mechanism of the rear transmission of the manually driven vehicle shown in Figure 7 and its surroundings.

Figure 9 is a top view showing the stationary angle adjustment mechanism in the second embodiment.

<Implementation Form 1>

Referring to Figures 1 to 8, the rear derailleur 40 for a human-powered vehicle in the first embodiment is explained. A human-powered vehicle is a means of transportation having at least one wheel and being propelled by at least human power. Human-powered vehicles include various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, and hand-cranked bikes, recumbent bikes, etc. The number of wheels in a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles also include means of transportation having, for example, one wheel and three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles are not limited to means of transportation that can be propelled solely by human power. In addition to human power, human-powered vehicles also include electric bicycles (E-bikes) propelled by an electric motor. Electric bicycles include electric-assisted bicycles propelled by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in the embodiments, human-powered vehicles will be described as bicycles.

As shown in Figure 1, the human-powered vehicle 10 has a crank 12, wheels 18, and a body 20. The wheels 18 have a front wheel 18F and a rear wheel 18R. The body 20 includes a frame 22. The crank 12 includes a crankshaft 12A rotatable relative to the frame 22, and crank arms 14 respectively disposed at the axial ends of the crankshaft 12A. Each crank arm 14 is connected to a pedal 16. The rear wheel 18R is supported by the frame 22. The crank 12 and the rear wheel 18R are connected by a drive mechanism 24. The rear wheel 18R is driven by the drive mechanism 24. The drive mechanism 24 transmits power to the rear wheel 18R by the rotation of the crank 12. Drive mechanism 24 includes a front sprocket 26 connected to crankshaft 12A. Crankshaft 12A and front sprocket 26 can also be connected via a first one-way clutch. The first one-way clutch is configured such that the front sprocket 26 rotates forward when crank 12 rotates forward, and is configured such that the front sprocket 26 does not rotate backward when crank 12 rotates backward. In the case of a plurality of front sprockets 26, the plurality of front sprockets 26 constitute a front sprocket assembly. Drive mechanism 24 further includes a rear sprocket 28 and a chain 30. Chain 30 transmits the rotational force of the front sprocket 26 to the rear sprocket 28. Drive mechanism 24 includes a plurality of rear sprockets 28. A plurality of rear sprockets 28 constitute a rear sprocket assembly.

The rear sprocket 28 is connected to the rear wheel 18R. Preferably, a second one-way clutch is provided between the rear sprocket 28 and the rear wheel 18R. The second one-way clutch is configured such that when the rear sprocket 28 rotates forward, the rear wheel 18R rotates forward, and when the rear sprocket 28 rotates backward, the rear wheel 18R does not rotate backward.

The front wheel 18F is mounted on the frame 22 via the front fork 32. The handlebars 34 are connected to the front fork 32 via the seat tube 36. In this embodiment, the rear wheel 18R is connected to the crank 12 via the drive mechanism 24, but it is also possible to connect at least one of the rear wheel 18R and the front wheel 18F to the crank 12 via the drive mechanism 24.

Refer to Figures 1 through 8 for the description of the rear derailleur 40. Figures 3 through 8 show the rear derailleur 40 with the cover component 74 removed.

The human-powered vehicle 10 includes a rear derailleur 40. The rear derailleur 40 is configured to change the ratio of the rotational speed of the rear wheel 18R to the rotational speed of the crank 12, i.e., the gear ratio. The rear derailleur 40 can be configured to change the ratio of the rotational speeds of the front sprocket 26 and the rear sprocket 28, which are driven by the chain 30, to the rotational speeds of the rear sprocket 28. The rear derailleur 40 switches the chain 30 from one rear sprocket 28 in the rear sprocket assembly to another rear sprocket 28. In the case where the front sprocket assembly consists of a plurality of front sprockets 26, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a front derailleur.

As shown in Figures 1 to 5, the rear transmission 40 includes a base component 42, a movable component 44, and a guide wheel assembly 46. The base component 42 is configured to be mounted on the frame 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The movable component 44 is configured to be movable relative to the base component 42. The guide wheel assembly 46 is rotatably mounted on the movable component 44 about a first rotation axis C1 along a first rotation direction X1 and a second rotation direction X2 opposite to the first rotation direction X1. The guide wheel assembly 46 includes at least one of an outer plate 48 and an inner plate 50, at least one guide wheel 52, and a stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54. The at least one guide wheel 52 is rotatably disposed on at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 about at least one guide wheel axis CP. The stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 is configured to adjust the stationary angle D of the guide wheel assembly 46 relative to the movable member 44. The stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 includes a positioning ratchet member 56, a positioning pawl member 58, and a releasing pawl member 60. The positioning ratchet member 56 is configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly 46 about a first rotation axis C1. The positioning ratchet member 56 has at least one ratchet tooth 56A. The positioning pawl member 58 is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member 44 about a second rotation axis C2 located away from the first rotation axis C1. The positioning pawl member 58 has a positioning pawl 58A and a locking portion 58B. The positioning pawl 58A is configured to engage with at least one ratchet tooth 56A of the positioning ratchet member 56. The release pawl member 60 is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member 44 about a third rotation axis C3, away from the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2. The release pawl member 60 has a release pawl 60A. The release pawl 60A is configured to engage with the engagement portion 58B of the positioning pawl member 58 in a manner that releases the positioning pawl 58A of the positioning pawl member 58 from at least one ratchet tooth 56A of the positioning ratchet member 56.

For example, the rear derailleur 40 is connected to a gearshift lever mounted on the handlebars 34 via a mechanical cable. The rear derailleur 40 may also have an electric motor that actuates the movable component 44. In this case, the rear derailleur 40 can be connected to the gearshift lever mounted on the handlebars 34 via the electric motor, or it can be configured to wirelessly communicate with the gearshift lever mounted on the handlebars 34.

The base component 42 mounts the rear gearbox 40 to the frame 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a pivot component 38. The pivot component 38 connects the frame 22 and the base component 42. The base component 42 is rotatably mounted to the frame 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10 about the axis CB of the pivot component 38.

For example, the rear derailleur 40 further includes a linkage mechanism 62. The linkage mechanism 62 connects the base member 42 to the movable member 44. The linkage mechanism 62 connects the base member 42 and the movable member 44 in such a way that the movable member 44 can move relative to the base member 42. When the rear derailleur 40 changes the gear ratio, the movable member 44 moves relative to the base member 42 in such a way that the chain 30 is replaced from one rear sprocket 28 included in the rear sprocket assembly to another rear sprocket 28. The guide wheel assembly 46 and the movable member 44 move together in directions close to and away from the rotation axis of the rear wheel 18R. The guide wheel assembly 46 replaces one rear sprocket 28 of the chain 30 within the rear sprocket assembly with another rear sprocket 28.

When the vehicle 10 is driven by a human, the guide wheel assembly 46 operates such that the chain 30 is not detached from at least one guide wheel 52. When the rear derailleur 40 changes gear ratio, the guide wheel assembly 46 operates such that the chain 30 is replaced from one rear sprocket 28 included in the rear sprocket assembly to another rear sprocket 28. When the rear derailleur 40 changes gear ratio, the movable member 44 moves relative to the base member 42 in a direction close to the axis of rotation of the rear wheel 18R and in a direction away from the axis of rotation of the rear wheel 18R. The chain 30 moves via the guide wheel assembly 46 in directions close to and away from the rotation axis of the rear wheel 18R, replacing one rear sprocket 28 within the rear sprocket assembly with another rear sprocket 28.

In the case where the guide wheel assembly 46 includes both an outer plate 48 and an inner plate 50, the outer plate 48 is positioned further away from the human-powered vehicle 10 than the inner plate 50.

The first rotation axis C1 intersects the extending direction of at least one of the surfaces of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50. The surface of at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 is the surface of at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 in the direction in which the guide wheel assembly 46 replaces the chain 30. In this embodiment, at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 includes both the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50. At least one guide wheel 52 is rotatably disposed between the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 about the guide wheel axis CP. For example, at least one guide wheel 52 includes a guide wheel 66 and a tension guide wheel 68. The guide wheel 66 is rotatably disposed about the guide wheel rotation axis CG of at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50. The tension guide wheel 68 is rotatably disposed about at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 around the tension guide wheel rotation axis CT. When at least one guide wheel 52 includes a guide guide wheel 66, the guide wheel axis CP includes a guide guide wheel rotation axis CG. When at least one guide wheel 52 includes a tension guide wheel 68, the guide wheel axis CP includes the tension guide wheel rotation axis CT.

In the case where the guide wheel assembly 46 includes both an outer plate 48 and an inner plate 50, a guide wheel 66 and a tension guide wheel 68 are disposed between the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50. In this case, the guide wheel 66 is rotatably disposed between the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 about a guide wheel rotation axis CG. The tension guide wheel 68 is rotatably disposed between the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50 about a tension guide wheel rotation axis CT. The guide wheel assembly 46 may also include only one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50.

For example, the guide wheel assembly 46 further includes a pivot component 72. The pivot component 72 connects the guide wheel assembly 46 to the movable component 44. For example, the pivot component 72 may be separate from the guide wheel assembly 46. For example, the pivot component 72 may be mounted on the guide wheel assembly 46. The pivot component 72 may also be integrally mounted with the guide wheel assembly 46. For example, the axis of rotation of the pivot component 72 may be coaxial with a first axis of rotation C1. The pivot component 72, relative to the movable component 44, can be rotatably mounted integrally with the guide wheel assembly 46 on the movable component 44 about the first axis of rotation C1 in a first rotation direction X1 and a second rotation direction X2.

For example, the rear derailleur 40 further includes a guide wheel assembly spring-pushing mechanism 70. The guide wheel assembly spring-pushing mechanism 70 is configured about a first rotation axis C1 such that it springs the guide wheel assembly 46 along a first rotation direction X1 near at least one guide wheel 52 close to the base component 42. The first rotation direction X1 is, for example, the angle formed by the direction from the movable component 44 toward the base component 42 and the extending direction of the guide wheel assembly 46, corresponding to a direction where the angle decreases below the human-powered vehicle 10. The second rotation direction X2 is, for example, the angle formed by the direction from the movable component 44 toward the base component 42 and the extending direction of the guide wheel assembly 46, corresponding to a direction where the angle increases below the human-powered vehicle 10. The direction from the movable member 44 toward the base member 42 is, for example, along the line connecting the first rotation axis C1 to the axis CB of the pivot member 38. The extension direction of the guide wheel assembly 46 is, for example, along the line connecting the first rotation axis C1 to the rotation axis CT of the tension guide wheel.

For example, the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 includes a helical spring or a leaf spring. In this embodiment, the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 is a helical spring. The guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 is disposed on the movable component 44. For example, the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 is disposed around the pivot component 72. When the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 is a helical spring, the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 can be inserted into the pivot component 72. The guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70 springs the guide wheel assembly 46 along the first rotation direction X1. When the tension of the chain 30 is greater than the spring-pushing force of the guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component 70, the guide wheel assembly 46 is configured to rotate along the second rotation direction X2. The guide wheel assembly 46 is configured such that it stops rotating around the first rotation axis C1 at a position where the force exerted by the guide wheel assembly pusher 70 in the first rotation direction X1 and the force exerted by the chain tension 30 in the second rotation direction X2 are balanced. If the rear derailleur 40 changes its gear ratio, the chain tension 30 changes, and the guide wheel assembly 46 rotates around the first rotation axis C1.

The stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 is configured to adjust the stationary angle D of the guide wheel assembly 46 relative to the movable member 44, both when the operator removes the rear wheel 18R from the frame 22 and when it is installed on the frame 22. For example, the stationary angle D is defined by the phase of the circumferential positioning pawl member 58 of the positioning ratchet member 56. Alternatively, the stationary angle D can be defined by the phase of the circumferential positioning pawl member 58 of the positioning ratchet member 56 relative to the installation position of the movable member 44. The stationary angle D can also be defined by the angle formed by the direction from the movable member 44 towards the base member 42 and the extending direction of the guide wheel assembly 46.

The stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 is configured to maintain the guide wheel assembly 46 at a specific stationary angle D relative to the movable component 44 when the operator adjusts the stationary angle D of the guide wheel assembly 46 relative to the movable component 44. The stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 is configured such that, when the operator adjusts the stationary angle D of the guide wheel assembly 46 relative to the movable component 44, the operator rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 about a first rotation axis C1 in a second rotation direction X2, thereby adjusting the stationary angle D. The specific stationary angle D is determined by the phase of at least one ratchet tooth 56A on the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet component 56.

For example, a positioning ratchet component 56 is provided on the movable component 44. The positioning ratchet component 56 is mounted on the pivot component 72 of the guide wheel assembly 46. The positioning ratchet component 56 rotates integrally with the guide wheel assembly 46. For example, the positioning ratchet component 56 is separately configured from the guide wheel assembly 46. The positioning ratchet component 56 can also be integrally configured with the guide wheel assembly 46. For example, the positioning ratchet component 56 is mounted on the guide wheel assembly 46 in a manner that it rotates integrally with the guide wheel assembly 46 about a first rotation axis C1 along a first rotation direction X1 and a second rotation direction X2 opposite to the first rotation direction X1. A hole 56B for inserting into the pivot component 72 is provided in the positioning ratchet component 56. An anti-rotation part 56C is provided in the hole 56B. A flat portion is provided on the outer periphery of the pivot component 72. An anti-rotation part 56C engages with the flat portion of the outer periphery of the pivot component 72. The anti-rotation part 56C engages with the flat portion of the pivot component 72 to prevent the pivot component 72 from rotating relative to the positioning ratchet component 56 within the hole 56B.

For example, the positioning pawl component 58 further includes a positioning pawl pusher component 58C configured about a second rotation axis C2. The positioning pawl component 58 is rotatably mounted on the movable component 44 about the second rotation axis C2 along a third rotation direction X3 and a fourth rotation direction X4 opposite to the third rotation direction X3. The positioning pawl pusher component 58C pushes the positioning pawl component 58 towards the positioning ratchet component 56 along the third rotation direction X3 of the positioning pawl 58A. For example, the second rotation axis C2 is parallel to the first rotation axis C1. The second rotation axis C2 may also be non-parallel to the first rotation axis C1.

For example, the release pawl mechanism 60 further includes a release pawl pusher 60C configured about a third rotation axis C3. The release pawl mechanism 60 is rotatably mounted on the movable member 44 about the third rotation axis C3 along a fifth rotation direction X5 and a sixth rotation direction X6 opposite to the fifth rotation direction X5. The release pawl pusher 60C pushes the release pawl mechanism 60 along the fifth rotation direction X5, with the release pawl 60A of the release pawl mechanism 60 approaching the engaging portion 58B of the positioning pawl mechanism 58. For example, the third rotation axis C3 is parallel to the second rotation axis C2. The third rotation axis C3 may also be non-parallel to the second rotation axis C2.

For example, the release pawl component 60 is positioned further away from the positioning ratchet component 56 than the positioning pawl component 58. For example, the springing force of the release pawl spring push component 60C is greater than the springing force of the positioning pawl spring push component 58C.

For example, the release claw mechanism 60 includes a manual operation unit 60B, configured to be operated by a user to release the locking portion 58B of the positioning claw mechanism 58 from the release claw 60A of the release claw mechanism 60. For example, the manual operation unit 60B includes a lever. The manual operation unit 60B may also include a button. With the release claw 60A engaged with the locking portion 58B, if the user operates the manual operation unit 60B in the sixth rotation direction X6, the release claw mechanism 60 rotates in the sixth rotation direction X6. Therefore, the release claw 60A rotates in the sixth rotation direction X6, and the release claw 60A is not in contact with the locking portion 58B.

For example, the positioning ratchet member 56 has a cam surface 56E. The cam surface 56E is configured to push back the positioning pawl 58A of the positioning pawl member 58, so that the engaging portion 58B of the positioning pawl member 58 engages with the releasing pawl 60A of the releasing pawl member 60. The cam surface 56E is disposed on the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet member 56. For example, the cam surface 56E has curvature. For example, the cam surface 56E is a smooth surface. The cam surface 56E is formed on the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet member 56 in a direction away from the first axis of rotation C1. The curvature of the cam surface 56E may also be greater than the curvature of the portion of the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet member 56 that is not the cam surface 56E and is not at least one ratchet tooth 56A. The curvature of the cam face 56E can also be smaller than the curvature of the portion of the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet member 56 that is not the cam face 56E and does not contain at least one ratchet tooth 56A. A plurality of cam faces 56E can also be provided on the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet member 56.

For example, cam face 56E is adjacent to at least one ratchet tooth 56A. For example, cam face 56E is positioned in a continuous manner with a region on the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet member 56 where at least one ratchet tooth 56A is formed. For example, cam face 56E is positioned a certain distance forward along the first rotational direction X1 from the region on the outer periphery of the self-positioning ratchet member 56 where at least one ratchet tooth 56A is formed. Cam face 56E may also not be adjacent to at least one ratchet tooth 56A. In the case where cam face 56E is not adjacent to at least one ratchet tooth 56A, for example, a portion that is neither cam face 56E nor at least one ratchet tooth 56A may be provided between cam face 56E and at least one ratchet tooth 56A.

Cam face 56E pushes back locating pawl 58A, causing locating pawl component 58 to rotate in the fourth rotational direction X4. With locating pawl 58A engaged with at least one ratchet tooth 56A, if locating ratchet component 56 and guide wheel assembly 46 rotate together in the second rotational direction X2, then cam face 56E contacts locating pawl 58A. Cam face 56E pushes locating pawl 58A back in a direction away from locating ratchet component 56, causing locating pawl component 58 to rotate in the fourth rotational direction X4.

At least one ratchet tooth 56A has an outermost tooth tip 56D. The length L1 of the tooth is defined from the first rotation axis C1 to the outermost tooth tip 56D, and the maximum cam length L2 is defined from the first rotation axis C1 to the maximum length of the cam face 56E. For example, the maximum cam length L2 is greater than the tooth length L1. The distance from the first rotation axis C1 to the cam face 56E is equal to the maximum cam length L2. The length of the portion from the first rotation axis C1 to a portion not on the cam face 56E and not belonging to at least one ratchet tooth 56A is less than the tooth length L1.

For example, the rear derailleur 40 further includes a cover member 74 configured to cover at least a portion of the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54. For example, the cover member 74 is configured to cover the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 to allow user operation of the manual operation unit 60B. The cover member 74 may also have a recess or hole for exposing the manual operation unit 60B. For example, the cover member 74 is mounted to the movable member 44 by screws.

The function of the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 is explained.

The release pawl pusher 60C shown in Figure 4 is configured to push the release pawl 60 along the fifth rotational direction X5. As shown in Figure 3, when the release pawl 60A is engaged with the engaging part 58B, because the pushing force of the release pawl pusher 60C in the fifth rotational direction X5 is greater than the pushing force of the positioning pawl pusher 58C in the third rotational direction X3, the positioning pawl 58 remains stationary, away from the positioning ratchet 56, and stops rotating around the second rotational axis C2.

As shown in Figures 5 to 8, when the release pawl 60A and the engaging portion 58B are not engaged, the rotation of the positioning pawl component 58 around the second rotation axis C2 is stopped by engaging the positioning pawl 58A with at least one ratchet tooth 56A of the positioning ratchet component 56. When the release pawl 60A and the engaging portion 58B are not engaged, the positioning pawl component 58 can also be stopped from rotating around the second rotation axis C2 by means of a positioning pawl anti-rotation component. For example, the positioning pawl anti-rotation component is provided in the movable component 44. The positioning pawl anti-rotation component stops the positioning pawl component 58 from rotating around the second rotation axis C2 in such a way that the positioning pawl 58A does not engage with the portion of the positioning ratchet component 56 that is not the cam face 56E, and not with the portion of at least one ratchet tooth 56A.

If the release pawl 60A rotates around the third rotation axis C3 in the fifth rotation direction X5 compared to Figure 8, then the engaging part 58B engages with the release pawl 60A as shown in Figure 3. For example, when the release pawl 60A is engaged with the engaging part 58B, the positioning pawl pusher 58C is balanced by the push force of the engaging part 58B and the release pawl 60A in the sixth rotation direction X6 and the push force of the release pawl pusher 60C in the fifth rotation direction X5, thus maintaining the state in which the release pawl component 60 stops rotating around the third rotation axis C3. For example, as shown in Figure 6, when the release claw 60A and the engaging portion 58B are not engaged, because a portion of the release claw component 60 is in contact with the positioning claw component 58, the release claw component 60 remains stationary around the third rotation axis C3.

As shown in Figures 5 and 6, when the locating pawl 58A is engaged with at least one ratchet tooth 56A, the locating ratchet component 56 cannot rotate in the first rotational direction X1. Therefore, the guide wheel assembly 46 cannot rotate in the first rotational direction X1. When the locating pawl 58A is engaged with at least one ratchet tooth 56A, the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 functions as a one-way clutch that allows the guide wheel assembly 46 to rotate about the first rotational axis C1 in the second rotational direction X2 and restricts rotation in the first rotational direction X1.

Refer to Figures 3 through 8 to explain the status of the rear gearbox 40.

The rear derailleur 40 has two states: a normal state and a maintenance state. The normal state is when the vehicle 10 is manually driven and the guide wheel assembly 46 can move relative to the movable component 44. The maintenance state is for installing the rear wheel 18R onto the frame 22 and removing the rear wheel 18R from the frame 22, i.e., adjusting the rest angle D of the guide wheel assembly 46 relative to the movable component 44. In the maintenance state, the rest angle adjustment mechanism 54 functions as a one-way clutch for the guide wheel assembly 46 to rotate around the first rotation axis C1 relative to the movable component 44; in the normal state, it does not function as a one-way clutch.

With the release pawl 60A and the engaging part 58B engaged as shown in Figure 3, the rear derailleur 40 is in its normal state. When the rear derailleur 40 is in its normal state, the guide wheel assembly 46 can rotate relative to the movable member 44 about the first rotation axis C1 along the first rotation direction X1 and the second rotation direction X2, depending on the tension of the chain 30.

When the rear derailleur 40 is in its normal state, the release pawl 60A engages with the engagement part 58B, preventing the positioning pawl 58A from engaging with the ratchet tooth 56A. Therefore, the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 does not function as a one-way clutch. Consequently, the guide wheel assembly 46 can rotate relative to the movable component 44 about the first rotation axis C1 in the first rotation direction X1 and the second rotation direction X2.

With the release pawl 60A and the engaging portion 58B released as shown in Figures 5 to 8, the rear derailleur 40 is in a maintenance state. When the rear derailleur 40 is in its normal state, if the operator operates the manual control unit 60B in the sixth rotation direction X6, the state of the rear derailleur 40 will switch from the normal state to the maintenance state.

If the operator operates the manual operating part 60B in the sixth rotation direction X6, the release pawl mechanism 60 rotates in the sixth rotation direction X6. If the release pawl 60A moves in the sixth rotation direction X6, the release pawl 60A releases from the engaging part 58B, and the engaging part 58B is released from the release pawl 60A. If the engaging part 58B is released from the release pawl 60A, the positioning pawl mechanism 58 rotates around the second rotation axis C2 in the third rotation direction X3 via the positioning pawl pusher mechanism 58C. The positioning pawl mechanism 58 rotates until the positioning pawl 58A engages with the positioning ratchet mechanism 56.

After the operator completes the operation of the manual operating unit 60B in the sixth rotation direction X6, the release pawl member 60 is pushed along the fifth rotation direction X5 by the release pawl pusher member 60C. The release pawl pusher member 60C positions the release pawl 60A in the positioning pawl member 58 at a position different from the engaging portion 58B, or at a position away from the positioning pawl member 58. When the release pawl 60A is positioned in the positioning pawl member 58 at a position different from the engaging portion 58B, or at a position away from the positioning pawl member 58, the release pawl 60A is not engaged with the engaging portion 58B.

As shown in Figure 5, if the operator rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2, the positioning ratchet component 56 will also rotate around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2. When the rear transmission 40 is in the maintenance state, if the positioning ratchet component 56 rotates around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2, the positioning pawl 58A will engage with at least one ratchet tooth 56A. If the positioning pawl 58A engages with at least one ratchet tooth 56A, the rotation of the positioning ratchet component 56 around the first rotation axis C1 in the first rotation direction X1 is restricted by the positioning pawl 58A. Therefore, the guide wheel assembly 46, which rotates integrally with the positioning ratchet member 56, is restricted to rotation in the first rotation direction X1 about the first rotation axis C1. Thus, the guide wheel assembly 46 remains stationary at a stationary angle D relative to the movable member 44. By maintaining the guide wheel assembly 46 at a stationary angle D relative to the movable member 44, the operator can easily remove the rear wheel 18R shown in FIG. 1 from the frame 22. Furthermore, by maintaining the guide wheel assembly 46 at a stationary angle D relative to the movable member 44, the operator can easily install the rear wheel 18R onto the frame 22.

As shown in Figure 7, when the guide wheel assembly 46 is stationary at a stationary angle D relative to the movable component 44, if the operator rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 in the second rotation direction X2, the positioning pawl 58A will engage with the cam surface 56E.

As shown in Figure 8, if the operator rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 in the second rotation direction X2 while the positioning claw 58A is engaged with the cam face 56E, the positioning claw 58A is pushed back in the fourth rotation direction X4 along the cam face 56E, causing the positioning claw component 58 to rotate in the fourth rotation direction X4. Therefore, the engaging portion 58B rotates to a position where it can engage with the release claw 60A. When the engaging portion 58B moves to a position where it can engage with the release claw 60A, the release claw 60A rotates in the sixth rotation direction X6 while one side contacts the outer periphery of the positioning claw component 58. If the engaging portion 58B moves to a position where it can engage with the release claw 60A, then the release claw 60A engages with the engaging portion 58B. Therefore, the state of the rear derailleur 40 changes from the maintenance state to the normal state. When the rear derailleur 40 changes from the maintenance state to the normal state, the guide wheel assembly 46 rotates in the first rotation direction X1 by the spring-thrusting force of the guide wheel assembly spring-thrusting member 70.

The guide wheel assembly 46 can also be configured such that it does not rotate in the second rotational direction X2 when the cam face 56E is in contact with the locating pawl 58A. For example, the guide wheel assembly 46 may also be equipped with an anti-rotation member to prevent it from rotating in the second rotational direction X2 when the cam face 56E is in contact with the locating pawl 58A.

<Second Implementation Form>

Referring to Figures 2, 5, and 9, the rear transmission 40 for a human-powered vehicle of the second embodiment is described. The rear transmission 40 for a human-powered vehicle of the second embodiment is identical to that of the rear transmission 40 for a human-powered vehicle of the first embodiment, except for the differences in the shapes of the positioning ratchet member 56, the positioning pawl member 58, and the release pawl member 60. Therefore, for components common to the first embodiment, the same symbols as in the first embodiment are used, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

In this embodiment, at least one ratchet tooth 56A comprises a plurality of ratchet teeth 76. For example, the number of the plurality of ratchet teeth 76 is two or more. For example, the number of the plurality of ratchet teeth 76 is ten or less. The number of the plurality of ratchet teeth 76 in Figure 9 is six. The plurality of ratchet teeth 76 are disposed at specific intervals on the outer periphery of the positioning ratchet tooth component 56. The specific interval between every two adjacent ratchet teeth 76 may also be different.

If the operator operates the manual operating part 60B of the release pawl component 60 to disengage the release pawl 60A from the engaging part 58B, the rear transmission 40 will enter a maintenance state. When the rear transmission 40 is in the maintenance state, if the operator rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2, the positioning pawl 58A will engage with the ratchet tooth 76 corresponding to the ratchet tooth 76 with the smallest stationary angle D among the plurality of ratchet teeth 76. Therefore, the guide wheel assembly 46 will be stationary relative to the movable component 44 at a stationary angle D corresponding to the engaged ratchet tooth 76. If the operator rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2, the positioning pawl 58A engages with the ratchet tooth 76 corresponding to the second smallest rest angle D among the plurality of ratchet teeth 76. By successively rotating the guide wheel assembly 46 around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2, the operator can successively increase the rest angle D.

If the operator, with the locating pawl 58A engaged with the ratchet tooth 76 corresponding to the ratchet tooth 76 with the largest rest angle D among the plurality of ratchet teeth 76, further rotates the guide wheel assembly 46 around the first rotation axis C1 in the second rotation direction X2, then the locating pawl 58A moves along the cam surface 56E. Therefore, the state of the rear transmission 40 changes from maintenance state to normal state.

<Example of Variation>

The descriptions of each embodiment are examples of the forms obtained by the rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle disclosed herein, and are not intended to limit its forms. The rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle disclosed herein can be obtained as shown in the following variations, as well as forms combining at least two non-contradictory variations. In the following variations, the parts common to the forms of each embodiment are marked with the same symbols as in each embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted.

• The cover component 74 can also be configured to cover the entire stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54. In this case, the release pawl 60A can be actuated by the brake, and the brake can also actuate the release pawl 60A by a signal from the manual operation unit 60B provided on the handlebar 34.

• The positioning ratchet component 56 can also be configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly 46 about the first rotation axis C1 only in the second rotation direction X2. In this case, for example, the positioning ratchet component 56 is mounted to the movable component 44 via a one-way clutch.

• The rear transmission 40 is configured to include: a base member 42, which is mounted on the frame 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10; a movable member 44, which is movably configured relative to the base member 42; and a guide wheel assembly 46, which is rotatably mounted on the movable member 44 about a first rotation axis C1 along a first rotation direction X1 and a second rotation direction X2 opposite to the first rotation direction X1; and the guide wheel assembly 46 includes: at least one of an outer plate 48 and an inner plate 50; at least one guide wheel 52, which is rotatably disposed about at least one guide wheel axis CP on at least one of the outer plate 48 and the inner plate 50; and a stationary angle adjustment mechanism 5. 4. It is configured to adjust the stationary angle D of the guide wheel assembly 46 relative to the movable member 44; the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 includes: a positioning ratchet member 56, which is configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly 46 about a first rotation axis C1 along a first rotation direction X1 and a second rotation direction X2, and has at least one ratchet tooth 56A; a positioning pawl member 58, which is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member 44 about a second rotation axis C2 away from the first rotation axis C1, and has a positioning pawl 58A configured to engage with at least one ratchet tooth 56A of the positioning ratchet member 56; then other components can be omitted. For example, the release pawl member 60 can be omitted from the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54. In this case, for example, a manual operation unit can also be provided on the positioning claw component 58.

• In the above variation, the stationary angle adjustment mechanism 54 may include: a release pawl member 60, which is rotatably mounted on the movable member 44 around a third rotation axis C3 away from the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2, and the release pawl member 60 may have: a release pawl 60A, configured to engage with the engaging portion 58B of the positioning pawl member 58 in a manner that releases the positioning pawl 58A of the positioning pawl member 58 from at least one ratchet tooth 56A of the positioning ratchet member 56.

• The term "at least one" as used in this manual means "more than one" of the desired options. For example, if there are two options, it means either "only one option" or "both of the two options." As another example, if there are three or more options, it means either "only one option" or "a combination of two or more options."

54: Stationary Angle Adjustment Mechanism

56: Positioning ratchet component

56A: Ratchet Tooth

56C: Anti-rotation part

56D: Outermost tooth cusp

56E: Cam face

58: Positioning claw component

58A: Positioning claw

58B: Fastening part

60: Release the claw component

60A: Release Claws

60B: Manual Operation Unit

72: Pivot Component

C1: First rotational axis

C2: Second rotation axis

C3: Third rotational axis

L1: Tooth length

L2: Maximum cam length

X1: First rotation direction

X2: Second rotation direction

X3: Third rotation direction

X4: Fourth rotation direction

X5: Fifth rotation direction

X6: Sixth rotation direction

Claims (17)

A rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a base member configured to be mounted on the frame of the human-powered vehicle; a movable member configured to be movable relative to the base member; and a guide wheel assembly rotatably mounted on the movable member about a first axis of rotation in a first direction of rotation and in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation; and the guide wheel assembly comprising: at least one of an outer plate and an inner plate; at least one guide wheel rotatably disposed on the outer plate and the inner plate about at least one guide wheel axis; and a stationary angle adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable member; The aforementioned stationary angle adjustment mechanism comprises: a positioning ratchet component, which is configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly about the first rotation axis and has at least one ratchet tooth; a positioning pawl component, which is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable component about a second rotation axis away from the first rotation axis and has a positioning pawl and a locking portion, the positioning pawl being configured to engage with the at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet component; and The release pawl component is configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable component around a third rotation axis, which is located away from the first and second rotation axes. It has a release pawl configured to engage with the engagement portion of the positioning pawl component in a manner that releases the positioning pawl of the positioning pawl component from at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet component. As in the gearbox following claim 1, the aforementioned positioning ratchet component is mounted on the guide wheel assembly in such a manner that it rotates integrally with the guide wheel assembly about the aforementioned first rotation axis along the aforementioned first rotation direction and in the aforementioned second rotation direction opposite to the aforementioned first rotation direction. As in the gearbox following claim 1 or 2, the aforementioned outer plate and the aforementioned inner plate comprise both the outer plate and the inner plate; the aforementioned at least one guide wheel is rotatably disposed between the outer plate and the inner plate about its axis. As in the gearbox following request item 1 or 2, the aforementioned positioning ratchet member has a cam surface configured such that the positioning pawl of the aforementioned positioning pawl member is pushed back by means of the aforementioned engaging portion of the aforementioned positioning pawl member engaging with the aforementioned releasing pawl of the aforementioned releasing pawl member. For example, in the gearbox following request 4, the aforementioned cam surface has curvature. For example, in the gearbox following request item 4, the aforementioned cam surface is a smooth surface. As in request 4, the gearbox has the aforementioned cam face adjacent to at least one of the aforementioned ratchet teeth. As in the gearbox following claim 4, at least one ratchet tooth has an outermost tooth tip; the length of the tooth is defined from the first rotation axis to the outermost tooth tip; the maximum cam length is defined from the first rotation axis to the maximum length of the cam face; the maximum cam length is greater than the length of the tooth. For example, in request item 1 or 2, the gearbox includes at least one ratchet tooth comprising a plurality of ratchet teeth. The transmission following claim 1 or 2 further comprises: a guide wheel assembly spring-pushing component, which is arranged around the first rotation axis in such a way that it springs the guide wheel assembly along the first rotation direction of the base component near at least one guide wheel. The gearbox following claim 1 or 2 further comprises: a locating pawl pusher mechanism disposed about the second rotational axis; and the locating pawl mechanism is rotatably mounted on the movable member about the second rotational axis in a third rotational direction and in a fourth rotational direction opposite to the third rotational direction; the locating pawl pusher mechanism pushes the locating pawl mechanism towards the locating ratchet mechanism in the third rotational direction. The transmission following claim 1 or 2 further comprises: a release pawl pusher mechanism disposed about the aforementioned third rotational axis; and the release pawl mechanism is rotatably mounted on the aforementioned movable member about the aforementioned third rotational axis in a fifth rotational direction and in a sixth rotational direction opposite to the fifth rotational direction; the release pawl pusher mechanism pushes the release pawl mechanism along the aforementioned fifth rotational direction where the release pawl of the release pawl approaches the aforementioned engaging portion of the aforementioned positioning pawl mechanism. As in claim 1 or 2, the transmission wherein the at least one guide wheel comprises: a guide wheel rotatably disposed about the outer plate and the inner plate about a guide wheel rotation axis; and a tension guide wheel rotatably disposed about the outer plate and the inner plate about a tension guide wheel rotation axis. As in the gearbox following request item 1 or 2, the aforementioned release pawl mechanism includes a manual operation unit configured to be operated by a user in a manner that releases the aforementioned engaging portion of the aforementioned positioning pawl mechanism from the aforementioned release pawl of the aforementioned release pawl mechanism. The transmission following claim 1 or 2 further comprises: a cover component configured to cover at least a portion of the aforementioned stationary angle adjustment mechanism. A rear transmission for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a base member mounted on the frame of the human-powered vehicle; a movable member movable relative to the base member; and a guide wheel assembly rotatably mounted on the movable member about a first axis of rotation in a first direction of rotation and in a second direction of rotation opposite to the first direction of rotation; and the guide wheel assembly comprising: at least one of an outer plate and an inner plate; at least one guide wheel rotatably disposed about at least one guide wheel axis on the outer plate and the inner plate; and a stationary angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting the stationary angle of the guide wheel assembly relative to the movable member; The aforementioned stationary angle adjustment mechanism comprises: a positioning ratchet component, configured to rotate integrally with the guide wheel assembly about the first rotation axis in the first and second rotation directions, and having at least one ratchet tooth; and a positioning pawl component, configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable component about a second rotation axis away from the first rotation axis, and having a positioning pawl that engages with the at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet component. As in claim 16 and subsequent gearboxes, the aforementioned stationary angle adjustment mechanism includes: a release pawl member configured to be rotatably mounted on the movable member about a third rotational axis away from the first and second rotational axes; the release pawl member has: a release pawl configured to engage with the engagement portion of the positioning pawl member in a manner that releases the positioning pawl of the positioning pawl member from at least one ratchet tooth of the positioning ratchet member.