CN108974234B

CN108974234B - Bicycle hub assembly

Info

Publication number: CN108974234B
Application number: CN201810445779.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 藤田宽司; 腰山和喜; 中西崇
Original assignee: Shimano Inc
Current assignee: Shimano Inc
Priority date: 2017-05-30
Filing date: 2018-05-11
Publication date: 2021-01-08
Anticipated expiration: 2038-05-11
Also published as: TW202327933A; DE102018111272A1; DE102018008578A1; JP2018203239A; CN112722145B; DE102018111273A1; CN108974233A; TWI823006B; TWI707800B; CN114572337A; TW202402562A; TW201900444A; CN112722145A; CN108974234A; DE202018106135U1; JP6642933B2; CN108974233B; CN114572337B; TW201900492A; TW202116617A

Abstract

The bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least ten external spline teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. Each of the at least ten externally splined teeth has an externally splined driving surface and an externally splined non-driving surface.

Description

Bicycle hub assembly

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a bicycle hub assembly.

Background

Bicycling is becoming an increasingly more 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. One bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is the hub assembly.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least ten external spline teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. Each of the at least ten externally splined teeth has an externally splined driving surface and an externally splined non-driving surface.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the first aspect, the at least ten external spline teeth reduce the rotational force applied to each of the at least ten external spline teeth as compared to the sprocket support body that includes nine or less external spline teeth. This improves the durability of the sprocket support body and/or improves the freedom of material selection of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the first aspect is configured such that the total number of the at least ten external spline teeth is equal to or greater than 20.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the second aspect, the at least twenty external spline teeth further reduce the rotational force applied to each of the at least twenty external spline teeth as compared to a sprocket support body that includes nine or less external spline teeth. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and/or the freedom of material selection of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the second aspect is configured such that the total number of the at least ten external spline teeth is equal to or greater than 25.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the third aspect, the at least twenty-five external spline teeth further reduce the rotational force applied to each of the at least twenty-five external spline teeth as compared to a sprocket support body that includes nine or less external spline teeth. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and/or the freedom of material selection of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the at least ten external spline teeth have a first external pitch angle and a second external pitch angle different from the first external pitch angle.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourth aspect, the difference between the first and second outer pitch angles assists the user in properly mounting the bicycle hub assembly to the bicycle rear sprocket assembly, particularly with respect to the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured such that at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline shape that is different from a second spline shape of another one of the at least ten external spline teeth.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fifth aspect, the difference between the first spline shape and the second spline shape assists the user in properly mounting the bicycle rear sprocket assembly to the bicycle hub assembly, particularly with respect to the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured such that at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline dimension that is different from a second spline dimension of another one of the at least ten external spline teeth.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the sixth aspect, the difference between the first spline dimension and the second spline dimension assists the user in properly mounting the bicycle rear sprocket assembly to the bicycle hub assembly, particularly with respect to the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured such that the at least ten external spline teeth each have a circumferential maximum width. The sum of the circumferential maximum widths is equal to or greater than 55 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventh aspect, the strength of at least ten external spline teeth in the shearing direction can be improved.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventh aspect is configured such that the total of the circumferential maximum widths is equal to or greater than 60 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the eighth aspect, the strength of at least ten external spline teeth in the shearing direction can be further improved.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the eighth aspect is configured such that the total of the circumferential maximum widths is equal to or greater than 65 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the ninth aspect, the strength of at least ten external spline teeth in the shearing direction can be further improved.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes a plurality of externally splined teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. At least two of the plurality of external spline teeth are circumferentially arranged at a first external pitch angle relative to a center axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly. The first outer pitch angle ranges from 10 degrees to 20 degrees.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the tenth aspect, the first outer pitch angle reduces the rotational force applied to each of the at least two outer spline teeth as compared to a sprocket support body having an outer pitch angle that is greater than the first outer pitch angle. This improves the durability of the sprocket support body and/or improves the freedom of material selection of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the tenth aspect is configured such that the first outer pitch angle ranges from 12 degrees to 15 degrees.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the eleventh aspect, the first outer pitch angle further reduces the rotational force applied to each of the at least two outer spline teeth as compared to a sprocket support body having an outer pitch angle that is greater than the first outer pitch angle. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and/or the freedom of material selection of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the eleventh aspect is configured such that the first outer pitch angle ranges from 13 degrees to 14 degrees.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect, the first outer pitch angle further reduces the rotational force applied to each of the at least two outer spline teeth as compared to a sprocket support body having an outer pitch angle that is greater than the first outer pitch angle. This further improves the durability of the sprocket support body and/or the freedom of material selection of the sprocket support body without reducing the durability of the sprocket support body.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the tenth to twelfth aspects is configured such that at least two of the plurality of external spline teeth are circumferentially arranged at a second external pitch angle with respect to the rotational center axis of the bicycle hub assembly. The second outer pitch angle is different from the first outer pitch angle.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, the difference between the first and second outer pitch angles assists the user in properly mounting the bicycle rear sprocket assembly to the bicycle hub assembly, particularly with respect to the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least one externally splined tooth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. The at least one external spline tooth has an external spline crest diameter equal to or less than 30 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, the external spline top diameter enables the bicycle hub assembly to mount a bicycle rear sprocket assembly including a sprocket having ten or fewer sprocket teeth to the bicycle hub assembly. This widens the range of gears of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly mounted to the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect further comprises a brake rotor support body comprising at least one additional external spline tooth configured to engage with a bicycle brake rotor. The at least one additional external spline tooth has an additional external spline crest diameter that is greater than the external spline crest diameter.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the brake rotor support body improves braking performance and widens the range of gears of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly mounted to the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourteenth or fifteenth aspect is configured such that the external spline top diameter is equal to or greater than 25 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body and enable the bicycle hub assembly to mount a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, which includes a sprocket having ten or less sprocket teeth, to the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the external spline top diameter is greater than or equal to 29 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body and enable the bicycle hub assembly to mount a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, which includes a sprocket having ten or less sprocket teeth, to the bicycle hub assembly.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the fourteenth to seventeenth aspects is configured such that the at least one externally splined tooth has an externally splined bottom diameter. The bottom diameter of the external spline is equal to or less than 28 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the eighteenth aspect, the outer spline bottom diameter can increase the radial length of the drive surface of the at least one outer spline tooth. This improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the eighteenth aspect is configured such that the outer spline bottom diameter is equal to or greater than 25 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to determine to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body and to widen the shift range of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly mounted to the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the outer spline bottom diameter is equal to or greater than 27 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twentieth aspect, it is possible to determine to ensure the strength of the sprocket support body and to widen the shift range of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly mounted to the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the fourteenth to twentieth aspects is configured such that the at least one externally splined tooth includes a plurality of externally splined teeth including a plurality of externally splined driving surfaces to receive a driving rotational force from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly during pedaling. The plurality of externally splined drive surfaces each comprise a radially outermost edge, a radially innermost edge, and a radial length defined from the radially outermost edge to the radially innermost edge. A sum of the radial lengths of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces is equal to or greater than 7 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-first aspect, the radial length of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces can be increased. This improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-first aspect is configured such that the sum of the radial lengths is equal to or greater than 10 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-second aspect, the radial length of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces can be further increased. This further improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-second aspect is configured such that the sum of the radial lengths is equal to or greater than 15 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-third aspect, the radial length of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces can be further increased. This further improves the strength of the sprocket support body.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the fourteenth to twenty-third aspects is configured such that the sprocket support body includes a larger diameter portion having an outer diameter larger than the outer spline top diameter.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the degree of freedom in design of the internal structure of the bicycle hub assembly can be improved. For example, a drive structure such as a one-way clutch structure may be housed within an inner cavity of such a larger diameter portion of the sprocket support body.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-fourth aspect is configured such that the outer diameter ranges from 32mm to 40 mm.

By using the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-fifth aspect, the degree of freedom in design of the internal structure of the bicycle hub assembly can be further improved. For example, a drive structure such as a one-way clutch structure can be easily provided in the inner cavity of such a larger diameter portion.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-fourth aspect further comprises a hub axle comprising an axial contact surface for contacting a bicycle frame. The sprocket support body is rotatably mounted on the drum shaft about a central axis of rotation. A first axial length is defined in an axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis from the axial contact surface to the larger diameter portion. The first axial length ranges from 35mm to 41 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-sixth aspect, the axial length of the at least one external spline tooth can be ensured.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-sixth aspect is configured such that the first axial length is equal to or greater than 39 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-seventh aspect, the axial length of the at least one external spline tooth can be further ensured.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-sixth aspect is configured such that the first axial length ranges from 35mm to 37 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-eighth aspect, the axial length of the at least one external spline tooth can be further ensured.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-sixth aspect is configured such that the larger diameter portion has an axial end portion that is farthest from the axial contact surface in the axial direction. A second axial length is defined in the axial direction from the axial contact surface to the axial end. The second axial length ranges from 38mm to 47 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-ninth aspect, the axial length of the at least one external spline tooth can be ensured, and the degree of freedom in design of the internal structure of the bicycle hub assembly is improved.

According to a thirtieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-ninth aspect is configured such that the second axial length ranges from 44mm to 45 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirtieth aspect, it is possible to further ensure the axial length of the at least one external spline tooth and improve the degree of freedom in design of the internal structure of the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a thirty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the twenty-ninth aspect is configured such that the second axial length ranges from 40mm to 41 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-first aspect, it is possible to further ensure the axial length of the at least one external spline tooth and improve the degree of freedom in design of the internal structure of the bicycle hub assembly.

According to a thirty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the twenty-fourth to thirty-first aspects is configured such that the axial length of the larger diameter portion ranges from 3mm to 6 mm.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-second aspect, the degree of freedom in design of the internal structure of the bicycle hub assembly can be further improved. For example, a drive structure such as a one-way clutch structure may be housed within an inner cavity of such a larger diameter portion of the sprocket support body.

According to a thirty-third aspect of the present invention, a bicycle hub assembly includes a sprocket support body. The sprocket support body includes at least nine externally splined teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly. At least one of the at least nine external spline teeth has an asymmetrical shape with respect to a circumferential tooth tip centerline. The at least one of the at least nine externally splined teeth includes an externally splined driving surface and an externally splined non-driving surface. The externally splined drive surface has a first externally splined surface angle defined between the externally splined drive surface and a first radial line extending from a center axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly to a radially outermost edge of the externally splined drive surface. The externally splined non-driving surface has a second externally splined surface angle defined between the externally splined non-driving surface and a second radial line extending from the central axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly to a radially outermost edge of the externally splined non-driving surface. The second external spline surface angle is different from the first external spline surface angle.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to reduce the weight of the sprocket support body and ensure the strength of the external spline teeth of the sprocket support body.

In accordance with a thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-third aspect is configured such that the first externally splined surface angle is less than the second externally splined surface angle.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-fourth aspect, it is possible to effectively reduce the weight of the sprocket support body and ensure the strength of the outer spline teeth of the sprocket support body.

In accordance with a thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-third or thirty-fourth aspect is configured such that the first external spline surface angle ranges from 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-fifth aspect, the first externally splined surface angle ensures the strength of the externally splined driving surface.

According to a thirty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the thirty-third to thirty-fifth aspects is configured such that the second externally splined surface angle ranges from 0 degrees to 60 degrees.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirty-sixth aspect, the second externally splined surface angle reduces the weight of the externally splined teeth of the sprocket support body.

According to a thirty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the thirty-third to thirty-sixth aspects is configured such that the at least ten external spline teeth have a first external pitch angle and a second external pitch angle different from the first external pitch angle.

With the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventeenth aspect, the difference between the first and second outer pitch angles assists the user in properly mounting the bicycle rear sprocket assembly to the bicycle hub assembly, particularly with respect to the circumferential position of each sprocket in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.

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 schematic diagram of a bicycle drive train in accordance with one embodiment.

Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle drive train illustrated in fig. 1.

FIG. 3 is another perspective view of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

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

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the sprocket support body of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the sprocket support body of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the sprocket support body illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of a sprocket support body of a bicycle hub assembly in accordance with a variation.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view of the bicycle hub assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle hub assembly taken along line XVI-XVI of FIG. 5.

FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

Fig. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in fig. 17.

FIG. 19 is a partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 is another partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 21 is another partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 22 is another partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 23 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly taken along line XXIII-XXIII of FIG. 17.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the smallest sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 25 is another perspective view of the smallest sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the smallest sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a smallest sprocket according to a variation.

FIG. 28 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the smallest sprocket illustrated in FIG. 24.

FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the smallest sprocket illustrated in FIG. 24.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the sprocket support body and the smallest sprocket of the bicycle drive train illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 31 is a partially exploded perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the sprocket support of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 17.

Detailed Description

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

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a bicycle drive train 10 in accordance with one embodiment includes a bicycle hub assembly 12 and a bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The bicycle hub assembly 12 is secured to the bicycle frame BF. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is mounted to the bicycle hub assembly 12. The bicycle brake rotor 16 is mounted on the bicycle hub assembly 12.

The bicycle drive train 10 further includes a crank assembly 18 and a bicycle chain 20. The crank assembly 18 includes a crank axle 22, a right crank arm 24, a left crank arm 26, and a front sprocket 27. A right crank arm 24 and a left crank arm 26 are fixed to the crank axle 22. The front sprockets 27 are fixed to at least one of the crank axle 22 and the right crank arm 24. The bicycle chain 20 engages the front sprocket 27 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to transmit a pedaling force from the front sprocket 27 to the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the crank assembly 18 includes the front sprocket 27 as a single sprocket. However, the crank assembly 18 may include a plurality of front sprockets. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is a rear sprocket assembly. However, the structure of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 can be applied to a front sprocket.

In this application, the following directional terms "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward" and "downward" as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions which are determined based on a user (e.g., a rider) seated on a saddle (not shown) of a bicycle facing a handlebar (not shown). Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle drive train 10, the bicycle hub assembly 12, or the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 should be interpreted relative to a bicycle equipped with the bicycle drive train 10, the bicycle hub assembly 12, or the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

As seen in fig. 2 and 3, the bicycle hub assembly 12 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 have a center axis of rotation a 1. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is rotatably supported by the bicycle hub assembly 12 about a rotational center axis A1 with respect to the bicycle frame BF (FIG. 1). The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is configured to engage the bicycle chain 20 to transmit a driving rotational force F1 between the bicycle chain 20 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 during pedaling. During pedaling, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 rotates in a driving rotational direction D11 about the center axis of rotation a 1. The driving rotational direction D11 is defined in a circumferential direction D1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 or the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The opposite rotational direction D12 is the opposite direction from the drive rotational direction D11 and is defined in the circumferential direction D1.

As seen in fig. 2, the bicycle hub assembly 12 includes a sprocket support body 28. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is mounted on the sprocket support body 28 to transmit a driving rotational force F1 between the sprocket support body 28 and the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. The bicycle hub assembly 12 also includes a hub axle 30. The sprocket support body 28 is rotatably mounted on the drum shaft 30 about a center axis of rotation a 1. The bicycle hub assembly 12 includes a locking ring 32. The locking ring 32 is fixed to the sprocket support body 28 to retain the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 relative to the sprocket support body 28 in an axial direction D2 that is parallel to the rotational center axis a 1.

As seen in fig. 4, the bicycle hub assembly 12 is secured to the bicycle frame BF by a wheel securing structure WS. The hub axle 30 has a through hole 30A. The fixing rod WS1 of the wheel fixing structure WS extends through the through hole 30A of the hub axle 30. The drum shaft 30 includes a first shaft end 30B and a second shaft end 30C. The dram shaft 30 extends along a central axis of rotation a1 between a first shaft end 30B and a second shaft end 30C. The first shaft end portion 30B is disposed in the first recess BF11 of the first frame BF1 of the bicycle frame BF. The second shaft end 30C is disposed in the second recess BF21 of the second frame BF2 of the bicycle frame BF. The hub axle 30 is held between the first frame BF1 and the second frame BF2 by the wheel securing structure WS. The wheel securing structure WS comprises a structure known in the bicycle art. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail herein.

As seen in fig. 4 and 5, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further includes a brake rotor support body 34. The brake rotor support body 34 is rotatably mounted on the drum shaft 30 about a center axis of rotation a 1. The brake rotor support body 34 is coupled to the bicycle brake rotor 16 (fig. 1) to transmit a braking rotational force from the bicycle brake rotor 16 to the brake rotor support body 34.

As seen in fig. 5, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further includes a hub body 36. The hub body 36 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle 30 about a center axis of rotation a 1. In this embodiment, the sprocket support body 28 is a separate member from the hub body 36. The brake rotor support body 34 is integrally provided as a one-piece, unitary member with the hub body 36. However, the sprocket support body 28 may be provided integrally with the hub body 36. The brake rotor support body 34 may be a separate component from the hub body 36.

The hub body 36 includes a first flange 36A and a second flange 36B. A first spoke (not shown) is coupled to the first flange 36A. A second spoke (not shown) is coupled to the second flange 36B. The second flange 36B is spaced from the first flange 36A along the axial direction D2. The first flange 36A is disposed between the sprocket support body 28 and the second flange 36B in the axial direction D2. The second flange 36B is disposed between the first flange 36A and the brake rotor support body 34 in the axial direction D2.

The locking ring 32 includes an externally threaded portion 32A. The sprocket support body 28 includes an internal threaded portion 28A. The male threaded portion 32A is threadedly engaged with the female threaded portion 28A in a state where the lock ring 32 is fixed to the sprocket support body 28.

As seen in fig. 6, the bicycle hub assembly 12 further includes a ratchet structure 38. The sprocket support body 28 is operatively coupled to the hub body 36 by a ratchet structure 38. The ratchet structure 38 is configured to couple the sprocket support body 28 to the hub body 36 to rotate the sprocket support body 28 with the hub body 36 in the drive rotation direction D11 (fig. 5) during pedaling. The ratchet structure 38 is configured to allow the sprocket support body 28 to rotate in an opposite rotational direction D12 (fig. 5) relative to the hub body 36 during coasting. Thus, the ratchet structure 38 can be interpreted as a one-way clutch structure 38. The ratchet structure 38 comprises a structure known in the bicycle art. Therefore, they will not be described in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

The bicycle hub assembly 12 includes a first bearing 39A and a second bearing 39B. The first bearing 39A and the second bearing 39B are disposed between the sprocket support body 28 and the hub axle 30 to rotatably support the sprocket support body 28 about the rotational center axis a1 with respect to the hub axle 30.

In this embodiment, each of the sprocket support body 28, the brake rotor support body 34 and the hub body 36 is made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron or titanium. However, at least one of the sprocket support body 28, the brake rotor support body 34 and the hub body 36 can be made of a non-metallic material.

As seen in fig. 7 and 8, the sprocket support body 28 includes at least one external spline tooth 40 configured to engage the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (fig. 6). The sprocket support body 28 includes a plurality of external spline teeth 40 configured to engage the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (fig. 6). That is, the at least one external spline tooth 40 includes a plurality of external spline teeth 40. The sprocket support body 28 includes at least nine externally splined teeth 40 configured to engage the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (fig. 6). The sprocket support body 28 includes at least ten external spline teeth 40 configured to engage the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (fig. 6).

The sprocket support body 28 includes a tubular base support 41. The base support 41 extends along a central axis of rotation a 1. The outer spline teeth 40 extend radially outward from the base support 41. The sprocket support body 28 includes a larger diameter portion 42, a flange 44 and a plurality of helical outer spline teeth 46. The larger diameter portion 42 and the flange 44 extend radially outward from the base support 41. The larger diameter portion 42 is disposed between the plurality of external spline teeth 40 and the flange 44 in the axial direction D2. The larger diameter portion 42 and the flange 44 are disposed between the plurality of external spline teeth 40 and the plurality of helical external spline teeth 46 in the axial direction D2. As seen in fig. 6, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is held between the larger diameter portion 42 and the locking flange 32B of the locking ring 32 in the axial direction D2. The larger diameter portion 42 may have an internal cavity such that a drive structure, such as a one-way clutch structure, may be received within the internal cavity. The larger diameter portion 42 can be omitted from the bicycle hub assembly 12 as desired.

As shown in fig. 9, the total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is equal to or greater than 20. The total of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is equal to or greater than 25. In this embodiment, the total number of at least ten external spline teeth 40 is 26. However, the total number of the external spline teeth 40 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

At least ten of the external spline teeth 40 have a first external pitch angle PA11 and a second external pitch angle PA 12. At least two of the plurality of external spline teeth 40 are circumferentially arranged at a first external pitch angle PA11 relative to the center axis of rotation A1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12. At least two of the plurality of external spline teeth 40 are circumferentially arranged at a second external pitch angle PA12 relative to the rotational center axis a1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12. In this embodiment, the second outer pitch angle PA12 is different from the first outer pitch angle PA 11. However, the second outer pitch angle PA12 may be substantially equal to the first outer pitch angle PA 11.

In this embodiment, the plurality of external spline teeth 40 are arranged at a first external pitch angle PA11 in the circumferential direction D1. Two of the plurality of outer spline teeth 40 are arranged at a second outer pitch angle PA12 in the circumferential direction D1. However, at least two of the plurality of external spline teeth 40 may be arranged at additional external pitch angles in the circumferential direction D1.

The first outer pitch angle PA11 ranges from 10 degrees to 20 degrees. The first outer pitch angle PA11 ranges from 12 degrees to 15 degrees. The first outer pitch angle PA11 ranges from 13 degrees to 14 degrees. In this embodiment, the first outer pitch angle PA11 is 13.3 degrees. However, the first external pitch angle PA11 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

The second outer pitch angle PA12 ranges from 5 degrees to 30 degrees. In this embodiment, the second outer pitch angle PA12 is 26 degrees. However, the second outer pitch angle PA12 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

The external spline teeth 40 have substantially the same shape as each other. The external spline teeth 40 have substantially the same spline dimensions as each other. The external spline teeth 40 have substantially the same profile as each other when viewed along the rotational center axis a 1. However, as shown in fig. 10, at least one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 may have a first spline shape that is different from a second spline shape of another one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40. At least one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 may have a first spline dimension that is different from a second spline dimension of another of the at least ten external spline teeth 40. At least one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 may have a profile that is different from a profile of another one of the at least ten external spline teeth 40 when viewed along the rotational center axis a 1. In fig. 10, one of the external spline teeth 40 has a spline shape different from the spline shape of the other teeth of the external spline teeth 40. One of the external spline teeth 40 has a spline size that is different from the spline size of the other of the external spline teeth 40. When viewed along the rotational center axis a1, one of the external spline teeth 40 has a different profile than the other teeth of the external spline teeth 40.

As shown in fig. 11, each of the at least ten externally splined teeth 40 has an externally splined driving surface 48 and an externally splined non-driving surface 50. The plurality of externally splined teeth 40 include a plurality of externally splined drive surfaces 48 to receive a driving rotational force F1 from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (fig. 6) during pedaling. The plurality of externally splined teeth 40 includes a plurality of externally splined non-drive surfaces 50. The externally splined driving surface 48 is contactable with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to receive a driving rotational force F1 from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 (fig. 6) during pedaling. The externally splined drive surface 48 faces in the opposite rotational direction D12. The externally splined non-drive surface 50 is disposed on an opposite side of the externally splined drive surface 48 in the circumferential direction D1. The externally splined non-driving surface 50 faces in the driving rotation direction D11 and does not receive the driving rotation force F1 from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 during pedaling.

At least ten of the external spline teeth 40 each have a circumferential maximum width MW 1. The plurality of external spline teeth 40 each have a circumferential maximum width MW 1. The circumferential maximum width MW1 is defined as the maximum width that receives the thrust F2 applied to the external spline teeth 40. The circumferential maximum width MW1 is defined as the linear distance based on the externally splined drive surface 48.

The plurality of externally splined drive surfaces 48 each include a radially outermost edge 48A and a radially innermost edge 48B. The externally splined drive surface 48 extends from a radially outermost edge 48A to a radially innermost edge 48B. A first reference circle RC11 is defined on the radially innermost edge 48B and is centered on the rotational center axis a 1. A first reference circle RC11 intersects male spline non-driving surface 50 at reference point 50R. Circumferential maximum width MW1 extends linearly in circumferential direction D1 from radially innermost edge 48B to reference point 50R.

The plurality of externally splined non-driving surfaces 50 each include a radially outermost edge 50A and a radially innermost edge 50B. The externally splined non-driving surface 50 extends from a radially outermost edge 50A to a radially innermost edge 50B. A reference point 50R is disposed between the radially outermost edge 50A and the radially innermost edge 50B. However, reference point 50R may coincide with radially innermost edge 50B.

The sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 55 mm. The sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 60 mm. The sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW1 is equal to or greater than 65 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW1 is 68 mm. However, the sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW1 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

As shown in fig. 12, at least one of the externally splined teeth 40 has an externally splined top diameter DM 11. The external spline crest diameter DM11 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The external spline crest diameter DM11 is equal to or greater than 29 mm. And the external spline top diameter DM11 is equal to or less than 30 mm. In this embodiment, the external spline crest diameter DM11 is 29.6 mm. However, the external spline crest diameter DM11 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

At least one of the externally splined teeth 40 has an externally splined bottom diameter DM 12. The at least one external spline tooth 40 has an external spline root circle RC12, the external spline root circle RC12 having an external spline base diameter DM 12. However, the outer spline root circle RC12 may have another diameter than the outer spline base diameter DM 12. The external spline bottom diameter DM12 is equal to or less than 28 mm. The external spline base diameter DM12 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The external spline base diameter DM12 is equal to or greater than 27 mm. In this embodiment, the external spline base diameter DM12 is 27.2 mm. However, the outer spline bottom diameter DM12 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

The larger diameter portion 42 has an outer diameter DM13 that is larger than the external spline crest diameter DM 11. The outer diameter DM13 ranged from 32mm to 40 mm. In this embodiment, the outer diameter DM13 is 35 mm. However, the outer diameter DM13 is not limited to this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 11, plurality of externally splined drive surfaces 48 each include a radial length RL11 defined from radially outermost edge 48A to radially innermost edge 48B. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces 48 is equal to or greater than 7 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 is equal to or greater than 10 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL11 is equal to or greater than 15 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the radial lengths RL11 is 19.5 mm. However, the sum of the radial lengths RL11 is not limited to this embodiment.

The plurality of external spline teeth 40 have an additional radial length RL 12. Additional radial lengths RL12 are defined from the outer spline root circle RC12 to the radially outermost ends 40A of the plurality of outer spline teeth 40, respectively. The sum of the additional radial lengths RL12 is equal to or greater than 12 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL12 is 31.85 mm. However, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL12 is not limited to this embodiment.

At least one of the at least nine external spline teeth 40 has an asymmetrical shape with respect to the circumferential tip centerline CL 1. The circumferential addendum center line CL1 is a line connecting the rotation center axis a1 and the circumferential center point CP1 of the radially outermost end 40A of the external spline tooth 40. However, at least one of the male spline teeth 40 may have a symmetrical shape with respect to the circumferential crest center line CL 1. At least one of the at least nine externally splined teeth 40 includes an externally splined driving surface 48 and an externally splined non-driving surface 50.

The externally splined drive surface 48 has a first externally splined surface angle AG 11. A first external spline surface angle AG11 is defined between external spline drive surface 48 and a first radial line L11. The first radial line L11 extends from the rotational center axis a1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 to the radially outermost edge 48A of the externally splined drive surface 48. A first outer pitch angle PA11 or a second outer pitch angle PA12 is defined between adjacent first radial lines L11 (see, e.g., fig. 9).

The externally splined non-driving surface 50 has a second externally splined surface angle AG 12. A second male spline surface angle AG12 is defined between the male spline non-drive surface 50 and a second radial line L12. The second radial line L12 extends from the rotational center axis a1 of the bicycle hub assembly 12 to the radially outermost edge 50A of the externally splined non-driving surface 50.

In this embodiment, second externally splined surface angle AG12 is different from first externally splined surface angle AG 11. The first externally splined surface angle AG11 is less than the second externally splined surface angle AG 12. However, first external spline surface angle AG11 may be equal to or greater than second external spline surface angle AG 12.

The first external spline surface angle AG11 ranges from 0 degrees to 10 degrees. The second externally splined surface angle AG12 ranges from 0 degrees to 60 degrees. In this embodiment, the first external spline surface angle AG11 is 5 degrees. The second externally splined surface angle AG12 is 45 degrees. However, first and second externally splined surface angles AG11, AG12 are not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

As seen in fig. 13 and 14, the brake rotor support body 34 includes at least one additional external spline tooth 52 configured to engage the bicycle brake rotor 16 (fig. 4). In this embodiment, the brake rotor support body 34 includes an additional base support 54 and a plurality of additional external spline teeth 52. The additional base support 54 has a tubular shape and extends from the hub body 36 along the rotational center axis a 1. Additional outer spline teeth 52 extend radially outward from an additional base support 54. The total number of additional external spline teeth 52 is 52. However, the total number of additional external spline teeth 52 is not limited to this embodiment.

As shown in fig. 14, at least one additional external spline tooth 52 has an additional external spline crest diameter DM 14. As shown in fig. 15, the additional external spline crest diameter DM14 is greater than the external spline crest diameter DM 11. The additional external spline crest diameter DM14 is substantially equal to the external diameter DM13 of the larger diameter portion 42. However, the additional outer spline crest diameter DM14 may be equal to or less than the outer spline crest diameter DM 11. The additional external spline crest diameter DM14 may be different from the external diameter DM13 of the larger diameter portion 42.

As shown in fig. 16, the hub axle 30 includes an axial contact surface 30B1 to contact the bicycle frame BF. In this embodiment, the axial contact surface 30B1 is contactable with the first frame BF1 of the bicycle frame BF. The first frame BF1 includes a frame contact surface BF 12. In a state where the bicycle hub assembly 12 is fixed to the bicycle frame BF by the wheel fixing structure WS, the axial contact surface 30B1 is in contact with the frame contact surface BF 12.

The first axial length AL11 is defined in the axial direction D2 relative to the rotational center axis a1 from the axial contact surface 30B1 to the larger diameter portion 42. The first axial length AL11 ranges from 35mm to 41 mm. The first axial length AL11 may be equal to or greater than 39 mm. The first axial length AL11 may also range from 35mm to 37 mm. In this embodiment, the first axial length AL11 is 36.2 mm. However, the first axial length AL11 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

The larger diameter portion 42 has an axial end 42A that is farthest from the axial contact surface 30B1 in the axial direction D2. The second axial length AL12 is defined in the axial direction D2 from the axial contact surface 30B1 to the axial end 42A. The second axial length AL12 ranges from 38mm to 47 mm. The second axial length AL12 may range from 44mm to 45 mm. The second axial length AL12 may also range from 40mm to 41 mm. In this embodiment, the second axial length AL12 is 40.75 mm. However, the second axial length AL12 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

The axial length AL13 of the larger diameter portion 42 ranges from 3mm to 6 mm. In this embodiment, the axial length AL13 is 4.55 mm. However, the axial length AL13 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

As seen in fig. 17, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 includes at least one sprocket. The at least one sprocket includes a smallest sprocket SP1 and a largest sprocket SP 12. The smallest sprocket SP1 can also be referred to as sprocket SP 1. The largest sprocket SP12 can also be referred to as sprocket SP 12. In this embodiment, the at least one sprocket further comprises sprockets SP2 to SP 11. The sprocket SP1 corresponds to the high gear. The sprocket SP12 corresponds to the low gear. The total number of sprockets of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 is not limited to this embodiment.

The smallest sprocket SP1 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 1B. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP1B of the smallest sprocket SP1 is equal to or less than 10. In this embodiment, the total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the smallest sprocket SP1 is 10. However, the total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP1B of the minimum sprocket SP1 is not limited to the embodiment and the above range.

The largest sprocket SP12 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 12B. The total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is equal to or greater than 46. The total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is equal to or greater than 50. In this embodiment, the total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is 51. However, the total number of the at least one sprocket tooth SP12B of the largest sprocket SP12 is not limited to the embodiment and the above range.

The sprocket SP2 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 2B. The sprocket SP3 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 3B. The sprocket SP4 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 4B. The sprocket SP5 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 5B. The sprocket SP6 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 6B. The sprocket SP7 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 7B. The sprocket SP8 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 8B. The sprocket SP9 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 9B. The sprocket SP10 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 10B. The sprocket SP11 includes at least one sprocket tooth SP 11B.

The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP2B is 12. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP3B is 14. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP4B is 16. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP5B is 18. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP6B is 21. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP7B is 24. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP8B is 28. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP9B is 33. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP10B is 39. The total number of the at least one sprocket teeth SP11B is 45. The total number of sprocket teeth of each of the sprockets SP2 to SP11 is not limited to this embodiment.

As shown in fig. 18, the sprockets SP1 to SP12 are members separate from each other. However, at least one of the sprockets SP1 to SP12 can be at least partially integrally provided with another one of the sprockets SP1 to SP 12. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 includes a sprocket support 56, a plurality of spacers 58, a first ring 59A and a second ring 59B. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprockets SP1 to SP12 are attached to the sprocket support 56.

As shown in fig. 19, the sprocket SP1 includes a sprocket body SP1A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 1B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP1B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 1A. The sprocket SP2 includes a sprocket body SP2A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 2B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP2B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 2A. The sprocket SP3 includes a sprocket body SP3A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 3B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP3B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 3A. The sprocket SP4 includes a sprocket body SP4A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 4B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP4B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 4A. The sprocket SP5 includes a sprocket body SP5A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 5B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP5B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 5A. The first ring 59A is disposed between the sprocket SP3 and the sprocket SP 4. The second ring 59B is disposed between the sprocket SP4 and the sprocket SP 5.

As shown in fig. 20, the sprocket SP6 includes a sprocket body SP6A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 6B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP6B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 6A. The sprocket SP7 includes a sprocket body SP7A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 7B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP7B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 7A. The sprocket SP8 includes a sprocket body SP8A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 8B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP8B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 8A.

As shown in fig. 21, the sprocket SP9 includes a sprocket body SP9A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 9B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP9B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 9A. The sprocket SP10 includes a sprocket body SP10A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 10B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP10B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 10A. The sprocket SP11 includes a sprocket body SP11A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 11B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP11B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 11A. The sprocket SP12 includes a sprocket body SP12A and a plurality of sprocket teeth SP 12B. A plurality of sprocket teeth SP12B extend radially outward from the sprocket body SP 12A.

As shown in fig. 22, the sprocket support 56 includes a hub engaging portion 60 and a plurality of support arms 62. A plurality of support arms 62 extend radially outward from the hub engagement portion 60. The support arm 62 includes first to eighth attachment portions 62A to 62H. The plurality of spacers 58 includes a plurality of first spacers 58A, a plurality of second spacers 58B, a plurality of third spacers 58C, a plurality of fourth spacers 58D, a plurality of fifth spacers 58E, a plurality of sixth spacers 58F, and a plurality of seventh spacers 58G.

As shown in fig. 23, the first spacer 58A is disposed between the sprocket SP5 and the sprocket SP 6. The second spacer 58B is disposed between the sprocket SP6 and the sprocket SP 7. The third spacer 58C is disposed between the sprocket SP7 and the sprocket SP 8. The fourth spacer 58D is disposed between the sprocket SP8 and the sprocket SP 9. The fifth spacer 58E is disposed between the sprocket SP9 and the sprocket SP 10. The sixth spacer 58F is disposed between the sprocket SP10 and the sprocket SP 11. The seventh spacer 58G is disposed between the sprocket SP11 and the sprocket SP 12.

The sprocket SP6 and the first spacer 58A are attached to the first attachment portion 62A by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP7 and the second spacer 58B are attached to the second attachment portion 62B by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP8 and the third spacer 58C are attached to the third attachment portion 62C by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP9 and the fourth spacer 58D are attached to the fourth attachment portion 62D by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP10 and the fifth spacer 58E are attached to the fifth attachment portion 62E by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP11 and the sixth spacer 58F are attached to the sixth attachment portion 62F by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP12 and the seventh spacer 58G are attached to the seventh attachment portion 62G by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The sprocket SP5 and the second ring 59B are attached to the eighth attaching portion 62H by a bonding structure such as an adhesive. The hub engaging portion 60, the sprocket SP1 through the sprocket SP4, the first ring 59A and the second ring 59B are held between the larger diameter portion 42 and the locking flange 32B of the locking ring 32 in the axial direction D2.

In this embodiment, each of the sprockets SP1 to SP12 is made of a metal material such as aluminum, iron or titanium. Each of the sprocket support 56, the first to seventh spacers 58A to 58G, the first ring 59A and the second ring 59B is made of a non-metallic material such as a resin material. However, at least one of the sprockets SP1 to SP12 can be at least partially made of a non-metallic material. At least one of the sprocket support 56, the first through seventh spacers 58A through 58G, the first and

second rings

59A and 59B may be at least partially made of a metallic material such as aluminum, iron, or titanium.

At least one sprocket includes at least one internally splined tooth configured to engage the bicycle hub assembly 12. As seen in fig. 24 and 25, at least one sprocket includes at least ten internal spline teeth configured to engage the bicycle hub assembly 12. The at least one internal spline tooth includes a plurality of internal spline teeth. Thus, at least one sprocket includes a plurality of internal spline teeth configured to engage the bicycle hub assembly 12. In this embodiment, the sprocket SP1 includes at least ten internal spline teeth 64 configured to engage the bicycle hub assembly 12. In this embodiment, the sprocket SP1 includes internal spline teeth 64 configured to mesh with the external spline teeth 40 of the sprocket support body 28 of the bicycle hub assembly 12. The sprocket body SP1A has a ring shape. The inner spline teeth 64 extend radially inward from the sprocket body SP 1A.

As shown in fig. 26, the total number of at least ten internal spline teeth 64 is equal to or greater than 20. The total number of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 is equal to or greater than 25. In this embodiment, the total number of internal spline teeth 64 is 26. However, the total number of the internal spline teeth 64 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

At least ten of the internal spline teeth 64 have a first internal pitch angle PA21 and a second internal pitch angle PA 22. At least two of the plurality of internal spline teeth 64 are circumferentially arranged at a first internal pitch angle PA21 relative to the rotational center axis A1 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14. At least two of the plurality of internal spline teeth 64 are circumferentially arranged at a second internal pitch angle PA22 relative to the central axis of rotation a 1. In this embodiment, the second internal pitch angle PA22 is different from the first internal pitch angle PA 21. However, the second inner pitch angle PA22 may be substantially equal to the first inner pitch angle PA 21.

In this embodiment, the internal spline teeth 64 are circumferentially arranged at a first internal pitch angle PA21 in the circumferential direction D1. Two of the internal spline teeth 64 are arranged at a second internal pitch angle PA22 in the circumferential direction D1. However, at least two of the internal spline teeth 64 may be arranged at additional internal pitch angles in the circumferential direction D1.

The first internal pitch angle PA21 ranges from 10 degrees to 20 degrees. The first inner pitch angle PA21 ranges from 12 degrees to 15 degrees. The first internal pitch angle PA21 ranges from 13 degrees to 14 degrees. In this embodiment, the first internal pitch angle PA21 is 13.3 degrees. However, the first internal pitch angle PA21 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

The second internal pitch angle PA22 ranges from 5 degrees to 30 degrees. In this embodiment, the second internal pitch angle PA22 is 26 degrees. However, the second internal pitch angle PA22 is not limited to this embodiment and the above range.

At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a first spline shape that is different from a second spline shape of another of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64. At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a first spline dimension that is different from a second spline dimension of another of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64. At least one of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64 has a cross-sectional shape that is different from a cross-sectional shape of another of the at least ten internal spline teeth 64. However, as shown in fig. 27, the internal spline teeth 64 may have the same shape as each other. The internal spline teeth 64 may have the same dimensions as one another. The internal spline teeth 64 may have the same cross-sectional shape as each other.

As shown in fig. 28, at least one internally splined tooth 64 includes an internally splined driving surface 66 and an internally splined non-driving surface 68. The at least one internal spline tooth 64 includes a plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The plurality of internal spline teeth 64 include a plurality of internal spline drive surfaces 66 to receive a driving rotational force F1 from the bicycle hub assembly 12 (fig. 6) during pedaling. The plurality of internal spline teeth 64 includes a plurality of internal spline non-drive surfaces 68. The internally splined drive surface 66 is contactable with the sprocket support body 28 to transfer a driving rotational force F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28 during pedaling. The internally splined drive surface 66 faces in the drive rotational direction D11. The internally splined non-drive surface 68 is disposed on an opposite side of the internally splined drive surface 66 in the circumferential direction D1. The internally splined non-drive surface 68 faces in the opposite rotational direction D12, and the driving rotational force F1 is not transferred from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28 during pedaling.

At least ten of the internal spline teeth 64 each have a circumferential maximum width MW 2. The plurality of internal spline teeth 64 each have a circumferential maximum width MW 2. The circumferential maximum width MW2 is defined as the maximum width that receives the thrust F3 applied to the internal spline teeth 64. The circumferential maximum width MW2 is defined as the linear distance based on the internally splined drive surface 66.

The internally splined drive surface 66 includes a radially outermost edge 66A and a radially innermost edge 66B. The internally splined drive surface 66 extends from a radially outermost edge 66A to a radially innermost edge 66B. A second reference circle RC21 is defined on the radially outermost edge 66A and is centered on the rotational center axis a 1. A second reference circle RC21 intersects the internally splined non-driving surface 68 at reference point 68R. The circumferential maximum width MW2 extends linearly in the circumferential direction D1 from the radially innermost edge 66B to the reference point 68R.

The inner splined non-driving surface 68 includes a radially outermost edge 68A and a radially innermost edge 68B. The inner splined non-driving surface 68 extends from a radially outermost edge 68A to a radially innermost edge 68B. Reference point 68R is disposed between radially outermost edge 68A and radially innermost edge 68B.

The sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 40 mm. The sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 45 mm. The sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW2 is equal to or greater than 50 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW2 is 50.8 mm. However, the sum of the circumferential maximum widths MW2 is not limited to this embodiment.

As shown in fig. 29, at least one of the internally splined teeth 64 has an internally splined bottom diameter DM 21. The at least one inner spline tooth 64 has an inner spline root circle RC22, the inner spline root circle RC22 having an inner spline base diameter DM 21. However, the inner spline root circle RC22 may have another diameter than the inner spline base diameter DM 21. The internal spline base diameter DM21 is equal to or less than 30 mm. The internal spline base diameter DM21 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The internal spline base diameter DM21 is equal to or greater than 29 mm. In this embodiment, the internal spline base diameter DM21 is 29.8 mm. However, the internal spline base diameter DM21 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

At least one of the internal spline teeth 64 has an internal spline crest diameter DM22, the internal spline crest diameter DM22 is equal to or less than 28 mm. The internal spline crest diameter DM22 is equal to or greater than 25 mm. The internal spline crest diameter DM22 is equal to or greater than 27 mm. In this embodiment, the internal spline crest diameter DM22 is 27.7 mm. However, the internal spline crest diameter DM22 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

As shown in fig. 28, the plurality of internally splined drive surfaces 66 includes a radially outermost edge 66A and a radially innermost edge 66B. The plurality of inner spline drive surfaces 66 each include a radial length RL21 defined from a radially outermost edge 66A to a radially innermost edge 66B. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 of the plurality of internal spline drive surfaces 66 is equal to or greater than 7 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 is equal to or greater than 10 mm. The sum of the radial lengths RL21 is equal to or greater than 15 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the radial lengths RL21 is 19.5 mm. However, the sum of the radial lengths RL21 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

The plurality of internal spline teeth 64 have an additional radial length RL 22. Additional radial lengths RL22 are defined from the inner spline tooth root circle RC22 to the radially innermost ends 64A of the plurality of inner spline teeth 64, respectively. The sum of the additional radial lengths RL22 is equal to or greater than 12 mm. In this embodiment, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL22 is 27.95 mm. However, the sum of the additional radial lengths RL22 is not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

At least one of the internal spline teeth 64 has an asymmetrical shape with respect to the circumferential tip centerline CL 2. The circumferential tip center line CL2 is a line connecting the rotational center axis a1 and the circumferential center point CP2 of the radially innermost end portion 64A of the inner spline tooth 64. However, at least one of the internal spline teeth 64 may have a symmetrical shape with respect to the circumferential tip center line CL 2. At least one of the internally splined teeth 64 includes an internally splined driving surface 66 and an internally splined non-driving surface 68.

The internally splined drive surface 66 has a first internally splined surface angle AG 21. A first internal spline surface angle AG21 is defined between internal spline drive surface 66 and a first radial line L21. The first radial line L21 extends from the rotational center axis a1 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to the radially outermost edge 66A of the internally splined driving surface 66. A first internal pitch angle PA21 or a second internal pitch angle PA22 is defined between adjacent first radial lines L21 (see, e.g., fig. 26).

The internally splined non-drive surface 68 has a second internally splined surface angle AG 22. A second internally splined surface angle AG22 is defined between internally splined non-drive surface 68 and a second radial line L22. The second radial line L22 extends from the rotational center axis a1 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 14 to the radially outermost edge 68A of the inner splined non-driving surface 68.

In this embodiment, second internally splined surface angle AG22 is different from first internally splined surface angle AG 21. First internal spline surface angle AG21 is less than second internal spline surface angle AG 22. However, first internal spline surface angle AG21 may be equal to or greater than second internal spline surface angle AG 22.

The first internal spline surface angle AG21 ranges from 0 degrees to 10 degrees. Second internal spline surface angle AG22 ranges from 0 degrees to 60 degrees. In this embodiment, first internally splined surface angle AG21 is 5 degrees. Second internally splined surface angle AG22 is 45 degrees. However, first and second internal spline surface angles AG21 and AG22 are not limited to this embodiment and the ranges described above.

As shown in fig. 30, the internal spline teeth 64 mesh with the external spline teeth 40 to transmit the driving rotational force F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28. The internally splined drive surface 66 is contactable with the externally splined drive surface 48 to transfer a driving rotational force F1 from the sprocket SP1 to the sprocket support body 28. With the inner spline drive surfaces 66 in contact with the outer spline drive surfaces 48, the inner spline non-drive surfaces 68 are spaced from the outer spline non-drive surfaces 50.

As shown in fig. 31, the sprocket SP2 includes a plurality of internal spline teeth 70. The sprocket SP3 includes a plurality of internally splined teeth 72. The sprocket SP4 includes a plurality of internally splined teeth 74. The first ring 59A includes a plurality of internal spline teeth 76. As shown in fig. 32, the hub engaging portion 60 of the sprocket support 56 includes a plurality of internal spline teeth 78. The plurality of internal spline teeth 70 have substantially the same structure as the plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The plurality of internal spline teeth 72 have substantially the same structure as the plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The plurality of internal spline teeth 74 have substantially the same structure as the plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The plurality of internal spline teeth 76 have substantially the same structure as the plurality of internal spline teeth 64. The plurality of internal spline teeth 78 have substantially the same structure as the plurality of internal spline teeth 64. Therefore, they will not be described in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

The term "comprises/comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, 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, e.g., 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.

Ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" recited in this application are merely labels, but do not have other meanings, e.g., a particular order, etc. Further, for example, the term "first element" does not itself imply the presence of "second element", and the term "second element" does not itself imply the presence of "first element".

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

The terms "a", "an", "one or more" and "at least one" may be 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. All numerical values described in this application may be construed to include terms such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately".

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 hub assembly comprising:

a sprocket support body comprising at least ten external spline teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, each of the at least ten external spline teeth having an external spline drive surface and an external spline non-drive surface;

wherein the at least ten externally splined teeth comprise a plurality of externally splined drive surfaces to receive driving rotational force from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly during pedaling,

the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces each comprise:

the radially outermost edge of the outer casing is,

the radially innermost edge, and

a radial length defined from the radially outermost edge to the radially innermost edge, an

A sum of radial lengths of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces is equal to or greater than 7 mm; and

at least one of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces has a first externally splined surface angle defined between the at least one externally splined drive surface and a first radial line extending from a central axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly to a radially outermost edge of the at least one externally splined drive surface; and

the first external spline surface angle ranges from 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

2. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

The total number of the at least ten external spline teeth is equal to or greater than 20.

3. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 2, wherein

The total number of the at least ten external spline teeth is equal to or greater than 25.

4. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

The at least ten external spline teeth have a first external pitch angle and a second external pitch angle different from the first external pitch angle.

5. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

At least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline shape that is different from a second spline shape of another of the at least ten external spline teeth.

6. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

At least one of the at least ten external spline teeth has a first spline dimension that is different from a second spline dimension of another of the at least ten external spline teeth.

7. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 1, wherein

The at least ten external spline teeth each have a circumferential maximum width, an

The sum of the circumferential maximum widths is equal to or greater than 55 mm.

8. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 7, wherein

The sum of the circumferential maximum widths is equal to or greater than 60 mm.

9. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 8, wherein

The sum of the circumferential maximum widths is equal to or greater than 65 mm.

10. A bicycle hub assembly comprising:

a sprocket support body including a plurality of external spline teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, at least two of the plurality of external spline teeth being circumferentially arranged at a first external pitch angle relative to a center axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly, the first external pitch angle ranging from 10 degrees to 20 degrees;

wherein the plurality of externally splined teeth comprise a plurality of externally splined drive surfaces to receive a driving rotational force from the bicycle rear sprocket assembly during pedaling,

the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces each comprise:

the radially outermost edge of the outer casing is,

the radially innermost edge, and

A sum of radial lengths of the plurality of external spline drive surfaces is equal to or greater than 7 mm;

at least one of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces has a first externally splined surface angle defined between the at least one externally splined drive surface and a first radial line extending from the central axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly to the radially outermost edge of the at least one externally splined drive surface; and

the first external spline surface angle ranges from 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

11. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 10, wherein

The first outer pitch angle ranges from 12 degrees to 15 degrees.

12. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 11, wherein

The first outer pitch angle ranges from 13 degrees to 14 degrees.

13. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 10, wherein

At least two of the plurality of external spline teeth are circumferentially arranged at a second external pitch angle relative to a center axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly, an

The second outer pitch angle is different from the first outer pitch angle.

14. A bicycle hub assembly comprising:

a sprocket support body comprising a plurality of external spline teeth configured to engage a bicycle rear sprocket assembly, at least one of the plurality of external spline teeth having an external spline crest diameter equal to or less than 30 mm;

the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces each comprise:

the radially outermost edge of the outer casing is,

the radially innermost edge, and

at least one of the plurality of externally splined drive surfaces has a first externally splined surface angle defined between the at least one externally splined drive surface and a first radial line extending from a central axis of rotation of the bicycle hub assembly to the radially outermost edge of the at least one externally splined drive surface; and

the first external spline surface angle ranges from 0 degrees to 10 degrees.

15. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 14, further comprising:

a brake rotor support body including at least one additional external spline tooth configured to engage a bicycle brake rotor, the at least one additional external spline tooth having an additional external spline crest diameter that is greater than the external spline crest diameter.

16. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 14, wherein

The external spline top diameter is equal to or larger than 25 mm.

17. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 16, wherein

The external spline top diameter is equal to or larger than 29 mm.

18. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 14, wherein

At least one of the plurality of external spline teeth has an external spline base diameter, an

The bottom diameter of the external spline is equal to or less than 28 mm.

19. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 18, wherein

The bottom diameter of the external spline is equal to or larger than 25 mm.

20. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 19, wherein

The bottom diameter of the external spline is equal to or larger than 27 mm.

21. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 14, wherein

The sum of the radial lengths is equal to or greater than 10 mm.

22. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 21, wherein

The sum of the radial lengths being equal to or greater than 15 mm.

23. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 14, wherein

The sprocket support body includes a larger diameter portion having an outer diameter greater than the outer spline top diameter.

24. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 23, wherein

The outer diameter ranges from 32mm to 40 mm.

25. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 23, further comprising

A hub axle comprising an axial contact surface to contact a bicycle frame, wherein

The sprocket support body is rotatably mounted on the drum shaft about the center axis of rotation,

a first axial length is defined in an axial direction with respect to the rotational center axis from the axial contact surface to the larger diameter portion, an

The first axial length ranges from 35mm to 41 mm.

26. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 25, wherein

The first axial length is equal to or greater than 39 mm.

27. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 25, wherein

The first axial length ranges from 35mm to 37 mm.

28. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 25, wherein

The larger diameter portion has an axial end portion that is farthest from the axial contact surface in the axial direction,

a second axial length is defined in the axial direction from the axial contact surface to the axial end, an

The second axial length ranges from 38mm to 47 mm.

29. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 28, wherein

The second axial length ranges from 44mm to 45 mm.

30. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 28, wherein

The second axial length ranges from 40mm to 41 mm.

31. The bicycle hub assembly of claim 23, wherein

The axial length of the larger diameter portion ranges from 3mm to 6 mm.