CN114537580A

CN114537580A - Bicycle operating device

Info

Publication number: CN114537580A
Application number: CN202210118543.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 小松厚志; 西野高史; 中岛岳彦
Original assignee: Shimano Inc
Current assignee: Shimano Inc
Priority date: 2016-04-21
Filing date: 2017-04-19
Publication date: 2022-05-27
Also published as: CN107303939A; TWI741737B; TWI704084B; TW201738146A; DE102017002800A1; TW202106562A

Abstract

The base member includes a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end. The operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis. The hydraulic unit is coupled to the operating member to operate the bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member. At least a portion of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis. The wireless communicator wirelessly transmits a signal to the additional component in response to the input operation. The power supply is electrically connected to the wireless communicator. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

Description

Bicycle operating device

The application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application with the application date of 19.4.2017, the application number of 201710257819.X and the invention name of 'bicycle operating device'.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a bicycle operating device.

Background

Bicycles are becoming an increasingly popular form of recreation as well as a means of transportation. In addition, bicycles have also become a very popular competitive sport among 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. Bicycle operating devices have become a widely redesigned part of a bicycle.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a hydraulic unit, an electrical switch, a wireless communicator and a power source. The base member includes a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end. The operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis. The hydraulic unit is coupled to the operating member to operate the bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member. At least a portion of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis. The electric switch is actuated by an input operation from a user. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the electric switch to wirelessly transmit a signal to the additional component in response to the input operation. The power supply is electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the first aspect, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis, and at least a portion of the hydraulic unit is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be effectively utilized.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, a bicycle operating device includes a base member, an operating member, a hydraulic unit, an electrical switch, a wireless communicator and a power source. The base member includes a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end. The operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member about a first pivot axis. The hydraulic unit is coupled to the operating member to operate the bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member. The electric switch is actuated by an input operation from a user. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the electric switch to wirelessly transmit a signal to the additional component in response to the input operation. The power supply is electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit when viewed from a first direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the second aspect, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be effectively utilized.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the first or second aspect is configured such that the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member. The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the third aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member that is relatively close to the additional component. Thus, wireless communication performance is improved.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured such that the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member. The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fourth aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the operating member that is relatively close to the additional component. Thus, wireless communication performance is improved.

In accordance with fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects further includes a first pivot axle pivotally coupling the operating member to the base member about a first pivot axis. The operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot shaft and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction about the first pivot axis.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fifth and sixth aspects, the wireless communicator is disposed closer to the distal end portion than to the proximal end portion, which is relatively close to the additional member, and therefore, the wireless communication performance is improved.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects further includes an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member. The wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member. The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the seventh aspect, the wireless communicator is disposed relatively close to the additional operating member of the additional component. Thus, wireless communication performance is improved.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects further comprises an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member. The wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member. The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eighth aspect, the wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member, which is relatively close to the additional part. Thus, wireless communication performance is improved.

According to ninth and tenth aspects of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that the additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the ninth and tenth aspects, the user can operate the additional operating member by moving the additional operating member.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to either of the first or tenth aspects is configured such that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore. At least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the first to eleventh aspects is configured such that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore and a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore. At least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is disposed at least partially closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power supply, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the eleventh and twelfth aspects is configured such that at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the eleventh to thirteenth aspects is configured such that at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the hydraulic unit has a longitudinal shape in the movable direction of the piston. Since at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power supply when viewed from the first direction, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured such that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore, a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore, and a reservoir connected to the cylinder bore. At least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir tank require large volumes. Since at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to tenth and fifteenth aspects is configured such that the hydraulic unit includes a cylinder bore, a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore, and a fluid reservoir connected to the cylinder bore. At least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir tank require a large volume. Since at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power supply when viewed from the first direction, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the fifteenth and sixteenth aspects is configured such that at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir tank is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from the first direction. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the fifteenth to seventeenth aspects is configured such that at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source, when viewed from the first direction.

With the bicycle operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir tank is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source, when viewed from the first direction. Therefore, the internal space of at least one of the base member and the operating member can be further effectively utilized.

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

With the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, the rounded head allows the user to rest on the base member while riding the bicycle. In addition, the user can easily operate the electric switch.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the power source is provided at the round head.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twentieth aspect, electric power can be generated to supply power to the electric switch when the electric switch is operated.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects further includes an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-first aspect, the user can operate the additional operating member by moving the additional operating member.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-first aspect is configured such that the additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-second aspect, the user can operate the additional operating member by an operation similar to that of the operating member. Therefore, the operability of the additional operating member is enhanced.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-second aspects is configured such that at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is provided at the base member.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-third aspect, the number of devices provided at the operating member can be reduced. Therefore, the operating member can be made thin. Therefore, the user can easily operate the operation member.

In accordance with a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-third aspects further includes a first pivot axle pivotally coupling the operating member to the base member about a first pivot axis. The operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot shaft and a distal end portion opposite the proximal end portion in a radial direction about the first pivot axis. At least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the proximal end than to the distal end.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fourth aspect, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the proximal end portion than to the distal end portion. Therefore, the operating portion of the operating member that the user contacts and is close to the distal end portion can be made thin. Therefore, the user can easily operate the operation member.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-fourth aspects is configured such that the base member includes a mounting surface at the first end, the mounting surface having a curved shape corresponding to the drop down handlebar.

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-fifth aspect, the bicycle operating member can be securely fixed to the drop-down handlebar.

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

With the bicycle operating device according to the twenty-sixth aspect, the grip allows the user to easily operate the operating member.

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 left side elevational view of a bicycle handlebar provided with a bicycle operating device in accordance with a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a partial rear view of the operating device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 illustrates other possible locations for providing at least one of an electrical switch, a wireless communicator, a notification device, a communication controller and a power source in the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the bicycle operating device taken along the line VIII-VIII of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the example of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a left side elevational view of a bicycle handlebar provided with a bicycle operating device in accordance with a second embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a left side elevational view of a bicycle handlebar provided with a bicycle operating device in accordance with a third embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle operating device illustrated in FIG. 12.

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.

First embodiment

Referring initially to fig. 1 and 2, a bicycle operating device 10 is mounted to a bicycle handlebar 2 in accordance with one embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the bicycle handlebar 2 is a drop down handlebar. The bicycle handlebar 2 can be referred to as a drop-down handlebar 2. The handle 2 can have shapes other than a drop down handle, if needed and/or desired. The bicycle operating device 10 is mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2 as a right control device configured to be operated by the rider's right hand. The structure of the bicycle operating device 10 can be applied to a left control device (11 in fig. 2) that is configured to be operated by the rider's left hand. The bicycle operating device 10 can be mounted to a bicycle handlebar other than a drop down handlebar if needed and/or desired.

The bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to a hydraulic bicycle component BC1, such as a hydraulic bicycle brake. In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is operatively coupled to the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via a hydraulic hose C1. In this embodiment, the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 may be referred to simply as bicycle component BC 1.

Further, the bicycle operating device 10 is operatively connected to the additional component BC2 by wireless communication. The additional components BC2 include electric bicycle components such as electric shifters, electric suspensions and electric seat posts. The additional component BC2 may also include a controller for controlling such electric bicycle components. The additional component BC2 may also comprise a digital device (e.g. a bicycle computer, a cell phone or a music player). The additional component BC2 may also be referred to as an electric bicycle component BC 2. In the present embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 is operatively connected to an electric shifting device as an additional component BC2 via wireless communication. The electric bicycle component BC2 may also be referred to as an electric shifter BC 2. Examples of electric shifting devices BC2 include derailleurs and internal shifting hubs.

In this application, the following directional terms "front", "rear", "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 the seat of bicycle B (fig. 2) and facing handlebar 2. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle operating device 10 should be interpreted relative to a bicycle B equipped with the bicycle operating device 10 as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. In fig. 1 and 2, Df, Dre, Dl, Dri, Du, and Dd denote a front or forward direction, a rearward direction, a leftward direction, a rightward direction, an upward direction, and a downward direction, respectively. The front or forward direction Df and the rearward direction Dre may be collectively referred to as the longitudinal direction DL. The left direction Dl and the right direction Dri may be collectively referred to as a lateral direction DW. More specifically, as shown in fig. 2, the bicycle has a transverse center plane CP extending in the longitudinal direction DL. The transverse center plane CP extends in the middle of the bicycle handlebar 2. Thus, the right control device 10 is arranged on the right side with respect to the transverse center plane CP. The left control device 11 is arranged on the left side with respect to the transverse center plane CP. That is, the bicycle operating device 10 is configured to be mounted on a bicycle B having a transverse center plane CP.

As seen in fig. 1, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a base member 12 and an operating member 14. The base member 12 includes a first end 12A mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2 and a second end 12B opposite the first end 12A. The first end 12A is configured to be coupled to the bicycle handlebar 2 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. The mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10 refers to a state in which the bicycle operating device 10 is mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2. As shown in fig. 3, the pull-down handle 2 includes a bent portion 4. The base member 12 includes a mounting surface 16 at the first end 12A. The mounting surface 16 has a curved shape corresponding to the drop-down handle 2. Specifically, the mounting surface 16 has a curved shape corresponding to the outer peripheral surface of the bent portion 4 of the bicycle handlebar 2. The bicycle operating device 10 further includes a mounting clamp 18 coupled to the bicycle handlebar 2. The mounting clip 18 has an annular shape. The ring has a clamp central axis CCA.

As shown in fig. 1 and 3, the base member 12 includes a grip portion 12G disposed between the first end 12A and the second end 12B. The grip portion 12G is configured to be gripped by a user. That is, the base member 12 has a graspable shape between the first end 12A and the second end 12B. The base member 12 includes a rounded head 12P at the second end 12B. The round head 12P extends obliquely upward from the grip 12G. In the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, the rounded head 12P is disposed at a position higher than the highest position of the first end 12A.

As seen in fig. 1 and 4, the bicycle operating device 10 can include a cover 17. The cover 17 is configured to at least partially cover the base member 12. For example, the cover 17 is made of a non-metallic material such as rubber, and the base member 12 is made of a metallic material. The base member 12 can be made of a non-metallic material if needed and/or desired. The cover 17 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10 if needed and/or desired.

In the present embodiment, the operating member 14 is, for example, a brake operating member. As shown in fig. 1, the operating member 14 is pivotably coupled to the base member 12 about a first pivot axis a 1. Specifically, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes a first pivot axle 20 that pivotally couples the operating member 14 to the base member 12 about a first pivot axis a 1. The first pivot axle 20 defines a first pivot axis a 1. The first pivot axle 20 is supported by the base member 12. In the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, the first pivot axle 20 is disposed below the round head 12P.

In the present embodiment, the operating member 14 extends downward from the base member 12 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. The operating member 14 is rotatable relative to the base member 12 about a first pivot axis a1 in the first movable direction MD 1. In the present embodiment, the first movable direction MD1 is a circumferential direction defined about the first pivot axis a 1. The operating member 14 is rotatable relative to the base member 12 between a rest position P11 and an operating position P12. The bicycle operating device 10 can also include a first biasing member 15 to bias the operating member 14 toward the rest position P11.

In the present application, the term "rest position" as used herein refers to a position where a movable part such as the operation member 14 remains stationary in a state where the movable part is not operated by a user. The term "operating position" as used herein refers to a position at which a user has operated the movable portion to perform an operation of a bicycle component.

As shown in fig. 4, the operating member 14 includes a proximal end portion 14A and a distal end portion 14B. The proximal end portion 14A is connected to a first pivot shaft 20. That is, the proximal end portion 14A is pivotably coupled to the base member 12. The distal end portion 14B is opposite the proximal end portion 14A in a radial direction Dra about the first pivot axis a 1. The operating member 14 has a free end 14FE that is farthest from the first pivot axis a1 as viewed in the first direction D1 that is parallel to the first pivot axis a 1.

As seen in fig. 4, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a hydraulic unit 22. The hydraulic unit 22 is coupled to the operating member 14 to operate the bicycle component BC1 in response to operation of the operating member 14.

The hydraulic unit 22 includes a cylinder bore 24 and a piston 26. In the present embodiment, the cylinder bore 24 is defined by a hydraulic cylinder 25 provided in the base member 12, and the hydraulic cylinder 25 is a different member from the base member 12. That is, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed within the base member 12. However, the cylinder bore 24 may be shaped as a hole in the base member 12. The cylinder bore 24 has a center axis HCA defining a hydraulic unit center axis. That is, the hydraulic unit 22 has a hydraulic unit center axis HCA. A piston 26 is movably disposed in the cylinder bore 24. The piston 26 is configured to move in an extending direction MD2 (second movable direction MD2) of the hydraulic unit center axis HCA. In the present embodiment, the hydraulic unit central axis HCA defines a lower side LS and an upper side US. The lower side LS comprises a free end 14FE of the operating member 14 when viewed from the first direction D1. The upper side US is opposite to the lower side LS with respect to the hydraulic unit center axis HCA when viewed from the first direction D1.

In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 and the piston 26 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24 and the entirety of the piston 26 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. The outlet P1 of the hydraulic unit 22 is closer to the first end 12A than the piston 26.

Further, the hydraulic unit 22 may include a piston biasing member 28 disposed in the cylinder bore 24 to bias the piston 26. The piston 26 is operatively coupled to the operating member 14 via a connecting rod 30. The piston biasing member 28 is configured to bias the operating member 14 toward the rest position P11 via the piston 26 and the connecting rod 30.

The hydraulic unit 22 includes a fluid reservoir 32 connected to the cylinder bore 24. In the present embodiment, the liquid storage tank 32 is disposed on the upper side US when viewed from the first direction D1. However, liquid storage tank 32 may be disposed at lower side LS when viewed from first direction D1. The reservoir 32 is configured to be in fluid communication with the cylinder bore 24. The cylinder bore 24 is configured to be in fluid communication with a hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via a hydraulic hose C1. When the operating member 14 is pivoted relative to the base member 12 about the first pivot axis a1 toward the operating position P12, hydraulic pressure is applied to the hydraulic bicycle component BC1 via the hydraulic hose C1 to actuate the hydraulic bicycle component BC 1. In the present embodiment, the hydraulic hose C1 is not part of the hydraulic unit 22.

In the present embodiment, the first pivot axis a1 is disposed on the upper side US when viewed from the first direction D1. Thus, in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. Specifically, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir 32 as a whole is disposed below the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. More specifically, the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir 32 as a whole are disposed below the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10.

Further, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 that is parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. Specifically, at least one of the cylinder bore 24, the piston 26, and the reservoir 32 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24, the entirety of the piston 26, and the entirety of the fluid reservoir 32 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 as viewed from the first direction D1.

As seen in fig. 1, 4 and 5, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes an additional operating member 34 movably mounted to the base member 12. The additional operating member 34 is configured to receive an input operation from a user. That is, the additional operating member 34 is configured to be operated by a user. The additional operating member 34 is movable relative to the operating member 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the additional operating member 34 is movably coupled to the operating member 14. The additional operating member 34 is pivotally mounted on the operating member 14 about a second pivot axis a2 that is not parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. As shown in fig. 5, the additional operating member 34 is rotatable relative to the operating member 14 about the second pivot axis a2 in the third movable direction MD 3. In the present embodiment, the third movable direction MD3 is a circumferential direction defined about the second pivot axis a 2. The additional operating member 34 is rotatable relative to the operating member 14 between a rest position P21 and an operating position P22.

The additional operating member 34 includes, for example, a resin material. The additional operating member 34 may optionally include carbon fibers and other reinforcing materials in addition to the resin material. In other words, the additional operating member 34 may be made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic or the like. However, the additional operating member 34 can be made of other materials if needed and/or desired.

As shown in fig. 1, 4 and 5, the operating member 14 includes a cavity 36, and the additional operating member 34 is at least partially disposed in the cavity 36. The lumen 36 extends between the proximal end 14A and the distal end 14B. The additional operating member 34 is disposed between the proximal end portion 14A and the distal end portion 14B. As shown in fig. 5, the operating member 14 includes a first side wall 38 and a second side wall 40 spaced apart from each other. The first and

second sidewalls

38, 40 extend between the proximal and

distal portions

14A, 14B. The cavity 36 is defined between a first sidewall 38 and a second sidewall 40. The additional operating member 34 is at least partially disposed between the first and

second side walls

38, 40.

The bicycle operating device 10 includes a pivot pin 42 and a second biasing member 44. The pivot pin 42 defines a second pivot axis a 2. The pivot pin 42 is fixed to the operating member 14. The additional operating member 34 is pivotally mounted to the operating member 14 via a pivot pin 42. The second biasing member 44 is configured to bias the additional operating member 34 toward the first side wall 38. The first side wall 38 is configured to position the additional operating member 34 in the rest position P21.

As seen in fig. 1, 4 and 5, the bicycle operating device 10 includes an electrical switch that is actuated by an input operation from a user. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a first electrical switch SW1 and a second electrical switch SW 2. However, one of the first and second electrical switches SW1 and SW2 can be omitted from the bicycle operating device 10 if needed and/or desired. The first and second electrical switches SW1 and SW2 may also be referred to as electrical switches SW1 and SW2, respectively. As shown in fig. 4, the electric switch SW1 is provided in the first inner space S1 of the base member 12 at the round head 12P. That is, the electric switch SW1 is provided at the round head 12P. An electric switch SW2 is provided in the second inner space S2 of the additional operating member 34. Thus, the electrical switch SW1 is provided at the base member 12, and the electrical switch SW2 is provided at the additional operating member 34.

From another perspective, the electric switch SW1 is disposed on the upper side US, and the electric switch SW2 is disposed on the lower side LS. The electrical switch SW1 is disposed closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B, and the electrical switch SW2 is disposed closer to the distal end portion 14B than to the proximal end portion 14A. However, the first and second electrical switches SW1 and SW2 may be provided at different positions from the round head 12P and the additional operating member 34. Other possible locations are described in variations of this embodiment.

The electrical switches SW1 and SW2 are configured to be operated by a user. Specifically, as shown in fig. 4, the button or switch member of the first electrical switch SW1 protrudes from the base member 12. The user may operate the first electrical switch SW1 by pressing a button of the first electrical switch SW1 or switching a switch member of the first electrical switch SW 1. Pressing a button of the first electrical switch SW1 or switching a switch member of the first electrical switch SW1 may be referred to as a first input operation. The first electrical switch SW1 is configured to receive a first input operation from a user to generate a first control signal SG1 in response to the first input operation.

As for the second electric switch SW2, as shown in fig. 1 and 5, the operating member 14 includes the receiving portion 41 provided on the second side wall 40. The receiving portion 41 extends from the second side wall 40. As shown in fig. 1, the electric switch SW2 overlaps with the receiving part 41 when viewed from the first direction D1. As shown in fig. 5, the button of the second electrical switch SW2 protrudes from the additional operating member 34. That is, the electric switch SW2 is disposed to face the receiving part 41 in the first direction D1.

As shown in fig. 5, when the additional operating member 34 is pushed toward the second side wall 40 by the user, the additional operating member 34 pivots relative to the operating member 14 about the second pivot axis a2 toward the operating position P22. This pivotal movement of the additional operating member 34 relative to the operating member 14 may be referred to as a second input operation. The electric switch SW2 is configured to be activated by the receiving portion 41 of the operating member 14 in response to a second input operation. The second electric switch SW2 is configured to receive a second input operation from the user to generate a second control signal SG2 in response to the second input operation.

As seen in fig. 1 and 4, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a wireless communicator WC 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes one wireless communicator WC 1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 can include a plurality of wireless communicators. The wireless communicator WC1 is provided at the additional operating member 34. Specifically, the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed in the second interior space S2 of the additional operating member 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communicator WC1 is provided in the additional operating member 34, but the wireless communicator WC1 may be provided on the additional operating member 34. Further, the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed closer to the distal end portion 14B than to the proximal end portion 14A. However, the wireless communicator WC1 may be provided in a different place from the additional operating member 34. Other possible locations are described in variations of the present embodiment.

The wireless communicator WC1 is electrically connected to the electric switch SW1 to wirelessly transmit a signal (e.g., the first control signal SG1) to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation (e.g., the above-described first input operation). The wireless communicator WC1 is electrically connected to the electric switch SW2 to wirelessly transmit a signal (e.g., the second control signal SG2) to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation (e.g., the second input operation described above).

Further, the wireless communicator WC1 may receive signals from the add-on component BC2 regarding the status (e.g., communication status and current gear, etc.) of the add-on component to be forwarded to the notification device described below.

The wireless communicator WC1 may include a directional wireless antenna (not shown) to output a stronger wireless signal in a particular direction than in other directions. That is, the wireless communicator WC1 is configured to wirelessly transmit a directional signal to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation. However, the wireless communicator WC1 may be configured to wirelessly transmit signals without directional characteristics if needed and/or desired.

As seen in fig. 1 and 4, the bicycle operating device 10 can also include a notification device INF 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 further includes a notification device INF 1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 can include a plurality of notification devices. Further, the notification means INF1 may be omitted. In the illustrated embodiment, the notification device INF1 is provided at the additional operating member 34. Specifically, the notification device INF1 is provided in the second internal space S2 of the additional operating member 34. However, the notification device INF1 may be provided on the additional operating member 34. Further, the notification device INF1 may be provided in a different place from the additional operation member 34. Other possible locations are described in variations of the present embodiment.

The notification device INF1 can be configured to notify the user of the status of the bicycle operating device 10. Alternatively or additionally, the notification device INF1 may be configured to notify the user of the pairing pattern between the bicycle operating device 10 and the additional component BC 2. Furthermore, the notification means INF1 may be configured to notify another information, such as the current gear. As seen in fig. 1, the notification device INF1 is exposed from the through hole 34a provided on the additional operating member 34, and the notification device INF1 includes a Light Emitting Diode (LED) configured to emit light through the through hole 34a according to the state, the pairing mode, and the like of the bicycle operating device 10. The wireless communicator WC1, the electric switch SW2, and the notification device INF1 may be provided on a substrate (not shown) fixed to the additional operating member 34 in the second internal space S2, for example.

As seen in fig. 1 and 4, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a communication controller CC 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 also includes a communication controller CC 1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 can include multiple communication controllers. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication controller CC1 is disposed at the rounded head 12P. However, the communication controller CC1 may be provided in a place different from the round head 12P. Other possible locations are described in variations of the present embodiment.

The communication controller CC1 is configured to control the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit a signal SG1(SG2) to the additional component BC2 in response to an input operation to the electric switch SW1(SW 2). For example, the communication controller CC1 is electrically connected to each of the first electrical switch SW1, the second electrical switch SW2, the wireless communicator WC1 and the notification device INF 1. The electric switches SW1 and SW2 are electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC1 via the communication controller CC 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, when the first electrical switch SW1 is activated in response to a first input operation from a user, the communication controller CC1 controls the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit a first control signal SG1 to the additional component BC 2. Specifically, the communication controller CC1 is configured to detect activation of the first electrical switch SW 1. Then, the communication controller CC1 is configured to generate a first control signal SG1 in response to the activation of the electric switch SW 1. The wireless communicator WC1 is configured to superimpose a first control signal SG1 on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to generate a wireless signal.

When the electric switch SW2 is activated in response to a second input operation from the user, the communication controller CC1 controls the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit a second control signal SG2 to the additional component BC 2. Specifically, the communication controller CC1 is configured to detect activation of the second electrical switch SW 2. The communication controller CC1 is then configured to generate a second control signal SG2 in response to the activation of the second electrical switch SW 2. The wireless communicator WC1 is configured to superimpose a second control signal SG2 on a carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to generate a wireless signal.

As shown in fig. 6, the communication controller CC1 is configured as a microcomputer and includes a processor PR1 and a memory M1. The processor PR1 includes a Central Processing Unit (CPU). The memory M1 includes Read Only Memory (ROM) and Random Access Memory (RAM). For example, a program stored in the memory M1 is read into the processor PR1, thereby executing the functions of the communication controller CC 1.

The first electrical switch SW1 may be a function switch. The communication controller CC1 is configured to enter a setting mode for initial setting and/or programming when a user operates the function switch SW 1.

As seen in fig. 1, 4 and 6, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a power source PS 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle operating device 10 includes a power source PS 1. However, the bicycle operating device 10 can include multiple power sources. In the illustrated embodiment, a power source PS1 is provided at the rounded head 12P. In other words, the power supply PS1 is provided on the upper side US. Further, a power supply PS1 is provided at the base member 12. The power source PS1 is disposed closer to the proximal end 14A than to the distal end 14B. Therefore, at least one of the power source PS1 and the electric switch SW1 is provided at the round head 12P. At least one of a power source PS1 and an electrical switch SW1 is arranged in the upper side US. At least one of a power source PS1 and an electrical switch SW1 is provided at the base member 12. At least one of the power source PS1 and the electrical switch SW1 is disposed closer to the proximal portion 14A than to the distal portion 14B. At least one of a wireless communicator WC1 and a power supply PS1 are provided at the round head 12P. At least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided on the upper side US. At least one of a wireless communicator WC1 and a power supply PS1 are disposed at the base member 12. At least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 are disposed closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B.

Further, the power source PS1 is disposed at a position closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. That is, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. In other words, power source PS1 is disposed closer to second end 12B than hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction. That is, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1 that is parallel to the first pivot axis a 1.

In contrast, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 and the piston 26 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS 1. At least one of the cylinder bore 24, the piston 26, and the fluid reservoir 32 is at least partially disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, when viewed from the first direction D1, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24 and the entirety of the piston 26 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS 1. At least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24, the entirety of the piston 26, and the entirety of the fluid reservoir 32 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS 1. However, the power source PS1 may be provided at a different location than the rounded head 12P. Other possible locations are described in variations of the present embodiment.

Further, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 when viewed from the first direction D1 that is parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. Specifically, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below the power source PS 1. More specifically, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24, the entirety of the piston 26, and the entirety of the fluid reservoir 32 is disposed below the power source PS1 as viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10, the entire cylinder bore 24, the entire piston 26, and the entire reservoir 32 are disposed below the power source PS1 as viewed from the first direction D1.

In other words, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the free end 14FE of the operating member 14 than at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 when viewed from the first direction D1. Specifically, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the free end 14FE than the power source PS1 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore 24, the entirety of the piston 26, and the entirety of the reservoir 32 is disposed closer to the free end 14FE than the power source PS1 is, as viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, the entirety of the cylinder bore 24, the entirety of the piston 26, and the entirety of the reservoir tank 32 are disposed closer to the free end 14FE than the power source PS1 when viewed from the first direction D1.

The power supply PS1 is electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC1 to provide power to the wireless communicator WC 1. The bicycle operating device 10 also includes a cable C2 electrically connected between the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS 1. The cable C2 extends from the wireless communicator WC1 to the power source PS1 along the operating member 14 and/or the additional operating member 34. Further, the power supply PS1 is electrically connected to the electric switches SW1 and SW2, the communication controller CC1, and the notification device INF1 to supply power to the electric switches SW1 and SW2, the communication controller CC1, and the notification device INF 1.

As shown in fig. 6, power supply PS1 includes a power generation element EG 1. In addition, the power supply PS1 may further include a rectifier circuit RC 1. Further, power supply PS1 may also include capacitor CA 1. Power supply PS1 may include battery BT1 and battery holder BH 1. The battery BT1 was mounted in the battery holder BH 1. Examples of the battery BT1 include a primary battery such as a lithium manganese dioxide battery and a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery. In this embodiment, battery BT1 is a primary button cell battery.

The power generation element EG1 may include a piezoelectric element. The electric power generation element EG1 generates electric power (e.g., alternating current) using the pressure and/or vibration of the piezoelectric element. For example, a piezoelectric element may be attached to the first electrical switch SW1, and the power generation element EG1 generates power using pressure and/or vibration caused by the pressing of the first electrical switch SW 1. Alternatively or additionally, a piezoelectric element may be attached to at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14, and the electric power generating element EG1 generates electric power using pressure and/or vibration of at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14 caused by movement of the operating member 14 relative to the base member 12. Further alternatively or additionally, a piezoelectric element may be attached to at least one of the operating member 14, the additional operating member 34, and the second electrical switch SW2, and the electrical energy generating element EG1 generates electrical energy using pressure and/or vibration of at least one of the operating member 14, the additional operating member 34, and the second electrical switch SW2 caused by movement of the additional operating member 34 relative to the operating member 14. The remaining power generated by the power generation element EG1 may be charged to the capacitor CA 1.

The rectification circuit RC1 is connected to the power generation element EG1 to rectify the power generated by the power generation element EG 1. Since the power generating element EG1 and the rectifier circuit RC1 are well known in the electronic arts, they will not be described and/or illustrated in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

Variations of the first embodiment

As described above, at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2, the wireless communicator WC1, the notification device INF1, the communication controller CC1, and the power supply PS1 may be provided in a position different from the position described in the above embodiment. FIG. 7 shows possible locations where at least one of the electrical switches SW1 and SW2, the wireless communicator WC1, the notification device INF1, the communication controller CC1, and the power source PS1 may be set.

As shown in fig. 7, the base member 12 includes a first internal space S1 and a third internal space S3. The third interior space S3 is disposed above the hydraulic unit 22 at the grip 12G when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. The operating member 14 includes a fourth internal space S4, a fifth internal space S5, and a sixth internal space S6. The fourth internal space S4 is provided near the proximal end portion 14A. The fifth inner space S5 is provided at the receiving part 41. The sixth internal space S6 is provided in the vicinity of the distal end portion 14B. Specifically, the fourth internal space S4 is configured to be closer to the proximal end portion 14A than to the distal end portion 14B. The fifth internal space S5 overlaps with the second internal space S2 included in the additional operating member 34 when viewed from the first direction D1. The sixth internal space S6 is closer to the distal end portion 14B than to the proximal end portion 14A.

The first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6 are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22 is when viewed from the first direction D1. Therefore, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6. In the case where at least one power source (e.g., a power source PS1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2, and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6, as described in the first embodiment, any wireless communicator (e.g., a wireless communicator WC1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6. Further, in the case where at least one wireless communicator is provided (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) in at least one of the first internal space S1, the second internal space S2 and the fourth to sixth internal spaces S4 to S6, as described in the first embodiment, any power source (e.g., the power source PS1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6.

The first interior space S1 and the fourth interior space S4 are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. Therefore, it is preferable that at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4. In the case where at least one power source (e.g., a power source PS1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4, as described in the first embodiment, any wireless communicator (e.g., a wireless communicator WC1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6. Further, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1 and the fourth internal space S4, any power source (e.g., the power source PS1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1 to S6.

Where the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed at the base member 12 (e.g., the first interior space S1 or the third interior space S3), the wireless communicator WC1 preferably faces the transverse center plane CP2 (see fig. 2). Fig. 8 and 9 show an example of the bicycle operating device 10, in which the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed in the third interior space S3. Specifically, fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the bicycle operating device 10 taken along the line VIII-VIII of fig. 7. Fig. 9 is a top plan view of the example of the bicycle operating device 10 as viewed from above in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. As shown in fig. 8 and 9, the power supply PS1 is also disposed in the third internal space S3, but the power supply PS1 may be disposed in one of the first, second, and fourth through sixth internal spaces S1, S2, and S4 through S6.

As shown in fig. 8 and 9, the first direction D1 is a bidirectional direction including a first unidirectional direction Dl (e.g., a left direction D1) and a second unidirectional direction Dri (e.g., a right direction Dri). The second unidirectional direction Dri is opposite to the first unidirectional direction Dl. The base member 12 includes a first side surface LS1 and a second side surface LS 2. The first side surface LS1 faces the first unidirectional direction Dl. Second side LS2 faces second unidirectional direction Dri. The first side surface LS1 is closer to the lateral center plane CP than the second side surface LS2 in the first direction D1. Preferably, the wireless communicator WC1 is disposed between the first side surface LS1 and the second side surface LS2 in the first direction D1. The first side surface LS1 is closer to the wireless communicator WC1 than the second side surface LS2 in the first direction D1.

Further, as seen in fig. 7 to 9, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 overlaps at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 when viewed in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. Similarly, at least a portion of hydraulic unit 22 overlaps at least one of wireless communicator WC1 and power source PS1 when viewed from a handle tangential direction HTD parallel to clamp central axis CCA. At least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 overlaps at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power source PS1 when viewed from a hydraulic unit-based vertical direction HVD that is perpendicular to the first pivot axis a1 and the hydraulic unit central axis HCA. Accordingly, at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14 can be thinned in the first direction D1. Therefore, the user can easily grip at least one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14.

In the case where the wireless communicator WC1 is provided at the operating member 14, the wireless communicator WC1 is preferably provided in the sixth internal space S6 to improve wireless communication performance because the sixth internal space S6 is closer to the additional part BC2 than the fourth and fifth internal spaces S4 and S5. In this case, as described above, at least one power source (e.g., power source PS1) is disposed in at least one of the first interior space S1 and the fourth interior space S4 such that the power source PS1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction.

The communication controller CC1 may be provided in an internal space (one of S2 to S6) different from the first internal space S1. In the case where the bicycle operating device 10 includes a plurality of communication controllers, the plurality of communication controllers may be provided in at least one of the first through sixth internal spaces S1 through S6. Further, at least one of the plurality of communication controllers (e.g., communication controller CC1) may be integrated into the wireless communicator WC1 as a single unit.

At least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 may be disposed in at least one of the internal spaces S3 to S6 different from the first internal space S1 and the second internal space S2. For example, the electric switch SW2 may be provided in the fifth internal space S5 of the receiving part 41 instead of the second internal space S2. In this case, the electrical switch SW2 overlaps with the additional operating member 34 when viewed from the first direction D1. The button of the second electric switch SW2 protrudes from the receiving part 41. That is, the electrical switch SW2 is disposed facing the additional operating member 34 in the first direction D1. In this structure, the electric switch SW2 is configured to be activated by the additional operating member 34 in response to the above-described second input operation.

Further, in the case where the power supply PS1 generates electric power by pressing at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2, at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 may preferably be integrated into the power supply PS 1. Alternatively, at least one of the electric switches SW1 and SW2 may preferably be provided in the inner space in which the power supply PS1 is provided.

The notification device INF1 is mounted to one of the base member 12, the operating member 14 and the additional operating member 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the notification device INF1 is mounted to the additional operating member 34. The notification device INF1 may also be mounted to one of the base member 12 and the operating member 14 if needed and/or desired. The notification device INF1 may be disposed in an internal space (one of S1, S3 to S6) different from the second internal space S2. Further, the notification device INF1 may be provided in a different device mounted to the bicycle handlebar 2 than the bicycle operating device 10 (e.g., a cycle computer). In the case where the bicycle operating device 10 includes a plurality of notification devices, the plurality of notification devices may be provided in at least one of the first through sixth internal spaces S1 through S6.

In the case where the structure of the bicycle operating device 10 is applied to the left control device 11 illustrated in FIG. 2, the left control device 11 has substantially the same structure as the bicycle operating device 10, except that they are mirror images of each other, and for the sake of brevity, will not be described and/or illustrated in detail herein.

Second embodiment

A bicycle operating device 110 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 10 to 11. The bicycle operating device 110 has the same structure as the bicycle operating device 10, except for the position of the hydraulic unit 22, the shape of the first interior space 1A in the base member 12, the positional relationship between the first interior space S1A and the hydraulic unit 22, the positional relationship between the third interior space S3A and the hydraulic unit 22, and the positional relationship between the fourth interior space S4A and the hydraulic unit 22. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment will be numbered identically herein and will not be described and/or illustrated in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

In the second embodiment, the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed below the rounded head 12P in the base member 12 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. The hydraulic unit 22 is disposed above the operating member 14 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. At least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed above the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. Specifically, at least one of the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the reservoir 32 as a whole is disposed above the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. More specifically, the cylinder bore 24 as a whole, the piston 26 as a whole, and the liquid storage tank 32 as a whole are disposed above the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10.

Further, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 that is parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. Specifically, at least one of a portion of the cylinder bore 24 and the reservoir 32 is at least partially disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. The outlet P2 of the hydraulic unit 22 is closer to the second end 12B than the piston 26 when viewed from the first direction D1.

The first interior space S1A is disposed below at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. The first internal space S1A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1. The first interior space S1A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. The shape of the first internal space S1A is different from the first internal space S1 in the first embodiment, so that the first internal space S1A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22.

The third internal space S3A is disposed farther from the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1. The third interior space S3A is disposed farther from the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1.

The fourth interior space S4A is disposed below the entirety of the hydraulic unit 22 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. The fourth interior space S4A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than a portion of the hydraulic unit 22 (e.g., the link 30) when viewed from the first direction D1. The fourth interior space S4A is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1.

Therefore, in the second embodiment, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1A and the fourth internal space S4A. In the case where at least one power source (e.g., a power source PS1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1A and the fourth internal space S4A, any wireless communicator (e.g., a wireless communicator WC1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1A to S6. In contrast, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1A and the fourth internal space S4A, any power source (e.g., the power source PS1) may be provided in any one of the first to sixth internal spaces S1A to S6. Other features are the same as those in the first embodiment.

Third embodiment

A bicycle operating device 10 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 12 to 13. The bicycle operating device 10 has the same structure as the bicycle operating device 10 except for the hydraulic unit 122, the position of the first pivot axle 20, the pivot pin 142, the operating member 114, the additional operating member 134, the rotating mechanism 135, the shape and position of the first interior space S1B in the base member 12, and the position of the fourth interior space S4B in the operating member 114. Accordingly, elements having substantially the same function as those in the above-described embodiments will be numbered identically herein and will not be described and/or illustrated in detail herein for the sake of brevity.

As seen in fig. 12 and 13, the bicycle operating device 10 in the third embodiment includes an operating member 114 with a hydraulic unit 122. In the present embodiment, the first pivot axis a1 (the first pivot axle 20) is disposed at the front of the operating member 114 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. The first pivot axis a1 is disposed at a position closer to the second end 12B than the rounded head 12P when viewed from the first direction D1. As shown in fig. 13, the hydraulic unit 122 includes a cylinder bore 124 and a piston 26. Hydraulic unit 122 includes a fluid reservoir 32 connected to a cylinder bore 124. As shown in fig. 13, the cylinder bore 124 is formed as a hole in the operating member 114. However, the cylinder bore 124 may be defined by a hydraulic cylinder that is provided in the operating member 114 and is a different member from the operating member 114. Further, reservoir 32 may be integrated into cylinder bore 124.

The hydraulic unit 122 is disposed rearward of the first pivot axle 20 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. That is, at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. Specifically, the cylinder bore 124 as a whole and the piston 26 as a whole are disposed closer to the first end 12A than the first pivot axis a1 as viewed from the first direction D1. The first pivot axis a1 is disposed closer to the second end 12B than at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122.

At least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed above the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 10. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the link 30 is disposed above the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10. However, another part of the hydraulic unit 122 may also be arranged above the first pivot axis a 1.

In the third embodiment, the base member 12 includes an operating member actuating surface 46 below the rounded head 12P. When the operating member 114 is operated to move from the rest position P11 toward the operating position P12, the operating member actuating surface 46 pushes the tip 31 of the link 30 toward the distal end portion 14B of the operating member 114. The outlet P3 of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed closer to the distal end portion 14B of the operating member 114 than the piston 26.

In the illustrated embodiment, the additional operating member 134 is movably coupled to the base member 12. The additional operating member 134 does not overlap with the operating member 114 when viewed from the first direction D1. Therefore, the operating member 114 does not include the receiving portion 41 and the fifth internal space S5.

As shown in fig. 13, the additional operating member 134 is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 via a rotating mechanism 135. The additional operating member 134 is rotatable about a third pivot axis A3 that is parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. The additional operating member 134 is rotatable about the third pivot axis a3 in the fourth movable direction MD4 to accommodate pivoting of the operating member 114. In the present embodiment, the fourth movable direction MD4 is a circumferential direction defined about the third pivot axis A3. The bicycle operating device 10 includes a pivot pin 142 that defines a third pivot axis a 3. The pivot pin 142 is fixed to the rotation mechanism 135. The additional operating member 134 is pivotally mounted to the rotation mechanism 135 via a pivot pin 142.

The rotary mechanism 135 is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 about a fourth pivot axis a4 that is non-parallel to the first pivot axis a 1. Thus, the additional operating member 134 is rotatable about the fourth pivot axis a 4. The rotating mechanism 135 may have the same structure as that of the additional operating member 34 and the electric switch SW2 in the first embodiment as shown in fig. 5. In the case where the rotation mechanism 135 may have the same structure as the structure constituted by the additional operation member 34 and the electric switch SW2 in the first embodiment, the electric switch SW2 in the rotation mechanism 135 is electrically connected to the wireless communicator WC 1. Alternatively, the rotation mechanism 135 may have a rotation structure that a conventional speed change unit has. For example, the rotation mechanism 135 may have a gear rotatable about the fourth pivot axis a4, a latch for positioning the rotation angle of the gear, and a rotation sensor for detecting the rotation angle of the gear. The rotation mechanism 135 can also include a biasing member similar to the second biasing member 44 to bias the additional operating member 134 toward a particular position (e.g., a rest position or home position).

When the additional operating member 134 is pushed by the user in the first direction D1, which is generally parallel to the third pivot axis A3, the additional operating member 134 pivots relative to the base member 12 about the fourth pivot axis a4 toward an operating position not shown in the figures. This pivotal movement of the additional operating member 134 relative to the base member 12 may be referred to as a second input operation. The rotating mechanism 135 is configured to receive a second input operation from the user to generate a second control signal SG2 in response to the second input operation.

As seen in fig. 13, in the installed state of the bicycle operating device 10, the first interior space S1B is disposed above at least a portion of the hydraulic unit 122 when viewed from the first direction D1. That is, at least a part of the hydraulic unit 122 is disposed below the first internal space S1B. In addition, the first interior space S1B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. The first internal space S1B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122 is when viewed from the first direction D1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B is shaped such that the first internal space S1B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122. Accordingly, the first internal space S1B may have a different shape from the first internal space S1.

The fourth interior space S4B is disposed forward of the first pivot axle 20 in the operating member 114 when viewed from the first direction D1 in the mounted state of the bicycle operating device 210. Therefore, the fourth internal space S4B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1, and the fourth internal space S4B is disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122 when viewed from the first direction D1. The fourth internal space S4B may have a shape corresponding to the front surface of the operating member 114. Therefore, the fourth internal space S4B may have a different shape from the fourth internal space S4.

Therefore, when viewed from the first direction D1, the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122. More specifically, the first interior space S1B and the fourth interior space S4B are disposed closer to the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1. In contrast, the second internal space S2, the third internal space S3, and the fifth internal space S5 are disposed farther from the second end 12B than the hydraulic unit 122 when viewed from the first direction D1. More specifically, the second interior space S2, the third interior space S3, and the fifth interior space S5 are disposed farther from the second end 12B than the first pivot axis a1 when viewed from the first direction D1.

Therefore, in the third embodiment, at least one of the wireless communicator WC1 and the power supply PS1 is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B. In the case where at least one power source (e.g., power source PS1) is disposed in at least one of the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B, any wireless communicator (e.g., wireless communicator WC1) may be provided in any one of the first to fourth and sixth internal spaces S1B to S4B and S6. In contrast, in the case where at least one wireless communicator (e.g., the wireless communicator WC1) is provided in at least one of the first internal space S1B and the fourth internal space S4B, any power source (e.g., the power source PS1) may be provided in any one of the first to fourth internal spaces and the sixth internal spaces S1B to S4B and S6. Other features are the same as in the first embodiment.

Those skilled in the bicycle art will appreciate from this disclosure that the structures of the above-described embodiments can be at least partially combined with each other.

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

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

As used herein, the term "configured to" describe a component, section or portion of a device includes hardware and/or software that is constructed and/or programmed to perform the desired function. The desired functions may be performed by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

Ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are referred to in this application merely as labels, and have no other meaning, e.g., a particular order, etc. Also, 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.

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

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

Claims

1. A bicycle operating device comprising:

a base member including a first end for mounting to a bicycle handlebar and a second end opposite the first end;

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

an electric switch that is activated by an input operation from a user;

a wireless communicator electrically connected to the electrical switch to wirelessly transmit a signal to an additional component in response to the input operation, the wireless communicator being mounted to the second end;

a power source electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator, the power source mounted to the second end; and

a cable electrically connecting the power source to the wireless communicator.

2. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1,

the wireless communicator is disposed at the base member, and/or

The power source is disposed closer to the second end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

3. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, further comprising:

a first pivot shaft pivotally coupling the operating member to the base member about the first pivot axis, wherein,

the operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot shaft and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction about the first pivot shaft, and

the wireless communicator is disposed closer to the distal end than to the proximal end.

4. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, further comprising:

an additional operating member movably mounted to the base member, wherein,

the wireless communicator is provided at the additional operating member, and

5. The bicycle operating device according to claim 4, wherein

The additional operating member is movably coupled to the operating member.

6. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, further comprising a hydraulic unit,

the hydraulic unit includes:

a cylinder bore; and

a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore and

at least one of the cylinder bore and the piston is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

7. The bicycle operating device according to claim 6,

at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

8. The bicycle operating device according to claim 6,

at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore and the entirety of the piston is disposed closer to the first end than at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

9. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, further comprising a hydraulic unit,

the hydraulic unit includes:

a cylinder bore;

a piston movably disposed in the cylinder bore; and

a reservoir connected to the cylinder bore, and

at least one of the cylinder bore, the piston, and the reservoir is at least partially disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

10. The bicycle operating device according to claim 9,

at least one of the entirety of the cylinder bore, the entirety of the piston, and the entirety of the reservoir is disposed closer to the first end than the first pivot axis when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.

11. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1,

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

the power supply is disposed at the round head.

12. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1,

at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed at the base member.

13. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1, further comprising:

the operating member includes a proximal end portion connected to the first pivot shaft and a distal end portion opposite to the proximal end portion in a radial direction about the first pivot axis,

at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source is disposed closer to the proximal end portion than to the distal end portion.

14. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1,

the base member includes a mounting surface at the first end having a curved shape corresponding to a drop down handle.

15. The bicycle operating device according to claim 1,

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

16. A bicycle operating device comprising:

a hydraulic unit coupled to the operating member to operate a bicycle component in response to operation of the operating member;

an electric switch that is activated by an input operation from a user;

a wireless communicator electrically connected to the electrical switch to wirelessly transmit a signal to an additional component in response to the input operation; and

a power source electrically connected to the wireless communicator to supply power to the wireless communicator, at least one of the wireless communicator and the power source being disposed closer to the second end than the hydraulic unit when viewed from a direction parallel to the first pivot axis.