CN117719622A

CN117719622A - Bicycle derailleur

Info

Publication number: CN117719622A
Application number: CN202311105440.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 横泽太; 井土垣慧
Original assignee: Shimano Inc
Current assignee: Shimano Inc
Priority date: 2022-09-16
Filing date: 2023-08-29
Publication date: 2024-03-19
Also published as: DE102022209721A1

Abstract

The bicycle derailleur includes a base member, a movable member, a linkage mechanism, an actuating unit and a power source. The base member is configured to be attached to a frame of a bicycle. The movable member is movable relative to the base member. The linkage mechanism movably connects the movable member to the base member. The link mechanism includes a first link and a second link that at least partially covers the first link when viewed in a direction facing the frame in a state in which the base member is attached to the frame of the bicycle and is configured to face the base member. The actuation unit is configured to move the movable member relative to the base member. The actuation unit is provided to the second link. The power supply is configured to supply power to the actuation unit. A power source is provided to the base member.

Description

Bicycle derailleur

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to bicycle derailleurs. More particularly, the present invention relates to a bicycle derailleur having an actuation unit and a power source configured to supply electrical power to the actuation unit.

Background

Generally, bicycles commonly use a bicycle drive train to transfer pedaling force to the rear wheel. A bicycle drive train typically uses one or two derailleurs to selectively move a bicycle chain from one of a plurality of sprockets to another sprocket to change the rotational ratio between the rotation of the bicycle crank and the rotation of the rear wheel. Some bicycle derailleurs are provided with electrical components or devices to make it easier for the rider to operate the bicycle derailleur. Such bicycle derailleurs typically have an actuation unit that receives power from an on-board power source, such as one or more batteries. In some cases, the power source is provided to the frame of the bicycle, as disclosed in US11 211 663 B2. In some cases, the power source is provided directly to the derailleur of the bicycle, as disclosed in US10 239 579 B2.

Disclosure of Invention

In general, the present invention is directed to various features of a bicycle derailleur having an actuation unit and a power source configured to supply electrical power to the actuation unit.

In view of the state of the known technology, and in accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a bicycle derailleur is provided that basically comprises a base member, a movable member, a linkage mechanism, an actuation unit and a power source. The base member is configured to be attached to a frame of a bicycle. The movable member is movable relative to the base member. The linkage mechanism movably connects the movable member to the base member. The link mechanism includes a first link and a second link that at least partially covers the first link when viewed in a direction facing the frame in a state in which the base member is attached to the frame of the bicycle and is configured to face the base member. The actuation unit is configured to move the movable member relative to the base member. The actuation unit is provided to the second link. The power supply is configured to supply power to the actuation unit. A power source is provided to the base member.

With the bicycle derailleur according to the first aspect, electrical power is conveniently supplied from the power source to the actuation unit while still maintaining a relatively compact arrangement.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, a bicycle derailleur is provided that basically comprises a base member, a movable member, a linkage mechanism, an actuation unit and a power source. The base member is configured to be attached to a frame of a bicycle. The movable member is movable relative to the base member. The linkage mechanism movably connects the movable member to the base member. The link mechanism includes a first link and a second link that at least partially covers the first link when viewed in a direction facing the frame in a state in which the base member is attached to the frame of the bicycle and is configured to face the base member. The actuation unit is configured to move the movable member relative to the base member. An actuation unit is provided to one of the movable member and the first link. The power supply is configured to supply power to the actuation unit. A power source is provided to the movable member.

With the bicycle derailleur according to the second aspect, electrical power is conveniently supplied from the power source to the actuation unit while still maintaining a relatively compact arrangement.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the second aspect is configured such that the actuating unit is provided to the first link. With the bicycle derailleur according to the third aspect, the actuation unit can be conveniently located for moving the movable member relative to the base member.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to third aspects further includes a cable disposed between the actuation unit and the power source. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fourth aspect, electrical power can be conveniently supplied from the electrical power source to the actuation unit using the electrical cable.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the fourth aspect is configured such that the cable electrically connects the actuation unit and the power source for supplying electrical power from the power source to the actuation unit. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fifth aspect, electrical power can be conveniently supplied from the electrical power source to the actuation unit using the electrical cable.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to fifth aspects further includes a cable holding portion configured to at least partially hold a cable. With the bicycle derailleur according to the sixth aspect, the cable can be held in a position such that the cable is not damaged during operation of the bicycle derailleur.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured such that the actuation unit includes an actuation unit housing, a motor, a plurality of gears and an actuation unit electrical contact portion. The power supply includes a power supply housing having a battery cell and a power supply electrical contact portion. The cable comprises a first cable contact portion connected to the actuation unit electrical contact portion and a second cable contact portion connected to the power supply electrical contact portion. With the bicycle derailleur according to the seventh aspect, the actuation unit and the power source can be easily connected together for supplying electrical power from the power source to the actuation unit.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the second aspect is configured such that the actuating unit is provided to the movable member. With the bicycle derailleur according to the eighth aspect, the actuation unit is easily accessible from the movable member.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to the eighth aspect is configured such that the power source is disposed farther from the linkage mechanism than the actuating unit. With the bicycle derailleur according to the ninth aspect, the power supply can be easily accessed for replacement or recharging.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, a bicycle derailleur according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the actuation unit includes an actuation unit housing, a motor, a plurality of gears and an actuation unit electrical contact portion. The power supply includes a power supply housing having a battery cell and a power supply electrical contact portion. The actuation unit electrical contact portion and the power supply electrical contact portion are electrically connected to each other. With the bicycle derailleur according to the tenth aspect, the actuation unit and the power source can be easily connected together for supplying electric power from the power source to the actuation unit.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to tenth aspects further includes a first wireless communicator and a second wireless communicator. The first wireless communicator is configured to communicate with a bicycle component. The second wireless communicator is for communicating with at least one of a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet device, and a cycle computer. With the bicycle derailleur according to the eleventh aspect, the bicycle derailleur can communicate wirelessly with the bicycle component and at least one of a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet device and a bicycle computer.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is configured such that the actuation unit electrical contact portion is connectable with an additional cable that is electrically connected to an additional power source provided at a different location than the derailleur. With the bicycle derailleur according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to switch power from the power supply of the bicycle derailleur to the additional power supply when the power from the power supply is exhausted.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured such that it further includes a controller configured to control the motor. The controller functions as a slave controller relative to a master controller that is located remotely from the bicycle derailleur. With the bicycle derailleur according to the thirteenth aspect, the bicycle derailleur can be easily controlled by a remote main controller.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects is configured such that it further includes an acceleration sensor located in the actuation unit. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fourteenth aspect, the acceleration of the bicycle to which the bicycle derailleur is mounted can be determined for assisting in the timing of shifting of the bicycle derailleur without requiring a separate acceleration sensor.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects is configured such that it further includes an acceleration sensor located outside the actuation unit. With the bicycle derailleur according to the fifteenth aspect, the acceleration sensor that has been provided to the bicycle to which the bicycle derailleur is mounted can be used to determine the acceleration of the bicycle to which the bicycle derailleur is mounted for assisting in the timing of shifting of the bicycle derailleur.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle derailleur according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects further includes an electrical connection portion configured to be coupled to a charging cable for charging a power source. With the bicycle derailleur according to the sixteenth aspect, the power supply can be easily recharged when the power from the power supply is exhausted.

Further, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed bicycle derailleur will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses a preferred embodiment of the bicycle derailleur.

Drawings

Selected embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure, in which

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a bicycle equipped with a rear derailleur (i.e., a bicycle derailleur) and a front derailleur (i.e., a bicycle derailleur) in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a contour view of the bicycle equipped with the rear and front derailleurs illustrated in FIG. 1, as viewed from the front of the bicycle and in a longitudinal direction to show a bicycle center plane that vertically bisects the frame of the bicycle;

FIG. 3 is an outside elevational view of the bicycle derailleur coupled to the bicycle frame with the actuation unit disposed to the second (outer) link and connected to the pivot pin that connects the second (outer) link to the base member;

FIG. 4 is an inside elevational view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1-3;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 with the chain guide of the rear bicycle derailleur removed;

FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, similar to FIG. 5, but with a portion of the second (outer) link removed;

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the second (outer) link of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, with selected portions of the actuating unit shown;

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a control system including a rear bicycle derailleur and a drive unit;

FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of a modified rear bicycle derailleur in which the actuating unit is mounted to the second (outer) link and connected to a pivot pin that connects the second (outer) link to the movable member;

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of a modified rear bicycle derailleur in which an actuating unit is provided to a movable member and connected to a pivot pin that connects a second (outer) link to the movable member;

FIG. 11 is an outside elevational view of the rear bicycle derailleur with the actuation unit being provided to the first (inner) link and connected to the pivot pin that connects the first (inner) link to the base member;

FIG. 12 is an inside elevational view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is an inside elevational view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12 with selected parts removed;

FIG. 14 is an inside elevational view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, with selected parts removed;

FIG. 15 is a top oblique view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 11-14, with selected portions removed;

FIG. 16 is a top oblique view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 15, similar to FIG. 15, with additional parts removed;

FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the rear bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIGS. 11-16 with additional components removed;

FIG. 18 is an outside elevational view of the front bicycle derailleur with the actuation unit disposed to the second (outer) link and the power source disposed to the base member;

FIG. 19 is a front elevational view of the front bicycle derailleur illustrated in FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a front elevational view of the front bicycle derailleur illustrated, with the actuation unit being provided to the first (inner) link and the power source being provided to the movable member; and

FIG. 21 is a front elevational view of the front bicycle derailleur illustrated, with both the actuation unit and the power source provided to the movable member.

Detailed Description

It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a bicycle B is illustrated that is equipped with a first bicycle derailleur 10A and a second bicycle derailleur 10B in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Here, the bicycle B is illustrated as an electric assist bicycle. However, the first and second bicycle derailleurs 10A and 10B can be applied to any other type of bicycle such as mountain bikes, off-road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes and recumbent bikes.

As shown in fig. 1, the bicycle B includes a bicycle frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The bicycle frame F basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (swing arm). The bicycle frame F is further provided with a front fork FF and a handlebar H for steering the bicycle B. The bicycle B further includes an adjustable seat post SP coupled to the seat tube of the bicycle frame F for supporting the bicycle seat S at an upper end.

Bicycle B also includes a drive train DT. Here, for example, the drive train DT is a chain drive type including a crank C, a plurality of front sprockets FS, a plurality of rear sprockets RS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank axle CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crank axle CA1 is rotatably supported on the front frame body FB. Crank arms CA2 are provided on opposite ends of the crank axle CA 1. A pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each crank arm CA2. The front sprocket FS is provided on the crank C to rotate integrally with the crank shaft CA 1. The rear sprocket RS is disposed on the hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN extends around the front sprocket FS and the rear sprocket RS. The rider of the bicycle B applies a manual driving force to the pedals PD such that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FS, the chain CN and the rear sprocket RS. While the drive train DT is illustrated as a chain drive type drive train, the drive train DT may be selected from any type of drive train and may be of a belt drive type or a shaft drive type.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first bicycle derailleur 10A is an electric rear derailleur and the second bicycle derailleur 10B is an electric front derailleur. The first bicycle derailleur 10A is configured to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS in response to an automatic shift signal from a cycle computer or a shift signal input by a user from an operating device OD such as an electric shift lever. The second bicycle derailleur 10B is configured to shift the chain CN between the front sprockets FS in response to an automatic shift signal from a cycle computer or a user input shift signal from the operating device OD.

Here, the bicycle B further includes a driving unit DU configured to apply a propulsive force to the crank axle CA1 of the bicycle B. The drive unit DU has an electric motor provided in a housing mounted to the front frame body FB. The electric motor of the drive unit DU is, for example, a brushless motor. The driving unit DU may include a decelerator connected to an output shaft of the motor. In the present embodiment, the housing of the drive unit DU rotatably supports the crank shaft CA1. Preferably, a one-way clutch is provided in a power transmission path between the motor of the driving unit DU and the crank axle CA1 to limit transmission of the rotational force of the crank C to the motor of the driving unit DU in the case where the crank axle CA1 rotates in the direction in which the bicycle B moves forward.

The power supply BT is provided to the bicycle frame F for supplying electric power to the drive unit DU. Here, the power source BT is disposed inside the down tube of the bicycle frame F. Alternatively, the power source BT may be provided to a portion of the bicycle frame F. The power source BT can also be electrically connected to other electrical components of the bicycle B if needed and/or desired. For example, the power source BT can be electrically connected to one or both of the bicycle derailleur 10A and the bicycle derailleur 10B with a cable to supply power thereto. Here, the power source BT is located at a position remote from the bicycle derailleur 10A and the bicycle derailleur 10B. As described below, each of the bicycle derailleur 10A and the bicycle derailleur 10B has its own power supply. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the power source of the bicycle derailleur 10A is not electrically connected to the bicycle derailleur 10B. Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the power source of the bicycle derailleur 10B is not electrically connected to the bicycle derailleur 10A. Alternatively, the power source of the bicycle derailleur 10A can be electrically connected to the bicycle derailleur 10B to supply backup power to the bicycle derailleur 10B. Similarly, the power source of the bicycle derailleur 10B can be electrically connected to the bicycle derailleur 10A to supply backup power to the bicycle derailleur 10A.

Referring to fig. 2, a profile of a bicycle B is illustrated as being viewed from the front of the bicycle B and along a longitudinal direction to show a bicycle center plane CP that vertically bisects a frame F of the bicycle B. The bicycle center plane CP passes through the center of the bicycle frame F in the width direction of the bicycle frame F. The bicycle center plane CP separates the left and right sides of the bicycle B. The following directional terms "forward", "rearward", "left", "right", "lateral", "longitudinal", "upward" and "downward" as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions as determined on the basis of a rider sitting upright on the seat S of bicycle B while facing the handlebar H of bicycle B.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 to 7, the first bicycle derailleur 10A (hereinafter referred to simply as "bicycle derailleur 10A" for brevity) will be discussed in more detail herein. As mentioned above, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 7, the first bicycle derailleur 10A is an electric rear derailleur. The bicycle derailleur 10A basically includes a base member 12, a movable member 14, a linkage mechanism 16, an actuating unit 18 and a power supply 20. The base member 12 is configured to be attached to a frame F of a bicycle B. The movable member 14 is movable relative to the base member 12. Specifically, the linkage 16 movably connects the movable member 14 to the base member 12. The actuation unit 18 is configured to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12 in response to a shift operation. The shift operation can be a manual shift operation in which the operating device OD or some other operating device is operated to generate a shift signal that is transmitted to the actuating unit 18 to operate the bicycle derailleur 10A. The shift operation may also be an automatic shift operation in which a shift signal is generated by the controller based on one or more operating conditions of bicycle B.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 3-7, the actuation unit 18 is provided to the linkage 16 and the power source 20 is provided to the base member 12. The arrangement of the actuation unit 18 and the power supply 20 of the bicycle derailleur 10A can also be applied to a front derailleur as explained below. Basically, the actuation unit 18 is configured to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. In other words, the actuation unit 18 is operatively connected between the linkage 16 and one of the base member 12 and the movable member 14 to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. The power supply 20 is configured to supply power to the actuation unit 18. As schematically shown in fig. 8, the power supply 20 includes a power supply housing 20A having a battery cell 20B and a power supply electrical contact portion 20C.

The bicycle derailleur 10A also includes a cable 22 disposed between the actuation unit 18 and the power source 20. A cable 22 electrically connects the actuation unit 18 and the power source 20 for providing power from the power source 20 to the actuation unit 18. Preferably, the bicycle derailleur 10A further includes a cable retaining portion 24 configured to at least partially retain the cable 22. Here, the cable holding portion 24 is provided to the link mechanism 16.

As described above, the base member 12 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle frame F. Specifically, the base member 12 includes a frame mounting structure such as a fixing bolt 26 configured to be attached to a bicycle frame F. Thus, the base member 12 is laterally stationary relative to the bicycle frame F when the movable member 14 is moved to shift the chain CN. The base member 12 is preferably constructed of a rigid material such as a lightweight metal (e.g., aluminum alloy or fiber reinforced plastic). Preferably, the base member 12 is pivotally mounted on a fixing bolt 26 defining a pivot axis P1. The pivot axis P1 is sometimes referred to as the B-axis. The base member 12 may also include an adjustment member 30 for limiting relative movement of the movable member 14 with respect to the base member 12 in a conventional manner. Here, the adjustment member 30 includes a pair of adjustment bolts configured to define an outermost position of the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12 and an innermost position of the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. Preferably, the adjustment bolt of the adjustment member 30 is contactable with the second link 16B to control the range of motion of the second link 16B relative to the base member 12.

As described above, the linkage 16 movably connects the movable member 14 to the base member 12. Specifically, the linkage mechanism 16 includes a first link 16A and a second link 16B, and in a state in which the base member 12 is attached to the frame F of the bicycle B as shown in fig. 3, the second link 16B at least partially covers the first link 16A when viewed in a direction facing the frame F and is configured to face the base member 12. The first and second links 16A and 16B allow relative movement of the movable member 14 with respect to the base member 12 when the bicycle derailleur 10A shifts the chain CN in a lateral direction. Here, the actuating unit 18 is provided to the second link 16B. The actuation unit 18 is configured to apply torque between the second link 16B and the base member 12 such that the second link 16B pivots relative to the base member 12 as described below. Alternatively, as described below, the actuation unit 18 is provided to one of the movable member 14 and the first link 16A. To assist in mounting the actuation unit 18 to the second link 16B, as shown in fig. 3 and 7, the second link 16B includes a first arm 16B1 and a second arm 16B2. The first arm 16B1 and the second arm 16B2 are fastened together to form a second link 16B. Here, the actuation unit 18 is at least partially disposed between the first arm portion 16B1 and the second arm portion 16B2.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second link 16B is positioned farther from the bicycle center plane CP than the first link 16A in the state in which the bicycle derailleur 10A is mounted to the bicycle frame F as seen in FIG. 1. In other words, the first link 16A is located inside the second link 16B with respect to the bicycle center plane CP in a state in which the bicycle derailleur 10A is mounted to the bicycle frame F. On the other hand, the second link 16B is located outside the first link 16A with respect to the bicycle center plane CP. Thus, here, the first link 16A can be considered an inner link because the first link 16A is closer to the bicycle center plane CP than the second link 16B, and the second link 16B can be considered an outer link because the second link 16B is farther from the bicycle center plane CP than the first link 16A.

The first link 16A and the second link 16B will now be discussed. The first link 16A and the second link 16B operably couple the movable member 14 to the base member 12 to allow relative movement of the movable member 14 with respect to the base member 12. The first link 16A and the second link 16B are pivotally connected to the base member 12 and the movable member 14. Specifically, the first link 16A includes a first end portion that is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 by a first pivot pin 31 to pivot about a first pivot axis A1. The first link 16A also includes a second end portion that is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 by a second pivot pin 32 to pivot about a second pivot axis A2. The second link 16B includes a first end portion that is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 by a third pivot pin 33 to pivot about a third pivot axis A3. The second link 16B also includes a second end portion that is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14 by a fourth pivot pin 34 to pivot about a fourth pivot axis A4. Thus, the first link 16A and the second link 16B have a first end portion pivotally connected to the base member 12 and a second end portion pivotally connected to the movable member 14 to define a four bar linkage arrangement. The linkage 16 preferably also includes a biasing member interposed between the first link 16A and the second link 16B to occupy any gap in the linkage 16. For example, the biasing member is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted about the second pivot pin 32, a first leg portion in contact with the first link 16A and a second leg portion in contact with the movable member 14.

The movable member 14 is constructed of a suitable rigid material such as an aluminum alloy or a fiber reinforced plastic. Basically, the movable member 14 is movably disposed relative to the base member 12 to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Here, the bicycle derailleur 10A further includes a chain guide 40 pivotally coupled to the movable member 14. Specifically, the chain guide 40 is pivotally mounted to the movable member 14 by a shaft 42 to pivot about a chain guide pivot axis P2, the chain guide pivot axis P2 sometimes being referred to as the P-axis. The chain guide 40 basically includes a pair of chain retaining plates 44. The chain retaining plate 44 is constructed of a suitable rigid material such as an aluminum alloy or fiber reinforced plastic. Here, the chain guide 40 further includes a tension pulley 46 and a guide pulley 48. Both the tension pulley 46 and the guide pulley 48 are rotatably disposed between the chain retaining plates 44. The tensioning sheave 46 and the guide sheave 48 are constructed of a suitable rigid material, such as plastic. The retracted position of the chain guide 40 corresponds to the guide pulley 48 of the chain guide 40 being positioned over the smallest one of the rear sprockets RS. The extended position of the chain guide 40 corresponds to the guide pulley 48 of the chain guide 40 being positioned above the largest one of the rear sprockets RS.

The actuation unit 18 includes an actuation unit housing 50, a motor 52, a plurality of gears 54, and actuation unit electrical contact portions 56. The actuation unit housing 50 is fixedly mounted to the second link 16B such that the actuation unit 18 moves with the second link 16B. The actuation unit housing 50 houses a motor 52 and a gear 54. Preferably, the actuation unit housing 50 is at least partially constructed of a material that allows wireless signals to pass therethrough without interfering with the wireless signals. The actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 and the power electrical contact portion 20C are electrically connected to each other. Here, the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 of the actuation unit 18 is electrically connected to the power supply electrical contact portion 20C of the power supply 20 by the cable 22.

As schematically shown in fig. 8, the cable 22 includes a first cable contact portion 22A connected to the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 and a second cable contact portion 22B connected to the power supply electrical contact portion 20C. Preferably, the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 and the power supply electrical contact portion 20C are pluggable electrical connectors. Thus, for example, the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 is located in the actuation unit electrical port 50A of the actuation unit housing 50, and the power supply electrical contact portion 20C is located in the power supply electrical port 20A1 of the power supply housing 20A. The actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 is connectable with an additional cable EC that is electrically connected to an additional power source (e.g., power source BT) disposed at a different location than the bicycle derailleur 10A. In this way, actuation unit 18 is able to receive power from an additional power source (e.g., power source BT) if the power level of power source 20 falls below a predetermined power level. Specifically, the user may disconnect the cable 22 from the actuation-unit electrical contact portion 56 and then electrically connect the actuation unit 18 to an additional power source (e.g., power source BT).

As shown in fig. 6, the actuation unit 18 is disposed on the second link 16B such that the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 passes through a reference line RL extending between the third pivot axis A3 and the fourth pivot axis A4. The power source 20 is also disposed on the base member 12 such that the power source electrical contact portion 20C passes through a reference line RL extending between the third pivot axis A3 and the fourth pivot axis A4. Further, the reference line RL divides the power supply 20 into a first partition SA1 and a second partition SA2. The first partition SA1 is closer to the first link 16A than the second partition SA2. The first partition SA1 has a volume larger than that of the second partition SA2.

The motor 52 is a reversible electric motor having an output shaft 52a connected to a gear 54. Gear 54 is configured to form a gear reducer 58 and an output gear 60. The gear reducer 58 operatively couples the output shaft 52a of the motor 52 to the output gear 60 such that the rotational speed of the output gear 60 is reduced relative to the rotational speed of the output shaft 52 a. The output gear 60 constitutes an output member of the actuation unit 18. Here, the output gear 60 is a sector gear fixed to the third pivot pin 33, which is non-rotatably fixed to the base member 12. Thus, rotation of the output gear 60 by the motor 52 via the gear reducer 58 causes the second link 16B to pivot on the third pivot pin 33 relative to the base member 12. Due to the pivotal movement of the second link 16B, the linkage mechanism 16 moves the movable member 14 and the chain guide 40 relative to the base member 12.

In this embodiment, the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18 is located at least partially farther from the base member 12 than the output member (e.g., output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18. The circuit board 64 of the actuation unit 18 is located at least partially between the output member (e.g., the output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18 and the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18. Here, the output member (e.g., output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18 is located at least partially farther from the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 than the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18. Further, the output member (e.g., output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18 is at least partially located farther from the movable member 14 than the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18.

The bicycle derailleur 10A also includes a controller 62 configured to control the motor 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 62 is an electronic controller disposed in the actuation unit housing 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 62 is disposed on a circuit board 64 disposed in the actuation unit housing 50. As shown in fig. 7, the circuit board 64 is located at least partially between the output member (e.g., the output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18 and the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18.

The controller 62 is preferably a microcomputer or Central Processing Unit (CPU) that includes at least one processor 62A and memory 62B (i.e., at least one computer storage device). The controller 62 is formed of one or more semiconductor chips mounted on a circuit board 64. The terms "controller" and "electronic controller" as used herein refer to hardware executing a software program and do not include humans. The storage device stores a program used by the controller 62. Memory 62B is any computer storage device or any computer-readable medium other than a transitory propagating signal. For example, the memory 62B may be a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory, and may include a ROM (read only memory) device, a RAM (random access memory) device, a hard disk, a flash drive, and the like.

Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the actuation unit 18 also includes a motor circuit 66 disposed on the circuit board 64. The motor circuit 66 calculates the rotation amount of the motor 52 in response to the shift signal, and controls the motor 52 to rotate by the calculated rotation amount.

As seen in fig. 2 and 8, the bicycle derailleur 10A further includes an electrical connection portion 68 configured to be coupled to a charging cable for charging the power source 20. The electrical connection portion 68 is different from the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56. The electrical connection portion 68 is preferably a pluggable electrical connector covered by an elastomeric cover. Here, the electrical connection portion 68 is provided on the actuation unit 18. More specifically, the electrical connection portion 68 is electrically connected to a charging circuit provided on the circuit board 64. When the additional cable EC is electrically connected to the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56, an additional power source (e.g., power source BT) may also be charged with the electrical connection portion 68. Specifically, the user may disconnect the cable 22 from the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 and then electrically connect an additional power source (e.g., power source BT) to the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 with the additional cable EC. In this way, the additional power source (e.g., power source BT) is charged via the charging circuit provided on the circuit board 64.

Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10A further includes a first wireless communicator 70 and a second wireless communicator 72. The term "wireless communicator" as used herein includes a receiver, transmitter, transceiver, transmitter-receiver and encompasses any one or more, individual or combined devices capable of transmitting and/or receiving wireless communication signals including shift signals or control, instructions or other signals related to certain functions of controlled components. The first wireless communicator 70 is used to communicate with bicycle components. For example, the first wireless communicator 70 of the bicycle derailleur 10A can communicate with one or more of the following bicycle components: the operating device OD (shifter), a switch for the drive unit DU, the adjustable seat post SP, a pneumatic sensor of the tire of the rear wheel RW, a pneumatic sensor of the tire of the front wheel FW and the bicycle derailleur 10B. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wireless communicator 70 communicates with at least the operating device OD for receiving shift signals. The second wireless communicator 72 is for communicating with at least one of a smart phone, a personal computer, a tablet device and a cycle computer. For example, the second wireless communicator 72 communicates with a cycle computer for outputting status information related to the current status of the bicycle derailleur 10A. The second wireless communicator may be used to wirelessly communicate with at least one of a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet device, and a cycle computer in order to update the firmware of the actuation unit.

Here, it is preferable that both the first wireless communicator 70 and the second wireless communicator 72 are provided in the actuation unit housing 50. More preferably, both the first wireless communicator 70 and the second wireless communicator 72 are disposed on the circuit board 64. In this manner, the first wireless communicator 70 and the second wireless communicator 72 are located at least partially between the output member (e.g., the output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18 and the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18.

The wireless control signals of the first wireless communicator 70 and the second wireless communicator 72 may be Radio Frequency (RF) signals, ultra-widebandSignal, radio Frequency Identification (RFID), ANT+ communication orCommunication, or any other type of signal suitable for short range wireless communication as understood in the bicycle art. It should also be appreciated that the first wireless communicator 70 and the second wireless communicator 72 may transmit signals at a particular frequency and/or with an identifier such as a particular code to distinguish the wireless control signals from other wireless control signals. In this way, the bicycle component can identify which control signals are to be executed and which control signals are not to be executed. Thus, the bicycle component can ignore control signals from other wireless communicators of other bicycle components.

The bicycle derailleur 10A also includes an acceleration sensor 74 located in the actuation unit. The term "sensor" as used herein refers to a hardware device or instrument designed to detect the presence or absence of a particular event, object, substance, or change in its environment, and to emit a response signal. The term "sensor" as used herein does not include humans. The acceleration sensor 74 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the acceleration in the direction in which the bicycle B moves forward. The acceleration sensor 74 is connected to the electronic controller 62 via the circuit board 64 or a cable. The acceleration sensor 74 may be, for example, an accelerometer or a rotational speed sensor (e.g., a magnetic reed or hall element forming a reed switch) that detects rotation of the tension pulley 46 or the guide pulley 48 and wherein the controller 62 differentiates the rotational speed.

Using the acceleration sensor 74, the controller 62 is configured to determine whether the current acceleration has reached a threshold for performing an automatic shift operation. Further, the controller 62 is configured to determine if the shift operation has been completed if the sensor senses movement of the chain guide 40 relative to the movable member 14.

Alternatively, as schematically illustrated in FIG. 8, the bicycle derailleur 10A also includes an acceleration sensor 76 that is located outside of the actuation unit 18. Here, for example, the acceleration sensor 76 may include a forward speed sensor (e.g., a magnetic reed or hall element forming a reed switch), an electronic controller, and a wireless communicator. In this case, the electronic controller of the acceleration sensor 76 determines the acceleration of the bicycle B by differentiating the forward speed of the bicycle B and wirelessly transmits the acceleration information to one of the first wireless communicator 70 and the second wireless communicator 72.

The bicycle derailleur 10A can further include a pedal frequency sensor, a bicycle running speed sensor, a bicycle inclination sensor and a gear ratio sensor for determining an automatic shift of the bicycle derailleur 10A based at least in part on at least one of the pedal frequency, the bicycle running speed, the inclination of the bicycle and the gear ratio.

Preferably, the controller 62 functions as a slave controller with respect to a main or master controller ECU that is located remotely from the bicycle derailleur 10A. The main controller ECU is preferably a microcomputer or Central Processing Unit (CPU) including at least one processor and memory (i.e., at least one computer storage device). Here, for example, as shown in fig. 8, the main controller ECU is located at the drive unit DU, which also includes the power supply BT. Thus, the main controller ECU can be located at a power source BT that is remotely located relative to the bicycle derailleur 10A. Here, the driving unit DU includes a motor unit MU having a motor controlled by the main controller ECU. The motor unit MU is operatively coupled to the crank axle CA1 for assisting in propelling the bicycle B. The drive unit DU is provided with a wireless communicator WC for receiving and/or transmitting various signals to other components of the bicycle B.

Here, the wireless communicator WC is configured to transmit at least wireless signals such that the wireless communicator WC is capable of communicating with the bicycle derailleur 10A as explained below. Preferably, the wireless communicator WC is a two-way wireless transceiver that performs two-way wireless communication using a wireless receiver for wirelessly receiving signals and a wireless transmitter for wirelessly transmitting signals. In this embodiment, the wireless communicator WC can communicate wirelessly with the bicycle derailleur 10A and other components of the bicycle, if needed and/or desired.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a first variation of the bicycle derailleur 10A is illustrated. Here, the bicycle derailleur 10A has been modified such that the output gear 60 (sector gear) of the actuation unit 18 is fixed to the fourth pivot pin 34 that is non-rotatably fixed to the movable member 14. Thus, rotation of the output gear 60 by the motor 52 via the gear reducer 58 causes the second link 16B to pivot on the fourth pivot pin 34 relative to the movable member 14. Due to the pivotal movement of the second link 16B, the linkage mechanism 16 moves the movable member 14 and the chain guide 40 relative to the base member 12.

In a first variation, the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18 is located at least partially farther from the movable member 14 than the output member (e.g., the output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18. Furthermore, the output member (e.g., output gear 60) of the actuation unit 18 is located at least partially farther from the actuation unit electrical contact portion 56 than the motor 52 of the actuation unit 18.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a second variation of the bicycle derailleur 10A is illustrated. Here, the bicycle derailleur 10A has been modified such that the actuating unit 18 is provided to the movable member 14. Further, in the second modification, the power supply 20 is provided to the movable member 14. Here, the chain guide 40 is located on the first side of the movable member 14 in an axial direction relative to the second pivot axis P2. The power source 20 is located on a second side of the movable member 14 in an axial direction relative to the second pivot axis P2. The second side of the movable member 14 is opposite to the first side of the movable member 14 in the axial direction with respect to the second pivot axis P2. Further, the power supply 20 is disposed farther from the link mechanism 16 than the actuation unit 18.

In the second modification, the output gear 60 (sector gear) of the actuation unit 18 is fixed to the fourth pivot pin 34 that is non-rotatably fixed to the second link 16B. Thus, rotation of the output gear 60 by the motor 52 via the gear reducer 58 causes the movable member 14 to pivot on the fourth pivot pin 34 relative to the second link 16B. Due to the pivotal movement of the movable member 14, the linkage 16 moves the movable member 14 and the chain guide 40 relative to the base member 12. Further, in the second modification, since both the actuation unit 18 and the power supply 20 are provided on the movable member 14, no cable is required. Conversely, the actuation unit electrical contact portion of the actuation unit 18 may be directly connected to the power supply electrical contact portion of the power supply 20.

Referring now to fig. 11 to 17, a rear bicycle derailleur 110A (hereinafter referred to simply as "bicycle derailleur 110A" for brevity) is illustrated in accordance with another embodiment. Similar to the bicycle derailleur 10A, the bicycle derailleur 110A basically includes a base member 112, a movable member 114, a linkage mechanism 116, an actuating unit 118 and a power supply 120. The power supply 120 includes a power supply housing 120A having a battery unit 120B and is configured to supply power to the actuation unit 118. Specifically, the bicycle derailleur 110A further includes a cable 122 disposed between the actuation unit 118 and the power supply 120. A cable 122 electrically connects the actuation unit 118 and the power source 120 for providing power from the power source 120 to the actuation unit 118. Preferably, the bicycle derailleur 110A further includes a cable retaining portion 124 configured to at least partially retain the cable 122. Here, as shown in fig. 13 and 14, the cable holding portion 124 is provided to the link mechanism 116.

The linkage mechanism 116 includes a first link 116A and a second link 116B, with the second link 116B at least partially covering the first link 116A when viewed in a direction facing the frame F in a state in which the base member 112 is attached to the frame F of the bicycle B as shown in fig. 11. Specifically, the base member 112 includes a frame mounting structure such as a fixing bolt 126 configured to be attached to a bicycle frame F. To assist in the mounting of the actuation unit 118 to the first link 116A, the first link 116A includes a first arm 116A1 and a second arm 116A2. The first arm 116A1 and the second arm 116A2 are fastened together to form a first link 116A. Here, the actuation unit 118 is at least partially disposed between the first arm 116A1 and the second arm 116A2. Here, as shown in fig. 13 and 14, the cable holding portion 124 is provided to the first link 116A of the link mechanism 116.

Preferably, the base member 112 may further comprise an adjustment member 130 for restricting relative movement of the movable member 114 with respect to the base member 112 in a conventional manner. Here, the adjustment member 130 includes a pair of adjustment bolts configured to define an outermost position of the movable member 114 relative to the base member 112 and an innermost position of the movable member 114 relative to the base member 112. Preferably, the adjustment bolt of the adjustment member 130 is contactable with the first link 116A to control the range of motion of the first link 116A relative to the base member 112.

Here, in the bicycle derailleur 110A, the actuating unit 118 is provided to the first link 116A. Further, in the bicycle derailleur 110A, a power supply 120 is provided to the movable member 114. Similar to the first embodiment, a cable 122 electrically connects the power source 120 to the actuation unit 118. The function, movement and operation of the bicycle derailleur 110A is basically identical to the bicycle derailleur 10A, except for the positions of the actuation unit 118 and the cable 122. Accordingly, the following description of the bicycle derailleur 110A will focus on the differences between the bicycle derailleur 110A and the bicycle derailleur 10A.

In a state in which the base member 112 is attached to the frame F of the bicycle B, as seen in FIG. 11, the bicycle derailleur 110A is configured to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS in response to an automatic shift signal from a bicycle computer or a user-input shift signal from the operating device OD (FIG. 1). That is, the actuation unit 118 is configured to move the movable member 114 relative to the base member 112 in response to a shift operation. The shift operation can be a manual shift operation in which the operating device OD or some other operating device is operated to generate a shift signal that is transmitted to the actuation unit 118 to operate the bicycle derailleur 110A. The shift operation may also be an automatic shift operation in which a shift signal is generated by the controller based on one or more operating conditions of bicycle B.

The first link 116A and the second link 116B will now be discussed. The first link 116A and the second link 116B operably couple the movable member 114 to the base member 112 to allow relative movement of the movable member 114 with respect to the base member 112. The first link 116A and the second link 116B are pivotally connected to the base member 112 and the movable member 114. Specifically, the first link 116A includes a first end portion that is pivotably coupled to the base member 112 by a first pivot pin 131 to pivot about a first pivot axis A1. The first link 116A also includes a second end portion that is pivotally coupled to the movable member 114 by a second pivot pin 132 to pivot about a second pivot axis A2. The second link 116B includes a first end portion that is pivotably coupled to the base member 112 by a third pivot pin 133 to pivot about a third pivot axis A3. The second link 116B also includes a second end portion that is pivotally coupled to the movable member 114 by a fourth pivot pin 134 to pivot about a fourth pivot axis A4. Thus, the first link 116A and the second link 116B have a first end portion pivotally connected to the base member 112 and a second end portion pivotally connected to the movable member 114 to define a four-bar linkage arrangement. The linkage 116 preferably also includes a biasing member 115, the biasing member 115 interposed between the first link 116A and the second link 116B to occupy any gap in the linkage 116. For example, the biasing member 115 is a torsion spring having a coiled portion mounted about the second pivot pin 132, a first leg portion in contact with the first link 116A, and a second leg portion in contact with the movable member 114.

Basically, the movable member 114 is movably disposed relative to the base member 112 to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Here, the bicycle derailleur 110A further includes a chain guide 140 that is pivotally coupled to the movable member 114. Specifically, the chain guide 140 is pivotally mounted to the movable member 114 by a shaft 142 to pivot about a chain guide pivot axis P2, the chain guide pivot axis P2 sometimes being referred to as the P-axis. The chain guide 140 basically includes a pair of chain retaining plates 144. The chain retaining plate 144 is constructed of a suitable rigid material such as an aluminum alloy or fiber reinforced plastic. Here, the chain guide 140 further includes a tension pulley 146 and a guide pulley 148. Both the tension pulley 146 and the guide pulley 148 are rotatably disposed between the chain holding plates 144.

The actuation unit 118 includes an actuation unit housing 150, a motor 152, a plurality of gears 154, and actuation unit electrical contact portions 156. The actuation unit housing 150 is fixedly mounted to the first link 116A such that the actuation unit 118 moves with the first link 116A. The actuation unit housing 150 houses a motor 152 and a gear 154. Preferably, the actuation unit housing 150 is at least partially made of a material that allows wireless signals to pass through without interfering with the wireless signals. The actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 and the power supply electrical contact portion 120C of the power supply 120 are electrically connected to each other. Here, the actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 of the actuation unit 118 is electrically connected to the power supply electrical contact portion 120C of the power supply 120 by the cable 122.

The cable 122 includes a first cable contact portion 122A connected to the actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 and a second cable contact portion 122B connected to the power supply electrical contact portion 120C. Preferably, the actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 and the power supply electrical contact portion 120C are pluggable electrical connectors. Thus, for example, the actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 is located in an actuation unit electrical port of the actuation unit housing 150 and the power supply electrical contact portion 120C is located in a power supply electrical port of the power supply housing 120A. The actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 is connectable with an additional cable (e.g., cable EC) that is electrically connected to an additional power source (e.g., power source BT) disposed at a different location than the bicycle derailleur 110A. In this way, the actuation unit 118 is able to receive power from an additional power source (e.g., power source BT) if the power level of the power source 120 falls below a predetermined power level. Specifically, the user may disconnect the cable 122 from the actuation-unit electrical contact portion 156 and then electrically connect the actuation unit 118 to an additional power source (e.g., power source BT).

The motor 152 is a reversible electric motor having an output shaft 152a connected to a gear 154. Gear 154 is configured to form a gear reducer 158 and an output gear 160. The gear reducer 158 operatively couples the output shaft 152a of the motor 152 to the output gear 160 such that the rotational speed of the output gear 160 is reduced relative to the rotational speed of the output shaft 152 a. The output gear 160 constitutes an output member of the actuation unit 118. Here, the output gear 160 is a sector gear fixed to the first pivot pin 131, which is non-rotatably fixed to the base member 112. Thus, rotation of the output gear 160 by the motor 152 via the gear reducer 158 causes the first link 116A to pivot on the first pivot pin 131 relative to the base member 112. Due to the pivotal movement of the first link 116A, the linkage mechanism 116 moves the movable member 114 and the chain guide 140 relative to the base member 112.

In this embodiment, the motor 152 of the actuation unit 118 is located at least partially farther from the base member 112 than the output member (e.g., output gear 160) of the actuation unit 118. The circuit board 164 of the actuation unit 118 is located at least partially between the output member (e.g., the output gear 160) of the actuation unit 118 and the motor 152 of the actuation unit 118. Here, the output member (e.g., output gear 160) of the actuation unit 118 is located at least partially farther from the actuation unit electrical contact portion 156 than the motor 152 of the actuation unit 118. Further, the output member (e.g., output gear 160) of the actuation unit 118 is located at least partially farther from the movable member 114 than the motor 152 of the actuation unit 118.

The bicycle derailleur 110A also includes a controller 162 configured to control the motor 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 162 is an electronic controller disposed in the actuation unit housing 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 162 is disposed on a circuit board 164 disposed in the actuation unit housing 150. As shown in fig. 17, the circuit board 164 is located at least partially between the output member (e.g., the output gear 160) of the actuation unit 118 and the motor 152 of the actuation unit 118.

The controller 162 is preferably a microcomputer or Central Processing Unit (CPU) that includes at least one processor and memory (i.e., at least one computer storage device). The controller 162 is formed of one or more semiconductor chips mounted on a circuit board 164. The storage device stores a program used by the controller 162. Memory 162B is any computer storage device or any computer-readable medium other than a transitory propagating signal. For example, the memory 162B may be a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory, and may include a ROM (read only memory) device, a RAM (random access memory) device, a hard disk, a flash drive, and the like.

Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the actuation unit 118 also includes a motor circuit disposed on the circuit board 164. The motor circuit calculates the rotation amount of the motor 152 in response to the shift signal, and controls the motor 152 to rotate by the calculated rotation amount.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 18 and 19, the front bicycle derailleur 10B (hereinafter referred to simply as "bicycle derailleur 10B" for the sake of brevity) will now be discussed in more detail. The bicycle derailleur 10B basically includes a base member 212, a movable member 214, a linkage 216, an actuating unit 218 and a power supply 220. The base member 212 is configured to be attached to a frame F of a bicycle B as shown in fig. 1. The movable member 214 is movable relative to the base member 212. Specifically, the linkage 216 movably connects the movable member 214 to the base member 212. The actuation unit 218 is configured to move the movable member 214 relative to the base member 212 in response to a shift operation. The shift operation can be a manual shift operation in which the operating device OD or some other operating device is operated to generate a shift signal that is transmitted to the actuation unit 218 to operate the bicycle derailleur 10B. The shift operation of the bicycle derailleur 10B can also be an automatic shift operation in which a shift signal is generated by the controller based on one or more operating conditions of the bicycle B.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 18 and 19, the actuation unit 218 is provided to the linkage 216, and the power source 220 is provided to the base member 212. Basically, the actuation unit 218 is configured to move the movable member 214 relative to the base member 212. In other words, the actuation unit 218 is operatively connected between the linkage 216 and one of the base member 212 and the movable member 214 to move the movable member 214 relative to the base member 212. The power supply 220 is configured to supply power to the actuation unit 218. The bicycle derailleur 10B also includes a cable 222 that is disposed between the actuation unit 218 and the power supply 220. A cable 222 electrically connects the actuation unit 218 and the power source 220 for providing power from the power source 220 to the actuation unit 218. Preferably, the bicycle derailleur 10B further includes a cable retaining portion 224 that is configured to at least partially retain the cable 222.

As described above, the base member 212 is configured to be mounted to the bicycle frame F. Specifically, the base member 212 includes a frame mounting structure such as a fixing bolt 226 configured to be attached to a bicycle frame F. Thus, when the movable member 214 is moved to shift the bicycle chain CN, the base member 212 is laterally stationary relative to the bicycle frame F. The base member 212 is preferably constructed of a rigid material such as a lightweight metal (e.g., aluminum alloy or fiber reinforced plastic).

In the bicycle derailleur 10B, the linkage mechanism 216 includes a first link 216A and a second link 216B, with the second link 216B at least partially covering the first link 216A when viewed in a direction facing the frame F in a state in which the base member 212 is attached to the frame F of the bicycle B as seen in FIG. 1. The first and second links 216A and 216B allow relative movement of the movable member 214 with respect to the base member 212 when the bicycle derailleur 10B shifts the chain CN in a lateral direction. Here, the actuating unit 218 is provided to the second link 216B. The actuation unit 218 is configured to apply torque between the second link 216B and the base member 212 such that the second link 216B pivots relative to the base member 212 as described below.

The second link 216B is positioned farther from the bicycle center plane CP than the first link 216A in a state in which the bicycle derailleur 10B is mounted to the bicycle frame F. In other words, the first link 216A is located inside the second link 216B with respect to the bicycle center plane CP in a state in which the bicycle derailleur 10B is mounted to the bicycle frame F. On the other hand, the second link 216B is located outside of the first link 216A with respect to the bicycle center plane CP. Thus, here, the first link 216A can be considered an inner link because the first link 216A is closer to the bicycle center plane CP than the second link 216B, and the second link 216B can be considered an outer link because the second link 216B is farther from the bicycle center plane CP than the first link 216A.

The movable member 214 is constructed of a suitable rigid material, such as an aluminum alloy or fiber reinforced plastic. Basically, the movable member 214 is movably disposed relative to the base member 212 to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Here, the movable member 214 includes a chain guide 240. The retracted position of the chain guide 240 corresponds to the chain guide 240 being positioned over the smallest one of the front sprockets FS. The extended position of the chain guide 240 corresponds to the chain guide 240 being positioned over the largest one of the front sprockets FS.

The actuating unit 218 is similar in structure to the actuating unit 18 described above, but is adapted for use with the front bicycle derailleur 10B. Thus, the actuation unit 218 includes an actuation unit housing, a motor, a plurality of gears, and actuation unit electrical contact portions. The actuation unit 218 has an output shaft 252a, the output shaft 252a being operatively connected to the first link 216A by a linkage 260 to pivot the first link 216A relative to the base member 212. In this way, rotation of the output shaft 252a is transferred to the first link 216A such that the movable member 214 moves relative to the base member 212. The linkage 260 constitutes an output member of the actuation unit 218.

Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 20, the front bicycle derailleur 10B has been modified such that the actuating unit 218 is provided to the first (inner) link 216A and the power source 220 is provided to the movable member 214. Here, in this variation, the output shaft 252a of the actuation unit 218 is operatively connected to the second link 216B by a linkage 260 to pivot the second link 216B relative to the base member 212. In this way, rotation of the output shaft 252a is transferred to the second link 216B such that the movable member 214 moves relative to the base member 212.

Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 21, the front bicycle derailleur 10B has been modified such that the actuation unit 218 and the power supply 220 are provided to the movable member 214. Here, in this variation, the output shaft 252a of the actuation unit 218 is operatively connected to the first link 216A by a linkage 260 to pivot the first link 216A relative to the base member 212. In this way, rotation of the output shaft 252a is transferred to the first link 216A such that the movable member 214 moves relative to the base member 212.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "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. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, "including", "having" and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "portion," "section," "portion," "member" or "element" when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

In this application, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "vertical" and "transverse" as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright riding position and equipped with a bicycle derailleur. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe the bicycle derailleur should be interpreted relative to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal plane and equipped with the bicycle derailleur. The terms "left" and "right" are used to refer to "right" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle as referenced from the right side, and "left" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle as referenced from the left side.

The phrase "at least one of … …" as used in this disclosure means "one or more of the desired choices". For example, if the number of choices is two, at least one of the phrases "… …" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "two of two choices". As another example, if the number of choices is equal to or greater than three, at least one of the phrases "… …" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "any combination of two or more choices". Furthermore, the term "and/or" as used in this disclosure means "one or both of.

Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. Thus, for example, a first element discussed above could be termed a second element, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

The term "attached to" or "attached" as used herein includes the following configurations: directly securing an element to another element by adhering the element directly to the other element; indirectly securing an element to another element by adhering the element to the intermediate member which in turn is adhered to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is essentially a portion of another element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, such as "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "adhered," "affixed," and derivatives thereof. Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a modified amount of deviation of the term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless specifically indicated otherwise, the size, shape, position or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and/or desired, provided that such changes do not materially affect the intended function thereof. Unless specifically stated otherwise, components shown as directly connected or contacting each other may have intermediate structures disposed therebetween, so long as such changes do not materially affect the intended function thereof. The functions of one element may be performed by two, and vice versa, unless otherwise specified. The structures and functions of one embodiment may be employed in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature, alone or in combination with other features, unique to the present technology, should also be considered a separate description of the further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Accordingly, the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention is provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Reference numerals

10A first bicycle derailleur

10B second bicycle derailleur

12. Base component

14. Movable member

16. Link mechanism

16A first link

16B second link

16B1 first arm

16B2 second arm

18. Actuation unit

20. Power supply

20A power supply shell

20A1 Power supply Electrical Port

20B cell

20C power supply electrical contact portion

22. Cable with improved cable characteristics

22A first cable contact portion

22B second cable contact portion

24. Cable holding part

26. Fixing bolt

30. Adjusting component

31. First pivot pin

32. Second pivot pin

33 third pivot pin

34. Fourth pivot pin

40. Chain guide

42. Shaft

44. Chain holding plate pair

46. Tensioning pulley

48. Guide pulley

50. Actuation unit housing

50A actuation unit electrical port

52. Motor with a motor housing

52a output shaft

54. Multiple gears

56. Actuating unit electrical contact portion

58. Gear reducer

60. Output gear

62. Controller for controlling a power supply

62A processor

62B memory

64. Circuit board

66. Motor circuit

68. Electric connection part

70. First wireless communicator

72. Second wireless communicator

74. Acceleration sensor

76. Acceleration sensor

110A rear bicycle derailleur/bicycle derailleur

112. Base component

114. Movable member

115. Biasing member

116. Link mechanism

116A first link

116A1 first arm

116A2 second arm

116B second link

118. Actuation unit

120. Power supply

120B battery unit

120C power supply electrical contact portion

122. Cable with improved cable characteristics

122A first cable contact portion

122B second cable contact portion

124. Cable holding part

126. Fixing bolt

130. Adjusting component

131. First pivot pin

132. Second pivot pin

133. Third pivot pin

134. Fourth pivot pin

140. Chain guide

142. Shaft

144. Chain holding plate pair

146. Tensioning pulley

148. Guide pulley

150. Actuation unit housing

152. Motor with a motor housing

152a output shaft

154. Multiple gears

156. Actuating unit electrical contact portion

158. Gear reducer

160. Output gear

162. Controller for controlling a power supply

164. Circuit board

212. Base component

214. Movable member

216. Link mechanism

216A first link

216B second link

218. Actuation unit

220. Power supply

222. Cable with improved cable characteristics

224. Cable holding part

226. Fixing bolt

240. Chain guide

252a output shaft

260. Link mechanism

A1 First pivot axis

A2 Second pivot axis

A3 Third pivot axis

A4 Fourth pivot axis

B bicycle

BT power supply

C crank

CA1 crankshaft

CA2 crank arm pair

CN chain

CP bicycle center plane

DT drive train

DU drive unit

EC additional cable

ECU main controller

F bicycle frame

FB front frame main body

FF front fork

FS multiple front sprocket

FW front wheel

H handle bar

MU motor unit

OD operating device

P1 pivot axis/first pivot axis (B axis)

P2 chain guide pivot axis/second pivot axis (P axis)

PD footboard

RB rear frame body/swing arm

RL reference line

RS multiple rear chain wheels

RW rear wheel

S-shaped bicycle seat

SA1 first partition

SA2 second partition

SP adjustable seat rod

WC wireless communicator

Claims

1. A bicycle derailleur, comprising:

a base member configured to be attached to a frame of a bicycle;

a movable member movable relative to the base member;

a link mechanism movably connecting the movable member to the base member, the link mechanism including a first link and a second link that at least partially covers the first link and is configured to face the base member when viewed in a direction facing the frame of the bicycle in a state in which the base member is attached to the frame of the bicycle;

an actuation unit configured to move the movable member relative to the base member, the actuation unit being provided to the second link; and

A power source configured to supply electric power to the actuation unit, the power source being provided to the base member.

2. A bicycle derailleur, comprising:

a base member configured to be attached to a frame of a bicycle;

a movable member movable relative to the base member;

an actuation unit configured to move the movable member relative to the base member, the actuation unit being provided to one of the movable member and the first link; and

a power source configured to supply electric power to the actuation unit, the power source being provided to the movable member.

3. The bicycle derailleur according to claim 2, wherein

The actuation unit is provided to the first link.

4. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-3, further comprising:

a cable disposed between the actuation unit and the power source.

5. The bicycle derailleur according to claim 4, wherein

The cable electrically connects the actuation unit and the power source for supplying power from the power source to the actuation unit.

6. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-5, further comprising:

a cable retention portion configured to at least partially retain the cable.

7. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein

The actuation unit comprises an actuation unit housing, a motor, a plurality of gears and actuation unit electrical contact portions,

the power supply includes a power supply housing having a battery cell and a power supply electrical contact portion, an

The cable includes a first cable contact portion connected to the actuation unit electrical contact portion and a second cable contact portion connected to the power supply electrical contact portion.

8. The bicycle derailleur according to claim 2, wherein

The actuation unit is provided to the movable member.

9. The bicycle derailleur according to claim 8, wherein

The power supply is disposed farther from the link mechanism than the actuation unit.

10. The bicycle derailleur according to claim 9, wherein

The actuation unit electrical contact portion and the power supply electrical contact portion are electrically connected to each other.

11. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-10, further comprising:

a first wireless communicator for communicating with a bicycle component; and

a second wireless communicator for communicating with at least one of a smartphone, a personal computer, a tablet device, and a cycle computer.

12. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein

The actuation unit electrical contact portion is connectable with an additional cable that is electrically connected to an additional power source disposed at a different location than the derailleur.

13. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-12, further comprising:

A controller configured to control the motor, wherein

The controller functions as a slave controller relative to a master controller that is located remotely from the bicycle derailleur.

14. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-13, further comprising:

an acceleration sensor located in the actuation unit.

15. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-13, further comprising:

and an acceleration sensor located outside the actuation unit.

16. The bicycle derailleur according to any one of claims 1-15, further comprising:

an electrical connection portion configured to be coupled with a charging cable for charging the power source.