CZ390399A3 - Bicycle pedal with mechanism for adjusting gap - Google Patents

Abstract

Bicycle pedal (10) for shoe clamping (12) by means of a clip (14) and has a pedal body (22), which is pivotally connected to the second end of the pedal shaft (20) for the purpose of supporting the footpath. Pedal body (22) has a pair of pivotally mounted clamping components (24). Between the pedal body (22) and each of the clamping components (24) a spring member (28) is attached. The pedal further includes the adjusting mechanism (30), cursed to cooperate with each by the clamping member (24) and changing the efficiency level of the spring force respective spring members (28). For each of the clamping components (24) a cover (80) is connected which substantially resists the spring components (28) located between the clamping members (24) and kyty (80). The pedal further comprises a mechanism (32) for adjusting the gap, adjusting the range between the sole (18) of the shoe (12) and the upper support surface the pedal body (22). Each of the clamping components (24) is the front surface (64) for engaging the clip (14) is to retain the clip (14) above the upper support surface the pedal body (22).

Description

The present invention is generally directed to a bicycle pedal. More particularly, the present invention relates to a clipless bicycle pedal with a gap adjustment mechanism controlling or limiting the extent of play or wobbling of the clamped shoe clip relative to the bicycle pedal.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In recent years, the design of bicycle pedals has focused on specific uses such as recreational, off-road, road racing cycling and the like. One particular type of bicycle pedal that is becoming more and more popular is a stepping or clipless pedal that releasably grips a clip formed on the sole of a cyclist's shoe. The clipless pedal has a pedal spindle that can be mounted on a bicycle crank, a pedal body rotatably mounted on said pedal spindle, and a clamping mechanism for clamping said clip. In the case of a bicycle intended for off-road driving, the projection clamping mechanism has front and rear clamp components for clamping the shoe that are attached to both sides of the pedal body to attach the front and rear of said clamp. In the case of road racing bicycle pedals, it is typical that the clip clamping mechanism is located on only one side of the pedal body. In any case, it can be concluded that when using this type of bicycle pedal, the rider treads on the pedal and the clip fastening mechanism automatically grips the clip that is formed on the bottom of the cyclist's shoe.

More specifically, when the rider's shoe is attached to the tread pedal by the clamp, the rider guides the shoe downward and forward relative to the pedal body such that the front end of the clamp engages the front recess or the pedal clamping member. bodies. After the front end of the clamp

4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 · 4 . In this position, the cyclist pushes the shoe down against the pedal to cause an initial rotation of the rear hinge or clamping member rearwardly against the spring force, thereby moving the rear hinge or clamping member to the shoe clip release position. As a result, the rear end of the clamping clip is now in a position facing the rear of the rear insert or clamping member. Then, the rear hinge or clamping member returns under the force of the spring component or spring and attaches to the rear end of the shoe clip. This connection fixes the rider's shoe to the pedal by means of a clamp.

When releasing the shoe from the pedal, the rider typically rotates the shoe about an axis perpendicular to or approximately perpendicular to the pedal pedal surface, using the front end of the clamped clip as a pivot point. As a result of this pivoting operation, the rear snapping or clamping member is rotated backward against the force of the spring to the position of release of the clip and the final release of the shoe.

When stepping pedals are used on road bicycles, this pedal is typically characterized by having only one clamping assembly, so that the rider shoe can only attach to one of the two sides of the pedal. On the other hand, bicycle types such as off-road and mountain bikes usually have a pair of clamping assemblies so that the rider's shoe can be clamped on either side of the pedal. In any case, it is desirable to provide a pedal design that is compact and as light as possible.

One problem that concerns most clipless pedals is that they are quite small, so that only a small portion of the pedal body is in contact with the rider's shoe. Specifically, the pedal body has a tread surface located on both sides of the shoe fastening mechanism. This tread surface has only a small area because the pedal body is typically manufactured in as small a size as possible so that their weight is small. When using this type of clipless pedals, the rider's shoe is in a state of permanent engagement with the pedal when the shoe clip is clamped in the clip clamping mechanism so that the pedal force can be effectively transmitted to the pedals. As a result, clipless pedals are widely used on road and mountain bikes for racing purposes.

For this type of clipless pedals, it should be taken into account that if there is free space in the pedal to the right and left near the shoe clamp components, then the rider's foot will swing to the right and left, causing the pedal force the rider will not be · · · <<· · · · ·

-3 Effective transmission to the pedal. Therefore, any free space to the right or left between the shoe and the pedal should be reduced to a minimum by forming an ankle portion on the boly sole to the right and left of the shoe clamp where the sole contacts the tread surface formed on the pedal body.

The structure used hitherto, as described above, fully envisages bringing the rubber portion of the shoe sole into contact with a tread surface having a small area to suppress release to the right and left. Since the parts of the shoe sole that come into contact with the tread surface are the same parts that come into contact with the ground while cycling, there is a tendency to wear and if the sole actually wears out, the tread surface and shoe sole do not get into contact evenly, which makes it difficult to suppress existing gaps between the shoe and the pedal.

Downhill bike races, parallel slalom races, cyclo-cross races, and other off-road mountain bike and BMX (motocross-like cycling) races have grown considerably in recent years. Unlike road cycling, in this type of off-road cycling, riders move their bicycles along an unpaved track. In addition, in this type of off-road racing, the foot must be repeatedly released from the pedal when cornering and returning to the pedal as the corner turns. Since such races are run on unpaved tracks, mud adheres to the pedals, and there is a tendency for the clamp components to clog. If the clip fastening components become clogged with mud, the projection cannot come into contact with the clip fastening components and the shoe cannot attach to the pedal. Mud often clogs the spring mechanism and, as a result, the clamping parts cannot function properly.

Accordingly, there is a need for a bicycle pedal that overcomes the aforementioned problems in the art. In this sense, there is a need to develop a bicycle clip pedal that reduces twist. In addition, there is a need to develop a bicycle pedal that can accommodate different types of bicycle shoe soles. The present invention addresses these needs in the art together with other needs that will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this patent specification.

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4. Summary of the Invention

A first aspect of the present invention is directed to a bicycle pedal assembly according to claim 1. A second aspect of the present invention is directed to a bicycle pedal assembly according to claim 22.

A preferred embodiment provides such a bicycle pedal assembly for clamping a rider shoe clip comprising a pedal shaft having a first end for attachment to a bicycle crank, a second end for supporting a rider's foot and a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between said first and second ends; a pedal body pivotally mounted to a second end of the pedal shaft, the pedal body having a first end, a second end, an inner side portion extending between the first and second ends and from which the pedal shaft extends outwardly, and an outer side portion extending between the first and the other end; a first gripping member coupled to a first end of the pedal body, the first gripping member having a first clip engaging surface; a second clamping member connected to a second end of the pedal body, the second clamping member having a second clip engaging surface; a first sole contact surface which is removably attached to the inside of the pedal body and is disposed on the longitudinal axis of rotation; and a second sole contact surface which is removably attached to the outside of the pedal body and is disposed on the longitudinal axis of rotation.

Another preferred embodiment provides such a bicycle pedal assembly for clamping a boly rider clip comprising a pedal shaft having a first end for attachment to a bicycle crank, a second end for supporting the rider's foot and a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between said first and second ends; a pedal body pivotally mounted to a second end of the pedal shaft, the pedal body having a first end, a second end, an inner side extending between the first and second ends and an outer side extending between the first and second ends, a first side for receiving the clip facing the first direction and the second side for positioning the clip facing in a second direction opposite to the first direction; a first clamping member coupled to a first end of the pedal body, wherein the first clamping member has a first front surface for attaching the clamp and a first rear surface for attaching the clamp; a second clamping member connected to a second end of the pedal body, wherein the second clamping member has a second front surface for attaching the clamp and has a second clamping member;

-5 · zadní · φ zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní zadní · rear surface for attaching the clamp; a first sole contact surface which is removably attached to the inside of the pedal body and is disposed on the longitudinal axis of rotation; and a second sole contact surface which is removably attached to the outside of the pedal body and is disposed on the longitudinal axis of rotation.

Yet another preferred embodiment provides such a bicycle pedal assembly for clamping a rider shoe comprising a pedal shaft having a first end for attachment to a bicycle crank, a second end for supporting the rider's foot and a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between said first and second ends; a pedal body pivotally mounted to a second end of the pedal shaft, the pedal body having a first end, a second end, an inner side extending between the first and second ends and an outer side extending between the first and second ends; a first gripping member coupled to a first end of the pedal body, the first gripping member having a first gripping surface; a second clamping member connected to a second end of the pedal body, the second clamping member having a second clip engaging surface; a first sole contact surface removably attached to the inner side of the pedal body and positioned on the longitudinal axis of rotation; and a second sole contact surface which is removably attached to the outer side of the pedal body and is positioned adjacent the outer side of the body portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS These and other features, complaints, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following technical description, which includes details of preferred embodiments of the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is an outer side view of a cycling shoe secured to a right clipless bicycle pedal by clamping a cycling shoe clip according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is an outer side view of the right bicycle pedal shown in Fig. 1 and assembled in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein this side view of the right bicycle pedal shows attachment of a portion of a bicycle shoe clip to said pedal;

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-6def. 3 is an internal side view of the right bicycle pedal shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 and constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a plan view of a left bicycle pedal similar to the right bicycle pedal illustrated in Fig. 1 and constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the left bicycle pedal of Fig. 4 taken along line 5-5 of Fig. 4 taken along the longitudinal direction of the bicycle, the attached shoe clip being shown in broken lines;

Fig. 6 is an outer side view of the bicycle pedal body shown in Figs. 4 and 5; Fig. 7 is an internal side view of the pedal body shown in Figs. 5 and 6 and contained in the pedal shown in Fig. 4;

Fig. 8 is a plan view of the pedal body shown in Figs. 5 to 7 and contained in the pedal shown in Fig. 4;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the pedal body shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 and contained in the pedal shown in FIG. 4, taken along line 9-9 of FIG. the direction of the bicycle;

Fig. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the same pedal body as shown in Figs. 5 to 7 and contained in the pedal shown in Fig. 4, taken along a straight line;

-10 shown in FIG. 8 and taken transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bicycle;

Fig. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of the same pedal body as shown in Figs. 5 to 7 and contained in the pedal shown in Fig. 4, taken along a straight line;

11 shown in FIG. 8 and taken transversely with respect to the longitudinal direction of the bicycle;

Fig. 12 is a side view of one of the clamping components of the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 13 is a right side elevational view of the clamping member shown in Fig. 12 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 14 is a left side elevational view of the clamping member shown in Figs. 12 and 13 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 15 is a plan view of the clamping member shown in Figs. 12 to 14 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 16 is a bottom view of the fastener shown in Figs. 12 to 15 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

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-7pict. Fig. 17 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the same clamping member as shown in Figs. 12 to 16 and contained in the pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5, this cross-section taken along line 17-17 in Fig. 15;

Fig. 18 is a side view of one of the housing components of the bicycle pedal tension adjusting mechanism illustrated in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 19 is a right side elevational view of the cover member of the tension adjusting mechanism illustrated in Fig. 18 and included in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 20 is a left side elevational view of the cover portion of the tension adjusting mechanism illustrated in Figs. 18 and 19 and included in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 21 is a plan view of the cover member shown in Figs. 18 to 20 and included in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 22 is a bottom plan view of the cover member shown in Figs. 18 to 21 and included in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 23 is a front elevational view of the first gap adjustment component or sole contact component of the gap adjustment mechanism incorporated in the bicycle pedal body shown in Figures 1 to 5;

Fig. 24 is a side elevational view of the first gap adjusting or sole contacting component shown in Fig. 23 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 25 is an end elevational view of the second gap adjusting or sole contact component of the gap adjusting mechanism incorporated in the bicycle pedal body shown in Figures 1 to 5;

Fig. 26 is a side elevational view of the second gap adjusting or sole contacting component shown in Fig. 25 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

Fig. 27 is a plan view of the second gap adjusting or sole contact component shown in Figs. 25 and 26 and contained in the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5;

-8fig. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the second gap adjusting or sole contacting component shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, taken along line 28-28 of FIG. 27.

Fig. 29 is a plan view of the clip that cooperates with the bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 1 to 5 and Figs. 35 to 40;

Fig. 30 is a bottom plan view of the clip shown in Fig. 29 for use in connection with the bicycle pedal illustrated in Figs. 1 to 5 and Figs. 35 to 40;

Fig. 31 is a pictorial view of the clip shown in Figs. 29 and 30 for use with the bicycle pedal illustrated in Figs. 1 to 5 and Figs. 35 to 40;

Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the clip shown in Figs. 29 to 31 for use in conjunction with the bicycle pedal illustrated in Figs. 1 to 5 and Figs. 35 to 40 taken in cross-section; according to line 32-32 of FIG. 29;

Fig. 33 is a right side view of the end of the clip shown in Figs. 29 to 32 for use with the bicycle pedal of Figs. 1 to 5 and Figs. 35 to 40;

Fig. 34 is a left side view of the end of the clip shown in Figs. 29 to 33 for use with the bicycle pedal illustrated in Figs. 1 to 5 and Figs. 35 to 40;

Fig. 35 is a plan view of a left pedal that is illustrated in accordance with a modified embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 36 is an external side view of the left bicycle pedal of Fig. 35 in accordance with a modified embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 37 is an internal side elevational view of the left bicycle pedal of Figs. 35 and 36 in accordance with a modified embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 38 is a cross-sectional view of the left bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 35 to 37 taken in a longitudinal direction along the line 38-38 shown in Fig. 35, the clamping members and adjusting screws being shown in side view;

Fig. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the left bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 35 to 38 taken along the line 39-39 of Fig. 35; and Fig. 40 is a cross-sectional view of the left bicycle pedal shown in Figs. 35 to 38 taken in the transverse direction along line 40-40 of Fig. 37, where certain portions are removed to show the pedal body.

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to Figures 1 to 4, a bicycle pedal 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown in these figures. The bicycle pedal 10 is a clip-on or step-down clamping pedal that can be used with a cycling shoe 12 having a clip 14 formed thereon. The bicycle pedal 10 is particularly designed for off-road use, as opposed to road bicycles. It goes without saying that the bicycle pedal 10 can be used on a road bicycle or any type of bicycle if there is such a need or requirement. It can be seen in Figure 1 that the bicycle pedal 10 is permanently attached to the arm of the bicycle crank 16 with which it rotates together, while the clip 14 is firmly attached to the bottom of the sole 18 of the shoe 12.

The bicycle pedal 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3 is a right-hand pedal, while the bicycle pedal 10 shown in Figures 4 and 5 is a left-hand pedal. It is understood that there are the same pedals on the right and left sides of the bicycle, with the only exception that the left-hand pedal 10 is a mirror image of the right-hand pedal 10.

2 to 4, the bicycle pedal 10 substantially comprises a pedal shaft or spindle 20 adapted to be coupled to the crank arm 16 and a pedal body 22 rotatably coupled to the spindle 20 to form Opera for the rider's foot. The pedal body 22 substantially comprises first and second clamping members 24, each of the two clamping members 24 being rotatably coupled to the pedal body 22 by means of pivot pins 26, a pair of spring members 28, and a pair of tension adjusting mechanisms 30. Each clamping member 24, together with its respective pivot pins 26, spring member 28, and tension adjusting mechanism 30, forms a front clip clamping mechanism on one side of the pedal body 22 and a rear clip clamping mechanism on the opposite side of the body 22.

1 and 4, the gap adjusting mechanism 32 is coupled to the pedal body 22 to control or limit the amount of play or wobble of the shoe 12 relative to the bicycle pedal 10. In other words, the design of the gap adjustment mechanism 32 makes it possible to vary the extent of the gap or space between the sole 18 of the shoe 12 and the pedal 10 of the bicycle. A more detailed description of the gap adjusting mechanism 32 will be made below.

The clip 14 is designed to releasably attach the sole 18 of the shoe 12 to the bicycle pedal 10 based on the operation of the first and second clamping members 24. This type of pedal is often referred to as a stepping or clamping pedal. Specifically, the clip 14 attaches to the pedal 10 by pushing the clip 14 into the pedal 10 as a result of forward and downward movement. This action releasably attaches the clip 14 to the pedal 10. The clip 14 may be released from the pedal 10 by twisting the heel portion of the shoe outwardly relative to the pedal 10, as described in more detail below.

It can be seen in Fig. 1 that the pedal spindle 20 is attached to the bicycle handle 16 so that the pedal body 22 can rotate relative to the pedal spindle 20 and provide support for the rider's foot. In particular, the clip 14 is permanently attached to the shoe 12, which is releasably connected to the pedal body 22 by the clip 12 by means of one of the clamping members 24.

The pedal spindle 20 is a multistage spindle having a plurality of stepped portions and which enters a stepped bore 31 (see Figure 9) formed in the pedal body.

The pedal spindle 20 has a first end 33 on which threads are formed for screwedly connecting the pedal 10 to the crank 16 in a manner known per se. The other end of the pedal spindle 20 rotatably supports the pedal body 22 in a manner known per se. The pedal body 22 can rotate freely about the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal spindle 20. Since the pedal spindle 20 is a relatively common part and its design is not essential to the present invention, the construction of the pedal spindle will not be described in detail.

In Figures 4 to 11, it is shown that the pedal body 22 has both a central tubular portion 36 for receiving the pedal spindle 20 and for rotating the pedal body 22 about the central longitudinal axis A and a pair of side portions 38 supporting the clamping members 24. is preferably made of a lightweight material such as an aluminum alloy. One end of the pedal body 22 is provided with one of the clamping members 24. In particular, the pedal body 22 is a generally "II" part (see Figs. 8 and 9). The pedal body 22 has, on the one hand, a front or first end with one of the clamping members 24 which is pivotally attached to this end by one of the pivot pins 26 and, on the other hand, a rear or other end with a rear clamping member 24 pivot pin 26.

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The side portions 38 extend back and forth from the central tubular portion 36 and are disposed on opposite sides of the clamping members 24. At each end of the side portions 38, openings 40 are provided to permanently position the pivot pins 26 on which they are pivotally mounted. The side portion 38, which is located on the outside of the pedal body 22, has a threaded attachment hole 42 in both the upper and lower surfaces (see FIGS. 8 and 9). The attachment holes 42 are intended to attach a portion of the gap adjusting mechanism 32, which will be described in more detail below. A side portion 38 located on the inside of the pedal body 22 is followed by a section of the tubular portion 36 that extends outwardly.

In Figures 3 and 4, it is best seen that the pedal body 22 is rotatably mounted on the pedal shaft 20 for rotation about the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 20. The pedal body 22 has a central longitudinal axis B that extends between the front and rear 2 to 4. The central longitudinal axis B of the pedal body 22 extends substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 20. On each side of the pedal body 22 an inlet and clamping area is provided. fasteners 14 shoes. More specifically, the clip entry area is defined between the clamping members 24.

The clamping members 24 control the cycling shoe 12 as desired by attaching the sole of the cycling shoe 12 to the pedal 10. The clamping members 24 are pivotally mounted on pivot pins 26 at opposite ends of the pedal body 22- The clamping members 24 are curved in a U-like shape wherein both ends of each member 24 are pivotally suspended on pivot pins 26 (see Figs. 4 and 5) that extend between the side portions 38 of the pedal body 22. Each spring member 28 is preferably a pair of torsion springs. The torsion spring coil portions of the resilient member 28 are disposed on the pivot pins 26 such that one end of each spring contacts a portion of the pedal body 22 and the other end of each spring contacts a portion of the tension adjusting mechanism 30. This operation of the springs will be described in more detail below. The spring members 28 normally force the clamping members 24 to rotate about respective pivot pins 26 directed from their released positions in which the clip 14 is released, to their positions where the clip 14 is attached or clamped. In other words, it can be expressed that the spring member 28 normally holds the clamping member 24 in the positions: · · · ♦ · φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ

-12ν in which the clip 14 is clamped under the conditions of use. The clamping hold forces exerted by the spring members 28 relative to the clamping members 24 are adjusted by the operation of the tension adjusting mechanism 30.

Referring now to Figures 12 to 17, it will be appreciated that each of the clamping members 24 comprises a coupling portion 50 having a pair of legs 52 that extend downwardly from the coupling portion 50 and serves to attach the clamping member 24 to the pedal More specifically, in each of the legs 52 of the rear clamping members 24, a connection hole 54 is provided for receiving a housing (not shown) into which the pivoting pin 26 further rotates. rotate the member 24 about the respective pivot pin 26 as it moves between the clamping position of the clip and the clip release position. Each of the legs 52 also has a stop portion or a flange 58 that contacts the pedal body 22 to define the extent of rotational movement of the clamping member 24 in cooperation with the spring member 28.

Each of the clamping members 24 is a front clamp clamping portion 60 and a rear clamp clamping portion 62. The clip fastener portion 60 protrudes from one side of the connector portion 50, while the clip fastener portion 62 protrudes from the other side of the connector portion 50. The clip fastener portion 60 grips the clip front portion 14, while the clip fastener portion 62 grips the rear bracket section. part of clip 14 cycling shoes. The clip front portion 60 of each of the clamping members 24 has a first clip contact surface 64 that is oriented in a first direction and a second clip contact surface 66 that is oriented in a second direction that is substantially opposed to the first direction.

The first clip-engaging surface 64 is formed by an elevated central flange 67 having a curved, snap-engaging surface 68 for the clip 14 of the cycling shoe 12 that restricts the longitudinal movement of the clip 14 relative to the pedal body 22. The curved, abutment surface 68 extends substantially perpendicular to the first clip engaging surface 64. The second clip-engaging surface 66 is formed by a pair of side flanges or sections 69 located on opposite sides of the raised central flange 67. In other words, the second clip-engaging surface 66 has two sections which are spaced apart spaced apart, wherein the first clip-engaging surface 64 is located between sections spaced apart from one another by side flanges or sections 69 of the second clip-engaging surface 66. Accordingly, a gap is formed between the tubular portion 36 of the pedal

-13 ° body 22 and first surface 64 for engaging the clip. In other words, the side flanges or sections 69 of the second clip-engaging surface 66 are closer to the tubular portion 36 of the pedal body 22 than the first clip-engaging surface 64.

It is preferred that the first clip-engaging surface 64 and the second clip-engaging surface 66 lie substantially in the same plane, but face each other in opposite directions. More specifically, the first clip-engaging surface 64 faces downwardly from the sole 18 of the shoe 12, while the second clip-engaging surface 66 faces the sole 18 of the shoe 12. In this sense, the first clip-engaging surface 64 and the second surface 66 12 and 17, it is best seen that the rear clip clamping portion 62 has a downwardly facing clip contact surface 70 that extends substantially in the same direction as the clamp contact portion. a first clamp engagement surface 64 of the front clamp clamping portion 60 of the opposite clamping member 24. The clamp clamping portion 14 also has a curved stop surface 72 that limits the longitudinal movement of the clamp 14 relative to the pedal body as it will be explained below. The curved stop surface 72 extends substantially perpendicular to the clip engaging surface 70.

The pedal 10 will now be briefly described with reference to Figs. 1, 2 and 5. When the bicycle shoe 12 is treaded in the pedal 10, the toe of the shoe moves forward toward one of the front clip fastening portions 60 to the tab of the clip 14 has been inserted into one of the clip clamping members 24 (see FIG. 2).

Upon insertion of the tab 14 into one of the tab fastening members 24 of the clip fastening portion 60, a force is exerted on the heel side of the shoe 12 so as to press the shoe down toward the pedal 10. When the heel is further down In this state, the rear end of the clip 14 rotates the rear clip clamping portion 62 backward against the spring force of the springs 28. Then, the clip 14 slides between the two clip clamping portions 60 and 62. After the clip 14 has slid between the two clip clamping portions 60 and 62, the rear clip clamping portion 62 is pushed back into its original position by the action of the springs 28. The pivoting of the clip retaining portions 62 is stopped by a stop spring 58 which contacts the side portions 38 of the pedal body 22. As a result, the clip 14 engages between the clip retaining portions 60 and 62 of the clip retaining member 24 of the cycling shoe. see Fig. 1 and Fig. 5).

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As the shoe 12 is released from the pedal 10, the heel portion of the shoe 12 slightly rotates outwardly. This rotation causes a pivoting movement of the clip retaining portion 62 against the spring force of the springs 28, resulting in complete release of the rear end of the clip 14 of the cycling shoe 12.

Referring to FIG. 5, each of the tension adjusting mechanisms 30 preferably includes an adjusting screw 74 and an adjusting nut 76. The adjusting screw 74 rotatably enters an aperture 90 formed in the clamping member 24. Additionally, a adjusting nut 74 is screwed onto the adjusting screw 74. Accordingly, rotating the adjusting screw 74 causes the adjusting nut 76 to move axially along the shaft of the adjusting screw 74. Turning the adjusting screw 74 clockwise advantageously increases the resilient spring force. of the fastener or springs 28 relative to the fastener 24, while rotating the adjusting screw 74 counterclockwise advantageously reduces the resilient efficiency of the spring member or springs 28 relative to the fastener fastener 24. The guide tab of the adjusting nut 76 is located in a slot formed in the clip clamping member 24. It appears advantageous that the adjusting nut 76 is visible through a slot in the clip fastening member 24, so that it serves as a tension indicator to the user in determining the level of compressive spring force of the spring member 28 relative to the clip fastening member 24. This allows the user to easily adjust the pair of bicycle pedals 10 so that both pedals have the same level of spring efficiency.

Referring now to Figures 5 and 18 to 22, it will be appreciated that the cover members 80 are designed to protect the spring members 28 and the tension adjusting mechanisms 30 from mud and / or other contaminants and to prevent prior to failure of the tension adjusting mechanisms 30 and / or clip fastening components 24 due to fouling. Each housing member 80 is preferably made of a light weight material such as a plastic material. The cover members 80 are made to accurately follow the shape of the clip fastening members 24 and cover the pivot pins 26 and spring members.

Specifically, the ends of each cover member 80 are in contact with the legs 52 of the respective clip fastening member 24, and the sides of each cover member 80 contact the respective front and rear clip fastening portions 60 and 62, respectively. Thus, the spring members 28 and the tension adjusting mechanisms 30 are enclosed between the stem members 80 and the clip retaining members 24.

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Preferably, each housing member 80 is spaced from the tubular portion 36 of the pedal body 22 so that mud and / or other debris can pass between said portions.

Each cover member 80 has a through hole 81 for the entrance and passage of one of the pivot pins 26 and one of the spring members 28. Each cover member 80 has a second transverse bore 82 for the entrance and passage of the adjusting screw 74. to the clip fastening parts 24 by means of pivot pins 26 and adjusting screws 74. The design of the cover parts 80 allows them to move along with the respective clip fastening parts 24 of the cycling shoe.

The rear face of each cover member 80 has a rectangular aperture 83 through which the adjusting nut 76 enters. Thus, the adjusting nut 76 is supported on the adjusting screw 74 within the cover member 80. The front face of each cover member 80 has a pair of notches 84 that are formed to one end of the springs 28 could protrude from the housing member and be in contact with the tubular portion 36 of the pedal body 22. The other ends of the springs 28 are located within the housing member 80 and are in contact with the adjusting nut 76.

The gap adjusting mechanism 32 is preferably positioned relative to the longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 20 such that the gap adjusting mechanism 32 at least partially crosses the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 20 to form a support for the sole 18 of the shoe 12. Mechanism 32 the gap adjusting means is located on the outside of the clip positioning area of the cycling shoe such that the clip 14 does not come into contact with the gap adjusting mechanism 32. The gap adjustment mechanism 32 touches the sole 18 of the shoe 12, thereby preventing or restricting any movement between the pedal body 22 and the clip 14 of the cycling shoe.

The gap adjusting mechanism 32 preferably comprises a first gap adjusting member 90 and a second gap adjusting component 92, and these components 90 and 92 may be replaced by other adjusters with components having different sizes for varying the gap between the sole 18 and the pedal body 22. In other words this can be expressed in that the adjustment of the gap between the clip 14 and the clip location area of the pedal body 22 can be adjusted by replacing the adjusting parts 90 and / or 92 having different sizes. In addition, even in the case of the gap adjustment mechanism 32 described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that become familiar with this description that it will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

- that the adjusting parts 90 and 92 can be replaced by new adjusting parts due to wear, or it can be replaced as needed, and / or or a requirement related to different sizes or shapes of both the adjusting member 90 and the adjusting member 92.

In Figures 4, 23 and 24, it can be seen that the first adjusting member 90 is in the form of an incised tubular member made of a low weight flexible material such as plastic. The longitudinal incision of the first adjusting member 90 allows it to be elastically deformed, thereby making it possible to position the adjusting components of different sizes on the tubular portion 36 that surrounds the pedal shaft 20. In other words, the tubular adjusting member 90 is made of a rigid material with with the necessary flexibility to allow for partial opening or unfolding of the adjusting member 90, which can be detached from the pedal shaft 20 and vice versa to the pedal shaft 20. Specifically, this means that different sizes of adjusting members 90 will have the same inner diameter but different outer projections due to changes in the thickness of the tube wall. These variations in the outer diameter of the first adjusting member 90 directly affect the extent of the gap between the inner portion of the sole 18 of the shoe 12 and the upper surface of the pedal body 22. Depending on whether the rider requires a smaller extent of rocking of the shoe 12 relative to the pedal body 22 larger diameter.

The outer surface of the adjusting member 90 forms a surface for contact with the sole 18 of the shoe 12. Thus, the first surface of the adjusting member 90 intended to come into contact with the sole can be interchangeably attached to the inner section of the side portion of the pedal body 22 and positioned on the longitudinal axis of rotation A to form abutments for sole 18 above tubular portion 36.

In Figures 2, 4 and 25 to 28 it can be seen that the second adjusting member 92 is preferably U-shaped and is made of a rigid material such as steel. The second adjusting member 92 is attached to the pedal body 22 by a pair of fasteners or screws 94 that are screwed into the holes 42 in the pedal body 22. By attaching the adjusting component 92 by the fasteners or screws 94, it is immovable relative to the pedal body 22 . The longitudinal axes of the bolts 94 extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 20. Accordingly, based on the specific need and / or requirement, the adjusting member 92 can be easily replaced by another adjusting member 92 of different size.

The adjusting member 92 comprises a pair of parallel components or sole pads 96 having apertures 97 formed therein and an intermediate member 98 that interconnects the sole pads 96 to each other. By varying the thickness of these pads, the rider can adjust the gap between the pedal body 22 and the sole 18 of the shoe 12. Specifically, the usable adjusting members 92 could be the same except for different dimensions of the pads 96 thickness. counter-facing soles that interchangeably attach to the outer portion of the side portion of the pedal body 22. The soles are substantially planar surfaces that are at least partially positioned along said longitudinal axis of rotation A to provide support for the sole 18 above the tubular portion 36.

Referring now to Figures 29 to 34, it will be appreciated that the base portions of the bicycle shoe clip 14 include a fastening portion 100, a first attachment portion or component 102 protruding from one end of the attachment portion 100, and a second attachment portion or component 104 protruding from the second end of the fastening portion 100. The fastening portion 100 has a top side oriented in a first direction that predetermines its attachment to the sole 18 of the shoe 12, and a bottom side oriented in a second direction substantially opposite to said first direction. It appears advantageous to form the attachment portion 100 and the attachment portions 102 and 104 in the form of a single, integral piece which is made of a rigid material that is acceptable for the purpose.

The fastening portion 100 has an opening or slot 112 for receiving one or more fasteners for permanently attaching the clip 14 to the sole 18 of the cycling shoe 12 in a relatively known manner. Attachment of the clip 14 to the sole 18 is well known in the art, and will not be given much attention in this description.

The first or front attachment portion 102 includes a protrusion portion 105 having a first attachment surface 106 and side portions having second attachment surfaces 108. The first attachment surface 106 faces the sole 18 of the shoe 12, while the second attachment surfaces 108 are oriented substantially opposite to the pedal body 22. The first attachment surface 106 is located between the upper and lower pedal side of the attachment portion 100. It appears advantageous if the attachment surfaces 106 and 108 are shaped to lie substantially in the same plane.

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The front attachment portion 102 forms a first attachment portion that protrudes from the front end of the attachment portion 100. The front attachment portion 102 has a protrusion portion 105 whose structural design meets its technical requirements for attaching it to the portion 60 of the clip clamping member 24. The protrusion portion 105 also has a curved, stop surface 113 thereon that extends substantially perpendicular to the attachment surfaces 106 and 108. The front attachment surfaces 106 and 108 are preferably in the form of substantially flat, planar surfaces which are designed to be in contact with each other. with front surfaces 64 and 66 for clamping the tabs of the front portion 30 of the gripping member 24, as previously discussed. The front attachment surface 106 is in the form of a flat or planar surface that is curved around a curved, stop surface 113. The front attachment surfaces 108 form a split, two-section attachment surface. The front attachment surface 106 is further away from said attachment portion than the front attachment surfaces 108.

The curved, stop surface 113 is designed to cooperate with the curved, stop surface 68 of the front gripping member 24 to prevent the clip 14 from moving forward relative to the pedal body 22. The curved, stop surfaces 68 and 113 together act as a pivot point for releasing the clip 14 from the pedal body 22.

The second or rear attachment portion 104 projects from the second end of the attachment portion 100 and comprises a protrusion portion 109 having a pair of third attachment surfaces 110 that extend substantially in the same direction as the first attachment surface 106 of the first attachment portion 102.

The rear attachment surfaces 110 of the rear attachment portion 104 cooperate with the rear surface 62 of the clamp fastener 62 of the clamping member 24 when clamping the clip 14 to the pedal body via one of the clamping members 24. The rear attachment surfaces 110 preferably have the form of substantially flat, planar surfaces. The rear attachment portion 104 also has a curved or angled inclined surface 114, the design of which allows the rear portion 62 to be operated to clamp the clip of the clamping member 24 while attaching the clip 14 of the shoe 12 to the pedal body 22. Specifically, the inclined surface 114 allows the clamping member 24 to pivot backward from the normal clamping position of the clip to the clip release position during downward movement of the clip 14 relative to the pedal body 22. The rear attachment portion 104 also includes a curved, stop surface 115 that cooperates with the curved, a stop surface 72 when disabling it

A movement of the clip 14 rearwardly relative to the pedal body 22 when said clip 14 is connected to the pedal 10 of the bicycle.

When attaching the clip 14 to the bicycle pedal 10, the cyclist treads on the pedal body 22, resulting in the automatic clamping of the fasteners 24 into the clip 14 mounted on the sole 18 of the cycling shoe 12. The tension adjusting mechanism 30 may be adjusted to some extent releasing the shoe clip 14 from the tread pedal 10.

More specifically, when attaching the cycling shoe to the tread pedal 10 via the clip 14, the rider moves the shoe 12 diagonally down and forward relative to the pedal body 22 so that the front end or protrusion portion 105 of the clip 14 contacts the front portion 50. For attaching the clip of one of the clamping members 24 of the pedal body 22. After attaching the front end of the clip 14 to the front clip fastening portion of one of the clamping members 24, the cyclist places the rear end of the clip 14 in contact with the rear 62 with another clamping member 24 of the pedal body 22. Accordingly, the cam surface 114 comes into contact with the angled, inclined surface of the clip retaining portion 62. In this position, the cyclist pushes the shoe 12 down against the pedal 10, resulting in moving the rear clamping member 24 against the spring force of the spring member 28 until the clip release position is reached. Thereafter, the rear end of the clip 14 enters a position in which it faces the rear face of the rear clamping member 62 of the clamping member 24. Subsequently, the rear clamping member 24 returns under the force of the spring member 28 and the rear clamping portion 62 of the clamping member 24 clamps the rear This gripping method provides a firm attachment of the cyclist shoe to the pedal 10 via the clip 14.

In the clamping position, the function of the front attachment portion 102 of the clip 14 appears to be important because this front attachment portion 102 prevents vertical movement on the front. Specifically, the first clip-engaging surface 64 is in contact with the first front attachment surface 106 and the second clip-engaging surface 66 is in contact with the second front attachment surface 108. The rear clamping surface 70 of the clamp member 24 is in contact with the rear attachment surface 110 of the clip 14 so as to provide a firm attachment of the rear attachment portion 104 of the clip 14 to the pedal body 22. The gap adjustment components 90 and 92 restrict the vertical movement of the rear attachment portion 104 of the clip 14 in relation

The gap adjustment components 90 and 92 will preferably maintain the space between the lower surface of the clip 14 and the pedal body 22.

When releasing the bore 12 from the pedal 10, the rider typically rotates the shoe 12 about an axis perpendicular to or approximately perpendicular to the B axis of the pedal 10. As a result, the rear of the clamping members 24 is rotated against the spring force 28 to reach the release position and release the shoe. 12 from the pedal 10.

Modified design

In Figures 35 to 40, a pedal 210 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. This embodiment resembles the embodiment of the pedal 10 described above, except that an additional tension adjusting mechanism is added to the spring member 228 as described below. Because of the similarities between the two embodiments, the pedal 210 will not be described or demonstrated in as much detail as the first embodiment.

The pedal 210 is a clip-on or stepless clamping pedal that can be used in connection with the clip 14, which is illustrated in detail in Figures 19 to 34. Accordingly, the clip 14 attaches to the pedal 210 in the same way as to the pedal 10, which has been described above. Therefore, no further attention will be given to this pedal feature 210 in the following. In addition, the basic components of the bicycle pedal 210 include a pedal shaft or spindle 220 which is adapted to be connected to the crank arm 16 (see Figure 1), and a pedal body 222 that is pivotally coupled to the pedal shaft 220 to form a foot support. slider.

The basic components of the pedal body 222 are first and second clamping members 224, each of the clamping members 224 being pivotally connected to the pedal body 222 by means of pivot pins 226, a pair of spring members 228 and a pair of clamping adjustment mechanisms 230.

One of the major differences between the pedal 10 and the pedal 210 is that the pedal 210 is equipped with an adjusting component or a screw 231. This adjusting component or screw 231 first places each of the spring components under tension. Specifically, this means that during the attachment of the clamping members 224 and spring members 228 to the pedal body 222 by means of pivot pins 226, the spring member 228 is not normally tensioned.

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The adjusting member or bolt 231 is screwed into a threaded bore 229 that is formed in the pedal body 222 so that the free end of the bolt contacts a portion of the respective clamping member to rotate the clamping member 224. Thus the spring member 228 now comes under tension. This design allows the bicycle pedal 210 to be easily assembled since the clamping members 224 and spring members 228 can be coupled to the pedal body 222 without placing the spring members under tension. This design also allows the initial tension to be controlled by using thin washers positioned between the screw head 231 and the pedal body 222.

The gap adjusting mechanism 232 is coupled to the pedal body 222 for the purpose of controlling or reducing the extent of play or wobbling of the shoe 12 relative to the bicycle pedal 210. In other words, the design of the gap adjusting mechanism 232 makes it possible to vary the amount of gap between the sole 18 of the shoe 12 and the pedal 210 of the bicycle. The gap adjustment mechanism 232 is similar to the gap adjustment mechanism 32 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the details of the gap adjustment mechanism 232 will not be discussed in the following. Although only the U-shaped adjuster 292 is shown in relation to the pedal 210, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is equally possible to use a tubular adjuster with a longitudinal incision in the same manner as the tubular adjuster. therefore, this feature of the pedal 210 will not be further discussed in the description. The only significant difference between the U-shaped adjusting members 292 of the present embodiment and the tubular adjusting member 90 of the first embodiment is that in the embodiment just described, a single screw 294 extends through the intermediate member 298. It is preferred that the longitudinal axis The pedal spindle 220 is a multistage spindle having a plurality of stepped portions and which enters a stepped bore 231 (see Figure 40) formed in the pedal body 222. The pedal spindle 220 has a first end 233 in which threads are formed for screwedly connecting the pedal 210 to the crank 16 in a manner known per se. The other end of the pedal spindle 220 carries the pedal body 222 rotatably in a manner known per se. The pedal body 222 can rotate freely about the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal spindle 220. Since the pedal spindle 220 is a relatively common component and its design is not essential to the invention, the pedal spindle 220 will not be described in further detail below.

I · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

In Figures 35 and 40, it is shown that the pedal body 222 has both a central tubular portion 236 for receiving the pedal spindle 220 and for rotating the pedal body 222 about the central longitudinal axis A and a pair of side portions 238 supporting the clamping members 224. the body 222 is preferably made of a light weight material such as an aluminum alloy. One end of the pedal body 222 is provided with one of the clamping members 224. Specifically, the pedal body 222 is generally a &quot; II &quot; (see FIGS. 35 and 40) component having both front or first an end with one of the clamping members 224 that is permanently attached to this end and, on the other hand, a rear or other end with a rear clamping member 224 that is rotatably attached to this end. The side portions 238 extend forward and backward from the central tubular portion 236 and are disposed on opposite sides of the clamping members 224. At each end of the side portions 238, apertures 240 are provided to permanently position the pivot 226 on which the clamping members are rotatably mounted. 224. The side portion 238, which is located on the outside of the pedal body 222, has a threaded attachment hole 242 formed on the outer surfaces, the center of the hole 242 being located on the longitudinal axis A. The attachment hole 242 is designed to mount a &quot; U &quot; The shaped adjusting members 292 of the gap adjusting mechanism 232 have been discussed above.

In Figures 34 and 37, it is best seen that the pedal body 222 is pivotally mounted on the pedal shaft 220 for rotation about the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 220. The pedal body 222 has a central longitudinal axis B that extends between the front and rear The central longitudinal axis B of the pedal body 222 extends substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis A of the pedal shaft 220. On each side of the pedal body 222, an area for entering and clamping the shoe clip 14 is provided. More specifically, the clip entry area is delimited by the space between the clamping members 224.

The gripping members 224 control the cycling shoe 12 as desired by attaching the cycling shoe sole 12 to the pedal 210. The gripping members 224 are pivotally mounted on pivot pins 226 at opposite ends of the pedal body 222. The gripping members 224 are curved to form a "U" shape. wherein both ends of each member 224 are pivotably hinged on pivot pins 226 (see FIGS. 36 to 39) that extend

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Between the side portions 238 of the pedal body 222. It is preferred that both the clamping member 224 are substantially the same and have a similar design as the clamping members 24 in the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, this feature of the pedal 210 will not be addressed.

Preferably, each spring member 228 is comprised of a pair of torsion springs having their coil parts disposed on pivot pins 226 such that one end of each spring contacts a portion of the pedal body 222. The other end of each spring of the spring member 228 contacts a portion of the mechanism. 230 for adjusting the tension as will be discussed in more detail below. The spring members 228 normally force the clamping members 224 to rotate about respective pivot pins 226 directed from their released positions in which the clip 14 is released to their positions in which the clip 14 is attached or clamped. In other words, the spring member 228 normally holds the clamping members 224 in the clamping position of the clip 14. The clamping holding forces exerted by the spring members 228 relative to the clamping members 224 are adjusted by the action of the tension adjusting mechanism 230.

Referring now to Figs. 35 to 38, it will be appreciated that each of the clamping members 224 includes a coupling portion 250 having a pair of legs 252 that extend downwardly from the coupling portion 250 and serves to attach the clamping member 224 to the pedal Accordingly, each clamping member 224 is rotatably mounted on a respective pivot pin 226 for displacement thereof between the clip clamping position and the clip release position. Each of the inner legs 252 also has a stop portion or flange 258 that cooperates with the end of the bolt 231 to define the extent of rotational movement of the clamping member 224 caused by the action of the spring member 228.

Each of the clamping members 224 is a front clamp clamping portion 260 and a rear clamp clamping portion 262. The front clamp clamping portion 260 protrudes from one side of the connector portion 250, while the rear clamp clamping portion 262 protrudes from the other side of the connector portion 250. The front clamp clamping portion 260 clamps the front clamp portion 14 while the rear clamp portion 262 is clamped. the fasteners grip the rear portion of the fastener 14 of the cycling shoe. In this sense, this pedal feature 210 is similar to that of the first embodiment and will not be considered in the following description. Similar to the first embodiment, it is now true that the front clamp clamping portion 260 of each of the clamping members 224 has a first clamp contact surface 264 that is oriented in a first direction and a second clamp contact surface 266 that is oriented in a second direction. which is substantially directed against the first direction. Similarly ► ·

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4, as in the first embodiment, clamp contact surfaces 264 and 266 maintain the front attachment portion 102 above the pedal body 222. It is preferred that there is a minimum clearance of approximately 0 between the tubular member of the pedal body 222 and the bottom surface of the clip 14. 35 mm.

The first clip-engaging surface 264 is formed by the raised central flange 267 having a curved, stopper engagement surface 268 of the cycling shoe 12 that limits the longitudinal movement of the clip 14 relative to the pedal body 222. The second clip-engaging surface 266 is formed. a pair of side flanges or 269 located on opposite sides of the raised central flange 267. It is preferred that the first clip-engaging surface 264 and the second clip-engaging surface 266 lie substantially in the same plane, but face each other. More specifically, the first fastener contact surface 264 faces downwardly from the sole 18 of the shoe 12, while the second fastener contact surface 266 faces the sole 18 of the shoe 12. In this sense, the first fastener contact surface 264 and the second surface 266 for engaging the clip, they retain the clip 14 near the tubular portion 236 of the pedal body 222.

The rear clip clamping portion 262 has a downwardly facing clip contact surface 270 that extends in substantially the same direction as the first clip clamping surface 264 of the front clip clamping portion 260 of the opposite clamping member 224. At the rear clip clamping portion 262 there is also a curved stop surface 272 is formed which limits the longitudinal movement of the clip 14 relative to the pedal body 222.

Referring to Fig. 39, each of the tension adjusting mechanisms 230 preferably includes an adjusting screw 274 and an adjusting nut 276. The adjusting screw 274 rotatably enters an aperture 290 formed in the clamping member 224. Additionally, a nut 276 is screwed onto the adjusting screw 274. As a result, rotating the adjusting screw 274 causes the adjusting nut 276 to move axially along the adjusting shaft shaft 274. Turning the adjusting screw 274 clockwise advantageously increases the spring efficiency of the spring member or springs 228 relative to the clip clamping member 224, while turning the adjusting screw 274 counterclockwise advantageously reduces the resilient efficiency of the spring member or springs 228 relative to the clamp member 224 Closing the clip. The guide tab of the adjusting nut 276 is located in a slot formed in the clip clamping member 224. It appears advantageous that the adjusting nut 226 can be seen through the slot 9 9 9

9 9

999 999 in the clip clamping member 224, so that it serves as a tension indicator to the user in determining the level of compressive spring force of the resilient member 228 relative to the clip clamping member 224. This allows the user to easily adjust the pair of bicycle pedals 210 so that both pedals have the same level of spring efficiency.

When attaching the clip 14 to the bicycle pedal 210, the cyclist treads on the pedal body 222, resulting in the automatic engagement of the clamping members 224 in the clip 14 mounted on the sole 18 of the cycling shoe 12. The tension adjusting mechanism 230 may be adjusted to some extent releasing the shoe clip 14 of the foot pedal 210. The clip 14 attaches to the bicycle pedal 210 in substantially the same manner as in the first embodiment. Therefore, the attachment of the clip 14 to the bicycle pedal will not be re-distributed in detail.

Although only two embodiments have been selected for the purpose of explaining the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. claims. In addition, the description of embodiments of the present invention performed is for the purpose of demonstrating the invention only and not for the exclusive limitation of this invention, which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (28)

A bicycle pedal assembly for clamping a shoe by a clip comprising a pedal shaft having a first end for attachment to a bicycle crank, a second end for supporting a rider's foot and a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between said first and second ends; a pedal body pivotally mounted to a second end of said pedal shaft, said pedal body having a first end, a second end, an inner side portion extending between said beer and second ends and from which said pedal shaft extends outwardly, and an outer side portion extending between said first and second ends; a first gripping member connected to said first end of said pedal body, the first gripping member having a first clip contact surface; a second gripping member connected to said second end of said pedal body, the second gripping member having a second gripping surface; and a first gap adjusting component, the first sole contact surface of which is detachably connected to said outer side portion of said pedal body. 2. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 1 wherein said gap adjusting beer component is disposed along said longitudinal axis of rotation. 3. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 2, wherein said first gap adjustment component is non-removably attached to said pedal body when coupled to said pedal body. 4. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 3, wherein said first gap adjusting member is rigidly attached to said pedal body by at least one threaded fastener. 5. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 4 wherein said longitudinal axis of said fastener extends substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis of rotation. ············ -27 · «« 27 27 27 27 27 27 6. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 4 wherein said longitudinal axis of said fastener extends substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of rotation. A bicycle pedal assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of said first clamping member and said second clamping member is pivotally connected to said pedal body and is pushed into the clip clamping position by operation of the spring member. A bicycle pedal assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first sole contact surface is a substantially planar surface. 9. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 1, wherein said pedal body further comprises a first clip side facing a first direction and a second clip side facing a second direction that is opposite to said first direction; said second clamping member further comprising a second, rear surface for engaging said clip; and said first gap adjusting component further comprises a second sole contact surface, wherein said first sole contact surface is oriented in said beer direction and said second sole contact surface is oriented in said second direction. 10. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 9, wherein said first gap adjustment component is rigidly attached to said pedal body by at least one threaded fastener. 11. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 10 wherein said longitudinal axis of said fastener extends substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis of rotation. 00 0 0 0 -2800 · * • · 0 · 0 0 0 · · · · · · ··· 0 0 0 0 12. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 10 wherein said longitudinal axis of said fastener extends substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of rotation. The bicycle pedal assembly according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 12, wherein said first gap adjusting component is substantially U-shaped and has a connecting portion connecting said first surface for contact with the sole. and said second surface for contacting the sole to each other. A bicycle pedal assembly according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 13, wherein said first sole contact surface is substantially the same as the second sole contact surface. 15. The bicycle pedal assembly of any one of the preceding claims 9 to 14, wherein a second component for adjusting the gap with the third surface for contact with the sole is attached to said pedal shaft following an inner side portion of said pedal body. 16. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 15, wherein said second gap adjustment component is a tubular component. 17. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 16, wherein said tubular member is longitudinally incised. 18. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 17, wherein said tubular member is made of a rigid material with the necessary flexibility, allowing said tubular member to partially unfold for replaceable placement on said pedal shaft. 19. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 2, further comprising a second component for adjusting the gap with the second surface for contact with the sole; -29 »* · 9 9 999 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 999 999 which is removably attached to the inner side portion of said pedal body and positioned on said longitudinal axis of rotation. 20. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 19 wherein both said first clamping member and said second clamping member are pivotably coupled to said pedal body, with a spring member positioned between the two. 21. The bicycle pedal assembly according to either claim 19 or claim 20, wherein said first clamping member is substantially the same as said second clamping member. 22. A bicycle pedal assembly for clamping a shoe by means of a clip comprising a pedal shaft having a first end for attachment to a bicycle crank, a second end for supporting a rider's foot and a longitudinal axis of rotation extending between said first and second ends; a pedal body pivotally mounted to a second end of said pedal shaft, said pedal body having a first end, a second end, an inner side extending between said first and second ends and from which said pedal shaft extends outwardly, and an outer side extending between said pedal shaft beer and the other end; a first clamping member coupled to said first end, the first clamping member having a first clip engaging surface; a second clamping member coupled to said second end, the second clamping member having a second clip engaging surface; and a first component for adjusting the gap with the first surface for contact with the sole, which removably attaches to said pedal shaft. 23. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 22 wherein said first gap adjustment component is a tubular component. ·· · * · · · · · · -30 * · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 24. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 23, wherein said tubular member is longitudinally incised. 25. The bicycle pedal assembly of claim 24, wherein said tubular member is made of a rigid material with the necessary flexibility to allow said tubular member to unfold partially for replaceable placement on said pedal shaft. 26. The bicycle pedal assembly according to any one of the preceding claims 22 to 25, wherein both said first clamping member and said second clamping member are pivotally connected to said pedal body, with a resilient spring positioned between the two components. part. 27. The bicycle pedal assembly of any one of claims 22 to 26, wherein said first clamping member is substantially the same as said second clamping member. 28. The bicycle pedal assembly according to any of the preceding claims 22 to 27, wherein said inner side portion has a tubular portion that extends outwardly from said outer side portion for the purpose of entering and passing through said pedal shaft, and said tubular component. is disposed on said tubular portion.