DE102022112565A1 - ACTUATING DEVICE FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE - Google Patents

Abstract

An actuator includes a base member, an actuator, a piston, an intermediate body and an adjusting screw. The piston is coupled to the actuator to be moved from a home position to an actuated position in response to pivotal movement of the actuator relative to the base member. The intermediate body is movable relative to the base member along a hole center axis together with the piston. The adjusting screw is configured to move the intermediate body relative to the base member along the hole center axis to change the initial position of the piston in response to an adjustment operation of the user. The adjusting screw has a different screw center axis than the hole center axis.

Description

BACKGROUND

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an actuation device for a human-powered vehicle.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION(S).

A human-powered vehicle includes an operating unit in accordance with a comparative example. The actuation unit includes a base part, a user control member, a piston and a container. The user control member is movably connected to the base part. The actuation unit is configured to actuate a component in response to movement of the user control member of the actuation unit. The piston is movably provided in a cylinder of the base part. The piston is connected to the user control member to be moved relative to the base portion when the user control member is moved relative to the base portion by a user. A first chamber is defined by the base part and the piston in the cylinder. The container contains a second chamber. The second chamber is in fluid communication with the first chamber via a connection hole. The piston blocks fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber after the piston begins to move from its home position. In order to improve response of the actuation unit, it is advantageous for the piston to quickly block the fluid connection after it has moved from its initial position. The initial position of the piston is changed using an adjusting device. Such an adjustment structure generally occupies a space in the operating unit. One of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide an actuator that can change an initial position of a piston using a comparatively simple structure while saving a space in which the adjusting screw is provided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle includes a base member, an operating member, a piston, an intermediate body, and an adjusting screw. The base link has a hole with a hole centerline. The actuator is pivotally coupled to the base member about a pivot axis in response to user operation. The actuating member can be pivoted relative to the base member about the pivot axis from a rest position into an actuating position. The piston is movably provided in the hole. The piston is coupled to the actuator to be moved from a home position to an operated position in response to pivotal movement of the actuator relative to the base member. The intermediate body is movable relative to the base member along the hole center axis together with the piston. The adjusting screw is configured to move the intermediate body relative to the base member along the hole center axis to change the initial position of the piston in response to an adjustment operation of the user. The adjustment screw has a screw center axis that is different from the hole center axis.

With the actuator according to the first aspect, the initial position of the piston changes due to the movement of the intermediate body relative to the base member along the hole center axis. In addition, since the screw center axis is different from the hole center axis, it is possible to use an area provided around the hole center axis as a location where the adjusting screw is provided. In this way it is possible to change the initial position of the piston with the adjusting screw and at the same time reduce the space required for the adjusting screw.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, in the actuating device according to the first aspect, the screw center axis is arranged not to run parallel to the hole center axis when viewed in a first direction parallel to the pivot axis.

With the operating device according to the second aspect, it is possible to improve the flexibility in arranging the adjusting screw.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the actuating device according to the first or second aspect, the intermediate body is configured to include a contact surface which can be touched by the adjusting screw.

With the actuating device according to the third aspect, it is possible to reliably transmit a movement of the adjusting screw to the intermediate body.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the actuating device according to the third aspect, the contact surface is configured to include a surface inclined with respect to the hole center axis.

With the operation device according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to group the adjustment screw in a position where the adjustment screw can be easily operated by the user.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the base member is configured to include an adjusting threaded hole. The adjusting screw includes an externally threaded portion that engages the adjusting threaded hole.

With the operating device according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to change the initial position of the piston using the adjusting screw with a comparatively simple structure.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the intermediate body is configured to include an opening. The center axis of the hole extends through the opening of the intermediate body.

With the operating device according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to arrange the intermediate body in a position in which the intermediate body is smoothly movable together with the piston.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the actuator according to the sixth aspect, the piston is arranged to extend through the opening of the intermediate body.

With the operating device according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to improve the space required for providing the adjusting screw.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the sixth or seventh aspect, the intermediate body is configured to include a first intermediate part and a second intermediate part. The first intermediate part contains the opening. The second intermediate part protrudes from the first intermediate part away from the center axis of the hole and can be touched by the adjusting screw.

With the operating device according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to improve the flexibility of the arrangement of the adjusting screw because the second intermediate part protrudes from the first intermediate part from the hole center axis.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the eighth aspect, the base member is configured to include a guide recess. The intermediate body is movably provided in the guide recess along the hole center axis of the hole.

In the operating device according to the ninth aspect, the guide recess makes movement of the intermediate body smoother.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the ninth aspect, the guide recess is configured to be provided between the hole and the operating member.

With the operating device according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to use a region provided between the hole and the operating member as a place where the guide recess and the intermediate body are provided.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the ninth or tenth aspect, the guide recess is configured to include a first guide recess. The first intermediate part is at least partially provided in the first guide recess.

In the operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the first guide recess makes movement of the first intermediate body smoother.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to any of the ninth to eleventh aspects, the guide recess is configured to include a second guide recess. The second intermediate part is at least partially provided in the second guide recess.

In the operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the second guide recess makes movement of the second intermediate body smoother.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the actuating device according to one of the first to twelfth aspects, the screw center axis is arranged to be offset from the hole center axis in a second direction perpendicular to the pivot axis and to the hole center axis.

With the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to have one Hole center axis to effectively use the area provided around as a place where the adjusting screw is provided. In this way, it is possible to reliably improve the space required for providing the adjusting screw.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the actuating device according to one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the screw center axis is set up to run parallel to the hole center axis in a second direction perpendicular to the pivot axis and to the hole center axis.

With the operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to effectively use a region provided around the hole center axis as a location where the adjusting screw is provided. In this way, it is possible to reliably improve the space required for providing the adjusting screw.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the actuator according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects further comprises a coupling structure that connects the piston and the actuator to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuator to the piston. The intermediate body can be contacted with the coupling structure in order to bring the piston into the starting position.

With the actuator according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to reliably bring the piston to the home position using the intermediate body and the coupling structure.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the actuator according to the fifteenth aspect, the coupling structure is configured to include a first coupling pin, a first coupling member, and a second coupling member. The first coupling member is pivotally coupled to the piston via the first coupling pin. The second coupling member is pivotally coupled to the piston via the first coupling pin. The intermediate body can be touched by at least one of the first coupling pin, the first coupling member and the second coupling member in order to bring the piston into the starting position.

With the actuator according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to reliably position the piston in the home position while connecting the piston and the actuator with a comparatively simple structure.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the coupling structure is configured to include an intermediate member pivotally coupled to the first coupling member and the second coupling member. The intermediate member is coupled to the base member so that it can pivot about the pivot axis.

In the actuator according to the seventeenth aspect, the intermediate member improves the flexibility of the arrangement of the first coupling member and the second coupling member, while the actuator, the second coupling member and the intermediate member connect the actuator and the piston.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the actuator according to the seventeenth aspect, the intermediate member is arranged to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuator to the piston via the first coupling pin, the first coupling member and the second coupling member.

With the actuator according to the eighteenth aspect, the intermediate member reliably improves the flexibility of the arrangement of the first coupling member and the second coupling member, while the first coupling pin, the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the intermediate member transmit the pivoting movement of the actuator and the piston.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the seventeenth or eighteenth aspect, the coupling structure is configured to include a second coupling pin. The second coupling pin pivotally connects the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the intermediate member.

With the actuation device according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to reliably connect the first coupling member, the second coupling member and the intermediate member via the second coupling pin.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, the intermediate member is configured to include a guide groove. The second coupling pin extends through the guide groove.

With the operating device according to the twentieth aspect, it is possible to change a movement of the piston based on the shape of the guide groove of the intermediate member.

In accordance with a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the actuator according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects, the hole center axis of the hole is configured to define a first range and a second range as viewed along the pivot axis. The adjusting screw is at least partially provided in the first area as seen along the pivot axis. The pivot axis is provided in the second area.

With the operating device according to the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to use the first area as a location where the adjusting screw is provided.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the operating device according to any one of the first to twenty-first aspects, the piston is arranged to be drawn from the rest position to the operating position in response to the pivoting movement of the operating member.

With the operating device according to the twenty-second aspect, it is possible to make movement of the piston smoother than in the case where the piston is arranged to be pushed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

• 1 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Betätigungsvorrichtung in Übereinstimmung mit einer Ausführungsform.
• 2 ist eine Querschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie II-II von 3 (Ruheposition).
• 3 ist eine Querschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie III-III von 2 (Ruhestellung).
• 4 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie IV-IV von 3 (Ruhestellung).
• 5 ist eine vergrößerte Teilquerschnittsansicht der in 4 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung.
• 6 ist eine perspektivische Teilansicht der in 1 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung.
• 7 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie VII-VII von 5.
• 8 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie VIII-VIII von 5.
• 9 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie IX-IX von 4.
• 10 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie X-X von 11.
• 11 ist eine Seitenansicht der in 1 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung.
• 12 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Zwischenkörpers der in 1 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung.
• 13 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Linie XIII-XIII von 10.
• 14 ist eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der in 1 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung.

A more complete understanding of the invention and many of the advantages associated therewith may be readily gained by better understanding it in conjunction with the accompanying drawings with reference to the following detailed description.

• 1 is a perspective view of an actuator in accordance with one embodiment.
• 2 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line II-II of 3 (resting position).
• 3 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line III-III of 2 (rest position).
• 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line IV-IV of 3 (rest position).
• 5 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the in 4 illustrated actuating device.
• 6 is a partial perspective view of the in 1 illustrated actuating device.
• 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line VII-VII of 5 .
• 8th is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line VIII-VIII of 5 .
• 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line IX-IX of 4 .
• 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line XX of 11 .
• 11 is a side view of the in 1 illustrated actuating device.
• 12 is a perspective view of an intermediate body in 1 illustrated actuating device.
• 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the actuator taken along line XIII-XIII of 10 .
• 14 is a partial cross-sectional view of the in 1 illustrated actuating device.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The embodiment(s) will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements in the various drawings.

As in 1 As can be seen, an actuating device 10 for a human-powered vehicle 2 includes a base member 12. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted on the human-powered vehicle 2. The actuating device 10 is set up to be connected to an actuated device 4 via a hydraulic hose 6.

In the present embodiment, the base member 12 is configured to be mounted on a vehicle body 2A of the human-powered vehicle 2. The base member 12 is configured to be mounted on a tubular part 2B (e.g., a handlebar) of the vehicle body 2A of the human-powered vehicle 2. The tubular part 2B has a longitudinal central axis 2C. The tubular part 2B extends along the longitudinal central axis 2C. However, the base member 12 can also be mounted on other parts of the human-powered vehicle 2 if necessary and/or desired.

In the present application, a human-powered vehicle is a vehicle that moves with a driving force that is at least involves the human power of a user driving the human-powered vehicle (ie, the driver). The human-powered vehicle includes various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a racing bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a handbike and a recumbent bike. The human-powered vehicle also includes an electric bicycle (e-bike). The electric bicycle includes an electrically assisted bicycle set up to assist in propelling a vehicle with an electric motor. However, the total number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited to two. For example, the human-powered vehicle includes a vehicle with one wheel or three or more wheels. In particular, the human-powered vehicle does not include a vehicle that only uses an internal combustion engine as a driving force. Generally, a human-powered vehicle is considered to be a light road vehicle, which includes a vehicle that does not require a driver's license to operate on public roads.

In this application, the following directional terms refer to “front,” “back,” “forward,” “backward,” “left,” “right,” “across,” “upward,” and “downward,” and all other similar directional terms those directions determined based on a user (e.g., a driver) located in the user's standard position (e.g., on a saddle or a seat) in the human-powered vehicle 2 and looking at a handlebar or steering. Accordingly, these terms used to describe the actuator 10 or other components should be interpreted in accordance with the human-powered vehicle 2 equipped with the actuator 10 or other components in an upright driving position on a horizontal surface.

In the present embodiment, the operating device 10 is a right-handed/right-side operating device configured to be operated by a user's right hand. However, the structures of the actuator 10 can also be applied to a left-handed/left-sided actuator if necessary and/or desired.

The base member 12 includes a mounting structure 13. The mounting structure 13 defines a mounting axis A7 and is arranged to couple the mounting structure 13 to the tubular part 2B of the human-powered vehicle 2. The mounting structure 13 includes a mounting opening 13A through which the tubular part 2B of the human-powered vehicle 2 extends. The mounting axis A7 extends along the longitudinal center axis 2C of the tubular part 2B in a state in which the mounting structure 13 couples the base member 12 and the tubular part 2B of the human-powered vehicle 2 to each other.

As in 2 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 for the human-powered vehicle 2 includes an actuating member 14. The actuating member 14 is coupled to the base member 12 so that it can pivot about a pivot axis A1. The actuation member 14 is pivotable relative to the base member 12 about the pivot axis A1 from a rest position P11 to an actuation position P12 in response to a user operation.

In the present application, the term "rest position" as used herein refers to a position in which a movable part such as the actuator 14 remains stationary in a state in which the movable part is not operated by the user becomes. The term “operating position” as used herein refers to a position in which the movable part has been operated by the user to perform a function of a component of the bicycle such as the operated device 4.

The actuator 14 includes a proximal end 14A and a distal end 14B and extends between the proximal end 14A and the distal end 14B. The proximal end 14A is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 about the pivot axis A1.

The actuating device 10 further comprises a rotating shaft 15. The rotating shaft 15 defines the pivot axis A1. The actuator 14 is pivotally coupled to the base member 12 about the pivot axis A1 via the rotary shaft 15.

The base member 12 includes a hole 16. The hole 16 has a hole center axis A2. The hole 16 extends along the hole center axis A2. The actuator 10 for the human-powered vehicle 2 includes a piston 17. The piston 17 is movably provided in the hole 16. The piston 17 is movable relative to the base member 12 along the hole center axis A2. The piston 17 is movable relative to the base member 12 in a direction of movement D5 parallel to the hole center axis A2. The piston 17 is coupled to the actuator 14 to be moved relative to the base member 12 in response to pivotal movement of the actuator 14 relative to the base member 12.

The piston 17 is coupled to the actuator 14 to be moved from a home position P21 to an operated position P22 in response to the pivotal movement of the actuator 14 relative to the base member 12. The piston 17 is in a resting state in the starting position P21, in which the actuating member 14 is in the resting position P11. The piston 17 is in the operated position P22 in an actuated state in which the actuator 14 is in the actuated position P12.

In the present embodiment, the piston 17 is arranged to be drawn from the rest position P11 to the operating position P12 in response to the pivoting movement of the actuator 14. However, the piston 17 can be arranged to be pushed from the rest position P11 to the actuation position P12 in response to the pivoting movement of the actuator 14 if necessary and/or desired.

The base member 12 and the piston 17 define a hydraulic chamber 18 in the hole 16. The hydraulic chamber 18 is arranged to communicate with an additional hydraulic chamber of the actuated device 4 via the hydraulic hose 6. The actuator 10 includes a piston biasing member 19. The piston biasing member 19 is provided in the hydraulic chamber 18 to bias the piston 17 toward the home position P21.

As in 2 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 further comprises a coupling structure 21. The coupling structure 21 couples the piston 17 and the actuating member 14 in order to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuating member 14 to the piston 17.

The coupling structure 21 includes an intermediate member 22. Namely, the actuator 10 also includes the intermediate member 22. The intermediate member 22 is provided between the actuator 14 and the piston 17 to move the piston 17 relative to the base member 12 in response to the pivoting movement of the actuator 14 . The intermediate member 22 is coupled to the base member 12 so that it can pivot about the pivot axis A1. The intermediate member 22 can be pivoted relative to the base member 12 together with the actuating member 14 about the pivot axis A1. However, the intermediate member 22 can also be pivotally coupled to the base member 12 about a pivot axis other than the pivot axis A1, if this is necessary and/or desired.

As in 3 As can be seen, the coupling structure 21 includes a first coupling pin 24, a first coupling member 26 and a second coupling member 28. The first coupling member 26 is pivotally coupled to the piston 17 via the first coupling pin 24. The second coupling member 28 is pivotally coupled to the piston 17 via the first coupling pin 24.

The intermediate member 22 is pivotally coupled to the first coupling member 26 and the second coupling member 28. The intermediate member 22 is set up to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuating member 14 to the piston 17 via the first coupling pin 24, the first coupling member 26 and the second coupling member 28.

The coupling structure 21 includes a second coupling pin 30. The second coupling pin 30 pivotally couples the first coupling member 26, the second coupling member 28 and the intermediate member 22. The coupling structure 21 includes a first roller 31A and a second roller 31B. The first roller 31A is rotatably attached to a part of the second coupling pin 30. The second roller 31B is rotatably attached to the other part of the second coupling pin 30. The base member 12 includes a first guide groove 12A and a second guide groove 12B. The first guide groove 12A extends in the moving direction D5. The second guide groove 12B extends in the moving direction D5. The first roller 31A is movably provided in the first guide groove 12A. The second roller 31B is movably provided in the second guide groove 12B.

As in 4 As can be seen, the intermediate member 22 includes a guide groove 32. The second coupling pin 30 extends through the guide groove 32. The coupling structure 21 includes a cam follower 34. The cam follower 34 is coupled to the second coupling pin 30. The cam follower 34 is provided in the guide groove 32.

The intermediate member 22 includes a cam surface 36. The cam surface 36 partially delimits the guide groove 32. The cam follower 34 can be touched by the cam surface 36. The cam surface 36 is configured to guide the cam follower 34 and the second coupling pin 30 in response to the pivotal movement of the intermediate member 22 and the actuator 14.

The cam follower 34 includes a roller 38 and a bearing 40. The roller 38 is provided radially outside the second coupling pin 30. The bearing 40 supports the roller 38 rotatably about the second coupling pin 30. The roller 38 can be contacted with the cam surface 36. The structure of the coupling pin However, 34 is not limited to the role 38 and the bearing 40.

As in 2 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 for the human-powered vehicle 2 includes an adjusting member 42. The adjusting member 42 is configured to move the actuating member 14 relative to the piston 17 to adjust the rest position P11 of the actuating member 14 relative to the base member 12 in response to an adjusting operation of the user.

In the present embodiment, the adjustment member 42 is movably coupled to the actuator 14. The adjustment member 42 is movable relative to the actuator 14 in response to the user's adjustment operation. The user's adjustment process includes a force exerted by a user on the adjustment member 42. However, the adjusting member 42 can also be movably coupled to other members such as the intermediate member 22 if required and/or desired.

In the present embodiment, the adjusting member 42 is rotatably coupled to the actuating member 14 about a rotation axis A3. The adjustment member 42 is rotatable relative to the actuator 14 about the rotation axis A3 in response to the user's adjustment operation. The user adjustment includes a rotational force exerted by the user on the adjusting member 42. However, the adjustment member 42 may also be rotatably coupled to other members such as the intermediate member 22 if required and/or desired.

The adjusting member 42 is rotatable relative to the operating member 14 about the rotation axis A3 to change the rest position P11 of the operating member 14 relative to the base member 12 in response to the user's adjustment operation. The adjusting member 42 is set up to change a position of the actuating member 14 relative to the intermediate member 22. The adjusting member 42 is rotatable relative to the operating member 14 about the rotation axis A3 to change the rest position P11 of the operating member 14 relative to the base member 12 in response to the user's adjustment operation without changing the position of the piston 17 relative to the base member 12.

In the present embodiment, the rotation axis A3 is not parallel to the hole center axis A2 in the rest state in which the actuator 14 is in the rest position P11. However, the rotation axis A3 can be parallel to the hole center axis A2 at rest if this is required and/or desired.

As in 5 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 further comprises an adjusting rod 44. The adjusting rod 44 has a longitudinal axis A4. The adjusting rod 44 extends along the longitudinal axis A4. The adjusting rod 44 is movably coupled to the actuating member 14 along the longitudinal axis A4 and can be touched by the intermediate member 22. The longitudinal axis A4 of the adjusting rod 44 extends along the rotation axis A3. In the present embodiment, the longitudinal axis A4 of the adjusting rod 44 coincides with the rotation axis A3. However, the longitudinal axis A4 of the adjusting rod 44 can be offset relative to the rotation axis A3 if necessary and/or desired.

The adjustment rod 44 includes a first rod end 44A and a second rod end 44B. The adjustment rod 44 extends between the first rod end 44A and the second rod end 44B along the longitudinal axis A4. The first rod end 44A can be touched by the intermediate member 22. The actuator 14 includes a guide hole 46. The second rod end 44B is movably provided in the guide hole 46.

The actuator 10 includes a restriction plate 48. The restriction plate 48 is attached to the actuator 14 to prevent rotation of the actuator 14 about the rotation axis A3. The restriction plate 48 is coupled to the adjustment rod 44 to prevent the adjustment rod 44 from rotating relative to the actuator 14 about the rotation axis A3. Thus, the adjusting rod 44 is movable relative to the actuator 14 along the rotation axis A3 without rotating relative to the actuator 14 about the rotation axis A3.

As in 6 As can be seen, the adjustment rod 48 includes an adjustment hole 48A. The adjustment rod 44 extends through the adjustment hole 48A. The adjustment hole 48A and the adjustment rod 44 have such a shape that the adjustment member 42 is prevented from rotating relative to the restriction member 60 about the rotation axis A3. For example, the restriction plate 48 includes a first restriction surface 48B and a second restriction surface 48C spaced from the first restriction surface 48B. The first restriction surface 48B and the second restriction surface 48C partially restrict the adjustment hole 48A.

As in 5 As seen, the adjustment rod 44 includes a first flat surface 44D and a second flat surface 44E provided on a back side of the first flat surface 44D. The first flat surface 44D can be touched with the first restriction surface 48B. The second flat surface 44E can be touched with the second restriction surface 48C.

As in 6 As can be seen, the actuator 14 includes a support opening 50. The adjusting member 42 is at least partially provided in the support opening 50. The locking plate 48 is at least partially provided in the support opening 50.

As in 7 As can be seen, the adjusting member 42 is partially provided in the support opening 50. The throttle plate 48 is partially provided in the support opening 50. However, the adjustment member 42 may also be provided entirely within the support opening 50 if necessary and/or desired. The restriction plate 48 may be provided entirely within the support opening 50 if required and/or desired.

The adjustment member 42 and the restriction plate 48 are provided in the support hole 50 to prevent movement relative to the actuator 14 along the rotation axis A3.

The adjusting member 42 is threadedly engaged with or screwed to the adjusting rod 44 to move the adjusting rod 44 in response to movement of the adjusting member 42 relative to the actuating member 14 along the longitudinal axis A4. In the present embodiment, the adjusting member 42 includes a threaded hole 42A. The adjusting rod 44 includes an externally threaded part 44C. The threaded hole 42A of the adjusting member 42 is adapted to be engaged with the externally threaded portion 44C of the adjusting rod 44 to move the adjusting rod 44 relative to the actuating member 14 along the longitudinal axis A4 in response to rotation of the adjusting member 42 relative to the adjusting rod 44 to move the longitudinal axis A4.

The threaded hole 42A of the adjusting member 42 is adapted to be engaged with the externally threaded portion 44C of the adjusting rod 44 to move the adjusting rod 44 relative to the actuating member 14 in response to rotation of the adjusting member 42 relative to the adjusting rod 44 about the rotation axis A3 , to move along the longitudinal axis A4. However, the adjusting member 42 and the adjusting rod 44 may include structures other than the threaded hole 42A and the externally threaded member 44C if necessary and/or desired.

As in 5 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 includes a stop pin 51. The stop pin 51 is attached to the adjusting rod 44 to limit a range of movement of the adjusting rod 44 relative to the adjusting member 42.

As in 7 As can be seen, the adjustment rod 44 is movable in response to the rotation of the adjustment member 42 relative to the actuator 14 along the rotation axis A3 between a first end position P31 and a second end position P32. The first end position P31 is defined by the adjusting member 42 and the stop pin 51. The second end position P32 is defined by the adjusting rod 44 and the limiting plate 48. The rest position P11 of the actuator 14 is a first rest position P11A (see e.g 1 ) in a first state in which the adjusting rod 44 is in the first end position P31. The rest position P11 of the actuator 14 is a second rest position P11B (see e.g 1 ) in a second state in which the adjusting rod 44 is in the second end position P32. Thus, the rest position P11 is changed between the first rest position P11A and the second rest position P11B by rotating the adjusting member 42 relative to the actuating member 14 about the rotation axis A3.

As in 8th As can be seen, the adjustment member 42 includes an outer periphery 42B. The outer periphery 42B extends in the circumferential direction around the rotation axis A3. The outer periphery 42B is set up to receive the user's adjustment process or to be operated by the user. The outer periphery 42B is configured to touch a user's hand when the outer periphery 42B receives the user's adjustment operation or is operated by the user.

The adjusting member 42 includes at least two recesses 42C. The at least two recesses 42C are provided on the outer periphery 42B of the adjusting member 42. The adjusting member 42 includes at least two protruding parts 42D provided on the outer periphery 42B. The at least two recesses 42C are each provided between two adjacent ones of the at least two protruding parts 42D. The at least two recesses 42C are grouped in a circumferential direction D3 defined around the rotation axis A3. The at least two recesses 42C are configured to create rotational resistance between the adjusting member 42 and a user's hand when the adjusting member 42 is rotated by the user relative to the actuating member 14 about the rotation axis A3.

In the present embodiment, the at least two recesses 42C are grouped at regular intervals in the circumferential direction D3. The at least two protruding parts 42D are grouped at regular intervals in the circumferential direction D3. The total number of at least two recesses 42C is more than 20. The total number of at least two out protruding parts 42D is greater than 20. The total number of at least two recesses 42C is between 20 and 40. The total number of at least two protruding parts 42D is between 20 and 40. The total number of at least two recesses 42C is 34. The total number of at least two protruding parts 42D is 34. However, the at least two recesses 42C may be grouped at irregular intervals in the circumferential direction D3 if necessary and/or desired. The at least two protruding parts 42D can be grouped at irregular intervals in the circumferential direction D3 if necessary and/or desired. The total number of at least two recesses 42C is not limited to 34. The total number of at least two protruding parts 42D is not limited to 34.

As in 8th As can be seen, the actuating device 10 for the human-powered vehicle 2 includes a positioning structure 52. The positioning structure 52 is set up to bring the adjusting member 42 into one of at least two adjusting positions relative to the actuating member 14. The positioning structure 52 is configured to rotate the adjusting member 42 relative to the actuating member 14 about the rotation axis A3 between two adjacent positions of the at least two adjusting positions when the rotational force exerted on the adjusting member 42 exceeds a rotational force threshold. The at least two recesses 42C correspond to the at least two adjustment positions. Thus, the total number of at least two adjustable positions is more than 20. The total number of at least two adjustable positions is between 20 and 40. The total number of at least two adjustable positions is 34. However, the total number of at least two adjustable positions is not limited to 34.

The positioning structure 52 can be touched with the outer periphery 42B of the adjusting member 42. The positioning structure 52 is configured to contact the outer periphery 42B of the adjustment member 42 to position the adjustment member 42 relative to the actuator 14 in one of the at least two adjustment positions. The positioning structure 52 is configured to contact two of the at least two pop-out portions 42D of the adjusting member 42 to position the adjusting member 42 relative to the actuating member 14 in one of the at least two adjusting positions. The positioning structure 52 is provided radially outside the adjusting member 42 with respect to the rotation axis A3.

The positioning structure 52 is configured to be at least partially provided in one of the at least two recesses 42C to position the adjustment member 42 in one of the at least two adjustment positions. In the present embodiment, the positioning structure 52 is configured to be partially provided in one of the at least two recesses 42C to position the adjustment member 42 in one of the at least two adjustment positions. However, the positioning structure 52 may be configured to be provided entirely within one of the at least two recesses 42C to position the adjustment member 42 in one of the at least two adjustment positions if necessary and/or desired.

As in 8th As can be seen, the positioning structure 52 includes a positioning biasing member 54. The positioning biasing member 54 is configured to exert a positioning biasing force on the outer periphery 42B of the adjustment member 42.

The positioning structure 52 includes a positioning member 56. The positioning member 56 is provided between the adjusting member 42 and the positioning biasing member 54. The positioning biasing member 54 is configured to press the positioning member 56 against the outer periphery 42B of the adjusting member 42.

The positioning member 56 includes a curved surface 56A that comes into contact with the outer periphery 42B of the adjusting member 42. The positioning member 56 includes a ball 56B that includes the curved surface 56A. The positioning bias member 54 includes a spring 54A. The spring 54A is configured to tilt the ball 56B toward the outer periphery 42B of the adjusting member 42. However, the structure of the positioning structure 52 is not limited to the structure shown. The positioning member 56 may also have shapes other than a ball if necessary and/or desired. The positioning bias member 54 may have shapes (e.g., a leaf spring) other than a coiled spring if required and/or desired. The positioning bias member 54 may be made of a non-metallic material such as rubber. The positioning member 56 may be omitted from the positioning structure 52 if required and/or desired. In such embodiments, the positioning bias member 54 is configured to contact the outer periphery 42B of the adjustment member 42.

As in 8th As can be seen, the actuator 14 includes a receiving recess 58. The positioning structure 52 is at least partially provided in the receiving recess 58. The support opening 50 is arranged to be in communication with the receiving recess 58. In the present embodiment, the positioning structure 52 is partially ready in the receiving recess 58 placed. However, the positioning structure 52 may also be provided entirely within the receiving recess 58 if required and/or desired.

As in 2 As can be seen, the pivot axis A1 is closer to the positioning structure 52 than the distal end 14B, as viewed along the pivot axis A1. The adjusting member 42 is, as seen along the pivot axis A1, at least partially closer to the pivot axis A1 than to the positioning structure 52. The positioning structure 52 is at least partially provided between the adjusting member 42 and the distal end 14B of the actuating member 14, as viewed along the pivot axis A1 .

In the present embodiment, the adjusting member 42, as viewed along the pivot axis A1, is significantly closer to the pivot axis A1 than the positioning structure 52. The positioning structure 52, as viewed along the pivot axis A1, is completely between the adjusting member 42 and the distal end 14B of the actuator 14 provided. However, if necessary and/or desired, the adjusting member 42 can be partially closer to the pivot axis A1 than the positioning structure 52, seen along the pivot axis A1. The positioning structure 52 may be partially provided between the adjustment member 42 and the distal end 14B of the actuator 14 as viewed along the pivot axis A1, if necessary and/or desired. The positioning structure 52 can, if necessary and/or desired, be closer to the pivot axis A1 than the adjusting member 42 as seen along the pivot axis A1.

The rotation axis A3 defines a first separated area R11 and a second separated area R12, viewed along the pivot axis A1. The distal end 14B of the actuator 14 is provided in the first separated region R11. The pivot axis A1 is provided in the second separated area R12, viewed along the pivot axis A1. The piston 17 is provided in the second separated area R12, viewed along the pivot axis A1. The positioning structure 52 is at least partially provided in the first separated area R11, viewed along the pivot axis A1. In the present embodiment, the positioning structure 52 is completely provided in the first separated region R11 as viewed along the pivot axis A1. However, the positioning structure 52 can also be partially provided in the first separated area R11, viewed along the pivot axis A1, if necessary and/or desired.

As in 9 As can be seen, the actuator 10 further includes a restriction member 60. The restriction member 60 is attached to the rotation shaft 15 to prevent the pivot axis A1 from moving relative to the base member 12 along the pivot axis A1. The restriction member 60 includes a restriction opening 60A. The rotating shaft 15 extends through the restriction opening 60A.

The rotating shaft 15 includes an outer peripheral surface 62 and a restricting groove 64 provided on the outer peripheral surface 62. The restricting member 60 is designed to be at least partially provided in the restricting groove 64. In the present embodiment, the restricting member 60 is configured to be partially provided in the restricting groove 64. However, the restriction member 60 may be configured to be provided entirely within the restriction groove 64 if necessary and/or desired.

The base member 12 includes a first support member 66 and a second support member 68 spaced from the first support member 66 along the pivot axis A1. The first support part 66 and the second support part 68 are arranged to support the rotary shaft 15. The restricting member 60 is at least partially provided between the first support part 66 and the second support part 68. In the present embodiment, the restricting member 60 is completely provided between the first support part 66 and the second support part 68. However, the restriction member 60 may also be partially provided between the first support part 66 and the second support part 68 if necessary and/or desired.

The first support member 66 includes a first support opening 66A. The second support member 68 includes a second support opening 68A. The rotating shaft 15 includes a first shaft end 15A and a second shaft end 15B, and extends between the first shaft end 15A and the second shaft end 15B along the pivot axis A1. The first shaft end 15A is at least partially provided in the first support opening 66A. The second shaft end 15B is at least partially provided in the second support opening 68A. The second support opening 68A has a closed end 68C adapted not to be open outside the base member 12. The first shaft end 15A is closer to the restriction member 60 than the second shaft end 15B. The second shaft end 15B can be touched with the closed end 68C of the second support opening 68A.

In the present embodiment, the first shaft end 15A is partially provided in the first support hole 66A. The second end of the wave 15B is fully provided in the second support opening 68A. However, the first shaft end 15A can also be provided completely in the first support opening 66A if necessary and/or desired. The second shaft end 15B may be partially provided in the second support opening 68A if required and/or desired. The second support opening 68A may be a through hole like the first support opening 66A if required and/or desired. The second shaft end 15B may be closer to the restriction member 60 than the first shaft end 15A if necessary and/or desired.

As in 9 As can be seen, the first support opening 66A has a first inner diameter DM11. The second support hole 68A has a second inner diameter DM12. The restricting member 60 has an outside diameter DM21. The outer diameter DM21 is larger than the first inner diameter DM11 of the first support hole 66A. The outer diameter DM21 is larger than the second inner diameter DM12 of the second support hole 68A. However, the outer diameter DM21 may be less than or equal to the second inner diameter DM12 if necessary and/or desired.

The first support member 66 includes a first support wall 66W and a first bushing 70. The first support wall 66W includes a first mounting hole 66B. The first bushing 70 is at least partially provided in the first mounting hole 66B. The first bushing 70 is at least partially provided between the rotating shaft 15 and the first support wall 66W. The first bushing 70 includes the first support opening 66A.

The second support member 68 includes a second support wall 68W and a second bushing 72. The second support wall 68W includes a second mounting hole 68B. The second bushing 72 is at least partially provided in the second mounting hole 68B. The second bushing 72 is at least partially provided between the rotating shaft 15 and the second support wall 68W. The second bushing 72 includes the second support opening 68A. The second mounting hole 68B includes the closed end 68C.

The first attachment hole 66B has a first inner diameter DM13. The second mounting hole 68B has a second inner diameter DM14. The outer diameter DM21 of the restricting member 60 is larger than the first inner diameter DM13 of the first fixing hole 66B. The outer diameter DM21 of the restricting member 60 is larger than the second inner diameter DM14 of the second fixing hole 68B. However, the outer diameter DM21 of the restricting member 60 may be less than or equal to at least one of the first inner diameter DM13 and the second inner diameter DM14 if necessary and/or desired.

The rotating shaft 15 has a shaft outer diameter DM3. The shaft outer diameter DM3 is defined by the outer peripheral surface 62 of the rotating shaft 15. The shaft outer diameter DM3 of the rotating shaft 15 is equal to the first inner diameter DM11 of the first support hole 66A. The restricting member 60 has an inner diameter DM22. The restriction opening 60A has an inner diameter of DM22. In the present embodiment, the inner diameter DM22 is smaller than the shaft outer diameter DM3. However, the inner diameter DM22 can be greater than or equal to the shaft outer diameter DM3 if required and/or desired.

The actuator 10 further includes a biasing member 74. The biasing member 74 includes an opening 74A through which the rotating shaft 15 extends. The restricting member 60 is at least partially provided in the opening 74A by the biasing member 74. In the present embodiment, the restricting member 60 is partially provided in the opening 74A of the biasing member 74. However, the restricting member 60 may also be provided entirely within the opening 74A of the biasing member 74 if necessary and/or desired.

The restricting member 60 is provided between the actuating member 14 and the first supporting part 66 of the base member 12 in a first direction D1 parallel to the pivot axis A1. The biasing member 74 is provided between the operating member 14 and the first supporting part 66 of the base member 12 in the first direction D1. In the present embodiment, the actuator 14 includes a first part 14C and a second part 14D. The second part 14D is spaced apart from the first part 14C in the first direction D1. The intermediate member 22 is provided between the first part 14C and the second part 14D in the first direction D1. The restricting member 60 is provided between the first part 14C and the first supporting part 66 of the base member 12 in the first direction D1. The biasing member 74 is provided between the first part 14C and the first supporting part 66 of the base member 12 in the first direction D1. However, the restricting member 60 may also be provided between the actuating member 14 and the second supporting portion 68 of the base member 12 in the first direction D1 if necessary and/or desired. The restricting member 60 can be between the second part 14D of the actuating member 14 and the second supporting part 68 of the Base member 12 can be provided in the first direction D1 if necessary and / or desired.

As in 2 As can be seen, the biasing member 74 is set up to bias the actuating member 14 so that it pivots relative to the base member 12 about the pivot axis A1 in a pivot direction D4. The biasing member 74 is set up to bias the actuating member 14 to pivot from the rest position P1 1 toward the actuating position P12. The adjusting rod 44 is thus pressed by the biasing member 74 against the intermediate member 22 and the surface 36 of the intermediate member 22 is pressed against the cam follower 34. The biasing force from the biasing member 74 is less than the biasing force of the piston biasing member 19. Thus, the piston 17 is not moved from the home position P21 by the biasing force from the biasing member 74 when the actuating member 14 is not operated by the user.

As in 10 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 for the human-powered vehicle 2 includes an intermediate body 80. The intermediate body 80 is movable relative to the base member 12 along the hole center axis A2 together with the piston 17. The intermediate body 80 is movable relative to the base member 12 along the hole center axis A2 together with the piston 17 in the direction of the starting position P21. The intermediate body 80 is movable relative to the base member 12 together with the piston 17 in the direction of movement D5.

The operating device 10 for the human-powered vehicle 2 includes an adjusting screw 82. The adjusting screw 82 is configured to move the intermediate body 80 relative to the base member 12 along the hole center axis A2 to change the home position P21 of the piston 17 in response to an adjustment operation of the user . The adjusting screw 82 is set up to accommodate the user's adjustment process or to be operated by the user. The user's adjustment process includes, for example, a rotational force that the user exerts on the adjustment screw 82.

The adjusting screw 82 has a screw center axis A5. The screw center axis A5 differs from the hole center axis A2. The adjusting screw 82 is rotatable relative to the base member 12 about the screw center axis A5. In the present embodiment, the screw center axis A5 is not parallel to the hole center axis A2 when viewed in a first direction D1 parallel to the pivot axis A1. The screw center axis A5 is inclined relative to the hole center axis A2, as seen in the first direction D1. The screw center axis A5 is not perpendicular to the hole center axis A2 in the first direction D1. However, the screw center axis A5 can run parallel or perpendicular to the hole center axis A2 in the first direction D1, if necessary and/or desired.

The hole center axis A2 of the hole 16 defines a first area R21 and a second area R22, viewed along the pivot axis A1. The adjusting screw 82 is at least partially provided in the first region R21, viewed along the pivot axis A1. The pivot axis A1 is provided in the second area R22. In the present embodiment, the adjusting screw 82 is fully provided in the first region R21 as viewed along the pivot axis A1. However, the adjusting screw 82 can also be partially provided in the first area R21, viewed along the pivot axis A1, if necessary and/or desired.

The actuator 10 includes a cover 83. The cover 83 is adapted to be attached to the base member 12 to partially cover the adjusting screw 82. The cover 83 can be omitted from the actuator 10 if necessary and/or desired.

As in 10 As can be seen, the intermediate body 80 is movable in response to the rotation of the adjusting screw 82 relative to the base member 12 along the hole center axis A2 between a first end position P41 and a second end position P42. The first end position P41 is defined by the base member 12 and the intermediate body 80. The second end position P42 is defined by the adjusting screw 82 and the cover 83. The starting position P21 of the piston 17 is a first starting position P21A in a first state in which the intermediate body 80 is in the first end position P41. The home position P21 of the base member 12 is a second home position P21B in a second state in which the intermediate body 80 is in the second end position P42. Thus, the home position P21 is changed between the first home position P21A and the second home position P21B by rotating the adjusting screw 82 relative to the base member 12 about the screw center axis A5.

As in 11 can be seen, the screw center axis A5 is offset from the hole center axis A2 in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the pivot axis A1 and the hole center axis A2. The screw center axis A5 is parallel to the hole center axis A2 when viewed in the second direction D2 perpendicular to the pivot axis A1 and to the hole center axis A2. However, if necessary and/or desired, the screw center axis A5 can coincide with the hole center axis A2 in the second direction D2. The screw center axis A5 can be used at If necessary and/or upon request, viewed in the second direction D2, it does not run parallel to the hole center axis A2.

As in 3 As can be seen, the intermediate body 80 can be touched with the coupling structure 21 in order to bring the piston 17 into the starting position P21. The intermediate body 80 can be touched by at least one of the first coupling pin 24, the first coupling member 26 and the second coupling member 28 in order to bring the piston 17 into the starting position P21. In the present embodiment, the intermediate body 80 can be touched by the first coupling member 26 and the second coupling member 28 in order to bring the piston 17 into the starting position P21. However, the intermediate body 80 can be arranged to be able to contact the first coupling pin 24 to position the piston 17 in the home position P21 if necessary and/or desired.

As in 10 As can be seen, the intermediate body 80 includes a contact surface 80A, which can be touched with the adjusting screw 82. The contact surface 80A includes an inclined surface 80B that is inclined with respect to the hole center axis A2. The inclined surface 80B is not perpendicular to the hole center axis A2. The inclined surface 80B is perpendicular to the screw center axis A5. However, the inclined surface 80B can also be perpendicular to the hole center axis A2 if necessary and/or desired. If necessary and/or desired, the inclined surface 80B can also not be perpendicular to the screw center axis A5.

The base member 12 includes an adjusting threaded hole 84. The adjusting screw 82 includes a male threaded portion 82A engaged with the adjusting threaded hole 84. By rotating the adjusting screw 82 relative to the base member 12, the adjusting screw 82 and the intermediate body 80 are moved along the hole center axis A2, whereby the piston 17 is moved relative to the base member 12. Turning the adjusting screw 82 changes the starting position P21 of the piston 17.

The adjusting screw 82 includes a tool engagement part 82B. The tool engaging part 82B is configured to be engaged with a tool such as a hex wrench and a screwdriver. For example, the tool engaging part 82B includes a hexagonal hole 82C. However, the tool engaging portion 82B may include structures other than the hexagonal hole 82C if necessary and/or desired.

As in 12 As can be seen, the intermediate body 80 includes an opening 88. The intermediate body 80 includes a first intermediate part 90 and a second intermediate part 92. The first intermediate part 90 includes the opening 88. The opening 88 has a central axis A6. The center axis A6 of the opening 88 coincides with the hole center axis A2 in a state in which the intermediate body 80 is movably coupled to the base member 12. The second intermediate part 92 protrudes from the first intermediate part 90. The second intermediate part 92 protrudes radially outwards from the first intermediate part 90 with respect to the central axis A6 of the opening 88.

The first intermediate part 90 includes an annular portion 90A, a first protruding portion 90B, and a second protruding portion 90C. The annular portion 90A includes the opening 88. The first protruding portion 90B protrudes from the annular portion 90A along the central axis A6. The second protruding portion 90C protrudes from the annular portion 90A along the central axis A6. The first protruding portion 90B is spaced from the second protruding portion 90C.

The first protruding portion 90B includes a first outer peripheral surface 90B1. The second protruding portion 90C includes a second outer peripheral surface 90C1. The first outer peripheral surface 90B1 extends in the circumferential direction around the central axis A6. The second outer peripheral surface 90C1 extends in the circumferential direction around the central axis A6. The second intermediate part 92 protrudes radially outwards from the first section 90B. The second intermediate part 92 protrudes radially outward from the first outer peripheral surface 90B1 of the first protruding portion 90B.

As in 10 can be seen, the second intermediate part 92 protrudes from the first intermediate part 90 away from the hole center axis A2 and can be touched with the adjusting screw 82. However, the second intermediate portion 92 may be configured to protrude from the first intermediate portion 90 in other directions if necessary and/or desired. The shape of the intermediate body 80 is not limited to the shape shown.

As in 4 As can be seen, the hole center axis A2 extends through the opening 88 of the intermediate body 80. The piston 17 extends through the opening 88 of the intermediate body 80.

As in 4 and 13 As can be seen, the piston 17, the first coupling pin 24, the first coupling member 26 and the second coupling member 28 are provided between the first protruding portion 90B and the second protruding portion 90C provides. However, at least one of the piston 17, the first coupling pin 24, the first coupling member 26 and the second coupling member 28 may be provided outside a space defined between the first protruding portion 90B and the second protruding portion 90C if necessary and/or desired.

As in 4 As can be seen, the base member 12 includes a guide recess 94. The intermediate body 80 is movably provided in the guide recess 94 along the hole center axis A2 of the hole 16. The intermediate body 80 is provided in the guide recess 94 to be movable in the direction of movement D5. The guide recess 94 is provided between the hole 16 and the actuator 14.

As in 13 As can be seen, the guide recess 94 includes a first guide recess 94A. The first intermediate part 90 is at least partially provided in the first guide recess 94A. In the present embodiment, the first intermediate part 90 is fully provided in the first guide recess 94A. However, the first intermediate part 90 may also be partially provided in the first guide recess 94A if required and/or desired.

The guide recess 94 includes a second guide recess 94B. The second intermediate part 92 is at least partially provided in the second guide recess 94B. In the present embodiment, the second intermediate part 92 is partially provided in the second guide recess 94B. However, the second intermediate part 92 can also be provided completely in the second guide recess 94B if necessary and/or desired.

As in 14 As can be seen, the actuator 10 includes a hydraulic container 96. The hydraulic container 96 includes a container housing 98, a membrane 100 and a lid 102. The container housing 98 includes a container recess 104. The membrane 100 is provided in the container recess 104. The membrane 100 consists of an elastic material such as rubber. The lid 102 is attached to the container housing 98 to close an end opening of the container recess 104. The container housing 98 and the membrane 100 form a container chamber 106.

The container housing 98 is coupled to the base member 12. In the present embodiment, the container housing 98 is provided integrally with the base member 12 as a one-piece member. However, the container housing 98 may also be a separate member from the base member 12 if required and/or desired.

The base member 12 includes a connection hole 108. The container chamber 106 is configured to be connected to the hydraulic chamber 18 via the connection hole 108. The container chamber 106 is connected to the hydraulic chamber 18 via the connection hole 108 in an initial state in which the piston 17 is in the initial position P21. In an intermediate state in which the piston 17 is in an intermediate position P23, the container chamber 106 is not connected to the hydraulic chamber 18 via the connection hole 108.

The piston 17 includes a sealing member 110 which delimits the hydraulic chamber 18. The sealing member 110 covers the connection hole 108 in the intermediate state. A defined distance between the starting position P21 and the intermediate position P23 is changed when the starting position P21 is changed between the first starting position P21A and the second starting position P21B by rotating the adjusting screw 82 relative to the base member 12 about the screw center axis A5. This changes a time at which the sealing member 110 covers the connection hole 108, which changes the response of the actuator 10.

As in 10 As can be seen, the adjusting screw 82 is set up to move the intermediate body 80 and the coupling structure 21. The rest position P11 (see e.g 2 ) of the actuator 14 is changed while changing the home position P21 between the first home position P21A and the second home position P21B by rotating the adjusting screw 82 relative to the base member 12 about the screw center axis A5.

In the present application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are to be understood as open-ended terms that specify the presence of the specified features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps, but the presence of others not exclude unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "have", "include" and their derivatives.

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

The ordinal numbers mentioned in the present application such as “first” and “second” are merely identifiers, but have no further meaning, for example for a specific order or similar. Furthermore, for example, the term “first element” itself does not imply the existence of a “second element”, and the term “second element” itself does not imply the existence of a “first element”.

The term "pair of" as used herein may include the configuration in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other, in addition to the configuration in which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures as each other .

The terms “a” (or “one”), “one or more” and “at least one” may be used interchangeably herein.

The phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “one or more” of a desired selection. For example, as used in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of” means “only a single choice” or “both of two choices” when the number of choices is two. For example, as used in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of” means “only a single choice” or “any combination of equal to or more than two choices” when the number of choices is equal to or more than three. For example, the phrase “at least one of A and B” includes (1) A alone, (2), B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes (1 ) A alone, (2), B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C and (7) all A, B and C. In other words, the phrase “at least one of A and B” in this disclosure does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B.”

Finally, terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a reasonable variation of the modified term so that the final result is not materially altered. All numerical values described in this application may be understood to include terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “approximately.”

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

REFERENCE MARKS

10

Actuating device

2

human-powered vehicle

12

Basic link

16

Hole

A2

Hole center axis

14

Actuator

A1

Pivot axis

17

Pistons

80

Intermediate body

82

adjusting screw

A5

Screw center axis

80A

Touch surface

84

Adjustment thread hole

82A

External thread part

88

opening

90

first/first intermediate part

92

second/second intermediate part

94

Guide recess

94A

first guide recess

94B

second guide recess

21

Coupling structure

24

first coupling pin

26

first coupling element

28

second coupling element

22

Intermediate link

30

second coupling pin

32

Guide groove

R21

first area

R22

second area

Claims (22)

An operating device (10) for a human-powered vehicle (2), comprising: a base member (12) having a hole (16) with a hole center axis (A2); an actuator (14) pivotally coupled to the base member (12) about a pivot axis (A1), the actuator (14) being relative to the base member (12) about the pivot axis (A1) in response to user operation can be pivoted from a rest position to an operating position; a piston (17) movably provided in the hole (16), the piston (17) being coupled to the actuator (14) to extend in response to pivotal movement of the actuator (14) relative to the base member (12). to be moved from a starting position to an operated position; an intermediate body (80) movable relative to the base member (12) along the hole center axis (A2) together with the piston (17); and an adjusting screw (82) configured to move the intermediate body (80) relative to the base member (12) along the hole center axis (A2) to change the initial position of the piston (17) in response to an adjustment operation of the user, wherein the adjusting screw (82) has a screw center axis (A5) that is different from the hole center axis (A2). Actuating device (10). Claim 1 , in which the screw center axis (A5) does not run parallel to the hole center axis (A2) when viewed in a first direction parallel to the pivot axis (A1). Actuating device (10). Claim 1 or 2 , in which the intermediate body (80) contains a contact surface (80A) which can be touched with the adjusting screw (82). Actuating device (10). Claim 3 , in which the contact surface (80A) contains a surface that is inclined relative to the hole center axis (A2). Actuating device (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 4 wherein the base member (12) includes an adjusting threaded hole (84), and the adjusting screw (82) includes an externally threaded portion (82A) which engages the adjusting threaded hole (84). Actuating device (10) according to one of Claims 1 until 5 , in which the intermediate body (80) includes an opening (88), and the hole center axis (A2) extends through the opening (88) of the intermediate body (80). Actuating device (10). Claim 6 , in which the piston (17) extends through the opening (88) of the intermediate body (80). Actuating device (10). Claim 6 or 7 , in which the intermediate body (80) includes a first intermediate part (90) and a second intermediate part (92), the first intermediate part (90) includes the opening (88), and the second intermediate part (92) protrudes from the first intermediate part (90) from the hole center axis (A2) and can be touched with the adjusting screw (82). Actuating device (10). Claim 8 , in which the base member (12) includes a guide recess (94), and the intermediate body (80) is movably provided in the guide recess (94) along the hole center axis (A2) of the hole (16). Actuating device (10). Claim 9 , in which the guide recess (94) is provided between the hole (16) and the actuator (14). Actuating device (10). Claim 9 or 10 , in which the guide recess (94) includes a first guide recess (94A), and the first intermediate part (90) is at least partially provided in the first guide recess (94A). Actuating device (10) according to one of Claims 9 until 11 , in which the guide recess (94) includes a second guide recess (94B), and the second intermediate part (92) is at least partially provided in the second guide recess (94B). Actuating device (10) according to one of Claims 1 until 12 , in which the screw center axis (A5) is offset from the hole center axis (A2) in a second direction perpendicular to the pivot axis (A1) and to the hole center axis (A2). Actuating device (10) according to one of Claims 1 until 13 , in which the screw center axis (A5) runs in a second direction perpendicular to the pivot axis (A1) and parallel to the hole center axis (A2) when viewed from the hole center axis (A2). Actuating device (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 14 further comprises a coupling structure (21) which connects the piston (17) and the actuating member (14) in order to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuating member (14) to the piston (17), the intermediate body (80) being connected to the coupling structure (21 ) can be touched to bring the piston (17) into the starting position. Actuating device (10). Claim 15 , in which the coupling structure (21) has a first coupling pin (24), a first coupling member (26), and a two The first coupling member (28) includes, the first coupling member (26) is pivotally coupled to the piston (17) via the first coupling pin (24), the second coupling member (28) is pivotally coupled to the piston (17) via the first coupling pin (24). ) coupled, and the intermediate body (80) can be touched with at least one of the first coupling pin (24), the first coupling member (26) and the second coupling member (28) in order to bring the piston (17) into the starting position. Actuating device (10). Claim 16 , in which the coupling structure (21) includes an intermediate member (22) which is pivotally coupled to the first coupling member (26) and the second coupling member (28), and the intermediate member (22) is pivotable about the pivot axis (A1) to the base member (12) is coupled. Actuating device (10). Claim 17 , in which the intermediate member (22) is set up to transmit the pivoting movement of the actuating member (14) to the piston (17) via the first coupling pin (24), the first coupling member (26) and the second coupling member (28). Actuating device (10). Claim 17 or 18 , in which the coupling structure (21) includes a second coupling pin (30), and the second coupling pin (30) pivotally connects the first coupling member (26), the second coupling member (28) and the intermediate member (22). Actuating device (10). Claim 19 , in which the intermediate member (22) includes a guide groove (32), and the second coupling pin (30) extends through the guide groove (32). Actuating device (10) according to one of Claims 1 until 20 , in which the hole center axis (A2) of the hole (16) defines a first area (R21) and a second area (R22) as seen along the pivot axis (A1), the adjusting screw (82) seen along the pivot axis (A1) at least partially in the first area (R21) is provided, and the pivot axis (A1) is provided in the second area (R22). Actuating device (10) according to one of Claims 1 until 21 , in which the piston (17) is arranged to be pulled from the rest position to the actuating position in response to the pivoting movement of the actuating member (14).

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