DE102022113600A1 - ACTUATING DEVICE FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE - Google Patents

Abstract

An actuator basically includes a base member, an actuator, a biasing member and a resistance member. The base link is arranged to be attached to a handlebar. The actuator is pivotally connected to the base member between a rest position and an actuated position in a first direction about a first pivot axis. The actuating member is connected to the base member about a second pivot axis. The biasing member biases the actuator to the rest position in the first direction. The resistance member prevents the actuator from rotating about the second pivot axis.

Description

BACKGROUND

Technical area

This disclosure relates generally to an actuator for a human-powered vehicle.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION(S).

In general, a human-powered vehicle has one or more components that are operated by a driver who uses one or more actuators to operate one or more of the components. There are many types of actuators. For example, the actuating device can be mechanically, hydraulically and/or electrically connected to the component(s). Typically, a human-powered vehicle has a handlebar with an actuator provided on each side of the handlebar so that the driver's right hand can operate one of the actuators and the driver's left hand can operate the other actuator. Some human-powered vehicles have front and rear actuators and front and rear braking devices. In such a case, one of the operating devices operates one of the transmission devices and one of the braking devices, while the other operating device operates the other transmission device and the other braking device. However, some human-powered vehicles have a single actuator. In such a case, one of the actuating devices only operates one of the braking devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In general, the present disclosure relates to various features of an operating device for a human-powered vehicle. The term “human-powered vehicle,” as used herein, refers to a vehicle capable of being propelled by at least human power to produce propulsion, but does not include a vehicle that uses only a power source other than human power. In particular, a vehicle that exclusively uses an internal combustion engine as a driving force is not included in the human-powered vehicle. A human-powered vehicle is generally a compact, lightweight vehicle that sometimes does not require a driver's license to drive on public roads. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a unicycle and a vehicle with three or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, various types of bicycles such as a mountain bike, a racing bike, a city bike, a cargo bike and a recumbent bike as well as a bicycle with electric assistance (e-bike).

In view of the prior art and in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an actuator essentially comprising a base member, an actuator, a biasing member, and a resistance member. The base link is arranged to be coupled to a handlebar. The actuator is pivotally coupled to the base member between a rest position and an actuated position in a first direction about a first pivot axis. The actuator is coupled to the base member about a second pivot axis. The biasing member biases the actuator to the rest position in the first direction. The resistance member prevents the actuator from pivoting about the second pivot axis.

With the actuation device according to the first aspect, undesirable noises or vibrations in the actuation device can be avoided.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the first aspect, the resistance member is configured to include a leaf spring.

With the actuator according to the second aspect, the movement of the actuator can be easily and stably inhibited using a leaf spring.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the second aspect, the leaf spring is configured to have at least one notch to reduce interference with the actuator.

With the actuator according to the third aspect, it is possible to reduce interference between the leaf spring and the actuator.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the first aspect, the resistance member is configured to be a spring to include a member with a spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m.

With the operating device according to the fourth aspect, the operating member is held firmly and stably relative to the base member.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the fourth aspect, the spring member is configured to include a coil spring.

With the actuator according to the fifth aspect, the movement of the actuator can be easily and stably inhibited using a coil spring.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the fourth aspect, the spring member is configured to include a leaf spring.

With the operating device according to the sixth aspect, the movement of the operating member can be easily and stably inhibited using a leaf spring.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the actuator according to the first aspect further comprises an adapter through which the actuator is coupled to the base member.

In the operating device according to the seventh aspect, the operating member can be easily coupled to the base member using an adapter.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the seventh aspect, the adapter is configured to include a first rotation axis defining the first pivot axis and a second rotation axis defining the second pivot axis.

With the operating device according to the eighth aspect, the adapter can be used to hold an operating member pivotable in two directions.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the eighth aspect, the resistance member is configured to include a leaf spring having a first spring end, a second spring end, and a curved body between the first spring end and the second spring end. The first end of the spring touches the adapter. The second spring end and the curved body contact the actuator. The curved body touches the second axis of rotation or a bearing member attached to the second axis of rotation.

With the operating device according to the ninth aspect, the leaf spring can be easily held in the desired position.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to the ninth aspect, the leaf spring is configured to have a spring force equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m.

In the operating device according to the tenth aspect, the operating member is held firmly and stably relative to the base member.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to any one of the eighth to tenth aspects, the first pivot axis is configured to extend perpendicular to the second pivot axis in a direction perpendicular to the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis .

In the operating device according to the eleventh aspect, the operating device may be configured to have the same configurations as an operating device including both a braking function and a switching function.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects, the resistance member is configured to be arranged around the second rotation axis.

With the actuator according to the twelfth aspect, the resistance member can be easily provided compactly so that the size of the actuator does not increase.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the operating device according to one of the first aspect to the twelfth aspect, the operating member is configured to be configured to operate a braking device while the operating member is in the operating position.

With the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the operating device can be used to operate a braking device.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, the resistance member is configured to be arranged around the second pivot axis.

With the actuator according to the fourteenth aspect, the resistance member can be easily provided compactly so that the size of the actuator does not increase.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the actuator according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, the actuator is configured to include at least one protrusion to prevent pivoting about the second pivot axis by more than a predetermined number of degrees.

With the operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, the relative movement between the operating member and the base member can be restricted easily and reliably.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the operating device according to one of the first aspect to the fifteenth aspect, the base member is configured to have a coupling end capable of being coupled to the handlebar, a free end opposite to the coupling end, and one between the coupling end and the free end Includes handle section provided at the end.

With the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to use the operating device with a falling handlebar.

Other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed actuator will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the actuator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

• 1 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Lenkstangenbereichs eines muskelkraftbetriebenen Fahrzeugs (z.B. eines Fahrrads) mit einer Falllenkstange, die mit einer Betätigungsvorrichtung in Übereinstimmung mit einer ersten Ausführungsform ausgestattet ist.
• 2 ist eine Innenansicht eines linken Abschnitts der Lenkstange und der in 1 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung, wobei sich das Betätigungsglied in einer Ruheposition befindet.
• 3 ist eine Innenansicht des linken Abschnitts der Lenkstange und der in 2 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung, wobei das Betätigungsglied in eine Betätigungsposition zum Bedienen einer Bremsvorrichtung gebracht wurde.
• 4 ist eine Innenansicht der in den 2 und 3 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung, bei der das Basisglied und die Basisabdeckung entlang einer Längsmittelebene weggebrochen sind.
• 5 ist eine Außenansicht der in den 2 bis 4 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung, bei der das Basisglied und die Basisabdeckung entlang einer Längsmittelebene weggebrochen sind.
• 6 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Betätigungsbaugruppe, die das Betätigungsglied und den Adapter der in den 2 bis 5 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung beinhaltet.
• 7 ist eine Teil-Innenansicht der in 6 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe.
• 8 ist eine Teil-Innenansicht der in den 6 und 7 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe.
• 9 ist eine perspektivische Explosionsansicht der in den 6 bis 8 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe.
• 10 ist eine Querschnittsansicht der in den 2 bis 5 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Schnittlinie 10 - 10 der 2.
• 11 ist eine perspektivische Querschnittsansicht der in den 2 bis 5 dargestellten Betätigungsvorrichtung entlang der Schnittlinie 10 - 10 der 2.
• 12 ist eine Querschnittsansicht der in den 6 bis 8 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe entlang der Schnittlinie 12 - 12 der 6.
• 13 ist eine Querschnittsansicht, ähnlich wie 12, der in den 6 bis 8 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe, bei der jedoch die zweite Drehachse und die Buchsen entfernt wurden.
• 14 ist eine Innenansicht ausgewählter Teile der in den 6 bis 8 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe, in der das Betätigungsglied in gestrichelten Linien dargestellt ist.
• 15 ist eine Draufsicht auf die ausgewählten Teile der in 14 dargestellten Betätigungsbaugruppe, in der das Betätigungsglied gestrichelt dargestellt ist.
• 16 ist eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Betätigungsbaugruppe in Übereinstimmung mit einer zweiten Ausführungsform.

Referring to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this original disclosure.

• 1 is a perspective view of a handlebar portion of a human-powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) having a drop handlebar equipped with an operating device in accordance with a first embodiment.
• 2 is an interior view of a left section of the handlebar and the in 1 illustrated actuating device, wherein the actuating member is in a rest position.
• 3 is an interior view of the left section of the handlebar and the in 2 illustrated actuating device, wherein the actuating member was brought into an actuating position for operating a braking device.
• 4 is an interior view of the 2 and 3 illustrated actuating device, in which the base member and the base cover are broken away along a longitudinal center plane.
• 5 is an outside view of the 2 until 4 illustrated actuating device, in which the base member and the base cover are broken away along a longitudinal center plane.
• 6 is a perspective view of an actuator assembly including the actuator and adapter in the 2 until 5 includes the actuating device shown.
• 7 is a partial interior view of the in 6 illustrated actuation assembly.
• 8th is a partial interior view of the 6 and 7 illustrated actuation assembly.
• 9 is an exploded perspective view of the in the 6 until 8th illustrated actuation assembly.
• 10 is a cross-sectional view of the in the 2 until 5 illustrated actuating device along the section line 10 - 10 of the 2 .
• 11 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the in the 2 until 5 illustrated actuating device along the section line 10 - 10 of the 2 .
• 12 is a cross-sectional view of the in the 6 until 8th illustrated actuation assembly along the section line 12 - 12 of the 6 .
• 13 is a cross-sectional view, similar to 12 , which is in the 6 until 8th Actuation assembly shown, but in which the second axis of rotation and the bushings have been removed.
• 14 is an interior view of selected parts of the 6 until 8th illustrated actuation assembly, in which the actuator is shown in dashed lines.
• 15 is a top view of the selected parts of the in 14 illustrated actuation assembly, in which the actuator is shown in dashed lines.
• 16 is a perspective view of an actuation assembly in accordance with a second embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. Those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) will recognize from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for purposes of illustration only and not limitation of the invention in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Referring to 1 First, a human-powered vehicle V is partially shown in accordance with a first embodiment. An actuation device 10 is provided for the human-powered vehicle V. In the first embodiment, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle, and the operating device 10 is a bicycle operating device. As in 1 can be seen, the actuating device 10 is coupled to a handlebar H in the installed state. Here the handlebar H is a lowered handlebar. The actuator 10 is mounted on the downwardly bent portions of the handlebar H. The operating device 10 is a left-side operating device that is operated by the driver's left hand. Here, the human-powered vehicle V also includes an additional actuation device 12. As in 1 can be seen, the additional actuating device 12 is coupled to the handlebar H in the installed state. The additional actuator 12 is mounted on the downwardly bent portions of the handlebar H. The additional operating device 12 is a right-hand operating device that is operated by the driver's right hand.

In the first embodiment, the actuator 10 is configured to perform only a braking operation, while the additional actuator 12 is configured to perform both a braking operation and a shift operation. Thus, the actuating device 10 is set up as a bicycle brake actuating device that only has a braking function, while the additional actuating device 12 is set up as a road brake or road brake/bralt lever (i.e. an actuating device that has both a switching function and a braking function). However, as will be explained later, the actuator 10 is configured such that a switching unit can be added so that the actuator 10 can perform a switching function and a braking function.

In the case of the human-powered vehicle V, as shown in the 2 and 3 is shown schematically, the actuating device 10 is operatively coupled via a hydraulic hose H1 to a front hydraulic braking device BC1, while the additional actuating device 12 is operatively coupled to a rear hydraulic braking device via a hydraulic hose H2 and to a rear switching unit via a conventional shift cable C1 (e.g. a Bowden cable). is effectively coupled. Of course, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the actuator 10 is not limited to being adapted to be used with a hydraulic braking device. Rather, the actuating device 10 can be used in the broadest sense to operate other components of the human-powered vehicle V. The additional actuator 12 is a conventional actuator. Therefore, the additional actuation device 12 will not be discussed further.

Referring to the 2 until 5 The setup of the actuating device 10 will now be explained in more detail. Like in the 2 until 5 As can be seen, the actuating device 10 essentially comprises a base member 14 and an actuating member 16. The actuating device 10 further comprises an adapter 18, through which the actuating member 16 is coupled to the base member 14. As explained later, the actuator 16 is between a rest position ( 2 ) and an operating position ( 3 ) pivotally coupled to the base member 14 in a first direction R1 about a first pivot axis A1. The actuator 16 is set up to actuate the braking device BC1 while the actuator 16 is in the actuating position (see 3 ). In addition, the actuating member 16 is coupled to the base member 14 about a second pivot axis A2. The first pivot axis A1 extends perpendicular to the second pivot axis A2, viewed in a direction perpendicular to the first pivot axis A1 and to the second pivot axis A2. In its current configuration, however, the actuating member 16 in the actuating device 10 is set up not to operate or only to a very small extent to be able to pivot the second pivot axis A1.

The base member 14 is arranged to be coupled to the handlebar H. In particular, the base member 14 includes a mounting part 20 configured to be mounted on the bicycle handlebar H. In the first embodiment, the base member 14 is configured to be mounted on a left side of the handlebar H. Alternatively, the base member 14 is arranged to be mounted on a right side of the handlebar H if necessary and/or desired. When the actuator 10 is used as an actuator for a racing bicycle, riders sometimes grasp the base member 14 and lean on the base member 14 while riding.

Here the base member 14 is preferably made of plastic or resin. For example, the base member 14 is made of a hard plastic that can be reinforced with fibers as needed and/or desired. The plastic of the base member 14 is a rigid material suitable for a driver to grip and lean on while driving. The resin of the base member 14 is also light, so that the overall weight of the actuator 10 can be minimized. However, the base member 14 can also be made from other suitable materials as needed and/or desired.

It is desirable that the driver's hand have a comfortable feeling while grasping the base member 14. Therefore, the actuating device 10 further comprises a base cover 22 which at least partially covers the base member 14. The base cover 22 is therefore often referred to as a handle cover because a driver sometimes holds the base member 14 in an area of the base cover 22 while driving. In this case, the base cover 22 is made of an elastomeric material. For example, the base cover 22 is made of a flexible rubber material. The base cover 22 is designed to be tubular, so that the base cover 22 is stretched over the base member 14. In other words, the base cover 22 is an elastic piece such as rubber that partially covers the outer surface of the base member 14.

The base member 14 includes a coupling end 14a, a free end 14b and a handle portion 14c. The coupling end 14a is set up to be coupled to the handlebar H. The coupling end 14a can also be referred to as the proximal end of the section of the base member 14. The free end 14b lies opposite the coupling end 14a. The free end 14b may also be referred to as the distal end of the base member 14 portion. The handle portion 14c is provided between the coupling end 14a and the free end 14b. The base member 14 also includes a knob portion 14d provided at the free end 14b. In other words, the knob portion 14d is a part of the free end 14b. The base member 14 is a one-piece member including the coupling end 14a, the free end 14b, the handle portion 14c and the knob portion 14d. Here, the base cover 22 covers the handle portion 14c of the base member 14 and also partially covers the knob portion 14d of the base member 14. In this way, the base cover 22 provides padding for the handle portion 14c of the base member 14 and also provides an attractive appearance of the base member 14 .

The mounting part 20 is attached to the base member 14 in such a way that the mounting part 20 is arranged in a handlebar receptacle 14a1 of the coupling end 14a. Here, the mounting part 20 includes a clamping band 22A and a fastening element 22B (e.g. a nut and a screw) for clamping the handlebar H. Since the mounting part 20 can be any suitable mounting structure, the mounting part 20 is here not further explained or shown.

Like in the 4 and 5 can be seen, the base member 14 includes an interior 24, in which a simulated switching body 26 is provided, which essentially fills the interior 24. Here, the simulated switching body 26 is provided to the base member 14, since a switching function for the actuating device 10 is not required. The simulated switching body 26 is set up to be arranged immovably in the interior 24 of the base member 14. Basically, the simulated switching body 26 is provided in the interior 24 of the base member 14 when a switching function for the actuating device 10 is not required. The simulated switching body 26 is thus set up to be arranged in the interior 24 of the base member 14 in order to at least partially fill the interior 24 of the base member 14. In this way, the simulated switching body 26 can give the base member 14 additional rigidity in the area of the handle section 14c when an actuation unit (eg a switching unit) is not located in the interior 24.

As already mentioned, the actuator 16 is between the rest position ( 2 ) and the operating position ( 3 ) pivotally coupled to the base member 14 in the first direction R1 about the first pivot axis A. By pivoting the actuator 16 from the rest position ( 2 ) towards the actuation position ( 3 ) the braking process is carried out. The term “resting position” used here refers to one State in which a moving part (e.g. the actuator 16) remains stationary without the intervention of a user or other external force (e.g. holding the actuator 16) to produce a state corresponding to the rest position. Therefore, the term “resting position” can also be referred to as a non-active position. The terms “actuated position” and “actuated position” used herein refer to a position in which the moving part has been moved by the user from a rest position.

Here, the actuator 10 further includes a cover 28. The cover 28 is attached to the base member 14 to partially define the interior space 24 between the cover 28 and the base member 14. In other words: The simulated switching body 26 is arranged in the interior 24 between the cover 28 and the base member 14. The cover 28 makes it easier to install the simulated switching body 26 into the interior 24 and to remove the simulated switching body 26 from the interior 24. The cover 28 makes it easier to replace the simulated switching body 26 with a switching unit when the actuating device 10 is expanded to include a switching function shall be.

Here the cover 28 is attached to the base member 14 with at least one screw, as shown in 5 you can see. Of course, other types of fasteners may be used to secure the cover 28 to the base member 14 if necessary and/or desired. The base cover 22 also lies at least partially over the base cover 22 to exert further holding force on the cover 28. The cover 28 can be made from any suitable material. For example, the cover 28 may be made of the same resin material as the base member 14. Alternatively, the cover 28 may be made of a different material than the base member 14, such as a hard rubber material.

The adapter 18 is connected to the base member 14 and the actuator 16 is connected to the adapter 18. In particular, the adapter 18 includes a first axis of rotation 30, which defines the first pivot axis A1, and a second axis of rotation 32, which defines the second pivot axis A2. The first axis of rotation 30 is provided with a bearing member 34 provided at each end. Similarly, the second axis of rotation 32 is provided with a bearing member 36 at each end. The second pivot axis 32 may be considered a non-functional axis and the second pivot axis A2 may be a non-functional axis in that the actuator 16 is configured to either not pivot on the second pivot axis 32 or to have a very limited range of motion. The adapter 18 may include an adapter cover 18a, as shown in 4 and 5 to see.

Like in the 2 and 3 can be seen, the actuator 16 has the shape of an operating lever. In the first embodiment, the actuator 16 is a brake lever. The operating member 16 includes a user-operable portion 16a (a lever portion) and a fixing portion 16b. As in 6 As can be seen, the second axis of rotation 32 couples the actuator 16 to the adapter 18. The second axis of rotation 32 includes a section 32a with a thread into which a fastening nut 38 is screwed. The second axis of rotation 32 extends through openings in the support sections 18a and 18b of the adapter 18, so that the fastening section 16b of the actuator 16 is supported on the second axis of rotation 32 between the support sections 18a and 18b of the adapter 18.

The actuator 16 is either configured so that it cannot pivot about the second axis of rotation 32 relative to the adapter 18 in a lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle V, or it can only pivot to a limited extent in the lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle V. Preferably, the actuator 16 is set up so that it does not pivot about the second axis of rotation 32 relative to the adapter 18 in a lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle. However, due to manufacturing tolerances, it is possible that the actuator 16 is capable of pivoting a limited amount in the lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle V. In particular, the actuator 16 includes at least one projection configured to prevent pivoting about the second pivot axis A2 by more than a predetermined number of degrees. For example, the predetermined number of degrees of movement is preferably ten or less.

Here, the portion 16b of the actuator 16 includes a first projection 16b1 configured to contact the adapter 18 to limit the movement of the human-powered vehicle V in a lateral outward direction. The portion 16b of the actuator 16 further includes a second projection 16b2 and a third projection 16b3 configured to contact the adapter 18 and limit the inward movement of the human-powered vehicle V. For example, the second projection 16b2 and the third projection 16b3 prevent the actuator 16 from pivoting more than ten degrees about the second pivot axis A2.

Here, the actuating device 10 further comprises a biasing member 40. The biasing member 40 biases the actuation member 16 into the rest position in the first direction R1. Like in the 4 and 5 As can be seen, the biasing member 40 is provided between the base member 14 and the adapter 18 to bias the actuator 16 to the rest position ( 2 and 4 until 8th ). In other words, the biasing member 40 is provided on the first rotation axis 30 to exert a biasing force on the actuator 16 and the adapter 18 so that the actuator 16 and the adapter 18 return to the rest position after a driver releases the actuator 16 from the has released the actuation position. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 40 is a pair of torsion springs, each of which has a coiled portion disposed on the first rotation axis 30, a first end portion suspended on a support pin of the base member 14, and a second end portion arranged to pass over a guide pin of a hydraulic cylinder unit HCU to exert a preload force on the adapter 18.

Here too, the actuating device 10 further comprises a resistance member 42. As in the 9 until 13 As can be seen, the resistance member 42 is provided between the actuator 16 and the adapter 18. The resistance member 42 is arranged around the second pivot axis A2. In particular, the resistance member 42 is arranged around the second axis of rotation 32. The resistance member 42 prevents the actuator 16 from rotating about the second pivot axis A2. In other words, the resistance member 42 prevents a pivoting movement of the actuator relative to the adapter 18 in the lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle V. Due to manufacturing tolerances, the first actuator 16b1, the second actuator 16b2 and the third actuator 16b3 can be in a rest position at a short distance from the adapter 18 be arranged. The resistance member 42 presses the actuating member 16 against the adapter 18 in the rest position. If the resistance member 42 were omitted, the actuating member 16 could move in the range of the distances.

The resistance member 42 includes a spring member 44 with a spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m. The spring member 44 includes a leaf spring. In other words, the resistance member 42 includes a leaf spring. Therefore, the resistance member 42 is also referred to as either a spring member 44 or a leaf spring 44. Preferably, the spring member 44 (ie, the leaf spring) is a metallic member. The leaf spring 44 is installed in a preloaded state between the actuator 16 and the adapter 18. The leaf spring 44 pushes the actuator 16 outward in the lateral direction of the human-powered vehicle V relative to the adapter 18. As in 8th can be seen, the actuating member 16 has a stop 46 here, which in the rest position touches a stop member 46 of the adapter 18 due to the spring force of the leaf spring 44. The stop 46 here is a separate member that is pressed into a hole in the actuating member 16. In this way, the actuator 16 and the abutment 46 can be made from different materials. For example, the actuator 16 can be made of a fiber-reinforced plastic and the abutment 46 can be made of a metallic material. Here the stop member 46 is mounted on the adapter 18 in an adjustable manner. For example, the stop member 46 includes an external thread that is screwed into an internally threaded hole 50 of the adapter 18.

The leaf spring 44 has a first spring end 44a, a second spring end 44b and a curved body 44c. The curved body 44c is located between the first spring end 44a and the second spring end 44b. The first spring end 44a touches the adapter 18. As in 10 can be seen, the second spring end 44b and the curved body 44c touch the actuating member 16. In addition, the curved body 44c touches the second axis of rotation 32 or the bearing member 36 attached to the second axis of rotation 32. Here the curved body 44c touches both bearing members 36. Preferably the leaf spring 44 has at least one notch 42d to reduce interference with the actuator 16. In the first embodiment, the leaf spring 44 has two notches 42d. The notches 42d are formed along the curved body 44c of the leaf spring 44. In the first embodiment, the second spring end 44b is narrower than the first spring end 44a to further reduce engagement with the actuator 16. Preferably, the leaf spring 44 has a spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m. It is even better if the spring force of the leaf spring 44 is equal to or greater than 0.7 N*m. In this way, any movement of the actuator 16 on the second axis of rotation 32 is prevented.

The term "spring force" as used herein refers to a torque required to initiate movement of the actuator 16 with respect to the adapter 18 about the second axis of rotation 32 when the leaf spring 44 is grouped in a conventional actuator is, in which the second projection 16b2 and the third projection 16b3 are omitted to enable rotational movement on the second rotation axis 32.

Referring to the 4 and 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder unit HCU is set up to supply the braking device BC1 with pressurized hydraulic fluid in response to the movement of the actuating member 16 from the rest position to the operating position. Alternatively, the hydraulic cylinder unit HCU may be omitted and a conventional control cable connected to the adapter 18 to operate the braking device BC1. Alternatively, the hydraulic cylinder unit HCU can also be replaced by an electrical switch for operating the braking device BC 1. Since hydraulic units are well known, the hydraulic cylinder unit HCU will not be discussed further for the sake of brevity.

Basically, the actuating member 16, the adapter 18, the first axis of rotation 30, the second axis of rotation 32, the bearing members 34, the bearing members 36, the fastening nut 38, the biasing member 40 and the leaf spring 44 form an actuating assembly 52.

Referring to 16 1, an actuation assembly 152 is shown in accordance with a second embodiment. The only difference between the actuation assembly 52 and the actuation assembly 152 is that the actuation assembly 152 uses a resistance member 142 instead of the resistance member 42. In particular, the resistance member 142 here includes a spring member 144 with a spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m. More specifically, the spring member 144 includes a coil spring. It is even more preferred if the spring member 144 (the coil spring) has a spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.7 N*m. In this way, any movement of the actuator 16 on the second axis of rotation 32 is prevented.

In order to understand the scope of the present invention, 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 do not exclude the presence of other unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings such as the terms “including”, “with” and their derivatives. Also, the terms "part", "section", "proportion", "member" or "element" when used in the singular may have the double meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise specified.

As used herein, the following directional terms refer to “frame-facing side,” “non-frame-facing side,” “forward,” “backward,” “front,” “rear,” “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom.” ", "up", "down", "up", "down", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "vertical" and "transverse" and all other similar directional terms refer to the directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g . E.g., bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with the actuation device. Accordingly, these directional terms, as used to describe the actuator, are to be interpreted with respect to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface that is equipped with the actuator. The terms "left" and "right" are used to mean "right" when referring to the rear of the human-powered vehicle (e.g. bicycle) when viewed from the right side, and "left" when referring to the Viewed from the left side, it refers to the back of the human-powered vehicle (e.g. bicycle).

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 greater than three. Additionally, as used in this disclosure, the term “and/or” means “either one or both of.”

It is to be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, such components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component mentioned above could be referred to as a second component and vice versa, without departing from the teaching of the present invention.

The term "attached" or "attached" as used herein includes configurations in which one element is directly attached to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element; configurations, in in which the element is indirectly attached to the other element by attaching the element to the intermediate member or members which in turn are attached to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integrated with another element, that is, one element is essentially part of the other element. This definition also applies to words with similar meaning, such as "connected", "connected", "coupled", "mounted", "glued", "attached" and their derivatives. Finally, terms such as "substantially,""approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a variation of the modified term so that the final result is not materially altered.

Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless expressly stated otherwise, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and/or desired, so long as the changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, components that are directly connected or touching each other may be provided with intermediate structures as long as these do not significantly affect their intended function. The functions of one element can be performed by two elements and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment. It is not necessary that all advantages be present at the same time in a particular embodiment. Any feature that stands out from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of applicant's further inventions, which also includes the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by that feature(s). . The foregoing descriptions of embodiments according to the present invention are therefore provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

REFERENCE MARKS

(10)

Actuating device

(V)

human-powered vehicle

(14)

Basic link

(H)

Handlebar

(16)

Actuator

(A1)

first pivot axis

(A2)

second pivot axis

(40)

tendon

(42; 142)

resistance element

(44; 144)

spring link

(18)

adapter

(30)

first axis of rotation

(32)

second axis of rotation

(44a)

first spring end

(44b)

second spring end

(44c)

curved body

(14a)

coupling end

(14b)

free ending

(14c)

Handle section

Claims (16)

Actuating device for a human-powered vehicle, the actuating device comprising: a base member adapted to be coupled to a handlebar; an actuator pivotally coupled to the base member between a rest position and an actuated position in a first direction about a first pivot axis and coupled to the base member about a second pivot axis; a biasing member that biases the actuator toward the rest position in the first direction; and a resistance member which prevents the actuator from pivoting about the second pivot axis. Actuating device after Claim 1 , in which the resistance element contains a leaf spring. Actuating device after Claim 2 , in which the leaf spring has at least one notch to reduce interference with the actuator. Actuating device after Claim 1 , in which the resistance element is a spring element with a Includes spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m. Actuating device after Claim 4 , in which the spring member contains a spiral spring. Actuating device after Claim 4 , in which the spring member contains a leaf spring. Actuating device after Claim 1 , further comprising: an adapter through which the actuator is coupled to the base member. Actuating device after Claim 7 , in which the adapter includes: a first axis of rotation that defines the first pivot axis, and a second axis of rotation that defines the second pivot axis. Actuating device after Claim 8 , wherein the resistance member includes a leaf spring having a first spring end, a second spring end and a curved body disposed between the first spring end and the second spring end; the first end of the spring touches the adapter; the second spring end and the curved body contact the actuator; and the curved body contacts the second pivot axis or a bearing member attached to the second pivot axis. Actuating device after Claim 9 , in which the leaf spring has a spring force that is equal to or greater than 0.4 N*m. Actuating device according to one of Claims 8 until 10 , in which the first pivot axis extends perpendicular to the second pivot axis, viewed in a direction that is perpendicular to the first pivot axis and to the second pivot axis. Actuating device according to one of the Claims 8 until 11 , in which the resistance member is arranged around the second pivot axis. Actuating device according to one of the Claims 1 until 12 , in which the actuator is set up to actuate a braking device while the actuator is in the actuating position. Actuating device according to one of Claims 1 until 13 , in which the resistance member is arranged around the second pivot axis. Actuating device according to one of Claims 1 until 14 , wherein the actuator includes at least one projection configured to prevent pivoting about the second pivot axis by more than a predetermined number of degrees. Actuating device according to one of Claims 1 until 15 , wherein the base member includes: a coupling end (14a) adapted to be coupled to the handlebar, a free end (14b) opposite the coupling end (14a), and a handle portion (14c) between the coupling end and the free end is provided.

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