TW202140324A - Bicycle gearbox having segmented sprockets - Google Patents

Abstract

A gearbox may include a drive spindle and several interconnected gear clusters arranged in a housing. A first of the gear clusters is coaxially fastened to the spindle, and has an outboard gear and an inboard gear. The first gear cluster drives a chain to operate one or more of the other gear clusters, and the inboard gear is physically divided into a plurality of segments. A shifting system for the gearbox includes an actuator configured to urge the segments of the inboard gear of the first gear cluster into and out of the plane of the belt via a toggle and slider mechanism, such that a gear ratio of the gearbox is changeable without displacing the belt out of the plane.

Description

Bicycle gearbox with segmented sprocket

The present invention relates to a system and method for shifting gears on bicycles or other geared vehicles. More specifically, the present invention relates to gearboxes.

The bicycle transmission system transmits its power from the rider of the bicycle to the bicycle wheel. The transmission system typically includes two pedals attached to respective crank arms on opposite sides of the bicycle frame. The pedal is rotatably coupled to a gear system, which typically has a plurality of different gear ratios and a mechanism for shifting gears to achieve the desired gear ratio. On bicycles with gearboxes, the gear system is at least partially enclosed in a gearbox arranged on and/or incorporated into the bicycle frame. The advantage of the gearbox is that the gear system in the box can be protected from exposure to dust and moisture, and from damaging impacts. Another advantage is that the gearbox is suitable for mounting on the bicycle frame adjacent to the crank arm, where the weight of the gearbox will typically have an impact on bicycle handling when the gearbox is installed elsewhere (for example, away from the center of gravity of the bicycle). , The weight of the gearbox has a low impact on the handling of the bicycle. Therefore, other advancements in bicycle gearbox technology are needed.

The present invention provides a system, device and method related to a bicycle gearbox with a segmented sprocket and a toggle lever shifting mechanism.

The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently in various specific examples of the present invention, or can be combined in other specific examples. Additional details of these features, functions, and advantages can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

Various aspects and examples of the gearbox with the segmented sprocket cluster and the corresponding shift system and related methods are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the gearbox and/or its individual components according to the teachings of the present invention may contain at least one of the structures, components, functionality, and/or changes described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein. In addition, unless specifically excluded, the program steps, structures, components, functionality, and/or changes described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein in conjunction with the teachings of the present invention may be included in other similar devices and methods, including Interchangeable among the specific examples disclosed. The following description of various examples is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the present invention, its application or use in any way. In addition, the advantages provided by the examples and specific examples described below are illustrative in nature, and Not all examples and specific examples provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

This embodiment includes the following chapters, which directly follow the following: (1) definition; (2) overview; (3) examples, components, and alternatives; (4) advantages, features, and benefits; and (5) conclusions. The examples, components, and alternatives chapters are further divided into sub-sections, and each of them is identified accordingly. definition

"Include", "include" and "have" (and their conjugations) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited, and are open-ended terms, and are not intended to exclude additional unlisted elements or method steps .

Terms such as "first", "second" and "third" are used to distinguish or identify different members of the group or similar ones, and are not intended to show order or numerical restrictions.

"AKA" means "also known as" and can be used to indicate an alternative or corresponding term for one or more given elements.

"Elongated" or "slender" refers to an object or aperture that has a length greater than one of its own width, but the width does not have to be uniform. For example, the elongated slot can be oval or stadium-shaped, and the elongated candlestick can have a height greater than its decreasing diameter. As a negative example, a round aperture will not be considered an elongated aperture.

The terms "inner", "outer", "forward" and "rear" (and the like) are intended to be understood in the context of the system described herein that can be installed or otherwise attached to the subject vehicle above. For example, "outside" can indicate a relative position that is farther from the centerline of the vehicle in the lateral direction, or a direction away from the centerline of the vehicle. Conversely, "inside" can indicate a direction toward the centerline, or a relative position closer to the centerline. Similarly, "forward" means toward the front part of the vehicle, and "rear" means toward the rear of the vehicle. In the absence of the main vehicle, the same direction term can be used as if the vehicle exists. For example, even when viewed in isolation, a component can still have a "forward" edge, based on the fact that the component will install the edge in question in a direction facing the front part of the main vehicle.

"Coupled" means permanently or releasably connected, whether directly or indirectly via intervening components.

"Resilient" describes a material or structure that is constructed to respond to normal operating loads (for example, when compressed) by elastically deforming and returning to an original shape or position when unloaded.

"Rigid" describes a material or structure that is constructed to be rigid, indestructible, or substantially lacking flexibility under normal operating conditions.

"Resilient" describes a material or structure that is constructed to spontaneously return to its previous shape after being stretched or expanded.

Directional terms such as "up", "down", "vertical", "horizontal" and the like should be understood in the context of the specific object in question. For example, objects can be oriented around defined X, Y, and Z axes. In these examples, the X-Y plane will define the horizontal, where upward warp is defined as the positive Z direction and downward warp as the negative Z direction.

"Controller" or "electronic controller" includes processing logic programmed with instructions to implement control functions based on control elements. For example, the electronic controller can be configured to receive an input signal, compare the input signal with a selected control value or set point value, and determine whether to a control element (for example, a motor or an actuator) based on the comparison An output signal to provide corrective action. In another example, the electronic controller can be constructed to interface between the main device (eg, desktop computer, mainframe computer, etc.) and peripheral devices (eg, memory device, input/output device, etc.) to control And/or monitor the input and output signals from peripheral devices.

"Provide" in the context of a method may include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, manufacturing, producing, processing, pre-processing, and/or the like, so that the provided object or material is in a state for other steps to be implemented and configuration. Overview

Generally speaking, the gearbox according to the aspect of the teachings of the present invention includes a gear set (also referred to as a rear gear plate, a cassette and/ Or sprocket cluster), wherein one or more of the gear sets have segmented sprocket wheels. The shifter is constructed to move the sprocket section relative to a plane defined by the chain or belt associated with that sprocket. The housing can be mounted on a bicycle or other suitable vehicle and/or integrated with the bicycle or other suitable vehicle. Each gear set includes at least one sprocket, also called a gear. At least one of the gear sets is mounted on a main shaft (also called a shaft or shaft) that is coupled to the bicycle crank arm (also called a crank) and/or a drive motor at either end, and at least one of the gear sets is other Installed on the countershaft. A chain, a conveyor belt, and/or any other suitable coupling device couples the gear set on the main shaft to the gear set on the counter shaft, so that the rotation of one of the gear sets causes the other gear sets to rotate. Each chain or belt can selectively engage individual sprockets in the cluster. The combination of sprockets coupled to each chain or belt at a given moment determines the current gear ratio of the gearbox.

The gear ratio of the gearbox may include the sequential shifting of the selected segment gear segments so that the chain or belt shifts to different sprockets or gears of the gear set without shifting the chain or belt in the lateral direction. The repositioning of the gear section is performed at a separate time when each section is unloaded (ie, getting rid of the chain/belt), so that the gear shift can be performed under load without negative results. If necessary, multiple segment sprockets of the gearbox can be shifted simultaneously in this way. Examples, components and alternatives

The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative bicycle gearboxes and related systems and/or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. Each chapter may include one or more distinct specific examples or examples, and/or context or related information, functions, and/or structures. A. Schematic diagram of the gearbox of the present invention

As shown schematically in Figure 1, this section describes an illustrative gearbox 100 with a segmented gear set. The gearbox 100 includes a housing 102 having a gear system disposed therein. The gear system includes a plurality of (for example, four) gear sets configured as shown in FIG. 1, namely a first gear set 108, a second gear set 114, a third gear set 118 and a fourth gear set 122. Each gear set has a plurality of individual gears labeled 1 to N. Each gear of the cluster has a plurality of individual gear segments labeled 1 to M. In some examples, each gear of each gear set has the same number of gear segments. In some examples, the number of segments can vary from gear to gear.

Each gear that includes a gear segment is called a segmented gear. Each gear segment is shaped as an annular sector. In some examples, the segmented gear contains four gear segments. The selected gears of each gear set are coupled to the chain (that is, meshed with the chain) by teeth arranged around its periphery. In some examples, two or more gear sets may mesh with the same chain. Each gear section of the segmented gear can move relative to the chain. The movement of the gear section is used to shift gears between gear ratios. In some examples, each gear segment can pivot about an articulation placed at the end of the shaft of the segment. In some examples, each gear segment can be linearly shifted (eg, axially translated or shifted).

The transmission 100 includes an associated shift system 110. The shifting system 110 is constructed to individually move the segment gears into and out of engagement with the respective chains. The shift system 110 may be coupled to a controller 126 that is configured to send a command signal to one or more actuators of the shift system to change the gear ratio. For example, the controller 126 may send a signal to the shift system to increase the gear ratio. The gear shifting is described further in the following sections.

In principle, the gearbox 100 can be operated with any gear ratio achievable by the installed rear shift disc. However, in some cases, the controller 126 is constructed to allow the rider to select only a subset of gear ratios. For example, in some cases two or more different combinations of gears can produce the same or nearly the same gear ratio. It can be useless and confusing to provide a vehicle operator with a collection of selectable gear combinations that include different gear combinations that result in substantially the same gear ratio. Therefore, the shift system 110 and/or the controller 126 may be constructed to enable selection of only one of the redundant gear combinations.

The gearbox 100 includes a crank 104 disposed outside the housing 102 and coupled to the main shaft 106. The main shaft 106 passes through the housing 102 to engage the first gear set 108, so that the rotation of the crank causes the rotation of the main shaft, which in turn causes the rotation of the first gear set.

The first gear set 108 is coupled to the first chain 112 such that the rotation of the gear set causes the chain to rotate. The first chain 112 may be oriented orthogonally with respect to the main shaft 106.

The first chain 112 is coupled to the second gear set 114, thereby transmitting power from the cluster 108 to the cluster 114. The second gear set 114 is coupled to the third gear set 118 via the countershaft 116. Therefore, the crankshaft and the first gear set rotating chain 112 are used to drive the rotation of the second gear set 114, and this rotation causes the countershaft 116 and the third gear set 118 to rotate. The secondary shaft is generally parallel to and spaced from the main shaft 106. The third gear set 118 is coupled to the second chain 120 that is additionally coupled to the fourth gear set 122 such that the rotation of the third gear set 118 causes the fourth gear set 122 to rotate.

The fourth gear set 122 is coupled to the outer link 124 via the output shaft 123 passing through the housing 102 (that is, is disposed outside the housing 102). The output shaft 123 is coaxial with the main shaft 106 so that the main shaft 106 passes through the center of the output shaft 123. The main shaft 106 and the output shaft 123 are constructed to rotate independently with respect to each other. The link 124 is coupled to the output system 130 (for example, the rear wheel) via the third chain 128.

In some examples, more or fewer gear sets and/or countershafts may be included. For example, the two cluster versions of the gearbox 100 may include a first gear set 108 on the main shaft 106, a chain 112, and a second gear set 114 on the counter shaft 116. In this example, the gear sets 118 and 122 are not included, and the drive output is via a link 124' coupled to the countershaft 116' as shown in the dashed outline in FIG. 1. In other examples, additional gear sets can be inserted into the gear sets shown in FIG. 1 to provide additional gear ratios and combinations. B. First illustrative gearbox

This section describes the gearbox 200, which is an example of the gearbox 100 described above. Refer to Figure 2 to Figure 27.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the gearbox 200 includes a housing 202. The housing contains at least part of the gear system, as described above. An illustrative gear system for the gearbox 200 is described further below. The main shaft 206 extends through the housing. The first crank arm 204 and the second crank arm (not shown in the figure) are coupled to respective ends of the main shaft 206. The chain link 224 couples the gearbox 200 to the wheels (for example, rear wheels) via an external drive chain or belt (not shown in the figure).

FIG. 4 is a top view of the gearbox 200. The gearbox 200 includes a countershaft 216 and four gear sets: a first (input) gear set 208 (also called cluster 1) arranged on the main shaft 206; a second gear set 214 (also called cluster 1) arranged on the countershaft 216 As cluster 2); the third gear set 218 (also called cluster 3) arranged on the countershaft 216; and the fourth gear set on the output shaft 223 (also called the driven shaft) (an example of the output shaft 123) Gear set 222 (also called cluster 4). The first gear set 208 is coupled to the second gear set 214 via the first chain 212. Similarly, the third gear set 218 is coupled to the fourth gear set 222 through the second chain 220.

Therefore, the rotation of the main shaft 206 (for example, by operating a cyclist attached to a pedal attached to the crank arm and/or by a motor) transmits power from the first gear set 208 to the second gear set 214 via the first chain 212 , And transmitted from the second gear set to the third gear set 218 via the countershaft. The second chain 220 transmits power from the third gear set 218 to the fourth gear set 222, and transmits power from the fourth gear set to the chain ring 224 via the output shaft 223, and/or to another suitable system.

Each of the gear sets may include a plurality of gears, one or more of the plurality of gears having a plurality of gear segments. Gears that include gear segments can be called segmented gears. Each gear segment can be shaped as an annular sector. In one example, each segmented gear includes four gear segments. Each gear segment is rotatably attached to a hinge located near the center of the segment gear. One or more gear sets may have unsegmented sprockets with a smaller diameter than the respective segment gears. Each gear segment can be attached to a pin. Each gear segment pivots (or folds) in a direction transverse to the gear plane. In other words, each gear segment can be switched between a coplanar position and a pivoted (also referred to as folded) position. This configuration allows the segmented gears to be in a coplanar configuration (that is, in which all segments are aligned to form a substantially coplanar gear) and a pivoting (also known as conical) configuration (that is, Where all gear segments are in the same direction away from the plane formed in the coplanar configuration and are skewed (for example, stepwise)

As shown in Figure 4, the shift system 210 is at least partially disposed within the gearbox in a generally central position. The shift system 210 is an example of the shift system 110 described above.

The shift system 210 includes a shift lever 248 attached to a shift wedge 250 that is configured to selectively and mechanically interface with portions of the gear section. Although the shift lever is depicted and described herein, any suitable actuator constructed to rotate the shift wedge, such as a flexible cable or the like, can be used, whether manual or electromechanical (for example, by an electronic controller )operate. For the purpose of understanding (for example, in the case where the controller will actuate the shifting system), the manual handle at the upper end of the shift lever depicted in Figure 3 and elsewhere is shown.

The shift wedge 250 includes a pair of slopes referred to herein as the first sloped surface 252 and the second sloped surface 254 (ie, the first slope and the second slope), which are generally constructed such that the plane of each surface extends Intersect at an angle (for example, an acute angle). The rotation of the shift lever 248 simultaneously rotates the shift wedge 250, thereby changing the orientation of the shift wedge 250 (and the first and second surfaces/slope).

In the current example, the shift system 210 has a shift lever and shift wedge for each gear set. In some examples, two or more gear sets may share a shift wedge. For example, the third gear set 218 and the fourth gear set 222 may share the same shift wedge. Figures 25 and 26 depict a system 210 that shifts the gear ratio of the gearbox 200 by pivoting segments of the segmented gear into or out of alignment with the chain.

Figures 5 to 8 depict a part of the shifting system to facilitate its following description. Each of Figures 5 to 8 depicts a single gear section (which rotates into the page in a generally horizontal plane), and is constructed to cause the gear section to pivot in a selected direction or avoid the gear section ( Depending on the situation) the shift wedge in a series of positions. Figure 5 is an isometric view of a single gear segment and shift wedge 250. The shift wedge 250 is in a first position constructed so that the shift wedge does not interfere with the pins of the gear section. In this configuration, the gear segment is in its pivot position. This position of the gear section corresponds to the first gear ratio, in which the gear section presented is inclined out of the plane of the chain (ie, does not mesh with the chain).

In Figure 6, the shift wedge 250 is in a second position constructed so that the shift wedge is in the path of the pin of the gear section. More specifically, in this position, the second face 254 has entered the path of the pin of the gear section. Therefore, further rotation of the gear segment brings the pin into contact with the second surface 254 and thereby slides along the surface 254 in the direction indicated by the arrow. This pivots the gear section into its coplanar position (see Figure 7) (ie, in the plane of the chain) and therefore the chain engages the section.

Figure 7 depicts the gear section in its coplanar position and the shift wedge 250 in the second position. In this configuration, the shift wedge does not interfere with the pins of the gear section. In other words, this configuration corresponds to the operation of the system at a second gear ratio, under which the gear segment presented meshes with the chain and can rotate freely without hitting the shift wedge.

In Figure 8, the shift wedge 250 is again in the first position. Because the gear section is coplanar with the chain, the shift wedge is now in the path of the pin of the gear section. More specifically, in this position, the first face 252 has entered the path of the pin of the gear section. Therefore, further rotation of the gear segment brings the pin into contact with the first surface 252 and thereby slides along the surface 252 in the direction indicated by the arrow. This pivots the gear section into its pivoted (ie, non-coplanar) position, and the gear section and wedges are again depicted in FIG. 5.

Therefore, the shift system 210 includes a shift wedge that can be switched between the following: (a) A first configuration in which the first ramp surface of the wedge and the first gear set when the section leaves the plane of its chain The pins of each section of the inner gear are in a straight line, so that rotating the pin into the first inclined plane is constructed to push the section to the plane of the chain; and (b) the second configuration, where the section is in The second ramp surface of the time wedge in the plane of the chain is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set, so that the pin is rotated into the second ramp surface and constructed to push the section away from the chain The plane.

As shown in FIG. 9, the gearbox 200 includes a first chain tensioner 232. The chain tensioner 232 has at least one idler gear 236 having a fixed position and at least one adjustable gear 238 configured to move or translate by the push rod 240. In some examples, the chain tensioner 232 includes two idlers and one adjustable gear. The spring is coaxially mounted to the push rod 240 to provide a biasing force. The chain tensioner 232 may be constructed to engage any of the chains described above. In the current example, the idler 236 and gear 238 of the chain tensioner 232 are configured to engage the chain 220. Therefore, the chain 220 interfaces with the third gear set 218, the fourth gear set 222, and the chain tensioner 232.

The chain tensioner 232 is constructed so that the push rod 240 can be used to shift the gear 238, thereby applying more or less tension to the engaged chain. The manipulation of the push rod 240 may be manual (for example, by a user), and/or may be automatic (for example, using mechanical and/or electrical components).

As shown in FIG. 10, the gearbox 200 includes a second chain tensioner 234, which is substantially similar to the chain tensioner 232. In the current example, the chain tensioner 234 includes a single idler 242 and a movable gear 244 attached to the push rod 246. The second chain tensioner is constructed to engage the first chain 212. Therefore, the chain 212 is configured to interface with the first gear set 208, the second gear set 214, and the chain tensioner 234. Any suitable chain tensioner can be used.

FIG. 11 depicts an exploded view of part of the gearbox 200. The first gear set is constructed to be driven by the prime mover of the vehicle (for example, a human pedal and/or electric motor) via the main shaft 206. Each gear of the first gear set 208 is configured to selectively engage the first chain 212 (which may include one or more chains), a conveyor belt, and/or any other suitable device.

In the current example, the first gear set 208 includes two segment gears 208A and 208B. A pin 211 is attached to each gear section of the segment gear 208A. Each gear segment of the segment gear 208A and the corresponding gear segment of the segment gear 208B share a common hinge portion 209 in a fixed angle relationship. The hinge part 209 is constructed to mate with the hinge receiver 256 disposed on the secondary shaft 206. The hinge receiver 256 may be integrated with the main shaft 206 or may be attached by a suitable mechanism (eg, screws, friction fit, etc.). The corresponding sections of the two gears are constructed to pivot together rather than independently (see Figures 17 to 19). In other words, when the section of the gear 208A shifts away from the plane of the chain 212, the corresponding section of 208B enters the plane of the chain 212 (thereby engaging the chain).

The first gear set 208 is coupled to the second gear set 214 via the first chain 212. The system is constructed so that the first chain 212 directly engages a single one of the gears of the first gear set 208 and a single one of the gears of the second gear set 214 at any given time; however, the chain may be in some stages of operation ( For example, when the chain is shifted in stages from one gear to another (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it partially engages more than one of the gears in each cluster.

The second gear set 214 is firmly mounted on the countershaft 216 so that the rotation of the second gear set 214 also rotates the countershaft. The second gear set 214 has a nested configuration, so that the segmented gear 214A and the non-segmented sprocket 214B can be nested together (see FIGS. 20-22). A pin 217 is attached to the inner side of each gear section of the segmented gear 214A. Each gear section of the segmented gear 214A includes a hinge portion 215 coupled to a hinge receiver 258 disposed on the secondary shaft 216. The hinge receiver 258 may be integrated with the secondary shaft 216 or may be attached by a suitable fastening mechanism (eg, screws, friction fit, etc.).

The third gear set 218 includes a segmented gear 218A and a non-segmented sprocket 218B that can be nested therein (see FIGS. 23-25). A pin 226 is attached to the inner side of each gear section of the segmented gear 218A. Each gear section of the segmented gear 218A includes a hinge portion 219 coupled to a hinge receiver 260 disposed on the secondary shaft 216. The hinge receivers 258 and 260 may be integrated with the secondary shaft 216 or may be attached by a suitable mechanism (eg, screws, friction fit, etc.).

The third gear set 218 is configured to engage the second chain 220. The second chain 220 couples a selected one of the gears to the fourth gear set 222, thereby transmitting the rotation of the third gear set 218 to the fourth gear set 222. Typically, the second chain 220 directly engages a single of the gears of the third gear set 218 and the fourth gear set 222 at any given time; however, the chain can be operated at some stage (such as when the chain shifts from one gear) When reaching another gear (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it engages more than one of the gears in the cluster.

The fourth gear set 222 is firmly mounted on the output shaft 223 so that the output shaft rotates together with the fourth gear set. The fourth gear set 222 includes a segmented gear 222A and a non-segmented sprocket 222B (refer to FIGS. 26-28). A pin 227 is attached to the inner side of each gear section of the segmented gear 222A. The sprocket 222B includes an opening for mating with the output shaft 223. Each gear section of the segmented gear 222A includes a hinge portion 221 configured to be paired with a hinge receiver 262 disposed on the counter shaft 216. The hinge receiver 258 may be integrated with the secondary shaft 216 or may be attached by a suitable mechanism (eg, screws, friction fit, etc.).

The hollow output shaft 223 (also referred to as an output sleeve) surrounds the main shaft 206 and is coaxial with the main shaft (see FIG. 12), so that the output shaft and the main shaft can rotate freely independently of each other. The output shaft 223 is attached to the chain ring 224 (for example, by a star wheel) so that the chain ring rotates together with the output shaft independently of the main shaft. The chain link 224 thus transmits power from the gearbox 200 to an external system, typically the rear wheel of a bicycle or another suitable wheel or vehicle.

FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the gear system of the gearbox 200 taken at the line 12-12 of FIG. 3. The crank arm 204 is coupled to the main shaft via a crank screw 205. The output shaft 223 is coaxially positioned on the end of the main shaft 106 and is rotationally separated from the main shaft by bearings 225A and 225B.

The tie flange 206A disposed at one end of the main shaft 206 and the tie flange 206B surrounding the output shaft 223 at the opposite end are disposed. The main shaft 206 is rotationally separated from the flange 206A via a bearing 207A, and similarly, the output shaft 223 is rotationally separated from the flange 206B via a bearing 207B.

Similarly, the tie flange 216A is disposed at one end of the secondary shaft 216 and the tie flange 216B is disposed at the opposite end. The countershaft 216 is rotationally separated from the flange 216A via the bearing 117A, and similarly, the countershaft 216 is rotationally separated from the flange 216B via the bearing 117B.

Figures 13 and 14 respectively show the countershaft 216 with the gear sets 214 and 218 removed and coupled. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the sprocket 214B is paired with the secondary shaft 216 in the space between the hinge receiver 258 and the flange 216A. Similarly, the sprocket 218B is paired with the secondary shaft 216 in the space between the hinge receiver 260 and the flange 216B. Figures 17-28 depict various views of portions of the gear set described above.

15 and 16 respectively show an exploded view and a partial exploded view of the main shaft 206 and the output shaft 223 to which the various components are attached.

As shown in FIGS. 17-19, the first gear set 208 includes a plurality of segment gears having different diameters. In the current example, the first gear set 208 includes two gears (one inner side and one outer side). In another example, the first gear set may include more or fewer gears. The gears from the largest diameter gear to the smallest diameter gear are arranged in the first gear set 208. Each segment of the segment gear 208A shares a hinge with the corresponding segment of the segment gear 208B.

As shown in Figures 20-22, the second gear set 214 includes a sprocket or large tooth (for example, a single non-segmented gear) with a first diameter and a segmented gear with a second (larger) diameter. The segmented gear can be converted into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket.

As shown in Figures 23-25, the third gear set 218 includes a large unsegmented tooth or sprocket with a first diameter and a segmented gear with a second (larger) diameter, which can be converted Into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket.

As shown in Figures 26-28, the fourth gear set 222 includes large teeth with a first diameter and a segmented gear with a second (larger) diameter, which can be converted to a smaller sprocket. In the same plane and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket.

FIG. 29 shows the meshing of parts of the shift system 210 with the gear sets 208 and 222. As shown in the figure, the shift wedge corresponding to the gear set 208 is in its second position, and the gear section of gear 208B is in its pivot position. Therefore, the gear section of gear 208A is in its coplanar position. In contrast, the shift wedge corresponding to the gear set 222 is in its first position, and the gear section of the gear 222A is in its pivot position.

In the current example, the gearbox 200 includes two gear options for the first gear set 208 corresponding to gears 208A and 208B. These options can be identified as A1 and A2 respectively. In the current example, the gearbox 200 includes two gear options for the second gear set 214 corresponding to gears 214A and 214B. These options can be identified as B1 and B2 respectively. In the current example, the gearbox 200 includes two gear options for the third gear set 218 corresponding to gears 218A and 218B. These options can be identified as C1 and C2 respectively. In the current example, the gearbox 200 includes two gear options for the fourth gear set 222 corresponding to gears 222A and 222B. These options can be identified as D1 and D2 respectively.

Any of the gear options of the first gear set 208, any of the gear options of the second gear set 214, any of the gear options of the third gear set 218, and any of the gear options of the fourth gear set 222 The combination of items determines the gear ratio of the gearbox 200. Each combination of available options may be referred to as the "gear" and/or "speed" of the vehicle including the gearbox 200.

The operator of the vehicle can switch between gear ratios by switching any of the selected options to another available option. For example, if the selected options are currently A1, B1, C2, and D2, the operator can change the current gear ratio by switching D2 to D1. Alternatively or in addition, the operator may change A1 to A2, and/or may change C2 to C1. Switching gear ratios is typically achieved by actuating mechanical and/or electronic controls to pivot the gear sections of the segmented gears, thereby engaging the chain and different gears. C. Illustrative belt drive gear system

This section describes the belt drive gear system 300 used with the gearbox of the present invention. Refer to Figure 30 to Figure 43.

The components and configurations described in this section can be utilized in a gearbox such as the gearbox 200 described above, as a replacement and/or addition to the components and configurations already described with respect to the gearbox 200. The components described in this section can be utilized in the gearbox 200, for example, as a replacement for the corresponding components described above. For example, one or more of the belt drive gear sets described in this section can be used in the gearbox 200 instead of the corresponding gear sets described above (ie, gear sets 208, 214, 218 and/ Or 222).

Continuing to refer to FIGS. 30 to 43, the belt drive gear system 300 includes: a first gear set 308 constructed to be placed on the main shaft 206; a second gear set 314 constructed to be placed on the countershaft 216; and constructed to be placed The third gear set 318 on the countershaft 216; and the fourth gear set 322 constructed to be placed on the output shaft 223. The first gear set 308 is coupled to the second gear set 314 by the first transmission belt 312. Similarly, the third gear set 318 is coupled to the fourth gear set 322 via the second transmission belt 320.

Therefore, the rotation of the main shaft 206 (for example, by operating a cyclist attached to a pedal attached to the crank arm and/or by a motor) transmits power from the first gear set 308 to the second gear set 314 via the first belt 312 , And transmitted from the second gear set to the third gear set 318 via the countershaft. The second transmission belt 320 transmits power from the third gear set 318 to the fourth gear set 322, and transmits power from the fourth gear set to the chain ring 224 via the output shaft 223, and/or to another suitable system.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, the first conveyor belt 312 and the second conveyor belt 320 are toothed conveyor belts (also called timing conveyor belts), but other ridge or groove toothed conveyor belts may be used. In this example, each transmission belt has a toothed curved surface and a non-toothed curved surface. In some examples, friction conveyor belts are used, such as flat conveyor belts, V-shaped conveyor belts, ribbed conveyor belts (ie, multi-V conveyor belts), hexagonal conveyor belts, etc., where the gears of the system have corresponding sections that engage the selected transmission belt. Because each type of transmission belt provides different responses regarding maximum torque, slippage, etc., the appropriate conveyor belt can be selected based on the anticipated application and load.

In the examples shown in Figures 30-43, the gear sets 308, 314, 318, 322 are constructed to engage a timing belt. In other words, the gear set includes a plurality of complementary groove tooth structures configured to engage the tooth surfaces of the conveyor belts 312, 320. In some examples, the gear set is adapted to engage the friction conveyor belt, for example, by having a profile or contour that is complementary to that of the friction conveyor belt.

Each of the gear sets may include a plurality of gears, one or more of the plurality of gears having a plurality of gear segments. Gears with gear sections can be called segmented gears. Each gear segment can be shaped as an annular sector. In some examples, each segmented gear includes four gear segments. Each gear segment is rotatably attached to a hinge located near the center of the segment gear. One or more gear sets may have unsegmented sprockets with a smaller diameter than the respective segment gears. Each gear segment can be attached to a shift pin. Each gear segment pivots (or folds) in a direction transverse to the gear plane. In other words, each such gear segment can be switched between a coplanar position and a pivoted (also referred to as folded) position. This configuration enables the segmented gear to be in a coplanar configuration (that is, in which all segments are aligned to form a substantially coplanar gear) and a pivoting (also known as conical) configuration (that is, in which All gear segments in the same direction are shifted away from the plane formed in the coplanar configuration (for example, stepwise)

The shifting of gear sets 308, 314, 318, and 322 is substantially similar to the shifting of gear sets 208, 214, 218, and 222, for example, using the shifting system 210 as described above or the shifting system 510 as described below .

As shown in FIG. 30, the third gear set 318 is constructed to engage the second drive belt 320. The second transmission belt 320 couples a selected one of the gears to the fourth gear set 322, thereby transmitting the rotation of the third gear set 318 to the fourth gear set 322. Typically, the second drive belt 320 directly engages a single of the gears of the third gear set 318 and the fourth gear set 322 at any given time; however, the drive belt can be operated at some stage (such as when the drive belt is shifted from one gear). When reaching another gear (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it engages more than one of the gears in the cluster. The fourth gear set 322 may be firmly mounted on the output shaft 223 (see above) so that the output shaft and the fourth gear set rotate together.

As shown in FIG. 30, the gear system 300 includes a first belt tensioner 332. The first belt tensioner 332 includes at least one idler gear 336 having a fixed position, at least one stationary gear 337 attached to the mounting bracket 339, and at least one adjustable gear 338 constructed to move or translate by the push rod 340 . In the example shown in FIG. 30, the first belt tensioner 332 includes two idler pulleys. The idler gear 336 has a smooth outer surface constructed to engage the smooth non-toothed sides or curved surfaces of the drive belt 320. On the contrary, the stationary gear 337 and the adjustable gear 338 have a grooved tooth structure constructed to engage the toothed curved surface of the transmission belt 320. The spring is coaxially mounted to the push rod 340 to provide a biasing force.

The first belt tensioner 332 may be constructed to engage any of the conveyor belts described above. In the current example, the idler 336 and gears 337 and 338 of the first belt tensioner 332 are constructed to engage the belt 320. Therefore, the transmission belt 320 interfaces with the third gear set 318, the fourth gear set 322, and the transmission belt tensioner 332.

The first belt tensioner 332 is constructed so that the push rod 340 can be used to linearly shift the gear 338 relative to the idler 337, thereby applying more or less tension to the engaged belt. The manipulation of the push rod 340 may be manual (for example, by a user), and/or may be automatic (for example, using mechanical and/or electrical components).

As shown in FIG. 31, the first gear set 308 is coupled to the second gear set 314 by the first transmission belt 312. The system is constructed so that the first transmission belt 312 directly engages a single of the gears of the first gear set 308 and the second gear set 314 at any given time; When shifting to another gear in stages (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it partially engages more than one of the gears in each cluster. The second gear set 314 is firmly mounted on the counter shaft 216 (see above), so that the rotation of the second gear set 314 also rotates the counter shaft.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 31, the gear system 300 includes a second belt tensioner 334. The second belt tensioner 334 is configured to engage the first belt 312. Therefore, the transmission belt 312 is constructed to interface with the first gear set 308, the second gear set 314 and the transmission belt tensioner 334.

In the example shown in FIG. 31, the belt tensioner 334 includes a single idler 342 and an adjustable gear 344 attached to the push rod 346. The idler 342 has a smooth outer surface constructed to engage the non-toothed surface of the drive belt 312. Conversely, the adjustable gear 338 includes a grooved tooth structure constructed to engage the toothed curved surface of the transmission belt 312. The spring is coaxially mounted to the push rod 340 to provide a biasing force.

The second belt tensioner 334 is constructed so that the push rod 346 can be used to displace the gear 344, thereby applying more or less tension to the engaged belt. The manipulation of the push rod 346 may be manual (for example, by a user), and/or may be automatic (for example, using mechanical and/or electrical components).

As shown in FIGS. 32 to 34, the first gear set 308 includes a sprocket or large tooth 308B having a first diameter (eg, a single non-segmented gear) and a segmented gear 308A having a second (larger) diameter . The segmented gear can be converted into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket. In the current example, the first gear set 308 includes two gears. In another example, the first gear set may include more or fewer gears. The gears are arranged in the first gear set 308 from the largest diameter gear to the smallest diameter gear.

Each gear segment of the segment gear 308A includes a pin (eg, pin 211) attached in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 208A as described above. In addition, each gear section of the segment gear 308A is constructed to include a hinge portion (eg, hinge portion 209) in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 208A. The hinge part is constructed to mate with the hinge receiver 256 disposed on the main shaft 206.

As shown in FIGS. 35 to 37, the second gear set 314 has a nested configuration such that the segmented gear 314A and the non-segmented sprocket 314B can be nested together. The segmented gear can be converted into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket. In the depicted example, the second gear set 314 includes two gears. In another example, the second gear set may include more or fewer gears. The gears from the largest diameter gear to the smallest diameter gear are arranged in the second gear set 314.

The inner side of each gear section of the segment gear 314A is constructed to include a pin (eg, pin 217) attached in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 214A. In addition, each gear section of the segment gear 314A is constructed to include a hinge portion (eg, hinge portion 215) in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 214A. The hinge part is constructed to mate with the hinge receiver 258 disposed on the secondary shaft 216.

As shown in FIGS. 38 to 43, the third gear set 318 has a nested configuration such that the segmented gear 318A and the non-segmented sprocket 318B can be nested together. The segmented gear can be converted into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket. In the current example, the third gear set 318 includes two gears. In another example, the third gear set may include more or fewer gears. The gears from the largest diameter gear to the smallest diameter gear are arranged in the third gear set 318.

The inner side of each gear section of the segment gear 318A includes a pin (eg, pin 226) attached in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 218A. In addition, each gear section of the segment gear 318A is constructed to include a hinge portion (eg, hinge portion 219) in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 218A. The hinge part is constructed to be coupled to the hinge receiver 260 disposed on the secondary shaft 216.

As shown in FIGS. 41 to 43, the fourth gear set 322 has a nested configuration such that the segmented gear 322A and the non-segmented sprocket 322B can be nested together. The segmented gear can be converted into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket. In the current example, the fourth gear set 322 includes two gears. In another example, the fourth gear set may include more or fewer gears. The gears from the largest diameter gear to the smallest diameter gear are arranged in the third gear set 318.

The inner side of each gear section of the segment gear 322A has a pin (for example, pin 227) attached in the same corresponding position as the segment gear 222A. The sprocket 322B includes an opening for mating with the output shaft 223. Each gear segment of the segmented gear 322A is constructed to include a hinge portion (eg, hinge portion 221). The hinge part is constructed to mate with the hinge receiver 262 disposed on the secondary shaft 216.

In the depicted example, the gear system 300 includes two gear options for the first gear set 308 corresponding to gears 308A and 308B. These options are identified as A1 and A2 respectively. In the current example, the gear system 300 includes two gear options for the second gear set 314 corresponding to gears 314A and 314B. These options are identified as B1 and B2 respectively. In the current example, the gear system 300 includes two gear options for the third gear set 318 corresponding to gears 318A and 318B. These options are respectively identified as C1 and C2. In the current example, the gear system 300 includes two gear options for the fourth gear set 322 corresponding to gears 322A and 322B. These options are identified as D1 and D2 respectively.

Any of the gear options of the first gear set 308, any of the gear options of the second gear set 314, any of the gear options of the third gear set 318, and any of the gear options of the fourth gear set 322 The combination of terms determines the gear ratio of the gear system 300. Each combination of available options can be referred to as the "gear" and/or "speed" of the vehicle including the gearbox 300.

The operator of the vehicle can switch between gear ratios by switching any of the selected options to another available option. For example, if the selected options are currently A1, B1, C2, and D2, the operator can change the current gear ratio by switching D2 to D1. Alternatively or in addition, the operator may change A1 to A2, and/or may change C2 to C1. Switching gear ratios is typically achieved by actuating mechanical and/or electronic control to pivot the gear sections of the segmented gears, thereby engaging the transmission belt and different gears. D. Third illustrative gearbox

This section describes the gearbox 400, which is an example of the gearbox 100 described above. Refer to Figure 44 to Figure 69.

As shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, the gearbox 400 includes a housing 402. The housing contains at least part of the gear system, as described above. An illustrative gear system for the gearbox 400 is described further below. The main shaft 406 extends through the housing. The first crank arm 404 and the second crank arm (not shown) are coupled to the respective ends of the main shaft 406, and the chain ring 424 couples the gearbox 400 to the wheels (for example, the rear wheel, via an external drive chain or belt) .

FIG. 4 is a top view of the gearbox 400. The gearbox 400 includes a countershaft 416 and four gear sets: a first (input) gear set 408 (also referred to as cluster 1) that is rotatably coupled to the outer sheath 407 of the main shaft 406; and is arranged on the countershaft 416 The second gear set 414 (also called cluster 2); the third gear set 418 (also called cluster 3) arranged on the countershaft 416; and the output shaft 423 (also called the driven shaft) (its It is an example of the output shaft 123) on the fourth gear set 422 (also referred to as cluster 4). The first gear set 408 is coupled to the second gear set 414 via the first chain 412. Similarly, the third gear set 418 is coupled to the fourth gear set 422 via the second chain 420. Although chains are mentioned in this article, one or more conveyor belts (for example, timing conveyor belts) can be used.

Therefore, the rotation of the main shaft 406 (for example, by operating a cyclist attached to a pedal attached to the crank arm and/or by a motor) transmits power from the first gear set 408 to the second gear set 414 via the first chain 412 , And transmitted from the second gear set to the third gear set 418 via the countershaft. The second chain 420 transmits power from the third gear set 418 to the fourth gear set 422, and transmits power from the fourth gear set to the chain ring 424 via the output shaft 423.

Each of the gear sets may include a plurality of gears, one or more of the plurality of gears having a plurality of gear segments. Gears with gear sections can be called segmented gears. Each gear segment can be shaped as an annular sector. In some examples, each segmented gear includes four gear sections, but more or fewer gear sections may be present. Each gear segment is pivotally attached to a hinge placed near the center of the segment gear.

The one or more gear sets may include unsegmented sprockets having a smaller diameter than the respective segment gears. Each gear segment pivots (or folds) in a direction transverse to the gear plane. In other words, each gear segment can be switched between a coplanar position and a pivoted (also referred to as folded) position away from the initial plane. This configuration enables the segmented gear to be in a coplanar configuration (that is, in which all segments are aligned to form a substantially coplanar gear) and a pivoting (also known as conical) configuration (that is, in which All gear segments in the same direction are shifted away from the plane formed in the coplanar configuration (for example, stepwise)

As shown in Figure 46, the shift system 410 is disposed within the gearbox 400 in a substantially central position. The shift system 410 is an example of the shift system 110 described above. A more detailed description of the shift system 410 is provided below with respect to FIGS. 51 to 57. Alternatively, a shifting system 510 may be utilized, and a detailed description of the shifting system 510 is provided in Section E with respect to FIGS. 70 to 74 below.

As shown in FIG. 47, the gearbox 400 includes a first chain tensioner 432. The first chain tensioner 432 includes at least one idler wheel 436 having a fixed position, at least one idler wheel 437 attached to the adjustable mounting bracket 439, and at least one adjustable wheel configured to move or translate by a push rod 440 Gear 438. In the example shown in FIG. 47, the first chain tensioner 432 includes two idlers. The spring is coaxially mounted to the push rod 440 to provide a biasing force.

The first chain tensioner 432 may be constructed to engage any of the chains described above. In the current example, the idlers 436 and 437 of the first chain tensioner 432 and the gear 438 are constructed to engage the chain 420. Therefore, the chain 420 interfaces with the third gear set 418, the fourth gear set 422, and the chain tensioner 432.

The first chain tensioner 432 is constructed so that the push rod 440 can be used to linearly shift the gear 438 relative to the idler 437, thereby applying more or less tension to the engaged chain. The manipulation of the push rod 440 may be manual (for example, by a user), and/or may be automatic (for example, using mechanical and/or electrical components).

As shown in FIG. 48, the first gear set 408 is coupled to the second gear set 414 by the first chain 412. The system is constructed so that the first chain 412 directly engages a single of the gears of the first gear set 408 and the second gear set 414 at any given time; however, the chain can be operated at some stage (such as when the chain is from a gear) When shifting to another gear in stages (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it partially engages more than one of the gears in each cluster. The second gear set 414 is firmly mounted on the secondary shaft 416 (see above), so that the rotation of the second gear set 414 also rotates the secondary shaft.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 48, the gearbox 400 includes a second chain tensioner 434. The second chain tensioner 434 is configured to engage the first chain 412. Therefore, the chain 412 is configured to interface with the first gear set 408, the second gear set 414, and the chain tensioner 434.

In the example shown in FIG. 48, the chain tensioner 434 includes an idler gear 442, a stationary gear 443, and an adjustable gear 444 attached to the push rod 446. The spring is coaxially mounted to the push rod 446 to provide a biasing force.

The second chain tensioner 434 is constructed so that the push rod 446 can be used to shift the gear 444, thereby applying more or less tension to the engaged chain. The manipulation of the push rod 446 may be manual (for example, by a user), and/or may be automatic (for example, using mechanical and/or electrical components).

As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 49, the gearbox 400 includes a brace clutch 447 coaxially disposed between the main shaft 406 and the outer sheath 407. The diagonal brace clutch 447 is constructed such that the forward rotation of the main shaft 406 (for example, by a user's foot pedal) causes the outer sheath 407 to rotate and thereby rotate the first gear set 408. Conversely, the diagonal brace clutch 447 allows the main shaft 406 to rotate freely in the reverse direction without engaging the outer sheath 407. In other words, the brace clutch 447 enables the user to pedal in the reverse direction without causing the gear set to similarly rotate in the reverse direction.

Figure 50 depicts a cross-sectional view of the gear system of the gearbox 400 taken at line 8-8 of Figure 45. The crank arm 404 is coupled to the main shaft via a crank screw 405. The output shaft 423 is coaxially positioned on the end of the main shaft 406 and is rotationally separated from the main shaft by a bearing 425.

A tie flange 406A disposed at one end of the main shaft 406 and a tie flange 406B surrounding the output shaft 423 at the opposite end are disposed. The main shaft 406 is rotationally separated from the flange 406A via a bearing 407A, and similarly, the output shaft 423 is rotationally separated from the flange 406B via a bearing 407B.

Similarly, a tie flange 416A disposed at one end of the secondary shaft 416 and a tie flange 416B disposed at the opposite end. The secondary shaft 416 is rotationally separated from the flange 416A via the bearing 417A, and similarly, the secondary shaft 416 is rotationally separated from the flange 416B via the bearing 417B.

In the current example, the first gear set 408 includes two segment gears 408A and 408B. Attached to each gear section of the segment gear 408A is a hinge knuckle 411. Each gear segment of the segment gear 408A additionally shares a common hinge portion 409 with the corresponding gear segment of the segment gear 408B in a fixed angle relationship. The hinge portion 409 is constructed to mate with the hinge receiver 456 disposed on the outer sheath 407. The hinge receiver 456 may be integrated with the outer sheath 407 or may be attached by a suitable mechanism (eg, screw, friction fit, etc.). The corresponding sections of the two gears are constructed to pivot together rather than independently (see Figures 58 to 60). In other words, when a section of the gear 408A shifts away from the plane of the chain 412, the corresponding section of 408B enters the plane of the chain 412 (thereby engaging the chain).

The first gear set 408 is coupled to the second gear set 414 via the first chain 412. The system is constructed so that the first chain 412 directly engages a single one of the gears of the first gear set 408 and a single one of the gears of the second gear set 414 at any given time; however, the chain may be in some stages of operation ( For example, when the chain is shifted in stages from one gear to another (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it partially engages more than one of the gears in each cluster.

The second gear set 414 is firmly mounted on the counter shaft 416 so that the rotation of the second gear set 414 also rotates the counter shaft. The second gear set 414 has a nested configuration, so that the segmented gear 414A and the non-segmented sprocket 414B can be nested together (see FIGS. 61 to 21). The sprocket 414B is paired with the secondary shaft 416 in the space between the hinge receiver 458 and the flange 416A. Similarly, the sprocket 418B is paired with the secondary shaft 416 in the space between the hinge receiver 460 and the flange 416B. Attached to the inner side of each gear section of the segment gear 414A is a hinge knuckle 417. Each gear section of the segmented gear 414A includes a hinge portion 415 coupled to a hinge receiver 458 disposed on the secondary shaft 416. The hinge receiver 458 may be integrated with the secondary shaft 416 or may be attached by a suitable fastening mechanism (eg, screws, friction fit, etc.).

The third gear set 418 includes a segmented gear 418A and a non-segmented sprocket 418B that can be nested therein (refer to FIGS. 64 to 24). Attached to the inner side of each gear section of the segment gear 418A is a hinge knuckle 426. Each gear section of the segmented gear 418A includes a hinge portion 419 coupled to a hinge receiver 460 disposed on the secondary shaft 416. The hinge receivers 458 and 460 may be integrated with the secondary shaft 416 or may be attached by a suitable mechanism (eg, screws, friction fit, etc.).

The third gear set 418 is configured to engage the second chain 420. The second chain 420 couples a selected one of the gears to the fourth gear set 422, thereby transmitting the rotation of the third gear set 418 to the fourth gear set 422. Typically, the second chain 420 directly engages a single of the gears of the third gear set 418 and the fourth gear set 422 at any given time; however, the chain can be operated at some stage (such as when the chain shifts from one gear) When reaching another gear (for example, in response to user and/or controller input), it engages more than one of the gears in the cluster.

The fourth gear set 422 is firmly mounted on the output shaft 423 so that the output shaft rotates with the fourth gear set. The fourth gear set 422 includes a segmented gear 422A and a non-segmented sprocket 422B (refer to FIGS. 65 to 27). Attached to the inner side of each gear section of the segment gear 422A is a hinge knuckle 427. The sprocket 422B includes an opening for mating with the output shaft 423. Each gear section of the segmented gear 422A includes a hinge portion 421 configured to be paired with a hinge receiver 462 disposed on the output shaft 423. The hinge receiver 462 may be integrated with the output shaft 423 or may be attached by a suitable mechanism (for example, screws, friction fit, etc.).

The hollow output shaft 423 (also referred to as an output sleeve) surrounds the main shaft 406 and is coaxial with the main shaft, so that the output shaft and the main shaft can freely rotate independently of each other. The output shaft 423 is attached to the chain ring 424 (for example, by a star wheel) so that the chain ring rotates with the output shaft independently of the main shaft. The chain link 424 therefore transmits power from the gearbox 400 to an external system, typically the rear wheel of a bicycle or another suitable wheel or vehicle.

The gearbox 400 utilizes a shifting system for switching the segment gears between a coplanar configuration and a pivoting configuration. In general, the gearbox 400 may utilize the shift system 410 described immediately below, or any other suitable system, such as the shift system 510 described in Section C with respect to FIGS. 70 to 74.

Turning now to FIG. 51, the shift system 410 is depicted. The gear shift system 410 includes a plurality of actuators 448 and a plurality of toggle levers 450, and each of the actuators and the toggle levers is coupled to the mounting plate 449. The mounting plate 449 is placed at the center of the gearbox 400 so that one actuator and one toggle lever correspond to each of the four gear sets. Each actuator 448 may include a separate linear actuator coupled to a pivoting actuator arm (eg, under the control of an electronic controller and/or a user).

As shown in FIGS. 52 and 53, the actuator 448 is constructed to engage and manipulate the toggle lever 450. The toggle lever 450 is constructed to selectively and mechanically interface with a plurality of shifting sliders 451 placed in the guide plate 453. Each shift slider is coupled to the gear section of each of the range gears (eg, the range gears 408A, 414A, 418A, and 422A).

The shift slider 451 includes a pair of protrusions referred to herein as the first protrusion 452 and the second protrusion 454, which are generally constructed such that the rotation of the corresponding gear set causes the shift slider 451 to rotate, so that the first protrusions 452 and The second protrusion 454 is brought to the opposite side of the toggle lever 450. The actuator 448 is constructed to selectively switch between two positions under the control of an electronic controller, for example by means of a linear actuator, thereby urging the toggle lever 450 in two corresponding positions (one position) by means of the lever 461. For each of the first protrusion 452 and the second protrusion 454) to rotate between. The two positions of the toggle lever 450 are referred to herein as the first position and the second position.

When the toggle lever 450 is in the first position, the rotation of the gear set (and therefore the guide plate 453 and the shift slide 451) causes the toggle lever 450 to hit the first protrusion 452, thereby pushing the shift slide in a generally outward direction. Piece 451. Conversely, when the toggle lever 450 is in the second position, the rotation of the gear set causes the toggle lever 450 to hit the second protrusion 454, thereby pushing the shift slider 451 in a generally inward direction. In other words, the actuator 448 and the toggle lever 450 are configured to selectively shift the shift slider 451 between two positions in a radial direction, for example, along the arrow in FIG. 11.

The retaining spring 459 is constructed to provide a biasing force on the toggle lever 450 so that when the toggle lever 450 does not engage the first protrusion 452 or the second protrusion 454, the toggle lever 450 is held in the neutral position against the lever 461. The holding spring 459 and the toggle lever 450 are constructed such that the neutral position of the toggle lever 450 corresponds to the toggle lever substantially between the first protrusion 452 and the second protrusion 454. In the neutral position, the toggle lever 450 does not engage (ie, hit) the first protrusion or the second protrusion. In other words, when the toggle lever 450 is in the neutral position, the gear ratio of the corresponding gear set is not changed. In addition, when the gearbox 400 is agitated or otherwise shaken, the retaining spring 459 allows the toggle lever 450 to be generally held fixed.

After the shift slider 451 is shifted to either of the two positions, the protrusion passes through the toggle lever 450 and maintains the biasing force of the spring 459 to return the toggle lever 450 to the neutral position. As shown in FIGS. 54 and 55, each shift slider 451 is coupled to the gear section of the segment gear. The linear translation of the shift slider 451 between the two positions causes the respective gear segments to rotate between the coplanar position and the pivot position described above. In the example depicted in FIGS. 51 to 55, the first position of the toggle lever 450 corresponds to the coplanar position of the segment gear. Therefore, the second position of the toggle lever 450 corresponds to the pivot position of the segment gear.

As shown in FIGS. 56 and 57, each shift slider 451 is coupled to a hinge 455 having a hinge pin 457. The shift slider 451 and the hinge 455 have a fixed relationship, so that the linear translation of the shift slider 451 causes the hinge 455 to rotate. Each hinge knuckle (ie, hinge knuckles 411, 417, 426, 427) corresponding to the gear section is constructed to be coupled to the hinge pin 457. This configuration enables the segmented gear to be switched between the coplanar position and the pivoted position by the translation of the shift slider as described above.

Figures 58 to 69 independently depict the first, second, third and fourth gear sets.

As shown in FIGS. 58 to 60, the first gear set 408 includes a plurality of segment gears having different diameters. In the current example, the first gear set 408 includes two gears (one inner side and one outer side). In another example, the first gear set may include more or fewer gears. The gears are arranged in the first gear set 408 from the largest diameter gear to the smallest diameter gear. Each segment of the segment gear 408A shares a hinge with the corresponding segment of the segment gear 408B.

As shown in Figures 61 to 63, the second gear set 414 includes a sprocket or large tooth (for example, a single non-segmented gear) with a first diameter and a segmented gear with a second (larger) diameter. The segmented gear can be converted into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket.

As shown in Figures 64 to 66, the third gear set 418 includes a large unsegmented tooth or sprocket with a first diameter and a segmented gear with a second (larger) diameter, which can be converted Into the same plane as the smaller sprocket and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket.

As shown in Figure 65 to Figure 69, the fourth gear set 422 includes a large tooth with a first diameter and a segmented gear with a second (larger) diameter, which can be converted to a smaller sprocket In the same plane and away from the same plane as the smaller sprocket.

In the current example, the gearbox 400 includes two gear options for the first gear set 408 corresponding to gears 408A and 408B. These options can be identified as A1 and A2 respectively. In the current example, the gearbox 400 includes two gear options for the second gear set 414 corresponding to gears 414A and 414B. These options can be identified as B1 and B2 respectively. In the current example, the gearbox 400 includes two gear options for the third gear set 418 corresponding to gears 418A and 418B. These options can be identified as C1 and C2 respectively. In the current example, the gearbox 400 includes two gear options for the fourth gear set 422 corresponding to gears 422A and 422B. These options can be identified as D1 and D2 respectively.

Any of the gear options of the first gear set 408, any of the gear options of the second gear set 414, any of the gear options of the third gear set 418, and any of the gear options of the fourth gear set 422 The combination of items determines the gear ratio of the gearbox 400. Each combination of available options may be referred to as the "gear" and/or "speed" of the vehicle including the gearbox 400.

The operator of the vehicle can switch between gear ratios by switching any of the selected options to another available option. For example, if the selected options are currently A1, B1, C2, and D2, the operator can change the current gear ratio by switching D2 to D1. Alternatively or in addition, the operator may change A1 to A2, and/or may change C2 to C1. Switching gear ratios is typically achieved by actuating mechanical and/or electronic control to pivot the gear sections of the segmented gears, thereby engaging the chain and different gears. E. Descriptive shift system

This section describes the shifting system 510. Refer to Figure 70 to Figure 74. The gear shift system 510 is constructed to be utilized in the gearbox 100, the gearbox 200, and/or the gearbox 400, as a direct replacement for the gearshift system 110, the gearshift system 210, and the gearshift system 410, respectively. The shift system 510 is similar to the shift system 410, with the differences described below. Additionally or alternatively, the shifting system 510 may be utilized with any system that includes a pivoting range gear and/or a range gear set (ie, independent of the gearbox). For example, the gear shifting system 510 may be used in a transmission system of a bicycle, an electric bicycle, or a motorcycle with one or more segmented links and/or large teeth of the cassette.

The gear shift system 510 includes one or more toggle levers 550 (also referred to as wedges) coupled to one or more actuators 548 of the mounting plate and manipulated by the actuators to cause the gear section to shift. In some examples, the mounting plate is positioned at the center of the gearbox 500 so that one actuator corresponds to each of the four gear sets (for example, see FIG. 46 and the corresponding mounting plate 449 above). Each actuator 548 may include any suitable actuator configured to shift the associated toggle lever between two or more positions, as described below. In this example, the actuator 548 includes a linear actuator coupled to the toggle lever by a pivoting lever 561 (for example, under the control of an electronic controller and/or a user). In some examples, the actuator 548 is an electromechanical linear actuator. Actuators 548 may include piezoelectric linear actuators, screw actuators, cylinders and pistons, stepper motors, pneumatic actuators, and/or the like.

As shown in FIG. 70, the actuator 548 is constructed to engage and manipulate the toggle lever 550 via the lever 561. The toggle lever 550 and the lever 561 pivot or rotate together about the fixed pivot 555 so that the extension and retraction actuator 548 causes the toggle lever 550 to switch between two operational positions. In some examples, the toggle lever 550 and the lever 561 are integrated and/or formed as a single piece structure. In some examples, the toggle lever 550 and the lever 561 are coupled together by means of a third structure, for example. The toggle lever 550 is constructed to selectively mechanically interface with corresponding parts of the plurality of shift sliders 551 placed in the rotating guide plate 553, as described further below. The pivot 555 has a rotation axis substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the guide plate.

Turning to FIGS. 71 and 72, the system 510 is shown in FIG. 71 as having a toggle lever 550 in a first configuration or position, and is shown in FIG. 72 as having a toggle lever 550 in a second configuration or position . The toggle lever 550 includes a pair of inclined surfaces, which are referred to herein as a first inclined surface 556 and a second inclined surface 558. In the example depicted in FIGS. 71 and 72, the toggle lever 550 has an asymmetrical leaf profile with lateral edges that are generally constructed to have a curvilinear profile, wherein the opposite edges form a first surface and a second surface . In operation, the extension of the linear actuator 548 in the direction indicated by arrow A causes the lever 561 and the toggle lever 550 to pivot about the fixed pivot 555, thereby causing the toggle lever 550 (and therefore the first surface 556 And the second surface 558) changes in position and orientation.

The fixed pivot 555 may be rotatably fixed to the mounting plate, the gearbox housing, or both, so that the pivot is still in a fixed position in the gearbox even when other components (such as the guide plate 553) rotate. The toggle lever 550 can be selectively positioned in one of two states (referred to herein as the first state and the second state) in this manner. For reference, the toggle lever 550 is shown in its first state in FIG. 71 and its second state in FIG. 72.

Each shift slider 551 includes a pair of protrusions (a first protrusion 552 and a second protrusion 554) that are operated by a toggle lever to translate the shift slider in the direction indicated by the arrow C in an operable manner. The first protrusion 552 and the second protrusion 554 are arranged at the relative position of the distal end on the slider, so that when the gear set rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow B, the first protrusion and the second protrusion reach the toggle lever 550 The opposite side. The first protrusion 552 and the second protrusion 554 and the shift slider 551 may be integrated and/or formed as a single piece structure. In some examples, the shift sliders and protrusions include durable plastics (for example, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc.), metals/metal alloys (aluminum, titanium, Steel, etc.) and/or another suitable durable material.

Similar to the description in section D, referring to FIGS. 52 to 57, each shift slider 551 is coupled to each of the segment gears (for example, the segment gears 408A, 414A, 418A, and 422A of the gearbox 400) The hinges of the respective gear sections. Each shift slider 551 and the respective gear section have a defined relationship, so that the linear translation of the shift slider 551 causes the gear section to pivot, which will be described in more depth with respect to FIGS. 73 and 74 below. The shift slider and the hinge mechanism can be collectively referred to as section actuators or gear section actuators.

This enables the segmented gear to be switched between a coplanar configuration and a pivoting configuration via the translation of the shift slider. Therefore, the shift slider can selectively switch between a first position corresponding to the coplanar configuration of the segment gear and a second position corresponding to the pivot configuration of the segment gear. For reference, the shift slider is shown in the first position in FIG. 71 and the second position in FIG. 72.

A description of the shift system 510 that facilitates the selective conversion of the segmented gear between its two configurations (coplanar and pivoting) is now provided.

Consider the shift slider 551 in its second position and the toggle lever 550 in its first state. In this configuration, the toggle lever 550 is oriented so that the first face 556 is in the path of the first protrusion 552. The rotation of the gear set (for example, by the user) in the direction indicated by the arrow B thereby causes the first protrusion 552 to hit the first surface 556, thereby causing the shift slider 551 to follow the path indicated by the arrow C Pan in a generally outward direction. In some examples, the protrusion 552 follows the contour of the face 556 in the manner of a cam and follower mechanism, whereby the sliding member 551 is guided slightly outwards to avoid any unnecessary force acting on the sliding member or toggle lever.

When the gear set continues to rotate, the first protrusion of each subsequent slider 551 hits the first surface 556 until all four of the shift sliders have translated outward to their first position, as reflected in FIG. 71 . After all the slides have been translated outward in this way, the range gear is fully shifted into its coplanar configuration. In addition, since the slider has translated outward, the toggle lever is no longer in the path of any one of the first protrusions. Therefore, the gear set can rotate freely without any other shifts.

Now consider that the toggle lever 550 has been pivoted by the actuator 548 into its second state. In this configuration, the toggle lever 550 is oriented so that the second face 558 is in the path of the second protrusion 554. The rotation of the gear set in the direction indicated by the arrow B thereby causes the second protrusion 554 to strike the second surface 558, thereby causing the shift slider 551 to translate in a generally inward direction along the path indicated by the arrow C. In some examples, the protrusion 554 follows the contour of the face 558 in the manner of a cam and follower mechanism.

When the gear set continues to rotate, the second protrusion of each subsequent slider 551 hits the second surface 558 until all four of the shift sliders have translated inward to their second position, as reflected in FIG. 72 . After all the slides have translated inward in this way, the range gear is fully shifted into its pivot configuration. In addition, since the slider has translated inward, the toggle lever is no longer in the path of any of the second protrusions. Therefore, the gear set can rotate freely without any other shifts.

Turning to FIGS. 73 and 74, the relationship between the linear movement of the slider 551 and the pivoting of the corresponding gear section will now be further described. For reference, the shift slider 551 is shown in FIG. 73 as being in the first position (corresponding to the coplanar position of FIG. 71 and the range gear), and shown in FIG. 74 as being in the second position (corresponding to FIG. 72 and the pivot position of the segmented gear).

Figures 73 and 74 are side views depicting the operational engagement between the shift slider 551 and a single section 559 of the segmented gear in coplanar and pivoted positions, respectively. In the example of FIGS. 73 and 74, the gear segment depicted is similar to the segment gear of the third gear set 418 (ie, the segment gear 418A), but the basic principle is for one of the segment gears described herein Each one is the same.

The gear section 559 is pivotally attached to the countershaft at the pivot 560 via a hinged knuckle, thereby defining a rotation axis. The pivot 560 corresponds to the hinge pin 457 described above with respect to FIGS. 56 and 57. The gear section is constructed to rotate around this axis of rotation between a coplanar position and a pivot position. In addition, the gear section includes an extension 562 having a groove or elongated aperture 564 formed therein. The shift slider 551 is coupled to the guide plate 553 via an actuating structure on the side opposite to the toggle lever 550 and the first protrusion 552 and the second protrusion 554 by means of a pin 566 that is slidably placed in the aperture 564 Gear section.

As shown in FIG. 74, when the shift slider 551 is translated radially inwardly from the first position to the second position, the pin 566 slides within the aperture 564 and pushes the gear section from the coplanar position, thereby surrounding the pivot 560 The rotation axis rotates to the pivot position. Conversely, as shown in FIG. 73, when the shift slider 551 is translated radially outward from the second position to the first position, the pin 566 again slides within the aperture 564 and pushes the gear section from the pivot position to coplanar Location.

As described above, this conversion of the gear section is performed at a time when the unloading section (ie, getting rid of the chain/belt), so that the gear shift can be performed under load without negative consequences. If necessary, multiple segment sprockets of the gearbox can be shifted simultaneously in this way. F. Illustrative chain tensioner

This section describes the illustrative chain tensioner 600. The chain tensioner 600 is constructed to be utilized in any of the gearboxes described above, for example as a direct replacement for the chain tensioner 432 or 434. Generally speaking, the chain tensioner 600 can be used with roller chains, link chains, and/or other drive chains. Alternatively, the chain tensioner 600 may be utilized with a belt drive or other suitable power transmission mechanism.

As shown in FIG. 75, the chain tensioner 600 includes a first gear 602 and a second gear 604 that are disposed on opposite sides of the chain 606 and are frontally meshed with each other via a holding rod 608. The holding rod is arranged at a fixed position in the gearbox and is mounted to the rigid part of the gearbox (for example, the mounting plate 449 of the gearbox 400). In some examples, the holding rod 608 has an adjustable length, so that the distance between the first gear 602 and the second gear 604 can be adjusted, thereby causing the tension of the chain to change. In some examples, the angle/orientation of the holding rod 608 can be adjusted to selectively change the tension of the chain 608. In some examples, the holding rod 608 may include a biasing mechanism (not shown in the figure) such as a torsion spring, a leaf spring, etc., to increase the tension on the chain 606. In some examples, the position of the tension rod can be adjustable (for example, via one or more fixing screws) so that the chain tensioner can be fine-tuned to the plane of the chain. G. Illustrative combinations and additional examples

The description in this chapter is not limited to the additional aspects and features of the gearbox system described in this article, which are presented as a series of paragraphs. For clarity and efficiency, some or all of them can be specified in text and numbers. Each of these paragraphs can be combined in any suitable manner with one or more other paragraphs and/or with disclosures from elsewhere in this application (including materials incorporated by reference in the cross-reference). Some of the following paragraphs explicitly mention and further limit other paragraphs, providing but not limited to some examples of suitable combinations. A0. A gearbox for a vehicle, the gearbox includes: One drive spindle; A first gear set coaxially fastened to the main shaft so that the first gear set rotates with the main shaft, wherein an inner gear of the first gear set includes a plurality of pivotable inner sections, each of which One has a separate pin protruding laterally from an inner side; A second gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to a counter shaft spaced apart from the main shaft and parallel to the main shaft so that the counter shaft rotates with the second gear set; A continuous first transmission belt or chain that couples the first gear set to the second gear set so that the first gear set drives the second gear set and the first transmission belt or chain defines a first plane, wherein Each of the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set can pivot into and away from the first plane; A third gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to the counter shaft and spaced apart from the second gear set so that the third gear set rotates with the counter shaft; A fourth gear set having one or more gears coupled to a sleeve coaxially installed above the main shaft, so that the sleeve rotates independently of the main shaft; A continuous second drive belt or chain that couples the third gear set to the second gear set so that the third gear set drives the fourth gear set and the second drive belt or chain defines parallel to the first plane One of the second plane; A chain ring fastened to the sleeve so that the chain ring rotates with the fourth gear set; and A gear shifting system, which includes a first shift wedge that can be switched between: (A) A first configuration in which a first ramp surface of the wedge is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section leaves the first plane, So that the pin is rotated into the first inclined plane to be constructed to push the section into the first plane, and (B) A second configuration in which a second ramp surface of the wedge is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section is in the first plane , So that rotating the pin into the second inclined surface is constructed to push the section away from the first plane. A1. Such as the gearbox of A0, in which the first gear set, the second gear set, the first transmission belt or chain, the third gear set, the fourth gear set and the second transmission belt or chain are enclosed in a housing. A2. A gearbox such as A0 or A1, wherein an outer gear of the first gear set is nested in the inner gear such that the outer gear is in line with the first plane. A3. Such as the gearbox of A2, where the outer gear is a non-segmented gear. A4. A gearbox such as A0 or A1, wherein one of the outer gears of the first gear set includes a plurality of pivotable outer sections arranged in pairs with the inner sections, and each pair of outer and inner sections is mounted to one A common hinge allows the inner section of the pair to pivot away from the first plane to automatically pivot the outer section of the pair into the first plane. A5. The gearbox of any of paragraphs A0 to A4, wherein the drive spindle is coupled to a crank configured to rotate the spindle. A6. The gearbox of any of paragraphs A0 to A5, wherein the drive spindle is coupled to an electric motor configured to rotate the spindle. A7. The gearbox of any one of paragraphs A0 to A6, wherein one of the inner gears of the second gear set includes a plurality of pivotable sections, each of which has a separate laterally protruding from an inner side pin. A8. Like the gearbox of A7, the shift system further includes a second shift wedge configured to pivot the sections of the inner gear of the second gear set. A9. The gearbox of any one of paragraphs A0 to A8, wherein a respective inner gear of each of the third and fourth gear sets includes a plurality of pivotable sections, each of which has A separate pin protruding laterally from an inner side. B0. A gearbox for a vehicle, the gearbox includes: One drive spindle; A first gear set that is coaxially fastened to the main shaft so that the first gear set rotates with the main shaft. The first gear set includes an outer gear and an inner gear, wherein the inner gear is physically divided into plural numbers Sections; A second gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to a counter shaft spaced apart from the main shaft and parallel to the main shaft so that the counter shaft rotates with the second gear set; A continuous first transmission belt or chain that couples the first gear set to the second gear set so that the first gear set drives the second gear set and the first transmission belt or chain defines a first plane, wherein The sections of the inner gear of the first gear set can each move into and away from the first plane; A third gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to the counter shaft and spaced apart from the second gear set so that the third gear set rotates with the counter shaft; A fourth gear set having one or more gears coupled to a sleeve coaxially installed above the main shaft, so that the sleeve rotates independently of the main shaft; A continuous second transmission belt or chain that couples the third gear set to the second gear set so that the third gear set drives the fourth gear set; A chain ring fastened to the sleeve so that the chain ring rotates with the fourth gear set; and A gear shifting system including an actuator configured to push the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set into and away from the first plane, so that the gearbox A gear ratio can be changed without displacing the first transmission belt out of the first plane. B1. The gearbox of B0, wherein the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set are constructed to translate along the main axis into and away from the first plane. B2. The gearbox of B0, wherein the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set are constructed to pivot into and away from the first plane. B3. The gearbox of B2, wherein the outer gear of the first gear set includes a plurality of pivotable outer sections arranged in pairs with the inner sections, and each pair of outer and inner sections is mounted to a common hinge , So that the inner section of the pair pivots away from the first plane so that the outer section of the pair automatically pivots into the first plane. B4. Such as the gearbox of B2, in which each of the sections of the inner gear has a separate pin protruding laterally from an inner side surface; and The actuator of the shift system includes a shift wedge that can be switched between: (A) A first configuration in which a first ramp surface of the wedge is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section leaves the first plane, So that the pin is rotated into the first inclined plane to be constructed to push the section into the first plane, and (B) A second configuration in which a second ramp surface of the wedge is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section is in the first plane , So that rotating the pin into the second inclined surface is constructed to push the section away from the first plane. B5. The gearbox of B2, wherein a separate inner gear of each of the second, third, and/or fourth gear sets includes a plurality of pivotable sections. B6. As in the transmission of B5, the actuator of the shift system further includes a second shift wedge constructed to pivot the sections of the inner gear of the second gear set. B7. The gearbox of any one of paragraphs B0 to B6, wherein the first gear set, the second gear set, the first transmission belt or chain, the third gear set, the fourth gear set, and the second transmission belt or chain are enclosed in In a shell. B8. The gearbox of any one of paragraphs B0 to B2, wherein an outer gear of the first gear set can be nested together with the inner gear. B9. Such as the gearbox of B8, in which the outer gear is a non-segmented gear. C0. A gearbox for a vehicle, the gearbox includes: One drive spindle; A secondary shaft, which is spaced apart from the main shaft and parallel to the main shaft; A first gear set coaxially fastened to one of the main shaft or the counter shaft and rotatable therewith, the first gear set includes an outer gear and an inner gear, wherein the inner gear is physically divided into A plurality of sections; A second gear set coaxially fastened to the other of the main shaft or the counter shaft and rotatable therewith, the second gear set having one or more gears; A continuous transmission belt or chain that couples the first gear set to the second gear set so that the transmission belt or chain defines a plane, wherein the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set can each move to In and away from the first plane; A chain link coupled to the counter shaft so that the chain link rotates with the counter shaft; and A gear shifting system including an actuator configured to push the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set into and away from the plane of the belt or chain, so that the shift The gear ratio of one of the boxes can be changed without shifting the belt or chain out of the plane. C1. Such as the gearbox of C0, in which the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set are constructed to axially translate into and away from the plane of the belt or chain. C2. Such as the gearbox of C0, in which the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set are constructed to pivot into and away from the plane of the belt or chain. C3. Such as the gearbox of C2, wherein the outer gear of the first gear set includes a plurality of pivotable outer sections arranged in pairs with the inner sections, and each pair of outer and inner sections is mounted to a common hinge , So that the inner section of the pair pivots away from the plane so that the outer section of the pair automatically pivots into the plane. C4. A gearbox such as C2, wherein each of the sections of the inner gear has a separate pin protruding laterally from an inner side surface; and The actuator of the shift system includes a shift wedge that can be switched between: (A) A first configuration in which a first ramp surface of the wedge is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section leaves the plane, so that The pin is rotated into the first ramp surface to be constructed to push the section into the plane, and (B) A second configuration in which a second ramp surface of the wedge is in line with the pin of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section is in the plane, such that Rotating the pin into the second ramp surface is constructed to push the section away from the plane. C5. A gearbox such as C2, wherein each of the inner gears of the second gear set includes a plurality of pivotable sections. C6. As in the C5 gearbox, the actuator of the shift system further includes a second shift wedge configured to pivot the sections of the inner gear of the second gear set. C7. The gearbox of any one of paragraphs C0 to C6, wherein the first gear set, the second gear set, and the transmission belt or chain are enclosed in a housing. C8. The gearbox of any one of paragraphs C0 to C2, wherein an outer gear of the first gear set can be nested together with the inner gear. C9. Such as the C8 gearbox, where the outer gear is a non-segmented gear. D0. A vehicle transmission system, which includes: A rotatable gear coupled to a continuous chain or belt defining a plane, the gear is divided into a plurality of pivotable sections so that an outer edge of each of the pivotable sections can be converted Into and out of the plane; A plurality of segment actuators, each of the segment actuators can rotate together with one of the pivotable segments and be coupled to one of the pivotable segments A separate A linear actuator coupled to a toggle lever, wherein the linear actuator is constructed to switch the toggle lever between: (A) A first position in which a first inclined surface of the toggle lever is placed in a path of the section actuator of each section when the section leaves the plane of the chain or belt, So that the section actuator is rotated into the first ramp surface to push the section into the plane, and (B) A second position in which a second ramp of the toggle lever is placed in the path of the section actuator when the section is in the plane of the chain or belt, so that the section is rotated The segment actuator pushes the segment away from the plane into the second ramp surface. D1. A transmission system such as D0, wherein the linear actuator does not rotate relative to the rotatable gear. D2. For the transmission system of paragraph D0 or D1, each of the segment actuators includes a slider coupled to the respective segment by a hinge, and each slider has two partitions The protrusions, wherein the toggle lever is constructed to selectively interact with the protrusions to translate the slider and pivot the section. D3. The transmission system of D2, wherein the sliding member is arranged in a guide plate constructed to rotate with the rotatable gear. D4. A transmission system such as D2 or D3, in which each hinge includes a pin that can move laterally in a slot. D5. The transmission system of any one of paragraphs D0 to D4, wherein the toggle lever is coupled to the linear actuator by a lever arm, so that the linear motion of the linear actuator is converted into the pivot of the toggle lever sports. D6. The transmission system of any one of paragraphs D0 to D5, wherein the linear actuator is controlled by an electronic controller. Advantages, features and benefits

The different specific examples and examples of gearbox systems described herein provide several advantages over known solutions for shifting gear ratios for bicycles. For example, the illustrative specific examples and examples described herein allow for lower weight and greater flexibility in gear selection relative to known systems.

In addition, and among other benefits, the illustrative specific examples and examples described herein allow for at least as many gear ratios in known systems (eg, 12 speeds) in a smaller package.

In addition, and among other benefits, the illustrative specific examples and examples described herein allow for simpler and/or easier-to-operate gearboxes compared to known systems.

In addition, and among other benefits, the illustrative specific examples and examples described herein allow for the selective installation of gear sets with different numbers of gears in the gearbox. Therefore, a gear set with more gears or fewer gears can be installed as needed. For example, a gear set with fewer gears can be used when lighter weight is required, and a gear set with more gears can be used when a larger number of gear ratios are required.

No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all specific examples and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages. in conclusion

The above disclosure may cover multiple different instances with independent utility. Although each of these examples has been disclosed in a preferred form, the specific specific examples disclosed and described herein should not be considered in a restrictive sense, because many variations are possible. To the extent that the title of each chapter is used in the present invention, these titles are for organizational purposes only. The subject matter of the present invention includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or characteristics disclosed herein. The following patent applications specifically point out certain combinations and sub-combinations that are considered novel and non-obvious. Other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements, and/or characteristics may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this application or related applications. The scope of these patent applications, whether they are broader, narrower, equal or different from the scope of the original patent application, are also deemed to be included in the subject matter of the present invention.

100: gearbox 102: Shell 104: crank 106: Spindle 108: The first gear set 110: Shift system 112: The first chain 114: second gear set 116: Counter shaft 117A: Bearing 117B: Bearing 118: The third gear set 120: second chain 122: fourth gear set 123: output shaft 124: Chain Link 124': chain link 126: Controller 128: The third chain 200: gearbox 202: Shell 204: first crank arm 205: crank screw 206: Spindle 206A: Flange 206B: Flange 207A: Bearing 207B: Bearing 208: The first gear set 208A: Segmented gear 208B: Segmented gear 209: Hinge part 210: Shift system 211: pin 212: The first chain 214: second gear set 214A: Segmented gear 214B: Non-section sprocket 215: Hinge part 216: Counter shaft 216A: Flange 216B: flange 217: pin 218: Third Gear Set 218A: Segmented gear 218B: Non-section sprocket 219: Hinge part 220: second chain 221: Hinge part 222: The fourth gear set 222A: Segmented gear 222B: Non-section sprocket 223: output shaft 224: Chain Link 225A: Bearing 226: pin 227: pin 232: Chain Tensioner 234: Chain Tensioner 236: Idler 238: Gear 240: putter 242: Idler 244: Gear 246: Putter 248: shift lever 250: shift wedge 252: The first side 254: second side 256: Hinge Organizer 258: Hinge Organizer 260: Hinge Organizer 262: Hinge Organizer 300: Gear system 308: first gear set 308A: Segmented gear 308B: Big tooth 312: First Transmission Belt 314: second gear set 314A: Segmented gear 314B: Non-section sprocket 318: Third Gear Set 318A: Segmented gear 318B: Non-section sprocket 320: second drive belt 322: Fourth Gear Set 322A: Segmented gear 322B: Non-section sprocket 332: The first belt tensioner 334: Second belt tensioner 336: idler 337: gear 338: Adjustable Gear 339: mounting bracket 340: putter 342: Single idler 344: Gear 346: Putter 400: gearbox 402: Shell 404: first crank arm 405: crank screw 406: Spindle 406A: Flange 406B: flange 407: Outer Sheath 407A: Bearing 407B: Bearing 408: first gear set 408A: Segmented gear 408B: Segmented gear 409: Hinge part 410: Shift system 411: hinged knuckle 412: First Chain 414: second gear set 414A: Segmented gear 414B: Non-section sprocket 415: Hinge part 416: Countershaft 416A: Flange 416B: Flange 417: hinged knuckle 417A: Bearing 417B: Bearing 418: Third Gear Set 418A: Segmented gear 418B: Non-section sprocket 419: Hinge part 420: second chain 421: Hinge part 422: Fourth Gear Set 422A: Segmented gear 422B: Unsegmented sprocket 423: output shaft 424: Chain Link 425: Bearing 426: Hinge Knuckle 427: Hinge Knuckle 432: Chain Tensioner 434: Chain Tensioner 436: idler 437: Idler 438: Gear 439: Adjustable mounting bracket 440: putter 442: idler 443: Stationary gear 444: gear 446: Putter 447: diagonal brace clutch 448: Actuator 449: mounting plate 450: toggle 451: Shift Slider 452: The first protrusion 453: Guide Board 454: second protrusion 455: Hinge 456: Hinge Organizer 457: hinge pin 458: Hinge Organizer 459: keep spring 460: Hinge Organizer 461: Leverage 462: Hinge Organizer 500: gearbox 510: Shift system 548: Actuator 550: toggle 551: Shift Slider 552: The first protrusion 553: Guide Board 554: second protrusion 555: Pivot 556: first side 558: second side 559: Gear Section 560: Pivot 561: Leverage 562: Extension 564: Aperture 566: pin 600: Chain Tensioner 602: First Gear 604: second gear 606: Chain 608: keep the rod

[Figure 1] is a schematic diagram of an illustrative gearbox according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 2] is an isometric view of a gearbox which is an example of the gearbox depicted in Figure 1.

[Figure 3] is an isometric view of the gearbox of Figure 2 with part of the housing removed.

[Figure 4] is a top view of the gearbox of Figure 2 with the outer shell removed.

[Fig. 5] is an illustrative gear section in a pivot position and a shift wedge in a first position according to aspects of the present invention.

[Figure 6] is an illustrative gear section in a pivot position and a shift wedge in a second position according to aspects of the present invention.

[Fig. 7] An illustrative gear section in a plane position and a shift wedge in a second position according to aspects of the present invention.

[Figure 8] is an illustrative gear section in a plane position and a shift wedge in a first position according to aspects of the present invention.

[Fig. 9] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 2 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 4.

[Fig. 10] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 2 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 4.

[Figure 11] is an exploded view of the gearbox in Figure 2.

[Fig. 12] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 2 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 3.

[Figure 13] is an isometric view of the secondary shaft according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 14] It is an isometric view of the countershaft of Figure 13 with a gear set attached to it.

[Figure 15] is an exploded view of a part of the gearbox of Figure 2.

[Fig. 16] is a partial exploded view of the part of Fig. 15.

[Figure 17] is a front view of the first gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Fig. 18] is a rear view of the gear set of Fig. 17.

[Figure 19] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 17.

[Figure 20] is a front view of a second gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 21] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 20.

[Figure 22] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 20.

[Figure 23] is a front view of a third gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 24] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 23.

[Figure 25] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 23.

[Figure 26] is a front view of a fourth gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 27] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 26.

[Figure 28] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 26.

[Fig. 29] is a part of an illustrative shifting system meshed with a gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 30] is a cross-sectional view of a belt drive gear system according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Fig. 31] is a cross-sectional view of the belt drive gear system of Fig. 30. [Fig.

[Figure 32] is a front view of the first belt drive gear set of the gear system of Figure 30.

[Figure 33] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 32.

[Figure 34] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 32.

[Figure 35] is a front view of the second belt drive gear set of the gear system of Figure 30.

[Figure 36] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 35.

[Figure 37] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 35.

[Figure 38] is a front view of the third belt drive gear set of the gear system of Figure 30.

[Figure 39] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 38.

[Figure 40] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 38.

[Figure 41] is a front view of the fourth belt drive gear set of the gear system of Figure 30.

[Figure 42] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 41.

[Figure 43] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 41.

[Figure 44] is an isometric view of a gearbox which is an example of the gearbox depicted in Figure 1.

[Figure 45] is an isometric view of the gearbox of Figure 44 with the crank arm removed.

[Fig. 46] is a top view of the gearbox of Fig. 44 with the casing removed.

[Fig. 47] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 44 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 46. [Fig.

[Fig. 48] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 44 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 46. [Fig.

[Fig. 49] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 44 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 45. [Fig.

[Fig. 50] is a cross-sectional view of the gearbox of Fig. 44 taken along the line indicated in Fig. 45. [Fig.

[FIG. 51] is a cross-sectional view of an illustrative shifting system used with the gearbox of FIG. 44.

[Fig. 52] is a cross-sectional view of the shift system of Fig. 51 with the mounting plate removed.

[Figure 53] is a cross-sectional view of the shift system of Figure 51 used with a single gear set.

[FIG. 54] An isometric view of the shift system of FIG. 53 further depicting an illustrative gear set.

[Fig. 55] is a front view of the shift system of Fig. 53 further depicting the gear set.

[Fig. 56] is a front view of an illustrative shift slide and toggle lever of the shift system of Fig. 9. [Fig.

[Figure 57] is an isometric view of the shift slider and toggle lever of Figure 56.

[Fig. 58] is a front view of an illustrative first gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 59] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 58.

[Figure 60] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 58.

[Fig. 61] is a front view of an illustrative second gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 62] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 61.

[Figure 63] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 61.

[Figure 64] is a front view of an illustrative third gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 65] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 64.

[Figure 66] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 64.

[Fig. 67] is a front view of an illustrative fourth gear set according to an aspect of the present invention.

[Figure 68] is a rear view of the gear set of Figure 67.

[Figure 69] is an isometric view of the gear set of Figure 67.

[Figure 70] Depicts an illustrative shifting system used with the transmission of the present invention.

[Fig. 71] Depicts the shift system of Fig. 70 used with a single gear set in the first position.

[Fig. 72] Depicts the shift system of Fig. 70 used with a single gear set in the second position.

[Fig. 73] is another view of the shifting system of Fig. 70 in the first position corresponding to Fig. 71. [Fig.

[Fig. 74] is another view of the shifting system of Fig. 70 in the second position corresponding to Fig. 72. [Fig.

[Figure 75] is a cross-sectional view of an illustrative chain tensioner used with the gearbox of the present invention.

100: gearbox

102: Shell

104: crank

106: Spindle

108: The first gear set

110: Shift system

112: The first chain

114: second gear set

116: Counter shaft

116': counter shaft

118: The third gear set

120: second chain

122: fourth gear set

123: output shaft

124: Chain Link

124': chain link

126: Controller

128: The third chain

130: output system

Claims (18)

A vehicle transmission system, which includes: A rotatable gear coupled to a continuous chain or belt defining a plane, the gear is divided into a plurality of pivotable sections so that an outer edge of each of the pivotable sections can be converted Into and out of the plane; A plurality of segment actuators, each of the segment actuators can rotate together with one of the pivotable segments and be coupled to one of the pivotable segments A separate A linear actuator coupled to a toggle lever, wherein the linear actuator is constructed to switch the toggle lever between: (A) A first position in which a first inclined surface of the toggle lever is placed in a path of the section actuator of each section when the section leaves the plane of the chain or belt, So that the section actuator is rotated into the first ramp surface to push the section into the plane, and (B) A second position in which a second ramp of the toggle lever is placed in the path of the section actuator when the section is in the plane of the chain or belt, so that the section is rotated The segment actuator pushes the segment away from the plane into the second ramp surface. Such as the transmission system of claim 1, wherein the linear actuator does not rotate relative to the rotatable gear. Such as the transmission system of claim 1, each of the segment actuators includes a slider coupled to the respective segment by a hinge, each slider having two spaced apart protrusions, The toggle lever is constructed to selectively interact with the protrusions to translate the slider and pivot the section. Such as the transmission system of claim 3, wherein the sliding member is arranged in a guide plate configured to rotate with the rotatable gear. Such as the transmission system of claim 3, wherein each hinge includes a pin that can move laterally in a slot. The transmission system of claim 1, wherein the toggle link is coupled to the linear actuator via a lever arm, so that the linear motion of the linear actuator is converted into the pivotal motion of the toggle link. Such as the transmission system of claim 1, wherein the linear actuator is controlled by an electronic controller. A gearbox for a vehicle, the gearbox includes: One drive spindle; A first gear set which is coaxially fastened to the main shaft so that the first gear set rotates with the main shaft, wherein an inner gear of the first gear set includes a plurality of pivotable inner sections, the Each of the pivotable inner sections is coupled to a separate actuator; A second gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to a counter shaft spaced apart from the main shaft and parallel to the main shaft so that the counter shaft rotates with the second gear set; A continuous first transmission belt or chain that couples the first gear set to the second gear set so that the first gear set drives the second gear set and the first transmission belt or chain defines a first plane, wherein Each of the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set can pivot into and away from the first plane; A third gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to the counter shaft and spaced apart from the second gear set so that the third gear set rotates with the counter shaft; A fourth gear set having one or more gears coupled to a sleeve coaxially installed above the main shaft, so that the sleeve rotates independently of the main shaft; A continuous second drive belt or chain that couples the third gear set to the second gear set so that the third gear set drives the fourth gear set and the second drive belt or chain defines parallel to the first plane One of the second plane; A chain ring fastened to the sleeve so that the chain ring rotates with the fourth gear set; and A gear shifting system, which includes a first gear shift toggle lever that can be switched between: (A) A first position in which a first ramp surface of the toggle lever is placed on the actuator of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section leaves the first plane In a path of, so that the actuator is rotated into the first inclined plane to be constructed to push the section into the first plane, and (B) A second position in which a second ramp surface of the toggle lever is placed in the actuation of each section of the inner gear of the first gear set when the section is in the first plane In the path of the actuator, rotating the actuator into the second inclined surface is constructed to push the section away from the first plane. Such as the gearbox of claim 8, the actuator of each section includes a slider coupled to the section and having two spaced apart protrusions, wherein the toggle lever is constructed to selectively interact with the The protrusions interact to translate the slider and push the section into and away from the first plane. Such as the gearbox of claim 8, wherein the toggle lever is coupled to a linear actuator such that the linear actuator is constructed to switch the toggle lever between the first position and the second position. Such as the gearbox of claim 10, wherein the toggle lever is coupled to the linear actuator via a lever arm, so that the linear movement of the linear actuator is converted into the pivotal movement of the toggle lever. Such as the gearbox of claim 10, which further includes an electronic controller configured to control the linear actuator. Such as the gearbox of claim 8, wherein the first gear set, the second gear set and the first transmission belt or chain are enclosed in a housing. A gearbox for a vehicle, the gearbox includes: One drive spindle; A first gear set that is coaxially fastened to the main shaft so that the first gear set rotates with the main shaft. The first gear set includes an outer gear and an inner gear, wherein the inner gear is physically divided into plural numbers Sections; A second gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to a counter shaft spaced apart from the main shaft and parallel to the main shaft so that the counter shaft rotates with the second gear set; A continuous first transmission belt or chain that couples the first gear set to the second gear set so that the first gear set drives the second gear set and the first transmission belt or chain defines a first plane, wherein The sections of the inner gear of the first gear set can each move into and away from the first plane; A third gear set having one or more gears coaxially fastened to the counter shaft and spaced apart from the second gear set so that the third gear set rotates with the counter shaft; A fourth gear set having one or more gears coupled to a sleeve coaxially installed above the main shaft, so that the sleeve rotates independently of the main shaft; A continuous second transmission belt or chain that couples the third gear set to the second gear set so that the third gear set drives the fourth gear set; A chain ring fastened to the sleeve so that the chain ring rotates with the fourth gear set; and A gear shifting system including a pivoting toggle lever configured to interact with a section actuator of each of the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set , So as to selectively convert each of the sections of the inner gear of the first gear set into and away from the first plane, so that a gear ratio of the gearbox can be changed without Displace the first transmission belt or chain out of the first plane. Such as the gearbox of claim 14, wherein each of the segment actuators includes a slider coupled to the segment and having two spaced apart protrusions, wherein the toggle lever is constructed to selectively The ground interacts with the protrusions to translate the slider and push the section into and away from the first plane. Such as the gearbox of claim 14, wherein the toggle lever is coupled to a linear actuator such that the linear actuator is constructed to switch the toggle lever between the first position and the second position. Such as the gearbox of claim 16, wherein the toggle lever is coupled to the linear actuator via a lever arm, so that the linear movement of the linear actuator is converted into the pivotal movement of the toggle lever. Such as the gearbox of claim 16, which further includes an electronic controller configured to control the linear actuator.

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