TW202421493A - Operating device for human-powered vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

An operating device includes a base member, a movable member and a first operating member. The base member is configured to be coupled to a human-powered vehicle. The movable member is movably mounted with respect to the base member. The movable member includes a positioning ratchet and a cable takeup member. The first operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member to pivot about a first pivot axis to move the movable member, and is pivotally coupled to the base member about a second pivot axis different from the first pivot axis in a state where the movable member remains stationary. The base member includes an attachment portion to which a restricting member can be mounted. The restricting member is configured to restrict a movement range of the positioning ratchet from a first movement range to a second movement range different from the first movement range.

Description

Operating device for human-driven vehicle

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

Generally, a human-powered bicycle has one or more components that are operated by the rider using one or more operating devices for operating the one or more components. There are many types of operating devices. For example, the operating device can be mechanically, hydraulically and/or electrically connected to the component(s). Typically, a human-powered bicycle has a handlebar with an operating device on each side so that the rider's right hand can operate one of the operating devices and the rider's left hand can operate another operating device. Some human-powered bicycles have front and rear transmissions and front and rear brakes. In this case, one operating device operates one transmission and one brake, while the other operating device operates another transmission and another brake. Some operating devices use a single operating member to perform both upshift and downshift operations, while other operating devices use a first operating member to perform upshift operations and a second operating member to perform downshift operations. Also, some operating devices integrate the brake into one of the operating members. In the case of a road bicycle with a dropped handlebar, the operating device has a lever for performing both shifting and braking. An example of such an operating device is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,056,597 (filed by Shimano Inc.).

This application claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2022 131 645.9 filed on November 29, 2022. The entire disclosure of German Patent Application No. 10 2022 131 645.9 is incorporated herein by reference.

In general, the present invention relates to various features of an operating device for a human-powered vehicle. As used herein, the term "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle that can be propelled by at least human power, but does not include vehicles that use only power other than human power. In particular, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as a driving force are not included in human-powered vehicles. Human-powered vehicles are generally assumed to be miniaturized, lightweight vehicles that sometimes do not require a license to travel on public roads. There is no limit to the number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes and recumbent bikes, and electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes).

In view of the state of the known technology and according to a first aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The operating device mainly includes a base member, a movable member and a first operating member. The base member is configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle. The movable member is movably fixed relative to the base member. The movable member includes a positioning ratchet and a cable tightening member. The cable tightening member is coupled to the positioning ratchet so as to move with the positioning ratchet. The first operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member so as to pivot around a first pivot axis to move the movable member. In a state where the movable member remains stationary, the first operating member is pivotally coupled to the base member around a second pivot axis different from the first pivot axis. The base member includes an attachment portion configured such that a limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion. The limiting member includes a limiting portion configured to limit the moving range of the movable member from a first moving range to a second moving range different from the first moving range. The limiting member is a member separated from the base member.

By using the operating device according to the first aspect, in an operating device having a first operating member that can be used to operate two separate components, the range of movement of the movable member can be easily changed between the first range of movement and the second range of movement. In addition, the operating device provides a greater degree of design freedom when designing other components operated by the operating device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the first aspect is configured so that when the operating device is in the first state, the movable member moves freely within the first moving range without contacting the limiting portion. When the operating device is in the second state, the moving range of the movable member is limited to move within the second moving range by contacting the limiting portion.

Using the operating device according to the second aspect, the limiting member can be easily changed between the first moving range and the second moving range by selectively changing the limiting portion between the first state and the second state.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the second aspect is configured so that the limiting portion is detachably fixed to the attachment portion. The limiting member is configured to be separated from the attachment portion when the operating device is in the first state. The limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion when the operating device is in the second state.

By using the operating device of the third aspect, the limiting portion can be removed when not needed.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The operating device includes a base member and a movable member. The base member is configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle. The movable member is movably fixed relative to the base member. The movable member includes a positioning ratchet and a cable tightening member. The cable tightening member is coupled to the positioning ratchet to move with the positioning ratchet. The base member includes an attachment portion, which is configured so that a limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion. The limiting member includes a limiting portion, which is configured to limit the moving range of the movable member from a first moving range to a second moving range different from the first moving range. When the operating device is in the first state, the movable member can move freely within the first range of movement without contacting the limiting portion. When the operating device is in the second state, the range of movement of the movable member is limited to movement within the second range of movement by contacting the limiting portion. The limiting member is configured to be detachably fixed to the attachment portion. The limiting member is configured to be separated from the attachment portion when the operating device is in the first state. The limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion when the operating device is in the second state.

Using the operating device of the fourth aspect, the limiting member can selectively move between the first state and the second state to change the moving range of the movable member between the first moving range and the second moving range in operating the operating device. In addition, the operating device provides a greater degree of design freedom when designing other components operated by the operating device.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the second aspect to the fourth aspect is configured so that when the operating device is in the first state, the limiting member is configured to be positioned at a first position relative to the base member. The limiting member is configured to be positioned at a second position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the second state. The first position is different from the second position.

By using the operating device according to the fifth aspect, the limiting member can be easily switched between the first state and the second state.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the fifth aspect is configured so that the limiting member is configured to be removed from the base member at the first position.

By using the operating device of the sixth aspect, the limiting member can be removed when the limiting member is not needed.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect further comprises a handle cover at least partially covering the base member. When the operating device is in the first state, the limiting member is not positioned between the base member and the handle cover from the base member at the first position.

When the operating device of the seventh aspect is used, when the rider grasps the base component, the grip cover provides a comfortable feeling for the rider's hand, and the grip cover covers the attachment portion of the base component.

By using the operating device according to the eighth aspect, the limiting member can be easily switched between the first state and the second state.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the fifth aspect to the seventh aspect is configured so that the limiting member is configured to be slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion.

Using the operating device according to the eighth aspect, the limiting member can selectively slide between the first state and the second state.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The operating device includes a base member and a movable member. The base member is configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle. The movable member is movably fixed relative to the base member. The movable member includes a positioning ratchet and a cable tightening member. The cable tightening member is coupled to the positioning ratchet to move with the positioning ratchet. The base member includes an attachment portion, which is configured so that a limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion. The limiting member includes a limiting portion, which is configured to limit the moving range of the movable member from a first moving range to a second moving range different from the first moving range. When the operating device is in a first state, the movable member can move freely within the first range of movement without contacting the limiting portion. When the operating device is in a second state, the range of movement of the movable member is limited to movement within the second range of movement by contacting the limiting portion. The limiting member is configured to be slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion. The limiting member is configured to be positioned at a first position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the first state. The limiting member is configured to be positioned at a second position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the second state. The first position is different from the second position.

Using the operating device of the ninth aspect, the limiting member can selectively slide between the first state and the second state to change the moving range of the movable member between the first moving range and the second moving range in operating the operating device.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the eighth aspect or the ninth aspect is configured so that the limiting member is configured to slide linearly relative to the attachment portion.

By using the operating device according to the tenth aspect, the limiting member can be easily switched between the first position and the second position.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the eighth aspect to the tenth aspect is configured so that the attachment portion includes one of a guide rail and a groove. The limiting portion includes the other of the guide rail and the groove. The guide rail is configured in the groove.

According to the operating device of the eleventh aspect, the limiting member can reliably and stably move between the first position and the second position.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the attachment portion includes the guide rail and a first opening configured to receive the limiting portion. The limiting portion includes the groove. The guide rail defines an edge of the first opening.

By using the operating device according to the twelfth aspect, the guide rail can be easily and economically configured to guide the limiting portion between the first position and the second position.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the eighth to twelfth aspects is configured so that the limiting member includes a base portion that can be touched by a user to move the limiting member between the first position and the second position.

Using the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the limiting member can be easily moved between the first position and the second position by the user.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the eighth aspect to the thirteenth aspect is configured so that the limiting member further includes a releasable contact with the adjacent portion of the attachment portion. The positioning portion is configured to contact the adjacent portion of the attachment portion to limit the movement of the limiting member toward the first position when the limiting member is in the second position.

By using the operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the limiting member can be easily maintained in the second position.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the twelfth aspect to the fourteenth aspect is configured so that the attachment portion includes a second opening, and the second opening is configured to pass a steel cable.

By using the operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, a cable can be easily configured to the operating device to operate a remote placement device.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the fifteenth aspect further includes a cover body, which is detachably coupled to the attachment portion and is used to at least partially cover the second opening of the attachment portion when the cover body is attached to the attachment portion.

Using the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the cover can protect the cable and fix the position of the cable relative to the base member.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect is configured so that the cover body includes a cable guide portion, which is configured to guide a cable relative to the base member.

Using the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, a steel cable can be reliably guided between the cover and the base member.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect or the seventeenth aspect is configured so that the cover includes a fixing portion for tying the cover to the base member.

Using the operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, when the user needs to access the cable, the cover can remain coupled to the base member.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect or the eighteenth aspect is configured so that when the operating device is in the second state, the limiting component further includes a fixing portion for fastening the limiting portion to the base component.

Using the operating device according to the nineteenth aspect, when the limiting portion is in the second aspect, the limiting member can remain coupled to the base member.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the third aspect, the fourth aspect or the nineteenth aspect further comprises a cover body, which is configured to be fixedly connected to the attachment portion. The cover body at least partially covers the attachment portion when the operating device is in the first state.

When the operating device according to the twentieth aspect is used and the operating device is in the first state, the cover body can be used to replace the limiting member to cover the attachment portion.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the third aspect, the fourth aspect, the nineteenth aspect or the twentieth aspect is configured so that, when the operating device is in the second state, the limiting member further includes a cable guide portion for guiding the cable relative to the base member.

Using the operating device according to the twenty-first aspect, when the limiting portion is in the second aspect, a steel cable can be guided relative to the base member.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the twenty-first aspect is configured so that the attachment portion includes a first opening and a second opening. The first opening is configured to engage the limiting portion, and the second opening is configured to engage the cable guide portion to pass a cable.

Using the operating device according to the twenty-second aspect, when in the second state, the limiting member can be received in the first opening to limit the movement of the movable member, and can reliably guide the cable to pass through the second opening.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the third aspect, the fourth aspect, the nineteenth aspect, the twentieth aspect, the twenty-first aspect or the twenty-second aspect is configured so that, when the operating device is in the second state, the limiting member further includes a positioning portion configured to position the limiting portion relative to the base member.

Using the operating device according to the twenty-third aspect, the limiting member can be properly positioned to the attachment portion.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the fifth aspect to the twenty-third aspect is configured so that, when the operating device is in the first state, the cable tightening member cannot contact the limiting portion, and when the operating device is in the second state, the cable tightening member can contact the limiting portion.

By using the operating device according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the limiting portion can be used to easily limit the moving range of the cable tightening member.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the ninth aspect to the twenty-fourth aspect is configured so that the positioning ratchet is pivotally fixed relative to the base member around a positioning ratchet axis. The cable tightening member and the positioning ratchet are axially positioned along the positioning ratchet axis.

By using the operating device according to the twenty-fifth aspect, the operating device can be easily configured in a miniaturized manner so that the size of the operating device does not increase.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the fifth aspect to the twenty-fifth aspect is configured so that the movable member includes a first adjacent surface, which is configured to selectively contact a first static adjacent surface of the operating device to establish a first stop position defining a first end of the first moving range and a first end of the second moving range. The movable member includes a second adjacent surface, which is configured to selectively contact the limiting portion when the operating device is in the second state to establish a second stop position defining a second end of the second moving range. The second adjacent surface is configured to selectively contact a second static adjacent surface of the operating device to establish a third stop position defining a second end of the first moving range.

By using the operating device according to the twenty-sixth aspect, the first moving range and the second moving range of the movable component can be easily established.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the twenty-sixth aspect further includes a deflection member that deflects the movable member toward the first stop position.

By using the operating device according to the twenty-seventh aspect, the deflection force of the deflection member can reduce the force required by the user to move the movable member toward the first stop position.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the twenty-seventh aspect further comprises a second operating component. The second operating component is pivotally coupled to the base component. The second operating component is operatively coupled to the base component.

By using the operating device according to the twenty-eighth aspect, the movable member can be selectively operated easily and quickly by using the first operating member and the second operating member.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the twenty-eighth aspect further comprises a first pawl and a second pawl. The first pawl is configured to move the positioning ratchet along a first direction as the first operating member moves from a first seated position to a first operating position. The second pawl is configured to move the positioning ratchet along a second direction as the second operating member moves from a second seated position to a second operating position.

By using the operating device according to the twenty-ninth aspect, the first operating member and the second operating member can be used to effectively move the positioning ratchet.

According to a thirtieth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the twenty-ninth aspect is configured so that, when the first operating member is in the first operating position, the first operating member is configured to operate a braking device.

Using the operating device according to the thirtieth aspect, the operating device can use the first operating member to operate both the movable member and the brake device.

According to a thirty-first aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the thirtieth aspect is configured so that the operating device according to the fifth aspect further includes the limiting component.

Using the operating device according to the thirty-first aspect, the limiting member can be used to easily change between the first moving range and the second moving range.

According to a thirty-second aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first aspect to the thirty-first aspect is configured such that the base member includes a coupling end, a free end, and a gripping portion. The coupling end is configured to be coupled to the handlebar. The free end is opposite to the coupling end. The gripping portion is disposed between the coupling end and the free end.

When using the operating device according to the thirty-second aspect, the operating device can be used together with a downward curved handle.

In addition, those skilled in the art will understand other purposes, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed operating device from the following implementation methods combined with the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiments of the disclosed operating device.

Selected specific embodiments will now be explained with reference to a number of drawings. Those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (such as the bicycle field) will appreciate that the following description of specific embodiments is for illustration only and is not intended to limit the present invention as defined by the scope of the appended patent claims and their appendices.

Please refer to FIG. 1 , which partially illustrates a human-powered vehicle V, wherein an operating device 10 is provided for the human-powered vehicle V according to a first specific embodiment. In the first specific embodiment, the human-powered vehicle V is a bicycle, and the operating device 10 is a bicycle operating device. As shown in FIG. 1 , in the installed state, the operating device 10 is coupled to a handlebar H in the installed state. Herein, the handlebar H is a curved handlebar pivotably coupled to the lower portion of the frame F of the human-powered vehicle V. The human-powered vehicle V has a center plane CP that vertically divides the frame F of the human-powered vehicle V into two equal parts in the longitudinal direction (front-rear direction). The center plane CP passes through the center of the frame F in the width direction (left-right direction) of the frame F. Therefore, the center plane CP divides the left side and the right side of the human-powered vehicle V. The following directional terms "front", "rear", "forward", "backward", "left", "right", "lateral", "longitudinal", "upward" and "downward" and any other similar directional terms mean that these directions refer to directions determined based on the rider sitting upright on the seat of the human-powered vehicle V and facing the handlebars H of the human-powered vehicle V.

The operating device 10 is mounted to the downwardly curved portion of the handlebar H. The operating device 10 is a right-hand side operating device operated by the rider's right hand. Herein, the human-powered vehicle V further includes an additional operating device 12. As shown in FIG. 1 , in the mounted state, the additional operating device 12 is coupled to the handlebar H. The additional operating device 12 is mounted to the downwardly curved portion of the handlebar H. The additional operating device 12 is a left-hand side operating device operated by the rider's left hand.

In the first specific embodiment, the operating device 10 and the additional operating device 12 are configured to perform both a braking operation and a shifting operation. Therefore, the operating device 10 and the additional operating device 12 are configured as a road brake (i.e., an operating device having both a shifting function and a braking function).

In the case of a human-driven vehicle V, the operating device 10 is operably coupled to a first vehicle component BC1 (e.g., a rear hydraulic brake device) via a hydraulic hose H1, and is operably coupled to a second vehicle component BC2 (e.g., a rear transmission device) via a known control cable C1 (e.g., a Bowden cable). Similarly, the additional operating device 12 is operably coupled to a third vehicle component (e.g., a front hydraulic brake device) via a hydraulic hose H2, and is operably coupled to a fourth vehicle component (e.g., a front transmission device) via a known control cable C2 (e.g., a Bowden cable). The hydraulic hoses H1, H2 and the control cables C1, C2 are conventional structures commonly used in the field of human-powered vehicles. Each of the control cables C1 and C2 has an inner cable slidably arranged inside an outer shell. In contrast, in a broad sense, the operating device 10 and the additional operating device 12 can be used to selectively operate other components of the human-powered vehicle V. The additional operating device 12 is basically a mirror image of the operating device 10, except that the operating device 10 is configured to change more gears than the additional operating device 12. Therefore, the additional operating device 12 will not be discussed in detail.

Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5 , the configuration of the operating device 10 will be discussed in more detail. Basically, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 5 , the operating device 10 includes a base member 14. The base member 14 is configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle V. In a first specific embodiment, the base member 14 is configured to be coupled to the handlebars H. Specifically, the base member 14 includes a bracket or body 16 and a fixing member 18.

Herein, preferably, the main body 16 is made of a resin material. For example, the main body 16 is made of a hard plastic material (resin), which can be reinforced with fibers as needed and/or desired. The resin of the main body 16 is a rigid material that is suitable for the rider to grip and lean on while riding. The resin of the main body 16 is also lightweight, so that the overall weight of the operating device 10 can be minimized. However, if needed and/or desired, the main body 16 can be made of other suitable materials.

Please refer to Figure 8. In the first specific embodiment, the main body 16 of the base member 14 includes a coupling end 16a, a free end 16b and a gripping portion 16c. The coupling end 16a is configured to be coupled to the handlebar H. Specifically, the coupling end 16a has a fixing component 18 for fixing to the handlebar H. The free end 16b is relative to the coupling end 16a. The free end 16b can also be called a distal end of the base member 14. The main body 16 of the base member 14 further includes a round head portion 16d disposed adjacent to the free end 16b. In other words, the round head portion 16d is a part of the distal end of the base member 14. The round head portion 16d is an upward protrusion, which protrudes upward relative to the gripping portion 16c when the base member 14 is fixed to the curved portion of the handlebar H. The gripping portion 16c is disposed between the coupling end 16a and the free end 16b. The gripping portion 16c is sized to be gripped and leaned on by the rider during riding. Therefore, the rider grips the gripping portion 16c between the coupling end 16a and the round head portion 16d. The coupling end 16a, the free end 16b, the gripping portion 16c and the round head portion 16d may be a single-piece component, or may be made of multiple pieces fastened together. Herein, the base component 14 further includes a bottom plate 20 removably attached to the gripping portion 16c. The bottom plate 20 is removably coupled to the main body 16 to access the internal space of the main body 16. Herein, the base component 14 further includes a cable guide component 21. The cable guide member 21 is disposed in the inner cavity of the main body 16 and is used to guide the inner wire of the control cable C1 into the inner cavity of the main body 16 .

The fixing component 18 is configured to be fixed to the bicycle handlebar H. In the first specific embodiment, the fixing component 18 is configured to be fixed to the right side of the handlebar H. Alternatively, the fixing component 18 is configured to be fixed to the left side of the bicycle handlebar H as needed and/or desired. The fixing component 18 is attached to the main body 16 so that the fixing component 18 is disposed in the handlebar receiving recess 16a1 of the coupling end 16a. When fixed to the handlebar H by the fixing component 18, the main body 16 is a stationary member. Since the main body 16 is fixed to the handlebar H by the fixing component 18, the base member 14 constitutes a fixed member relative to the handlebar H. The fixing component 18 is preferably a known belt clip or a similar structure used in automobiles. 5 and 9 , the fixing member 18 includes a clamping strap 18A and a fastener 18B (e.g., a nut and a bolt) for clamping the handlebar H. Since the fixing member 18 can be any suitable fixing structure, the fixing member 18 will not be discussed or illustrated in further detail here.

As described above, the rider sometimes grips the main body 16 and leans on the main body 16 during riding. In view of this, it is desired that the rider's hands feel comfortable when the rider grips the main body 16. Therefore, the main body 16 is preferably covered by a grip cover 22 (also referred to as a base cover). The grip cover 22 partially covers the main body 16, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . Herein, the grip cover 22 covers the grip portion 16 c and also partially covers the round head portion 16 d. In this way, the grip cover 22 provides a cushion for the grip portion 16 c of the base member 14 and also provides the base member 14 with an attractive appearance. In this case, the grip cover 22 is made of an elastic material. For example, the grip cover 22 is made of an elastic rubber material. The grip cover 22 has a tubular structure so that the grip cover 22 stretches on the base member 14. In particular, the grip cover 22 stretches on the grip portion 16c of the main body 16 and the round head portion 16d of the main body 16. In other words, the grip cover 22 is an elastic member such as rubber, which partially covers the outer surface of the base member 14 in the area of the grip portion 16c and the round head portion 16d.

1 to 3, the operating device 10 is configured to operate the first vehicle component BC1 and the second vehicle component BC2. Herein, in the first embodiment, as described above, the operating device 10 is a bicycle operating device configured to perform a braking operation and a shifting operation. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the first vehicle component BC1 is a braking device such as a hydraulic brake caliper, and the second vehicle component BC2 is a shifting device such as a cable-operated transmission or an inner gear hub. In the first specific embodiment, as described above, the first vehicle component BC1 is a hydraulically operated device such as a rear hydraulic brake device, and the second vehicle component BC2 is a cable operated device such as a rear cable operated transmission device.

2 and 3, the operating device 10 further includes a first operating member 26. In the first specific embodiment, the first operating member 26 is configured to operate both the first vehicle assembly BC1 and the second vehicle assembly BC2. In the first specific embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes a second operating member 28. The second operating member 28 is configured to operate only the second vehicle assembly BC2. As described below, the first operating member 26 is configured to perform a pulling operation to pull the inner cable of the first control cable C1 relative to the base member 14, and the second operating member 28 is configured to perform a releasing operation to release the inner cable of the first control cable C1 relative to the base member 14.

According to the structure of the operating device 10, as described below, the second operating member 28 can be omitted, and the first operating member 26 can be used to perform both the pulling operation and the releasing operation. The first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28 are both configured to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 to perform the shifting operation described below. In addition, the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28 are pivotally fixedly connected to the main body 24 as a whole to pivot about the second pivot axis A2 to perform the braking operation described below. The structure and operation of the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28 are disclosed in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 9,056,597 (assigned to Shimano Inc.).

Referring to FIGS. 2 to 7 , the basic operation of the first operating member 26 will now be discussed. Herein, as shown in FIG. 6 , the first operating member 26 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot about the first pivot axis A1. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3 , the first operating member 26 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot about the second pivot axis A2. The second pivot axis A2 is different from the first pivot axis A1. More specifically, when viewed from above in a direction perpendicular to the first pivot axis A1 and the second pivot axis A2, the first pivot axis A1 extends perpendicular to the second pivot axis A2. The first operating member 26 is configured to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 along the first operating direction OD1 between a seated position (FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) and a first operating position (FIG. 6). In the illustrated specific embodiment, the shifting operation is performed by pivoting the first operating member 26 about the first pivot axis A1 from the seated position (FIG. 4 and FIG. 5) toward the first operating position (FIG. 6). Specifically, the rider pivots the first operating member 26 about the first pivot axis A1 along the first operating direction OD1 toward the center plane CP to perform the shifting operation. This pivoting movement of the first operating member 26 from the seated position to the first operating position pulls the inner cable of the control cable C1. Therefore, the first operating member 26 acts like a cable pull rod.

On the other hand, the first operating member 26 is configured to pivot about the second pivot axis A2 along the second operating direction OD2 between the seated position (FIG. 2) and the operating position (FIG. 3). In the illustrated specific embodiment, the braking operation is performed by pivoting the first operating member 26 about the second pivot axis A2 from the seated position (FIG. 2) toward the operating position (FIG. 3). In other words, the first operating member 26 pivots relative to the base member 14 along a braking plane that is transverse to the shift plane of the first operating member 26 to perform the braking operation. Therefore, the first operating member 26 is configured to operate the brake device (e.g., the first vehicle component BC1) when the first operating member 26 is in the first operating position. Thus, the first operating member 26 functions as a brake lever in addition to a shift lever.

The term "seated position" used in this specification refers to a state in which the movable component (e.g., the first operating member 26) remains stationary, and no user or other external force intervention (e.g., holding the first operating member 26) is required to establish a state corresponding to the seated position. As such, the term "seated position" is also referred to as a non-operating position. The terms "operating position" and "actuated position" used herein refer to a position in which the movable component has been moved by a user from a seated position.

10 and 11 , the first operating member 26 includes a fixed portion 30 and a lever portion 32. The lever portion 32 is pivotally attached to the fixed portion 30 via a first pivot axis 34. The first pivot axis 34 defines the first pivot axis A1. The fixed portion 30 is pivotally attached to the base member 14 via a second pivot axis 36. The second pivot axis 36 defines the second pivot axis A2. In this way, the first operating member 26 can pivot around the first pivot axis 34 and move relative to the base member 14 to perform a gear shift operation, and can pivot around the second pivot axis 36 and move relative to the base member 14 to perform a braking operation. The fixed portion 30 is biased against the base member 14 to establish a seated position of the fixed portion 30 of the first operating member 26 relative to the base member 14. The rod portion 32 is biased against the fixed portion 30 to establish a seated position of the rod portion 32 of the first operating member 26 relative to the base member 14. Therefore, the first operating member 26 is in the form of an operating rod. In a first specific embodiment, the first operating member 26 constitutes both a brake rod and a shift rod. In the first specific embodiment, the first operating member 26 is a trigger-type rod that is biased toward the seated position in a known manner. In other words, after operating the first operating member 26 to perform a shift operation, when the rider releases the first operating member 26, the first operating member 26 automatically returns to the seated position. Likewise, after operating the first operating member 26 to perform a brake operation, when the rider releases the first operating member 26, the first operating member 26 automatically returns to the seated position.

As shown in FIG. 7 , the second operating member 28 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14. Herein, in a first specific embodiment, the second operating member 28 is pivotally coupled to the first operating member 26. In particular, the second operating member 28 is pivotally coupled to the fixed portion 30 via a first pivot axis 34. Therefore, the second operating member 28 pivots along a third operating direction OD3 on the first pivot axis 34 to move relative to the base member 14 to perform a shifting operation. The third operating direction OD3 is substantially parallel to the first operating direction OD1. The second operating member 28 performs only a shifting operation. Herein, the second operating member 28 is configured as a cable release lever. In the first specific embodiment, the second operating member 28 is a trigger-type pull rod that is biased toward the seated position in a conventional manner. In other words, after operating the second operating member 28 to change gears, when the rider releases the second operating member 28, the second operating member 28 automatically returns to the seated position.

With the configuration of the first specific embodiment, when the first operating member 26 is operated in the first operating direction OD1 to perform a cable pulling operation, the second operating member 28 moves with the first operating member 26. In addition, with this configuration, when the first operating member 26 is operated in the second operating direction OD2 to perform a braking operation, the second operating member 28 moves with the first operating member 26. On the other hand, the first operating member 26 remains stationary or substantially stationary, while the second operating member 28 pivots around the first pivot axis A1. In other words, the second operating member 28 can pivot in the third operating direction OD3 around the first pivot axis A1 independently of the first operating member 26, so that the first operating member 26 remains stationary. However, sometimes the rider may contact the first operating member 26 while moving the second operating member 28 around the first pivot axis A1 in the third operating direction OD3 , so that the first operating member 26 moves slightly along with the first operating member 26 .

Please refer to Figures 10 and 11, the operating device 10 further includes a hydraulic unit 40. Herein, the hydraulic unit 40 is integrated into the main body 16 of the base member 14. In particular, the hydraulic unit 40 includes a master pump hole 41 formed in the main body 16 of the base member 14. The hydraulic unit 40 further includes a piston 42, and the piston 42 can be configured to move in the master pump hole 41. The piston 42 moves linearly inside the master pump hole 41 as the first operating member 26 is braked. Therefore, the first operating member 26 is operatively coupled to the piston 42 to move the piston 42 in the master pump hole 41. In particular, the hydraulic unit 40 further includes a connecting member 43 and a connecting rod 44. The connecting member 43 is operatively coupled between the piston 42 and the connecting member 43. One end of the connecting rod 44 is fixed to the fixed portion 30 of the first operating member 26, and the other end is pivotally coupled to the connecting member 43. In this way, the first operating member 26 is connected to the piston 42 through the connecting member 43 and the connecting rod 44.

During the movement of the piston 42 in response to the operation of the first operating member 26, hydraulic pressure is generated in the master pump hole 41 by the movement of the piston 42. Specifically, the piston 42 moves linearly in the master pump hole 41 to force the hydraulic fluid to leave the master pump hole 41 through the hydraulic hose H1 and reach the inlet connection port of the first vehicle component BC1. Therefore, the hydraulic unit 40 is configured to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to the first vehicle component BC1 as the first operating member 26 moves from the seated position to the operating position.

The hydraulic unit 40 further includes a piston deflection element 45 disposed between a plug 46 at one end closing the master pump hole 41 and the piston 42. Specifically, the piston deflection element 45 is disposed in the master pump hole 41 and deflects the piston 42 to a non-actuated (seated or non-operating) position. Herein, the piston deflection element 45 is a spiral compression spring that deflects the piston 42 to a non-actuated or seated position. The piston deflection element 45 also deflects the first operating member 26 to its seated position (i.e., no external force is applied to the first operating member 26). Therefore, when the piston 42 moves in the master pump hole 41 as the first operating member 26 is operated, the piston 42 compresses the piston deflection element 45. In a first specific embodiment, the hydraulic unit 40 further includes a hydraulic oil tank 47 connected to the master pump hole 41. The hydraulic oil tank 47 is filled with a hydraulic fluid such as mineral oil. The hydraulic oil tank 47 is disposed above the master pump hole 41 when the operating device 10 is in a fixed state. Since hydraulic units are well known, for the sake of brevity, the hydraulic unit 40 will not be discussed in further detail.

Alternatively, the hydraulic unit 40 may be omitted and a conventional control cable may be attached to the fixed portion 30 of the first operating member 26 for operating the first vehicle component BC1. Alternatively, the hydraulic unit 40 may be replaced with an electric switch for operating the first vehicle component BC1, wherein the first vehicle component BC1 is electrically operated.

10 and 11 , the operating device 10 further includes a component positioning and holding mechanism 48. Herein, the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 may also be referred to as a cable operating unit or a shifting unit. With the operation of the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28, the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 pulls and releases the inner cable of the control cable C1 to selectively hold the inner cable of the control cable C1 in one of a plurality of predetermined positions. Although the specific embodiment illustrated relates to an operating device for shifting a gearbox, it is apparent from the present invention that the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the operating device 10 may be used together with other components such as a shock absorber or an adjustable seat column.

The assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the operating device 10 is one example of an assembly positioning and holding mechanism that can be used with the operating device 10. It is clear from the present invention that other types of assembly positioning and holding mechanisms can be used with the operating device 10 as needed and/or desired. For example, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 is configured to be operated using the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28. However, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the operating device 10 can be configured so that the second operating member 28 is omitted and the first operating member 26 is used to perform both the cable pulling operation and the cable releasing operation in addition to the braking operation. In other words, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 can be replaced with an assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 that uses only a single pull rod to perform the cable pulling operation and the cable releasing operation in addition to the braking operation. Therefore, the component positioning and retaining mechanism 48 will not be described in detail.

Basically, as shown in Figures 10 to 16, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 is used to hold the inner cable of the control cable C1 when the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28 are in their seated positions. The inner cable of the control cable C1 is guided by the cable guide member 21 along the main body 16 to the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48. Therefore, as described above, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 is configured to be connected to the inner cable of the control cable C1 and to pull and release the inner cable of the control cable C1 relative to the base member 14.

In a first specific embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 to 16 , the operating device 10 further includes a movable member 49. The movable member 49 is a part of the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48. The movable member 49 is movably fixed relative to the base member 14. The movable member 49 is configured to pull and release the inner cable of the control cable C1 relative to the base member 14. The first operating member 26 is operatively coupled to the movable member 49. In particular, the first operating member 26 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot around the first pivot axis A1 to move the movable member 49. In addition, the second operating member 28 is operatively coupled to the positioning ratchet 50. In particular, the second operating member 28 is also pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 to move the movable member 49. Furthermore, while the movable member 49 remains stationary, the first operating member 26 pivotally couples to the base member 14 about the second pivot axis A2. In other words, the operation of the first operating member 26 about the second pivot axis A2 does not operate the assembly positioning holding mechanism 48.

The movable member 49 includes a positioning ratchet 50. The positioning ratchet 50 is a part of the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48. The positioning ratchet 50 is movably fixed relative to the base member 14. In particular, please refer to Figure 16, the positioning ratchet 50 is pivotally fixed relative to the base member 14 around the positioning ratchet axis A3. The positioning ratchet 50 is configured to be movable along a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1, as shown in Figure 16. Herein, as shown in Figure 16, the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are rotation directions centered on the positioning ratchet axis A3. However, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 can be reconfigured so that the positioning ratchet 50 can move in a linear direction. In the illustrated specific embodiment, the first direction D1 corresponds to a cable pulling direction, and the second direction D2 corresponds to a cable releasing direction.

The first operating member 26 is operatively coupled to the positioning ratchet 50. In particular, the first operating member 26 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 to move the positioning ratchet 50. In addition, the second operating member 28 is operatively coupled to the positioning ratchet 50. In particular, the second operating member 28 also pivotally couples the base member 14 to the positioning ratchet 50 to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 to move the positioning ratchet 50. Therefore, the rider changes the current position of the positioning ratchet 50 by selectively operating the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28 about the first pivot axis A1. On the other hand, when the positioning ratchet 50 remains stationary, the first operating member 26 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 around the second pivot axis A2. In other words, the operation of the first operating member 26 around the second pivot axis A2 does not operate the assembly positioning holding mechanism 48.

Herein, in a first specific embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes a first pawl 51 and a second pawl 52. The first pawl 51 is a pulling pawl. The second pawl 52 is a releasing pawl. The operating device 10 further includes a third pawl 53. The third pawl 53 is a position holding pawl. The operating device 10 further includes a fourth pawl 54. The fourth pawl 54 is a stop pawl. The first pawl 51, the second pawl 52, the third pawl 53 and the fourth pawl 54 are part of the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 for controlling the movement of the positioning ratchet 50. In particular, the first pawl 51 is configured to move the positioning ratchet 50 along the first direction D1 as the first operating member 26 moves from the first seated position to the first operating position around the first pivot axis A1. The first pawl 51 is configured to rotate the positioning ratchet 50 so that the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 rotate in the first direction D1. The second pawl 52 is configured to move the positioning ratchet 50 in the second direction D2 as the second operating member 28 moves from the second seated position to the second operating position around the first pivot axis A1. The second pawl 52 is configured to release the positioning ratchet 50 to rotate around the positioning ratchet axis A3 so that the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 rotate in the second direction D2. The third pawl 53 is configured to maintain the current position of the positioning ratchet 50. In other words, the third pawl 53 is configured to engage the positioning ratchet 50 to keep the positioning ratchet 50 from moving when the first operating member 26 and the second operating member 28 are in their static positions. Thus, the positioning ratchet 50 operates in conjunction with the third pawl 53 to hold the inner wire of the control cable C1 in one of a plurality of predetermined positions. The fourth pawl 54 is configured to engage the positioning ratchet 50 to limit movement of the positioning ratchet 50 during a cable release operation using the second operating member 28.

Herein, in the first specific embodiment, the movable member 49 further includes a cable tightening member 55. The cable tightening member 55 is coupled to the positioning ratchet 50 so as to move with the positioning ratchet 50. The cable tightening member 55 is a part of the assembly positioning and retaining mechanism 48. In the illustrated specific embodiment, the cable tightening member 55 acts as a spool. The cable tightening member 55 is preferably a rigid member made of a suitable material, such as a hard plastic material. The cable tightening member 55 is coupled to the positioning ratchet 50 so as to move with the positioning ratchet 50. Therefore, the cable tightening member 55 is configured to rotate around the positioning ratchet axis A3 together with the positioning ratchet 50. The cable tightening member 55 and the positioning ratchet 50 are axially positioned along the positioning ratchet axis A3. The positioning ratchet 50 is non-rotatably configured on the cable tightening member 55. In particular, the cable tightening member 55 is coupled to the positioning ratchet 50 to prevent relative rotation between the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55.

The first operating member 26 is operatively coupled to the cable take-up member 55. In particular, the first operating member 26 is pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 to move the cable take-up member 55. In addition, the second operating member 28 is operatively coupled to the positioning ratchet 50. In particular, the second operating member 28 is also pivotally coupled to the base member 14 to pivot about the first pivot axis A1 to move the cable take-up member 55.

The assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 further includes a support shaft 56 and a support structure 57. The support structure 57 is non-movably coupled to the support shaft 56. In the first specific embodiment, the support shaft 56 is a bolt attached to the main body 16. In this way, the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 is supported on the main body 16. The support shaft 56 also has various gaskets and bushings for appropriately spacing and rotatably supporting the various parts of the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48. Gaskets and bushings are traditional components commonly found in assembly positioning and holding mechanisms. The cable tightening member 55 is rotatably supported on the base member 14 through the support shaft 56 that defines the positioning ratchet axis A3. The support structure 57 is formed by a pair of stationary support members that cooperate with and/or support other parts of the assembly positioning and retaining mechanism 48.

Preferably, the operating device 10 further includes a deflection member 58. The positioning ratchet 50 is deflected along the second direction D2 by the deflection member 58 around the positioning ratchet axis A3. Therefore, the second direction D2 corresponds to a cable. Since the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 are non-rotatably coupled together, the cable tightening member 55 is also deflected along the second direction D2 by the deflection member 58 around the positioning ratchet axis A3. Herein, in a first specific embodiment, the deflection member 58 is a flat helical tension spring. The deflection member 58 has a coil portion wound around the support shaft 56. The deflection member 58 has a first free end portion disposed in the hole of the cable tightening member 55, and a second free end portion hooked on the support structure 57. In this way, the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 are deflected by the deflection member 58 around the positioning ratchet axis A3 in a second direction D2 corresponding to the cable release direction.

In the first specific embodiment, the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the operating device 10 further includes a first input member 59 and a second input member 60. Basically, the first input member 59 and the second input member 60 are pivotally supported on the support shaft 56. The first pawl 51 is pivotally fixed to the first input member 59. The second pawl 52 is pivotally fixed to the second input member 60. When the first input member 59 moves from the seated position of the first input member 59 toward the operating position of the first input member 59, the second input member 60 moves together with the first input member 59. On the other hand, usually when the second input member 60 moves from the seated position of the second input member 60 toward the operating position of the second input member 60, the first input member 59 remains stationary. However, when the user moves the second operating member 28 from its seated position to its operating position, the user may accidentally push the first operating member 26. In this case, the first input member 59 may initially move along with the second input member 60.

Basically, the first input member 59 pivots around the positioning ratchet axis A3 in the first direction D1 following the operation of the first operating member 26 around the first pivot axis A1. When the first input member 59 pivots around the positioning ratchet axis A3 in the first direction D1, the first pawl 51 engages the positioning ratchet 50 following the operation of the first operating member 26 around the first pivot axis A1. In this way, the first pawl 51 activates the pulling operation of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 in the first direction D1. Therefore, the operation of the first operating member 26 on the first input member 59 causes the cable tightening member 55 to rotate in the first direction D1 corresponding to the cable pulling direction to pull the inner cable of the control cable C1.

On the other hand, the second input member 60 pivots around the positioning ratchet axis A3 in the first direction D1 as the second operating member 28 is operated around the first pivot axis A1. When the second input member 60 pivots around the positioning ratchet axis A3 in the first direction D1, the second pawl 52 releases the positioning ratchet 50 as the second operating member 28 is operated around the first pivot axis A1. In this way, the second pawl 52 activates the release operation of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 in the second direction D2. Therefore, the operation of the second operating member 28 on the second input member 60 causes the cable tightening member 55 to rotate in the second direction D2 corresponding to the cable pulling direction to release the inner wire of the control cable C1.

In particular, the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the operating device 10 further includes a release member 61. The release member 61 is pivotally supported on the support shaft 56. The release member 61 pivots along the first direction D1 around the positioning ratchet axis A3 through the second pawl 52 as the second operating member 28 operates around the first pivot axis A1. The release member 61 is configured to move from the non-release position toward the release position along the first direction D1 to selectively move the third pawl 53 between the holding position and the release position. In the holding position, the third pawl 53 engages with the positioning ratchet 50 to maintain the current position of the positioning ratchet 50. In the positioning ratchet 50, the third pawl 53 pivots out of engagement with the positioning ratchet 50 to allow the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 to rotate in the second direction D2 under the deflection force of the deflection member 58. However, the release member 61 additionally pivots the fourth pawl into engagement with the positioning ratchet 50 to restrict the rotation of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 in the second direction D2. Therefore, the operation of the second input member 60 by the second operating member 28 causes the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 to rotate in the second direction D2 corresponding to the cable pulling direction to release the inner wire of the control cable C1.

Herein, the operating device 10 further includes a limiting member 62. The limiting member 62 is configured to selectively limit the rotational movement of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 around the positioning ratchet axis A3. In this way, the effective amount of the inner wire rope of the control cable C1 pulled and released by the assembly positioning holding mechanism 48 is changed. Of course, the operating device 10 may not be provided with the limiting member 62. In this case, the operating device 10 is used without the limiting member 62, so that the inner wire rope of the control cable C1 can be pulled and released by the assembly positioning holding mechanism 48 to a greater extent than the rotational movement of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 62 is limited by the limiting member 62.

In particular, please refer to Figures 25 to 27 and Figure 30, the movable member 49 includes a first adjacent surface and a second adjacent surface. As described above, the movable member 49 includes a positioning ratchet 50 and a cable tightening mechanism 55. Therefore, the first adjacent surface can be formed on at least one of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55. Similarly, the second adjacent surface can be formed on at least one of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55. For example, the positioning ratchet 50 includes a first adjacent surface 50a. Herein, the first adjacent surface 50a is formed by a tooth of the positioning ratchet 50. In addition, herein, the cable tightening member 55 includes a first adjacent surface 55a. In the first specific embodiment, the cable tightening member 55 includes a second adjacent surface 55b. In addition, in the first specific embodiment, the positioning ratchet 50 does not include a second adjacent surface.

At least one of the first adjacent surface 50a and the first adjacent surface 55a is configured to selectively contact the first static adjacent surface 10a1, 10a2 of the operating device 10 to establish a first stop position defining the first end of the first moving range R1 and the first end of the second moving range R2, as shown in Figures 25 and 26. In the first specific embodiment, the operating device 10 includes a first static adjacent surface 10a1 formed by the third pawl 53. The first static adjacent surface 10a1 is configured to contact the first adjacent surface 50a of the movable member 49. The deflection member 58 deflects the positioning ratchet 50 toward the first stop position. In the first specific embodiment, the operating device 10 includes a first static adjacent surface 10a2 formed by the support structure 57. The first stationary adjacent surface 10a2 is configured to contact the first adjacent surface 55a of the movable member 49. The deflection member 58 deflects the cable take-up member 55 toward the first stop position.

The first adjacent surface 50a is configured to selectively contact the first static adjacent surface 10a1 of the operating device 10 to establish a first stop position defining a first end of the first moving range R1 and a first end of the second moving range R2. In addition, the first adjacent surface 55a is configured to selectively contact the first static adjacent surface 10a2 of the operating device 10 to establish a first stop position defining a first end of the first moving range R1 and a first end of the second moving range R2. Of course, one of the first adjacent surfaces 50a, 55a and the corresponding one of the first static adjacent surfaces 10a1, 10a2 may be omitted as needed and/or desired. Thus, for example, at least one of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 forms a first abutting surface, and at least one of the third pawl 53 (positioning pawl) and the support structure 57 forms a first static abutting surface to establish a first stop. The second abutting surface 55b is configured to selectively contact the limiting portion 70 when the operating device is in the second state to establish a second stop position defining the second end of the second movement range R2, while the limiting member 62 is fixed to the base member 14, as shown in Figures 27 and 28.

Therefore, in a state where the limiting member 62 is fixed to the base member 14, the limiting portion 70 defines a second stop position of the positioning ratchet 50. The second adjacent surface 55b is configured to selectively contact the second static adjacent surface 10b of the operating device 10 to establish a third stop position defining the second end of the first movement range R1, as shown in FIG30. In this way, when the movement of the cable tightening member 55 is limited by the limiting member 62, the effective amount of the inner cable of the control cable being pulled or released by the assembly positioning holding mechanism 48 is reduced. Herein, the cable tightening member 55 has a cable attachment structure 55c for attaching the inner cable connector of the control cable C1 thereto. Thus, when the cable take-up member 55 rotates in the first direction D1, the inner wire of the control cable C1 is pulled into the base member 14, and when the cable take-up member 55 rotates in the second direction D2, it is released from the base member 14.

In the first specific embodiment, the first stationary adjacent surface 10a2 is formed by the support structure 57, and the second stationary adjacent surface 10b is integrally formed as a part of the main body 16. In particular, the first stationary adjacent surface 10a2 is formed by the edge of the stationary plate of the support structure 57, and the second stationary adjacent surface 10b is a molded adjacent surface of the main body 16. Therefore, the first stationary adjacent surface 10a2 is a component separated from the main body 16, and the second stationary adjacent surface 10b is a component inseparable from the main body 16. Alternatively, the first stationary adjacent surface 10a2 and the second stationary adjacent surface 10b may be separate components attached to the base member 12. For example, the first static adjacent surface 10a2 can be formed on a first stop member that is attached to the main body 16 using a suitable fastener (e.g., a threaded fastener, a snap-fit fastener, etc.). Similarly, the second static adjacent surface 10b can be formed on a second stop member that is attached to the main body 16 using a suitable fastener (e.g., a threaded fastener, a snap-fit fastener, etc.). Also, for example, the first static adjacent surface 10a2 and/or the second static adjacent surface 10b can be formed on a stop member that is removably inserted through an opening in the main body 16 in a manner similar to the limiting member 62. In this way, the first stop position of the positioning ratchet 50 and/or the third stop position of the positioning ratchet 50 can be defined by at least one component attached to the base member 14. Moreover, for example, the second stationary adjacent surface 10 b may be formed by a stationary separate component of the component positioning holding mechanism 48 .

Please refer to Figures 12 to 15, the limiting member 62 is configured to be fixedly connected to the base member 14. The limiting member 62 is a member separated from the base member 14. In the first specific embodiment, the base member 14 includes an attachment portion 64. The attachment portion 64 is configured so that the limiting member 62 is configured to be fixedly connected to the attachment portion 64. The limiting member 62 is configured to limit the movement range of the movable member 49 from the first movement range R1 to the second movement range R2. The second movement range R2 is different from the first movement range R1. In particular, as described below, the limiting member 62 is configured to limit the end movement range of the movable member 49 from the first movement range R1 to the second movement range R2. The first movement range R1 is larger than the second movement range R2. In this way, the movement range of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 can be limited from the first movement range R1 to the second movement range R2.

In the first specific embodiment, the attachment portion 64 is disposed on the inner side of the main body 16 facing the central plane CP. In other words, the attachment portion 64 is disposed on the inner side of the main body 16 closer to the central plane CP than the outer side of the main body 16. Therefore, the limiting member 62 is disposed on the inner side of the main body 16 facing the central plane CP.

In a first specific embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 21 to 24 , the limiting member 62 is a single-piece member made of a suitable material, such as a hard plastic material. Alternatively, the limiting member 62 may be formed of a plurality of pieces integrated together. The limiting member 62 includes a limiting portion 70. When the operating device 10 is in the first state ( FIG. 30 ), the movable member 49 can move freely within the first movement range R1 without contacting the limiting portion 70. On the other hand, when the operating device 10 is in the second state, the movement range of the movable member 49 is limited to move within the second movement range R2 by contacting the limiting portion 70 ( FIGS. 25 , 27 and 28 ). In other words, the limiting portion 70 is configured to limit the movement range of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 to move within the first movement range R1 when the operating device 10 is in the second state. When the operating device 10 is in the first state, the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 are free to move within the second movement range R2. Thus, the first state is different from the second state.

Basically, in the first state, the movable member 49 (e.g., at least one of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) does not contact the limiting member 62. On the other hand, in the second state, the movable member 49 (e.g., at least one of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) contacts the limiting member 62 to limit the moving range of the movable member 49. Therefore, the moving range of the movable member 49 is larger in the first state than in the second state. The limiting member 62 is configured to be manually switched between the first state in which the movable member 49 does not contact the limiting member 62 and the second state in which at least one of the positioning ratchet 50 and the movable member 49 contacts the limiting member 62.

Basically, when the operating device 10 is in the first state, the cable tightening member 55 cannot contact the limiting portion 70. In other words, the first state corresponds to a state in which the limiting portion 70 is removed from the attachment portion 64. Thus, in the first state, the movement of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 is not restricted by the limiting member 62. On the other hand, when the operating device 10 is in the second state, the cable tightening member 55 of the movable member 49 can contact the limiting portion 70. In other words, the second state corresponds to the limiting member 62 being attached to the attachment portion 64, so that the cable tightening member 55 can contact the limiting portion 70 to restrict the movement of the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member.

As described above, the first adjacent surface 50a contacts the first stationary adjacent surface 10a1 of the operating device 10, and/or the first adjacent surface 55a contacts the first stationary adjacent surface 10a2 of the operating device 10 to establish a first stop position defining a first end of the first moving range R1 and a first end of the second moving range R2. The second adjacent surface 55b is configured to selectively contact the limiting portion 70 when the operating device 10 is in the second state to establish a second stop position defining a second end of the second moving range R2. In other words, the second adjacent surface 55b contacts the limiting portion 70 to establish a second stop position defining a second end of the second moving range R2, wherein the limiting portion 70 is fixed to the attachment portion 64. The second adjacent surface 55b is configured to selectively contact the second static adjacent surface 10b of the operating device 10 to establish a third stop position defining the second end of the first moving range R1. In other words, the second adjacent surface 55b contacts the second static adjacent surface 10b to establish the third stop position where the limiting portion 70 has been removed from the attachment portion 64.

In the first specific embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 22 to 25 , the limiting member 62 further includes a cable guide portion 72. The cable guide portion 72 is configured to guide the cable C1 relative to the base member 14 when the operating device 10 is in the second state. Herein, the cable guide portion 72 of the limiting member 62 is coupled to the cable guide member 21. In addition, in the first specific embodiment, the limiting member 62 further includes a retaining portion 74, which, when the operating device 10 is in the second state, fastens the limiting portion 70 to the base member 14. As shown in FIG. 19 , the retaining portion 74 is disposed in the step hole 16e of the main body 16, and is used to fasten the limiting portion 70 to the base member 14 in the second state. In the first state, the retaining portion 74 is removed from the stepped hole 16e of the main body 16, so that the limiting member 62 can be completely separated from the base member 14 in the first state. Furthermore, in the first specific embodiment, the limiting member 62 further includes a positioning portion 76. The positioning portion 76 is configured to position the limiting portion 70 relative to the base member 14 when the operating device 10 is in the second state. Herein, the limiting member 62 further includes a base portion 78. The retaining portion 74 is attached to the base portion 78 by a movable hinge (i.e., an area where the thickness is reduced to allow bending). The limiting portion 70, the cable guide portion 72 and the cable guide portion 72 are all arranged on a side of the base portion 78 that is matched with the attachment portion 64 in the second state. The cable guide portion 72, the retaining portion 74 and the positioning portion 76 are disposed on the base portion 78. Herein, the base portion 78 is maintained on the attachment portion 64 of the base member 14 by friction. Alternatively, the limiting member 62 can be held to the attachment portion 64 by the grip cover 22 alone.

The limiting member 62 is detachably fixed to the attachment portion 64. In particular, the limiting member 62 is configured to be separated from the attachment portion 64 when the operating device 10 is in the first state. Furthermore, the limiting member 62 is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion 64 when the operating device 10 is in the second state. Herein, in the first specific embodiment, the attachment portion 64 includes a recess 64a, which is sized to fit the base portion 78 of the limiting member 62 in the second state. In addition, as described above, the retaining portion 74 is removed from the stepped hole 16e of the main body 16, so that the limiting member 62 can be completely separated from the base member 14 in the first state.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 20 , the attachment portion 64 includes a first opening 64b. The first opening 64b is configured to engage the limiting portion 70. Herein, in the first specific embodiment, the attachment portion 64 further includes a second opening 64c. The second opening 64c is configured to engage the cable guide portion 72 to allow the control cable C1 to pass through. Herein, in the first specific embodiment, the attachment portion 64 further includes a third opening 64d. The second opening 64c is configured to engage the positioning portion 76 to help position the limiting member 62 to the attachment portion 64.

Please refer to Figures 29 to 31. In the first specific embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes a cover 90. The cover 90 is configured to replace the limiting member 62 in the first state. In other words, when the limiting portion 70 has been disassembled and removed from the attachment portion 64 in the first state, the cover 90 is attached to the attachment portion 64. Preferably, in the first state, the limiting member 62 is removed from the base member 14, so that the limiting portion 70 is separated from the attachment portion 64 and the retaining portion 74 is separated from the main body 16. After the limiting member 62 is disassembled, the cover 90 is attached to the attachment portion 64 instead of the limiting member 62. In this way, the cover 90 is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion 64. The cover 90 at least partially covers the attachment portion 64 when the operating device 10 is in the first state.

Herein, the cover 90 is identical to the limiting member 62 except that the cover 90 does not include a limiting portion. Thus, the cover includes a cable guide portion 92 configured to guide the cable relative to the base member 14. The cover 90 further includes a cable guide portion 92, a retaining portion 94, a positioning portion 96, and a base portion 98. Of course, the cover 90 may have other differences from the limiting member 62 as needed and/or desired.

Please refer to Figures 32 to 49, which illustrate an operating device 110 according to a second embodiment. In view of the similarity between the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the parts of the second embodiment that are consistent with the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as the parts in the first embodiment. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the description of the parts of the second embodiment that are consistent with the first embodiment may be omitted.

The operating device 110 includes a base member 114 configured to be coupled to the handlebar H in the same manner as the first embodiment. The base member 114 includes a body 116, which is the same as the body 16 except for the differences explained below. The base member 114 further includes the fixing member 18, the bottom plate 20, the cable guide member 21 and the handle cover 22 of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes the first operating member 26, the second operating member 28, the hydraulic unit 40 and the assembly positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the operating device 110 is configured to perform braking operations and shifting operations in the same manner as the first embodiment.

In the second embodiment, the body 116 of the base member 114 has been modified to use a restraining member 162 instead of the restraining member 62. Thus, the base member 114 is identical to the base member 14 except that the body 116 has been modified to accommodate the use of the restraining member 162. Therefore, the following description of the operating device 110 will focus on the modification of the body 116 to accommodate the use of the restraining member 162.

Herein, in a second specific embodiment, the main body 116 of the base member 114 includes an attachment portion 164 that adjusts the limiting member 162. More specifically, the limiting member 162 is slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion 164. In particular, the limiting member 162 is configured to be positioned at a first position relative to the base member 114 when the operating device 110 is in the first state. In addition, the limiting member 162 is configured to be positioned at a second position relative to the base member 114 when the operating device 110 is in the second state. The first position is different from the second position. The limiting member 162 is configured to selectively switch the movement range of the positioning ratchet 50 between the first movement range R1 and the second movement range R2. The second movement range R2 is different from the first movement range R1. The first moving range R1 and the second moving range R2 are the same as those in the first embodiment in that the operating device 110 includes the component positioning holding mechanism 48 of the first embodiment.

Herein, in the second specific embodiment, the limiting member 162 includes a limiting portion 170 that can be slidably fixed between a first position and a second position relative to the attachment portion 164. Therefore, unlike the first specific embodiment, the limiting member 162 remains attached to the base member 114 in both the first state and the second state. On the other hand, similar to the first specific embodiment, the limiting portion 70 limits the moving range of the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) to move within the second moving range R2 when the operating device 110 is in the second state. When the operating device 110 is in the first state, the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) is free to move within the first moving range R1.

In the second specific embodiment, the limiting portion 170 is configured to be able to slide linearly relative to the attachment portion 164. In other words, the limiting portion 170 is fixed to the attachment portion 164 to slide linearly relative to the attachment portion 164 between the first position and the second position. In the first position, the limiting portion 170 does not limit the movement of the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) along the first direction D1. On the other hand, in the second position, the limiting portion 170 limits the movement of the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) along the first direction D1.

Basically, in a state where the operating device 110 is in the first state, the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) cannot contact the restricting portion 170. In other words, the second state corresponds to a state where the restricting member 162 is in the first position (FIG. 34 and FIG. 42 to FIG. 44), so that the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) cannot contact the restricting portion 170 to restrict the movement of the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55). On the other hand, in a state where the operating device 110 is in the second state, the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) can contact the restricting portion 170. In other words, the second state corresponds to the state where the limiting member 170 is in the second position (Figures 39 and 41), so that the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) cannot contact the limiting portion 170 to limit the movement of the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55).

Preferably, for example, the attachment portion 164 includes one of a guide rail and a groove, and the limiting portion 170 includes the other of the guide rail and the groove. In a second specific embodiment, the attachment portion 164 includes a guide rail 164a, and the limiting portion 170 includes a groove 174. In a second specific embodiment, the attachment portion 164 further includes a first opening 164b. The guide rail 164a is defined by the edge of the first opening 164b. The guide rail 164a is disposed in the groove 174. In this way, the limiting portion 170 can slide between the first position (Figures 34 and 42 to 44) and the second position (Figures 33 and 39 to 41) in the first opening 164b on the guide rail 164a. Herein, the lower edge of the first opening 164b is defined by the guide rail 164c. When the limiting member 162 slides in the first opening 164b on the guide rail 164a and the guide rail 164c, the guide rail 164c contacts and supports the limiting member 162.

The limiting member 162 includes a base portion 175 that can be contacted by a user to move the limiting member 162 between the first position (Figures 34 and 42 to 44) and the second position (Figures 33 and 39 to 41). Preferably, as shown in Figures 33, 34 and 37, the base portion 175 of the limiting member 162 includes a first claw 177 and a second claw 179. The first claw 177 and the second claw 179 are configured to releasably hold the limiting member 162 in the first position and the second position. As shown in Figures 35 and 36, the guide rail 164c has a first recess 164e and a second recess 164f. Herein, the guide rail 164a also has an additional first recess 164e. In other words, the attachment portion 164 includes a pair of first recesses 164e. The second recess 164f is configured to engage the first claw 177 to hold the limiting member 162 in the first position (FIG. 34 and FIG. 42 to FIG. 44). Specifically, in the first position, only the first claw 177 of the limiting member 162 engages the second recess 164f of the guide rail 164c (FIG. 34 and FIG. 42 to FIG. 44). On the other hand, the first recess 164e is configured to engage the first claw 177 and the second claw 179 of the limiting member 162 to hold the limiting member 162 in the second position (FIG. 33 and FIG. 39 to FIG. 41). Therefore, the limiting member 162 is more firmly held in the second position than in the first position.

As shown in Figures 31 and 32, the operating device 110 further includes a cover 190 that at least partially covers the attachment portion 164. The attachment portion 164 includes a second opening 164d. The second opening 164d is configured to allow the cable to pass therethrough. In a second specific embodiment, the cover 190 is fixed to the attachment portion 164 in both the first state and the second state. The cover 190 includes a cable guide portion 192 configured to guide the cable relative to the base member 114. The cable cover 190 has been fixed to the attachment portion 164 to partially surround the limiting member 162. Alternatively, the cable cover 190 can be configured to overlap with the limiting member 162 in both the first position and the second position when fixed to the attachment portion 164. Herein, the attachment portion 164 includes a recess 164g that is sized to fit over the cable cover 190, as shown in FIG. 31 .

Herein, similar to the limiting member 62 of the first specific embodiment, the cover body 190 further includes a retaining portion 194 that ties the cover body 190 to the base member 114. In addition, the cover body 190 further includes at least one positioning portion 196. Herein, the cover body 190 includes a pair of positioning portions 196. The positioning portion 196 is configured to position the cover body 190 relative to the base member 114. Herein, the cover body 190 further includes a base portion 198. The retaining portion 194 is attached to the base portion 198 by a movable hinge (i.e., an area where the thickness is reduced to allow bending). The cable guide portion 192, the retaining portion 194 and the positioning portion 196 are all arranged on the side where the base portion 198 is matched with the attachment portion 164. The cable guide portion 192, the retaining portion 194 and the positioning portion 196 are disposed on the base portion 198. Herein, the base portion 198 can be maintained on the attachment portion 164 of the base member 114 by friction. In addition, herein, one or both of the positioning portions 196 are retained in the hole 164h of the attachment portion 164 by friction. Alternatively, the cover 190 can be retained to the attachment portion 164 alone by the grip cover 22.

As shown in FIGS. 43 and 44 , the limiting member 162 is fixed to the attachment portion 164 in the first position (i.e., the operating device 110 is in the first state). Similar to the first specific embodiment, when the operating device 110 is in the first state, the movable member 49 can move freely within the first movement range R1 without contacting the limiting portion 170. Therefore, when the limiting portion 170 is in the first position, the limiting portion 170 does not limit the movement range of the positioning ratchet 50. As shown in FIGS. 39 to 41 , the limiting member 162 is fixed to the attachment portion 164 in the second position (i.e., the operating device 110 is in the second state). Similar to the first specific embodiment, when the limiting portion 170 is in the second state, the movable member 49 is limited to move within the second moving range R2, and when the operating device 110 is in the first state, the movable member 49 is freely movable within the first moving range R1.

Please refer to Figures 50 to 68, which illustrate an operating device 210 according to the third embodiment. In view of the similarity between the third embodiment and the previous embodiments, the parts of the third embodiment that are consistent with the previous embodiments will be given the same reference numerals as those in the previous embodiments. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the description of the parts of the third embodiment that are consistent with the previous embodiments may be omitted.

The operating device 210 includes a base member 214 configured to be coupled to the handlebar H in the same manner as the previous embodiment (see, for example, FIG. 1 ). The base member 214 includes a body 216 that is identical to the body 16 except for the differences explained below. The base member 214 further includes the fixing member 18 and the bottom plate 20 of the first embodiment. Similar to the cable guide member 21 of the first embodiment, a cable guide member 221 is provided on the base member 214 for guiding the inner cable of the control cable C1. The cable guide member 221 has a slightly different shape from the cable guide member 21 of the first embodiment. However, the function of the cable guide member 221 is the same as that of the cable guide member 21 in the first embodiment. Similar to the first embodiment, the hydraulic hose H1 is also connected to the base member 214. In addition, in the third embodiment, the operating device further includes a handle cover 222 that at least partially covers the base member 214. The handle cover 222 is the same as the handle cover 22 of the first embodiment. In the third embodiment, the operating device 210 further includes the first operating member 26, the second operating member 28, the hydraulic unit 40 and the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the operating device 210 is configured to perform a braking operation and a shifting operation in the same manner as the first embodiment.

In the third embodiment, the body 216 of the base member 214 has been modified to use a limiting member 262 instead of the limiting member 62 or the limiting member 162 of the previous embodiment. Therefore, the base member 214 is the same as the base member 14 except that the body 216 is modified to accommodate the use of the limiting member 262. Therefore, the following description of the operating device 210 will focus on the modification of the body 216 to accommodate the use of the limiting member 262.

In general, in the third specific embodiment, the body 216 of the base member 214 includes an attachment portion 264 that accommodates the limiting member 262. More specifically, the limiting member 262 is configured to be detachably fixed to the attachment portion 264. Basically, when the operating device 210 is in the first state, the limiting member 262 is configured to be detached from the attachment portion 264, and when the operating device 210 is in the second state, the limiting member 262 is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion 264. Herein, the first state of the operating device 210 corresponds to a state in which the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 can be selectively moved between eleven predetermined positions. On the other hand, the second state of the operating device 210 corresponds to a state in which the component positioning and holding mechanism 48 can be selectively moved between ten predetermined positions. In other words, in the operating device 210 of the third specific embodiment, the predetermined positions in the second state are less than the predetermined positions in the first state.

In a third specific embodiment, the limiting member 262 is slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion 264. In particular, the limiting member 262 is configured to be positioned at a first position relative to the base member 214 when the operating device 210 is in the first state. In addition, the limiting member 262 is configured to be positioned at a second position relative to the base member 214 when the operating device 210 is in the second state. The first position is different from the second position. Herein, the limiting member 262 is configured to be removed from the base member 214 at the first position. Preferably, when the operating device 210 is in the first state, the limiting member 262 is not positioned from the base member 214 at the first position between the base member 214 and the grip cover 222 (shown in dotted lines in FIG. 50 ).

The first position corresponds to a position where the limiting member 262 is separated from the base member 214. In other words, the first position of the limiting member 262 corresponds to any position where the limiting member 262 is separated from the base member 214. Thus, in the third specific embodiment, the first position of the limiting member 262 is a position where the limiting member 262 has been separated from the base member 214 and removed. However, the first position of the limiting member 262 is also considered to be a position where the limiting member 262 is not removed from the base member 214 (e.g., disposed in a recess of the main body 216), and the movement of the movable member 49 (e.g., the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55 in the third specific embodiment) is not restricted to reduce the number of predetermined positions.

As shown in FIG. 57 , the limiting member 262 is configured to selectively switch the movement range of the positioning ratchet 50 between the first movement range R1 and the second movement range R2. The second movement range R2 is different from the first movement range R1. The first movement range R1 and the second movement range R2 are the same as those in the first embodiment in that the operating device 210 includes the component positioning holding mechanism 48 of the first embodiment, as described above.

Herein, in the third specific embodiment, the limiting member 262 includes a limiting portion 270. The limiting portion 270 is slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion 264 to move between the first position and the second position. Therefore, similar to the first specific embodiment, the limiting member 262 is detached from the base member 214 in the first state, and is attached to the base member 214 in the second state. In addition, similar to the first specific embodiment, the limiting portion 270 limits the moving range of the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) to move within the second moving range R2 when the operating device 210 is in the second state. When the operating device 210 is in the first state, the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) moves freely within the first moving range R1.

In the third specific embodiment, the limiting member 270 is configured to be slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion 264. In particular, herein, the limiting member 262 is configured to be able to slide linearly relative to the attachment portion 264. More specifically, the limiting member 262 is fixed to the attachment portion 264 to slide along a linear direction relative to the attachment portion 264 between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the limiting portion 270 does not limit the movement of the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) along the first direction D1. On the other hand, in the second position, the limiting portion 270 limits the movement of the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) along the first direction D1.

Basically, when the operating device 210 is in the first state, the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) cannot contact the limiting portion 270. In other words, the second state corresponds to the state where the limiting member 262 is in the first position (FIG. 52, FIG. 55, FIG. 56 and FIG. 59), so that the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) cannot contact the limiting portion 270 to limit the movement of the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55). On the other hand, when the operating device 110 is in the second state, the movable member 49 (the positioning ratchet 50 and the cable tightening member 55) can contact the limiting portion 270. In other words, the second state corresponds to the state in which the limiting member 270 is in the second position (Figures 50, 51, 53, 54, 57 and 58), so that the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55) cannot contact the limiting portion 270 to limit the movement of the movable member 49 (positioning ratchet 50 and cable tightening member 55).

Preferably, for example, the attachment portion 264 includes one of a guide rail and a groove, and the limiting portion 270 includes the other of the guide rail and the groove. In a third specific embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 52 , 56 and 58 , the attachment portion 264 includes a guide rail 264 a, and the limiting portion 270 includes a groove 274. In a third specific embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 52 , 56 and 58 , the attachment portion 264 includes a first opening 264 b configured to receive the limiting portion 270. The guide rail 264 a defines an edge of the first opening 264 b. The guide rail 264 a is disposed in the groove 274. In this way, the limiting portion 270 can slide in the first opening 264b on the guide rail 264a between the first position (Figures 52, 55, 56 and 59) and the second position (Figures 50, 51, 53, 54, 57 and 58). When the limiting member 262 slides in the first opening 264b on the guide rail 264a, the guide rail 264a contacts and supports the limiting member 262.

As shown in FIG. 58 , the limiting member 262 is removed from the attachment portion 264 at the first position (i.e., the operating device 210 is in the first state). Similar to the first specific embodiment, when the operating device 210 is in the first state, the movable member 49 can move freely within the first movement range R1 (refer to FIG. 57 ) without contacting the limiting portion 270. Therefore, when the limiting portion 270 is in the first position, the limiting portion 270 does not limit the movement range of the positioning ratchet 50. As shown in FIG. 57 and FIG. 58 , the limiting member 262 is fixed to the attachment portion 264 at the second position (i.e., the operating device 210 is in the second state). Similar to the first specific embodiment, when the operating device 210 is in the second state, the movable member 49 is limited by the limiting portion 270 to move within the second movement range R2 (refer to FIG. 57 ).

As shown in Figures 60 to 65, the limiting member 262 is a one-piece member made of a single material. For example, the limiting member 262 is made of a molded resin material. As described above, the limiting member 262 includes a limiting portion 270, which has a groove 274 for receiving the guide rail 264a (refer to Figures 57 and 58). The limiting member 262 further includes a base portion 275. In addition, the limiting member 262 further includes a positioning portion 276. The limiting portion 270, the base portion 275 and the positioning portion 276 are integrally formed, so that the limiting member 262 is a one-piece member as described above. Herein, the limiting member 262 is a one-piece plastic member.

The user can contact the base portion 275 to move the limiting member 262 between the first position (FIG. 52, FIG. 55, FIG. 56 and FIG. 59) and the second position (FIG. 50, FIG. 51, FIG. 53, FIG. 54, FIG. 57 and FIG. 58). In other words, the base portion 275 functions as a user-operated portion of the limiting member 262, so that the user can slide the limiting member 262 between the first position where the limiting portion 270 does not limit the moving range of the movable member 49 and the second position where the limiting portion 270 limits the moving range of the movable member 49. The limiting portion 270 protrudes outward from the base member 275.

Basically, the base portion 275 and the positioning portion 276 of the clamp are detachably coupled to the attachment portion 264 of the base member 214. In other words, the limiting member 262 is clamped to the attachment portion 264 of the base member 214 to establish the second position of the limiting member 262 and the second state of the operating device 210.

As shown in Figures 53 and 54, the positioning portion 276 is a releasable contact adjacent to the attachment portion 264c. The positioning portion 276 is configured to contact the adjacent to the attachment portion 264c to limit the movement of the limiting member 262 toward the first position when the limiting member 262 is in the second position. In other words, the positioning portion 276 is configured to maintain the limiting member 262 in the second position. The positioning portion 276 is disposed on the same side of the base portion 275 as the limiting portion 270. Herein, the positioning portion 276 is cantilevered from the base portion 275 and has a positioning surface 276a. The base portion 275 is configured to bend elastically when the limiting member 262 moves between the first position and the second position. Specifically, when the limiting member 262 moves from the first position to the second position, the guide rail 264a of the attachment portion 264 engages the groove 274 of the limiting member 262 to slidably hold the limiting member 262 to the attachment portion 264. When the limiting member 262 moves from the first position to the second position, the positioning portion 276 contacts the adjacent portion 264c of the attachment portion 264, which causes the base portion 275 to bend away from the attachment portion 264. When the limiting member 262 reaches the second position, the base portion 275 bends back to its stress-free state, so that the positioning surface 276a of the positioning portion 276 contacts the adjacent surface 264c1 of the adjacent portion 264c of the attachment portion 264.

As shown in Figures 50 to 53 and Figures 66 to 68, the operating device 210 further includes a cover 290. The cover 290 is detachably coupled to the attachment portion 264. The cover 290 is a one-piece member made of a single material. For example, the cover 290 is made of a molded resin material. The attachment portion 264 includes a second opening 264d, and the second opening 264d is configured to allow a cable to pass therethrough. In a third specific embodiment, the cover 290 is detachably coupled to the attachment portion 264 so as to at least partially cover the second opening 264d of the attachment portion 264 when the cover 290 is attached to the attachment portion 264. The cover 290 includes a cable guide portion 292 configured to guide the cable relative to the base member 214.

Herein, as shown in Figures 50, 51 and 53, the cover body 290 includes a retaining portion 294 that fastens the cover to the base member 214. Specifically, the retaining portion 294 is inserted into the stepped hole 216e of the main body 216. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 57 to 59, the cover body 290 further includes at least one positioning portion 296. Herein, the positioning portion 296 is retained in at least one hole 264h of the attachment portion 264 by friction. Herein, as shown in Figures 66 to 68, the cover body 290 includes a pair of positioning portions 296. The positioning portion 296 is retained in a pair of holes 264h of the attachment portion 264 by friction. The positioning portion 296 is configured to position the cover body 290 relative to the base member 214. Herein, the cover body 290 further includes a base portion 298. The retaining portion 294 is attached to the base portion 298 via a movable hinge (i.e., an area of reduced thickness to allow bending). The cable guide portion 292, the retaining portion 294, and the positioning portion 296 are all disposed on the side of the base portion 298 that matches the attachment portion 264. The cable guide portion 292, the retaining portion 294, and the positioning portion 296 are disposed on the base portion 298.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its variations used in this specification are open-ended terms, specifying the presence of the described features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps, but the presence does not exclude other undescribed features, elements, components, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "including", "having" and their variations. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the terms "component", "section", "portion", "member" or "element" used in the singular form may have both singular and plural dual meanings.

As used in this specification, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above", "below", "up", "down", "top", "bottom", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "right angle" and "lateral" and any other similar directional terms refer to the orientation of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle) in an upright, riding position and equipped with an operating device. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe the operating device should be interpreted relative to the human-powered vehicle (e.g., bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the operating device. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate the "right" referring to the right side when looking forward from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle), and the "left" referring to the left side when looking forward from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle).

As used in the present invention, the term "at least one of" means "one or more" of a desired choice. For one example, if the number of the choices is two, the term "at least one of" used in the present invention means "only a single choice" or "two of the two choices." For another example, if the number of the choices is equal to or more than three, the term "at least one of" used in the present invention means "only a single choice" or "any combination of equal to or more than two choices." In addition, as used in the present invention, the term "and/or" means "one or both." For example, the term "at least one of A and B" covers (1) only A, (2) only B, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" covers (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In other words, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B" in the present invention.

Moreover, it should be understood that although the ordinals "first" and "second" used herein can be used to describe various components, these components should not be limited to these ordinals. These ordinals are only used to distinguish different components. Thus, for example, the first component discussed above can be referred to as the second component without departing from the present invention.

As used in this specification, the term "attached" or "attached" covers configurations where one component is directly affixed to another component by directly affixing the component to the other component; configurations where one component is indirectly affixed to the other component by attaching the component to (multiple) intermediate members that are then attached to the other component; and configurations where one component is integrated with another component, i.e., one component is substantially a part of the other component. This definition also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "keyed," "fixed," and variations thereof. Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially," "approximately," and "substantially" as used in this specification indicate an amount of offset that modifies the term such that the result is not significantly changed.

Although only selected specific embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes and modifications may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the patent application hereof. For example, unless otherwise specified, the size, shape, position or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and/or required, even if it is not their desired function. Unless otherwise specified, components that are directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures inserted therebetween without significantly changing their desired function. The function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa unless otherwise stated. The structure and function of one specific embodiment may be adjusted in another specific embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be presented simultaneously in a particular specific embodiment. The invention description proposed by the applicant should also consider each feature that is independent of the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, including the structural and/or functional concepts specifically implemented by such (multiple) features. Thus, the above description of the specific embodiments of the present invention is for illustration only and is not intended to limit the present invention, which is defined by the scope of the patent application and its appendix.

10,110,210: operating device 10a1,10a2: first stationary adjacent surface 10b: second stationary adjacent surface 12: additional operating device 14,114,214: base member 16,24,116,216: main body 16a: coupling end 16a1: handlebar receiving recess 16b: free end 16c: gripping portion 16d: round head portion 16e,216e: stepped hole 18: fastening member 18A: clamping band 18B: fastener 20: bottom plate 21,221: cable guide member 22,222: handlebar cover 26: first operating member 28: Second operating member 30: Fixed portion 32: Pull rod portion 34: First pivot axis 36: Second pivot axis 40: Hydraulic unit 41: Master cylinder hole 42: Piston 43: Connecting member 44: Connecting rod 45: Piston deflection element 46: Plug 47: Hydraulic oil tank 48: Component positioning and holding mechanism 49: Movable member 50: Positioning ratchet 50a, 55a: First adjacent surface 51: First pawl 52: Second pawl 53: Third pawl 54: Fourth pawl 55: Cable tightening member 55b: Second adjacent surface 55c: Cable attachment structure 56: Support shaft 57: Support structure 58: Deflection member 59: First input member 60: Second input member 61: Release member 62,162,262: Limiting member 64,164,264: Attachment 64a,164g: Recess 64b,164b,264b: First opening 64c,164d,264d: Second opening 64d: Third opening 70,170,270: Limiting portion 72,92,192,292: Cable guide portion 74,94,194,294: Holding portion 76,96,196,276,296: Positioning portion 78,98,175,198,275,298: base part 90,190,290: cover body 164a,164c,264a: guide rail 164e: first recess 164f: second recess 164h: hole 174,274: groove 177: first claw 179: second claw 264c: adjacent part 264c1: adjacent surface 264h: hole 276a: positioning surface A1: first pivot axis A2: second pivot axis A3: positioning ratchet axis BC1: first vehicle assembly BC2: second vehicle assembly C1: Control cable/first control cable C2: Control cable/second control cable CP: center plane D1: first direction D2: second direction F: frame H: handlebars H1, H2: hydraulic hoses OD1: first operating direction OD2: second operating direction OD3: third operating direction R1: first moving range R2: second moving range V: human-powered vehicle

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the handlebar area of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) having a curved handlebar with an operating device according to a first specific embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an external elevational view of the right side portion of the handlebar and the operating device shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the first operating member and the second operating member are in their seated positions.

FIG. 3 is an external elevation view of the operating device shown in FIG. 2 , wherein the first operating member has been moved to an operating position for operating a brake device.

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 , wherein the first operating member and the second operating member are in their seated positions.

FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 2 to FIG. 4 , wherein the first operating member and the second operating member are in their seated positions.

FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 2 to FIG. 5 , wherein the first operating member has moved to a cable pulling position, and the second operating member moves together with the first operating member.

7 is a front elevational view of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 65 , wherein the second operating member has moved to a cable release position and the first operating member remains in the seated position.

FIG. 8 is an internal elevation view of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 7 , wherein the handle cover has been removed.

FIG. 9 is an external elevation view of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 2 to FIG. 8 , wherein the handle cover has been removed.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 , in which the handle cover is omitted.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the component positioning holding mechanism (displacement unit) of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 , wherein the components are in their seated positions.

FIG. 13 is another perspective view of the assembly positioning and holding mechanism (displacement unit) illustrated in FIG. 12 .

FIG. 14 is a first side elevation view of the assembly positioning and holding mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 .

FIG. 15 is a second side elevation view of the assembly positioning and holding mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 14 .

Figure 16 shows selected components of the positioning and retaining mechanism of the assembly illustrated in Figures 12 to 15 (a positioning structure, a retaining member, a stopping member, a first operating member, a pull pawl, a second operating member, a release member, a release pawl, a stopping pawl, a stationary support structure and a main support shaft), wherein the selected components are in their seated positions.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 , wherein the limiting member is attached to the base member in a second state.

18 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 12 , but wherein the limiting member has been separated from the base member in the first state.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 taken along an attachment opening for attaching the limiting member.

20 is a partial internal elevational view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 , with the limiting member and the cover removed.

FIG. 21 is an enlarged external elevation view of the limiting member used in conjunction with the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 .

FIG. 22 is an enlarged inner side elevation view of the limiting member illustrated in FIG. 21 .

FIG. 23 is an enlarged inner perspective view of the limiting member illustrated in FIGS. 21 and 22.

FIG. 24 is an enlarged rear end view of the limiting member illustrated in FIGS. 21 to 23 .

Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figures 2 to 11, which shows that the limiting member is in a restricted state relative to the movable member (positioning ratchet and cable tightening member), which corresponds to the second state, and wherein the component positioning retaining mechanism (displacement unit) is in a fully released position.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 , wherein a portion of the main body of the base component has been cut away to reveal the assembly positioning and retaining mechanism.

Figure 27 is another cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figures 2 to 11, which shows that the limiting member is in a restricted state relative to the movable member (positioning ratchet and cable tightening member), and the component positioning holding mechanism (displacement unit) is in a fully released position.

Figure 28 is another cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figures 2 to 13, which shows that the limiting member is in a restricted state relative to the movable member (positioning ratchet and cable tightening member), and the component positioning retaining mechanism (displacement unit) is in the restricted end position.

29 is an external elevation view of a cover used together with the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 13 , in a state where the limiting member has been separated from the base member.

FIG. 30 is an inner side elevation view of the limiting member illustrated in FIG. 29 .

31 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 11 (without the handle cover), but wherein the limiting member is separated (eg, the first state), and wherein the assembly positioning and holding mechanism (displacement unit) is in the unrestricted end position.

Figure 32 is an internal elevation view of the operating device according to the second specific embodiment, in which the handle cover has been removed.

33 is an enlarged partial side elevation view of the attachment portion of the base member body having the restraining member and the cover, wherein the restraining member is in a restrained state corresponding to the second state.

34 is an enlarged partial side elevation view of the attachment portion of the base member body having the restraining member and the cover, wherein the restraining member is in an unrestrained state corresponding to the first state.

FIG. 35 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the attachment portion of the base member body.

FIG. 36 is an enlarged partial side elevation view of the attachment portion of the base member body.

FIG. 37 is an enlarged perspective view of the limiting member used in conjunction with the operating device illustrated in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 38 is an enlarged perspective view of the cover body used together with the operating device illustrated in FIG. 32 .

FIG. 39 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 32 , wherein the cover has been separated and the limiting member is in the second state (the limiting state).

FIG. 40 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 32 to 39 , wherein the limiting member is in the second state (the limiting state).

41 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 40 , taken along section line 41 - 41 of FIG. 40 , wherein the limiting member is in the second state (the limiting state).

42 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 39 , wherein the cover has been separated and the limiting member is in the first state (the unrestricted state).

FIG. 43 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 42 , wherein the limiting member is in the first state (the unconstrained state).

44 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 36 , taken along section line 44 - 44 of FIG. 43 , wherein the limiting member is in the first state (the unconstrained state).

45 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 39 , wherein the cover has been separated and the limiting member has been separated.

46 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 39 , with the cover body detached and the limiting member detached.

Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figures 32 to 39, which shows that the limiting member is in the second state relative to the movable member of the component positioning and retaining mechanism (displacement unit), and wherein the component positioning and retaining mechanism is in a fully released position.

Figure 48 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figures 32 to 39, which shows that the limiting member is in the second state relative to the movable member of the component positioning and retaining mechanism (displacement unit), and wherein the component positioning and retaining mechanism is in the limiting end position.

Figure 49 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figures 32 to 39, which shows that the limiting member is in the second state relative to the movable member of the component positioning and retaining mechanism (displacement unit), and wherein the component positioning and retaining mechanism is in the unrestricted end position.

Figure 50 is an internal elevation view of the operating device according to the third specific embodiment, in which the handle cover is shown in dotted lines.

51 is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 50 , wherein the limiting member is in the second position corresponding to the second state or the restricted state.

52 is similar to FIG. 51 and is an enlarged partial perspective view of a portion of the base member of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 50 , wherein the cover and the limiting member have been separated from the base member.

53 is an enlarged partial side elevation view of the attachment portion of the base member body with the restraining member in the second position corresponding to the second state or restrained state.

FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view of the attachment portion and the limiting member taken along section line 54 - 54 of FIG. 53 , wherein the limiting member is positioned in the second state (the limiting state).

55 is an enlarged partial side elevation view of the attachment portion of the base member body with the restraining member in the first position (detached position) corresponding to the first state or unrestrained state.

Figure 56 is an enlarged partial side elevation view of the attachment portion of the base member body, wherein the restraining member has been removed from the base member.

Figure 57 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figure 50, which shows that the limiting member is in a restricted state relative to the movable member (positioning ratchet and cable tightening member), which corresponds to the second state, and wherein the component positioning retaining mechanism (displacement unit) is in a fully released position.

Figure 58 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figure 50, which shows that the limiting member is in a restricted state relative to the movable member (positioning ratchet and cable tightening member), which corresponds to the second state, and wherein the component positioning retaining mechanism (displacement unit) is in a fully pulled position.

Figure 59 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the operating device (without the handle cover) illustrated in Figure 50, but wherein the limiting member has been separated (e.g., the first state), and wherein the component positioning and retaining mechanism (displacement unit) is in an unrestricted position, and wherein the component positioning and retaining mechanism (displacement unit) is in a fully pulled position.

FIG. 60 is a first enlarged perspective view of the limiting member used in conjunction with the operating device illustrated in FIG. 50 .

FIG. 61 is a second enlarged perspective view of the limiting member illustrated in FIG. 60 .

FIG. 62 is a top view of the limiting member illustrated in FIGS. 60 and 61 .

FIG. 63 is a bottom view of the limiting member illustrated in FIGS. 60 to 62 .

FIG. 64 is a rear view of the limiting member illustrated in FIGS. 60 to 63 .

FIG. 65 is a front view of the limiting member illustrated in FIGS. 60 to 64 .

Figure 66 is a first enlarged perspective view of the cover body used in conjunction with the operating device illustrated in Figure 50.

Figure 67 is a second enlarged perspective view of the cover body illustrated in Figure 66.

Figure 68 is a third enlarged perspective view of the cover body illustrated in Figures 66 and 67.

10: Operating device

10a1, 10a2: first stationary adjacent surface

10b: Second stationary adjacent surface

14: Base components

16: Subject

20: Base plate

21: Cable guide components

26: First operating component

49: Movable components

53: The third pawl

55: Cable tightening components

55a: first adjacent surface

55b: Second adjacent surface

56:Support shaft

57: Support structure

59: First input component

60: Second input component

62: Restriction components

70: Restriction Department

72: Cable guide part

78: Base part

A3: Position the ratchet axis

R1: First moving range

R2: Second moving range

Claims (32)

An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle; a movable member movably fixed relative to the base member, the movable member comprising a positioning ratchet and a cable tightening member, the cable tightening member being coupled to the positioning ratchet to move with the positioning ratchet; and a first operating member pivotally coupled to the base member to pivot around a first pivot axis to move the movable member, and pivotally coupled to the base member around a second pivot axis different from the first pivot axis when the movable member remains stationary; The base member includes an attachment portion configured such that a limiting member is configured to be fixedly connected to the attachment portion, and the limiting member includes a limiting portion configured to limit the movement range of the positioning ratchet from a first movement range to a second movement range different from the first movement range, the limiting member being a member separate from the base member. An operating device as described in claim 1, wherein: When the operating device is in a first state, the movable member can move freely within the first moving range without contacting the limiting portion, When the operating device is in a second state, the moving range of the movable member is limited to moving within the second moving range by contacting the limiting portion. An operating device as described in claim 2, wherein: the limiting member is configured to be detachably fixed to the attachment portion, the limiting member is configured to be separated from the attachment portion when the operating device is in the first state, and the limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion when the operating device is in the second state. An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle; and a movable member movably fixed relative to the base member, the movable member comprising a positioning ratchet and a cable tightening member, the cable tightening member being coupled to the positioning ratchet to move with the positioning ratchet; the base member comprising an attachment portion configured such that a limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion, the limiting member comprising a limiting portion configured to limit the moving range of the movable member from a first moving range to a second moving range different from the first moving range, when the operating device is in a first state, the movable member can move freely within the first moving range without contacting the limiting portion, When the operating device is in a second state, the movable member is limited in its range of movement to move within the second range of movement by contacting the limiting portion, the limiting member is configured to be detachably fixed to the attachment portion, the limiting member is configured to be separated from the attachment portion when the operating device is in the first state, and the limiting member is configured to be fixed to the attachment portion when the operating device is in the second state. An operating device as described in claim 2 or 4, wherein: the limiting member is configured to be positioned at a first position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the first state, the limiting member is configured to be positioned at a second position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the second state, and the first position is different from the second position. An operating device as described in claim 5, wherein: The limiting member is configured to be removed from the base member at the first position. The operating device as described in claim 5 further comprises: A handle cover at least partially covering the base member, and when the operating device is in the first state, the limiting member is not positioned between the base member and the handle cover at the first position. An operating device as described in claim 5, wherein: The limiting member is configured to be slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion. An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member configured to be coupled to the human-powered vehicle; and a movable member movably fixed relative to the base member, the movable member comprising a positioning ratchet and a cable tightening member, the cable tightening member coupled to the positioning ratchet to move with the positioning ratchet, wherein the base member comprises an attachment portion configured to allow a limiting member to be fixed to the attachment portion, the limiting member comprises a limiting portion configured to limit the moving range of the movable member from a first moving range to a second moving range different from the first moving range, When the operating device is in a first state, the movable member can move freely within the first movement range without contacting the limiting portion, When the operating device is in a second state, the movement range of the movable member is limited to movement within the second movement range by contacting the limiting portion, The limiting member is configured to be slidably fixed relative to the attachment portion, The limiting member is configured to be positioned at a first position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the first state, The limiting member is configured to be positioned at a second position relative to the base member when the operating device is in the second state, and The first position is different from the second position. An operating device as described in claim 4 or 9, wherein: The limiting member is configured to slide linearly relative to the attachment portion. An operating device as described in claim 4 or 9, wherein: the attachment portion includes one of a guide rail and a groove, and the limiting portion includes the other of the guide rail and the groove, and the guide rail is disposed in the groove. An operating device as described in claim 11, wherein: the attachment portion (64; 164; 264) includes the guide rail and a first opening configured to engage with the limiting portion, the limiting portion includes the groove, and the guide rail defines an edge of the first opening. An operating device as claimed in claim 4 or 9, wherein: The limiting member includes a base portion accessible by a user to move the limiting member between the first position and the second position. An operating device as described in claim 4 or 9, wherein: The limiting member further includes a positioning portion, which is a releasable contact with an adjacent portion of the attachment portion, and the positioning portion is configured to limit the movement of the limiting member toward the first position when the limiting member is in the second position. An operating device as described in claim 4 or 9, wherein: the attachment portion includes a second opening, and the second opening is configured to allow a steel cable to pass through. The operating device as described in claim 15 further comprises: A cover body, which is detachably coupled to the attachment portion so as to at least partially cover the second opening of the attachment portion when the cover body is attached to the attachment portion. An operating device as described in claim 16, wherein: The cover includes a cable guide portion configured to guide the cable relative to the base member. An operating device as described in claim 16, wherein: The cover includes a retaining portion that fastens the cover to the base member. An operating device as described in claim 1 or 4, wherein: The limiting member further includes a retaining portion, which fastens the limiting portion to the base member when the operating device is in the second state. The operating device as described in claim 1 or 4 further comprises: A cover configured to be fixedly connected to the attachment portion, and the cover at least partially covers the attachment portion when the operating device is in the first state. An operating device as described in claim 1 or 4, wherein: The limiting member further includes a cable guide portion, which is configured to guide a cable relative to the base member when the operating device is in the second state. An operating device as described in claim 21, wherein: the attachment portion includes a first opening and a second opening, the first opening is configured to engage with the limiting portion, and the second opening is configured to engage with the cable guide portion to pass the cable. An operating device as claimed in claim 1, 4 or 9, wherein: The limiting member further comprises a positioning portion (76; 276) configured to position the limiting portion relative to the base member when the operating device is in the second state. An operating device as described in claim 1, 4 or 9, wherein: When the operating device is in the first state, the cable tightening member cannot contact the limiting portion, and When the operating device is in the second state, the cable tightening member can contact the limiting portion. An operating device as described in claim 1, 4 or 9, wherein: the positioning ratchet is pivotally fixed relative to the base member around a positioning ratchet axis, and the cable tightening member and the positioning ratchet are axially positioned along the positioning ratchet axis. An operating device as described in claim 1, 4 or 9, wherein: The movable member includes a first adjacent surface configured to selectively contact a first stationary adjacent surface of the operating device to establish a first stop position defining a first end of the first moving range and the first end of the second moving range, The movable member includes a second adjacent surface configured to selectively contact the limiting portion when the operating device is in the second state to establish a second stop position defining a second end of the second moving range, and The second adjacent surface is configured to selectively contact a second stationary adjacent surface of the operating device to establish a third stop position defining the second end of the first moving range. The operating device of claim 26 further comprises: A deflection member that deflects the movable member toward the first stop position. The operating device as described in claim 1 further comprises: A second operating member, which is pivotally coupled to the base member and operably coupled to the positioning ratchet. The operating device as described in claim 28 further comprises: a first pawl configured to move the positioning ratchet in a first direction as the first operating member moves from a first seated position to a first operating position, and a second pawl configured to move the positioning ratchet in a second direction as the second operating member moves from a second seated position to a second operating position. An operating device as described in claim 1, wherein: The first operating member is configured to operate a brake device when the first operating member is in the first operating position. An operating device as described in claim 1, 4 or 9, further comprising: The limiting member. An operating device as described in claim 1, 4 or 9, wherein: The base member includes: A coupling end configured to be coupled to the handlebar; A free end opposite to the coupling end; and A grip portion disposed between the coupling end and the free end.