TWI785628B - Inner link plates for bicycles and chains for bicycles - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] It is desired to provide a bicycle chain capable of appropriately preventing deformation of an inner link piece. [Solution] A bicycle chain (7) includes a first chain roller (9), a second chain roller (11), and a first inner link piece (13). The first chain roller (9) and the second chain roller (11) are arranged at intervals from each other. The first inner link piece (13) includes a first end portion (31) and a second end portion (32). The first end portion (31) has a first outer edge portion (31b). A first radial distance (D1) between at least a part of the first outer edge portion (41b) and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller (9) is greater than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

Description

Inner link plates for bicycles and chains for bicycles

The present invention relates to a bicycle chain.

A conventional bicycle chain is a sprocket assembly that meshes with a sprocket that is wound around a crank assembly and a rear wheel. A bicycle chain includes a plurality of chain rollers, a pair of inner link pieces, and a pair of outer link pieces.

[Problem to be solved by the invention]

It is an object of the present invention to provide a bicycle chain capable of suppressing deformation of an inner link piece. [Means to solve the problem]

A bicycle chain according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a first chain roller, a second chain roller, and a first inner link piece. The first chain roller and the second chain roller are disposed at intervals from each other. The first inner link piece includes a first end and a second end. The first end has a first central axis and is used to support the first chain roller. The second end has a second central axis and is used to support the second chain roller. The first end has an outer edge. At least a part of the outer edge portion is disposed either outside or inside of the first chain roller in a radial direction with respect to the first central axis. A radial distance between at least a part of the outer edge portion and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller is greater than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

In this bicycle chain, the radial distance between at least a part of the outer edge of the first end of the first inner link and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller is greater than 0 mm and not greater than 0.2 mm. With this structure, the sprocket teeth are less likely to come into contact with the outer edge portion of the first inner link piece, and deformation of the first inner link piece can be suppressed. Furthermore, even if the sprocket teeth abut against the outer edge portion of the first inner link piece, the sound generated due to the abutment between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

A bicycle chain according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a first chain roller, a second chain roller, and a first inner link piece. The first chain roller and the second chain roller are disposed at intervals from each other. The first inner link piece includes a first end and a second end. The first end has a first central axis and is used to support the first chain roller. The second end has a second central axis and is used to support the second chain roller. In the axial direction with respect to the first central axis, the minimum axial length of the first end portion is 0.79 mm or less. The first end has an outer edge. The radial distance between at least a part of the outer edge portion and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller is not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

In this bicycle chain, the radial distance between at least a part of the outer edge of the first end of the first inner link and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller is 0 mm or more and 0.2 mm or less. With this structure, the sprocket teeth are less likely to come into contact with the outer edge portion of the first inner link piece, and deformation of the first inner link piece can be suppressed. In this bicycle chain, since the minimum axial length of the first end portion is 0.79 mm or less, this bicycle chain can be applied even when the sprocket assembly has a large number of sprockets.

A bicycle chain of a third aspect of the present invention is further provided with a second inner link piece in the bicycle chain of the first or second aspect. The second inner link piece is arranged at a distance from the first inner link piece in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis in a state mounted on the bicycle. The first chain roller and the second chain roller are arranged between the first inner link piece and the second inner link piece in the axial direction.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

According to a fourth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the bicycle chain of the third aspect, the first inner link piece includes an intermediate portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion. The middle portion has a first chamfered portion on a surface facing the second inner link piece in a state of being mounted on a bicycle.

In this case, since the intermediate portion has the above-mentioned first chamfered portion, the bicycle chain can be smoothly shifted.

According to a fifth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the bicycle chain of the third or fourth aspect, the first inner link piece includes an intermediate portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion. The middle portion has a first concave portion on a surface facing the second inner link piece when it is attached to the bicycle.

In this case, since the intermediate portion has the above-mentioned first recess, the axial distance between the first inner link piece and the second inner link piece can be enlarged. Thereby, the sprocket teeth can be appropriately engaged between the first inner link piece and the second inner link piece in the axial direction.

A sixth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention is any one of the bicycle chains of the third to fifth aspects, further comprising a first outer link piece and a second outer link piece. The first inner link piece is disposed between the first outer link piece and the second inner link piece in the axial direction when mounted on the bicycle. The second inner link piece is disposed between the second outer link piece and the first inner link piece in the axial direction when mounted on the bicycle.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

In the seventh aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the sixth aspect of the bicycle chain, the first outer link is mounted on the bicycle, and the surface facing the second outer link is Has a second chamfer.

In this case, since the first outer link piece has the above-mentioned second chamfered portion, the bicycle chain can be smoothly shifted.

In the eighth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the sixth or seventh aspect of the bicycle chain, the first outer link piece faces the second outer link piece when mounted on the bicycle. The face has a second recess.

In this case, since the first outer link piece has the second recess, the axial distance between the first outer link piece and the second outer link piece can be enlarged. Thereby, the sprocket teeth can be appropriately engaged between the first outer link piece and the second outer link piece in the axial direction.

A bicycle chain according to a ninth aspect of the present invention includes a first chain roller and a second chain roller, a first inner link piece, and a second inner link piece. The first chain roller and the second chain roller are disposed at intervals from each other. The first inner link piece includes: a first end portion, a second end portion, and a middle portion. The first end has a first central axis and is used to support the first chain roller. The second end has a second central axis and is used to support the second chain roller. The middle part is used to connect the first end part and the second end part. The second inner link piece is arranged at a distance from the first inner link piece in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis in a state mounted on the bicycle.

The middle portion has a first concave portion on a surface facing the second inner link piece when it is attached to the bicycle. The first end has an outer edge. The radial distance between at least a part of the outer edge portion and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller is not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

In this bicycle chain, the radial distance between at least a part of the outer edge of the first end of the first inner link and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller is 0 mm or more and 0.2 mm or less. With this structure, the sprocket teeth are less likely to come into contact with the outer edge portion of the first inner link piece, and deformation of the first inner link piece can be suppressed. Furthermore, even if the sprocket teeth abut against the outer edge portion of the first inner link piece, the sound generated due to the abutment between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

Furthermore, since the intermediate portion of the first inner link piece has the above-mentioned first concave portion, the axial distance between the first inner link piece and the second inner link piece can be enlarged. Thereby, the sprocket teeth can be appropriately engaged between the first inner link piece and the second inner link piece in the axial direction.

In the bicycle chain of a tenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the bicycle chains of the first to ninth aspects, the first end portion has an annular portion. The annular portion is arranged to face the inner peripheral surface of the first chain roller and supports the first chain roller.

The radial distance, when the first chain roller is in contact with the annular portion toward the longitudinal direction of the first inner link, is when the first chain roller and the first inner link are viewed in the axial direction relative to the first central axis. The distance between at least a part of the outer edge of the link and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

In the eleventh aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the tenth aspect of the bicycle chain, the longitudinal direction is defined as: from either one of the first central axis and the second central axis toward the first central axis The direction of either one of the center and the second central axis.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

In the bicycle chain of the twelfth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the bicycle chains of the first to eleventh aspects, the radial distance is 0.1 mm.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

In the bicycle chain of the thirteenth type of the present invention, in any of the bicycle chains of the first to twelfth types, the area used to define the radial distance is defined by the first reference line and the second reference line. defined. The first reference line passes through the first central axis and the second central axis when viewing the first chain roller and the first inner link in an axial direction relative to the first central axis. The second reference line has an angle smaller than 180 degrees relative to the first reference line and extends radially outward from the first central axis. Radial distances are defined within regions.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the bicycle chain of the thirteenth aspect, the second reference line is perpendicular to the first reference line.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

A fifteenth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention is the bicycle chain of the thirteenth or fourteenth aspect, in which the second reference line extends toward the rotational axis of the sprocket of the bicycle in a state attached to the bicycle.

In this case, since the aforementioned area becomes smaller, deformation of the first inner link piece can be prevented more appropriately. Moreover, the sound generated by the abutment between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be further reduced.

A bicycle chain according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention is any one of the bicycle chains according to the ninth to fifteenth aspects, further comprising: a first outer link piece and a second outer link piece. The first inner link piece is disposed between the first outer link piece and the second inner link piece in the axial direction when mounted on the bicycle. The second inner link piece is disposed between the second outer link piece and the first inner link piece in the axial direction when mounted on the bicycle.

This structure can also suitably prevent deformation of the first inner link piece. Furthermore, the sound generated by the contact between the sprocket teeth and the first inner link piece can be reduced.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the bicycle chain of the present invention, in the bicycle chain of the sixteenth aspect, in the state where the first outer link piece is mounted on the bicycle, the surface facing the second outer link piece is Has a second chamfer.

In this case, since the first outer link piece has the above-mentioned second chamfered portion, the bicycle chain can be smoothly shifted.

In the bicycle chain of an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the bicycle chain of the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, the first outer link piece faces the second outer link piece when mounted on the bicycle. The face has a second recess.

In this case, since the first outer link piece has the second recess, the axial distance between the first outer link piece and the second outer link piece can be enlarged. Thereby, the sprocket teeth can be appropriately engaged between the first outer link piece and the second outer link piece in the axial direction.

In the bicycle chain of a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the bicycle chains of the first to eighteenth aspects, the maximum axial length in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis is 5.62 mm or less.

Since the maximum axial length of the present bicycle chain is 5.62 mm or less, the present bicycle chain can be applied even when the sprocket assembly has a large number of sprockets. [Invention effect]

According to the present invention, the deformation of the inner link piece can be suppressed in the bicycle chain.

As shown in FIG. 1 , a bicycle 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a front sprocket assembly 3 , a rear sprocket assembly 5 , and a chain 7 (an example of a bicycle chain). The chain 7 is wound around the front sprocket assembly 3 and the rear sprocket assembly 5 . The driving force from the front sprocket assembly 3 is transmitted to the rear sprocket assembly 5 via the chain 7 . The front sprocket assembly 3, the rear sprocket assembly 5, and the chain 7 constitute a drive unit.

＜Chain＞ As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the chain 7 includes a first chain roller 9 and a second chain roller 11 , and a first inner link piece 13 . The chain 7 further includes a second inner link piece 15 . The chain 7 further includes a first outer link piece 17 and a second outer link piece 19 . As shown in FIG. 3 , the chain 7 further includes a first connecting pin 21 and a second connecting pin 23 .

Specifically, the chain 7 includes a plurality of first chain rollers 9 and a plurality of second chain rollers 11, a plurality of first inner link pieces 13, a plurality of second inner link pieces 15, and a plurality of second inner link pieces. 1 outer link piece 17 , a plurality of second outer link pieces 19 , a plurality of first connecting pins 21 , and a plurality of second connecting pins 23 .

(1st chain roller and 2nd chain roller) As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first chain roller 9 and the second chain roller 11 are arranged at intervals from each other. Specifically, the first chain rollers 9 are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the first inner link piece 13 and/or in the longitudinal direction of the second inner link piece 15 .

The first chain roller 9 and the second chain roller 11 are arranged between the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction. The first chain roller 9 and the second chain roller 11 are rotatably supported by the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15 .

Specifically, the first chain roller 9 is substantially formed in an annular shape. The first chain roller 9 has a first central axis C1. The first chain roller 9 is arranged between the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis C1. The first chain roller 9 is arranged on the first end portion 31 (described later) of the first inner link piece 13 and the third end portion of the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction relative to the first central axis C1. Between the ends 35 (described later).

The first chain roller 9 is supported by the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15 . Specifically, the first chain roller 9 is supported by the first end portion 31 of the first inner link piece 13 and the third end portion 35 of the second inner link piece 15 . More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the first chain roller 9 is formed by the first annular portion 31c (described later) of the first end portion 31 and the third annular portion 35c (described later) of the third end portion 35 ( hereinafter) supported.

The second chain roller 11 is substantially formed in an annular shape. The second chain roller 11 has a second central axis C2. The second chain roller 11 is arranged between the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction with respect to the second central axis C2. The second chain roller 11 is disposed on the second end portion 32 (described later) of the first inner link piece 13 and the fourth end portion of the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction relative to the second central axis C2. between ends 36 (described later).

The second chain roller 11 is supported by the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15 . Specifically, the second chain roller 11 is supported by the second end portion 32 of the first inner link piece 13 and the fourth end portion 36 of the second inner link piece 15 . As shown in FIG. 3, in more detail, the second chain roller 11 is formed by the second annular portion 32c (described later) of the second end portion 32 and the fourth annular portion 36c (described later) of the fourth end portion 36 ( hereinafter) supported.

(1st inner link piece and 2nd inner link piece) 1st inner link piece As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first inner link piece 13 is disposed between the first outer link piece 17 and the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction. Specifically, when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 , the first inner link piece 13 is arranged between the first outer link piece 17 and the second inner link piece 15 in the axial direction.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the first inner link piece 13 is, for example, a long piece in one direction. The first inner link piece 13 includes a first end portion 31 and a second end portion 32 . The first inner link piece 13 further includes: a first intermediate portion 33 (intermediate portion) connecting the first end portion 31 (an example of the first end portion) to the second end portion 32 (an example of the second end portion). an example of ).

-1st end- As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 , the first end portion 31 supports the first chain roller 9 . The first end portion 31 has a first central axis X1. The first center axis X1 is substantially coaxial with the first rotation center axis C1 of the first chain roller 9 .

As shown in FIG. 4 , the first end portion 31 is substantially formed in a disc shape. A first hole portion 31 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the first center axis X1 is formed in the first end portion 31 .

The first end portion 31 has a first outer edge portion 31b. The first end portion 31 further has a first annular portion 31c. The first outer edge portion 31b is substantially formed in an arc shape. Specifically, the first outer edge portion 31b is formed in an arc shape centered on the first central axis X1.

At least a part of the first outer edge portion 31b is arranged on either the outside or inside of the first chain roller 9 in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis X1. In the present embodiment, at least a part of the first outer edge portion 31b is arranged outside the first chain roller 9 in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis X1. Specifically, the entire first outer edge portion 31b is arranged outside the first chain roller 9 in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis X1.

A first radial distance D1 is defined between the first outer edge portion 31b and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 . The first radial distance D1 is in the axial direction relative to the first center axis X1 in a state where the first chain roller 9 is in contact with the first annular portion 31c toward the longitudinal direction of the first inner link piece 13 The distance between at least a part of the first outer edge portion 31b and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 when the first chain roller 9 and the first inner link are observed.

Here, a slight gap is provided between the inner peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 and the outer peripheral surface of the first annular portion 31c. The state where the first chain roller 9 is in contact with the first annular portion 31c is, for example, a state where the inner peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 is in contact with the first annular portion 31c. The longitudinal direction is defined as a direction from either one of the first central axis X1 and the second central axis X2 (described later) toward the other of the first central axis X1 and the second central axis X2. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction is defined as a direction from the first central axis X1 toward the second central axis X2.

In order to define the first radial distance D1, the first region R1 is set. In other words, the first radial distance D1 is defined within the first region R1. Specifically, the portion included in the first region R1 of the first outer edge portion 31b is a portion to be targeted by the first radial distance D1.

The first region R1 is defined by the first reference line L1 and the second reference line L2. The first reference line L1 passes through the first central axis X1 and the second central axis X2 when viewing the first chain roller 9 and the first inner link in the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1.

The second reference line L2 has an angle of less than 180 degrees with respect to the first reference line L1 and extends radially outward from the first central axis X1. In this embodiment, the second reference line L2 is perpendicular to the first reference line L1. When the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1, it is preferable that the second reference line L2 extends toward the rotation axis SC1 of the bicycle sprocket (for example, the rotation axis of the rear sprocket; refer to FIG. 1 ).

More specifically, when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 and the first outer edge portion 31b in the first region R1 is disposed on the side of the rotation axis SC1 of the bicycle sprocket, the second reference line L2 is directed toward It is preferable that the rotation axis SC1 side of the sprocket of the bicycle extends.

The first radial distance D1 between at least a part of the first outer edge portion 31b and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 is greater than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm. Specifically, the first radial distance D1 between the first outer edge portion 31b in the first region R1 and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 is greater than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm. In this embodiment, the first radial distance D1 is, for example, 0.1 mm.

As will be described later, when the first intermediate portion 33 has the first concave portion 33c, at least a part of the first outer edge portion 31b (the first outer edge portion 31b in the first region R1) and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 The first radial distance D1 between them is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

Furthermore, when the first minimum axial length d1 of the first end portion 31 in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis X1, for example, the thickness of the first end portion 31 is 0.79 mm or less, the first outer edge portion 31b The first radial distance D1 between at least a part (the first outer edge portion 31b in the first region R1 ) and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first annular portion 31c supports the first chain roller 9 . The 1st annular part 31c is arrange|positioned so that it may oppose the inner peripheral surface of the 1st chain roller 9. As shown in FIG.

The first annular portion 31c is substantially formed in an annular shape. The first annular portion 31c is integrally formed with the first end portion 31 . Specifically, the first annular portion 31c is provided at the first end portion 31 and surrounds the first hole portion 31a in the circumferential direction with respect to the first central axis X1.

The first annular portion 31c protrudes from the first end portion 31 in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis X1. Specifically, the first annular portion 31c protrudes in an axial direction relative to the first center axis X1 from the first end portion 31 toward the second inner link piece 15 (for example, a third end portion 35 described later).

-2nd end- As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 , the second end portion 32 supports the second chain roller 11 . The second end portion 32 has a second central axis X2. The second center axis X2 is substantially coaxial with the second rotation center axis C2 of the second chain roller 11 .

As shown in FIG. 4, the second end portion 32 is substantially formed in a disc shape. A second hole portion 32 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the second central axis X2 is formed in the second end portion 32 .

The second end portion 32 has a second outer edge portion 32b. The second end portion 32 further has a second annular portion 32c. The second outer edge portion 32b is substantially formed in an arc shape. Specifically, the second outer edge portion 32b is formed in an arc shape centered on the second central axis X2.

At least a part of the second outer edge portion 32b is disposed on either the outside or inside of the second chain roller 11 in the radial direction with respect to the second central axis X2. In the present embodiment, at least a part of the second outer edge portion 32b is arranged outside the second chain roller 11 in the radial direction with respect to the second central axis X2. Specifically, the entirety of the second outer edge portion 32b is arranged outside the second chain roller 11 in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis X1.

A second radial distance D2 is defined between the second outer edge portion 32b and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 . The second radial distance D2, when the second chain roller 11 is in contact with the second annular portion 32c toward the longitudinal direction of the first inner link, is the second radial distance D2 when viewed in the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2. 2 Distance between at least a part of the second outer edge portion 32b of the chain roller 11 and the first inner link and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11.

Here, a slight gap is provided between the inner peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 and the outer peripheral surface of the second annular portion 32c. The state where the second chain roller 11 is in contact with the second annular portion 32c is, for example, a state where the inner peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 is in contact with the second annular portion 32c. The longitudinal direction is defined as a direction from any one of the first central axis X1 and the second central axis X2 to the other of the first central axis X1 and the second central axis X2. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction is defined as a direction from the first central axis X1 toward the second central axis X2.

In order to define the second radial distance D2, the second region R2 is set. In other words, the second radial distance D2 is defined within the second region R2. Specifically, the portion included in the second region R2 of the second outer edge portion 32b is a portion to be targeted by the second radial distance D2.

The second region R2 is defined by the first reference line L1 and the third reference line L3. The third reference line L3 has an angle of less than 180 degrees with respect to the first reference line L1 and extends radially outward from the second central axis X2. In this embodiment, the third reference line L3 is perpendicular to the first reference line L1. When the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1, it is preferable that the third reference line L3 extends toward the rotation axis SC2 of the bicycle sprocket (for example, the rotation axis of the front sprocket; refer to FIG. 1 ).

More specifically, when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 and the second outer edge portion 32b in the second region R2 is disposed on the side of the rotation axis SC1 of the bicycle sprocket, the third reference line L3 is oriented toward It is preferable that the rotation axis SC1 side of the sprocket of the bicycle extends.

The second radial distance D2 between at least a part of the second outer edge portion 32b and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 is greater than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm. Specifically, the second radial distance D2 between the second outer edge portion 32b in the second region R2 and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 is greater than 0 mm and not greater than 0.2 mm. In this embodiment, the second radial distance D2 is, for example, 0.1 mm.

As will be described later, when the first intermediate portion 33 has the first concave portion 33c, at least a part of the second outer edge portion 32b (the second outer edge portion 32b in the second region R2) and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 The second radial distance D2 between them is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

Furthermore, when the second minimum axial length d2 of the second end portion 32 in the axial direction with respect to the second central axis X2, for example, the thickness of the second end portion 32 is 0.79 mm or less, the second outer edge portion 32b The first radial distance D1 between at least a part (the second outer edge portion 32 b in the second region R2 ) and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the second annular portion 32c supports the second chain roller 11 . The 2nd annular part 32c is arrange|positioned so that it may oppose the inner peripheral surface of the 2nd chain roller 11. As shown in FIG.

The second annular portion 32c is substantially formed in an annular shape. The second annular portion 32c is integrally formed with the second end portion 32 . Specifically, the second annular portion 32c is provided at the second end portion 32 and surrounds the second hole portion 32a in the circumferential direction with respect to the second central axis X2.

The second annular portion 32c protrudes from the second end portion 32 in the axial direction with respect to the second central axis X2. Specifically, the second annular portion 32c protrudes in an axial direction relative to the second central axis X2 from the second end portion 32 toward the second inner link piece 15 (for example, a fourth end portion 36 described later).

-The first middle part- As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first intermediate portion 33 is integrally formed with the first end portion 31 and the second end portion 32 . The outer edge portion 33a of the first intermediate portion 33 is curved concavely toward a straight line (first reference line L1) connecting the first center axis X1 and the second center axis X2 (see FIG. 4 ).

The first intermediate portion 33 has a first chamfered portion 33b on a surface facing the second inner link piece 15 in a state of being attached to the bicycle. The first chamfered portion 33b is formed by chamfering the corner portion of the outer edge portion 33a of the first intermediate portion 33 . For example, the first chamfered portion 33b is formed by chamfering a corner portion formed by the bottom of the first concave portion 33c described later and the outer edge portion 33a of the first intermediate portion 33 .

In this embodiment, the first chamfered portion 33b extends from the outer edge portion 33a of the first intermediate portion 33 to the first outer edge portion 31b of the first end portion 31 and the second outer edge portion of the second end portion 32 32b (refer to Figure 1). That is, the first chamfered portion 33 b is also included in the first outer edge portion 31 b of the first end portion 31 and the second outer edge portion 32 b of the second end portion 32 .

The first intermediate portion 33 has a first concave portion 33c on a surface facing the second inner link piece 15 when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 . For example, the first concave portion 33 c is formed in a concave shape in a direction away from the second inner link piece 15 . Here, the direction away from the second inner link piece 15 is along the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1 and/or the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2.

2nd inner link piece As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the second inner link piece 15 is arranged at a distance from the first inner link piece 13 in the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1. Specifically, when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 , the second inner link piece 15 is arranged at a distance from the first inner link piece 13 in the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1.

The second inner link piece 15 is disposed between the second outer link piece 19 and the first inner link piece 13 in the axial direction. Specifically, when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 , the second inner link piece 15 is arranged between the second outer link piece 19 and the first inner link piece 13 in the axial direction.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the second inner link piece 15 is, for example, a long piece in one direction. The second inner link piece 15 includes a third end portion 35 and a fourth end portion 36 . The second inner link piece 15 further includes a second intermediate portion 37 connecting the third end portion 35 and the fourth end portion 36 .

The third end portion 35 has substantially the same structure as the first end portion 31 . A third hole portion 35 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the first center axis X1 is formed in the third end portion 35 . The third end portion 35 has a third outer edge portion 35b. The third outer edge portion 35b has substantially the same structure as the first outer edge portion 31b. The third end portion 35 further has a third annular portion 35c. The third annular portion 35c is arranged at a distance from the first annular portion 31c in the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1 (see FIG. 3 ).

The third radial distance D3 between at least a part of the third outer edge portion 35b (the third outer edge portion 35b in the third region R3) and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 0.2 mm. . For example, the third radial distance D3 is 0.1 mm. The third radial distance D3 is defined on the basis of the third annular portion 35c in the same manner as the first radial distance D1. The third region R3 is defined in the same manner as the first region R1.

As will be described later, when the second intermediate portion 37 has the second concave portion 37c, at least a part of the third outer edge portion 35b (the third outer edge portion 35b in the third region R3) and the outer peripheral surface of the third chain roller 9 The third radial distance D3 between them is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

Furthermore, when the third minimum axial length d3 of the third end portion 35 in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis X1, for example, the thickness of the third end portion 35 is 0.79 mm or less, the third outer edge portion 35b The third radial distance D3 between at least a part (the third outer edge portion 35b in the third region R3) and the outer peripheral surface of the first chain roller 9 is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

The fourth end portion 36 has substantially the same structure as the second end portion 32 . A fourth hole portion 36 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the second central axis X2 is formed in the fourth end portion 36 . The fourth end portion 36 has a fourth outer edge portion 36b. The fourth outer edge portion 36b has substantially the same structure as the first outer edge portion 31b. The fourth end portion 36 further has a fourth annular portion 36c. The fourth annular portion 36c is arranged at a distance from the second annular portion 32c in the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2 (see FIG. 3 ).

The fourth radial distance D4 between at least a part of the fourth outer edge portion 36b (the fourth outer edge portion 36b in the fourth region R4) and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 is greater than 0 mm and less than or equal to 0.2 mm. . For example, the fourth radial distance D4 is 0.1 mm. The fourth radial distance D4 is defined on the basis of the fourth annular portion 36c in the same manner as the second radial distance D2. The fourth region R4 is defined in the same manner as the second region R2.

As will be described later, when the second intermediate portion 37 has the second concave portion 37c, at least a part of the fourth outer edge portion 36b (the fourth outer edge portion 36b in the fourth region R4) and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 The fourth radial distance D4 between them is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

In addition, when the fourth minimum axial length d4 of the fourth end portion 36 in the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2, for example, the minimum thickness of the fourth end portion 36 is 0.79 mm or less, the fourth outer edge portion 36b The fourth radial distance D4 between at least a part of (the fourth outer edge portion 36b in the fourth region R4) and the outer peripheral surface of the second chain roller 11 is preferably not less than 0 mm and not more than 0.2 mm.

The second intermediate portion 37 is integrally formed with the third end portion 35 and the fourth end portion 36 . The outer edge portion 37a of the second intermediate portion 37 is curved concavely toward a straight line (first reference line L1 ) connecting the first center axis X1 and the second center axis X2 .

The second intermediate portion 37 has a second chamfered portion 37b on a surface facing the first inner link piece 13 when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 . The second chamfered portion 37b is formed by chamfering the corner portion of the outer edge portion 37a of the second intermediate portion 37 . For example, the second chamfered portion 37 b is formed by chamfering a corner portion formed by the bottom of the second recessed portion 37 c described later and the outer edge portion of the second intermediate portion 37 .

In this embodiment, the second chamfered portion 37b extends from the outer edge portion of the second intermediate portion 37 to the third outer edge portion 35b of the third end portion 35 and the fourth outer edge portion 36b of the fourth end portion 36. (Refer to Figure 1). That is, the second chamfered portion 37 b is also included in the third outer edge portion 35 b of the third end portion 35 and the fourth outer edge portion 36 b of the fourth end portion 36 .

The second intermediate portion 37 has a second concave portion 37 c on a surface facing the first inner link piece 13 when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 . For example, the second concave portion 37c is formed in a concave shape in a direction away from the first inner link piece 13 . Here, the direction away from the first inner link piece 13 is along the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1 and/or the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2.

The structure of the third end portion 35 is substantially the same as that of the first end portion 31 except for the above points. The fourth end portion 36 has substantially the same structure as the second end portion 32 . The second intermediate portion 37 has substantially the same structure as the first intermediate portion 33 .

(1st outer link piece and 2nd outer link piece) 1st outer link As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the first outer link piece 17 is, for example, a long piece in one direction. The first outer link piece 17 is arranged on the axial direction outer side of the first inner link piece 13 .

As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the first outer link piece 17 has a fifth end 41, a sixth end 42, and a first end integrally formed with the fifth end 41 and the sixth end 42. 3 middle part 43 .

The fifth end portion 41 has the aforementioned first central axis X1. The fifth end portion 41 is substantially formed in a disc shape. The fifth end portion 41 is arranged axially outside the first end portion 31 in the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1 (see FIG. 3 ). A fifth hole portion 41 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the first center axis X1 is formed in the fifth end portion 41 .

The sixth end portion 42 has the aforementioned second central axis X2. The sixth end portion 42 is substantially formed in a disc shape. The sixth end portion 42 is arranged axially outside the second end portion 32 in the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2 (see FIG. 3 ). A sixth hole portion 42 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the second center axis X2 is formed in the sixth end portion 42 .

The first outer link piece 17 further has a third chamfered portion 43b (an example of the second chamfered portion 37b) on the surface facing the second outer link piece 19 in the state where the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1. ). Specifically, in the state where the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1, the third intermediate portion 43 has a third chamfered portion 43b.

The third chamfered portion 43b is formed by chamfering the corner portion of the outer edge portion 43a of the third intermediate portion 43 . For example, the third chamfered portion 43b is formed by chamfering a corner portion formed by the bottom of the third recessed portion 43c described later and the outer edge portion 43a of the third intermediate portion 43 .

The first outer link piece 17 further has a third concave portion 43c (an example of the second concave portion 37c ) on a surface facing the second outer link piece 19 when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 . Specifically, the third intermediate portion 43 has a third recess 43c. The third concave portion 43c is formed in a concave shape in a direction away from the second outer link piece 19 . Here, the direction away from the second outer link piece 19 is along the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1 and/or the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2.

2nd outer link As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the second outer link piece 19 is, for example, a long piece in one direction. The second outer link piece 19 is arranged on the axial direction outer side of the second inner link piece 15 .

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the second outer link piece 19 has a seventh end portion 45, an eighth end portion 46, and a first end portion integrally formed with the seventh end portion 45 and the eighth end portion 46. 4 middle part 47 . The seventh end portion 45 has the aforementioned first central axis X1.

The seventh end portion 45 is substantially formed in a disc shape. The seventh end portion 45 is arranged axially outside the third end portion 35 in the axial direction relative to the first center axis X1 (see FIG. 3 ). A seventh hole 45 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the first center axis X1 is formed in the seventh end 45 .

The eighth end portion 46 has the aforementioned second central axis X2. The eighth end portion 46 is substantially formed in a disc shape. The eighth end portion 46 is arranged axially outside the fourth end portion 36 in the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2 (see FIG. 3 ). An eighth hole portion 46 a penetrating in the axial direction with respect to the second central axis X2 is formed in the eighth end portion 46 .

The second outer link piece 19 further has a fourth chamfered portion 47b (an example of a second chamfered portion) on a surface facing the first outer link piece 17 in a state where the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1. . Specifically, the fourth intermediate portion 47 has a fourth chamfered portion 47b when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle.

The fourth chamfered portion 47b is formed by chamfering the corner portion of the outer edge portion 47a of the fourth intermediate portion 47 . Specifically, the fourth chamfered portion 47b is formed by chamfering a corner portion formed by the bottom of the fourth concave portion 47c described later and the outer edge portion 47a of the fourth intermediate portion 47 .

The second outer link piece 19 further has a fourth recess 47c (an example of a second recess) on a surface facing the first outer link piece 17 when the chain 7 is attached to the bicycle 1 . Specifically, the fourth intermediate portion 47 has a fourth recess 47c. The fourth concave portion 47c is formed in a concave shape in a direction away from the first outer link piece 17 . Here, the direction away from the first outer link piece 17 is along the axial direction relative to the first central axis X1 and/or the axial direction relative to the second central axis X2.

The maximum axial length MD (see FIG. 3 ) of the first outer link piece 17 and the second outer link piece 19 having the above-mentioned structure is set as follows. The maximum axial length MD of the first outer link piece 17 and the second outer link piece 19 in the axial direction with respect to the first central axis X1 (and/or the second central axis X2 ) is 5.62 mm or less.

For example, when the number of sprockets in the rear sprocket assembly 5 is 12 or more, the maximum axial length MD of the first outer link piece 17 and the second outer link piece 19 is preferably 5.2 mm or less. For example, when the number of sprockets in the rear sprocket assembly 5 is 12, the maximum axial length MD of the first outer link piece 17 and the second outer link piece 19 is preferably 5.2 mm.

The maximum axial length MD of the first outer link piece 17 and the second outer link piece 19 is defined as the outer surface of the first outer link piece 17 on the opposite side to the first inner link piece 13 , and the outer surface of the second inner link piece 17 . The distance between the outer surfaces of the second outer link piece 19 on the opposite side of the piece 15.

(1st connecting pin and 2nd connecting pin)

As shown in Figure 2, the first connecting pin 21 and the second connecting pin 23 connect the first inner link piece 13, the second inner link piece 15, the first outer link piece 17, and the second outer link piece. Sheet 19 is linked.

Specifically, the first connecting pin 21 connects the first end portion 31 of the first inner link piece 13 , the third end portion 35 of the second inner link piece 15 , and the fifth end portion of the first outer link piece 17 . portion 41 and the seventh end portion 45 of the second outer link piece 19 are connected.

For example, the first chain roller 9 is arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the first annular portion 31 c of the first end portion 31 and the third annular portion 35 c of the third end portion 35 . In this state, the first connecting pin 21 is inserted through the first hole 31a of the first end 31 and the inner peripheral portion of the first annular portion 31c, and the third hole 35a and the third hole 35a of the third end 35. 3 the inner peripheral surface of the annular portion 35c; and fit into the fifth hole portion 41a of the fifth end portion 41 and the seventh hole portion 45a of the seventh end portion 45.

The second connecting pin 23 connects the second end portion 32 of the first inner link piece 13, the fourth end portion 36 of the second inner link piece 15, the sixth end portion 42 of the first outer link piece 17, and The eighth end portion 46 of the second outer link piece 19 is connected.

For example, the second chain roller 11 is arranged on the outer peripheral portion of the second annular portion 32 c of the second end portion 32 and the fourth annular portion 36 c of the fourth end portion 36 . In this state, the second connecting pin 23 is inserted through the second hole 32 a of the second end 32 and the inner peripheral portion of the second annular portion 32 c, and the fourth hole 36 a and the fourth hole 36 a of the fourth end 36 . 4 the inner peripheral surface of the ring-shaped portion 36c; and the sixth hole portion 42a of the sixth end portion 42 and the eighth hole portion 46a of the eighth end portion 46 are fitted.

As mentioned above, the chain 7 is assembled by attaching the 1st link pin 21 and the 2nd link pin 23 to each link piece.

<Other Embodiments>

As mentioned above, although one Embodiment of this invention was demonstrated, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, Various changes are possible in the range which does not deviate from the summary of invention. In particular, the items described in this specification can be combined arbitrarily as needed.

(a) In the above embodiment, at least a part of the first outer edge portion 31b is shown as an example where it is arranged outside the first chain roller 9 in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis X1.

Alternatively to this method, as shown in FIGS. 8 to 11, the first outer edge portion 31b in the first region R1 and the third outer edge portion 35b in the third region R3 are aligned with respect to the first center. The radial direction of the axis X1 is arranged inside the first chain roller 9 . Alternatively, the second outer edge portion 32b in the second region R2 and the fourth outer edge portion 36b in the fourth region R4 may be arranged on the second chain roller 11 in the radial direction relative to the second central axis X2. inside.

(b) In the above embodiment, it is shown that the first inner link piece 13 and the second inner link piece 15, and the first chain roller 9 and An example of the relationship between the second chain roller 11.

Instead of this method, the relationship between the first inner link piece 13 , the first chain roller 9 and the second chain roller 11 may be defined by the first and second radial distances D1 and D2 . In this case, the second inner link piece 15 is arranged on the side of the bicycle 1, and the conditions of the third and fourth radial distances D3 and D4 do not necessarily conform to the above-mentioned embodiment.

The relationship among the first inner link piece 15, the first chain roller 9, and the second chain roller 11 can also be defined by the third and fourth radial distances D3 and D4. In this case, the first inner link piece 13 is arranged on the side of the bicycle 1, and the conditions of the first and second radial distances D1 and D2 do not need to comply with the above-mentioned embodiment.

7: chain 9: 1st chain roller 11: 2nd chain roller 13: The first inner connecting rod piece 15: The second inner connecting rod piece 17: The first outer connecting rod piece 19: The second outer connecting rod piece 31: 1st end 31b: the first outer edge 31c: 1st annular part 32: 2nd end 32b: the second outer edge 32c: 2nd annular part 33: the first middle part 33b: 1st chamfering part 33c: 1st concave part 35: 3rd end 35b: the third outer edge 35c: 3rd annular part 36: 4th end 36b: 4th outer edge 36c: 4th annular part 37: the second middle part 37b: 2nd chamfering part 37c: the second recess 41: 5th end 42: 6th end 43: the third middle part 43b: 3rd chamfering part 43c: the third recess 45: 7th end 46: 8th end 47: 4th middle part 47b: 4th chamfering part 47c: 4th recess X1: 1st central axis X2: the second central axis D1~D4: 1st~4th radial distance d1~d4: Length of the 1st~4th minimum axis direction L1: 1st reference line L2: 2nd reference line L3: 3rd reference line MD: Maximum axial length R1: Region 1 R2: Region 2 R3: Region 3 R4: Region 4 SC1: The rotation axis of the sprocket

[FIG. 1] It is a side view of the bicycle which concerns on embodiment of this invention. [Fig. 2] is a partially enlarged perspective view of the chain. [Fig. 3] is a top view of the chain. [Fig. 4] is a side view of the first inner link piece. [Fig. 5] is a side view of the second inner link piece. [Fig. 6] is a side view of the first outer link piece. [Fig. 7] is a side view of the second outer link piece. [FIG. 8] is a side view of a first inner link piece according to another embodiment of the present invention. [FIG. 9] is a side view of a second inner link piece according to another embodiment of the present invention. [FIG. 10] is a side view of a first inner link piece according to another embodiment of the present invention. [FIG. 11] is a side view of a second inner link piece according to another embodiment of the present invention.

9: 1st chain roller

11: 2nd chain roller

13: The first inner connecting rod piece

31: 1st end

31a: The first hole

31b: the first outer edge

31c: 1st annular part

32: 2nd end

32a: The second hole

32b: the second outer edge

32c: 2nd annular part

33: the first middle part

33a: Outer edge

33b: 1st chamfering part

33c: 1st concave part

X1: 1st central axis

X2: the second central axis

D1, D2: 1st and 2nd radial distance

d1, d2: the length of the first and second minimum axis direction

L1: 1st reference line

L2: 2nd reference line

L3: 3rd reference line

R1: Region 1

R2: Region 2

Claims (5)

An inner link piece (13) for a bicycle, comprising: a first inner link end (31), a second inner link end (32), a first inner link middle part (33); the first inner link The inner link end (31) includes: a first outer edge (31b) and a first hole (31a) having a first central axis (X1); the second inner link end (32) includes : the second outer edge portion (32b), and the second hole portion (32a) having the second central axis (X2); the first inner link intermediate portion (33) is used to connect the first inner link end part (31) and the second inner link end (32); the first chain roller (9) is arranged around the first center axis (X1), and the first chain roller (9) is arranged around the second center axis (X2) The second chain roller (11) is arranged, and at least part of the first outer edge portion (31b) is arranged on the first chain roller (9) in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis (X1). ) inside. The inner link plate (13) for bicycle according to claim 1, wherein the parts of the first outer edge part (31b) other than the above-mentioned part are arranged radially relative to the first central axis (X1). on the outer side of the first chain roller (9). The bicycle inner link piece (13) according to claim 1, wherein all of the first outer edge portion (31b) is arranged on the first inside of the chain roller (9). A chain (7) for a bicycle, comprising: an inner link piece (13), and the first chain roller (9) rotatably supported by the above-mentioned inner link piece (13); the above-mentioned inner link piece (13) has: the first inner link end portion (31 ), the second inner link end (32), the first inner link middle part (33); the first inner link end (31) includes: the first outer edge (31b), and the first The first hole portion (31a) of the center axis (X1); the second inner link end portion (32) includes: the second outer edge portion (32b), and the second hole portion (X2) having the second center axis (X2). The hole portion (32a); the middle portion (33) of the first inner link is used to connect the end portion (31) of the first inner link and the end portion (32) of the second inner link; the first outer edge portion At least part of (31b) is arranged inside the first chain roller (9) in the radial direction with respect to the first central axis (X1). The bicycle chain (7) according to claim 4, wherein the parts of the first outer edge portion (31b) other than the above-mentioned part are arranged in the radial direction relative to the first central axis (X1) at the above-mentioned first 1 Outer side of the chain roller (9).

Images