WO2018136134A1

WO2018136134A1 - Removable road cycling aerobar

Info

Publication number: WO2018136134A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/060675
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andrew H. Cragg
Original assignee: Cragg Technologies Llc
Priority date: 2017-01-19
Filing date: 2017-11-08
Publication date: 2018-07-26

Abstract

The present invention is a single, centerlme, UCI legal handle bar extension and/or computer mount that permits the bicycle rider to assume an aerodynamic position while maintaining safe control of bicycle steering. The present invention is a Handle Bar Extension consisting of a single forward projecting bar extension element that may or may not be retractable that is mounted to the top bar of a conventional road handle bar near the center line of the bike. The Handle Bar Extension is affixed to the main handle bar using a c- clamp or similar attachment mechanism. The Handle Bar Extension is shaped to permit mounting to one side of the typical stem/bar attachment clamp. The Handle Bar Extension may contain a computer display and/or electronic shifting elements and thus serves a dual purpose of computer display mounting arm and aerobar.

Description

REMOVABLE ROAD CYCLING AEROBAR

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention is in the technical field of Bicycle Handle Bars. More particularly, the present invention is in the technical field of Handle Bar Extensions or Auxiliary Handle Bars.

[0002] The present invention also is in the technical field of Bicycle Computer Mounts. More particularly, the present invention is in the technical field of a Steerable Computer Mount.

Description of the Related Art

[0003] Current road bicycles are frequently fitted with electronic displays often referred to as computers that display such information as speed, cadence, power, etc. The computers are generally attached to the horizontal segment of the main bicycle handle bar near the handle bar centerline. The computers are generally attached with a friction fit so as to be easily removable. The computer mounting arms are generally thin so as to be lightweight. The thin mounting arm and relatively weak attachment of the computer display make them unsafe to grasp as a means of steering the bicycle.

[0004] In order to obtain an aerodynamic position on a road bicycle, many riders will attach handle bar extensions near the centerline of the main handle bar. The Handle Bar Extensions (often called Aerobars) are usually mounted in pairs and usually extend well forward of the forward limit imposed by UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) rules for race- legal road bicycles.

[0005] Shorter paired aero bars for road bicycles have been described but they have not gamed favor because they add significant bulk to the leading edge of the main handle bar and they impede the attachment of a bicycle computer.

[0006] Alternatively, riders may place their forearms on the horizontal segment of the main handle bar near the centerline of the bar. While this achieves a very aerodynamic position, it is unstable and dangerous since the handle bars are not being grasped by the rider's hands. [0007] Currently, there exists no combination of a centerline bicycle computer mount that is suitable to be used as an aerobar and that is legal for road cycling and racing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The present invention is a single, UCI legal handle bar extension with an integrated computer or computer mount that permits the bicycle rider to assume an aerodynamic position while maintaining safe control of bicycle steering.

[0009] The subject of this invention is aerodynamic Handle Bar Extensions and Computer Mounts that are UCI legal for road bicycle racing. A principal feature of this invention is a single centerline handle bar extension element that complies with Rule 1.3.022 of UCI Cycling Regulations (Version 03.06.2016). A further feature of this invention is an integrated OLED screen and computer with wireless (Bluetooth, Ant +, etc.) capability so that various bicycle parameters such as power, cadence, etc can be displayed while riding. A further feature of this invention is an array of wireless (Bluetooth, Ant +, etc.) activated buttons that control a bicycle's electronic shifting derailleurs. A further unique feature of this invention is a retractable element so that the Handle Bar Extension can be stowed out of the plane of the handle bar cross bar when not in use.

[0010] The present invention is a Handle Bar Extension consisting of a single forward projecting bar extension element that is mounted to the top bar of a conventional road handle bar near the centerline of the bike. The Handle Bar Extension is affixed to the main handle bar using a c- clamp or similar attachment mechanism. The Handle Bar Extension is shaped so as to be mounted to one side of the typical stem/bar attachment clamp. The Handle Bar Extension may contain an integrated, removable computer display and thus serves a dual purpose of computer display arm and aerobar.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Fig. 1 shows typical aerobar handle bar extensions that extend well forward of the forward end of the mam handle bar;

[0012] Fig. 2 is a picture of a professional cyclist using a standard aerobar that extends well forward of the forward end of the main handle bar. The line depicts the forward limit for UCI legal handle bar extensions for group racing; [0013] Fig, 3 is a picture of a professional cyclist in a road race who is achieving an aerodynamic position by resting his forearms on the main handle bar;

[0014] Fig. 4 is a picture of a standard bicycle computer mount;

[0015] Fig. 5 is a picture of a standard bicycle computer mount and attached computer display;

[0016] Fig. 6 is a picture of a standard bicycle computer mount and attached computer display showing that the computer is unstable if used as a steering element;

[0017] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the Handle Bar Extension with integrated computer display and shifting buttons;

[0018] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the Handle Bar Extension with integrated computer display and shifting buttons;

[0019] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the Handle Bar Extension with integrated computer display and shifting buttons showing how the Extension can be grasped for steering the bicycle;

[0020] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the Handle Bar Extension with integrated computer display and shifting buttons;

[0021] Fig. 1 1 is a perspective view of the Handle Bar Extension with integrated computer display and shifting buttons showing the computer removed.

[0022] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the retractable Handle Bar Extension in a retracted state.

[0023] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the retractable Handle Bar Extension in an extended state.

Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the retractable Handle Bar Extension in a retracted state.

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the retractable Handle Bar Extension in an extended state.

Fig. 16 is a perspective of the base element showing the release button and torsion spring.

[0027] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the extension element showing the internal stops and torsion spring. [0028] Fig, 18 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the retractable Handle Bar Extension in a retracted state.

[0029] Fig. 19 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the retractable Handle Bar Extension in an extended state.

[0030] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the Handle Bar Extension that is integrated into the stem bar cap.

[0031] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the Handle Bar Extension that is constructed of 2 symmetric fixation elements.

[0032] Fig. 22 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the Handle Bar Extension that is constructed of 2 symmetric extension elements.

[0033] Fig. 23 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the Handle Bar Extension that is constructed of a round carbon fiber extension with a standard outside diameter of 31.8mm.

[0034] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the Handle Bar Extension that is constructed of a round carbon fiber extension with integrated electronic shifting buttons (e.g., SRAM Blips).

[0035] Fig. 25 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the Handle Bar Extension that is constructed with an integrated light on the distal end.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0036] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 7 there is shown a complete Handle Bar Extension attached to the horizontal segment of a typical road style bicycle handle bar. The Handle Bar Extension is attached to one side of the main handle bar stem clamp.

[0037] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig, 7 there is shown a Handle Bar Extension containing an integrated OLED display screen and computer. The computer is Bluetooth compatible and is able to display such parameters as power output, cadence, heart rate, distance, speed, etc. The screen may receive data from ancillary components attached to the bicycle such as power meters or it may mirror the information from a smart phone application (e.g., Stages or Wahoo Apps) or Bluetooth enabled heart rate straps and monitors. [0038] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 8, there is shown a Handle Bar Extension attached via a single eccentric connection to the main handlebar. The Extension element is short enough so as not to exceed the length limit stipulated in UCI Rule 1.3.022 of UCI Cycling Regulations (Version 03.06.2016). The rale is as follows:

d) Structure

1.3.022 In competitions other than those covered by article 1.3.023, oaiy the traditional type of handlebars (see diagram structure 1») may be used. The handlebars must be positioned in an area defined as follows: above, by the horizontal plane of the point of the support of the saddle (B); below, by the horizontal line passing 10 cm below the highest point of the two wheels (these being of equal diameter) (C); at the rear by the axis of the steerer tube (D) and at the front by a vertical line passing through the front wheel spindle with a 5 cm tolerance («see diagram Structure (1A)»). The distance referred to in point (A) is not applicable to the bicycle of a rider who takes part in a sprint event on track (flying 200 m, flying lap, sprint, team sprint, keirin, 50Θ metres, and 1 kilometre), but must not exceed 10 cm in relation to the vertical line passing through the front wheel spindle.

The brake controls attached to the handlebars shall consist of two supports with levers. It must be possible to operate the brakes by pulling on the levers with the hands on the lever supports. Any extension to or reconfiguration of the supports to enable an alternative use is prohibited. A combined system of brake and gear controls is authorised.

[0039] The longitudinal axis of the base is offset from the longitudinal axis of the Handle Bar Extension so that the base can be attached to the horizontal main bar adjacent to the center bar clamp. The degree of offset of the base from the bar extension allows the operator to position the Handle Bar Extension in the centerline of the bicycle stem. [0040] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 9, there is shown how the Handle Bar Extension is grasped to enable steering of the main handle bar.

[0041] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 10, there is shown a Handle Bar Extension with 2 button type switches on the distal ventral surface that are used to control rear derailleur shifting via an electronic or wireless connection.

[0042] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 11, there is shown how the OLED display and computer can be removed from the Handle Bar Extension so that stored information can be downloaded and the device can be charged.

[0043] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 12 there is shown a complete Handle Bar Extension attached to the horizontal segment of a typical road style bicycle handle bar that demonstrates the feature of retractability. The Handle Bar Extension is in the retracted (stowed) state that would be used when the device is not needed. The device consists of several components including a base that is attached to the horizontal bar near the centerline or stem attachment plate (). The base consists of 3 sub-components. A first sub-component is the circular receiver that mates with the bar extension component (). A second sub-component is a button () that controls rotation of the bar extension relative to the base. A third sub-component is a C-clamp () that helps affix the base component to the horizontal bar. A second component is a bar extension that is affixed by an axle bolt () to the base. The bar extension consists of 2 sub-components. A first sub-component is a receiver () that mates with the base. A second sub-component is an ellipsoid extension () that is used to grasp for steering control.

[0044] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 13 there is shown the complete Handle Bar Extension attached to the horizontal segment of a typical road style bicycle handle bar. The Handle Bar Extension is in the extended state that places it in a vertical axis () just ventral to the bicycle head tube.

[0045] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 14 there is shown a side view of the complete Handle Bar Extension. The Handle Bar Extension is in the retracted (stowed) state. The Handle Bar Extension is in the extended state that places it in a vertical axis (24) just ventral to the bicycle head tube. [0046] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 15 there is shown a side view of the complete Handle Bar Extension. The button switch that is used to deploy and retract the Extension is seen on the Handle Bar Extension base.

[0047] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 16 there is shown a side view of the base assembly and sub- components. The inner surface of the base is configured to include raised features or stops () that interface with similar raised features or stops on the inner portion of the bar extension. The stops allow a mated base and bar extension to rotate freely with stops at a position of minus 90 degrees and approximately 0 degrees relative to a line parallel to the ground. A sub-component of the base is a button switch () with a spring release that is housed in the base. The button resolves against the stops on the base and bar extension to prevent movement beyond the 0 degree or minus 90 degree stop positions. Another sub-component of the base is a torsion spring () that is fitted on one end to a recess feature in the inner base () and on the other end to a recess feature in the inner portion of the bar extension. The torsion spring is tensioned when the bar extension is rotated to a position of minus 90 degrees. When the button is depressed, the bar extension is free to rotate on the base from its minus 90 degree position to a stop at the 0 degree position.

[0048] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 17 there is shown a side view of the Handle Bar Extension and sub-components. The inner surface of the Handle Bar Extension is configured to include raised features or stops () that interface with similar raised features or stops on the inner portion of the base. The stops allow the mated base and bar extension to rotate freely with stops at a position of minus 90 degrees and approximately 0 degrees. Another sub-component of the Handle Bar Extension is the torsion spring (28) that is fitted on one end to a recess in an inner base and on the other end to a recess (34) in the inner portion of a bar extension. The torsion spring is tensioned when the Handle Bar Extension is rotated to a position of minus 90 degrees.

[0049] Referring now to the invention in more detail in Fig. 18, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the complete Handle Bar Extension from a top view. The Extension is hinged near the main handle bar and rests in a retracted state on the handle bar stem.

[0050] Referring now to the invention in more detail in Fig. 19, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the complete Handle Bar Extension from a top view. The Extension is hinged near the main handle bar and can be extended by moving the Extension element through a 180 degree arc.

[0051] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 20, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the complete Handle Bar Extension from a side view. The Handle Bar Extension is integrated into the main handie bar clamp and affixed to the stem using the handle bar clamp bolts.

[0052] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 21 , there is shown an alternate embodiment of the complete Handle Bar Extension wherein the attachment mechanism comprises 2 symmetric clamps that are affixed to each side of the mam handle bar clamp.

[0053] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 22, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the complete Handle Bar Extension wherein the extension elements consist of 2 mirror image pieces that are affixed to each side of the main handle bar clamp as well as the bicycle computer.

[0054] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 23, there is shown an alternate embodiment of the complete Handle Bar Extension wherein the extension elements consist of a an attachment to the main handle bar that is configured to mate with a segment of standard diameter round handle bar tubing. The outside diameter of the tubing is approximately 31.8 mm. The tubing can be made of various metals such as aluminum, titanium or steel or it can be made of synthetic elements such as plastic or carbon fiber. The bar attachment can be made of various metals such as aluminum, titanium or steel or it can be made of synthetic elements such as plastic or carbon fiber.

[0055] In any case, the bar extension should be strong enough to resist torsion forces that are placed on extension during normal use. For instance, a standard bicycle computer mount has insufficient strength to act as a steerable aerobar. The Handle Bar Extension of the current invention can withstand bending forces that are significantly higher. This permits the Handle Bar Extension to effectively and safely function as both a computer mount and UCI legal aerobar.

[0056] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 24 there is shown a complete Handle Bar Extension containing electronic shifting elements (e.g., SRAM Blips) that can be used to control function of the bicycle derailleurs while maintaining an aerodynamic riding position.

[0057] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 25 there is shown a complete Handle Bar Extension containing an LED light affixed to the leading end of the Apparatus. The light is energized by a rechargeable integrated lithium battery that is contained in the body of the Handle Bar Extension. The battery is charged through a mini- USB port on the Handle Bar Extension. The light is turned on and off by a button on the undersurface of the Handle Bar Extension or it may be activated automatically by a light sensor.

[0058] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 12, the base of the Handle Bar Extension is attached to the horizontal segment of a typical road style bicycle handle bar at a position near the main handle bar stem clamp. The position of the base on the mAIN handle bar is adjusted laterally to center the Handle Bar Extension in the centerime of the bicycle stem. The position of the base is also rotated to position the Handle Bar Extension angle so that it is economically optimized for the best rider position. To retract the bar, the operator depresses the release button on the base and pushes the Handle Bar Extension from a 0 degree position to a minus 90 degree position. The button is then released to secure the Handle Bar Extension in the locked minus 90 degree position.

[0059] Referring now to the invention in more detail, in Fig. 13, to deploy the Handle Bar Extension, the operator depresses the button on the base and the spring tension created by the torsion spring will cause the bar extension to rotate automatically from its retracted position to its deployed position. The button is then released to secure the Handle Bar Extension in the locked 0 degree position.

[0060] In more detail, still referring to the invention of Fig. 7, the Handle Bar Extension has a length that, when mounted on a standard road bicycle handle bar, does not extend more than 5cm in front of a plumb line extending vertically through the front wheel spindle or axle. The length of the bar extension from the center of the horizontal mam bar to the tip of the bar extension will be between 10cm and 14cm.

[0061] In more detail, still referring to the invention of Fig. 7, the Handle Bar Extension has a length that, when mounted on a standard road bicycle handle bar, does not extend further forward than permitted by Rule 1.3.022 of UCI Cycling Regulations (Version 03.06.2016).

[0062] The invention as shown in Fig. 10 may be primarily constructed of composite material such as carbon fiber, metal such as titanium or aluminum or other strong lightweight materials.

[0063] The invention as shown in Fig. 10 may be primarily constructed using a variety of fabrication methods such as machining, molding or 3D printing.

[0064] The advantages of the present invention include, without limitation, the incorporation of a steering function to a bicycle computer handle bar mount.

[0065] A further advantage of the present invention is the incorporation of a single Handle Bar Extension that permits a road cyclist to assume a safe aerodynamic riding position while still complying with UCI road cycling rules for handle bar attachments to road cycling handle bars.

[0066] A further advantage of the present invention is the incorporation of electronic shifting buttons (e.g., SRAM blips) on a single handle bar extension that complies with UCI road cycling rules for handle bar attachments to road cycling handle bars.

[0067] A further advantage of the present invention is the combination of a bicycle computer and aero Handle Bar Extension that complies with UCI road cycling rules for handle bar attachments to road cycling handle bars.

[0068] A further advantage of the present invention is the function of adding retractabilitv to an aero Handle Bar Extension so that the extension is unobtrusive when not in use.

[0069] A further advantage of the present invention is the combination of an aero Handle Bar Extension, a bicycle computer, shifting buttons and a light in a single unobtrusive structure that complies with UCI road cycling rules for handle bar attachments to road cycling handle bars.

[0070] A further advantage of the present invention is that the Handle Bar Extension is significantly stronger than a typical bicycle computer mount so that, when grasped, it can be used as a safe means of steering a bicycle.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the Handle Bar Extension is constructed of strong materials such as titanium or carbon fiber so that the risk of breakage when used as a steering element is minimized. The base of the handle bar extension could be constructed of a machined piece of titanium or aluminum and extension element could be constructed of carbon fiber tubing to minimize weight. The carbon fiber tubing could be molded to create a recess that would accommodate low profile insertion of a bicycle computer and/or electronic shifting buttons.

[0072] In another embodiment, the Handle Bar Extension could be constructed in 1 or 2 pieces using 3D printing. The material for the 3D printing could be a polymer that is sufficiently strong to permit the user to exert the usual steering forces on the Extension without the risk of breakage.

[0073] The Handle Bar Extension of the present invention is stronger than a typical bicycle computer mount and therefore suitable for use as a steering element. Further, the Extension is shorter than a typical aero handle bar so that it complies with UCI road cycling rules for handle bar attachments to road cycling handle bars.

[0074] In broad embodiment, the present invention is a single Handle Bar Extension that projects from the centerline of the main bicycle handle bar, that is short enough to comply with road cycling rules for handle bar attachments to road cycling handle bars and that is strong enough to act as a safe steering element and that may contain a receptacle for a bicycle computer and that may contain receptacles for electronic shifting buttons and that may contain a receptacle for a light.

[0075] While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A Handle Bar Extension that:

a. projects forward of the faceplate and stem of a standard road bicycle in the centerline of the bicycle

b. is a single extension suitable for steering the bicycle

c. complies with UCI Rule 1.3,022 of UCI Cycling Regulations (Version 03.06.2016)

2. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein the extension has a length of greater than 10cm and less than 14cm as measured from the center of the horizontal segment of main handle bar to the tip of the Handle Bar Extension.

3. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein the extension has a lateral yield strength of greater than X newtons when mounted on a standard road cycling handle bar.

4. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein a bicycle computer is affixed to the extension.

5. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein electronic shifting elements are affixed to the extension.

6. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein a light is affixed to the extension.

7. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein a wherein the bicycle computer is integrated into a recess on the extension.

8. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein the electronic shifting elements are integrated into a recess on the extension.

9. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein an integrated OLED display communicates with peripheral electronic bicycle accessories (heart rate sensor, power meter, cadence sensor) via a wireless connection using Bluetooth or Ant +.

10. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein the diameter of the Handle Bar Extension element is greater than 15 mm.

11. A Handle Bar Extension as in Claim 1 wherein the diameter of the Handle Bar Extension element is 31.8 mm.

12. A single centerline mounted Handle Bar Extension or bicycle computer mount wherein its overall length as measured in a plane horizontal to the ground from the center point of the main handle bicycle handle bar to the forward or leading edge of the Handle Bar Extension complies with UCI Rule 1.3.022 of UCI Cycling Regulations (Version 03.06.2016) and that has a lateral yield strength when mounted on a standard road Cycling handle bar that is sufficient to withstand bending forces experienced during steering under normal use conditions.