Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Multiple controlled elements
Reexamination Certificate
1997-12-16
2001-05-08
Bucci, David A. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Multiple controlled elements
C200S061850
Reexamination Certificate
active
06227068
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to bicycle control devices and, more particularly, to a bicycle control device that includes a rotatable dial that may be manipulated by the rider's hand.
Some bicycles that have been proposed feature the use of an automatic shifter, whereby bicycle shifting is managed by an electric motor, actuator, or the like, and automatic shifting is managed on the basis of detected data such as the bicycle speed, the torque applied to the crank spindle, and the like. The automatic shifting of such automatic shifters should have a plurality of automatic shifting modes, such as an automatic shifting mode for flat terrain and an automatic shifting mode for uphill terrain. This is because the optimal shift timing varies depending on the incline of the road, the operator leg power, and the like. It is also sometimes necessary to switch from automatic shifting mode to manual shifting mode.
In the past, a lever type of switch has been used to switch between the plurality of shifting modes. However, because conventional lever types of switches protrude, there is a risk that gears will be shifted by unintentional operation of the lever. Particularly on extremely rough roads, there is considerable potential for the operator's hand to inadvertently strike the lever, resulting in unintended shifting.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a control device for a bicycle whereby shifting modes and the like are reliably switched by the operator at a location that is readily at hand, with less potential for accidental switching. In one embodiment of the present invention, a bicycle control device includes a base member adapted to be mounted to a structural member of a bicycle, a dial rotatably mounted to the base member, a detent mechanism operatively associated with the dial for providing a detenting force to the dial at a plurality of rotational positions of the dial, and a first electrical contact member operated by the dial for selectively electrically communicating with a second electrical contact member when the dial is positioned at each of the plurality of rotational positions. The switch may provide electrical signals for controlling a plurality of bicycle transmission shift modes. A button and/or display may be disposed in proximity to the dial to allow the rider to control the bicycle transmission and to view the status of the selected gears, respectively.
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Abe Takeo
Masui Takuji
Bucci David A.
Deland James A.
Hansen Colby
Shimano Inc.
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