U.S. patent application number 14/720949 was filed with the patent office on 2016-12-01 for bicycle rear sprocket assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to SHIMANO INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is SHIMANO INC.. Invention is credited to Tooru IWAI, Tetsu NONOSHITA, Etsuyoshi WATARAI, Toyoshi YOSHIDA.
Application Number | 20160347410 14/720949 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57282126 |
Filed Date | 2016-12-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160347410 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
WATARAI; Etsuyoshi ; et
al. |
December 1, 2016 |
BICYCLE REAR SPROCKET ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A bicycle rear sprocket assembly comprises a plurality of
sprocket members and a supporting member. The plurality of sprocket
members have a rotational center axis. The plurality of sprocket
members are arranged in an axial direction parallel to the
rotational center axis. The plurality of sprocket members each
include a sprocket body and a plurality of sprocket teeth. The
plurality of sprocket teeth extend radially outwardly from the
sprocket body with respect to the rotational center axis. The
supporting member is a separate member from the plurality of
sprocket members. The supporting member includes a supporting
portion and a hub engagement portion. The supporting portion is
configured to support the plurality of sprocket members. The
sprocket body of each of the plurality of sprocket members is
attached to the supporting portion of the supporting member without
using a separate metallic fastening member.
Inventors: |
WATARAI; Etsuyoshi; (Sakai
City, JP) ; IWAI; Tooru; (Sakai City, JP) ;
NONOSHITA; Tetsu; (Sakai City, JP) ; YOSHIDA;
Toyoshi; (Sakai City, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SHIMANO INC. |
Sakai City |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
SHIMANO INC.
Sakai City
JP
|
Family ID: |
57282126 |
Appl. No.: |
14/720949 |
Filed: |
May 25, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62M 9/10 20130101; F16H
55/30 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62M 9/10 20060101
B62M009/10; F16H 55/06 20060101 F16H055/06; F16H 55/30 20060101
F16H055/30 |
Claims
1. A bicycle rear sprocket assembly comprising: a plurality of
sprocket members having a rotational center axis, the plurality of
sprocket members being arranged in an axial direction parallel to
the rotational center axis, the plurality of sprocket members each
including a sprocket body, and a plurality of sprocket teeth
extending radially outwardly from the sprocket body with respect to
the rotational center axis; and a supporting member being a
separate member from the plurality of sprocket members, the
supporting member including a supporting portion configured to
support the plurality of sprocket members, the sprocket body of
each of the plurality of sprocket members being attached to the
supporting portion of the supporting member without using a
separate metallic fastening member, the sprocket body of each of
the plurality of sprocket members being attached to the supporting
portion via at least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding, and a
hub engagement portion configured to engage with a bicycle hub
assembly.
2. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1, wherein
the supporting member further includes an intermediate portion
extending between the supporting portion and the hub engagement
portion in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center
axis.
3. (canceled)
4. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1, wherein
the supporting portion includes a plurality of spacers, and the
plurality of spacers are respectively provided between adjacent two
of the plurality of sprocket members in the axial direction.
5. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 4, wherein
the plurality of spacers are respectively attached to the adjacent
two of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket
members.
6. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 5, wherein
the plurality of spacers are respectively attached to the adjacent
two of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members via
at least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding.
7. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 4, wherein
the supporting portion includes radially-supporting surfaces facing
radially outwardly with respect to the rotational center axis, and
the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members are
respectively mounted on the radially-supporting surfaces.
8. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 7, wherein
the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members are
respectively attached to the radially-supporting surfaces.
9. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 8, wherein
the supporting portion includes a plurality of spacers, and the
plurality of spacers are respectively provided between adjacent two
of the plurality of sprocket members.
10. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 9,
wherein the plurality of spacers are respectively attached to the
adjacent two of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket
members, and the plurality of spacers are respectively attached to
the radially-supporting surfaces.
11. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the supporting portion includes radially-supporting
surfaces facing radially outwardly with respect to the rotational
center axis, and first restricting parts provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces, the sprocket bodies of the plurality
of sprocket members are respectively mounted on the
radially-supporting surfaces, each of the sprocket bodies of the
plurality of sprocket members includes a second restricting part,
and the first restricting parts of the supporting portion are
configured to respectively engage with the second restricting parts
of the sprocket bodies to restrict the sprocket bodies from
rotating relative to the supporting portion about the rotational
center axis.
12. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the supporting portion includes a plurality of spacers, the
plurality of spacers are respectively provided between adjacent two
of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members, at
least one of the plurality of spacers includes a third restricting
part, at least one of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of
sprocket members includes a fourth restricting part, and the third
restricting part of the at least one of the plurality of spacers is
configured to respectively engage with the fourth restricting part
of the at least one of the sprocket bodies to restrict the at least
one of the sprocket bodies from rotating relative to the plurality
of spacers about the rotational center axis.
13. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the supporting portion includes radially-supporting
surfaces facing radially outwardly with respect to the rotational
center axis, fifth restricting parts provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces, and a plurality of spacers mounted on
the radially-supporting surfaces, the plurality of spacers are
respectively provided between adjacent two of the sprocket bodies
of the plurality of sprocket members, each of the plurality of
spacers includes a sixth restricting part, and the fifth
restricting parts are configured to respectively engage with the
sixth restricting parts of the plurality of spacers to restrict the
plurality of spacers from rotating relative to the
radially-supporting surfaces about the rotational center axis.
14. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the supporting portion includes a plurality of supporting
parts spaced apart from each other at circumferential intervals in
a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center
axis, the plurality of supporting parts respectively have maximum
circumferential lengths defined in the circumferential direction,
and each of the maximum circumferential lengths of the plurality of
supporting parts is shorter than or equal to the circumferential
intervals.
15. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the supporting portion includes a plurality of supporting
parts spaced apart from each other at circumferential intervals in
a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center
axis, the plurality of supporting parts have maximum
circumferential lengths defined in the circumferential direction,
and each of the maximum circumferential lengths of the plurality of
supporting parts is longer than the circumferential intervals.
16. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 2,
wherein the intermediate portion includes reinforcing parts
extending between the supporting portion and the hub engagement
portion in the radial direction with respect to the rotational
center axis, and the reinforcing parts are spaced apart from each
other in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational
center axis.
17. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the plurality of sprocket members are made of a first
material including at least one of an iron alloy, a titanium alloy
and an aluminum alloy.
18. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the supporting member is made of a second material
including one of an aluminum alloy and a non-metallic material.
19. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 18,
wherein the non-metallic material includes a fiber-reinforced
plastic.
20. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the plurality of sprocket members are made of a first
material, and the supporting member is made of a second material
different from the first material.
21. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 20,
wherein the first material has a first relative density, and the
second material has a second relative density smaller than the
first relative density.
22. A bicycle rear sprocket assembly comprising: a plurality of
sprocket members having a rotational center axis, the plurality of
sprocket members being arranged in an axial direction parallel to
the rotational center axis, the plurality of sprocket members each
including a sprocket body, and a plurality of sprocket teeth
extending radially outwardly from the sprocket body with respect to
the rotational center axis; a supporting member having a small
diameter end and a large diameter end opposite to the small
diameter end in the axial direction, the supporting member
including a hub supported portion configured to be supported on a
bicycle hub assembly and including a bearing supported section
closer to the small diameter end than the large diameter end in the
axial direction and configured to be supported by a bearing unit,
and a torque transmission section closer to the large diameter end
than the small diameter end in the axial direction, the torque
transmission section being configured to transmit a torque from the
plurality of sprocket members to the bicycle hub assembly, and a
supporting portion provided radially outward of the hub supported
portion with respect to the rotational center axis and configured
to support the plurality of sprocket members.
23. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 22,
wherein the hub supported portion includes an additional bearing
supported section configured to be supported by an additional
bearing unit.
24. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 23,
wherein the additional bearing supported section is positioned
between the small diameter end and the large diameter end.
25. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 23,
wherein the additional bearing supported section is closer to the
large diameter end than the small diameter end in the axial
direction.
26. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 22,
wherein the supporting member further includes an intermediate
portion extending between the supporting portion and the hub
supported portion in a radial direction with respect to the
rotational center axis, and the intermediate portion includes an
opening.
27. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 26,
wherein the intermediate portion includes reinforcing parts
extending between the supporting portion and the hub engagement
portion in the radial direction with respect to the rotational
center axis, the reinforcing parts are spaced apart from each other
in a circumferential direction with respect to the rotational
center axis, and at least one of the reinforcing parts includes the
opening.
28. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 22,
wherein the supporting member further includes an intermediate
portion extending between the supporting portion and the hub
supported portion in a radial direction with respect to the
rotational center axis; and the intermediate portion extends
between the small diameter end and the large diameter end in the
axial direction.
29. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 4,
wherein the supporting portion includes radially-supporting
surfaces facing radially outwardly with respect to the rotational
center axis, the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket
members are respectively mounted on the radially-supporting
surfaces, and the plurality of spacers are respectively provided on
the radially-supporting surfaces and are respectively separate
members from the radially-supporting surfaces.
30. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to claim 4,
wherein the plurality of spacers are separate members from the hub
engagement portion.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly.
[0003] 2. Discussion of the Background
[0004] Bicycling is becoming an increasingly more popular form of
recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover,
bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both
amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for
recreation, transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is
constantly improving the various components of the bicycle. One
bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is a bicycle
rear sprocket assembly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention,
a bicycle rear sprocket assembly comprises a plurality of sprocket
members and a supporting member. The plurality of sprocket members
have a rotational center axis. The plurality of sprocket members
are arranged in an axial direction parallel to the rotational
center axis. The plurality of sprocket members each include a
sprocket body and a plurality of sprocket teeth. The plurality of
sprocket teeth extend radially outwardly from the sprocket body
with respect to the rotational center axis. The supporting member
is a separate member from the plurality of sprocket members. The
supporting member includes a supporting portion and a hub
engagement portion. The supporting portion is configured to support
the plurality of sprocket members. The sprocket body of each of the
plurality of sprocket members is attached to the supporting portion
of the supporting member without using a separate metallic
fastening member. The hub engagement portion is configured to
engage with a bicycle hub assembly.
[0006] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the first aspect, the sprocket body of each of the plurality of
sprocket members is attached to the supporting portion of the
supporting member without using a separate metallic fastening
member. Accordingly, it is possible to save weight of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly with maintaining the necessary strength of
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.
[0007] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the first aspect is
configured so that the supporting member further includes an
intermediate portion extending between the supporting portion and
the hub engagement portion in a radial direction with respect to
the rotational center axis.
[0008] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the second aspect, the intermediate portion can maintain or improve
the strength of the supporting member.
[0009] In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the first or second
aspect is configured so that the sprocket body of each of the
plurality of sprocket members is attached to the supporting portion
via at least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding.
[0010] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the third aspect, it is possible to maintain the necessary strength
of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly without using the separate
metallic fastening member.
[0011] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one of the
first to third aspects is configured so that the supporting portion
includes a plurality of spacers. The plurality of spacers are
respectively provided between adjacent two of the plurality of
sprocket members in the axial direction.
[0012] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the fourth aspect, the plurality of spacers allow the plurality of
sprocket members to be easily positioned in the axial
direction.
[0013] In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the fourth aspect
is configured so that the plurality of spacers are respectively
attached to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies of the
plurality of sprocket members.
[0014] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the fifth aspect, the plurality of spacers allow the plurality of
sprocket members to be easily positioned in the axial
direction.
[0015] In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the fifth aspect is
configured so that the plurality of spacers are respectively
attached to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies of the
plurality of sprocket members via at least one of adhesive and
diffusion bonding.
[0016] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the sixth aspect, it is possible to maintain the necessary strength
of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly without using the separate
metallic fastening member.
[0017] In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
fourth or fifth aspect is configured so that the supporting portion
includes radially-supporting surfaces facing radially outwardly
with respect to the rotational center axis. The sprocket bodies of
the plurality of sprocket members are respectively mounted on the
radially-supporting surfaces.
[0018] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the seventh aspect, the radially-supporting surfaces can make it
easier to radially position the plurality of sprocket members
relative to the supporting portion.
[0019] In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
seventh aspect is configured so that the sprocket bodies of the
plurality of sprocket members are respectively attached to the
radially-supporting surfaces.
[0020] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the eighth aspect, it is possible to maintain the necessary
strength of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly without using the
separate metallic fastening member.
[0021] In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the eighth aspect
is configured so that the supporting portion includes a plurality
of spacers. The plurality of spacers are respectively provided
between adjacent two of the plurality of sprocket members.
[0022] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the ninth aspect, the plurality of spacers allow the plurality of
sprocket members to be easily positioned in the axial
direction.
[0023] In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the ninth aspect is
configured so that the plurality of spacers are respectively
attached to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies of the
plurality of sprocket members. The plurality of spacers are
respectively attached to the radially-supporting surfaces.
[0024] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the tenth aspect, it is possible to maintain the necessary strength
of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly without using the separate
metallic fastening member.
[0025] In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to tenth aspects is configured so that the supporting
portion includes radially-supporting surfaces and first restricting
parts. The radially-supporting surfaces face radially outwardly
with respect to the rotational center axis. The first restricting
parts are provided on the radially-supporting surfaces. The
sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members are
respectively mounted on the radially-supporting surfaces. Each of
the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members includes a
second restricting part. The first restricting parts of the
supporting portion are configured to respectively engage with the
second restricting parts of the sprocket bodies to restrict the
sprocket bodies from rotating relative to the supporting portion
about the rotational center axis.
[0026] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the eleventh aspect, the first restricting parts and the second
restricting parts can improve the strength of the engagement
between the supporting portion and the sprocket members in the
circumferential direction.
[0027] In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to eleventh aspects is configured so that the
supporting portion includes a plurality of spacer. The plurality of
spacers are respectively provided between adjacent two of the
sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members. At least one
of the plurality of spacers includes a third restricting part. At
least one of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket
members includes a fourth restricting part. The third restricting
part of the at least one of the plurality of spacers is configured
to respectively engage with the fourth restricting part of the at
least one of the sprocket bodies to restrict the at least one of
the sprocket bodies from rotating relative to the plurality of
spacers about the rotational center axis.
[0028] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twelfth aspect, the third restricting parts and the fourth
restricting parts can improve the strength of the engagement
between the spacers and the sprocket members in the circumferential
direction.
[0029] In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to twelfth aspects is configured so that the
supporting portion includes radially-supporting surfaces, fifth
restricting parts, and a plurality of spacers. The
radially-supporting surfaces face radially outwardly with respect
to the rotational center axis. The fifth restricting parts are
provided on the radially-supporting surfaces. The plurality of
spacers are mounted on the radially-supporting surfaces. The
plurality of spacers are respectively provided between adjacent two
of the sprocket bodies of the plurality of sprocket members. Each
of the plurality of spacers includes a sixth restricting part. The
fifth restricting parts are configured to respectively engage with
the sixth restricting parts of the plurality of spacers to restrict
the plurality of spacers from rotating relative to the
radially-supporting surfaces about the rotational center axis.
[0030] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the thirteenth aspect, the fifth restricting parts and the sixth
restricting parts can improve the strength of the engagement
between the supporting portion and the spacers in the
circumferential direction.
[0031] In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to thirteenth aspects is configured so that the
supporting portion includes a plurality of supporting parts spaced
apart from each other at circumferential intervals in a
circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center
axis. The plurality of supporting parts respectively have maximum
circumferential lengths defined in the circumferential direction.
Each of the maximum circumferential lengths of the plurality of
supporting parts is shorter than or equal to the circumferential
intervals.
[0032] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to save the weight of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly with maintaining the necessary
strength of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.
[0033] In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to thirteenth aspects is configured so that the
supporting portion includes a plurality of supporting parts spaced
apart from each other at circumferential intervals in a
circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center
axis. The plurality of supporting parts have maximum
circumferential lengths defined in the circumferential direction.
Each of the maximum circumferential lengths of the plurality of
supporting parts is longer than the circumferential intervals.
[0034] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to maintaining the necessary
strength of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly while saving the
weight of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.
[0035] In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to fifteenth aspects is configured so that the
intermediate portion includes reinforcing parts extending between
the supporting portion and the hub engagement portion in the radial
direction with respect to the rotational center axis. The
reinforcing parts are spaced apart from each other in a
circumferential direction with respect to the rotational center
axis.
[0036] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the sixteenth aspect, the reinforcing parts can improve the
strength of the supporting member.
[0037] In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured so that the
plurality of sprocket members are made of a first material
including at least one of an iron alloy, a titanium alloy and an
aluminum alloy.
[0038] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to save weight of the
plurality of sprocket members by using at least one of the iron
alloy, the titanium alloy and the aluminum alloy.
[0039] In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to seventeenth aspects is configured so that the
supporting member is made of a second material including one of an
aluminum alloy and a non-metallic material.
[0040] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the first aspect, it is possible to save the weight of the
supporting member by using a light material such as one of the
aluminum alloy and the non-metallic material.
[0041] In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
eighteenth aspect is configured so that the non-metallic material
includes a fiber-reinforced plastic.
[0042] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the nineteenth aspect, it is to save the weight of the supporting
member with maintaining the necessary strength of the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly.
[0043] In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the first to nineteenth aspects is configured so that the
plurality of sprocket members are made of a first material. The
supporting member is made of a second material different from the
first material.
[0044] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twentieth aspect, since the supporting member is made of the
second material different from the first material of the plurality
of sprocket members, it is possible to expand the design
possibility of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly.
[0045] In accordance with a twenty-first aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
twentieth aspect is configured so that the first material has a
first relative density. The second material has a second relative
density smaller than the first relative density.
[0046] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-first aspect, since the second material has the second
relative density smaller than the first relative density, it is
possible to save the weight of the supporting member.
[0047] In accordance with a twenty-second aspect of the present
invention, a bicycle rear sprocket assembly comprises a plurality
of sprocket members and a supporting member. The plurality of
sprocket members have a rotational center axis. The plurality of
sprocket members are arranged in an axial direction parallel to the
rotational center axis. The plurality of sprocket members each
include a sprocket body and a plurality of sprocket teeth. The
plurality of sprocket teeth extend radially outwardly from the
sprocket body with respect to the rotational center axis. The
supporting member has a small diameter end and a large diameter end
opposite to the small diameter end in the axial direction. The
supporting member includes a hub supported portion and a supporting
portion. The hub supported portion is configured to be supported on
a bicycle hub assembly. The hub supported portion includes a
bearing supported section and a torque transmission section. The
bearing supported section is closer to the small diameter end than
the large diameter end in the axial direction and is configured to
be supported by a bearing unit. The torque transmission section is
closer to the large diameter end than the small diameter end in the
axial direction. The torque transmission section is configured to
transmit a torque from the plurality of sprocket members to the
bicycle hub assembly. The supporting portion is provided radially
outward of the hub supported portion with respect to the rotational
center axis and is configured to support the plurality of sprocket
members.
[0048] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-second aspect, the hub supported portion includes the
bearing supported section and the torque transmission section. The
bearing supported section is closer to the small diameter end than
the large diameter end in the axial direction. The torque
transmission section is closer to the large diameter end than the
small diameter end in the axial direction. Accordingly, it is
possible to simplify the structure of the supporting member of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly.
[0049] In accordance with a twenty-third aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
twenty-second aspect is configured so that the hub supported
portion includes an additional bearing supported section configured
to be supported by an additional bearing unit.
[0050] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-third aspect, the additional bearing supported section
makes the hub supported portion more stable relative to the
rotational center axis.
[0051] In accordance with a twenty-fourth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
twenty-third aspect is configured so that the additional bearing
supported section is positioned between the small diameter end and
the large diameter end.
[0052] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-fourth aspect, it is possible to make a middle section
of the hub supported portion more stable relative to the rotational
center axis.
[0053] In accordance with a twenty-fifth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
twenty-third or twenty-fourth aspect is configured so that the
additional bearing supported section is closer to the large
diameter end than the small diameter end in the axial
direction.
[0054] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-fifth aspect, the additional bearing supported part can
make the larger diameter end more stable relative to the rotational
center axis.
[0055] In accordance with a twenty-sixth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the twenty-second to twenty-fifth aspects is configured so that
the supporting member further includes an intermediate portion
extending between the supporting portion and the hub supported
portion in a radial direction with respect to the rotational center
axis. The intermediate portion includes an opening.
[0056] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-sixth aspect, the opening can reduce the weight of the
supporting portions.
[0057] In accordance with a twenty-seventh aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to the
twenty-sixth aspect is configured so that the intermediate portion
includes reinforcing parts extending between the supporting portion
and the hub engagement portion in the radial direction with respect
to the rotational center axis. The reinforcing parts are spaced
apart from each other in a circumferential direction with respect
to the rotational center axis. At least one of the reinforcing
parts includes the opening.
[0058] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-seventh aspect, the reinforcing parts can improve the
strength of the supporting member while the opening can reduce the
weight of the supporting portions.
[0059] In accordance with a twenty-eighth aspect of the present
invention, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly according to any one
of the twenty-second to twenty-seventh aspects is configured so
that the intermediate portion extends between the small diameter
end and the large diameter end in the axial direction.
[0060] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with
the twenty-eighth aspect, it is possible to improve the strength of
the supporting member between the smaller diameter end and the
larger diameter end.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0061] A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of
the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the
same becomes better understood by reference to the following
detailed description when considered in connection with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0062] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly in accordance with a first embodiment;
[0063] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly taken along line II-II of FIG. 1;
[0064] FIG. 3 is an elevational view of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0065] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0066] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a supporting member of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0067] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the supporting member and
spacers of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0068] FIG. 7 is an elevational view of the supporting member and a
sprocket of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0069] FIG. 8 is an elevational view of the supporting member and
sprockets of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0070] FIG. 9 is an elevational view of the supporting member and
sprockets of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0071] FIG. 10 is an elevational view of the supporting member and
sprockets of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0072] FIG. 11 is an elevational view of the supporting member and
sprockets of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG.
1;
[0073] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one of the spacers
illustrated in FIG. 6;
[0074] FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0075] FIG. 14 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0076] FIG. 15 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0077] FIG. 16 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0078] FIG. 17 is an elevational view of the sprocket illustrated
in FIG. 13 with the spacers;
[0079] FIG. 18 is an elevational view of the sprocket illustrated
in FIG. 14 with the spacers;
[0080] FIG. 19 is an elevational view of the sprocket illustrated
in FIG. 15 with the spacers;
[0081] FIG. 20 is an elevational view of the sprocket illustrated
in FIG. 16 with the spacers;
[0082] FIG. 21 is a partial perspective view of the supporting
member and the spacers of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly
illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0083] FIG. 22 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0084] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly in accordance with a second embodiment;
[0085] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly in accordance with a third embodiment;
[0086] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0087] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the supporting member of
the bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0088] FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly taken along line XXVII-XXVII of FIG. 24;
[0089] FIG. 28 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0090] FIG. 29 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0091] FIG. 30 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0092] FIG. 31 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0093] FIG. 32 is an elevational view of a sprocket of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0094] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a spacer of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 24;
[0095] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly in accordance with a fourth embodiment;
[0096] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly illustrated in FIG. 34;
[0097] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a supporting member of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 34;
[0098] FIG. 37 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly taken along line XXXVII-XXXVII of FIG.
34;
[0099] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a spacer of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly illustrated in FIG. 34;
[0100] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly in accordance with a fifth embodiment;
[0101] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly illustrated in FIG. 39;
[0102] FIG. 41 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle
rear sprocket assembly taken along line XLI-XLI of FIG. 39;
[0103] FIG. 42 is a partial cross-sectional view of a bicycle rear
sprocket assembly in accordance with a sixth embodiment with being
mounted to a bicycle hub assembly;
[0104] FIG. 43 is a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a
bicycle rear sprocket assembly in accordance with a modification of
the sixth embodiment with being mounted to a bicycle hub assembly;
and
[0105] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly illustrated in FIG. 42.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0106] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate
corresponding or identical elements throughout the various
drawings.
First Embodiment
[0107] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a bicycle rear sprocket
assembly 10 in accordance with a first embodiment comprises a
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 and a supporting member
12. The plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 have a rotational
center axis A1. The plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are
arranged in an axial direction D1 parallel to the rotational center
axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprocket member SP1
corresponds to low gear. A total number of the sprocket members SP1
to SP5 are not limited to the illustrated embodiment.
[0108] The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 is configured to
engage with a bicycle chain C. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly
10 is configured to be rotated about the rotational center axis A1
in a driving rotational direction D21 during pedaling. The driving
rotational direction D21 is defined along a circumferential
direction D2 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10.
[0109] In the present application, the following directional terms
"front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right",
"transverse", "upward" and "downward" as well as any other similar
directional terms refer to those directions which are determined on
the basis of a user (e.g., a rider) who sits on a saddle (not
shown) of a bicycle with facing a handlebar (not shown).
Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly 10, should be interpreted relative to the bicycle
equipped with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 as used in an
upright riding position on a horizontal surface.
[0110] As seen in FIG. 1, the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to
SP5 each includes a sprocket body and a plurality of sprocket
teeth. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprocket member SP1
includes a sprocket body B1 and a plurality of sprocket teeth T1.
The sprocket member SP2 includes a sprocket body B2 and a plurality
of sprocket teeth T2. The sprocket member SP3 includes a sprocket
body B3 and a plurality of sprocket teeth T3. The sprocket member
SP4 includes a sprocket body B4 and a plurality of sprocket teeth
T4. The sprocket member SP5 includes a sprocket body B5 and a
plurality of sprocket teeth T5.
[0111] The plurality of sprocket teeth T1 extend radially outwardly
from the sprocket body B1 with respect to the rotational center
axis A1. The plurality of sprocket teeth T2 extend radially
outwardly from the sprocket body B2 with respect to the rotational
center axis A1. The plurality of sprocket teeth T3 extend radially
outwardly from the sprocket body B3 with respect to the rotational
center axis A1. The plurality of sprocket teeth T4 extend radially
outwardly from the sprocket body B4 with respect to the rotational
center axis A1. The plurality of sprocket teeth T5 extend radially
outwardly from the sprocket body B5 with respect to the rotational
center axis A1.
[0112] As seen in FIG. 2, the supporting member 12 is a separate
member from the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5. The
supporting member 12 includes a supporting portion 14 and a hub
engagement portion 16. The supporting portion 14 is configured to
support the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5. The hub
engagement portion 16 is configured to engage with a bicycle hub
assembly HB. Specifically, the hub engagement portion 16 is
configured to be splined to a sprocket support body (not shown) of
the bicycle hub assembly HB.
[0113] The plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are made of a
first material. The supporting member 12 is made of a second
material different from the first material. Since the supporting
member 12 is made of the second material different from the first
material of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5, it is
possible to expand the design possibility of the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly 10.
[0114] The plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are made of the
first material including at least one of an iron alloy, a titanium
alloy and an aluminum alloy. In the illustrated embodiment, the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are made of an iron alloy.
However, the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are made of
the material selected from a group consisting of an iron alloy, a
titanium alloy and an aluminum alloy if needed and/or desired. It
is possible to save weight of the plurality of sprocket members SP1
to SP5 by using at least one of the iron alloy, the titanium alloy
and the aluminum alloy.
[0115] The supporting member 12 is made of the second material
including one of an aluminum alloy and a non-metallic material.
While the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is made of the
aluminum alloy in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is made of the non-metallic material if
needed and/or desired. In a state where the plurality of sprocket
members SP1 to SP5 is made of the non-metallic material, the
non-metallic material includes a fiber-reinforced plastic. Since
the supporting member 12 is made of a light material such as the
aluminum alloy and the non-metallic material, it is possible to
save the weight of the supporting member 12.
[0116] The first material has a first relative density. The second
material has a second relative density smaller than the first
relative density. For example, the first relative density and the
second relative density are defined based on a density of water.
Since the second material has the second relative density smaller
than the first relative density, it is possible to save the weight
of the supporting member 12. This can reduce the weight of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10.
[0117] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sprocket body B1, B2, B3, B4,
or B5 of each of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is
attached to the supporting portion 14 of the supporting member 12
without using a separate metallic fastening member such as a rivet
and a bolt. Specifically, as seen in FIG. 2, the sprocket body B1,
B2, B3, B4, or B5 of each of the plurality of sprocket members SP1
to SP5 is attached to the supporting portion 14 via at least one of
adhesive and diffusion bonding. In the illustrated embodiment, the
sprocket body B1, B2, B3, B4, or B5 of each of the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is attached to the supporting portion
14 via adhesive. However, the sprocket body B1, B2, B3, B4, or B5
of each of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 can be
attached to the supporting portion 14 via diffusion bonding. Since
the sprocket body B1, B2, B3, B4, or B5 of each of the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is attached to the supporting portion
14 via at least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding, it is
possible to maintain the necessary strength of the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly 10 without using the separate metallic fastening
member.
[0118] As seen in FIG. 2, the supporting member 12 further includes
an intermediate portion 18 extending between the supporting portion
14 and the hub engagement portion 16 in a radial direction with
respect to the rotational center axis A1. The intermediate portion
18 can maintain or improve the strength of the supporting member
12.
[0119] As seen in FIG. 3, the supporting portion 14 includes a
plurality of supporting parts 20 spaced apart from each other at
circumferential intervals L1 in the circumferential direction D2
with respect to the rotational center axis A1. In the illustrated
embodiment, the plurality of supporting parts 20 respectively have
maximum circumferential lengths L2 defined in the circumferential
direction D2. Each of the maximum circumferential lengths L2 of the
plurality of supporting parts 20 is shorter than or equal to the
circumferential intervals L1. Accordingly, it is possible to save
the weight of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 with
maintaining the necessary strength of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly 10. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the maximum
circumferential lengths of the plurality of supporting parts 20 is
shorter than the circumferential intervals.
[0120] As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the intermediate portion 18
includes reinforcing parts 22 extending between the supporting
portion 14 and the hub engagement portion 16 in the radial
direction with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The
reinforcing parts 22 are spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2 with respect to the rotational center
axis A1. The reinforcing parts 22 can improve the strength of the
supporting member 12. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
reinforcing parts 22 has a width smaller than each of the maximum
circumferential lengths L2 of the plurality of supporting parts
20.
[0121] As seen in FIGS. 2 and 5, the supporting portion 14 includes
radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 facing radially
outwardly with respect to the rotational center axis A1. As seen in
FIG. 2, the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality of sprocket
members SP1 to SP5 are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34. In the
illustrated embodiment, as seen in FIG. 5, each of the supporting
parts 20 includes the radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32,
and 34. The radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 can
make it easier to radially position the plurality of sprocket
members SP1 to SP5 relative to the supporting portion 14.
[0122] As seen in FIG. 2, the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are respectively attached
to the radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34.
Specifically, the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are respectively attached to the
radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 via at least
one of adhesive and diffusion bonding. In the illustrated
embodiment, the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are respectively attached to the
radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 via adhesive.
However, the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality of sprocket
members SP1 to SP5 can be respectively attached to the
radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34 via diffusion
bonding. Since the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are respectively attached to the
radially-supporting surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34, it is possible
to maintain the necessary strength of the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly 10 without the separate metallic fastening member.
[0123] As seen in FIG. 2, the supporting portion 14 includes a
plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42. The plurality of spacers
36, 38, 40, and 42 are respectively provided between adjacent two
of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 in the axial
direction D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of
spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 28, 30, 32, and 34. The plurality of
spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 allow the plurality of sprocket members
SP1 to SP5 to be easily positioned in the axial direction D1.
[0124] As seen in FIG. 6, the spacers 36 are respectively mounted
to the supporting parts 20 and are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 26. The spacers 36 are respectively
attached to the radially-supporting surfaces 26. The spacers 38 are
respectively mounted to the supporting parts 20 and are
respectively provided on the radially-supporting surfaces 28. The
spacers 38 are respectively attached to the radially-supporting
surfaces 28. The spacers 40 are respectively mounted to the
supporting parts 20 and are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 30. The spacers 40 are respectively
attached to the radially-supporting surfaces 30. The spacers 42 are
respectively mounted to the supporting parts 20 and are
respectively provided on the radially-supporting surfaces 32. The
spacers 42 are respectively attached to the radially-supporting
surfaces 32. While the spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 have
substantially the same shape as each other in the illustrated
embodiment, at least one of the spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 may have
different shapes from another spacer if needed and/or desired.
[0125] As seen in FIG. 2, in the illustrated embodiment, the
plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 are respectively attached
to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5. Specifically, the spacers
36 are attached to the sprocket bodies B1 and B2. The spacers 38
are attached to the sprocket bodies B2 and B3. The spacers 40 are
attached to the sprocket bodies B3 and B4. The spacers 42 are
attached to the sprocket bodies B4 and B5.
[0126] The plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 are respectively
attached to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 via at least one of
adhesive and diffusion bonding. In the illustrated embodiment, the
plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 are respectively attached
to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 via adhesive.
Specifically, the spacers 36 are attached to the sprocket bodies B1
and B2 via adhesive. The spacers 38 are attached to the sprocket
bodies B2 and B3 via adhesive. The spacers 40 are attached to the
sprocket bodies B3 and B4 via adhesive. The spacers 42 are attached
to the sprocket bodies B4 and B5 via adhesive. However, the
plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 can be respectively
attached to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 via diffusion bonding.
Since the plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 are respectively
attached to the adjacent two of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the
plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 via at least one of
adhesive and diffusion bonding, it is possible to maintain the
necessary strength of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 without
the separate metallic fastening member.
[0127] As seen in FIG. 5, the supporting portion 14 includes first
restricting parts 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52. The first restricting
parts 44, 46, 48, and 50 are provided on the radially-supporting
surfaces 26, 28, 30, 32, and 34. Specifically, the first
restricting parts 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52 are respectively provided
to the supporting parts 20. The first restricting parts 44 are
respectively provided on the radially-supporting surfaces 26. The
first restricting parts 46 are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 28. The first restricting parts 48 are
respectively provided on the radially-supporting surfaces 30. The
first restricting parts 50 are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 32. The first restricting parts 52 are
respectively provided on the radially-supporting surfaces 34. In
the illustrated embodiment, each of the first restricting parts 44,
46, 48, 50, and 52 has a concave shape which is radially inwardly
recessed.
[0128] As seen in FIGS. 7 to 11, each of the sprocket bodies B1 to
B5 of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 includes a
second restricting part. The first restricting parts 44, 46, 48,
50, and 52 of the supporting portion 14 are configured to
respectively engage with the second restricting parts of the
sprocket bodies B1 to B5 to restrict the sprocket bodies B1 to B5
from rotating relative to the supporting portion 14 about the
rotational center axis A1.
[0129] Specifically, as seen in FIG. 7, the sprocket body B1
includes second restricting parts 53 spaced apart from each other
in the circumferential direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment,
the second restricting parts 53 have a convex shape radially
inwardly extending. The first restricting parts 44 are configured
to respectively engage with the second restricting parts 53 to
restrict the sprocket body B1 from rotating relative to the
supporting portion 14 about the rotational center axis A1. While
the sprocket body B1 includes the second restricting parts 53 in
the illustrated embodiment, a total number of the second
restricting parts 53 is not limited to the illustrated
embodiment.
[0130] As seen in FIG. 8, the sprocket body B2 includes second
restricting parts 54 spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the
second restricting parts 54 have a convex shape radially inwardly
extending. The first restricting parts 46 are configured to
respectively engage with the second restricting parts 54 to
restrict the sprocket body B2 from rotating relative to the
supporting portion 14 about the rotational center axis A1. While
the sprocket body B2 includes the second restricting parts 54 in
the illustrated embodiment, a total number of the second
restricting parts 54 is not limited to the illustrated
embodiment.
[0131] As seen in FIG. 9, the sprocket body B3 includes second
restricting parts 56 spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the
second restricting parts 56 have a convex shape radially inwardly
extending. The first restricting parts 48 are configured to
respectively engage with the second restricting parts 56 to
restrict the sprocket body B3 from rotating relative to the
supporting portion 14 about the rotational center axis A1. While
the sprocket body B3 includes the second restricting parts 56 in
the illustrated embodiment, a total number of the second
restricting parts 56 is not limited to the illustrated
embodiment.
[0132] As seen in FIG. 10, the sprocket body B4 includes second
restricting parts 58 spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the
second restricting parts 58 have a convex shape radially inwardly
extending. The first restricting parts 50 are configured to
respectively engage with the second restricting parts 58 to
restrict the sprocket body B4 from rotating relative to the
supporting portion 14 about the rotational center axis A1. While
the sprocket body B4 includes the second restricting parts 58 in
the illustrated embodiment, a total number of the second
restricting parts 58 is not limited to the illustrated
embodiment.
[0133] As seen in FIG. 11, the sprocket body B5 includes second
restricting parts 60 spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the
second restricting parts 60 have a convex shape radially inwardly
extending. The first restricting parts 52 are configured to
respectively engage with the second restricting parts 60 to
restrict the sprocket body B5 from rotating relative to the
supporting portion 14 about the rotational center axis A1. While
the sprocket body B5 includes the second restricting parts 60 in
the illustrated embodiment, a total number of the second
restricting parts 60 is not limited to the illustrated
embodiment.
[0134] The first restricting parts 44, 46, 48, 50 and 52 and the
second restricting parts 53, 54, 56, 58 and 60 can improve the
strength of the engagement between the supporting portion 14 and
the sprocket members SP1 to SP5 in the circumferential direction
D2. While the first restricting parts have a concave shape and the
second restricting parts have a convex shape in the illustrated
embodiment, the first restricting parts may have a convex shape and
the second restricting parts may have a concave shape. Further, the
first restricting parts and the second restricting parts may have a
different shape from the illustrated embodiment as long as the
first restricting parts are configured to respectively engage with
the second restricting parts to restrict the sprocket bodies B1 to
B5 from rotating relative to the supporting portion 14 about the
rotational center axis A1.
[0135] As seen in FIG. 12, at least one of the plurality of spacers
36, 38, 40, and 42 includes a third restricting part. In the
illustrated embodiment, each of the spacers 36 includes a third
restricting part 36a. Each of the spacers 38 includes a third
restricting part 38a. Each of the spacers 40 includes a third
restricting part 40a. Each of the spacers 42 includes a third
restricting part 42a. While each of the third restricting parts
36a, 38a, 40a, and 42a has a convex shape radially inwardly
extending in the illustrated embodiment, the shapes of the third
restricting parts 36a, 38a, 40a, and 42a are not limited to the
illustrated embodiment.
[0136] As seen in FIGS. 13 to 16, at least one of the sprocket
bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5
includes a fourth restricting part. In the illustrated embodiment,
as seen in FIG. 13, the sprocket body B2 includes fourth
restricting parts 62. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
fourth restricting parts 62 has a concave shape which is radially
inwardly recessed. Specifically, the sprocket body B2 includes an
annular groove B21. The annular groove B21 includes the fourth
restricting parts 62. The fourth restricting parts 62 are provided
at circumferential positions respectively corresponding to
circumferential positions of the second restricting parts 54 in the
circumferential direction D2. The fourth restricting parts 62 are
respectively provided radially outward of the second restricting
parts 54.
[0137] As seen in FIG. 14, the sprocket body B3 includes fourth
restricting parts 64. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
fourth restricting parts 64 has a concave shape which is radially
inwardly recessed. Specifically, the sprocket body B3 includes an
annular groove B31. The annular groove B31 includes the fourth
restricting parts 64. The fourth restricting parts 64 are provided
at circumferential positions respectively corresponding to
circumferential positions of the second restricting parts 56 in the
circumferential direction D2. The fourth restricting parts 64 are
provided radially outward of the second restricting parts 56.
[0138] As seen in FIG. 15, the sprocket body B4 includes fourth
restricting parts 66. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
fourth restricting parts 66 has a concave shape which is radially
inwardly recessed. Specifically, the sprocket body B4 includes an
annular groove B41. The annular groove B41 includes the fourth
restricting parts 66. The fourth restricting parts 66 are provided
at circumferential positions respectively corresponding to
circumferential positions of the second restricting parts 58 in the
circumferential direction D2. The fourth restricting parts 66 are
provided radially outward of the second restricting parts 58.
[0139] As seen in FIG. 16, the sprocket body B5 includes fourth
restricting parts 68. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
fourth restricting parts 68 has a concave shape which is radially
inwardly recessed. Specifically, the sprocket body B5 includes an
annular groove B51. The annular groove B51 includes the fourth
restricting parts 68. The fourth restricting parts 68 are provided
at circumferential positions respectively corresponding to
circumferential positions of the second restricting parts 60 in the
circumferential direction D2. The fourth restricting parts 68 are
provided radially outward of the second restricting parts 60.
[0140] As seen in FIGS. 17 to 20, the third restricting part of the
at least one of the plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 is
configured to respectively engage with the fourth restricting part
of the at least one of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 to restrict the
at least one of the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 from rotating relative
to the plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 about the rotational
center axis A1.
[0141] As seen in FIG. 17, the third restricting part 36a of the
spacer 36 is configured to respectively engage with the fourth
restricting part 62 of the sprocket body B2 to restrict the
sprocket body B2 from rotating relative to the spacer 36 about the
rotational center axis A1. Accordingly, it is possible to improve
the strength of the engagement between the spacer 36 and the
sprocket body B2 in the circumferential direction D2.
[0142] As seen in FIG. 18, the third restricting part 38a of the
spacer 38 is configured to respectively engage with the fourth
restricting part 64 of the sprocket body B3 to restrict the
sprocket body B3 from rotating relative to the spacer 38 about the
rotational center axis A1. Accordingly, it is possible to improve
the strength of the engagement between the spacer 38 and the
sprocket body B3 in the circumferential direction D2.
[0143] As seen in FIG. 19, the third restricting part 40a of the
spacer 40 is configured to respectively engage with the fourth
restricting part 66 of the sprocket body B4 to restrict the
sprocket body B4 from rotating relative to the spacer 40 about the
rotational center axis A1. Accordingly, it is possible to improve
the strength of the engagement between the spacer 40 and the
sprocket body B4 in the circumferential direction D2.
[0144] As seen in FIG. 20, the third restricting part 42a of the
spacer 42 is configured to respectively engage with the fourth
restricting part 68 of the sprocket body B5 to restrict the
sprocket body B5 from rotating relative to the spacer 42 about the
rotational center axis A1. Accordingly, it is possible to improve
the strength of the engagement between the spacer 42 and the
sprocket body B5 in the circumferential direction D2. Thus, the
third restricting parts 36a, 38a, 40a and 42a and the fourth
restricting parts 62, 64, 66 and 68 can improve the strength of the
engagement between the spacers 36, 38, 40 and 42 and the sprocket
members SP1 to SP5 in the circumferential direction D2. The third
restricting parts and the fourth restricting parts may have a
different shape from the illustrated embodiment as long as the
third restricting parts are configured to respectively engage with
the fourth restricting parts to restrict the sprocket bodies B1 to
B5 from rotating relative to the plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40,
and 42 about the rotational center axis A1.
[0145] As seen in FIG. 21, the supporting portion 14 includes fifth
restricting parts 70, 72, 74, and 76. The fifth restricting parts
70, 72, 74, and 76 are provided on the radially-supporting surfaces
28, 30, 32, and 34. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
fifth restricting parts 70, 72, 74, and 76 has a concave shape
which is radially inwardly recessed. The fifth restricting parts
70, 72, 74, and 76 have substantially the same shape as each other.
The fifth restricting part 70 is continuously provided with the
first restricting part 46 in the axial direction D1 and has
substantially the same shape as the shape of the first restricting
part 46. The fifth restricting part 72 is continuously provided
with the first restricting part 48 in the axial direction D1 and
has substantially the same shape as the shape of the first
restricting part 48. The fifth restricting part 74 is continuously
provided with the first restricting part 50 in the axial direction
D1 and has substantially the same shape as the shape of the first
restricting part 50. The fifth restricting part 76 is continuously
provided with the first restricting part 52 in the axial direction
D1 and has substantially the same shape as the shape of the first
restricting part 52.
[0146] As seen in FIG. 21, each of the plurality of spacers 36, 38,
40, and 42 includes a sixth restricting part. In the illustrated
embodiment, each of the spacers 36 includes a sixth restricting
part 36b. Each of the spacers 38 includes a sixth restricting part
38b. Each of the spacers 40 includes a sixth restricting part 40b.
Each of the spacers 42 includes a sixth restricting part 42b. While
each of the sixth restricting parts 36b, 38b, 40b, and 42b has a
convex shape radially inwardly extending in the illustrated
embodiment, the sixth restricting parts 36b, 38b, 40b, and 42b can
have other shapes if needed and/or desired.
[0147] The fifth restricting parts 70, 72, 74, and 76 are
configured to respectively engage with the sixth restricting parts
36b, 38b, 40b, and 42b of the plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and
42 to restrict the plurality of spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 from
rotating relative to the radially-supporting surfaces 28, 30, 32,
and 34 about the rotational center axis A1. Accordingly, it is
possible to improve the strength of the engagement between the
supporting portion 14 and the spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 in the
circumferential direction D2.
[0148] In the illustrated embodiment, the fifth restricting part 70
is configured to respectively engage with the sixth restricting
part 36b to restrict the spacer 36 from rotating relative to the
radially-supporting surface 28 about the rotational center axis A1.
The fifth restricting part 72 is configured to respectively engage
with the sixth restricting part 38b to restrict the spacer 38 from
rotating relative to the radially-supporting surface 30 about the
rotational center axis A1. The fifth restricting part 74 is
configured to respectively engage with the sixth restricting part
40b to restrict the spacer 40 from rotating relative to the
radially-supporting surface 32 about the rotational center axis A1.
The fifth restricting part 76 is configured to respectively engage
with the sixth restricting part 42b to restrict the spacer 42 from
rotating relative to the radially-supporting surface 34 about the
rotational center axis A1. The fifth restricting parts and the
sixth restricting parts may have a different shape from the
illustrated embodiment as long as the fifth restricting parts are
configured to respectively engage with the sixth restricting parts
to restrict the spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42 from rotating relative
to the radially-supporting surfaces 28, 30, 32, and 34 about the
rotational center axis A1.
[0149] As seen in FIG. 5, the supporting portion 14 includes first
axial end parts 78 provided on the supporting parts 20. The first
axial end parts 78 respectively extend radially outwardly from the
supporting parts 20. The first axial end parts 78 are integrally
provided with the supporting parts 20. Each of the first axial end
parts 78 includes a seventh restricting part 80. Each of the
seventh restricting parts 80 has a convex shape radially inwardly
extending.
[0150] As seen in FIG. 22, the sprocket body B1 of the sprocket
member SP1 includes eighth restricting parts 82. Each of the eighth
restricting parts 82 has a concave shape which is radially inwardly
recessed. In the illustrated embodiment, the sprocket body B1
includes an annular groove B11. The annular groove B11 includes the
eighth restricting parts 82. The eighth restricting parts 82 are
provided at circumferential positions respectively corresponding to
circumferential positions of the second restricting parts 53 in the
circumferential direction D2. The eighth restricting parts 82 are
respectively provided radially outward of the second restricting
parts 53.
[0151] As seen in FIG. 3, the seventh restricting parts 80 are
configured to respectively engage with the eighth restricting parts
82 to restrict the sprocket member SP1 from rotating relative to
the supporting member 12 about the rotational center axis A1. The
sprocket member SP1 is attached to the first axial end part 78 via
at least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding. The seventh
restricting parts and the eighth restricting parts may have a
different shape from the illustrated embodiment as long as the
seventh restricting parts are configured to respectively engage
with the eighth restricting parts to restrict the sprocket member
SP1 from rotating relative to the supporting member 12 about the
rotational center axis A1.
[0152] As seen in FIG. 1, the supporting portion 14 includes second
axial end parts 84 spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2. As seen in FIG. 2, the second axial
end part 84 is attached to the supporting part 20. The hub
engagement portion 16 includes an annular surface 16a. The second
axial end part 84 is mounted on the annular surface 16a. The
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are provided between the first axial
end part 78 and the second axial end part 84 in the axial direction
D1. The second axial end parts 84 are made of a metallic material
including at least one of an iron alloy, a titanium alloy and an
aluminum alloy. The second axial end parts 84 may also be made of a
non-metallic material including a resin material. The non-metallic
material can be a fiber reinforced plastic.
[0153] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10, the sprocket
body of each of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is
attached to the supporting portion 14 of the supporting member 12
without using a separate metallic fastening member. Accordingly, it
is possible to save weight of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10
with maintaining the necessary strength of the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly 10.
Second Embodiment
[0154] A bicycle rear sprocket assembly 210 in accordance with a
second embodiment will be described below referring to FIG. 23. The
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 210 has the same construction as the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 except for the supporting parts
20. Thus, elements having substantially the same function as those
in the first embodiment will be numbered the same here, and will
not be described and/or illustrated again in detail here for the
sake of brevity.
[0155] As seen in FIG. 23, in the bicycle rear sprocket assembly
210, the supporting portion 14 includes a plurality of supporting
parts 220 spaced apart from each other at circumferential intervals
L21 in the circumferential direction D2 with respect to the
rotational center axis A1. The plurality of supporting parts 220
have maximum circumferential lengths L22 defined in the
circumferential direction D2. In the illustrated embodiment, each
of the maximum circumferential lengths L22 of the plurality of
supporting parts 20 is longer than the circumferential intervals
L21. The supporting parts 220 have substantially the same structure
as the structure of the supporting parts 20 in accordance with the
first embodiment.
[0156] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 210, it is possible
to obtain substantially the same advantageous effect as that of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 in accordance with the first
embodiment.
Third Embodiment
[0157] A bicycle rear sprocket assembly 310 in accordance with a
third embodiment will be described below referring to FIGS. 24 to
33. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 310 has the same
construction as the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 except for
the supporting portion and the spacers. Thus, elements having
substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment
will be numbered the same here, and will not be described and/or
illustrated again in detail here for the sake of brevity.
[0158] As seen in FIGS. 24 and 25, in the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly 310, the supporting member 12 includes a supporting
portion 314 and the hub engagement portion 16. The supporting
portion 314 has substantially the same construction as that of the
supporting portion 14 in the first embodiment. As seen in FIG. 26,
however, the supporting portion 314 does not include the first
restricting parts 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52 in the first embodiment.
Specifically, the supporting portion 314 includes a plurality of
supporting parts 320 spaced apart from each other. The supporting
parts 320 have substantially the same constructions as those of the
supporting parts 20 in the first embodiment. Unlike the supporting
parts 20, however, the supporting parts 320 do not include the
first restricting parts 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52 in the first
embodiment.
[0159] As seen in FIG. 27, the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to
SP5 include sprocket bodies B31, B32, B33, B34, and B35. Unlike the
sprocket bodies B2 to B5 in the first embodiment, as seen in FIGS.
28 to 32, the sprocket bodies B31, B32, B33, B34, and B35 does not
include the second restricting parts 53, 54, 56, 58, and 60 in the
first embodiment. Instead, the sprocket bodies B31, B32, B33, B34,
and B35 respectively include plate parts B311, B321, B331, B341,
and B351 having an annular shape.
[0160] As seen in FIG. 27, the sprocket body B1, B32, B33, B34, or
B35 of each of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is
attached to the supporting portion 314 of the supporting member 12
without using a separate metallic fastening member such as a rivet
and a bolt. Specifically, the sprocket body B31, B32, B33, B34, or
B35 of each of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 is
attached to the supporting portion 14 without the first restricting
parts 44, 46, 48, 50, and 52 and the second restricting parts 53,
54, 56, 58, and 60. Specifically, the sprocket bodies B31, B32,
B33, B34, and B35 of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5
are respectively attached to the radially-supporting surfaces 26,
28, 30, 32, and 34 without the first restricting parts 44, 46, 48,
50, and 52 and the second restricting parts 53, 54, 56, 58, and
60.
[0161] As seen in FIG. 27, the supporting portion 314 includes a
plurality of spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342. The plurality of
spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342 are respectively provided between
adjacent two of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 in the
axial direction D1. The spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342 respectively
have substantially the same constructions as those of the spacers
36, 38, 40, and 42 in the first embodiment. As seen in FIG. 33,
however, the spacer 336 does not include the third restricting part
36a. The spacer 338 does not include the third restricting part
38a. The spacer 340 does not include the third restricting part
40a. The spacer 342 does not include the third restricting part
42a. The spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342 have substantially the same
constructions as those of the spacers 36, 38, 40, and 42.
Accordingly, the spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342 will not be
described and/or illustrated in detail here for the sake of
brevity.
[0162] As seen in FIGS. 29 to 32, the sprocket bodies B32 to B35 do
not include the fourth restricting parts 62, 64, 66, and 68 in the
first embodiment. The sprocket bodies B32 to B35 do not include the
annular grooves B11, B21, B31, B41, and B51. In the illustrated
embodiment, as seen in FIG. 27, the plurality of spacers 336, 338,
340, and 342 are respectively attached to the adjacent two of the
sprocket bodies B31, B32, B33, B34, and B35 of the plurality of
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 without the third restricting parts
36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, and 44a and the fourth restricting parts 62,
64, 66, and 68. Specifically, the plate part B321 of the sprocket
body B32 is provided between the spacers 336 and 338. The plate
part B331 of the sprocket body B33 is provided between the spacers
338 and 340. The plate part B341 of the sprocket body B34 is
provided between the spacers 340 and 342.
[0163] As seen in FIG. 26, the supporting parts 320 of the
supporting portion 314 do not include the fifth restricting parts
70, 72, 74, and 76 in the first embodiment. As seen in FIG. 33,
each of the spacers 336 does not include the sixth restricting part
36b. Each of the spacers 338 does not include the sixth restricting
part 38b. Each of the spacers 340 does not include the sixth
restricting part 40b. Each of the spacers 342 does not include the
sixth restricting part 42b.
[0164] As seen in FIG. 27, the spacers 336 are respectively
attached to the radially-supporting surfaces 26 without the fifth
restricting parts 70 and the sixth restricting parts 36b. The
spacers 338 are respectively attached to the radially-supporting
surfaces 28 without the fifth restricting parts 72 and the sixth
restricting parts 38b. The spacers 340 are respectively attached to
the radially-supporting surfaces 30 without the fifth restricting
parts 74 and the sixth restricting parts 40b. The spacers 342 are
respectively attached to the radially-supporting surfaces 32
without the fifth restricting parts 76 and the sixth restricting
parts 42b.
[0165] As seen in FIG. 26, the supporting portion 314 includes
first axial end parts 378 provided on the supporting parts 320. The
first axial end parts 378 respectively extend radially outwardly
from the supporting parts 320. The first axial end parts 378 have
substantially the same constructions as those of the first axial
end parts 78 in the first embodiment. However, each of the first
axial end parts 378 does not include the seventh restricting part
80.
[0166] As seen in FIGS. 24 and 27, the supporting portion 314
includes second axial end parts 384 spaced apart from each other in
the circumferential direction D2. As seen in FIG. 27, the second
axial end part 384 is attached to the supporting part 320. The
sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are provided between the first axial
end part 378 and the second axial end part 384 in the axial
direction D1.
[0167] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 310, it is possible
to obtain substantially the same advantageous effect as that of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 in accordance with the first
embodiment.
Fourth Embodiment
[0168] A bicycle rear sprocket assembly 410 in accordance with a
third embodiment will be described below referring to FIGS. 34 to
38. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 410 has the same
construction as the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 310 except for
the supporting portion and the spacers. Thus, elements having
substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment
will be numbered the same here, and will not be described and/or
illustrated again in detail here for the sake of brevity.
[0169] As seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, in the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly 410, the supporting member 12 includes a supporting
portion 414 and the hub engagement portion 16. The supporting
portion 414 has substantially the same construction as that of the
supporting portion 314 in the third embodiment. As seen in FIG. 35,
however, the supporting portion 414 includes a supporting part 420
having an annular shape.
[0170] As seen in FIG. 36, the supporting portion 414 includes
radially-supporting surfaces 426, 428, 430, 432, and 434 facing
radially outwardly with respect to the rotational center axis A1.
As seen in FIG. 37, the sprocket bodies B1 to B5 of the plurality
of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 426, 428, 430, 432, and 434. The
radially-supporting surfaces 426, 428, 430, 432, and 434 have
substantially the same constructions as those of the
radially-supporting surfaces 326, 328, 330, 332, and 334 in the
third embodiment. As seen in FIG. 36, however, each of the
radially-supporting surfaces 426, 428, 430, 432, and 434 has an
annular shape.
[0171] As seen in FIG. 37, the supporting portion 414 includes a
plurality of spacers 436, 438, 440, and 442. The plurality of
spacers 436, 438, 440, and 442 are respectively provided between
adjacent two of the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 in the
axial direction D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of
spacers 436, 438, 440, and 442 are respectively provided on the
radially-supporting surfaces 428, 430, 432, and 434. The spacers
436, 438, 440, and 442 have substantially the same constructions as
those of the spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342 except for the annular
shape. As seen in FIG. 38, however, each of the spacers 436, 438,
440, and 442 has an annular shape.
[0172] As seen in FIG. 36, the supporting portion 414 includes a
first axial end part 478 provided on the supporting parts 420. The
first axial end part 478 extends radially outwardly from the
supporting part 420. The first axial end part 478 has substantially
the same construction as that of the first axial end part 378 in
the third embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, however, the
first axial end part 478 has an annular shape.
[0173] As seen in FIG. 34, the supporting portion 414 includes a
second axial end part 484 spaced apart from each other in the
circumferential direction D2. The second axial end part 484 has
substantially the same construction as those of the second axial
end parts 384 in the third embodiment. However, the second axial
end part 484 has an annular shape. As seen in FIG. 37, the sprocket
members SP1 to SP5 are provided between the first axial end part
478 and the second axial end part 484 in the axial direction
D1.
[0174] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 410, it is possible
to obtain substantially the same advantageous effect as that of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 in accordance with the first
embodiment.
Fifth Embodiment
[0175] A bicycle rear sprocket assembly 510 in accordance with a
fifth embodiment will be described below referring to FIGS. 39 to
41. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 510 has the same
construction as the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 410 except for
the supporting portion. Thus, elements having substantially the
same function as those in the above embodiments will be numbered
the same here, and will not be described and/or illustrated again
in detail here for the sake of brevity.
[0176] As seen in FIGS. 39 and 40, in the bicycle rear sprocket
assembly 510, the supporting member 12 includes a supporting
portion 514 and a hub engagement portion 516. The supporting
portion 514 has substantially the same construction as that of the
supporting portion 414 in the fourth embodiment. The hub engagement
portion 516 has substantially the same construction as that of the
hub engagement portion 16 in the first embodiment. However, the
supporting member 12 includes supporting plates 586, 588, 590, and
592 arranged in the axial direction D1. The supporting plates 586,
588, 590, and 592 constitute the supporting portion 514 and the hub
engagement portion 516.
[0177] As seen in FIG. 41, the spacers 336, 338, 340, and 342 in
the third embodiment are omitted from the supporting portion 514.
However, the supporting plates 586, 588, 590, and 592 have
substantially the same functions as the functions of the spacers
336, 338, 340, and 342. Specifically, the plate part B321 of the
sprocket body B32 is provided between the supporting plates 586 and
588 in the axial direction D1. The plate part B331 of the sprocket
body B33 is provided between the supporting plates 588 and 590 in
the axial direction D1. The plate part B341 of the sprocket body
B34 is provided between the supporting plates 590 and 592 in the
axial direction D1. The plate part B351 of the sprocket body B35 is
provided between the supporting plate 592 and the second axial end
part 484. The supporting portion 514 include a first axial end part
578 having an annular shape. The plate part B311 of the sprocket
body B31 is provided between the first axial end part 578 and the
supporting plate 586.
[0178] The plate part B321 of the sprocket body B32 is attached to
the supporting plates 586 and 588 via at least one of adhesive and
diffusion bonding. The plate part B331 of the sprocket body B33 is
attached to the supporting plates 588 and 590 via at least one of
adhesive and diffusion bonding. The plate part B341 of the sprocket
body B34 is attached to the supporting plates 590 and 592 via at
least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding. The plate part B351 of
the sprocket body B35 is attached to the supporting plate 592 and
the second axial end part 484 via at least one of adhesive and
diffusion bonding. The plate part B311 of the sprocket body B31 is
attached to the first axial end part 578 and the supporting plate
586 via at least one of adhesive and diffusion bonding.
[0179] As seen in FIG. 41, the supporting plates 586, 588, 590, and
592 are attached to each other via at least one of adhesive and
diffusion bonding. The first axial end part 578 and the second
axial end part 484 are made of a metallic material. The first axial
end part 578 is attached to the supporting plate 586 via at least
one of adhesive and diffusion bonding. The second axial end part
384 is attached to the supporting plate 592 via at least one of
adhesive and diffusion bonding.
[0180] As seen in FIG. 40, the supporting member 12 further
includes an intermediate portion 518 extending between the
supporting portion 514 and the hub engagement portion 516 in the
radial direction with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The
intermediate portion 518 has substantially the same construction as
that of the intermediate portion 18 in the first embodiment. In the
illustrated embodiment, however, the intermediate portion 518
includes reinforcing parts 522 extending between the supporting
portion 514 and the hub engagement portion 516 in the radial
direction with respect to the rotational center axis A1. The
reinforcing parts 522 have substantially the same constructions as
that of the reinforcing parts 22 in the first embodiment. In the
illustrated embodiment, the supporting plates 586, 588, 590, and
592 constitute the reinforcing parts 522 of the intermediate
portion 518.
[0181] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 510, it is possible
to obtain substantially the same advantageous effect as that of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 in accordance with the first
embodiment.
Sixth Embodiment
[0182] A bicycle rear sprocket assembly 610 in accordance with a
fifth embodiment will be described below referring to FIGS. 42 and
43. The bicycle rear sprocket assembly 610 has the same
construction as the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 except for
the supporting member. Thus, elements having substantially the same
function as those in the above embodiments will be numbered the
same here, and will not be described and/or illustrated again in
detail here for the sake of brevity.
[0183] As seen in FIG. 42, the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 610
comprises the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5 and a
supporting member 612. The supporting member 612 has a small
diameter end 612a and a large diameter end 612b opposite to the
small diameter end 612a in the axial direction D1. The small
diameter end 612a has an outer diameter smaller than an outer
diameter of the large diameter end 612b. The supporting member 612
has substantially the same construction as that of the supporting
member 12 in the first embodiment. However, the supporting member
612 includes the supporting portion 14 and a hub supported portion
616. The supporting portion 14 is provided radially outward of the
hub supported portion 616 with respect to the rotational center
axis A1 and is configured to support the plurality of sprocket
members SP1 to SP5.
[0184] The hub supported portion 616 is configured to be supported
on a bicycle hub assembly HB1. Unlike the hub engagement portion 16
in the first embodiment, the hub supported portion 616 is not
splined to the bicycle hub assembly HB1. Specifically, the hub
supported portion 616 includes a bearing supported section 617 and
a torque transmission section 619. The bearing supported section
617 is closer to the small diameter end 612a than the large
diameter end 612b in the axial direction D1. The bearing supported
section 617 is configured to be supported by a bearing unit BU1. In
the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle hub assembly HB1 includes
the bearing unit BU1. The bearing unit BU1 includes rolling
elements BU11, an outer race BU12 and an inner race BU13. Instead
of the outer race BU12, the bearing supported section 617 may serve
as an outer race of the bearing unit BU1. In such a case, the
bearing supported section 617 includes a sliding surface 617a
slidable with the rolling elements BU11 as seen in FIG. 43.
[0185] The torque transmission section 619 is closer to the large
diameter end 612b than the small diameter end 612a in the axial
direction D1. The torque transmission section 619 is configured to
transmit a torque from the plurality of sprocket members SP1 to SP5
to the bicycle hub assembly HB1.
[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle hub assembly HB1
includes a hub axle HB11, a hub shell HB12, and a ratchet structure
HB13. The bearing unit BU1 is provided between the hub axle HB11
and the hub supported portion 616. The outer race BU12 of the
bearing unit BU1 is attached to the bearing support section 617.
The inner race BU13 of the bearing unit BU1 is attached to the hub
axle HB11. The hub shell HB12 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle
HB11 via a hub bearing unit BU3 to rotate about the rotational
center axis A1. The ratchet structure HB13 is configured to prevent
the supporting member 612 from rotating relative to the hub shell
HB12 in the driving rotational direction D21 so that a pedaling
force is transmitted from the supporting member 612 to the hub
shell HB12 during pedaling. The ratchet structure HB13 is
configured to allow the hub shell HB12 to rotate relative to the
supporting member 612 in the driving rotational direction D21 so
that a rotational force is not transmitted from the hub shell 14 to
the supporting member 612 during coasting (also called
freewheeling). Since the bicycle hub assembly HB1 includes
structures known in the bicycle field, they will not be described
and/or illustrated in detail here for the sake of brevity.
[0187] The hub supported portion 616 includes an additional bearing
supported section 621 configured to be supported by an additional
bearing unit BU2. The additional bearing supported section 621
makes the hub supported portion 616 more stable relative to the
rotational center axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the
bicycle hub assembly HB1 includes the additional bearing unit BU2.
The additional bearing unit BU2 includes rolling elements BU21, an
inner race BU22, and an outer race BU23. The outer race BU23 is
attached to the additional bearing supported section 621. The
additional bearing unit BU2 is provided between the hub axle HB11
and the additional bearing supported section 621. The inner race
BU22 is attached to the hub axle HB11.
[0188] The additional bearing supported section 621 is positioned
between the small diameter end 612a and the large diameter end
612b. Accordingly, it is possible to make a middle section of the
hub supported portion 616 more stable relative to the rotational
center axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the additional
bearing supported section 621 is closer to the large diameter end
612b than the small diameter end 612a in the axial direction D1.
The additional bearing supported section 621 makes the large
diameter end 612b more stable relative to the rotational center
axis A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the additional bearing
supported section 621 is provided radially inward of the torque
transmission section 619.
[0189] The supporting member 612 further includes an intermediate
portion 618 extending between the supporting portion 14 and the hub
supported portion 616 in the radial direction with respect to the
rotational center axis A1. The intermediate portion 618 extends
between the small diameter end 612a and the large diameter end 612b
in the axial direction D1. Accordingly, it is possible to improve
the strength of the supporting member 612 between the small
diameter end 612a and the large diameter end 612b.
[0190] As seen in FIGS. 42 and 43, the intermediate portion 618 has
substantially the same construction as that of the intermediate
portion 18 in the first embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment,
however, the intermediate portion 618 includes an opening.
Specifically, the intermediate portion 618 includes reinforcing
parts 622. The reinforcing parts 622 have substantially the same
construction as that of the reinforcing parts 22 in the first
embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, however, at least one of
the reinforcing parts 622 includes the opening. Specifically, each
of the reinforcing parts 622 includes the opening 623. The opening
623 reduces the weight of the intermediate portion 618.
Accordingly, it is possible to save the weight of the bicycle rear
sprocket assembly 10. The opening 623 may have a different shape
and different size from the illustrated embodiment. For example,
the shape of the opening 623 may be oval, triangle, rectangle and
so on, and the size of the opening 623 may be larger in the axial
and/or radial direction than the illustrated embodiment.
[0191] As seen in FIG. 44, the reinforcing parts 622 extends
between the supporting portion 14 and the hub engagement portion
616 in the radial direction with respect to the rotational center
axis A1. The reinforcing parts 622 are spaced apart from each other
in the circumferential direction D2 with respect to the rotational
center axis A1. Accordingly, reinforcing parts 622 can improve the
strength of the supporting member 612.
[0192] With the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 610, it is possible
to obtain substantially the same advantageous effect as that of the
bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10 in accordance with the first
embodiment.
[0193] Furthermore, with the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 610,
the hub supported portion 616 includes the bearing supported
section 617 and the torque transmission section 619. The bearing
supported section 617 is closer to the small diameter end 612a than
the large diameter end 612b in the axial direction D1. The torque
transmission section 619 is closer to the large diameter end 612b
than the small diameter end 612a in the axial direction D1.
Accordingly, it is possible to simplify the structure of the
supporting member 612 of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 610 and
to save the weight of the bicycle rear sprocket assembly 10.
[0194] It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle field
from the present disclosure that the constructions of the above
embodiments can be at least partially combined with each other. For
example, the construction of the sixth embodiment can be applied to
each of the constructions of the second to fifth embodiments if
needed and/or desired.
[0195] The term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein,
are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of
the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or
steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features,
elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. This concept
also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, the terms
"have", "include" and their derivatives.
[0196] The terms "member", "section", "portion", "part", "element",
"body" and "structure" when used in the singular can have the dual
meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.
[0197] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" recited in
the present application are merely identifiers, but do not have any
other meanings, for example, a particular order and the like.
Moreover, for example, the term "first element" itself does not
imply an existence of "second element", and the term "second
element" itself does not imply an existence of "first element."
[0198] The term "pair of", as used herein, can encompass the
configuration in which the pair of elements have different shapes
or structures from each other in addition to the configuration in
which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures as
each other.
[0199] Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about"
and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of
deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not
significantly changed.
[0200] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the
present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It
is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended
claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as
specifically described herein.
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