Cranks And Pedals Patents (Class 74/594.1)
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Patent number: 8707823Abstract: A pedal crank for a bicycle comprising structural fibers incorporated in a matrix of polymeric material which has two seats in which two metal inserts are received. The seats have a mouth which opens onto the outer surface of the pedal crank and have a geometry such as to allow the insertion of the inserts from outside of the pedal crank.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2009Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Campagnolo S.R.L.Inventor: Giuseppe Dal Prá
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Patent number: 8707825Abstract: The teachings provided herein relate to an articulable crankset for converting a pedal-powered vehicle into a push-powered vehicle having the articulable crankset in a retracted position to provide at least less of an obstruction to a user's legs during use of the push-powered vehicle than a non-retractable crankset. The vehicle can be a bicycle, and the articulable crankset can be a component of a production bicycle or a component of a conversion kit that will convert a bicycle from a pedal-powered bicycle to a convertible bicycle that can also function as a push-powered bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Kroozn, LLCInventors: Brian Kinting Shiu, Vanessa Chen-Hwa Shiu
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Publication number: 20140109722Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket assembly that reduces the accumulation of dirt and/or corrosive substances inside the shaft extending between the crank arms of the assembly. The bottom bracket assembly includes a shaft having a through-cavity that extends along its longitudinal direction; a crank arm is associated with each end portion of the shaft, and the through-cavity extends unobstructed through the crank arms and the shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2013Publication date: April 24, 2014Applicant: Campagnolo S.r.I.Inventors: Giuseppe Dal Prà, Nicola Sgreva
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Patent number: 8689663Abstract: An anti-theft bicycle pedal is disclosed. The mounting end of the pedal is shaped with polygonal faces and/or splines to match an opening on the crank so that when the mounting end of the pedal axle is inserted into the matching opening and locked into place, the pedal cannot be removed without an unlocking agent. With an unlocking agent, the pedal is easily removed without tools. The pedal can be reversibly mounted on the crank so that the bicycle cannot be pedaled away, or so that the pedal can be stowed during transport or storage. The pedal cannot rotate in the crank as a result of polygonal faces and/or splines on the mounting end that resist rotation. A physical stop can be used to control the symmetry of insertion into the opening which facilitates reversible mounting.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2010Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventor: Geoffrey Paul Weber
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Patent number: 8689662Abstract: A bottom bracket assembly (1) of a bicycle is disclosed. The bottom bracket assembly includes a shaft (2) extending along a predetermined longitudinal direction and a pair of bearings (31, 41) adapted to rotatably support the shaft (2) with respect to a housing box (10) provided in a bicycle frame, the bearings (31, 41) being mounted on the shaft (2) at opposite end portions (3, 4) of the shaft (2). The opposite end portions (3, 4) of the shaft (2) have an outer diameter (D2) between 28 mm and 37 mm, bounds being included, and the distance (D1) between the median planes (Y1, Y2) of the bearings (31, 41) along the longitudinal direction is between 80 mm and 100 mm, bounds being included.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2008Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Campagnolo S.R.L.Inventors: Paolo Pasqua, Vittorio Babini
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Patent number: 8677859Abstract: A bicycle crank axle assembly has first and second crank arms that are attached to opposite ends of a crank axle. The ends of the crank axle are non-rotatably disposed in axle mounting openings of the first and second crank arms. A first end of the crank axle has at least one axially extending first spline that protrudes radially outward from an outer peripheral surface of its middle body portion. The at least one axially extending first spline non-rotatably couples the crank axle to the first crank arm and prevents outward axial movement of the first crank arm away from the second crank arm. The second end portion of the crank axle has at least one recess that extend radially inward with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the middle body portion to form at least one axially extending second spline.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2011Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Masahiro Yamanaka, Yusuke Nishimoto, Shingo Shiraishi, Akinobu Sugimoto
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Patent number: 8671799Abstract: A quick release device for a pedal includes a spindle, a connecting unit connected to the spindle, and a quick release mechanism connected to the connecting unit. The spindle has a protrusion extending from one end thereof and an annular groove defined in an outer peripheral thereof. The connecting unit has a receiving hole defined therein, a guiding hole defined in a lateral thereof and communicated with the receiving hole, and a retaining hole defined therein and communicated with the receiving hole. The quick release mechanism includes a rod partially received in the guiding hole and a spring biased against the rod toward the receiving hole. In assembly the protrusion engages with the retaining hole and the rod engages with the annular groove.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventor: Chung-l Chen
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Publication number: 20140069229Abstract: A bike extendable crank includes an extendable crank unit. The extendable crank unit includes an immovable crank and a movable crank. The immovable crank has a slide trough therein, a limit groove at one side thereof and a main axle hole above the limit groove. One end of the movable crank has a first pivot hole for connection of a pedal and another end of the movable crank has a second pivot hole for connection a guide axle. The movable crank is slidably received in the slide trough of the immovable crank. The guide axle inserting through the second pivot hole of the movable crank slides in the limit groove of the immovable crank.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2012Publication date: March 13, 2014Inventor: Shun-Jie CHANG
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Publication number: 20140047948Abstract: A crankset comprises an axle assembly, a drive-side crankarm, and a non-drive crankarm. The drive-side crankarm is attached at a first end portion thereof to a first end portion of the axle assembly. The non-drive crankarm is attached at a first end portion thereof to a second end portion of the axle assembly. Each one of the crankarms has a plurality of longitudinal holes therein extending between the first and second end portions thereof. The longitudinal holes each extend through an end face of a respective one of the crankarms at the first end portion thereof. The drive-side crankarm is bent inwardly toward the second end portion of the axle assembly after the longitudinal holes are formed therein. Only one of the longitudinal holes of the drive-side crankarm intersects an axle fastener engagement hole that extends through the first end portion of the drive-side crankarm.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventor: Craig Hawley Edwards
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Publication number: 20140047947Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is provided with a crank arm that includes a first outer shell, a second outer shell, and a pedal attachment structure. The first outer shell is a one-piece, pressed sheet metal member with the projecting part being a bent portion that defines the first pedal axle opening. The first outer shell has a projecting part projecting from the first outer shell in an axial direction. The first and second outer shells are adhesively attached together to form an interior cavity. The pedal attachment structure includes an abutment face with a recess formed in the abutment face such that the abutment face contacts the first outer shell adjacent the first pedal axle opening and the projecting part of the first outer shell is disposed in the recess of the pedal attachment structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Tetsu NONOSHITA, Masahiro YAMANAKA
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Publication number: 20140047946Abstract: A right crank arm assembly for a bicycle, comprises a right crank arm, a first annular element directly coupled with said crank arm at at least one first coupling portion of said first annular element and at least one second annular element coupled with said crank arm and of a smaller size than said first annular element. The first annular element comprises a toothing that extends radially towards the outside along a primitive circumference having a predetermined diameter. Said at least one first coupling portion is entirely contained in a first area extending radially towards the outside starting from an ideal circumference having a diameter at least equal to ? of said predetermined diameter. Such an annular element constitutes the front sprocket of the crank arm assembly of the present invention and consists of a simple toothed band. Such a front sprocket is particularly light in weight.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2013Publication date: February 20, 2014Applicant: CAMPAGNOLO, S.R.L.Inventors: Maurizio VALLE, Paolo PASQUA
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Patent number: 8616084Abstract: A bicycle crank arm assembly is provided having at least one axle portion, a crank arm mounted on the at least one axle portion, the crank arm having a coupling seat and the axle portion a coupling portion coupled to the coupling seat, the coupling seat and the coupling portion being shaped so as to make a shape coupling to ensure that the crank arm can transmit a torque to the axle portion. Between the crank arm and the axle portion adhesive material is applied. The shape coupling ensures that the crank arm and the axle portion are integral in rotation, whereas the gluing ensures the sealing of the coupling area against corrosion phenomena. The gluing also ensures a predetermined minimum force limit necessary to disassemble the crank arm assembly. The crank arm assembly has a low overall weight, a simple assembly process, and a suitable resistance to disassembling.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2007Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.Inventor: Mario Meggiolan
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Patent number: 8590423Abstract: A crankset comprises an axle assembly, a removably attached crankarm, and a non-removably attached crankarm. The removably attached crankarm is attached at a first end portion thereof to a first end portion of the axle assembly. The non-removably attached crankarm is attached at a first end portion thereof to a second end portion of the axle assembly. Each one of the crankarms has a plurality of longitudinal holes therein extending between the first and second end portions thereof. The longitudinal holes each extend through an end face of a respective one of the crankarms at the first end portion thereof. The removably attached crankarm is bent inwardly toward the second end portion of the axle assembly after the longitudinal holes are formed therein. Only one of the longitudinal holes of the removably attached crankarm intersects an axle fastener engagement hole that extends through the first end portion of the removably attached crankarm.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2010Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: Craig Edwards
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Patent number: 8590421Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket assembly has a shaft having a longitudinal axis X-X, a pair of bearings configured to support the shaft in rotation with respect to a housing box of the bottom bracket assembly provided in a bicycle frame, and a pair of adapter devices configured to be cantilevered with opposite free ends of the box to support the bearings outside of said box. At least one of the adapter devices has at least one first stop element and at least one second stop element arranged on opposite sides with respect to at least one bearing, wherein the first and second stop elements cooperate with the at least one bearing to keep the at least one bearing inside a space having a predetermined axial extension. The bearing's movement is thus limited in the axial direction, providing a fixed reference to determine the chain line of the bottom bracket assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2007Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.Inventors: Mario Meggiolan, Paolo Pasqua
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Patent number: 8590422Abstract: A crank has a connection portion with a connection recess defined therein which has an engaging recess, a reception recess and a reception groove. The engaging recess is located at a closed end of the connection recess and the reception recess is located at an opened end of the connection recess. The reception groove is located between the engaging recess and the reception recess. An axle has an engaging portion at an end thereof and the engaging portion is engaged with the engaging recess. A guide surface is defined in an outer periphery of the cylindrical body. A ring-shaped washer is mounted to the cylindrical body and securely fills into the reception groove and the gap between the axle and the reception recess.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2010Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: Yu Sheng Kao
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Patent number: 8578816Abstract: A connecting and adjusting structure for a crank assembly used in a bicycle contains a first tube of a first connector including a first hollow portion, the first connector including a first bearing seat to receive a first ball bearing, the first bearing seat includes a first engaging tab, a first adjusting rib, and the first tube, a second connector including a second bearing seat to receive a second ball bearing, a dustproof cover, and a retaining ring, the second bearing seat including a second engaging tab, a second adjusting rib, and a second tube, a second crank including a central shank with plural T-shaped teeth and second internal screws, a first crank including a hollow post with a Tee groove fixed to engage with the T-shaped teeth, and a screw is inserted through the hollow post to be screwed with the second internal screws.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Inventor: Chang Hui Lin
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Publication number: 20130283969Abstract: A bicycle crank arm is provided with a crank body, a reference member and a sensor. The crank body has a crank axle mounting portion and a pedal mounting portion. The reference member is attached to the crank body. The sensor is attached to at least one of the crank body and the reference member. The sensor is arranged to output a signal based on a distance between the crank body and the reference member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Etsuyoshi WATARAI
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Publication number: 20130283970Abstract: A bicycle drive assembly includes a spindle installed in a bicycle, a first crank arm and a second crank arm respectively mounted at two distal ends of the spindle, the first crank arm being rotatable on the axis of the spindle in a first direction of rotation to drive the bicycle forwards, the first crank arm being fastened to the spindle by a screw joint in a second direction of rotation that is the same direction of the first direction of rotation to ensure tight connection between the first crank arm and the spindle when the user is riding the bicycle to pedal the first crank arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2012Publication date: October 31, 2013Applicant: Tien Hsin Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Wen-Feng TSAI
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Patent number: 8561500Abstract: A crankset for a bicycle that includes a first crank, a second crank, a spindle, a bearing, and a preload mechanism. Each of the first crank and the second crank has an end adapted to engage a pedal. The spindle defines an axis and includes a first end that is coupled to the first crank and a second end that is coupled to the second crank. The bearing positioned around the spindle between the first crank and the second crank to permit rotation of the spindle. The preload mechanism is coupled to the spindle between the bearing and the first crank. The preload mechanism includes a washer that extends circumferentially around the spindle and a cam member that is engageable with the washer to move the washer along the axis to preload the bearing.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2011Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Christopher P. D'Aluisio
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Patent number: 8549958Abstract: This automatic bicycle pedal comprises a pedal body (2) equipped at a first end (5) with first attachment means (7) and at a second end (6) with second attachment means (10), an elastically deformable lever (8) bearing the second attachment means and capable of being deformed between a first position of holding a cleat fixed to the underside of a shoe between the first and second attachment means, and a deformed second position allowing the cleat to be attached and detached in respect of attachment and detachment movements. The deformable lever comprises at least one first deformable zone (12) that can be deformed during attachment and detachment movements and at least one second deformable zone (13) that can be deformed during one of the said attachment and detachment movements, the said first and second zones having different stiffnesses.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2011Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Look Cycle InternationalInventors: Julien Bouchez, Fabien Delangue
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Publication number: 20130247712Abstract: It is a kind of crank mechanism that consists of a crank and a link. There are two key parts: one is a crank, it is to do a revolving motion; another is a link, it is to draw the crank. The purpose is to change the route of motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2012Publication date: September 26, 2013Inventor: CHUN CHIEH CHEN
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Publication number: 20130233091Abstract: A bicycle crank arm apparatus comprises a crank arm having a crank axle mounting portion and a pedal mounting portion. A circuit-mounting structure is disposed between the crank axle mounting portion and the pedal mounting portion, wherein the circuit-mounting structure is configured to detachably mount a measurement board. When a measurement board is mounted to the circuit-mounting structure, the resulting combination forms a bicycle input force processing apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: Toshio Tetsuka
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Publication number: 20130233092Abstract: A bicycle crank arm comprises a crank body, a sensor support member and a power sensing device. The crank body includes a crank axle mounting portion and a pedal mounting portion. The sensor support member is disposed in a cavity of the crank body and attached to the crank body. The power sensing device is supported on the sensor support member.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 25, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicant: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Toshio Tetsuka, Etsuyoshi Watarai
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Publication number: 20130233126Abstract: A bicycle crank arm comprises a first crank arm member having a first sensor-mounting surface and a second crank arm member having a second sensor-mounting surface. A first sensor is mounted to the first sensor-mounting surface, and a second sensor mounted to the second sensor-mounting surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: Toshio Tetsuka
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Patent number: 8516922Abstract: A bicycle pedal assembly having a pedal body rotatably coupled to a pedal shaft. A bore receiving the pedal shaft passes through the pedal body. A semi-cylindrical shoulder extends outwardly from an exterior surface of the shaft. A bushing is positioned within the bore to rotatably support the pedal shaft. An inner surface of the shoulder rotatably engages the external end of the bushing, so that the second end of the shaft is movably connected to the pedal body without assistance of any fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Animal Bikes, Inc.Inventors: Sean Curran, Frank Lam
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Publication number: 20130192416Abstract: A crank assembly for a bicycle is provided. The crank assembly includes an integrally formed unitary body. The body includes an arm first portion and an arm second portion extending on an angle from one end of the arm first portion. An enclosed cavity is disposed between the arm first portion and the arm second portion. The cavity has a first width at a first end in the arm first portion and a second width at an end of the arm second portion, the cavity and the arm first portion defining a first wall thickness in a first direction, the cavity and the arm second portion defining a second wall thickness in a second direction. The first wall thickness and the second wall thickness are substantially equal. A boss portion extends from an end of the arm second portion opposite the first arm portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2013Publication date: August 1, 2013Applicant: CYCLING SPORTS GROUP, INC.Inventor: Cycling Sports Group, Inc.
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Patent number: 8490514Abstract: A pedal-crank assembly for bicycles includes a pedal configured to be used as a safety lock for the bicycle and a member for fast and easy removal of the pedal from the crank. The pedal-crank further includes a frame rotatably mounted on a pin and a shaft rotatably mounted inside the pin. The pedal has spherical bodies housed inside housing of the shaft. The pin has holes which receive the corresponding spherical bodies. A key lock is mounted to the pedal and configured to be actuated to move the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2010Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Inventor: Raniero Giudici
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Patent number: 8485063Abstract: A device for disassembling and assembling bicycle pedals comprises a bicycle crank (1), detachable pedals (17) connected with the crank (1), a fixing seat (11) arranged at an end of the crank (1), a control device arranged at the fixing seat (11) and a connection assembly between a pedal (17) and the control device. The control device also comprises an unlocking mechanism, a pushing mechanism and a rotating mechanism, wherein the pushing mechanism and the rotating mechanism are controlled by a gear mechanism. The device can conveniently and quickly disassembling and assembling bicycle pedals by one step without touching the pedals with hands.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventor: Dongjun Wang
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Patent number: 8464609Abstract: An articulable crankset for converting a pedal-powered vehicle into a push-powered vehicle is provided. The articulable crankset can be in a retracted position to provide at least less of an obstruction to a user's legs during use of the push-powered vehicle than a non-retractable crankset. The vehicle can be a bicycle, and the articulable crankset can be a component of a production bicycle or a component of a conversion kit that will convert a bicycle from a pedal-powered bicycle to a convertible bicycle that can also function as a push-powered bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2009Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Kroozn, LLCInventors: Brian Kinting Shiu, Vanessa Chen-Hwa Shiu
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Patent number: 8453538Abstract: A cartridge bottom bracket is for a bicycle having a tubular shell with a bore. The bottom bracket includes a spindle having opposing ends and a sealed cartridge disposed within the shell bore and about a central portion of the spindle so as to define opposing free end portions of the spindle. The cartridge includes a pipe having opposing ends, two rolling contact bearings disposed within the pipe adjacent to a separate one of the pipe ends and rotatably coupling the spindle with the pipe, and a tubular spacer disposed about the spindle and extending between the two bearings so as to establish a spacing distance between the bearings. Further, two shaped caps are each mounted on a separate one of the free end portions of the spindle and are disposed axially against a separate one of the bearings to enclose the free end portion of the spindle.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2011Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Aktiebolaget SKFInventors: Roberto Mola, Gianpiero Scaltriti, Riccardo Restivo, Alessandro Sansone
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Publication number: 20130133477Abstract: A bicycle crank axle assembly has first and second crank arms that are attached to opposite ends of a crank axle. The ends of the crank axle are non-rotatably disposed in axle mounting openings of the first and second crank arms. A first end of the crank axle has at least one axially extending first spline that protrudes radially outward from an outer peripheral surface of its middle body portion. The at least one axially extending first spline non-rotatably couples the crank axle to the first crank arm and prevents outward axial movement of the first crank arm away from the second crank arm. The second end portion of the crank axle has at least one recess that extend radially inward with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the middle body portion to form at least one axially extending second spline.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2011Publication date: May 30, 2013Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventors: Masahiro YAMANAKA, Yusuke NISHIMOTO, Shingo SHIRAISHI, Akinobu SUGIMOTO
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Patent number: 8438947Abstract: A bicycle crank arm has a body member and a cover member that at least partially overlies a peripheral surface of the body member. The body member includes a crank axle attachment portion that has a crank axle receiving opening. A slit extends from the peripheral surface of the body member to the crank axle receiving opening. A fastener bore extends transversely through the slit for adjusting the crank axle receiving opening in size. The peripheral surface of the body member has abutments located on opposite sides of the slit. The abutments are arranged relative to the slit such that the abutments move closer together as the crank axle attachment portion is squeezed to decrease the crank axle receiving opening in size. The cover member contacts the abutments and moves with the abutments as the crank axle attachment portion is squeezed to decrease the crank axle receiving opening in size.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Masahiro Yamanaka, Eigo Kuroiwa, Tetsu Nonoshita
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Publication number: 20130112038Abstract: A transmission for electric bicycles to detect a torque applied to a pedal crank shaft, includes a pedal crank shaft upon which the torque acts, a hollow shaft configured to connect to an output, through which the pedal crank shaft extends coaxially, and which is supported rotatably with respect to the pedal crank shaft, a sensor shaft offset in parallel with respect to the pedal crank shaft and a force sensor connected to the sensor shaft. The transmission includes a drive-side sensor transmission and an output side sensor transmission. The drive-side sensor transmission connects the pedal crank shaft to the sensor shaft and the output-side sensor transmission connects the sensor shaft to the hollow shaft, which is configured to be connected to an output, and the drive-side sensor transmission has a gear ratio which differs from the gear ratio of the output-side sensor transmission. A corresponding method is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2011Publication date: May 9, 2013Inventors: Serdar Aydogan, Martin Zlindra, Sigmund Braun
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Patent number: 8424893Abstract: A shock absorption system for a bicycle that is simple, flexible and compatible with the many sections of a bicycle where adequate shock absorption is sought. The shock absorption properties are provided through a C-shaped compliant structure. C-shaped compliant structure may be removable such that it may be installed and removed as per the desire of the end user of the bicycle for post market modification and personalization purposes.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Brevets Futek-MSM LTEEInventor: Marcel Guillemette
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Publication number: 20130091981Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is basically provided with a crank axle, a first outer shell member, a second outer shell member, a first crank axle supporting member and a second crank axle supporting member. The crank axle has an end portion with an external mounting surface and an internal mounting surface. The first and second outer shell members are arranged relative to each other with a space being formed between the first and second outer shell members. The first crank axle supporting member is disposed on the first outer shell member and supports the external mounting surface of the crank axle. The second crank axle supporting member is disposed on the first outer shell member and supports the internal mounting surface of the crank axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2012Publication date: April 18, 2013Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventors: Masahiro YAMANAKA, Eigo KUROIWA, Tetsu NONOSHITA
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Publication number: 20130087011Abstract: A bicycle crank arm has a body member and a cover member that at least partially overlies a peripheral surface of the body member. The body member includes a crank axle attachment portion that has a crank axle receiving opening. A slit extends from the peripheral surface of the body member to the crank axle receiving opening. A fastener bore extends transversely through the slit for adjusting the crank axle receiving opening in size. The peripheral surface of the body member has abutments located on opposite sides of the slit. The abutments are arranged relative to the slit such that the abutments move closer together as the crank axle attachment portion is squeezed to decrease the crank axle receiving opening in size. The cover member contacts the abutments and moves with the abutments as the crank axle attachment portion is squeezed to decrease the crank axle receiving opening in size.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2011Publication date: April 11, 2013Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventors: Masahiro YAMANAKA, Eigo KUROIWA, Tetsu NONOSHITA
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Patent number: 8408094Abstract: A quick release device includes a crank having a first hole defined in one end thereof, the crank having a sixth hole opened on one lateral thereof, a fixing sleeve positioned in the first hole of the crank, a third hole opened at one end of the fixing sleeve, a fourth hole opened on the outside periphery of the fixing sleeve therethrough and corresponding to the sixth hole, the fourth hole communicating with the third hole, a quick release assembly partially received in the sixth hole, the quick release assembly having a second engaging rod, a fixing member and a rotating button, the second engaging rod received in the sixth hole, the fixing member connected to the crank and sleeved on the second engaging rod. When the user wants to release the pedal from the crank, the user just rotates the rotating button counterclockwise.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2011Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Inventor: Chung-I Chen
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Publication number: 20130068066Abstract: A crank arm for a bicycle may include a body extending along a body axis and having a first body end and a second body end axially spaced apart from the first body end. The insert may also include an insert provided toward the first body end. The insert may include a base portion having a radially outer surface. At least one extension may extend outwardly from the radially outer surface and may be encased within a corresponding recess in the body whereby relative planar movement between the body and the at least one extension in a first plane. The retaining portion may have a retaining portion width measured in the first direction and the retaining width may be greater than the throat width thereby inhibiting relative radial movement between the at least one extension and the recess and preventing radial extraction of the extension from the corresponding recess.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2012Publication date: March 21, 2013Applicant: RACE FACE PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS INC.Inventor: Race Face Performance Products Inc.
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Patent number: 8375827Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is provided with a crank arm including a front side surface and a back side surface. The crank arm has a crank axle mounting portion with a crank axle receiving opening defined by an axle coupling structure. The axle coupling structure at least includes a plurality of full length splines and at least one short spline. The full length splines extends completely in an axial direction of the crank axle receiving opening from a first axial end edge to a second axial end edge. The short spline extends in the axial direction with a truncated end positioned adjacent one of the first and second axial end edges such that the at least one short spline does not extend completely from the other of the first and second axial end edges to the one of the first and second axial end edges.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Eigo Kuroiwa, Masahiro Yamanaka
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Publication number: 20120304810Abstract: Spindles and cranks for bicycles are disclosed herein. An embodiment of a spindle comprises a first spindle portion comprising a first end and a second end. The first end is substantially opposite the second end, wherein a first bicycle crank arm is attachable to the first end. A second spindle portion comprises a first end and a second end. The first end is substantially opposite the second end, wherein a second bicycle crank arm is attachable to the first end. A spring device is connected between the first spindle portion and the second spindle portion. The first spindle portion second end is located proximate the second spindle portion second end.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: December 6, 2012Inventors: Christopher Butterfield, Spencer Curtis, Jonathan Tollerud
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Patent number: 8302504Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket assembly has a shaft having a longitudinal axis extending along a predetermined direction and a first and second end portion. A first bearing has an inner ring inserted on the shaft in a position adjacent to the first end portion and an outer ring is coupled with a first adapter adapted to be associated with a first end of a housing box of the bottom bracket assembly in a bicycle frame. A second bearing has an inner ring inserted on the shaft adjacent to the second end portion and an outer ring coupled with a second adapter is associated with a second end of the housing box. The assembly further includes first locking means of the inner rings of the first and second bearings acting on the inner rings to prevent the movement of the inner rings in both ways of the predetermined direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2007Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.Inventor: Giuseppe Dal Pra'
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Patent number: 8302505Abstract: A sensing mechanism of pedaling assistant system, including a crank and a sensing element. The crank includes an elongated first crank member and an elongated second crank member connected therewith. A first axial end of the first crank member is connected with a pedal component of a bicycle. A first axial end of the second crank member is connected with an axle of the bicycle. An end face of a second axial end of the second crank member abuts against an end face of a second axial end of the first crank member. The sensing element is disposed between the second axial end of the first crank member and the second axial end of the second crank member for detecting a force transmitted from the pedal component through the first crank member to the second crank member.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2010Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Inventors: Kuang-Hsiung Liu, Chin Lee Liao
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Publication number: 20120260767Abstract: A crankset for a bicycle that includes a first crank, a second crank, a spindle, a bearing, and a preload mechanism. Each of the first crank and the second crank has an end adapted to engage a pedal. The spindle defines an axis and includes a first end that is coupled to the first crank and a second end that is coupled to the second crank. The bearing positioned around the spindle between the first crank and the second crank to permit rotation of the spindle. The preload mechanism is coupled to the spindle between the bearing and the first crank. The preload mechanism includes a washer that extends circumferentially around the spindle and a cam member that is engageable with the washer to move the washer along the axis to preload the bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2011Publication date: October 18, 2012Applicant: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.Inventor: Christopher P. D'Aluisio
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Publication number: 20120238410Abstract: A cycle with tapered drivetrain connections. The cycle includes a frame, a crank rotatably connected to the frame, and a driven wheel rotatably connected to the frame. The crank includes a crank arm and a crank spindle rotatably connected to the frame and non-rotatably connected to the crank arm. The crank spindle includes a crank mating surface to interface with the crank arm. The diameter of the crank spindle continuously decreases along at least a portion of the crank mating surface in a lateral direction. The crank arm includes a crank bore to interface with the crank mating surface. At least a portion of the crank bore has a diameter that continuously decreases in lateral direction. At least a portion of the crank bore taper has a taper rate and diameter equal to a taper rate and diameter of at least a portion of the crank spindle taper.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2011Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: LAND AMERICA HEALTH & FITNESS CO., LTD.Inventors: Deo Magakat, David Beard, Victor Cornejo, Kevin Corbalis, Michael Morgan
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Patent number: 8267417Abstract: A bicycle bottom bracket assembly is at least provided with a first support member and a first bearing unit. The first support member includes a first hanger mounting part and a first bearing mounting part. The first bearing unit is coupled to the first bearing mounting part. The first hanger mounting part has a first outer circumferential surface that is configured and arranged to be press-fitted into a first open end of a hanger part of a bicycle frame. The first hanger mounting part has a first slit extending in an axial direction relative to a rotational axis of the first bearing unit from an open axial innermost end of the first slit at least up to a region that is located radially outwardly from the first bearing unit in a radial direction relative to the rotational axis of the first bearing unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
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Patent number: 8246776Abstract: Disclosed are a method for manufacturing a crank for a bicycle by bonding structural members to each other with an adhesive comprising; a step for applying the adhesive in a line-like or dot-like form in correspondence with an intervention region of the adhesive; a step for disposing a fabric in correspondence with the intervention region of the adhesive; a step for expanding the adhesive applied in a line-like or dot-like form in the fabric; and a step for bonding the structural members to each other with the adhesive expanded in the fabric, and a crank for a bicycle manufactured by the method. When the crank for a bicycle is manufactured by bonding the structural members to each other with the adhesive, the adhesive can be applied easily at a high accuracy and a good repeatability, variations of application condition and amount of used adhesive can be suppressed, and variation in quality can be suppressed.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignees: Toray Industries, Inc., Shimano, Inc.Inventors: Shigeo Iwasawa, Yukitane Kimoto, Shin Tanabe
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Patent number: 8246064Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly is provided with a crank arm and an axial gap adjustment device. The crank arm has a crank axle mounting part, an extension part extending from the crank axle mounting part, a pedal attachment part provided on a radial outer end of the extension part and a sprocket attachment part. The axial gap adjustment device includes an adjustment adapter and an adjustment member. The adjustment adapter has a crank arm engagement structure that non-rotatably engages the crank arm, a first crank axle opening, and a first screw part. The adjustment member has a second crank axle opening, and a second screw part threadedly engaged with the first screw part to selectively position the adjustment member relative to the adjustment adapter.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Eigo Kuroiwa, Masahiro Yamanaka, Shingo Shiraishi
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Publication number: 20120186388Abstract: A crank mechanism for bicycles, in particular racing bicycles on roads, unpaved roads or tracks, includes a winch rod, pedaling members coupled with an end of the rod, and an arm of a connecting rod, of which one end is rotatably coupled with respect to the rod in correspondence of the end of the rod. The pedaling means are rigidly fixed to an opposite end of said arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2012Publication date: July 26, 2012Inventor: Zeno Zani
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Patent number: 8196945Abstract: A locking bicycle pedal includes coiled cables on spools with locking mechanisms attached to free ends. The cables may be extended from the spools. The locking mechanism may comprise a key or combination lock. The locking mechanisms attach to the pedal when not in use for locking the bicycle. A bicycle may be equipped with one or more locking pedals. Where two locking pedals are provided, the locking mechanisms of one pedal may interlock with each other and/or the locking mechanisms of the other pedal. The coil and locking mechanisms do not interfere with normal use of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2011Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Pedal Lock PartnershipInventor: Ryan G. Hensley
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Publication number: 20120079914Abstract: A crank has a connection portion with a connection recess defined therein which has an engaging recess, a reception recess and a reception groove. The engaging recess is located at a closed end of the connection recess and the reception recess is located at an opened end of the connection recess. The reception groove is located between the engaging recess and the reception recess. An axle has an engaging portion at an end thereof and the engaging portion is engaged with the engaging recess. A guide surface is defined in an outer periphery of the cylindrical body. A ring-shaped washer is mounted to the cylindrical body and securely fills into the reception groove and the gap between the axle and the reception recess.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2010Publication date: April 5, 2012Inventor: YU SHENG KAO