Cranks And Pedals Patents (Class 74/594.1)
  • Publication number: 20040177717
    Abstract: A bicycle crank includes a threaded hole defined through an end thereof and a threaded member has a threaded shank which is threadedly engaged with the threaded hole. A flange extends radially from an end of the threaded shank and has two holes through which two fasteners extend and are engaged with receiving holes in a surface of a stepped recess defined in the first side of the crank. A plurality of notches are defined in a periphery of the flange. A ring member is received in a second stepped recess defined in a second side of the crank and has an threaded inner periphery which is threadedly connected to the threaded shank on the second side of the crank. The ring member has a plurality of notches defined in a periphery of the ring member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng-Hsun Chiang
  • Publication number: 20040173049
    Abstract: A ratchet based transmission mechanism mounted in a wheel for a child bicycle is disclosed. In a propelling of the bicycle a pawl is pushed against a tooth, a ratchet disk rotates as both pawl blocks and a transmission disk rotate, and the ratchet disk is secured in a bore of the wheel. When a rotation speed of the wheels is faster than a rotation speed of pedals, the pawl blocks will be pushed inward by the teeth for disengaging the ratchet disk from the transmission disk for stopping the pedals while maintaining the rotation of the wheels. This can prevent a skid from occurring while the bicycle is running on a downhill road or accelerating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventor: Jun-Cheng Chen
  • Publication number: 20040154430
    Abstract: A bicycle crank arm apparatus includes an axle having a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion has an outer peripheral surface and a threaded inner peripheral surface; an axle bolt having a threaded outer peripheral surface screwed into the threaded inner peripheral surface of the first end portion of the axle; a crank arm having an axle mounting boss defining an opening for receiving the first end portion of the axle therein, wherein the axle mounting boss includes a first fastener for tightening the crank arm mounting boss around the first end portion of the axle; and wherein the crank arm boss is positioned axially inwardly of the axle bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20040154431
    Abstract: A bicycle crank arm apparatus includes an axle having a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion has an outer peripheral surface and a threaded inner peripheral surface; an axle bolt having a threaded outer peripheral surface screwed into the threaded inner peripheral surface of the first end portion of the axle; a crank arm having an axle mounting boss defining an opening for receiving the first end portion of the axle therein, wherein the axle mounting boss includes a first fastener for tightening the crank arm mounting boss around the first end portion of the axle; and wherein the crank arm boss is positioned axially inwardly of the axle bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20040149076
    Abstract: A bicycle crank arm assembly is provided with a bicycle crank arm with a first end configured to be coupled to an axle of a bottom bracket and a second end with a pedal attachment bore for receiving a bicycle pedal shaft. A tubular member is press fitted into the bore of the bicycle crank arm. The tubular member has an external circumferential with serrations that is surface non-releasably press fitted into the pedal attachment bore of the bicycle crank arm, and an internally threaded surface adapted to be coupled to the bicycle pedal shaft. The crank arm preferably has a counterbore at one axial end of the pedal attachment bore with a washer disposed therein such that the washer partially overlaps the tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Applicant: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Patent number: 6755095
    Abstract: A bicycle crank arm apparatus includes an axle having a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion has an outer peripheral surface and a threaded inner peripheral surface; an axle bolt having a threaded outer peripheral surface screwed into the threaded inner peripheral surface of the first end portion of the axle; a crank arm having an axle mounting boss defining an opening for receiving the first end portion of the axle therein, wherein the axle mounting boss includes a first fastener for tightening the axle mounting boss around the first end portion of the axle; and wherein the crank arm boss is positioned axially inwardly of the axle bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20040055413
    Abstract: A bicycle crank set includes a crank arm having a pedal-connecting end formed with a through hole, and a pedal unit disposed at one side of the crank arm. The pedal unit includes a pedal shaft and a pedal body pivoted to the pedal shaft to permit rotation of the pedal body about the pedal shaft. The pedal shaft has a crank-connecting end that projects outwardly from the pedal body and into the through hole in the crank arm and that is formed with an internally threaded hole. A headed bolt is disposed at the other side of the crank arm, and threadedly engages the internally threaded hole in the crank-connecting end of the pedal shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-I Chen
  • Publication number: 20040055412
    Abstract: A bicycle crank set includes a crank arm having a pedal-connecting end formed with an internally threaded hole, and a tubular adapter having an externally threaded portion inserted threadedly into the internally threaded hole in the pedal-connecting end of the crank arm. A pedal unit is disposed at one side of the crank arm, and includes a pedal shaft and a pedal body pivoted to the pedal shaft to permit rotation of the pedal body about the pedal shaft. The pedal shaft has a crank-connecting end that projects outwardly from the pedal body and through a shaft hole in the adapter and that is formed with an internally threaded hole. A headed bolt is disposed at the other side of the crank arm, extends into the shaft hole in the tubular adapter, and threadedly engages the internally threaded hole in the pedal-connecting end of the pedal shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-I Chen
  • Publication number: 20040045400
    Abstract: A longitudinal axle is centered within a shell housing welded to a bicycle frame. A portion of each end of the axle engages a bicycle crank. Threaded male and female bracket are threadably engaged around the axle within the shell housing. A bearing is mounted within an outboard portion of each bracket and is held in place by an end cap. An outer rim of the outboard portion of each bracket has an irregular surface for engagement with a wrench to take the bracket apart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Applicant: PROFILE RACING, INC.
    Inventor: Corey J. Alley
  • Patent number: 6699161
    Abstract: An adjustable pedal drive mechanism for bicycles and exercise machines includes a pedal arm attachment plate assembly on each side of the cycle or machine frame. Each plate assembly provides adjustment of the pivotally attached pedal arm, for altering its arcuate travel path and limits. Each pedal arm and plate includes a mechanism for infinitesimally adjusting the corresponding tension member (cable, chain, etc.) to predetermined positional limits, for altering the system's mechanical advantage. The mechanical ratios of each pedal arm are independently adjustable by handlebar controls. The tension member is reciprocated back and forth with corresponding strokes of the corresponding pedal arm, producing rotary force to the rear wheel with each pedal stroke. The rear wheel sprockets/pulleys drive one way mechanisms (ratchets, cam and roller, etc.) on the rear wheel hub. A stationary stand may be provided for a bicycle incorporating the mechanism, for use as an exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Danny E. Speas
  • Publication number: 20040007089
    Abstract: An improved bicycle crankarm consisting of a crankarm having a fixed member and a swivel member. The swivel member provides for the mounting of a pedal. After mounting, the pedal is in a perpendicular state relative to the crankarm and provides for treadling. When the host bicycle is not being utilized or prepared for packaging, the pedal can be directly pivoted into an overlaid configuration relative to the upper and lower ends of the crankarm. As such, the host bicycle does not have the inadequate strength drawbacks that are often the case with a foldable pedal. At the same time, the present invention provides for operating convenience and effectively achieves the objectives of reduced physical dimensions and space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Jeeng-Neng Fan
  • Publication number: 20030226422
    Abstract: A hollow crank arm for a bicycle comprising a body of elongated shape, at the ends of which are formed, respectively, an area for connection of the bottom bracket spindle and an area for connection of the pedal. The body includes a cavity of elongated shape and two solid end portions which are the aforesaid connection areas for the bottom bracket spindle and for the pedal. The crank arm is preferably formed through a forging process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Applicant: Campagnolo Sri
    Inventors: Maurizio Valle, Paolo Pasqua
  • Publication number: 20030205103
    Abstract: A quick release bicycle pedal mounting structure including a solid interchange plug connector connected to a crank and a female threaded manual connect coupling connected to a bicycle pedal. The quick release operates by manually pulling the spring (12) activated slide sleeve (9) on the connect coupling (3) perpendicular to the crank arm, which releases the ball bearings (11) into recesses within the connect coupling (3). Thereby allowing pedal (4) with attached connect coupling (3) to be easily detached from the plug connector (2), which is threaded into the crank arm (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Vaughn
  • Patent number: 6640662
    Abstract: A variable length crank arm assembly (10) is disclosed which is mounted to a bicycle (11). The crank arm assembly (10) has a pair of oppositely disposed crank arms (25) each having a boss (26) from which extends a forked, crank arm member (27). Each crank arm member (27) has a first portion (28) that extends to a second portion (29). The second portion (29) has a proximal stop (31) and a distal stop plate (32). The crank arm assembly (10) also includes a slide (34) slideably mounted upon the second portion (29). A pair of proximal springs (37) are mounted upon the arm member second portion (29) which bias the slide (34) toward distal stop plate (32). A pair of distal springs (38) are mounted upon the second portion (29) which bias the slide (34) toward the proximal stops (31). A pedal assembly (41) is rotatably mounted to the slide (34). The pedal assembly (41) includes a shaft (42) extending from slide (34) and a conventional pedal (43) rotatably mounted to shaft (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Craig Baxter
  • Patent number: 6637292
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle pedal crank, comprising a crank, a crank endpiece, a lock, and a pedal. The crank has a connecting yoke, passed through by a first crank hole and second crank holes which aim across an indentation thereof. The crank endpiece has an insertion part that is inserted in the indentation, with a first hole, second holes and a third hole passing through the insertion part. The lock further comprises a lock body, at least one first bolt and second bolts. The first and second bolts have outer ends connected with the lock body. The first bolt further has an inner end and is hollow, enclosing a space that towards the inner end is limited by a step and accommodates a rod. The rod has a far end that passes through the inner end of the first bolt and is fixed. A spring surrounds the rod, leaning against the step. The pedal is connected with the crank endpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-Hsueh Chu
  • Patent number: 6637291
    Abstract: A bicycle is disclosed with a triangulated crank structure that replaces the single span crank arm which connects the spindle to the foot pedal on bicycles today. Said triangulated crank structure is typically comprised of several sections including two linear spans of structural material arranged so that one end of each linear span connects with the other to form the vertex of an acute angle, proximate to a pedal attachment area. From said vertex, said linear spans diverge and each connects at its opposite end to separate locations on a structural element attached to an end of the bicycle's crankshaft or spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Paul Odom
  • Patent number: 6607326
    Abstract: A planetary sphere/ring gear, comprising a sphere and a ring, which are interconnected by a ball and a socket. The ball is located on the edge of a circular opening in the ring and the socket is located on the body of the sphere. Used in conjunction with this planetary sphere/ring gear is a pedal-powered three or more wheeled vehicle which comprises a chain wheel, and pedals which swivel and which swing on a cradle. An operator's seat also swings on said cradle. Even though traversing across slopes, the chain wheel, pedals and seat are in a straight-with-the-world position, which is a natural and comfortable position for pedaling. The planetary sphere/ring gear is needed in the vehicle to allow the toothed ring, with a drive chain around it, to change its axis to line up with the drive wheel, as it swivels and swings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Lyle J. Christiansen
  • Patent number: 6589139
    Abstract: A cycle (or an adaptation for a cycle) comprises a primary crank arranged for rotation about a first axis, a secondary crank, and connection means for selective connection of the secondary crank to the primary crank at a selected one of a plurality of positions on both the primary crank and the secondary crank. A pedal is mounted on the secondary crank, and selectively operable means is provided for either permitting or preventing rotation of the secondary crank relative to the primary crank, in dependence of the nature of the disabilities or injuries of the user of the cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Paul John Butterworth
  • Patent number: 6581494
    Abstract: Embodiments of a bicycle riding training system are disclosed. The system includes a crank assembly that is removable from the bicycle without disruption of the sprocket and chain. The invented system comprises coaxial shafts that rotate preferably together in a hub bearing assembly. The coaxial shafts preferably include an external shaft within the bearing retainer cups of a bicycle frame bottom hub assembly and an internal shaft that connects to the crank arms. The internal shaft preferably is made of two parts that connect at a midpoint within the external shaft using a bolt, screw or other connector. Removing the connector permits withdrawal of the internal shaft while leaving the external shaft and sprocket assembly intact. An additional feature of the connector in the internal shaft is that it may serve to expand or otherwise tighten the internal shaft inside the external shaft, and thereby fix the internal shaft to the external shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Terry L. Sechler
  • Publication number: 20030106393
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a crank arm quick release device of a bicycle, including a fixing threaded sleeve screwed on the rotation shaft of the pedal, and a crank arm formed with locking recesses for locking and fixing the fixing threaded sleeve. Thus, the pedal may be mounted on the crank arm easily and quickly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: Yung-Sung Lin
  • Publication number: 20030097901
    Abstract: A bicycle crank arm apparatus includes an axle having a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion has an outer peripheral surface and a threaded inner peripheral surface; an axle bolt having a threaded outer peripheral surface screwed into the threaded inner peripheral surface of the first end portion of the axle; a crank arm having an axle mounting boss defining an opening for receiving the first end portion of the axle therein, wherein the axle mounting boss includes a first fastener for tightening the crank arm mounting boss around the first end portion of the axle; and wherein the crank arm boss is positioned axially inwardly of the axle bolt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20030097900
    Abstract: A seal assembly includes a support, an outer seal extending circumferentially around a radially outer surface of the support, and an inner seal extending circumferentially around a radially inner surface of the support. In a more specific embodiment, the support comprises an annular base member, an inner ledge extending from a radially inner side of the base member, and an outer ledge extending from a radially outer side of the base member. The inner seal is disposed at a radially inner edge of the base member opposite the inner tubular member, and the outer seal is disposed around an outer peripheral surface of the outer tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Patent number: 6568296
    Abstract: The crank arm quick release device of a bicycle includes a fixing threaded sleeve screwed on the rotation shaft of the pedal, and a crank arm formed with locking recesses for locking and fixing the fixing threaded sleeve. Thus, the pedal may be mounted on the crank arm easily and quickly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Yung-Sung Lin
  • Patent number: 6564675
    Abstract: A crank arm for bicycles includes two end pieces and a hollow tube connected between the two end pieces. Each of the two end pieces has an engaging hole defined therethrough and an insertion which is inserted in respective one of two ends of the hollow tube. A compound material layer is coated to the outside of the two end pieces and the hollow tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Cheng-Xun Jiang
  • Publication number: 20030075008
    Abstract: An arched bicycle crank arm. A free end of the arched bicycle crank arm is attached to a pedal and a fulcrum end of the arched bicycle crank arm is attached to a bicycle sprocket hub. The bicycle sprocket hub turns a rear sprocket wheel through an endless drive chain via a front sprocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Ichiro Suga
  • Patent number: 6550355
    Abstract: A bicycle crankshaft assembly in accordance with the present invention comprises a frame tube having first and second end portions and defining a passage extending between the end portions. The first end portion define a first opening, and the second end portion define a second opening different to the first opening. An axle is securely assembled into the passage from the second end portion and the axle includes a bushing with a crankshaft rotationally supported therein. The crankshaft includes first and second coupling portions extending over the first and second openings of the first and second end portions of the frame tube. Wherein the first opening is dimensioned such that a first end of the bushing is limited from extending therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Douglas Chiang
  • Publication number: 20030070506
    Abstract: An improved crank structure for bicycle, wherein, a gear plate connector and a pedal connector are installed on two ends of a crank, and there are a first side and a second side extended between the gear plate connector and the pedal connector; there are two pairs of thickness and width perpendicularly and crosswise installed on each of the first side and the second side, and the thicknesses and widths can be measured; the feature is the crank is a non-symmetrical structure. Further, at least one cavity is positioned between the first side and the second side of crank for loosing weight and decreasing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Apex Bicycle Components Corporation Ltd.
    Inventors: Rock Tseng, Roger Hu, Dan Chuang
  • Publication number: 20030066383
    Abstract: A crank arm for bicycles include a crank body having two bases on two ends thereof and each base has a threaded hole. A plurality of extensions extend from one of the bases and each extension is connected to a connection member. A resin layer is coated on the crank body and a carbon fiber layer is coated on the resin layer. The connection members extends from the resin layer and the carbon fiber layer so that a chainwheel is connected to the connection members by rivets or bolts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Cheng-Xun Jiang
  • Patent number: 6543308
    Abstract: A quick change chain ring arrangement for use on a bicycle crank assembly includes a chain ring adapter that is connected to and rotates with the crank assembly about the crank assembly rotational axis. A removable chain ring support removably engages with the chain ring adapter. The chain ring support has a minimum inside opening formed into the chain ring support that is larger than the maximum cross sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the crank arms thereby allowing the chain ring support to be installed onto and removed from the crank assembly without requiring the removal of the crank arms or pedals from the crank assembly and without requiring the removal of the crank assembly from the bicycle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Jeffery M. Harrington
  • Publication number: 20030061900
    Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly comprised of a crank arm and a pedal connected to the crank arm. The crank arm has a pedal-connecting portion through which a transverse hole is located. Contained within the transverse hole is an insert, which is made from a harder material than that of the crank arm. The insert has an inner threaded bore and a support surface located at the front end of the threaded bore. A pedal is attached to the insert such that a threaded portion of the pedal is screwed into the threaded bore of the insert and a flange portion of the pedal abuts against the insert support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Garrett Andrew Smith
  • Publication number: 20030051572
    Abstract: A titanium pedal crank and bottom bracket spindle mounting arrangement in which the bottom bracket spindle has an oversized diameter and an oversized tapered end to minimize the flex naturally associated with titanium spindles and to speed up the manufacturing process; the cranks are designed with an oversized square through pocket in communication with the spindle and an I-beam design; the mounting star is pressed fitted and TIG welded to the right-hand crank. The larger radiuses on both the spindle and in the square tapered crank hole speed up the machining process and reduce the cost of manufacture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Jason A. Sramek
  • Publication number: 20030051573
    Abstract: A carbon fiber bicycle crank includes an axle lug, having a portion for receiving a crank axle. A foam core is coupled to the axle lug during a first molding process. A pedal engaging lug is coupled to the foam core after the completion of the first molding process, and a carbon fiber composite material exoskeleton is coupled to and disposed exteriorly of the axle lug, foam core and pedal lug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Andrew Ording, Aaron Barker
  • Publication number: 20030041689
    Abstract: A foldable bicycle pedal crank, comprising a crank, a crank endpiece, a lock, and a pedal. The crank has a connecting yoke, passed through by a first crank hole and second crank holes which aim across an indentation thereof. The crank endpiece has an insertion part that is inserted in the indentation, with a first hole, second holes and a third hole passing through the insertion part. The lock further comprises a lock body, at least one first bolt and second bolts. The first and second bolts have outer ends connected with the lock body. The first bolt further has an inner end and is hollow, enclosing a space that towards the inner end is limited by a step and accommodates a rod. The rod has a far end that passes through the inner end of the first bolt and is fixed. A spring surrounds the rod, leaning against the step. The pedal is connected with the crank endpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-Hsueh Chu
  • Publication number: 20030037638
    Abstract: A process for the production of a crank lever for a bicycle, comprising the steps of:
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Applicant: Campagnolo Srl
    Inventor: Giuseppe Dal Pra'
  • Publication number: 20030033902
    Abstract: A retractable structure of a bicycle pedal is disclosed. The retractable structure is characterized in that a bottom end of the crank arm body is a hollow cavity space holding a combinative positioning frame plate, corresponding to the frame plate, a sliding slot is provided and the inner edge of the external end of the frame plate is protruded with a positioning protruded edge for the positioning of a covered rotating seat, an insertion side of the frame plate is provided with an insertion slot for the easy positioning of an elastic body, the two sides of the rotating seat corresponding to the sliding slot is provided with a protruded peg directly insertion into the sliding slot and stopped by the shape of the slot, and achieve the corresponding rotating operation, a screw hole seat being provided at one side of the rotating seat and is screwed to the screw rod at one end of the pedal, thereby the rotatably controlling of the rotating seat, the pedal is simultaneously controlled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Chin-Pin Lee
  • Patent number: 6513408
    Abstract: A pedal for a bicycle is formed by a pedal frame (3) which is rotatably held on a pedal shaft (1) and is swivelable to a limited extent on a support (4) about an axis (5) transversal to the pedal shaft (1), with the support (4) consisting of a sleeve (6) which is rotatably held on the pedal shaft (1) and comprises mutually diametrically opposite radial noses (7) for the transversal axis (5). In order to provide advantageous constructional conditions, the sleeve (6) carries a stop (9) for the pedal frame (3) which projects axially over the pedal shaft (1) and the pedal frame (3) forms a receiving opening (10) for a rubber-elastic ring (11) which can be inserted on the axially projecting stop (9) of the sleeve (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Gerhard Hilber
  • Publication number: 20030019325
    Abstract: Bicycle crank comprising: an elongated core with a first and a second end, a first and a second insert arranged on the ends of said core, and a high-resistance fibre coating incorporated in a plastic material matrix forming a casing incorporating said core and said inserts, The core is a rigid element and each insert is equipped with a connecting portion inserted into a respective end of the core to establish a shape coupling therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Campagnolo Srl
    Inventor: Maurizio Valle
  • Publication number: 20030019324
    Abstract: Bicycle crank comprising: an elongated core with a first and a second end, a first and a second insert arranged on the ends of said core, and a high-resistance fibre coating incorporated in a plastic material matrix forming a casing incorporating said core and said inserts. The core is a pre-formed element and each insert is connected to the respective end of the core by means of a respective union element with recesses for establishing a shape coupling with an insert and the respective end portion of the core.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Campagnolo Srl
    Inventor: Maurizio Valle
  • Patent number: 6508146
    Abstract: A pedal driving mechanism for a bicycle which contains structurally improved pedal arms on which pedals are installed to increase the rotary radius of the pedals during the running of the bicycle to obtain optimum driving energy with minimum physical energy consumption, wherein the structure of pedaling mechanism defines a joining line formed by the tooth-coupling of a fixing gear and a rotary gear with the axle line of a driving arm at a right angle, and the trace of the linkage formed by a connection arm and a connection link is set to move in a spiral motion forced to rotate with respect to the center of the fixing gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventors: Byung-Nam Kang, Jong-Suk Kim, Hye-Jong Park
  • Patent number: 6487933
    Abstract: The unit comprises two variable-length pedal cranks (20) having a common rotation pin (21) of transverse axis (A), and a mechanism (34, 35, 36) for varying the length of the two pedal cranks (20) on the basis of their angular position; the position of the axes of the pedals (25) in the vertical plane of projection defines, as the angular position of the pedal cranks (20) varies, an endless closed curve (F) about a reference axis (R) which is displaced by an angle of about 15 degrees forwards from the axis (N) passing through the center of the seat (11) of the bicycle and intersecting the axis (A) of the pin (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Sasti S.R.L.
    Inventors: Giacomo Orioli, Zeno Zani
  • Patent number: 6487932
    Abstract: A bicycle crank assembly comprises pedals, crank arms, an axle and a chainring assembly. The pedals, crank arms, and axle are coupled to the chainring assembly through an elastic element in the form of a U-shaped spring. This elastic coupling allows relative angular rotation between pedals and chainring proportional to the force exerted on the pedals by a bicycle rider. The proportionality constant, or elasticity, is adjustable by repositioning the spring within its supporting structure. The elasticity may be thus adjusted to enable accurate calibration of measurement instrumentation associated with the crank assembly, or for any purpose for which an adjustable elastic coupling is desirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Inventor: Terry E. McIlraith
  • Patent number: 6474192
    Abstract: A bottom bracket bearing axle mounting arrangement includes a bottom bracket bearing axle inserted through a bottom bracket, two ball races mounted on the bottom bracket bearing axle to support a respective set of steel balls around the bottom bracket bearing axle, and two conical, externally threaded, split stop members respectively threaded into a respective inner thread at each of two opposite ends of a bottom bracket to hold two sets of steel balls on the respective ball race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Wen-Hwa Lin
  • Publication number: 20020152835
    Abstract: A light-generating bicycle pedal includes an axle, a pedal body mounted on the axle, and a light-generating unit including a magnet wheel, a coil device and a lamp unit. The pedal body is formed with a board receiving cavity to receive a circuit board of the lamp unit. The coil device includes a set of anchoring lugs to be anchored in a set of anchoring holes in the circuit board. Rotation of the axle relative to the pedal body results in rotation of the magnet wheel relative to the coil device, thereby inducing electrical currents in the coil device that are provided to the lamp unit via the anchoring lugs so as to enable the lamp unit to generate a light output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Chih-Jung Chang
  • Patent number: 6463828
    Abstract: An expansion engagement crank assembly for a bicycle. The assembly includes a female crank arm, a male crank arm, and a connector for connecting the female arm and the male arm. The female arm has a shaft sleeve attached at one end, the sleeve having an inboard end, an outboard end, and a bore originating at the inboard end. The bore is bounded by a mating surface and a a fastener surface. The male arm has a shaft attached at one end and the shaft has a radially expandable inboard end and an outboard end. The inboard end of the shaft is sized for insertion within the bore of the sleeve and has a complimentary mating exterior surface for engaging the mating surface bounding the bore. The shaft additionally has an interior coupling surface defining a passage extending through the shaft from the inboard end to the outboard end. The connector is sized for placement within the bore of the sleeve and the passage of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Soucek
  • Publication number: 20020129676
    Abstract: A bottom bracket bearing axle mounting arrangement includes a bottom bracket bearing axle inserted through a bottom bracket, two ball races mounted on the bottom bracket bearing axle to support a respective set of steel balls around the bottom bracket bearing axle, and two conical, externally threaded, split stop members respectively threaded into a respective inner thread at each of two opposite ends of a bottom bracket to hold two sets of steel balls on the respective ball race.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: Wen-Hwa Lin
  • Patent number: 6443033
    Abstract: A crankset for a bicycle in which the crankshaft separates into two pieces. The separation point is approximately midway between the support bearings for the crankshaft, creating two crankarm/spindle portions. Dowel pins and a bolt are used to connect the two portions. The crankarm/spindle portions are constructed in a tubular fashion, with the tubular element bent to accommodate the transition from the crank arm to the spindle. Additionally, the crankarm/spindle portions are preferably fabricated from composite materials, to offer a lightweight yet strong and stiff crankset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Timothy Eugene Brummer, Brian R. Spence
  • Publication number: 20020096015
    Abstract: A bottom bracket assembly for a bicycle is comprised of a spindle and at least two cartridge bearings. The inner races of the cartridge bearings are axially fixed on the spindle by abutting stop elements. Crank arms attached to the ends of the spindle axially abut the outer stop elements, thus ensuring the precise and consistent axial location of the crank arms. Since the inner bearing races are fixed axially, the outer race of at least one cartridge bearing may be allowed to float in an axial direction to ensure proper alignment of the inner and outer races and the greatest possible bearing life for the bottom bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Garrett Andrew Smith
  • Patent number: 6419251
    Abstract: A propelling scooter includes a chassis, a front wheel steerably attached to a front end of the chassis, a rear wheel rotatably attached to a rear end of the chassis and an elongated pedal disposed longitudinally above the chassis. The pedal has a backward end and a forward end. The pedal is pivotally connected to the chassis between the ends thereof and is adapted to sway relative to the chassis. A first shaft laterally extends through and is rotatably supported on the chassis. The scooter further includes a driving pulley securely mounted around the first shaft, a driven pulley securely attached to a center of the rear wheel, and a primary flexible drive piece reeved around the driving pulley and the driven pulley to transmit rotation from the first shaft to the rear wheel such that the scooter may move forward when the first shaft is rotated relative to the chassis in a correct direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Hung-Che Chueh
  • Patent number: 6415684
    Abstract: A crank arm for fitting to a crank fitting to the crank axle includes a crank axle mounting section having a centering structure for centering the crank axle mounting section to an end of a crank axle, and a rotary linkage member for nonrotatably fitting the crank axle mounting section to the end of the crank axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20020066336
    Abstract: A bicycle is disclosed with a triangulated crank structure that replaces the single span crank arm which connects the spindle to the foot pedal on bicycles today. Said triangulated crank structure is typically comprised of several sections including two linear spans of structural material arranged so that one end of each linear span connects with the other to form the vertex of an acute angle, proximate to a pedal attachment area. From said vertex, said linear spans diverge and each connects at its opposite end to separate locations on a structural element attached to an end of the bicycle's crankshaft or spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Paul Odom