Patent ID: 6095309
Filing Date: 2000-08-01
Classification: B62K,B62L,B62M,Y10T

Abstract:
An actuator for actuating a cycle speed change member, said speed change member consisting of one of a derailleur and a brake, said actuator being incorporated into a generally cylindrical elongate member adapted to form part of a cycle handlebar system, said elongate member having a cavity, first and second ends, and a longitudinal axis extending between said first and second ends, said actuator includingan operating device slidably mounted to said elongate member for sliding between a neutral position and an actuating position axially spaced from said neutral position;a transmission mechanism received within said cavity of said elongate member and coupled to said operating device, said transmission mechanism being adapted to be coupled to said speed change member and to actuate said speed change member when said operating device is in said actuating position; anda speed control cable having a proximate end portion coupled to said transmission mechanism and a remote end portion outside said elongate member adapted to be coupled to said speed change member;wherein said transmission mechanism is adapted to pull said speed control cable into said cavity of said elongate member when said operating device is in said actuating position, said transmission mechanism including a rack and pinion assembly having a first rack coupled to said operating device, a pinion system cooperable with said first rack, and a second rack cooperable with said pinion system, said second rack being coupled to said speed control cable.