HYDRAULIC BRAKE ARRANGEMENT FOR AN AT LEAST PARTIALLY MUSCLE-POWERED BICYCLE

A hydraulic brake arrangement for a bicycle with a transmitting unit with a brake lever, and a cylinder housing with a cylinder space, and with a piston unit displaceably received in the cylinder space. In the tank space of an equalizing reservoir device, a membrane unit is disposed which subdivides the tank space into a fluid space for the hydraulic fluid and an air space sealed against the fluid space. The air space is connected with atmosphere through a vent opening. When the membrane unit is mounted, a filling mouth is in fluid connection with the fluid space. The vent opening opens into a receiving space that is at least partially enclosed by the base body of the transmitting unit. In the receiving space, an actuating mechanism is disposed which transmits force from the brake lever to the piston unit.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a hydraulic brake arrangement for an at least partially muscle-powered bicycle and comprises at least one transmitting unit, wherein a fluid connection can be established with a receiving unit. The transmitting unit comprises a brake lever and a cylinder housing with a cylinder space, and a piston unit displaceably accommodated in the cylinder space and at least one equalizing reservoir device for a hydraulic fluid.

Hydraulic disk brakes for bicycles offer safe braking, including in fast rides and for example in sports cycling, for racing bicycles or mountain bikes. Moreover, safe braking is also provided for electric bicycles or city bikes.

Due to the hydraulic actuation, however, maintenance of these brakes calls for increased requirements. This relates e.g. to filling up the hydraulic fluid and deaerating the closed hydraulic circuit. Moreover, for reliable operation it must be ensured that both during operation and in maintenance work, no dirt can enter in the hydraulic circuit.

In hydraulic bicycle brakes, the hydraulic fluid is as a rule located in the tank bottom. Above, there is air. Thus, as the oil level sinks, a vacuum may show respectively as the oil level rises, excess pressure may show in the tank. To prevent this, a vent hole is as a rule provided which is in fluid connection with atmosphere.

To prevent the hydraulic fluid from escaping through the vent hole (e.g. in a fall), a membrane is disposed in the tank space, separating the tank space to a fluid space and an air space. Deformation of the membrane adapts the fluid space volume to the oil level given at the time. The vent hole prevents any vacuum or excess pressure in the air space.

Usually, both the filling mouth for the hydraulic fluid and the air space are disposed above the membrane, while the fluid space is located beneath the membrane. Thus, the filling mouth opens into the air space when the membrane is mounted. The hydraulic fluid is “shielded” from the filling mouth by means of the membrane. For filling the hydraulic fluid into the fluid space through the filling mouth, the membrane must first be demounted as a rule. After filling the hydraulic fluid in, the membrane must be mounted again.

DE 10 2017 208 483 A1 describes a racing bicycle shifting and braking fitting for a hydraulic racing bicycle, with the air space disposed beneath the membrane. Both the filling mouth and the fluid space are disposed above the membrane. Thus, the hydraulic fluid can be filled into the fluid space through the filling mouth without demounting the membrane.

In view of this, it is the object of the present invention to provide an improved hydraulic brake arrangement. In particular, is the brake arrangement intended to provide particular ease of servicing, which even inexperienced users can readily carry out, without having to demount the membrane. At the same time, the brake arrangement must also offer reliable operation and safe braking action even in difficult conditions, for example in a dirty or abrasive environment (sand, salt) or when installed in mountain bikes.

Summary

The hydraulic brake arrangement according to the invention is provided for an at least partially muscle-powered bicycle. The brake arrangement comprises at least one transmitting unit provided for fluid connection with a receiving unit. The brake arrangement may comprise at least one receiving unit. The transmitting unit comprises a brake lever and a cylinder housing with a cylinder space. The transmitting unit comprises a piston unit displaceably accommodated in the cylinder space. The transmitting unit comprises at least one equalizing reservoir device for a hydraulic fluid. The equalizing reservoir device comprises a tank space and at least one filling mouth for filling the hydraulic fluid into the tank space. At least one (flexible and/or elastic) membrane unit is disposed in the tank space. The membrane unit subdivides the tank space into a fluid space for the hydraulic fluid and an air space sealed (fluid-tight) against the fluid space. At least one duct connection is configured between the fluid space and the cylinder space. In particular, the cylinder space and the fluid space are in fluid connection through the duct connection. The air space is connected with atmosphere through at least one vent opening, so as to enable pressure compensation between the air space and atmosphere. The filling mouth is (when the membrane unit is installed as intended) in fluid connection with the fluid space. The filling mouth, in particular, opens into the fluid space. The filling mouth and the vent opening are, in particular, disposed on opposite sides of the membrane unit. The filling mouth is, in particular, separated (fluid-tight) from the vent opening by means of the membrane unit. The vent opening, in particular, opens into a receiving space. The receiving space is, in particular, at least partially encircled by a base body of the transmitting unit. An actuating mechanism is at least partially disposed, in particular, in the receiving space. The actuating mechanism, in particular, enables force transmission from the brake lever to the piston unit. The vent opening may also exit laterally from the base body and, in particular, from the equalizing reservoir device. Then, the vent opening, in particular, opens into the environment of the transmitting unit above the receiving space.

The brake arrangement according to the invention offers many advantages. A significant advantage is offered by the aeration opening leading into the vent opening. Thus, contamination of the membrane unit and the air space is reliably counteracted. Otherwise, dirt might enter through the vent opening, e.g. reaching the membrane unit and then, during servicing (e.g. as the membrane unit is shifted or removed), it might enter further into the hydraulic circuit. Moreover, such a configuration of the vent opening has shown to be of particular advantage when cleaning a bicycle for example by means of a high pressure cleaner. Otherwise, considerable quantities of water and dirt might enter, so that the membrane unit might be damaged immediately or in the long run. Its arrangement in the receiving space prevents the high pressure jet from being directed immediately toward the vent opening. At the same time, the invention allows particular ease of filling up the hydraulic circuit without having to demount the membrane unit. This again prevents dirt from entering. Moreover, the membrane unit and the hydraulic circuit are on the whole accommodated safely, including in difficult conditions (servicing in the field, use in dirty or dusty environment).

Preferably, the vent opening is configured duct-like. Preferably, the vent opening is configured as a vent hole or it comprises at least one (and, in particular, exactly one) vent hole. The vent opening is preferably configured rotationally symmetrical at least in sections, and it may partially or entirely be configured cylindrical. In particular, may the vent opening have a shape as it is generated by using a drill or milling cutter. Other geometries are likewise possible. In all the configurations, specific embodiments and embodiments, the term “vent opening” may, in particular, be more precisely defined by the term “vent hole”.

The base body is preferably configured integrally. In particular, is the cylinder housing an integral part of the base body. In particular, is the cylinder housing integrally connected with the base body. Preferably, the cylinder space is incorporated in the base body. In particular, is the cylinder space provided by a recess in the base body. In particular, is the base body cut out of one piece of material. Alternately, the base body may be cast in one piece.

In particular, is the vent opening at least partially, and preferably entirely, disposed in the base body. In such a configuration, the mouth of the vent opening into the receiving space offers particularly many advantages. Moreover, the components of the hydraulic circuit are particularly safely accommodated in this way, protected from dirt and shocks. Moreover, such a base body allows a structurally uncomplicated architecture of the brake arrangement including a particularly small number of component parts. This results, in particular, reliability and robustness of operation, and ease of maintenance.

In particular, is the receiving space configured in the base body. In particular, is the receiving space an integral component of the base body. Preferably, the receiving space is incorporated in the base body. In particular, is the receiving space provided by a recess in the base body. The base body, in particular, encircles the receiving space on at least two sides, and preferably on at least three sides, at least partially. In particular, is the receiving space enclosed by the base body on at least two and preferably at least three sides, at least in sections.

In an advantageous specific embodiment, an imaginary elongation of the longitudinal axis of the vent opening intersects the actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism comprises, in particular, at least one connecting rod device with a connecting rod and a connecting rod small end. In particular, is the connecting rod small end firmly connected with the connecting rod. In particular, is the connecting rod device configured as one piece. In particular, is the piston unit operatively coupled with the brake lever through the actuating mechanism, such that the piston unit is displaced in the cylinder space as the transmitting unit is actuated.

The imaginary elongation preferably intersects the connecting rod device and, in particular, its connecting rod. The connecting rod device, in particular, extends from the receiving space through a connecting opening of the cylinder housing into the cylinder space. The connecting opening is, in particular, configured in a supporting wall. The vent opening opens into the receiving space, in particular, above the connecting rod device.

Preferably, the receiving space accommodates, at least partially, at least one cam body of the actuating mechanism. A connecting rod device and preferably its connecting rod is, in particular, pivotally linked to the cam body. It is preferred for the vent opening to open into the receiving space between the cam body and a supporting wall. The supporting wall, in particular, comprises a connecting opening through which the actuating mechanism (in particular, the connecting rod device) extends from the receiving space into the cylinder space to the piston unit. This offers a particularly advantageous accommodation of the vent opening in the receiving space. An imaginary elongation of the longitudinal axis of the vent opening extends, in particular, between the supporting wall and the cam body.

The connecting rod device is preferably linked to the cam body for pivoting around a connecting rod pivot axis. It is preferred and advantageous for the connecting rod pivot axis and a longitudinal axis of the vent opening to extend in one shared plane and preferably in parallel. When the brake lever is in a rest position, and/or when the connecting rod device with its connecting rod small end rests against the supporting wall (inside the cylinder space), then the connecting rod pivot axis and the longitudinal axis of the vent opening and the longitudinal axis of the cylinder space preferably extend in one shared plane. In the scope of the present invention, a rest position is, in particular, understood to mean that the transmitting unit respectively the brake lever are not actuated. This offers a particularly compact while protected accommodation of the vent opening and the actuating mechanism in the receiving space. When the brake lever is actuated, the connecting rod pivot axis, in particular, pivots out of a plane in which extend the longitudinal axis of the vent opening and the longitudinal axis of the cylinder space.

In particular, is the brake lever linked to a lever accommodation for pivoting around a brake lever pivot axis. The vent opening preferably has a longitudinal axis extending in one plane shared with the brake lever pivot axis and, in particular, parallel to the brake lever pivot axis. The lever accommodation is preferably an integral component of the base body and is, in particular, integrally connected with the base body. The brake lever is, in particular, pivotally supported on the base body. The brake lever pivot axis preferably extends through the receiving space. Thus, the brake lever respectively the actuating mechanism contribute to protecting the vent opening. It is also possible for the brake lever pivot axis to laterally limit the receiving space. A cam pivot axis extends, in particular, through the receiving space. The connecting rod pivot axis, in particular, extends through the receiving space.

In an advantageous configuration, the vent opening and the duct connection comprise longitudinal axes extending in one shared plane and preferably in parallel. Such a configuration relates, in particular, to a longitudinal axis of at least one equalizing hole and/or at least one lubrication hole and/or a central duct of the duct connection. This allows a particularly uncomplicated manufacture of the vent opening and for example together with the duct connection. The configurations described above offer a particularly advantageous, structural basis for such an arrangement of the vent opening.

In a particularly advantageous and preferred specific embodiment, an imaginary axial elongation of the cylinder space extends through the receiving space. An imaginary elongation of the longitudinal axis of the cylinder space extends, in particular, through the receiving space. An imaginary elongation of the longitudinal axis of the cylinder space intersects, in particular, an imaginary elongation of the longitudinal axis of the vent opening.

It is preferred and advantageous for the equalizing reservoir device (in particular, at least the tank trough and/or the cover and/or the membrane unit) to be disposed above the cylinder space and the receiving space. Preferably, the equalizing reservoir device and the cylinder space and/or the receiving space have longitudinal axes extending in one shared plane and preferably in parallel. Such a structural architecture offers many advantages. The equalizing reservoir device is, in particular, configured elongated.

Preferably, the equalizing reservoir device bridges the cylinder housing and the receiving space, at least in sections. The bottom of the tank trough, in particular, forms a cover (i.e. the upper wall) of the cylinder housing and the receiving space.

The filling mouth is preferably also configured as a deaeration opening for deaerating a hydraulic circuit. Preferably, deaeration is possible with a membrane unit installed as intended. Deaeration is, in particular, possible without removing the membrane unit. The transmitting unit, the receiving unit and the conduction device, in particular, provide a closed hydraulic circuit. In the scope of deaeration, the filling mouth is, in particular, suitable and configured to carry off air from the hydraulic circuit into the environment. Thus, even inexperienced users can readily fill up and deaerate the brake arrangement. Moreover, no additional bores or holes in the transmitting unit are required.

Preferably, the air space is disposed beneath the membrane unit. Preferably, the fluid space is disposed above the membrane unit. These arrangements are, in particular, given when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended. The air space is, in particular, located between the membrane unit and the receiving space. The receiving space is, in particular, located beneath the equalizing reservoir device. The cylinder space is, in particular, at least partially, located beneath the equalizing reservoir device. The membrane unit and the tank space extend, in particular, only over part of the radial circumference of the cylinder housing.

The equalizing reservoir device (in particular, the tank space), in particular, shows a longitudinal axis which is inclined (oblique) to the horizontal when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended. Preferably, the equalizing reservoir device has at least one collecting area for the air, disposed higher than are the remaining areas of the equalizing reservoir device, when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended. The filling mouth is preferably disposed on the collecting area and, in particular, above the collecting area of the equalizing reservoir device. Preferably, an end portion of the equalizing reservoir device is located higher than is an end portion of the equalizing reservoir device lying opposite in the longitudinal direction, when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended. Then, the filling mouth is preferably disposed on the end portion of the equalizing reservoir device lying higher. This allows even more ease and reliability of deaerating the brake arrangement. The brake arrangement may comprise at least one handlebar where the transmitting unit can be mounted. The brake arrangement may comprise a bicycle with such a handlebar.

In particular, is the end portion of the equalizing reservoir device which is located higher, closer to the brake lever than is the end portion located lower, when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended. Then, the end portion of the equalizing reservoir device located lower, is, in particular, closer to a connection port respectively a receiving end of the transmitting unit, than is the end portion of the equalizing reservoir device located higher. The brake lever, in particular, forms the highest point of the transmitting unit when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended. The brake lever pivot axis is, in particular, also positioned inclined to the horizontal respectively to the longitudinal axis of the handlebar, when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended.

The transmitting unit may comprise a handlebar link, which is configured such that the transmitting unit can (only) be mounted to a handlebar such that the longitudinal axis of the equalizing reservoir device is inclined to the longitudinal axis of the handlebar (as described above). It is also possible for the handlebar to show a cranked portion (so-called upsweep), to which the transmitting unit can be fastened by means of the handlebar link. The cranked portion then inclines the transmitting unit to the horizontal.

Preferably, the duct connection and the filling mouth are disposed to end portions of the equalizing reservoir device which are opposite each other in the longitudinal direction. The duct connection is, in particular, disposed on the end portion of the equalizing reservoir device located lower. This causes further improvement to deaerating.

Preferably, the vent opening and the filling mouth have longitudinal axes extending in a shared plane and preferably in parallel. The vent opening and the filling mouth, in particular, do not have a shared longitudinal axis. Alternately it is possible for the vent opening and the filling mouth to have a shared longitudinal axis.

The equalizing reservoir device preferably comprises at least one tank trough and at least one cover. The tank trough and the cover are, in particular, mounted to one another, sealed by means of at least one tank sealing. The tank sealing is an integral component of the membrane unit. Thus, the quantity of components is reduced and mounting is simplified. The membrane unit, in particular, comprises at least one tank sealing. The tank sealing is, in particular, integrally connected with the membrane unit. The membrane unit is, in particular, configured as one piece. The tank sealing is, in particular, disposed at least partially circumferential around a membrane component.

The tank space is, in particular, limited by the tank trough and the cover. The tank trough is, in particular, an integral component of the base body. The tank trough is, in particular, integrally connected with the base body. The cover is, in particular, a separate part. The tank trough is, in particular, provided by a recess in the base body. The tank trough may be manufactured by material removal from the base body.

In an advantageous configuration, the vent opening is configured in the bottom in the tank trough. The filling mouth is, in particular, configured in the cover. The bottom of the tank trough, in particular, also forms a cover (i.e., a top wall) of the receiving space and/or the cylinder space. This offers ease of manufacturing a particularly compact transmitting unit.

It is possible and preferred for the tank trough and/or the cover to provide at least one receiving groove for the tank sealing. In particular, the tank trough and the cover are spaced apart in the region of the receiving groove when mounted as intended, such that the tank sealing is accommodated shear-proof. In this way, the tank sealing, for example in the case of an accident involving a shock acting on the cover, cannot be jammed and sheared off. The cover and the tank trough, in particular, outside of the receiving groove, are in contact, with one another at least in sections. The cover is, in particular, fastened and preferably screwed to the tank trough.

In an advantageous specific embodiment the membrane unit comprises a membrane component that can be spread between the fluid space and the air space. The membrane component is, in particular, an integral component of the membrane unit. The membrane component is, in particular, integrally connected with the membrane unit. Preferably, the membrane unit comprises at least one arcuate connection member. The connection member, in particular, biases the membrane component, at least in sections, against the bottom of the equalizing reservoir device.

The membrane component is, in particular, connected with the tank sealing through the connection member. The connection member extends, in particular, between the tank sealing and the membrane component. The connection member is, in particular, also an integral component of the membrane unit. The connection member, in particular, enables movement of the membrane component relative to the tank sealing.

Preferably, the membrane component is configured convex above the vent opening. Thus, the membrane component is, in particular, disposed spaced apart from the bottom of the equalizing reservoir device, at least where it is convex.

Preferably, the membrane unit provides at least one trough space which is encircled by a trough bottom and side walls extending transverse to the trough bottom. The fluid space is, in particular, disposed in the trough space. The air space and the vent opening are, in particular, disposed on a side of the trough space facing away from the fluid space (in particular, beneath the trough bottom). The trough space is, in particular, configured open (on top) and there it is preferably closed by the cover (and, in particular, by the tank trough as well).

The membrane component is, in particular, configured trough-like. The membrane component, in particular, comprises at least one membrane trough. In the mounted state as intended, the membrane trough extends, in particular, into the tank trough. Preferably, the membrane trough protrudes out of the tank trough. The membrane trough, in particular, protrudes beyond the tank sealing. The bottom of the membrane trough is, in particular, convex. The bottom edge of the membrane trough in particular rests against the bottom of the equalizing reservoir device. The connection member, in particular, biases the bottom edge of the membrane trough against the bottom of the equalizing reservoir device. The membrane trough is, in particular, configured pre-shaped.

Preferably, the duct connection extends from the fluid space through the cover of the equalizing reservoir device and through the base body to the cylinder space. It is preferably provided for the cover and the base body to be mounted to one another circumferentially around the duct connection, sealed by means of a duct sealing. The duct sealing is, in particular, an integral component of the membrane unit. The duct sealing is, in particular, integrally connected with the membrane unit. The duct connection extends, in particular, at least in sections, inside the cover and inside of the base body. The duct connection extends, in particular, through that part of the base body which provides the cylinder housing, and, in particular, also through a part of the base body which is disposed above the cylinder housing and laterally adjacent to the tank trough.

The cover and/or the tank trough, in particular, provide at least one receiving groove for the duct sealing, such that the duct sealing is accommodated shear-proof. This receiving groove is, in particular, configured in analogy to the above-described receiving groove for the tank sealing.

Preferably, the duct sealing encircles the duct connection annularly. Preferably, the duct sealing extends in sections between the cover and a tank trough of the equalizing reservoir device. The duct sealing is, in particular, suitable and configured to prevent air from the air space from entering into the duct connection (between the cover and tank trough). The duct sealing is, in particular, configured in a ring shape. The duct sealing, in particular, encloses a (central) through hole. The duct sealing and the tank sealing, in particular, extend immediately adjacent to one another, in sections. In these regions, the duct sealing, in particular, also seals the tank space from the duct connection.

Preferably, the tank sealing encircles the membrane component in a ring shape. This ensures a reliable sealing of the tank space against the outside, and at the same time, a reliable sealing of the air space against the fluid space. Preferably, the duct sealing is disposed outside of the membrane component. This offers many structural advantages and enables for example a particularly compact design of the transmitting unit. Moreover, particularly high degrees of freedom ensue for the arrangement of the duct connection, which in turn can be utilized for a particularly compact and lightweight layout of the transmitting unit. The tank sealing is, in particular, disposed between the cover and the tank trough along its entire circumference.

The duct sealing is, in particular, not encircled by the tank sealing in a ring shape. The duct sealing is, in particular, located outside of the tank sealing, at least in sections. The duct sealing is, in particular, located laterally adjacent to the membrane component and in particular, at least in sections, laterally adjacent to the tank sealing. The tank sealing extends, in particular, in sections, between the duct sealing and the membrane component.

An advantageous specific embodiment provides for the hydraulic fluid to have to pass the membrane unit to get (from the tank space) to the cylinder space. To this end, the hydraulic fluid preferably passes through the membrane unit through a through hole enclosed by the duct sealing. Preferably, the hydraulic fluid must flow through the through hole in the membrane unit, to get from the fluid space via the duct connection to the cylinder space.

Particularly preferably, the membrane unit is configured integrally. In particular, the membrane component and the connection member and the tank sealing and the duct sealing are integrally interconnected. The membrane unit is, in particular, configured flexible and preferably elastic. The applicant retains the right to seek protection for a membrane unit, in particular, for use with a brake arrangement, which subdivides the tank space into a fluid space for the hydraulic fluid and an air space sealed (fluid-tight) against the fluid space. Preferably, the membrane component and the connection member and the tank sealing and the duct sealing are integrally interconnected in the membrane unit. Preferably, the claimed membrane unit is configured as described herein.

The duct connection, in particular, comprises a longitudinal axis, which extends transverse to a shared longitudinal axis of the equalizing reservoir device and the cylinder space and the receiving space.

The duct connection, in particular, comprises at least one equalizing hole. The equalizing hole may also be referred to as snifter hole. The equalizing hole is, in particular, understood to mean a channel-type through hole, which does not need to be manufactured by boring or drilling. The duct connection, in particular, comprises at least one lubrication hole. The duct connection comprises, in particular, a central duct, which is subdivided in the at least one equalizing hole and the at least one lubrication hole. The central duct, in particular, shows a larger cross section than the equalizing hole and/or the lubrication hole. The central duct is, in particular, configured as a blind hole bore in the base body. The equalizing hole and the lubrication hole, in particular, begin in the bottom of the central duct from where they extend into the cylinder space. The duct connection is, in particular, formed by at least one hole and preferably a number of holes in the base body and/or in the cover.

Preferably, the central duct and at least one of the at least one equalizing holes and at least one of the at least one lubrication holes show longitudinal axes extending in a shared plane and preferably in parallel. In the case of two or more equalizing holes (or lubrication holes), this indicates, in particular, an imaginary longitudinal axis in the center of the holes or the longitudinal axis of a central hole. The vent opening extends, in particular, non-orthogonal to the at least one equalizing hole and/or to the at least one lubrication hole.

The duct connection comprises, in particular, at least one transverse duct connecting the central duct with the fluid space. The transverse duct is, in particular, configured in the cover.

A part of the central duct, in particular, extends in the cover, and another part of the central duct, in the base body. The duct sealing extends, in particular, between the two parts of the central duct.

The piston unit and the cylinder housing, in particular, limit a pressure space (provided for fluid connection with the receiving unit). The pressure space represents, in particular, a part of the cylinder space. The at least one equalizing hole is disposed in the cylinder housing (in particular, in a cylinder wall of the cylinder housing). The at least one equalizing hole connects the pressure space with the fluid space (when the piston unit is in a rest position respectively when the transmitting unit is not actuated). In the case of actuation of the transmitting unit, the piston unit seals the pressure space, in particular, against the fluid space, such that pressure can be applied on the pressure space. In other words, actuating the transmitting unit allows the piston unit to close the equalizing hole. A subsequent further movement of the piston unit results, in particular, in a pressure buildup in the pressure space and in reduction of the pressure space volume. The transmitting unit is, in particular, actuated by (manually) moving respectively actuating the brake lever.

The at least one lubrication hole, in particular, connects with the fluid space, a part of the cylinder space lying outside of the pressure space. The lubrication hole is, in particular, disposed between the equalizing hole and a lever-side end of the cylinder housing. The lubrication hole, in particular, feeds hydraulic fluid from the tank space to lubricate the piston unit. Moreover, the lubrication hole, in particular, carries off into the tank space any hydraulic fluid leaking behind a primary seal of the piston unit sealing device.

The cylinder housing comprises, in particular, on a receiving end, a connection port for linking a conduction device. The hydraulic fluid in the pressure space communicates, in particular, through the connection port with the hydraulic fluid in the conduction device respectively the receiving unit. The connection port and the connecting opening lie, in particular, on the longitudinal axis of the cylinder space. The connection port and the connecting opening are, in particular, disposed on opposite ends of the cylinder housing.

In the scope of the present invention, particulars on relative positioning of components, in particular, relate to a mounting position as intended of the brake arrangement, and, in particular, to a transmitting unit mounted to a handlebar as intended. The term “fluid-tight”, in particular, relates to the hydraulic fluid employed, under pressure conditions provided for operation.

The filling mouth is, in particular, sealed against the air space by means of the membrane unit. The vent opening is, in particular, disposed beneath the membrane unit. The hydraulic fluid rests, in particular, on the membrane unit. The hydraulic fluid, in particular, does not rest on the tank trough bottom. The fluid space is, in particular, located on a higher level than the air space. The fluid space is, in particular, located above the air space. The air space is, in particular, located beneath the fluid space.

The equalizing reservoir device is, in particular, at least partially (in particular, its tank trough) an integral component of the base body. The lever accommodation is, in particular, an integral component of the base body. In particular, at least one section of the handlebar link (in particular, at least one of the at least two linking sections) is an integral component of the base body.

The base body, in particular, comprises at least the cylinder housing, the receiving space (or a receiving space housing), the tank trough, the lever accommodation and/or at least one part of the handlebar link. In particular, the components indicated above are integrally interconnected. In particular, the cylinder housing and at least in sections, the equalizing reservoir device, and at least in sections, the handlebar link and the lever accommodation, are integrally interconnected. These components, in particular, provide the base body, or they are at least parts of the base body. In particular, the base body may comprise further components which are integrally configured therewith.

In particular, the tank space is at least in sections (in particular, its tank trough) configured, and preferably incorporated, in the base body. The tank space is, in particular, provided by a recess in the base body, at least in sections. Particularly preferably, the receiving space and the cylinder space (and, in particular, at least sections of the tank space as well) are manufactured by way of material removal from the base body. The receiving space is, in particular, enclosed by a receiving space housing. The receiving space housing is preferably an integral component of the base body. The receiving space housing is preferably integrally connected with the base body.

The equalizing hole may comprise, or be provided by, one or more single holes. The equalizing hole discussed in the scope of the present invention, in particular, relates to all the single holes. This applies in analogy, in particular, also to a lubrication hole. The vent opening may also consist of at least two or more single holes. Alternately, the vent opening may comprise one hole only. In the scope of the present invention, a hole may be manufactured by means of boring or other suitable processes, and for example by milling or the like. In the scope of the present invention, a hole is, in particular, understood to mean at least one elongated (channel-type) (through) hole.

The receiving space, in particular, has access to atmosphere. The receiving space is, in particular, not sealed against atmosphere. The receiving space is, in particular, configured partially open. The receiving space comprises, in particular, at least one opening through which the cam body extends toward the brake lever and/or through which the brake lever extends toward the cam body. The receiving space, in particular, does not have a bottom or is provided with an opening in the bottom. The receiving space may comprise a closed bottom.

The cam body is, in particular, pivotally linked to a lever accommodation by means of a cam pivot axle. In particular, the connecting rod device and the cam body are pivotable relative to one another. The brake lever pivot axis and the cam pivot axis are, in particular, identical. The brake lever and the cam body, in particular, have one shared point of support on the lever accommodation. The connecting rod pivot axis, in particular, extends through the cam body.

It is possible and advantageous for the cam body and the brake lever to be fixedly interconnected. Then, the cam body and the brake lever can, in particular, only be moved jointly. For example, the cam body and the brake lever may be integrally interconnected. The cam body and the brake lever may be configured as separate components. It is also possible and advantageous for the cam body and the brake lever to be movable relative to one another. Preferably, the cam body and the brake lever can then be pivoted around one shared pivot axis independently of one another.

The transmitting unit can, in particular, be mounted to the handlebar of a bicycle. The brake arrangement comprises, in particular, at least one handlebar link for mounting the transmitting unit to a handlebar. The handlebar link is, in particular, integrally connected with the base body, at least in sections. The handlebar link comprises, in particular, at least two linking sections, which encircle at least part of the handlebar. In particular, at least a first of the at least two linking sections is integrally connected with the base body. At least one second of the at least two linking sections is, in particular, configured separate from the base body and can preferably be removably fastened to the base body (e.g. by screwing). Alternately, the handlebar link may be configured for mounting the transmitting unit directly on the handlebar (e.g. by screws or receivers/flanges laminated to the handlebar).

The piston unit comprises, in particular, a piston (respectively piston body) and at least one piston sealing device. The piston is, in particular, configured integrally. Alternately, the piston may be structured multipart. In the scope of the present invention, the term “piston unit” is, in particular, used to mean the piston and the piston sealing device mounted thereto.

The piston sealing device comprises in particular at least one (first) piston sealing disposed circumferentially around the piston. The piston sealing, in particular, seals the piston against the cylinder housing. The piston sealing, in particular, seals the pressure space against the equalizing hole (when the piston unit is displaced in the cylinder space due to actuation). The piston sealing may also be referred to as a primary sealing.

The piston sealing device, in particular, comprises at least one further piston sealing. The further piston sealing may be referred to as a secondary sealing. The further piston sealing is, in particular, located outside of the pressure space. The further piston sealing is, in particular, spaced apart from the primary sealing. The further piston sealing is, in particular, located between the primary sealing and an end of the piston facing the supporting wall. The further piston sealing, in particular, seals the tank space against the connecting opening and preferably against the receiving space.

It is advantageous that bubbles, if any, can virtually always float upwardly. In all the configurations it is particularly preferred that in the mounted (and operational) state the filling mouth25is (as a rule) disposed in the highest point of the fluid space35(of the transmitting unit10), when the transmitting unit10is mounted to a handlebar101. This reliably guides air bubbles outwardly.

The vent opening, in particular, comprises at least two mouths. A first mouth opens into the receiving space. A second mouth opens into the air space. The second mouth is, in particular, located lower than is the first mouth. The second mouth is, in particular, located beneath the first mouth. Liquids and/or dirt can, in particular, drain out of the vent opening into the receiving space, due to gravity. The vent opening, in particular, extends (in respect of its longitudinal axis) transverse to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder space and/or transverse to the longitudinal axis of a handlebar (when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended). The vent opening, in particular, extends (in respect of its longitudinal axis) inclined to the horizontal (when the transmitting unit is mounted to a handlebar as intended). The vent opening, in particular, forms a duct between the mouths. The duct is, in particular, encircled by the material of the base body. The vent opening is, in particular, configured in the tank trough of the equalizing reservoir device. The cylinder housing is preferably integrally connected with the tank trough of the equalizing reservoir device.

The connection port is preferably provided with at least one chamfer. Preferably, the chamfer is suitable and configured to protect, and, in particular, compress when pushing the piston unit into the connection port, a piston sealing device mounted to the piston. In particular, is the chamfer disposed on a receiver-side end of the cylinder space. For example, the chamfer is located on the receiver-side end of a raceway for the piston unit (so-called cylinder raceway). The chamfer is, in particular, disposed in a transition from a first to a second diameter of the connection port, wherein the first diameter is smaller than the second diameter. In particular, is the first diameter the minimum diameter of the connection port, and preferably corresponds to the diameter of the cylinder space. In particular, is the chamfer configured integrally with the cylinder housing.

Further advantages and features of the present invention can be taken from the exemplary embodiments which will be described below with reference to the enclosed figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

TheFIGS.1and2illustrate bicycles100configured as a mountain bike respectively racing bicycle, each being equipped with a hydraulic brake arrangement1according to the application. The bicycles100are each provided with a front wheel102and a rear wheel103, provided to be braked separately by means of separate hydraulic circuits11. To this end, the hydraulic circuits11each comprise a transmitting unit10and a receiving unit200.

A bicycle100comprises a frame104, a handlebar101with grips114, a saddle107, a fork or suspension fork105and in the case of the mountain bike, a rear wheel damper106may be provided. A pedal crank112with pedals used for propelling the bicycle. Optionally, the pedal crank112and/or the wheels102,103may be provided with an electrical auxiliary drive. The hubs of the wheels102,103may each be attached to the frame104or the fork105by means of a clamping system113(for example a through axle or a quick release). The frame104and the fork105each have a receiving unit200fastened thereto, presently configured as hydraulic disk brakes. The receiving unit200is connected with the associated transmitting unit10by means of a conduction device201, not visible, such that a closed hydraulic circuit11results. The transmitting units10of a bicycle100are mounted to opposite ends of the handlebar101, each showing a brake lever2provided for finger actuation. In the racing bicycle100, the transmitting unit10is configured as a shifting-braking combination.

The brake arrangement1according to the application will now be described in detail with reference to the various illustrations of theFIGS.3to11.

The brake arrangement1comprises a transmitting unit10, which is connected via a conduction device201with a receiving unit200, not shown, for example a disk brake. The transmitting unit10is fastened to the handlebar101of a bicycle100, presently by means of a handlebar link8, as has been described above.

This handlebar link8comprises two linking sections18,28. The first linking section18is an integral component of a base body20. The second linking section28is screwed to the first linking section18and comprises two parts which are pivotally coupled to one another through a hinge.

The transmitting unit10comprises a cylinder housing3with a cylinder space13and a piston unit4displaceably received in the cylinder space13. The cylinder housing3is also an integral component of the base body20.

A brake lever2, likewise integrated in the base body20, is supported on a lever accommodation22so that said lever can pivot around a brake lever pivot axis12. The brake lever2is coupled to the piston unit4by means of an actuating mechanism7. Pulling the brake lever2causes displacement of the piston unit4in the cylinder space13.

The actuating mechanism7comprises a connecting rod device17with a connecting rod170and a connecting rod small end171, and a cam body27. The cam body27is supported on the lever accommodation22, such that it can pivot around a cam pivot axis37. The brake lever pivot axis12and the cam pivot axis37are presently identical. The connecting rod device17is linked to the cam body27for pivoting around a connecting rod pivot axis172. The cam body27is accommodated in a receiving space30of the base body20. The cam body27is configured integrally with the brake lever2.

The cylinder housing3comprises a lever-side end73and a receiver-side end83. The receiving space30lies on a longitudinal axis shared with the cylinder space13. On the receiver-side end83, a connection port93is configured for coupling the conduction device201. On the lever-side end73, a connecting opening43is configured, through which the connecting rod170extends from the receiving space30into the cylinder space13to the piston unit4. The connecting opening43is configured in a supporting wall33, which is integrally connected with the cylinder housing3.

The piston unit4comprises a piston14and a piston sealing device24, which is provided by a primary sealing54and a secondary sealing64. The piston unit4is shown in a rest position44, since the transmitting unit10is not actuated. In the rest position44, the connecting rod small end171bears against a contact portion330of the supporting wall33(seeFIG.11). Here, the piston unit4rests against the connecting rod small end171with its lever-side end.

A biasing member34, configured as a spring, rests against the opposite end of the piston unit4. The biasing member34is supported on a support structure931of a connecting unit930. The connecting unit930is screwed into the receiver-side end83of the cylinder housing3, such that the hydraulic fluid can only exit from the cylinder space13through the connecting unit930and the linked conduction device201. Between the connecting unit930and the cylinder housing3, a sealing932is disposed such that the screw thread is not necessarily required for sealing.

For storing hydraulic fluid, an equalizing reservoir device5with a tank space15is provided. The hydraulic fluid provided is presently a biologically decomposable oil. Alternately, mineral oil or brake fluid (DOT) may be provided. The equalizing reservoir device5comprises a tank trough75and a cover85. The tank trough75is an integral component of the base body20.

In the cover85, a filling mouth25is provided, which doubles as a deaeration opening65for deaerating the hydraulic circuit11in the scope of maintenance work. The cover85of the equalizing reservoir device5is fastened to the tank trough75with two screws850. For closing the filling mouth25or the deaeration opening65, another screw850is provided.

In the tank space15, a membrane unit6is disposed, subdividing the tank space15into a fluid space35for the hydraulic fluid and an air space45. The membrane unit6seals the fluid space35from the air space45.

The piston unit4and the cylinder housing3shown, limit a pressure space131, which forms part of the cylinder space13. The pressure space131is connected with the fluid space35through an equalizing hole53configured in a cylinder wall130of the cylinder housing3. Merely exemplarily, the equalizing hole53consists of a total of three single holes. In the sectional view of theFIG.5, the sectional plane extends through the central hole of the three holes.

The equalizing hole53is exposed when the piston unit4is in the rest position44. When the transmitting unit10is actuated, the piston unit4seals the pressure space131against the fluid space35with its primary sealing54. This applies pressure on the pressure space131, when the brake lever2continues to be pulled. Then, the receiving unit200is actuated, and for example a piston of a disk brake is extended.

In addition to the equalizing hole53, the cylinder space13is connected with the fluid space35through a lubrication hole63. The lubrication hole63opens into a part of the cylinder space13lying outside of the pressure space131. Through the lubrication hole63, hydraulic fluid can flow behind the primary sealing54, where it lubricates the piston unit4. Moreover, the hydraulic fluid can return into the tank space15through the lubrication hole63, when it has flowed behind the primary sealing54. The lubrication hole63is sealed by means of the secondary sealing64against the connecting opening43and the receiving space30located behind.

The equalizing hole53and the lubrication hole63are parts of a duct connection23which connects the fluid space35with the cylinder space13. The equalizing hole53and the lubrication hole63extend from a central duct230of the duct connection230into the cylinder space15. The central duct230is connected with the fluid space35through a transverse duct231configured in the cover85. The central duct230and the equalizing hole53and the lubrication hole63are configured in the base body20.

The air space45is connected with atmosphere through a vent opening (and, in particular, e.g. a vent hole)55. Thus, pressure changes are equalized, when the quantity of hydraulic fluid in the fluid space35increases or decreases, thus causing the membrane unit6to bulge upwardly respectively downwardly. The vent opening55shown is configured in the bottom751of the tank trough75and opens into the receiving space30. Thus, the vent opening55is enclosed by the base body20in the region of its mouth and accommodated well protected in the receiving space30.

In the transmitting unit120shown, an imaginary elongation of the longitudinal axis of the vent opening55intersects the connecting rod170. Moreover, the connecting rod pivot axis172and the vent opening55extend in parallel to one another. The brake lever pivot axis12extends in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vent opening55. Moreover, the vent opening55, the central of the three equalizing holes53and the lubrication hole63and the central duct230, show longitudinal axes extending in parallel to one another. The equalizing reservoir device5and the cylinder space13show longitudinal axes extending in parallel to one another.

The membrane unit6is configured integrally, and comprises a tank sealing16and a membrane component26and a connection member36, and a duct sealing46. The membrane unit6is particularly clearly visible in the detail illustration ofFIG.9.

In a mounted state as intended, the tank sealing16extends between the tank trough75and the cover85, such that these are mounted sealed to one another. The membrane component26is enclosed by the tank sealing16and is spread between the fluid space35and the air space45.

The connection member36is configured arcuate and connects the membrane component26with the tank sealing16. The connection member36biases the membrane component26in the region of a circumferential bottom edge against the bottom751of the tank trough75(seeFIG.8). In the region of the vent opening55, the membrane component26is configured bulged, such that it is disposed spaced apart from the bottom751.

The tank sealing16is accommodated in a receiving groove750of the tank trough75. Since the tank trough75and the cover85are spaced apart in the region of the receiving groove750, the tank sealing16cannot shear off even in the case of shocks acting on the cover85. In the region of the duct sealing46, the tank sealing16extends between the duct sealing46and the membrane component26. Moreover, the base body20likewise has a receiving groove750in the region of the duct sealing46to prevent the duct sealing46from shearing off.

The duct sealing46seals the duct connection23against the cover85and the base body20. Since the duct connection23shown, extends from the fluid space35through the cover85and further through the base body20to the cylinder space13, the hydraulic fluid does not need to flow through the membrane component26. The hydraulic fluid may pass the membrane unit6outside of the tank sealing16.

To this end, the hydraulic fluid passes the membrane unit6through a through hole56configured in the duct sealing46. This omits a passage in the membrane component26, the sealing of which tends to be very complicated. Nevertheless, no additional sealing needs to be mounted, since the membrane unit6also provides for the duct sealing46.

The air space45is configured beneath the fluid space35. The filling mouth25opens directly into the fluid space35, such that the membrane unit6does not need to be removed for filling up the hydraulic fluid. Since the filling mouth24is also configured as a deaeration opening65, the membrane unit6is not required to be demounted for deaerating either.

As can be clearly seen in theFIG.7, the equalizing reservoir device (respectively the entire transmitting unit10) has a longitudinal axis (drawn in a dash-dotted line in theFIG.7) inclined to the horizontal40when the transmitting unit10is mounted to the handlebar101of the bicycle100as intended. Thus, the end portion of the equalizing reservoir device5, on which the filling mouth25and the deaeration opening65are disposed, is positioned higher than the opposite end portion. Thus, the hydraulic fluid collects in the region of the duct connection23, while any air possibly present in the fluid space35collects in the end portion with the filling mouth25respectively the deaeration opening65. The duct connection23and the filling mouth25are disposed on end portions of the equalizing reservoir device5opposite each other in the longitudinal direction.

When manufacturing the brake arrangement1shown, the base body20is manufactured by selective material removal from a base body blank. This generates the base body20shown, in which the cylinder housing3with the cylinder space13and the supporting wall33and the contact portion330, the lever accommodation22and the tank trough75of the equalizing reservoir device5, and the receiving space30and the pertaining holes or ducts are fixedly incorporated.

After working out the cylinder space13, the supporting wall33is readily accessible to tools, from the connection port93. Thus, the contact surface330can be processed uncomplicated while highly precisely, working from the connection port93. Before or after, the connecting opening43can also be manufactured through the connection port93or working from the receiving space30. The equalizing hole53may be manufactured before or after manufacturing the contact portion330.

In any case, the equalizing hole53and the contact portion330are incorporated in the base body20at defined distances530from one another (seeFIG.6). In the case that the cover85is not mounted yet, the equalizing hole53can be positioned in the base body20very uncomplicated and with high precision, such that the distance530observe particularly narrow tolerances. When the dimensions of the piston unit4and the connecting rod17are given, the dead travel is defined via the distance530. Since the invention precisely observes the distance530, the dead travel is also specified with particularly narrow tolerances.

After finishing the cylinder space13, the piston unit4in the preassembled state (the piston14with the piston sealing device24mounted) is inserted into the cylinder space13through the connection port93. The minimum diameter of the connection port93is matched to the maximum diameter of the cross sectional geometry of the piston unit4. To protect the piston sealing device24when pushing in, the connection port93shown is provided with a chamfer93a.

Firstly, the connecting rod device17is inserted into the cylinder space13through the connection port93, with the connecting rod170leading. The connecting rod171is guided back out from the cylinder space13through the connecting opening43, and connected with the cam body27in the receiving space30.

On a side of the connecting opening43facing away from the cylinder space13, a sealing groove174is incorporated into the base body20. A sealing member173is inserted into the sealing groove174, through which the connecting rod170extends. In this way, the cylinder space13is sealed from the receiving space30.

After inserting the piston unit4in the cylinder space13, the biasing member34is inserted through the connection port93(seeFIG.10). Thereafter, the connecting unit930is screwed in, so as to compress the biasing member34. The biasing member34causes the piston unit4to be biased in the rest position44such that the connecting rod small end171is urged against the contact portion330of the supporting wall33.

The transmitting unit10shown, due to its special structural assembly, allows exchanging the piston sealing device24respectively the piston14within a very short time, for practiced persons for example in less than one minute. To gain access to the piston unit4, only the connecting unit930needs to be unscrewed. Since the piston unit4bears only loosely (biased) against the connecting rod device17, the piston unit4can be pulled out of the cylinder space13quite simply through the connection port93. After mounting for example a new primary sealing54, the piston unit4can, again quite simply, be reinserted in the cylinder space13.

After inserting the biasing member34and screw-fixing the connecting unit930, the transmitting unit10is then completely installed again. Due to the distance530fixedly incorporated in the base body20and the supporting wall33with its contact portion330configured integrally in the base body20, the dead travel is then automatically adjusted optimally. Subsequent filling up and deaerating the hydraulic circuit11can be done very simply and safely, due to the equalizing reservoir device5and the membrane unit6described above.

While a particular embodiment of the present hydraulic brake arrangement for an at least partially muscle-powered bicycle have been described herein, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the invention in its broader aspects and as set forth in the following claims.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS