Patent ID: 12240562

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The embodiment(s) will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements throughout the various drawings.

First Embodiment

As seen inFIG.1, a human-powered vehicle2includes a derailleur10in accordance with a first embodiment. In the present application, a human-powered vehicle is a vehicle to travel with a motive power including at least a human power of a user who rides the human-powered vehicle (i.e., rider). The human-powered vehicle includes a various kind of bicycles such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a hand bike, and a recumbent bike. Furthermore, the human-powered vehicle includes an electric bike (E-bike). The electric bike includes an electrically assisted bicycle configured to assist propulsion of a vehicle with an electric motor. However, a total number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited to two. For example, the human-powered vehicle includes a vehicle having one wheel or three or more wheels. Especially, the human-powered vehicle does not include a vehicle that uses only an internal-combustion engine as motive power. Generally, a light road vehicle, which includes a vehicle that does not require a driver's license for a public road, is assumed as the human-powered vehicle.

The human-powered vehicle2further includes a vehicle body2A, a saddle2B, a handlebar2C, an operating device3, an operating device4, a drive train DT, a wheel W1, a wheel W2, a brake device BK1, a brake device BK2, and an electric power source PS. The operating devices3and4are configured to be mounted to the handlebar2C. The operating device3is configured to be connected to the brake device BK1via a mechanical cable or a hydraulic hose. The operating device4is configured to be connected to the brake device BK2via a mechanical cable or a hydraulic hose. The drive train DT includes the derailleur10, a crank CR, a front sprocket assembly FS, a rear sprocket assembly RS, and a chain C.

The derailleur10includes a derailleur FD and a derailleur RD. The front sprocket assembly FS is secured to the crank CR. The rear sprocket assembly RS is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body2A. The chain C is engaged with the front sprocket assembly FS and the rear sprocket assembly RS. The derailleur RD is configured to be mounted to the vehicle body2A. The derailleur RD is configured to shift the chain C relative to a plurality of sprockets of the rear sprocket assembly RS to change a gear position of the human-powered vehicle2. The derailleur FD is configured to be mounted to the vehicle body2A. The derailleur FD is configured to shift the chain C relative to a plurality of sprockets of the front sprocket assembly FS to change the gear position of the human-powered vehicle2. The derailleur FD can be omitted from the derailleur10if needed and/or desired. In such an embodiment, the front sprocket assembly FS includes only a single front sprocket.

The electric power source PS is configured to be mounted to the vehicle body2A. Examples of the electric power source PS include a battery, a capacitor, and a generator. In the first embodiment, the electric power source PS includes a battery PS1. The electric power source PS is configured to be mounted on a down tube of the vehicle body2A. However, the electric power source PS can be configured to be mounted to other parts of the vehicle body2A such as a seat tube. The electric power source PS can be configured to be directly mounted to devices such as the derailleur FD or RD. The electric power source PS can include a generator mounted to a hub assembly to generate electricity using a rotation of the wheel W1and/or W2.

The derailleur RD is configured to be operated using the operating device3. The derailleur FD is configured to be operated using the operating device4. In the first embodiment, the derailleur RD is configured to be electrically connected to the operating devices3and4through a wireless communication channel. As discussed later, however, at least one of the derailleurs RD and FD can be automatically operated in an automatic shifting mode. Thus, in a case where the human-powered vehicle2has only the automatic shifting mode, a shifter unit can be omitted from the operating device3, and a shifter unit can be omitted from the operating device4. Furthermore, in a case where the derailleur FD is omitted from the derailleur10, the shifter unit of the operating deice4can be omitted from the operating device4.

The derailleur RD is electrically connected to the electric power source PS through an electric cable EC1. The derailleur FD is electrically connected to the electric power source PS through an electric cable EC2. The electric power source PS is configured to supply electric power to the derailleurs FD and RD through the electric cables EC1and EC2. For example, the derailleurs FD and RD and the electric power source PS are configured to communicate with each other using a power line communication (PLC). However, the derailleurs FD and RD and the electric power source PS can be configured to communicate with each other using other communication method such as a wireless communication.

In the present application, the derailleur RD is configured to wirelessly communicate with the operating devices3and4. The derailleur RD is configured to receive control signals wirelessly transmitted from each of the operating devices3and4. The derailleur FD is configured to communicate with the derailleur RD through the electric power source PS and the electric cables EC1and EC2. The derailleur RD is configured to transmit, through the electric power source PS and the electric cables EC1and EC2to the derailleur FD, control signals wirelessly transmitted from the operating device4to the derailleur RD. For example, the derailleur RD is configured to transmit, through a controller of the electric power source PS and the electric cables EC1and EC2to the derailleur FD, control signals wirelessly transmitted from the operating device4to the derailleur RD. However, the derailleur RD can be configured to receive control signals wirelessly transmitted from only one of the operating devices3and4. In such embodiments, the derailleur FD can be configured to receive control signals wirelessly transmitted from the other of the operating devices3and4.

However, the structure of the human-powered vehicle2is not limited to the above structure. For example, each of the derailleurs FD and RD can be configured to be electrically connected to the electric power source PS through the electric cables EC1and EC2and an additional device such as a junction box6. Each of the derailleur RD and the electric power source PS can be configured to be electrically connected to the derailleur FD through the electric cables EC1and EC2if the derailleur FD includes a plurality of cable connectors. Each of the derailleur FD and the electric power source PS can be configured to be electrically connected to the derailleur RD through the electric cables EC1and EC2if the derailleur RD includes a plurality of cable connectors. The derailleur FD can be configured to be electrically connected to the derailleur RD through the electric cable EC1or EC2if the electric power source PS is directly mounted to one of the derailleurs FD and RD. Furthermore, the derailleur RD can be connected to at least one of the operating devices3and4through an electric cable without wireless communication. In addition, the derailleur FD can be configured to be electrically connected to at least one of the operating devices3and4through a wireless communication channel.

In the present application, the following directional terms “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “rearward,” “left,” “right,” “transverse,” “upward” and “downward” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those directions which are determined on the basis of a user (e.g., a rider) who is in the user's standard position (e.g., on the saddle2B or a seat) in the human-powered vehicle2with facing the handlebar2C. Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur FD and/or RD) or other components, should be interpreted relative to the human-powered vehicle2equipped with the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur FD and/or RD) as used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

As seen inFIG.2, the front sprocket assembly FS includes a plurality of front sprockets FS1and FS2. The front sprocket FS1corresponds to a low gear of the front sprocket assembly FS. The front sprocket FS2corresponds to a top gear of the front sprocket assembly FS. The rear sprocket assembly RS includes a plurality of rear sprockets RS1to RS12. The rear sprocket RS1corresponds to a low gear of the rear sprocket assembly RS. The rear sprocket RS12corresponds to a top gear of the rear sprocket assembly RS.

Downshifting occurs the chain C is shifted from a sprocket to a neighboring larger sprocket in an inward direction D31in the rear sprocket assembly RS. Upshifting occurs the chain C is shifted from a sprocket to a neighboring smaller sprocket in an outward direction D32in the rear sprocket assembly RS. The outward direction D32is an opposite direction of the inward direction D31.

Downshifting occurs the chain C is shifted from a sprocket to a neighboring smaller sprocket in an inward direction D61in the front sprocket assembly FS. Upshifting occurs the chain C is shifted from a sprocket to a neighboring larger sprocket in an outward direction D62in the front sprocket assembly FS. The outward direction D62is an opposite direction of the inward direction D61.

The vehicle body has a transverse center plane CP. The transverse center plane CP is perpendicular to a rotational center axis A1and/or A2of the rear sprocket assembly RS and/or the front sprocket assembly FS. The transverse center plane CP is defined to bisect a transverse width of the vehicle body2A in a transverse direction D1parallel to the rotational center axis A1and/or A2of the rear sprocket assembly RS and/or the front sprocket assembly FS. The transverse direction D1is perpendicular to the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. The inward direction D31and the outward direction D32are parallel to the transverse direction D1. The inward direction D61and the outward direction D62are parallel to the transverse direction D1.

As seen inFIG.3, the human-powered vehicle2includes a wired communication structure WS. The electric power source PS is electrically connected to the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur RD and/or FD) with the wired communication structure WS to supply electricity to the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur RD and/or FD). For example, the wired communication structure WS includes at least one electric cable. However, the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur RD and/or FD) can be electrically connected to another electric power source which is separately provided from the electric power source PS. For example, the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur RD and/or FD) can be electrically connected to an electric power source provided inside the vehicle body2A or directly attached to the derailleur10(e.g., the derailleur RD and/or FD).

The operating device4is a separate device from the operating device3. The operating device3is mounted to a right part of the handlebar2C. The operating device4is mounted to a left part of the handlebar2C. However, the positions of the operating device3and the operating device4are not limited to the first embodiment. The operating device4can be integrally provided with the operating device3as a single device if needed and/or desired.

The operating device3is configured to receive a first user input U11and a first additional user input U12. The operating device3is configured to output a first control signal CS11in response to the first user input U11. The operating device3is configured to output a first additional control signal CS12in response to the first additional user input U12.

The operating device3includes a first electrical switch SW11and a first additional electrical switch SW12. The first electrical switch SW11is configured to receive the first user input U11. The first additional electrical switch SW12is configured to receive the first additional user input U12.

The operating device4is configured to receive a second user input U21and a second additional user input U22. The operating device4is configured to output a second control signal CS21in response to the second user input U21. The operating device4is configured to output a second additional control signal CS22in response to the second additional user input U22.

The operating device4includes a second electrical switch SW21and a second additional electrical switch SW22. The second electrical switch SW21is configured to receive the second user input U21. The second additional electrical switch SW22is configured to receive the second additional user input U22.

In the first embodiment, the first user input UI1and the first control signal CS11indicate downshifting of the derailleur RD. The first additional user input U12and the first additional control signal CS12indicate upshifting of the derailleur RD. The second user input U21and the second control signal CS21indicate downshifting of the derailleur FD. The second additional user input U22and the second additional control signal CS22indicate upshifting of the derailleur FD.

As seen inFIGS.4and5, the derailleur RD for the human-powered vehicle2comprises a base member12, a movable member14, and a linkage16. The base member12is configured to be attached to the vehicle body2A of the human-powered vehicle2. The movable member14is configured to be movable relative to the base member12. The linkage16is configured to movably connect the movable member14to the base member12.

The linkage16includes a first link18. The first link18is pivotally coupled to the base member12about a first pivot axis PA11and is pivotally coupled to the movable member14about a first additional pivot axis PA12. The first additional pivot axis PA12is offset from the first pivot axis PA11. The first additional pivot axis PA12is parallel to the first pivot axis PA11. However, the first additional pivot axis PA12can be non-parallel to the first pivot axis PA11if needed and/or desired.

The linkage16includes a second link20. The second link20is pivotally coupled to the base member12about a second pivot axis PA21and is pivotally coupled to the movable member14about a second additional pivot axis PA22. The second additional pivot axis PA22is offset from the second pivot axis PA21. The second additional pivot axis PA22is parallel to the second pivot axis PA21. However, the second additional pivot axis PA22can be non-parallel to the second pivot axis PA21if needed and/or desired.

The movable member14includes a movable body22and a chain guide24. The movable body22is movably coupled to the base member12. The linkage16is configured to movably connect the movable body22to the base member12. The first link18is pivotally coupled to the movable body22about the first additional pivot axis PA12. The second link20is pivotally coupled to the movable body22about the second additional pivot axis PA22.

The chain guide24is movably coupled to the movable body22. The chain guide24is pivotally coupled to the movable body22about a pivot axis PA3. The chain guide24is configured to be engaged with the chain C. The chain guide24is configured to shift the chain C relative to the base member12.

The chain guide24includes a guide body26, a guide pulley28, and a tension pulley30. The guide body26is pivotally coupled to the movable body22about the pivot axis PA3. The guide pulley28is rotatably coupled to the guide body26about a guide rotational axis RA11. The guide pulley28is configured to be engaged with the chain C. The tension pulley30is rotatably coupled to the guide body26about a tension rotational axis RA12. The tension pulley30is configured to be engaged with the chain C. In the first embodiment, the guide rotational axis RA11and the tension rotational axis RA12are offset from the pivot axis PA3. However, one of the guide rotational axis RA11and the tension rotational axis RA12can be coincident with the pivot axis PA3if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.6, the derailleur RD for the human-powered vehicle2comprises an electrical actuator32. The electrical actuator32is configured to operatively move the movable member14relative to the base member12. The electrical actuator32is configured to generate actuating force AF1to move the movable member14relative to the base member12. The electrical actuator32is attached to the base member12. The electrical actuator32includes an actuator casing34. The actuator casing34is secured to the base member12. However, the electrical actuator32can be attached to members (e.g., the movable member14or the linkage16) other than the base member12if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.7, the electrical actuator32includes an output part36. The output part36is rotatable relative to the actuator casing34about a rotational axis RA2. The output part36is configured to rotate relative to the actuator casing34about the rotational axis RA2to output the actuating force AF1. The output part36includes a first end36A and a second end36B. The output part36extends between the first end36A and the second end36B along the rotational axis RA2.

In the first embodiment, the output part36includes an output shaft38. The output shaft38extends along the rotational axis RA2. The output shaft38is rotatable relative to the actuator casing34about the rotational axis RA2. However, the structure of the output part36is not limited to the output shaft38.

The second link20is pivotally coupled to the first end36A and the second end36B about the rotational axis RA2. The second link20is pivotally coupled to the base member12via the output part36about the rotational axis RA2. Namely, the second pivot axis PA21is coincident with the rotational axis RA2. However, the second pivot axis PA21can be offset from the rotational axis RA2if needed and/or desired. The rotational axis RA2can be coincident with one of the first pivot axis PA11, the first additional pivot axis PA12, and the second additional pivot axis PA22if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIGS.6and8, the second link20includes a first lever39(see e.g.,FIG.6), a second lever40(see e.g.,FIG.8), and an intermediate part42(see e.g.,FIG.8). As seen inFIG.6, the first lever39is pivotally coupled to the base member12about the second pivot axis PA21and is pivotally coupled to the movable member14about the second additional pivot axis PA22. As seen inFIG.8, the second lever40is pivotally coupled to the base member12about the second pivot axis PA21and is pivotally coupled to the movable member14about the second additional pivot axis PA22. The intermediate part42couples the first lever39to the second lever40.

As seen inFIG.8, the second lever40includes a lever body44, an additional lever body46, and a fastener48. The additional lever body46is a separate member from the lever body44and is secured to the lever body44with the fastener48. In the first embodiment, the lever body44, the first lever39, and the intermediate part42are integrally provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member. However, at least one of the lever body44and the second lever40can be a separate member from the intermediate part42if needed and/or desired. The additional lever body46can be integrally provided with the lever body44as a one-piece unitary member if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.6, the first link18includes a first link end18A and a first link opposite end18B. The first link18extends between the first link end18A and the first link opposite end18B. The first link end18A is pivotally coupled to the base member12about the first pivot axis PA11. The first link opposite end18B is pivotally coupled to the movable member14about the first additional pivot axis PA12.

As seen inFIG.9, the electrical actuator32includes a motor50and a gear structure52. The motor50is configured to generate the actuating force AF1. The gear structure52couples the motor50to the output part36to transmit the actuating force AF1to from the motor50to the output part36. The motor50and the gear structure52are provided in the actuator casing34(see e.g.,FIG.8).

The motor50includes a rotor shaft50A. The rotor shaft50A is configured to output the actuating force AF1to the gear structure52. The gear structure52includes at least one gear. In the first embodiment, the gear structure52includes first to seventh gears G1to G7. The first gear G1is secured to the second gear G2to transmit the actuating force AF1from the first gear G1to the second gear G2. The second gear G2meshes with the third gear G3. The third gear G3is secured to the fourth gear G4to transmit the actuating force AF1from the third gear G3to the fourth gear G4. The fourth gear G4meshes with the fifth gear G5. The fifth gear G5is secured to the sixth gear G6to transmit the actuating force AF1from the fifth gear G5to the sixth gear G6. The sixth gear G6meshes with the seventh gear G7. The seventh gear G7is secured to the output part36to transmit the actuating force AF1from the seventh gear G7to the output part36.

The gear structure52includes a rotation restriction structure54. The rotation restriction structure54is configured to allow the output part36to rotate in response to the actuating force AF1generate by the motor50. The rotation restriction structure54is configured to restrict the output part36from being rotated by external input force EF applied via at least one of the movable member14and the linkage16(see e.g.,FIG.6). The rotation restriction structure54is configured to restrict the external input force EF from being transmitted from the output part36to the motor50. Thus, the rotation restriction structure54is configured to protect the motor50from the external input force EF. In the first embodiment, the rotation restriction structure54includes a worm gear54G secured to the rotor shaft50A of the motor50. The first gear G1meshes with the worm gear54G. However, the rotation restriction structure54can include other parts such as a torque diode if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.10, the movable member14is configured to be movable relative to the base member12in a first direction D21and a second direction D22different from the first direction D21. The electrical actuator32is configured to operatively move the movable member14relative to the base member12in the first direction D21and the second direction D22. In the first embodiment, the second direction D22is an opposite direction of the first direction D21and is parallel to the first direction D21. However, the second direction D22can be other directions different from the first direction D21if needed and/or desired. For example, the second direction D22can be inclined relative to the first direction D21if needed and/or desired.

The movable member14is movable relative to the base member12in the inward direction D31toward the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. The movable member14is movable relative to the base member12in the outward direction D32away from the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. The outward direction D32is an opposite direction of the inward direction D31. The first direction D21includes the inward direction D31. The second direction D22includes the outward direction D32. More specifically, the first direction D21is the inward direction D31. The second direction D22is the outward direction D32. The first direction D21and the second direction D22are perpendicular to the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. However, the first direction D21can include the outward direction D32, and the second direction D22can include the inward direction D31. At least one of the first direction D21and the second direction D22can be non-perpendicular to the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A if needed and/or desired.

The movable member14is movable relative to the base member12between a first position P1and a second position P12. The first position P1is closer to the transverse center plane CP than the second position P12. The movable member14is moved relative to the base member12from the second position P12to the first position P1in the first direction D21or the inward direction D31. The movable member14is moved relative to the base member12from the first position P1to the second position P12in the second direction D22or the outward direction D32. However, the second position P12can be closer to the transverse center plane CP than the first position P1if needed and/or desired.

The first position P1corresponds to the largest sprocket RS1of the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.2). The second position P12corresponds to the smallest sprocket RS12of the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.2). The first position P1corresponds to an innermost position and/or a low gear position. The second position P12corresponds to an outermost position and/or a top gear position. The first position P1can also be referred to as an innermost end position P1or a low-gear position P1. The second position P12can also be referred to as an outermost end position P12or a top-gear position P12. However, the first position P1can correspond to the smallest sprocket RS12, an outermost position, and/or a top gear position. The second position P12can correspond to the largest sprocket RS1, an innermost position, and/or a low gear position.

The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the first direction D21or the inward direction D31in response to the first control signal CS11(see e.g.,FIG.3). The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the second direction D22or the outward direction D32in response to the first additional control signal CS12(see e.g.,FIG.3).

The electrical actuator32is configured to stop the movable member14in at least one intermediate position which is different from the first position P1and the second position P12. The at least one intermediate position is defined between the first position P1and the second position P12.

In the first embodiment, the electrical actuator32is configured to stop the movable member14in each of a plurality of intermediate positions P2to P11. The electrical actuator32is configured to position the movable member14in each of the plurality of intermediate positions P2to P11. The intermediate positions P2to P11are arranged in the second direction D22in this order. The intermediate position P2is the closest to the first position P1among the intermediate positions P2to P11. The intermediate position P11is the closest to the second position P12among the intermediate positions P2to P11. The total number of the intermediate positions is not limited to the above embodiment.

FIGS.4and11show a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is in the first position P1.FIGS.4and12show a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is in the second position P12. InFIGS.11and12, the chain guide24is omitted from the movable member14.

As seen inFIGS.11and12, the derailleur RD includes an adjustment structure56. The adjustment structure56is configured to change an amount of movement of the movable member14. The adjustment structure56is configured to change the first position P1relative to the base member12in the first direction D21or the second direction D22. The adjustment structure56is configured to change the second position P12relative to the base member12in the first direction D21or the second direction D22.

The adjustment structure56is configured to stop the movable member14in the first position P1when the movable member14is moved toward the first position P1in the first direction D21. The adjustment structure56is configured to position the movable member14in the first position P1. The adjustment structure56is configured to stop the movable member14in the second position P12when the movable member14is moved toward the second position P12in the second direction D22. The adjustment structure56is configured to position the movable member14in the second position P12.

The adjustment structure56includes a first adjustment screw57and a second adjustment screw58. The first adjustment screw57is attached to the base member12. The second adjustment screw58is attached to the base member12. The base member12includes a first threaded hole12A and a second threaded hole12B. The first adjustment screw57is threadedly engaged with the first threaded hole12A. The second adjustment screw58is threadedly engaged with the second threaded hole12B.

The first adjustment screw57is contactable with at least one of the movable member14and the linkage16. The second adjustment screw58is contactable with at least one of the movable member14and the linkage16. In the first embodiment, the first adjustment screw57is contactable with the second link20of the linkage16. The second adjustment screw58is contactable with the second link20of the linkage16. As seen inFIG.11, the first adjustment screw57is in contact with the second link20in a first state where the movable member14is in the first position P1. As seen inFIG.12, the second adjustment screw58is in contact with the second link20in a second state where the movable member14is in the second position P12. However, the first adjustment screw57can be configured to be contactable with the first link18of the linkage16or the movable member14if needed and/or desired. The second adjustment screw58can be configured to be contactable with the first link18of the linkage16or the movable member14if needed and/or desired.

Rotation of the first adjustment screw57relative to the base member12moves the first adjustment screw57relative to the base member12along a first longitudinal axis57A of the first adjustment screw57. Thus, rotation of the first adjustment screw57relative to the base member12changes the first position P1of the movable member14.

Rotation of the second adjustment screw58relative to the base member12moves the second adjustment screw58relative to the base member12along a second longitudinal axis58A of the second adjustment screw58. Thus, rotation of the second adjustment screw58relative to the base member12changes the second position P12of the movable member14.

As seen inFIGS.11and12, the derailleur RD for the human-powered vehicle2comprises a first biasing member60and a second biasing member62. The second biasing member62is a separate member from the first biasing member60.

The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the first direction D21via the second biasing member62if the output part36of the electrical actuator32rotates in a first rotational direction D41. The second biasing member62is configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the first link18in response to a first rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32in the first rotational direction D41. The movable member14is configured to move relative to the base member12in the first direction D21in response to the actuating force AF1transmitted from the output part36of the electrical actuator32via the second biasing member62.

The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the second direction D22via the first biasing member60if the output part36of the electrical actuator32rotates in a second rotational direction D42which is an opposite direction of the first rotational direction D41. The first biasing member60is configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the second link20in response to a second rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32in the second rotational direction D42. The movable member14is configured to move relative to the base member12in the second direction D22in response to the actuating force AF1transmitted from the output part36of the electrical actuator32via the first biasing member60.

As seen inFIG.11, the output part36is configured to be operatively coupled to the movable member14to move the movable member14relative to the base member12. The derailleur RD further comprises an output member64. The output member64is coupled to the output part36of the electrical actuator32to rotate along with the output part36. The output member64is rotatable relative to the actuator casing34about the rotational axis RA2along with the output part36of the electrical actuator32.

The output part36is coupled to the output member64to transmit the actuating force AF1from the output part36to the output member64in the first rotational direction D41and the second rotational direction D42. The output part36is secured to the output member64to transmit the actuating force AF1from the output part36to the output member64in the first rotational direction D41and the second rotational direction D42.

In the first embodiment, the output member64extends radially outwardly from the rotational axis RA2of the output part36. The output member64includes an output lever64L. The output lever64L extends radially outwardly from the rotational axis RA2of the output part36. However, the structure of the output member64is not limited to the output lever64L.

As seen inFIG.11, the derailleur RD further comprises a saver member68. The saver member68is pivotally coupled to at least one of the base member12, the movable member14, the linkage16, and the electrical actuator32. In the first embodiment, the saver member68is pivotally coupled to the base member12through the output part36of the electrical actuator32. The saver member68is pivotally coupled to the output part36of the electrical actuator32. The saver member68is pivotable relative to the output part36of the electrical actuator32about the rotational axis RA2.

In the first embodiment, the saver member68extends radially outwardly from the rotational axis RA2of the output part36. The saver member68includes a saver lever68L. The saver lever68L extends radially outwardly from the rotational axis RA2of the output part36. However, the structure of the saver member68is not limited to the saver lever68L.

As seen inFIG.13, the second link20, the output member64, and the saver member68are provided to at least partially overlap with each other as viewed along the rotational axis RA2or the second pivot axis PA21. In the first embodiment, the second link20, the output member64, and the saver member68are provided to partially overlap with each other as viewed along the rotational axis RA2or the second pivot axis PA21. However, at least one of the second link20, the output member64, and the saver member68can be provided to entirely overlap with another of the second link20, the output member64, and the saver member68as viewed along the rotational axis RA2or the second pivot axis PA21if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.7, the output member64is secured to the output part36of the electrical actuator32. The output member64includes a hole64A. The output part36of the electrical actuator32is press-fitted in the hole64A of the output member64. In the first embodiment, the output part36of the electrical actuator32is a separate member from the output member64. However, the output part36of the electrical actuator32can be integrally provided with the output member64as a one-piece unitary member if needed and/or desired.

The saver member68includes a hole68A. The output part36of the electrical actuator32is rotatably provided in the hole68A of the saver member68about the rotational axis RA2. The output part36includes an intermediate member69. The intermediate member69is secured to the output shaft38. The intermediate member69includes a hole69A. The output shaft38is press-fitted in the hole69A of the intermediate member69. The intermediate member69is slidably provided in the hole68A of the saver member68. The intermediate member69can be integrally provided with the output shaft38as a one-piece unitary member if needed and/or desired.

The output part36is configured to couple the second link20, the output member64, and the saver member68. The output part36and the output member64are pivotable relative to the base member12, the second link20, and the saver member68about the rotational axis RA2and the second pivot axis PA21. The second link20is pivotable relative to the base member12, the output part36, the output member64, and the saver member68about the rotational axis RA2and the second pivot axis PA21. The saver member68is pivotable relative to the base member12, the output part36, the output member64, and the second link20about the rotational axis RA2and the second pivot axis PA21.

As seen inFIG.13, the second biasing member62, the output member64, and the saver member68are configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the first link18in response to the first rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32. The first biasing member60, the output member64, and the saver member68are configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the second link20in response to the second rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32.

The output member64includes a first contact part70contactable with the saver member68. The saver member68includes a first additional contact part72contactable with the first contact part70of the output member64. The first contact part70includes a first contact surface70A contactable with the first additional contact part72. The first additional contact part72includes a first additional contact surface72A contactable with the first contact surface70A. The first contact surface70A faces in the first rotational direction D41. The first additional contact surface72A faces in the second rotational direction D42.

The first biasing member60is initially extended between the output member64and the saver member68in a state where the first contact part70is in contact with the first additional contact part72. Thus, the first contact part70is pressed against the first additional contact part72by first biasing force BF1of the first biasing member60.

The first contact part70is pressed against the first additional contact part72in response to a pivotal movement of the output member64in the first rotational direction D41. The first additional contact part72is pressed against the first contact part70in response to a pivotal movement of the saver member68in the second rotational direction D42. Thus, the saver member68is configured to pivot relative to the one of the base member12and the movable member14in the first rotational direction D41in response to a rotation of the output member64in the first rotational direction D41. The output member64is configured to pivot relative to the one of the base member12and the movable member14in the second rotational direction D42in response to a rotation of the saver member68in the second rotational direction D42.

The saver member68includes a second contact part74contactable with the second link20. The second link20includes a second additional contact part76contactable with the second contact part74of the saver member68. The second contact part74includes a second contact surface74A contactable with the second additional contact part76. The second additional contact part76includes a second additional contact surface76A contactable with the second contact surface74A. The second contact surface74A faces in the second rotational direction D42. The second additional contact surface76A faces in the first rotational direction D41.

The second biasing member62is initially extended between the first link18and the saver member68in a state where the second contact part74is in contact with the second additional contact part76. Thus, the second contact part74is pressed against the second additional contact part76by second biasing force BF2of the second biasing member62.

The second contact part74is pressed against the second additional contact part76in response to a pivotal movement of the saver member68in the second rotational direction D42. The second additional contact part76is pressed against the second contact part74in response to a pivotal movement of the second link20in the first rotational direction D41. Thus, the saver member68is configured to pivot relative to the one of the base member12and the movable member14in the first rotational direction D41in response to a rotation of the second link20in the first rotational direction D41. The second link20is configured to pivot relative to the one of the base member12and the movable member14in the second rotational direction D42in response to a rotation of the saver member68in the second rotational direction D42.

As seen inFIG.14, the first contact part70extends from the output lever64L along the second pivot axis PA21. The saver lever68L includes the first additional contact part72. The second contact part74extends from the saver lever68L along the second pivot axis PA21. The first lever39includes the second additional contact part76.

The output member64includes a first coupling part78. The first coupling part78includes a first coupling recess78A. The saver member68includes a second coupling part80. The second coupling part80includes second coupling recesses80A and80B. The first link18includes a third coupling part82.

As seen inFIG.13, the first biasing member60is coupled to the first coupling part78and the second coupling part80. The second biasing member62is coupled to the second coupling part80and the third coupling part82.

The first biasing member60includes a first end60A and a first opposite end60B. The first end60A of the first biasing member60is operatively coupled to the output part36of the electrical actuator32. In the first embodiment, the first end60A of the first biasing member60is coupled to the output member64. The first opposite end60B of the first biasing member60is coupled to the saver member68.

The first end60A of the first biasing member60is coupled to the first coupling part78of the output member64. The first end60A of the first biasing member60is provided in the first coupling recess78A of the first coupling part78. The first opposite end60B of the first biasing member60is coupled to the second coupling part80of the saver member68. The first opposite end60B of the first biasing member60is provided in the second coupling recess80A (see e.g.,FIG.14) of the second coupling part80.

As seen inFIG.13, the second biasing member62includes a second end62A and a second opposite end62B. The second end62A of the second biasing member62is coupled to the first link18. The second opposite end62B of the second biasing member62is coupled to the saver member68. The saver member68is coupled to the first biasing member60and the second biasing member62.

The second end62A of the second biasing member62is coupled to the third coupling part82of the first link18. The second opposite end62B of the second biasing member62is coupled to the second coupling part80of the saver member68. The second opposite end62B of the second biasing member62is provided in the second coupling recess80B (see e.g.,FIG.14) of the second coupling part80.

As seen inFIG.8, the derailleur RD comprises a third biasing member86. The third biasing member86is configured to apply third biasing force to at least one of the movable member14and the linkage16to move the movable member14relative to the base member12in one of the first direction D21and the second direction D22. In the first embodiment, the third biasing member86is configured to apply the third biasing force to the movable member14and the linkage16to move the movable member14relative to the base member12in the second direction D22. The third biasing member86is configured to apply the third biasing force to the movable member14and the linkage16to move the movable member14toward the second position P12in the second direction D22. However, the third biasing member86is configured to apply at least one of the third biasing force to the movable member14and the linkage16to move the movable member14relative to the base member12in the first direction D21if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.13, since the first contact part70is in contact with the first additional contact part72, the saver member68is rotated about the rotational axis RA2in the first rotational direction D41when the electrical actuator32rotates the output member64in the first rotational direction D41. Since the second biasing force BF2is greater than force necessary to shift the chain C, the first link18is pulled by the saver member68in the first direction D21while the initial state of the second biasing member62is maintained. Namely, the second biasing member62is configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the first link18in response to the first rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32in the first rotational direction D41. Thus, the chain C is shifted in the first direction D21(e.g., the inward direction D31in the first embodiment) relative to the rear sprocket assembly RS by a distance (e.g., a distance between adjacent two rear sprockets) corresponding to a rotational angle of the output part36of the electrical actuator32.

Since the first biasing force BF1is greater than force necessary to shift the chain C, the saver member68is rotated about the rotational axis RA2in the second rotational direction D42when the electrical actuator32rotates the output member64in the second rotational direction D42. Since the second contact part74is in contact with the second additional contact part76, the second link20is rotated about the second pivot axis PA21in the second rotational direction D42in response to the rotation of the saver member68in the second rotational direction D42. Namely, the first biasing member60is configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the second link20in response to the second rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32in the second rotational direction D42. Thus, the chain C is shifted in the second direction D22(e.g., the outward direction D32in the first embodiment) relative to the rear sprocket assembly RS by a distance (e.g., a distance between adjacent two rear sprockets) corresponding to a rotational angle of the output part36of the electrical actuator32.

FIG.15shows a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is moved from the first position P1(see e.g.,FIG.11) to the second position P12in the second direction D22in response to second external force EF2.FIG.16shows a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is moved from the second position P12(see e.g.,FIG.12) to the first position P1in the first direction D21in response to first external force EF1. Each of the first external force EF1and the second external force EF2is caused by contact of at least one of the movable member14, the linkage16, and other parts attached to the movable member14and/or the linkage16with an object provided on a road. Each of the first external force EF1and the second external force EF2does not include the actuating force AF1generated by the electrical actuator32. InFIGS.15and16, the chain guide24is omitted from the movable member14.

As seen inFIGS.12and16, the first biasing member60is configured to deform if the first external force EF1is applied to move the movable member14in the first direction D21. The first biasing member60is configured to elastically deform if the first external force EF1is applied to move the movable member14in the first direction D21. The first biasing member60is configured to elastically deform if the first external force EF1is applied to move the movable member14in the first direction D21. The first biasing member60is configured to deform if the first external force EF1is greater than a first threshold. If the first external force EF1is less than or equal to the first threshold, the first biasing member60is configured to return to an original state (e.g., the second position P12) which is a state of the first biasing member60before the first external force EF1is applied.

The first biasing member60is configured to defoim in response to first force F1which is caused by the first external force EF1and which is applied to the first biasing member60against the first biasing force BF1of the first biasing member60. The first biasing member60is configured to elastically deform in response to the first force F1which is caused by the first external force EF1and which is applied to the first biasing member60against the first biasing force BF1of the first biasing member60. The first force F1is greater than the first biasing force BF1.

In the first embodiment, the first biasing member60is configured to reduce the first external force EF1transmitted to the output part36. The first biasing member60is configured to reduce shock which is caused by the first external force EF1and which is transmitted to the output part36of the electrical actuator32. The first biasing member60is configured to allow the movable member14to move relative to the base member12in the first direction D21in response to the first external force EF1. The first biasing member60is configured to allow the movable member14to move relative to the base member12in the first direction D21in response to the first external force EF1while the output part36of the electrical actuator32is substantially stationary relative to the base member12.

The movable member14is stopped in the first position P1when the linkage16comes into contact with the first adjustment screw57of the adjustment structure56. The movable member14can be stopped in other positions provided between the first position P1and the second position P12.

InFIGS.12and16, the movable member14is moved relative to the base member12from the second position P12in the first direction D21in response to the first external force EF1. However, the movable member14can be moved from one of the intermediate positions P2to P11in the first direction D21in response to the first external force EF1when the first external force EF1is applied in a state where the movable member14is in the one of the intermediate positions P2to P11.

As seen inFIGS.11and15, the second biasing member62is configured to deform if the second external force EF2is applied to move the movable member14in the second direction D22. The second biasing member62is configured to elastically deform if the second external force EF2is applied to move the movable member14in the second direction D22. The second biasing member62is configured to elastically deform if the second external force EF2is applied to move the movable member14in the second direction D22. The second biasing member62is configured to deform if the second external force EF2is greater than a second threshold. If the second external force EF2is less than or equal to the second threshold, the second biasing member62is configured to return to an original state (e.g., the first position P1) which is a state of the second biasing member62before the second external force EF2is applied.

The second biasing member62is configured to deform in response to second force F2which is caused by the second external force EF2and which is applied to the second biasing member62against the second biasing force BF2of the second biasing member62. The second biasing member62is configured to elastically deform in response to the second force F2which is caused by the second external force EF2and which is applied to the second biasing member62against the second biasing force BF2of the second biasing member62. The second force F2is greater than the second biasing force BF2.

In the first embodiment, the second biasing member62is configured to reduce the second external force EF2transmitted to the output part36. The second biasing member62is configured to reduce shock which is caused by the second external force EF2and which is transmitted to the electrical actuator32. The second biasing member62is configured to allow the movable member14to move relative to the base member12in the second direction D22in response to the second external force EF2. The second biasing member62is configured to allow the movable member14to move relative to the base member12in the second direction D22in response to the second external force EF2while the output part36of the electrical actuator32is substantially stationary relative to the base member12.

The movable member14is stopped in the second position P12when the linkage16comes into contact with the second adjustment screw58of the adjustment structure56. The movable member14can be stopped in other positions provided between the second position P12and the second position P12.

InFIGS.11and15, the movable member14is moved relative to the base member12from the first position P1in the second direction D22in response to the second external force EF2. However, the movable member14can be moved from one of the intermediate positions P2to P11in the second direction D22in response to the second external force EF2when the second external force EF2is applied in a state where the movable member14is in the one of the intermediate positions P2to P11.

As seen inFIG.17, the derailleur FD for the human-powered vehicle2comprises a base member112, a movable member114, and a linkage116. The base member112is configured to be attached to the vehicle body2A of the human-powered vehicle2. The movable member114is configured to be movable relative to the base member112. The linkage116is configured to movably connect the movable member114to the base member112.

The linkage116has substantially the same structure as the structure of the linkage16of the derailleur RD. The linkage116includes a first link118. The first link118has substantially the same structure as the structure of the first link18of the derailleur RD. The first link118is pivotally coupled to the base member112about a first pivot axis PA51and is pivotally coupled to the movable member114about a first additional pivot axis PA52. The first additional pivot axis PA52is offset from the first pivot axis PA51. The first additional pivot axis PA52is parallel to the first pivot axis PA51. However, the first additional pivot axis PA52can be non-parallel to the first pivot axis PA51if needed and/or desired.

The linkage116includes a second link120. The second link120has substantially the same structure as the structure of the second link20of the derailleur RD. The second link120is pivotally coupled to the base member112about a second pivot axis PA61and is pivotally coupled to the movable member114about a second additional pivot axis PA62. The second additional pivot axis PA62is offset from the second pivot axis PA61. The second additional pivot axis PA62is parallel to the second pivot axis PA61. However, the second additional pivot axis PA62can be non-parallel to the second pivot axis PA61if needed and/or desired.

The movable member114includes a chain guide124. The movable member114can include a movable body such as the movable body22of the derailleur RD if needed and/or desired. The chain guide124is configured to be engaged with the chain C. The chain guide124is configured to shift the chain C relative to the base member112. The linkage116is configured to movably connect the chain guide124to the base member112. The first link118is pivotally coupled to the chain guide124about the first additional pivot axis PA52. The second link120is pivotally coupled to the chain guide124about the second additional pivot axis PA62.

The derailleur FD for the human-powered vehicle2comprises an electrical actuator132. The electrical actuator132has substantially the same structure as the structure of the electrical actuator32of the derailleur RD. The electrical actuator132is configured to operatively move the movable member114relative to the base member112. The electrical actuator132is configured to generate actuating force AF2to move the movable member114relative to the base member112. The electrical actuator132is attached to the base member112. The electrical actuator132includes an actuator casing134. The actuator casing134is secured to the base member112. However, the electrical actuator132can be attached to members (e.g., the movable member114or the linkage116) other than the base member112if needed and/or desired.

The electrical actuator132includes an output part136. The output part136has substantially the same structure as the structure of the output part36of the derailleur RD. The output part136is rotatable relative to the actuator casing134about a rotational axis RA5. The output part136is configured to rotate relative to the actuator casing134about the rotational axis RA5to output the actuating force AF2. The output part136has substantially the same structure as the structure of the output part36of the derailleur RD.

The second link120is pivotally coupled to the output part136about the rotational axis RA5. The second link120is pivotally coupled to the base member112via the output part136about the rotational axis RA5. Namely, the second pivot axis PA61is coincident with the rotational axis RA5. However, the second pivot axis PA61can be offset from the rotational axis RA5if needed and/or desired.

Since the linkage116has substantially the same structure as the structure of the linkage16of the derailleur RD, the description regarding the linkage16of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the linkage116by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “14,” “16,” “20,” “39” “40,” “42,” “12A,” “12B,” “P1,” “P12,” “D21,” “D22,” “RA2,” “PA11,” “PA12,” “PA21,” and “PA22” with “112,” “114,” “116,” “120,” “139,” “140,” “142,” “112A,” “112B,” “P51,” “P52,” “D51,” “D52,” “RA5,” “PA51,” “PA52,” “PA61,” and “PA62.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

Since the electrical actuator132has substantially the same structure as the structure of the electrical actuator32of the derailleur RD,FIG.9can be utilize to describe the structure of the electrical actuator132. As seen inFIG.9, the electrical actuator132includes a motor150and a gear structure152. Since the electrical actuator132has substantially the same structure as the structure of the electrical actuator32of the derailleur RD, the description regarding the electrical actuator32of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the electrical actuator132by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “14,” “16,” “32,” “34,” “36,” “50,” “50A,” “52,” “54,” “AF1,” “G1,” “G2,” “G3,” “G4,” “G5,” “G6,” “G7,” and “54G” with “112,” “114,” “116,” “132,” “134,” “136,” “150,” “150A,” “152,” “154,” “AF2,” “G11,” “G12,” “G13,” “G14,” “G15,” “G16,” “G17,” and “154G.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIG.17, the movable member114is configured to be movable relative to the base member112in a first direction D51and a second direction D52different from the first direction D51. The electrical actuator132is configured to operatively move the movable member114relative to the base member112in the first direction D51and the second direction D52. In the first embodiment, the second direction D52is an opposite direction of the first direction D51and is parallel to the first direction D51. However, the second direction D52can be other directions different from the first direction D51if needed and/or desired. For example, the second direction D52can be inclined relative to the first direction D51if needed and/or desired.

The movable member114is movable relative to the base member112in the inward direction D61toward the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. The movable member114is movable relative to the base member112in the outward direction D62away from the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. The outward direction D62is an opposite direction of the inward direction D61. The first direction D51includes the inward direction D61. The second direction D52includes the outward direction D62. More specifically, the first direction D51is the inward direction D61. The second direction D52is the outward direction D62. The first direction D51and the second direction D52are perpendicular to the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A. However, the first direction D51can include the outward direction D62, and the second direction D52can include the inward direction D61. At least one of the first direction D51and the second direction D52can be non-perpendicular to the transverse center plane CP of the vehicle body2A if needed and/or desired.

The movable member114is movable relative to the base member112between a first position P51and a second position P52. The first position P51is closer to the transverse center plane CP than the second position P52. The movable member114is moved relative to the base member112from the second position P52to the first position P51in the first direction D51or the inward direction D61. The movable member114is moved relative to the base member112from the first position P51to the second position P52in the second direction D52or the outward direction D62. However, the second position P52can be closer to the transverse center plane CP than the first position P51if needed and/or desired.

The first position P51corresponds to a smallest sprocket FS1of the front sprocket assembly FS (see e.g.,FIG.2). The second position P52corresponds to a largest sprocket FS2of the front sprocket assembly FS (see e.g.,FIG.2). The first position P51corresponds to an innermost position and/or a low gear position. The second position P52corresponds to an outermost position and/or a top gear position. The first position P51can also be referred to as an innermost end position P51or a low-gear position P51. The second position P52can also be referred to as an outermost end position P52or a top-gear position P52. At least one intermediate position can be provided between the first position P51and the second position P52.

The electrical actuator132is configured to move the movable member114in the first direction D51or the inward direction D61in response to the second control signal CS21(see e.g.,FIG.3). The electrical actuator132is configured to move the movable member114in the second direction D52or the outward direction D62in response to the second additional control signal CS22(see e.g.,FIG.3).

FIG.18shows a state of the derailleur FD in which the movable member114is in the first position P51.FIG.19shows a state of the derailleur FD in which the movable member114is in the second position P52.

As seen inFIGS.18and19, the derailleur FD includes an adjustment structure156. The adjustment structure156has substantially the same structure as the structure of the adjustment structure56of the derailleur RD. The adjustment structure156includes a first adjustment screw157and a second adjustment screw158. The base member112includes a first threaded hole112A and a second threaded hole112B. The description regarding the adjustment structure56of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the adjustment structure156by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “14,” “20,” “56,” “57,” “58,” “12A,” “12B,” “P1,” “P12,” “D21,” “D22,” “57A,” and “58A” with “112,” “114,” “120,” “156,” “157,” “158,” “112A,” “112B,” “P51,” “P52,” “D51,” “D52,” “157A,” and “158A.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIGS.18and19, the derailleur FD for the human-powered vehicle2comprises a first biasing member160and a second biasing member162. The second biasing member162is a separate member from the first biasing member160. The first biasing member160has substantially the same structure as the structure of the first biasing member60of the derailleur RD. The second biasing member162has substantially the same structure as the structure of the second biasing member62of the derailleur RD.

The electrical actuator132is configured to move the movable member114in the first direction D51via the second biasing member162if the output part136of the electrical actuator132rotates in a first rotational direction D71. The second biasing member162is configured to transmit the actuating force AF2to the first link118in response to a first rotation of the output part136of the electrical actuator132in the first rotational direction D71. The movable member114is configured to move relative to the base member112in the first direction D51in response to the actuating force AF2transmitted from the output part136of the electrical actuator132via the second biasing member162.

The electrical actuator132is configured to move the movable member114in the second direction D52via the first biasing member160if the output part136of the electrical actuator132rotates in a second rotational direction D72which is an opposite direction of the first rotational direction D71. The first biasing member160is configured to transmit the actuating force AF2to the second link120in response to a second rotation of the output part136of the electrical actuator132in the second rotational direction D72. The movable member114is configured to move relative to the base member112in the second direction D52in response to the actuating force AF2transmitted from the output part136of the electrical actuator132via the first biasing member160.

As seen inFIG.18, the output part136is configured to be operatively coupled to the movable member114to move the movable member114relative to the base member112. The derailleur FD further comprises an output member164. The output member164has substantially the same structure as the structure of the output member64of the derailleur RD. The output member164is coupled to the output part136of the electrical actuator132to rotate along with the output part136. The output member164is rotatable relative to the actuator casing134about the rotational axis RA5along with the output part136of the electrical actuator132. The description regarding the output member64of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the output member164by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “14,” “32,” “36,” “64,” “64A,” “64L,” “AF1,” “D41,” “D42,” and “RA2” with “112,” “114,” “132,” “136,” “164,” “164A,” “164L,” “AF2,” “D71,” “D72,” and “RA5.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIG.18, the derailleur FD further comprises a saver member168. The saver member168has substantially the same structure as the structure of the saver member68of the derailleur RD. The saver member168is pivotally coupled to at least one of the base member112, the movable member114, the linkage116, and the electrical actuator132. In the first embodiment, the saver member168is pivotally coupled to the base member112through the output part136of the electrical actuator132. The saver member168is pivotally coupled to the output part136of the electrical actuator132. The saver member168is pivotable relative to the output part136of the electrical actuator132about the rotational axis RA5. The description regarding the saver member68of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the saver member168by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “20,” “32,” “36,” “38,” “64,” “68,” “68A,” “68L,” “69,” “69A,” “PA21,” and “RA2” with “112,” “120,” “132,” “136,” “138,” “164,” “168,” “168A,” “168L,” “169,” “169A,” “PA61,” and “RA5.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIG.20, the second biasing member162, the output member164, and the saver member168are configured to transmit the actuating force AF2to the first link118in response to the first rotation of the output part136of the electrical actuator132. The first biasing member160, the output member164, and the saver member168are configured to transmit the actuating force AF2to the second link120in response to the second rotation of the output part136of the electrical actuator132.

The output member164includes a first contact part170contactable with the saver member168. The saver member168includes a first additional contact part172contactable with the first contact part170of the output member164. The saver member168includes a second contact part174contactable with the second link120. The second link120includes a second additional contact part176contactable with the second contact part174of the saver member168.

The first contact part170, the first additional contact part172, the second contact part174, and the second additional contact part176have substantially the same structures as the structures of the first contact part70, the first additional contact part72, the second contact part74, and the second additional contact part76of the derailleur RD. Thus, the description regarding the first contact part70, the first additional contact part72, the second contact part74, and the second additional contact part76can be utilized to describe the first contact part170, the first additional contact part172, the second contact part174, and the second additional contact part176by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “14,” “20,” “64,” “68,” “70,” “70A,” “72,” “72A,” “74,” “74A,” “76,” “76A,” “D41,” and “D42” with “112,” “114,” “120,” “164,” “168,” “170,” “170A,” “172,” “172A,” “174,” “174A,” “176,” “176A,” “D71,” and “D72.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

Since the linkage116, the output member164, and the saver member168have substantially the same structures as the structures of the linkage16, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD,FIG.14can be utilize to describe the linkage116, the output member164, and the saver member168. The description regarding the linkage16, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the linkage116, the output member164, and the saver member168by replacing the reference numerals “16,” “18,” “32,” “36,” “39,” “60,” “60A,” “60B,” “62,” “62A,” “62B,” “64” “64L,” “68” “68L,” “70” “72,” “74,” “76,” “78,” “80”80A,” “80B,” “82,” and “PA21” with “116,” “118,” “132,” “136,” “139,” “160,” “160A,” “160B,” “162,” “162A,” “162B,” “164,” “164L,” “168,” “168L,” “170,” “172,” “174,” “176,” “178,” “180,”180A,” “180B,” “182,” and “PA61.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

The second link120, the first biasing member160, the second biasing member162, the third biasing member186, the output member164, and the saver member168have substantially the same structures as the structures of the second link20, the first biasing member60, the second biasing member62, the third biasing member86, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD. The description regarding the second link20, the first biasing member60, the second biasing member62, the third biasing member86, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the second link120, the first biasing member160, the second biasing member162, the third biasing member186, the output member164, and the saver member168by replacing the reference numerals “12,” “14,” “16,” “18,” “32,” “36,” “39,” “60,” “60A,” “60B,” “62,” “62A,” “62B,” “64,” “64L,” “68” “68L,” “70” “72,” “74,” “76,” “78,” “78A,” “80,” “80A,” “80B,” “86,” “D21,” “D22,” “RD,” “P12,” and “PA21” with “112,” “114,” “116,” “118,” “132,” “136,” “139,” “160,” “160A,” “160B,” “162,” “162A,” “162B,” “164,” “164L,” “168,” “168L,” “170,” “172,” “174,” “176,” “178,” “178A,” “180,” “180A,” “180B,” “186,” “D51,” “D52,” “FD,” “P52,” and “PA61.” Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

FIG.21shows a state of the derailleur FD in which the movable member114is moved from the first position P51(see e.g.,FIG.18) to the second position P52in the second direction D52in response to second external force EF52.FIG.22shows a state of the derailleur FD in which the movable member114is moved from the second position P52(see e.g.,FIG.19) to the first position P51in the first direction D51in response to first external force EF51. Each of the first external force EF51and the second external force EF52is caused by contact of at least one of the movable member114and the linkage116with an object provided on a road. InFIGS.21and22, the chain guide124is omitted from the movable member114.

As seen inFIGS.19and22, the first biasing member160is configured to deform if the first external force EF51is applied to move the movable member114in the first direction D51. The first biasing member160is configured to elastically deform if the first external force EF51is applied to move the movable member114in the first direction D51. The first biasing member160is configured to elastically deform if the first external force EF51is applied to move the movable member114in the first direction D51. The first biasing member160is configured to deform if the first external force EF51is greater than a first threshold. If the first external force EF51is less than or equal to the first threshold, the first biasing member160is configured to return to an original state (e.g., the second position P52) which is a state of the first biasing member160before the first external force EF51is applied.

The first biasing member160is configured to deform in response to first force F51which is caused by the first external force EF51and which is applied to the first biasing member160against first biasing force BF51of the first biasing member160. The first biasing member160is configured to elastically deform in response to the first force F51which is caused by the first external force EF51and which is applied to the first biasing member160against the first biasing force BF51of the first biasing member160. The first force F51is greater than the first biasing force BF51.

In the first embodiment, the first biasing member160is configured to reduce the first external force EF51transmitted to the output part136. The first biasing member160is configured to reduce shock which is caused by the first external force EF51and which is transmitted to the electrical actuator132. The first biasing member160is configured to allow the movable member114to move relative to the base member112in the first direction D51in response to the first external force EF51. The first biasing member160is configured to allow the movable member114to move relative to the base member112in the first direction D51in response to the first external force EF51while the output part136of the electrical actuator132is substantially stationary relative to the base member112.

The movable member114is stopped in the first position P51when the linkage116comes into contact with the first adjustment screw157of the adjustment structure156. The movable member114can be stopped in other positions provided between the first position P51and the second position P52.

As seen inFIGS.18and21, the second biasing member162is configured to deform if the second external force EF52is applied to move the movable member114in the second direction D52. The second biasing member162is configured to elastically deform if the second external force EF52is applied to move the movable member114in the second direction D52. The second biasing member162is configured to elastically deform if the second external force EF52is applied to at least one of the movable member114and the linkage116to move the movable member114in the second direction D52. The second biasing member162is configured to deform if the second external force EF52is greater than a second threshold. If the second external force EF52is less than or equal to the second threshold, the second biasing member162is configured to return to an original state (e.g., the first position P51) which is a state of the second biasing member162before the second external force EF52is applied.

The second biasing member162is configured to deform in response to second force F52which is caused by the second external force EF52and which is applied to the second biasing member162against second biasing force BF52of the second biasing member162. The second biasing member162is configured to elastically deform in response to the second force F52which is caused by the second external force EF52and which is applied to the second biasing member162against the second biasing force BF52of the second biasing member162. The second force F52is greater than the second biasing force BF52.

In the first embodiment, the second biasing member162is configured to reduce the second external force EF52transmitted to the output part136. The second biasing member162is configured to reduce shock which is caused by the second external force EF52and which is transmitted to the electrical actuator132. The second biasing member162is configured to allow the movable member114to move relative to the base member112in the second direction D52in response to the second external force EF52. The second biasing member162is configured to allow the movable member114to move relative to the base member112in the second direction D52in response to the second external force EF52while the output part136of the electrical actuator132is substantially stationary relative to the base member112.

The movable member114is stopped in the second position P52when the linkage116comes into contact with the second adjustment screw158of the adjustment structure156. The movable member114can be stopped in other positions provided between the second position P52and the second position P52.

As seen inFIG.3, the derailleur RD includes a position sensor88and a motor driver90. The electrical actuator32is electrically connected to the position sensor88and the motor driver90. The position sensor88is configured to sense a current gear position of the derailleur RD (e.g., a current position of the movable member14). Examples of the position sensor88include a potentiometer and a rotary encoder. The position sensor88is configured to sense an absolute rotational position of the output part36of the electrical actuator32as the current gear position of the derailleur RD. The motor driver90is configured to control the electrical actuator32based on the current gear position sensed by the position sensor88.

In the first embodiment, the position sensor88includes a position detector88A and a sensing object88B. The sensing object88B is attached to one of the first to seventh gears G1to G7(see e.g.,FIG.9) to rotate along with the one of the first to seventh gears G1to G7(see e.g.,FIG.9). The position detector88A is configured to detect a rotational position of the sensing object88B to detect the position of the movable member14. Examples of the position detector88A include an optical position detector and a magnetic position detector. Examples of the sensing object88B include a disk having a plurality of slits and a magnet having a plurality of magnetic poles. However, the structure of the position sensor88is not limited to the above embodiment and the examples.

The derailleur RD comprises a controller92and a communicator94. In the first embodiment, the controller92and the communicator94are configured to be mounted to the electrical actuator32. However, at least one of the controller92can be mounted to another member (e.g., the movable member14or the linkage16) of the derailleur RD or another device such as the operating device3, the operating device4, the derailleur FD, the electric power source PS, and the wired communication structure WS.

The controller92is configured to be electrically connected to the derailleur FD and the electric power source PS with the wired communication structure WS. The communicator94is configured to be communicate with the operating device3, the operating device4, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS. The controller92is configured to control the derailleur RD based on the first control signal CS11and the first additional control signal CS12. The controller92is configured to control the derailleur FD based on the second control signal CS21and the second additional control signal CS22.

In the first embodiment, the controller92is configured to control the electrical actuator32to move the movable member14in the inward direction D31(see e.g.,FIG.10) in response to the first control signal CS11. The controller92is configured to control the electrical actuator32to move the movable member14in the outward direction D32(see e.g.,FIG.10) in response to the first additional control signal CS12.

The controller92is configured to control the electrical actuator132to move the movable member114in the inward direction D61(see e.g.,FIG.17) in response to the second control signal CS21. The controller92is configured to control the electrical actuator132to move the movable member114in the outward direction D62(see e.g.,FIG.17) in response to the second additional control signal CS22.

The communicator94includes a wireless communicator WC3configured to establish a wireless communication channel. The wireless communicator WC3is configured to communicate with the operating device3and the operating device4via the wireless communication channel. The wireless communicator WC3is configured to wirelessly receive the first control signal CS11, the first additional control signal CS12, the second control signal CS21, and the second additional control signal CS22.

The controller92includes a processor92P, a memory92M, a circuit board92C, and a system bus92D. The processor92P and the memory92M are electrically mounted on the circuit board92C. The processor92P includes a central processing unit (CPU) and a memory controller. The memory92M is electrically connected to the processor92P. The memory92M includes a read only memory (ROM) and a random-access memory (RAM). The memory92M includes storage areas each having an address in the ROM and the RAM. The processor92P is configured to control the memory92M to store data in the storage areas of the memory92M and reads data from the storage areas of the memory92M. The memory92M (e.g., the ROM) stores a program. The program is read into the processor92P, and thereby the configuration and/or algorithm of the controller92is performed.

The wireless communicator WC3is electrically mounted on the circuit board92C. The circuit board92C is secured to the actuator casing34(see e.g.,FIG.8). The wireless communicator WC3is electrically connected to the processor92P and the memory92M with the circuit board92C and the system bus92D. The wireless communicator WC3includes a signal transmitting circuit or circuitry, a signal receiving circuit or circuitry, and an antenna. Thus, the wireless communicator WC3can also be referred to as a wireless communicator circuit or circuitry WC3.

The wireless communicator WC3is configured to superimpose digital signals on carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to wirelessly transmit a control signal. In the first embodiment, the wireless communicator WC3is configured to encrypt a control signal using a cryptographic key to generate encrypted wireless signals.

The wireless communicator WC3is configured to receives a wireless signal via the antenna. In the first embodiment, the wireless communicator WC3is configured to decode the wireless signal to recognize the first control signal CS11, the first additional control signal CS12, the second control signal CS21, and/or the second additional control signal CS22which are wirelessly transmitted from the operating device3and/or the operating device4. The wireless communicator WC3is configured to decrypt the wireless signal using the cryptographic key.

As seen inFIG.3, the operating device3includes a first wireless communicator WC1configured to wirelessly transmit the first control signal CS11and the first additional control signal CS12. The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to wirelessly receive information. The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to be electrically connected to the first electrical switch SW11to transmit the first control signal CS11in response to the first user input U11. The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to be electrically connected to the first additional electrical switch SW12to transmit the first additional control signal CS12in response to the first additional user input U12.

The operating device3includes a first processor3P, a first memory3M, a first circuit board3C, and a first system bus3D. The first processor3P and the first memory3M are electrically mounted on the first circuit board3C. The first processor3P includes a CPU and a memory controller. The first memory3M is electrically connected to the first processor3P. The first memory3M includes a ROM and a RAM. The first memory3M includes storage areas each having an address in the ROM and the RAM. The first processor3P is configured to control the first memory3M to store data in the storage areas of the first memory3M and reads data from the storage areas of the first memory3M. The first circuit board3C, the first electrical switch SW11, and the first additional electrical switch SW12are electrically connected to the first system bus3D. The first electrical switch SW11and the first additional electrical switch SW12are electrically connected to the first processor3P and the first memory3M with the first circuit board3C and the first system bus3D. The first memory3M (e.g., the ROM) stores a program. The program is read into the first processor3P, and thereby the configuration and/or algorithm of the operating device3is performed.

The first wireless communicator WC1is electrically mounted on the first circuit board3C. The first wireless communicator WC1is electrically connected to the first processor3P and the first memory3M with the first circuit board3C and the first system bus3D. The first wireless communicator WC1includes a signal transmitting circuit, a signal receiving circuit, and an antenna. Thus, the first wireless communicator WC1can also be referred to as a first wireless communication circuit WC1.

The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to superimpose digital signals such as the first control signal CS11and the first additional control signal CS12on carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to wirelessly transmit the first control signal CS11and the first additional control signal CS12. In the first embodiment, the first wireless communicator WC1is configured to encrypt a control signal (e.g., the first control signal CS11or the first additional control signal CS12) using a cryptographic key to generate encrypted wireless signals.

The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to receives a wireless signal via the antenna. In the first embodiment, the first wireless communicator WC1is configured to decode the wireless signal to recognize signals and/or information wirelessly transmitted from another wireless communicator. The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to decrypt the wireless signal using the cryptographic key.

The operating device3includes a first electric power source3E. The first electric power source3E is configured to supply electricity to the operating device3. The first electric power source3E is configured to be electrically connected to the operating device3. In the first embodiment, the first electric power source3E includes a first battery and a first battery holder. The first battery includes a replaceable and/or rechargeable battery. The first battery holder is configured to be electrically connected to the operating device3via the first circuit board3C and the first system bus3D. The first battery is configured to be detachably attached to the first battery holder. However, the first electric power source3E is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, the first electric power source3E can include another component such as a capacitor and an electricity generation element (e.g., a piezoelectric element) instead of or in addition to the first battery and the first battery holder.

As seen inFIG.3, the operating device4includes a second wireless communicator WC2configured to wirelessly transmit the second control signal CS21and the second additional control signal CS22. The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to wirelessly receive information. The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to be electrically connected to the second electrical switch SW21to transmit the second control signal CS21in response to the second user input U21. The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to be electrically connected to the second additional electrical switch SW22to transmit the second additional control signal CS22in response to the second additional user input U22.

The operating device4includes a second processor4P, a second memory4M, a second circuit board4C, and a second system bus4D. The second processor4P and the second memory4M are electrically mounted on the second circuit board4C. The second processor4P includes a CPU and a memory controller. The second memory4M is electrically connected to the second processor4P. The second memory4M includes a ROM and a RAM. The second memory4M includes storage areas each having an address in the ROM and the RAM. The second processor4P is configured to control the second memory4M to store data in the storage areas of the second memory4M and reads data from the storage areas of the second memory4M. The second circuit board4C, the second electrical switch SW21, and the second additional electrical switch SW22are electrically connected to the second system bus4D. The second electrical switch SW21and the second additional electrical switch SW22are electrically connected to the second processor4P and the second memory4M with the second circuit board4C and the second system bus4D. The second memory4M (e.g., the ROM) stores a program. The program is read into the second processor4P, and thereby the configuration and/or algorithm of the operating device4is performed.

The second wireless communicator WC2is electrically mounted on the second circuit board4C. The second wireless communicator WC2is electrically connected to the second processor4P and the second memory4M with the second circuit board4C and the second system bus4D. The second wireless communicator WC2includes a signal transmitting circuit, a signal receiving circuit, and an antenna. Thus, the second wireless communicator WC2can also be referred to as a second wireless communication circuit WC2.

The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to superimpose digital signals such as the second control signal CS21and the second additional control signal CS22on carrier wave using a predetermined wireless communication protocol to wirelessly transmit the second control signal CS21and the second additional control signal CS22. In the first embodiment, the second wireless communicator WC2is configured to encrypt a control signal (e.g., the second control signal CS21or the second additional control signal CS22) using a cryptographic key to generate encrypted wireless signals.

The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to receives a wireless signal via the antenna. In the first embodiment, the second wireless communicator WC2is configured to decode the wireless signal to recognize signals and/or information wirelessly transmitted from another wireless communicator. The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to decrypt the wireless signal using the cryptographic key.

The operating device4includes a second electric power source4E. The second electric power source4E is configured to supply electricity to the operating device4. The second electric power source4E is configured to be electrically connected to the operating device4. In the first embodiment, the second electric power source4E includes a second battery and a second battery holder. The second battery includes a replaceable and/or rechargeable battery. The second battery holder is configured to be electrically connected to the operating device4via the second circuit board4C and the second system bus4D. The second battery is configured to be detachably attached to the second battery holder. However, the second electric power source4E is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, the second electric power source4E can include another component such as a capacitor and an electricity generation element (e.g., a piezoelectric element) instead of or in addition to the second battery and the second battery holder.

Each of the derailleur RD, the operating device3, and the operating device4has a pairing mode. In the pairing mode, the wireless communicator WC3and the first wireless communicator WC1are configured to establish the wireless communication channel between the wireless communicator WC3and the first wireless communicator WC1. In the pairing mode, the wireless communicator WC3and the second wireless communicator WC2are configured to establish the wireless communication channel between the wireless communicator WC3and the second wireless communicator WC2. Each of the derailleur RD, the operating device3, and the operating device4is configured to store unique identifying information.

In the pairing mode of the derailleur RD, the wireless communicator WC3is configured to transmit identifying information indicating the derailleur RD to the first wireless communicator WC1and/or configured to receive first identifying information indicating the operating device3. In the pairing mode of the derailleur RD, the wireless communicator WC3is configured to transmit the identifying information indicating the derailleur RD to the second wireless communicator WC2and/or configured to receive second identifying information indicating the operating device4.

In the pairing mode of the operating device3, the first wireless communicator WC1is configured to transmit the first identifying information indicating the operating device3to the wireless communicator WC3and/or configured to receive the identifying information indicating the derailleur RD. In the pairing mode of the operating device4, the second wireless communicator WC2is configured to transmit the second identifying information indicating the operating device4to the wireless communicator WC3and/or configured to receive the identifying information indicating the derailleur RD.

The wireless communicator WC3is configured to recognize signals transmitted from the first wireless communicator WC1based on the identifying information and/or the first identifying information. The wireless communicator WC3is configured to recognize signals transmitted from the second wireless communicator WC2based on the identifying information and/or the second identifying information.

The first wireless communicator WC1is configured to recognize signals transmitted from the wireless communicator WC3based on the identifying information and/or the first identifying information. The second wireless communicator WC2is configured to recognize signals transmitted from the wireless communicator WC3based on the identifying information and/or the second identifying information.

As seen inFIG.3, the derailleur FD includes a position sensor188and a motor driver190. The electrical actuator132is electrically connected to the position sensor188and the motor driver190. The position sensor188is configured to sense a current gear position of the derailleur FD (e.g., a current position of the movable member14). Examples of the position sensor188include a potentiometer and a rotary encoder. The position sensor188is configured to sense an absolute rotational position of the output part36of the electrical actuator132as the current gear position of the derailleur FD. The motor driver190is configured to control the electrical actuator132based on the current gear position sensed by the position sensor188.

In the first embodiment, the position sensor188includes a position detector188A and a sensing object188B. The sensing object188B is attached to one of the first to seventh gears G11to G17(see e.g.,FIG.9) to rotate along with the one of the first to seventh gears G11to G17(see e.g.,FIG.9). The position detector188A is configured to detect a rotational position of the sensing object188B to detect the position of the movable member14. Examples of the position detector188A include an optical position detector and a magnetic position detector. Examples of the sensing object188B include a disk having a plurality of slits and a magnet having a plurality of magnetic poles. However, the structure of the position sensor188is not limited to the above embodiment and the examples.

As seen inFIG.3, the controller92is configured to generate a first control command CC11based on the first control signal CS11. The controller92is configured to generate a first additional control command CC12based on the first additional control signal CS12. The controller92is configured to generate a second control command CC21based on the second control signal CS21. The controller92is configured to generate a second additional control command CC22based on the second additional control signal CS22.

The first control signal CS11, the first additional control signal CS12, the second control signal CS21, and the second additional control signal CS22are distinguishable from each other. The first control command CC11, the first additional control command CC12, the second control command CC21, and the second additional control command CC22are distinguishable from each other.

In the first embodiment, the first control signal CS11and the first control command CC11indicate downshifting of the derailleur RD. The first additional control signal CS12and the first additional control command CC12indicate upshifting of the derailleur RD. The second control signal CS21and the second control command CC21indicate upshifting of the derailleur FD. The second additional control signal CS22and the second additional control command CC22indicate downshifting of the derailleur FD.

As seen inFIG.3, the motor driver90is configured to control the electrical actuator32based on the first control command CC11and the first additional control command CC12generated by the controller92. The motor driver90is configured to control the electrical actuator32to move the movable member14relative to the base member12by one gear position in the first direction D21based on the first control command CC11and the current gear position sensed by the position sensor88. The motor driver90is configured to control the electrical actuator32to move the movable member14relative to the base member12by one gear position in the second direction D22based on the first additional control command CC12and the current gear position sensed by the position sensor88.

The motor driver190is configured to control the electrical actuator132based on the second control command CC21and the second additional control command CC22generated by the controller92. The motor driver190is configured to control the electrical actuator132to move the movable member114relative to the base member112by one gear position in the first direction D51based on the second control command CC21and the current gear position sensed by the position sensor188. The motor driver190is configured to control the electrical actuator132to move the movable member114relative to the base member112by one gear position in the second direction D52based on the second additional control command CC22and the current gear position sensed by the position sensor188.

As seen inFIG.3, the controller92, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS communicate with each other via the wired communication structure WS using power line communication (PLC) technology. More specifically, each of the electric cables of the wired communication structure WS includes a ground line and a voltage line that are detachably connected to a serial bus that is formed by communication interfaces. In the first embodiment, the controller92, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS can all communicate with each other through the voltage line using the PLC technology.

The second control command CC21and the second additional control command CC22are transmitted from the controller92to the derailleur FD through the wired communication structure WS. However, the derailleur FD can include a wireless communicator configured to wirelessly receive the second control signal CS21and the second additional control signal CS22. In such embodiment, the electric power source PS and the wired communication structure WS can be omitted from the human-powered vehicle2. Instead, each of the derailleur RD and the derailleur FD can include a battery.

The PLC technology is used for communicating between electric components. The PLC carries data on a conductor that is also used simultaneously for electric power transmission or electric power distribution to the electric components. In the first embodiment, electricity is supplied from the electric power source PS to the derailleur RD and the derailleur FD via the wired communication structure WS. Furthermore, the controller92can receive information signals from the derailleur RD, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS through the wired communication structure WS using the PLC.

The PLC uses unique identifying information such as a unique identifier that is assigned to each of the derailleur RD, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS. Each of the derailleur RD, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS is configured to store the identifying information. Based on the identifying information, each of the derailleur RD, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS is configured to recognize, based on the identifying information, information signals which are necessary for itself among information signals transmitted via the wired communication structure WS. For example, the controller92is configured to recognize information signals transmitted from the derailleur RD, the derailleur FD, and the electric power source PS with the wired communication structure WS. Instead of using the PLC technology, however, separate signal wires can be provided for transmitting data in addition to the ground wire and the voltage wire if needed and/or desired.

The communicator94includes a wired communicator PC1configured to establish a wired communication channel such as the PLC. The wired communicator PC1is electrically mounted on the circuit board92C. The wired communicator PC1is connected to the wired communication structure WS, the derailleur RD, and the system bus92D. The wired communicator PC1is configured to separate input signals to a power source voltage and control signals. The wired communicator PC1is configured to regulate the power source voltage to a level at which the controller92and the derailleur RD can properly operate. The wired communicator PC1is further configured to superimpose output signals such as the second control command CC21and the second additional control command CC22on the power source voltage applied to the wired communication structure WS from the electric power source PS.

The derailleur FD includes a wired communicator PC2. The electric power source PS includes a wired communicator PC3. The operating device3includes a wired communicator PC4. The operating device4includes a wired communicator PC5. The wired communicators PC1, PC2, PC3, PC4, and PC5are configured to communicate with each other using the PLC. The wired communicators PC2, PC3, PC4, and PC5have substantially the same structure as the structure of the wired communicator PC1. Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

The derailleur RD includes a cable connector CN1to which an electric cable (e.g., the electric cable EC1) of the wired communication structure WS is detachably connected. The cable connector CN1is configured to be electrically connected to the controller92and the wired communicator PC1. The controller92is configured to receive electricity from the electric power source PS via the cable connector CN1and the wired communicator PC1. In the first embodiment, the cable connector CN1is provided to the actuator casing34. However, the cable connector CN1can be provided to another member such as the base member12, the movable member14, and the linkage16if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.8, the cable connector CN1is provided on the actuator casing34of the electrical actuator32. The electrical actuator32is configured to be electrically connected with the operating device3via the electric cable EC1. The cable connector CN1is configured to receive electricity supplied from the electric power source PS via the electric cable EC1. However, the cable connector CN1can be configured to receive electricity supplied from an electric power source directly mounted to the derailleur RD if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.3, the controller92is configured to detect that an electric cable is connected to the cable connector CN1. For example, the controller92is configured to automatically execute the pairing operation of the wireless communicator WC3in response to the connection between the electric cable and the cable connector CN1if the wireless communicator WC3has not been paired with another wireless communicator. The controller92can be configured to execute the pairing operation in response to anther input.

The derailleur FD includes a cable connector CN2to which an electric cable (e.g., the electric cable EC2) of the wired communication structure WS is detachably connected. The cable connector CN2is configured to be electrically connected to the wired communicator PC2. The electrical actuator132, the wired communicator PC2, and the motor driver190are configured to receive electricity from the electric power source PS via the cable connector CN2and the wired communicator PC2. In the first embodiment, the cable connector CN2has substantially the same structure as the structure of the cable connector CN1of the derailleur RD. The cable connector CN2is provided to the actuator casing134. However, the cable connector CN2can be provided to another member such as the base member112, the movable member114, and the linkage116if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.3, the operating device3is configured to select the first wireless communicator WC1if the wired communicator PC4is not electrically connected to the wired communication structure WS. The operating device4is configured to select the second wireless communicator WC2if the wired communicator PC5is not electrically connected to the wired communication structure WS.

The controller92is configured to select the wireless communicator WC3if the controller92wirelessly receives the control signal CS11and/or CS12from the operating device3. The controller92is configured to select the wireless communicator WC3if the controller92wirelessly receives the control signal CS21and/or CS22from the operating device4.

As seen inFIG.23, the controller92is configured to communicate with the operating devices3and4using the wired communicator PC1through the wired communication structure WS if the wired communicators PC4and PC5of the operating devices3and4are electrically connected to the wired communication structure WS. The operating device3is configured to select the wired communicator PC4if the wired communicator PC4is electrically connected to the wired communication structure WS. The operating device4is configured to select the wired communicator PC5if the wired communicator PC5is electrically connected to the wired communication structure WS.

The controller92is configured to select the wired communicator PC1if the controller92receives the control signal CS11and/or CS12from the operating device3via the wired communication structure WS. The controller92is configured to select the wired communicator PC1if the controller92receives the control signal CS21and/or CS22from the operating device4via the wired communication structure WS. The controller92can be configured to change the communication channel between the wired communication channel and the wireless communication channel in response to another input.

As seen inFIG.3, the human-powered vehicle2includes a sensor SS1. In the first embodiment, the sensor SS1is configured to sense a state of the human-powered vehicle2. The sensor SS1includes at least one of an acceleration sensor, a rotation sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a torque sensor, and a motion sensor. The acceleration sensor is configured to sense an acceleration of at least one of the wheel W2and the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.1). The rotation sensor is configured to sense a rotation of at least one of the wheel W2and the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.1). The gyroscope sensor is configured to sense a posture of the human-powered vehicle2relative to a direction of gravitational force. The torque sensor is configured to sense a torque applied to the crank CR. The motion sensor is configured to sense a rotation of at least one of the wheel W2and the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.1). The controller92is configured to receive a detection result of the sensor SS1via the cable connector CN1.

For example, in a case where the sensor SS1is configured to sense an inclined angle of the human-powered vehicle2relative to the direction of gravitational force, the inclined angle sensed by the sensor SS1indicates an inclined angle of a road surface on which the human-powered vehicle2runs. The sensor SS1is configured to be calibrated (e.g., rest) to execute zero adjustment of the sensor SS1based on a posture of the sensor SS1of when the sensor SS1is calibrated. In the first embodiment, as seen inFIG.2, the sensor SS1is mounted to a hub assembly H configured to rotatably support the rear sprocket assembly RS. However, the position and/or function of the sensor SS1is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, in a case where the sensor SS1include the torque sensor, the sensor SS1can be mounted to the crank CR.

The human-powered vehicle2includes a generator98configured to generate electricity using a rotation of the wheel W1and/or W2. The generator98is configured to be electrically connected to the controller92of the derailleur RD. The generator98is mounted to the hub assembly H (see e.g.,FIG.2). The hub assembly H can also be referred to as a hub dynamo H. The sensor SS1is mounted to the hub assembly H. The derailleur RD includes an additional connector CN3. The additional connector CN3is configured to be electrically connected to the generator98and the sensor SS1via an electric cable EC3. The derailleur RD is configured to use electricity supplied from the generator98. The generator98can be omitted from the human-powered vehicle2if needed and/or desired. The sensor SS1can be configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicator WC3of the derailleur RD.

The human-powered vehicle2includes a cadence sensor SS2. The state of the human-powered vehicle2can includes the cadence of the human-powered vehicle2. The cadence sensor SS2is configured to sense a cadence of the human-powered vehicle2. The cadence sensor SS2is configured to sense a rotational speed of the crank CR. The controller92is configured to obtain the cadence sensed by the cadence sensor SS2. In the first embodiment, as seen inFIG.1, the cadence sensor SS2is mounted to the vehicle body2A. However, the position of the cadence sensor SS2is not limited to the first embodiment. For example, the cadence sensor SS2can be provided at any one of a crank shaft of the crank CR, a crank arm of the crank CR, a pedal attached to the crank CR. The cadence sensor SS2is configured to wirelessly communicate with the controller92of the derailleur RD. However, the cadence sensor SS2can be configured to be electrically connected to the derailleur RD via the wired communication structure WS.

The controller92is configured to control the electrical actuator32and/or the electrical actuator132based on a running condition of the human-powered vehicle2. The controller92is configured to control the electrical actuator32and/or the electrical actuator132based on a comparison between the running condition and a threshold.

The controller92has a manual shifting mode and an automatic shifting mode. In the manual shifting mode, the controller92is configured to control the derailleur RD and the derailleur FD based on the control signals CS11, CS12, CS21, and CS22transmitted from the operating device3and the operating device4. In the automatic shifting mode, the controller92is configured to control the derailleur RD and the derailleur FD based on an automatic gear shift schedule R1(FIG.24), a current gear position of the derailleur RD, a current gear position of the derailleur FD, the running condition of the human-powered vehicle2(e.g., the inclined angle or the vehicle speed) sensed by the sensor SS1, and the cadence sensed by the cadence sensor SS2without using the control signals transmitted from the operating device3and the operating device4. In the automatic shifting mode, the controller92is configured to automatically maintain the cadence of the crank CR within a preferable cadence range based on the automatic gear shift schedule R1(FIG.24), the inclined angle sensed by the sensor SS1, and the cadence sensed by the cadence sensor SS2without using the control signals transmitted from the operating device3and the operating device4. The controller92is configured to store the preferable cadence range in the memory92M. The preferable cadence range has an upper shifting threshold and a lower shifting threshold and is defined from the upper shifting threshold to the lower shifting threshold.

In the automatic shifting mode, the controller92is configured to execute upshifting of the derailleur RD if the cadence sensed by the cadence sensor SS2is higher than the upper shifting threshold for a determination time. The controller92is configured to execute downshifting of the derailleur RD if the cadence sensed by the cadence sensor SS2is lower than the lower shifting threshold for the determination time. The controller92is configured to store the determination time in the memory92M. Each of the upper shifting threshold and the lower shifting threshold can also be referred as a shifting threshold.

In the automatic shifting mode, the controller92is configured to change the upper shifting threshold and the lower shifting threshold based on the inclined angle sensed by the sensor SS1. For example, the controller92is configured to increase each of the upper shifting threshold and the lower shifting threshold by a first predetermined percentage if the inclined angle sensed by the sensor SS1is larger than an upper inclination threshold. The controller92is configured to decrease each of the upper shifting threshold and the lower shifting threshold by a second predetermined percentage if the inclined angle sensed by the sensor SS1is larger than a lower inclination threshold. The controller92is configured to store the first predetermined percentage, the second predetermined percentage, the upper inclination threshold, and the lower inclination threshold in the memory92M.

The controller92has a synchronized shifting mode and a non-synchronized shifting mode. The manual shifting mode includes the synchronized shifting mode and the non-synchronized shifting mode. In the synchronized shifting mode, the controller92is configured to control the derailleur RD and the derailleur FD based on a synchronized gear shift schedule R2(FIG.24) and the control signals transmitted from the operating device3without using the control signals transmitted from the operating device4. The controller92is configured to store the synchronized gear shift schedule R2of the synchronized shifting mode in the memory92M. In the non-synchronized shifting mode, the controller92is configured to control the derailleur RD based on the control signals transmitted from the operating device3and is configured to control the derailleur FD based on the control signals transmitted from the operating device4.

As seen inFIG.24, the derailleur RD has first to twelfth gear stages. The derailleur FD has low and top gear stages. The drive train DT has 24 gear stages. The automatic gear shift schedule R1has 14 gear stages among the 24 gear stages. The synchronized gear shift schedule R2uses 14 gear stages among the 24 gear stages. In the first embodiment, the automatic gear shift schedule R1is the same as the synchronized gear shift schedule R2. However, the automatic gear shift schedule R1can be different from the synchronized gear shift schedule R2.

In the first embodiment, each of the automatic gear shift schedule R1and the synchronized gear shift schedule R2is used for both upshifting and downshifting. However, the controller92can be configured to use an automatic gear upshift schedule for upshifting and an automatic gear downshift schedule route, which is different from the automatic gear upshift schedule, for downshifting. The controller92can be configured to use a synchronized gear upshift schedule for upshifting and a synchronized gear downshift schedule route, which is different from the synchronized gear upshift schedule, for downshifting.

In a case where the derailleur FD is omitted from the derailleur10, the front sprocket assembly FS can include only a single front sprocket. In such an embodiment, the synchronized shifting mode is omitted from the manual shifting mode, and the synchronized gear shift schedule R2is omitted from the shift schedule of the human-powered vehicle2depicted inFIG.24. The automatic gear shift schedule R1can be a straight line between the largest and smallest sprockets RS1and RS12on the shift schedule.

In a case where the manual shifting mode is omitted from the human-powered vehicle2, the synchronized shifting mode is omitted from the manual shifting mode, and the synchronized gear shift schedule R2is omitted from the shift schedule of the human-powered vehicle2depicted inFIG.24. Furthermore, the shift unit of the operating device3can be omitted from the operating device3, and the shift unit of the operating device4can be omitted from the operating device4.

As seen inFIG.3, the operating device3includes a shifting-mode operation switch SW14configured to receive a shifting-mode input U14. The controller92is configured to change the shifting mode between the manual shifting mode and the automatic shifting mode in response to the shifting-mode input U14received by the shifting-mode operation switch SW14. In a case where the human-powered vehicle2has only one of the manual shifting mode and the automatic shifting mode, the shifting-mode operation switch SW14can be omitted from the operating device3.

The operating device4includes an additional shifting-mode switch SW24configured to receive an additional shifting-mode input U24. In the manual shifting mode, the controller92is configured to change the shifting mode between the synchronized shifting mode and the non-synchronized shifting mode in response to the additional shifting-mode input U24received by the additional shifting-mode switch SW24. In a case where the human-powered vehicle2has only one of the manual shifting mode and the automatic shifting mode and/or has only one of the synchronized shifting mode and the non-synchronized shifting mode as the manual shifting mode, the additional shifting-mode switch SW24can be omitted from the operating device4.

As seen inFIG.3, the derailleur RD includes a user interface96. The user interface96is configured to receive a user input U3to change a state of the derailleur RD. For example, the user interface96is configured to receive the user input U3to change a communication mode, an adjustment mode, a reset of settings, and/or the thresholds in the derailleur RD. The user interface96is configured to be electrically connected to the controller92.

The controller92is configured to detect the user input U3received by the user interface96. The user input U3includes a single normal operation of the user interface96, a long operation of the user interface96, and/or a total number of operations of the user interface96during a predetermined period of time (e.g., a double click or double tap). The controller92can be configured to determine a variety of different operations of the user interface96in accordance with the type of the user interface96.

In the first embodiment, the user interface96includes a switch SW3. The switch SW3is configured to be activated in response to the user input U3. The switch SW3includes at least one of a push switch, a dial switch, a tactile switch, a slide switch, a capacitive switch, and a toggle switch. However, the user interface96is not limited to the above switches. The user interface96can include other types of interfaces such as a touch panel. The user interface96can be omitted from the derailleur RD if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.3, the derailleur RD comprises an information device97. The information device97is configured to inform a user of a state of the derailleur RD. The information device97includes an indicator97A. The indicator97A is configured to indicate a state of the derailleur RD. The state of the derailleur RD includes a state of settings of the derailleur RD, an operating state of the derailleur RD, a communication state of the derailleur RD, an abnormality of the derailleur RD, and/or a state of an electric power source of the derailleur RD (in a case where the derailleur RD includes its own battery). For example, the indicator97A includes a light-emitting diode (LED). The indicator97A is electrically connected to the controller92. The indicator97A is electrically mounted on the circuit board92C of the controller92. The information device97is not limited to the above structure.

As seen inFIG.3, the derailleur FD includes a user interface196. The user interface196is configured to receive a user input U4to change a state of the derailleur FD. For example, the user interface196is configured to receive the user input U4to change a communication mode, an adjustment mode, a reset of settings, and/or the thresholds in the derailleur FD. The user interface196is configured to be electrically connected to the controller92via the wired communication structure WS.

The controller92is configured to detect the user input U4received by the user interface196. The user input U4includes a single normal operation of the user interface196, a long operation of the user interface196, and/or a total number of operations of the user interface196during a predetermined period of time (e.g., a double click or double tap). The controller92can be configured to determine a variety of different operations of the user interface196in accordance with the type of the user interface196.

In the first embodiment, the user interface196includes a switch SW4. The switch SW4is configured to be activated in response to the user input U4. The switch SW4includes at least one of a push switch, a dial switch, a tactile switch, a slide switch, a capacitive switch, and a toggle switch. However, the user interface196is not limited to the above switches. The user interface196can include other types of interfaces such as a touch panel. The user interface196can be omitted from the derailleur FD if needed and/or desired.

As seen inFIG.3, the derailleur FD comprises an information device197. The information device197is configured to inform a user of a state of the derailleur FD. The information device197includes an indicator197A. The indicator197A is configured to indicate a state of the derailleur FD. The state of the derailleur FD includes a state of settings of the derailleur FD, an operating state of the derailleur FD, a communication state of the derailleur FD, an abnormality of the derailleur FD, and/or a state of an electric power source of the derailleur FD (in a case where the derailleur FD includes its own battery). For example, the indicator197A includes a light-emitting diode (LED). The indicator197A is electrically connected to the controller92. The information device197is not limited to the above structure.

Second Embodiment

A derailleur210in accordance with a second embodiment will be described below referring toFIGS.25to30. The derailleur210includes a derailleur RD2and a derailleur FD2. The derailleur RD2has the same structure and/or configuration as those of the derailleur RD except for the arrangement of the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68. The derailleur FD2has the same structure and/or configuration as those of the derailleur FD except for the arrangement of the electrical actuator132, the output member146, and the saver member148. Thus, elements having substantially the same function as those in the first embodiment will be numbered the same here and will not be described and/or illustrated again in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIG.25, the derailleur RD2for the human-powered vehicle2comprises the base member12, the movable member14, and the linkage16. The derailleur RD2for the human-powered vehicle2comprises the electrical actuator32. The derailleur RD2for the human-powered vehicle2comprises the first biasing member60and the second biasing member62. The derailleur RD2further comprises the output member64. The derailleur RD further comprises the saver member68. The base member12, the movable member14, the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD2have substantially the same structures as the structures of the base member12, the movable member14, the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD.

InFIG.25, the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD2are plane-symmetrical to the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD depicted inFIG.13. However, the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD2can be asymmetrical to the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur RD depicted inFIG.13.

In the second embodiment, the electrical actuator32is attached to the movable member14. The actuator casing34is secured to the movable member14. However, the electrical actuator32can be attached to another member such as the base member12and the linkage16if needed and/or desired.

In the second embodiment, the first direction D21includes the outward direction D32. The second direction D22includes the inward direction D31. More specifically, the first direction D21is the outward direction D32. The second direction D22is the inward direction D31. However, the first direction D21can include the inward direction D31, and the second direction D22can include the outward direction D32.

The second position P12is closer to the transverse center plane CP than the first position P1. The movable member14is moved relative to the base member12from the second position P12to the first position P1in the first direction D21or the outward direction D32. The movable member14is moved relative to the base member12from the first position P1to the second position P12in the second direction D22or the inward direction D31. However, the first position P1can be closer to the transverse center plane CP than the second position P12if needed and/or desired.

The first position P1corresponds to the smallest sprocket RS12of the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.2). The second position P12corresponds to the largest sprocket RS1of the rear sprocket assembly RS (see e.g.,FIG.2). However, the first position P1can correspond to the largest sprocket RS1, an innermost position, and/or a low gear position. The second position P12can correspond to the smallest sprocket RS12, an outermost position, and/or a top gear position.

The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the first direction D21or the outward direction D32in response to the first control signal CS11(see e.g.,FIG.3). The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the second direction D22or the inward direction D31in response to the first additional control signal CS12(see e.g.,FIG.3).

FIG.26shows a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is in the first position P1.FIG.27shows a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is in the second position P12. InFIGS.26and27, the chain guide24is omitted from the movable member14.

As seen inFIGS.26and27, the electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the first direction D21via the second biasing member62if the output part36of the electrical actuator32rotates in the first rotational direction D41. The second biasing member62is configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the first link18in response to the first rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32in the first rotational direction D41. The movable member14is configured to move relative to the base member12in the first direction D21in response to the actuating force AF1transmitted from the output part36of the electrical actuator32via the second biasing member62.

The electrical actuator32is configured to move the movable member14in the second direction D22via the first biasing member60if the output part36of the electrical actuator32rotates in the second rotational direction D42which is an opposite direction of the first rotational direction D41. The first biasing member60is configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the second link20in response to the second rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32in the second rotational direction D42. The movable member14is configured to move relative to the base member12in the second direction D22in response to the actuating force AF1transmitted from the output part36of the electrical actuator32via the first biasing member60.

The second biasing member62, the output member64, and the saver member68are configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the first link18in response to the first rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32. The first biasing member60, the output member64, and the saver member68are configured to transmit the actuating force AF1to the second link20in response to the second rotation of the output part36of the electrical actuator32.

FIG.28shows a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is moved from the first position P1(see e.g.,FIG.26) to the second position P12in the second direction D22in response to second external force EF2.FIG.29shows a state of the derailleur RD in which the movable member14is moved from the second position P12(see e.g.,FIG.27) to the first position P1in the first direction D21in response to first external force EF1. InFIGS.28and29, the chain guide24is omitted from the movable member14.

As seen inFIGS.27and29, the first biasing member60is configured to deform if the first external force EF1is applied to move the movable member14in the first direction D21. The first biasing member60is configured to reduce the first external force EF1transmitted to the output part36. The first biasing member60is configured to allow the movable member14to move relative to the base member12in the first direction D21in response to the first external force EF1. The first biasing member60is configured to deform in response to the first force F1which is caused by the first external force EF1and which is applied to the first biasing member60against the first biasing force BF1of the first biasing member60.

As seen inFIGS.26and28, the second biasing member62is configured to deform if the second external force EF2is applied to move the movable member14in the second direction D22. The second biasing member62is configured to reduce the second external force EF2transmitted to the output part36. The second biasing member62is configured to allow the movable member14to move relative to the base member12in the second direction D22in response to the second external force EF2. The second biasing member62is configured to deform in response to the second force F2which is caused by the second external force EF2and which is applied to the second biasing member62against the second biasing force BF2of the second biasing member62.

Since the derailleur RD2has substantially the same structure as the structure of the derailleur RD, the description regarding the derailleur RD can be utilized to describe the derailleur RD2. Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

As seen inFIG.30, the derailleur FD2for the human-powered vehicle2comprises the base member112, the movable member114, and the linkage116. The derailleur FD2for the human-powered vehicle2comprises the electrical actuator132. The derailleur FD2for the human-powered vehicle2comprises the first biasing member160and the second biasing member162. The derailleur FD2further comprises the output member164. The derailleur FD further comprises the saver member168. The base member112, the movable member114, the linkage116, the electrical actuator132, the output member164, and the saver member168of the derailleur FD2have substantially the same structures as the structures of the base member112, the movable member114, the linkage116, the electrical actuator132, the output member164, and the saver member168of the derailleur FD.

InFIG.30, the linkage116, the electrical actuator132, the output member164, and the saver member168of the derailleur FD2are plane-symmetrical to the linkage116, the electrical actuator132, the output member164, and the saver member168of the derailleur FD depicted inFIG.20. However, the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur FD2can be asymmetrical to the linkage16, the electrical actuator32, the output member64, and the saver member68of the derailleur FD depicted inFIG.20.

In the second embodiment, the electrical actuator132is attached to the movable member114. The actuator casing134is secured to the movable member114. However, the electrical actuator132can be attached to another member such as the base member112and the linkage116if needed and/or desired.

In the second embodiment, the first direction D51includes the outward direction D62. The second direction D52includes the inward direction D61. More specifically, the first direction D51is the outward direction D62. The second direction D52is the inward direction D61. However, the first direction D51can include the inward direction D61, and the second direction D52can include the outward direction D62.

The second position P52is closer to the transverse center plane CP than the first position P51. The movable member114is moved relative to the base member112from the second position P52to the first position P51in the first direction D51or the outward direction D62. The movable member114is moved relative to the base member112from the first position P51to the second position P52in the second direction D52or the inward direction D61. However, the first position P51can be closer to the transverse center plane CP than the second position P52if needed and/or desired.

The first position P51corresponds to the largest sprocket FS2of the front sprocket assembly FS (see e.g.,FIG.2). The second position P52corresponds to the smallest sprocket FS1of the front sprocket assembly FS (see e.g.,FIG.2). However, the first position P51can correspond to the smallest sprocket FS1, an innermost position, and/or a top gear position. The second position P52can correspond to the largest sprocket FS2, an outermost position, and/or a low gear position.

Since the derailleur FD2has substantially the same structure as the structure of the derailleur FD, the description regarding the derailleur FD can be utilized to describe the derailleur FD2. Thus, they will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

Modifications

In the derailleur RD of the first embodiment, as seen inFIG.12, at least one of the first biasing member60and the second biasing member62includes an extension spring. Each of the first biasing member60and the second biasing member62includes an extension spring. However, the structures of the first biasing member60and the second biasing member62are not limited to the structures disclosed in the first embodiment. As seen inFIG.31, the derailleur RD can comprise a first biasing member360and a second biasing member362. At least one of the first biasing member360and the second biasing member362includes a compression spring. InFIG.31, each of the first biasing member360and the second biasing member362includes a compression spring.

In the modification illustrated inFIG.31, the first contact surface70A of the first contact part70faces in the second rotational direction D42. The first additional contact surface72A of the first additional contact part72faces in the first rotational direction D41. The second contact surface74A of the second contact part74faces in the first rotational direction D41. The second additional contact surface76A of the second additional contact part76faces in the second rotational direction D42.

The modification ofFIG.31can apply to the derailleur FD illustrated inFIG.20, the derailleur RD2illustrated inFIG.25, and the derailleur FD2illustrated inFIG.30if needed and/or desired.

In the derailleur RD of the first embodiment, the output member64and the saver member68are configured to be engaged with the second link20of the linkage16. However, the output member64and the saver member68can be configured to be engaged with the first link18of the linkage16if needed and/or desired. The same modification can apply to the derailleur FD illustrated inFIG.20, the derailleur RD2illustrated inFIG.25, and the derailleur FD2illustrated inFIG.30if needed and/or desired.

The term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, the terms “have,” “include” and their derivatives.

The terms “member,” “section,” “portion,” “part,” “element,” “body” and “structure” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

The ordinal numbers such as “first” and “second” recited in the present application are merely identifiers, but do not have any other meanings, for example, a particular order and the like. Moreover, for example, the term “first element” itself does not imply an existence of “second element,” and the term “second element” itself does not imply an existence of “first element.”

The term “pair of,” as used herein, can encompass the configuration in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other in addition to the configuration in which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures as each other.

The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.

The phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “one or more” of a desired choice. For one example, the phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “only one single choice” or “both of two choices” if the number of its choices is two. For other example, the phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “only one single choice” or “any combination of equal to or more than two choices” if the number of its choices is equal to or more than three. For instance, the phrase “at least one of A and B” encompasses (1) A alone, (2), B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” encompasses (1) A alone, (2), B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B, and C. In other words, the phrase “at least one of A and B” does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B” in this disclosure.

Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially,” “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. All of numerical values described in the present application can be construed as including the terms such as “substantially,” “about” and “approximately.”

Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.