Bulbous grip for rotatable bicycle gear shifter
US6199447A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 26, 1997 |
| Grant date | Mar 13, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 26, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/20828
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A bulbous rotatable gripping surface for a derailleur-type bicycle gear shifting system is formed of a resilient material with axially extending and angularly alternating ridges and base regions. The bulbous shape extending along the handlebar axis provides an increased diameter that naturally conforms to the longer middle finger of a rider's hand relative to the shorter adjoining index and ring fingers, to aid in the transmission of torque. The ridges and base regions are angularly spaced such that they fit naturally into the crooks of the rider's hand. The ridges, likewise, provide a larger diameter to aid in the transmission of torque and to protrude above any mud which may have collected thereon. To further enhance the torque transmission capabilities of the grip, the gripping surface is provided with a pattern of nubs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.