Bicycle component provided with electronic device

Abstract

The invention relates to a bicycle component provided with an electronic device. The invention relates to a method of operating an electronic device associated with a bicycle component and comprising a processor and a wake-up unit, the method comprising the following steps, which can be executed by the processor of the electronic device: - operating alternately in a standby mode and in a running mode, - upon reception of a wake-up signal from the wake-up unit, switching from the standby mode to the running mode under predetermined wake-up conditions, and - before switching from the running mode to the standby mode, modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit by updating the predetermined wake-up conditions, so that a subsequent wake-up signal is sent to the processor under the updated wake-up conditions. The invention also relates to a related bicycle component.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of bicycles, and in particular to a bicycle component provided with electronic devices and to a related operating method. BACKGROUND

[0002] Bicycles are increasingly equipped with one or more electronic devices.

[0003] Here, particularly relevant electronic devices are, for example, torque meters or power meters, which can be associated with bicycle components, such as, for example, transmission components. In this specification, the term "torque meter" means an instrument for detecting the torque transmitted by the cyclist; the term "power meter" means an instrument for detecting the pedaling power. As is known, the power measurement can be obtained by a processor by combining the output of the torque meter with the output of an angular speed meter.

[0004] Another example of electronic devices can include wireless communication systems, i.e. radio systems that send / receive commands, which can be associated with bicycle components, such as, for example, transmission components, wheels, hubs, (front or rear) derailleur elements, derailleur control devices, in particular associated with handlebars, brake levers, saddles, seat posts, suspensions, etc.

[0005] Electronic devices generally comprise one or more electronic components, such as, for example, a processor, and are generally powered by one or more battery power units suitably arranged on the bicycle. Sometimes, each electronic device of the bicycle comprises its own battery power unit.

[0006] The battery power units that power the electronic devices can be replaceable, chargeable on the bike or chargeable when detached from the bicycle. In all cases, it is necessary to keep the energy consumption of the electronic devices as low as possible in order to preserve the charge of the battery power units and thus the autonomy of the electronic devices.

[0007] To this end, in addition to providing the electronic devices with an actual on / off switch, it is possible to operate one or more electronic components of the devices, like, for example, a processor, according to different operating modes (for example by alternating the running mode with the standby mode).

[0008] In this specification, the "standby mode" (sometimes also indicated as sleep or wait or low power mode) is intended to mean a condition in which the electronic components are not operating but are ready to switch from a state of temporary non-use to the running mode; in the standby mode, typically only those circuits that allow the components to be activated upon receipt of a command or in general an input relating to the actuation of the components remain operating, thus having a low electrical energy consumption.

[0009] Conversely, in the present description, the "operating mode" of an electronic component is intended to mean the mode in which the component is ready to receive commands or generally inputs and to perform tasks, but it can only participate in waiting for commands and inputs without performing any specific task.

[0010] In the present description, the switching from the standby mode to the operating mode is indicated as the wake-up of the electronic component. More generally, it is also intended to encompass: under the wake-up of the component, the device is kept in the operating mode, preventing it from entering the standby mode. In both cases, the same signal or a similar signal can be used.

[0011] The Applicant notes that the switching from the standby mode to the operating mode is generally controlled by a wake-up mechanism adapted to emit a wake-up signal. The wake-up signal can be emitted on the basis of a detection made by a suitable sensor associated with the electronic device.

[0012] For example, the European patent application EP3566935A1 of the same Applicant describes a bicycle crank arm provided with an electronic system comprising a battery power supply unit, a processor having a standby mode and an operating mode, and a wake-up unit emitting a wake-up signal of the processor.

[0013] In the embodiment described in that application, the wake-up unit is implemented by an accelerometer, and the wake-up signal comprises an interrupt generated by the accelerometer when it detects an acceleration equal to or greater than a threshold or minimum acceleration along one of its axes.

[0014] In this context, the Applicant faces the technical problem of providing an alternative wake-up mechanism.

[0015] In particular, the Applicant faces the technical problem of providing a reliable and effective alternative wake-up mechanism. SUMMARY

[0016] Therefore, in a first aspect of the present application, the present application relates to a method of operating an electronic device associated with a bicycle component and comprising a processor and a wake-up unit, the method comprising the following steps, which can be performed by the processor of the electronic device:

[0017] - operating alternately in a standby mode and in an operating mode,

[0018] - switching from the standby mode to the operating mode upon reception of a wake-up signal from the wake-up unit under predetermined wake-up conditions, and

[0019] - modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit by updating the predetermined wake-up conditions, so that a subsequent wake-up signal is sent to the processor under the updated wake-up conditions, before switching from the operating mode to the standby mode.

[0020] In a second aspect of the application, the application also relates to a bicycle component comprising an electronic device comprising:

[0021] - a processor adapted to operate alternately in a standby mode and in a running mode, and

[0022] - a wake-up unit operatively connected to the processor and configured to send a wake-up signal to the processor under predetermined wake-up conditions to switch from the standby mode to the running mode,

[0023] characterized in that, before switching from the running mode to the standby mode, the processor is adapted each time to modify the configuration of the wake-up unit by updating the predetermined wake-up conditions so that the subsequent wake-up signal is sent to the processor under the updated wake-up conditions.

[0024] As will be clear from the following description, each time the wake-up conditions are updated, in other words modified, so that the subsequent wake-up signal is sent to the processor under the updated, in other words modified, wake-up conditions, it is advantageously allowed to obtain an alternative, reliable and efficient wake-up mechanism.

[0025] Moreover, in embodiments of the application, the updating of the wake-up conditions is in particular allowed to minimize the chances of unwanted wake-up of the processor of the electronic device and thus to preserve the charge of the battery power supply unit powering the device and its components.

[0026] The application can have one or more of the preferred features presented below, in one or more of its aspects, which features can be combined as desired depending on the application requirements.

[0027] Preferably, the bicycle component is a mobile bicycle component.

[0028] In the present description, a mobile component of a bicycle is intended to mean a bicycle component which, in use, can move between one or more positions with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, for example by translational movement and / or rotational movement about a rotation axis.

[0029] The fixed reference element of the bicycle is for example the frame of the bicycle.

[0030] Non-limiting examples of mobile components of a bicycle include rotating bicycle components, elements of the mobile body of a (front or rear) derailleur, saddles, seat posts, shock absorbers, derailleur control devices (in particular associated with handlebars).

[0031] More preferably, the bicycle component is a rotating bicycle component.

[0032] In the present description, a "rotating bicycle component" is intended to mean a bicycle component configured to rotate, in use, about its rotation axis.

[0033] For example, such rotating component can be a wheel, a rim, a hub, a shaft suitable for moving an actuator of a bicycle element (for example a shaft of a motor or of a geared motor associated with an electromechanical actuator of a derailleur) or a bicycle transmission component.

[0034] In the present description, "bicycle transmission component" is intended to mean a component which starts rotating only by means of pedalling movements imparted by the cyclist during use of the bicycle (and not when the bicycle is moved on the running surface from the outside, for example by displacement of the user's hands).

[0035] Even more preferably, the bicycle component is a bicycle transmission component.

[0036] The bicycle transmission component is preferably selected from the group consisting of a crank arm, a pedal, a spider leg of a crank arm on the transmission side, a toothed disc, a bottom bracket axle, a freewheel body of a gear set, a sprocket.

[0037] Preferably, said predetermined wake-up condition comprises at least one condition selected from the group consisting of: a predetermined position of the bicycle component with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, a predetermined inclination assumed by the bicycle and / or by the bicycle component with respect to a reference axis, a predetermined load acting on the bicycle component, a predetermined angular position assumed by the rotating bicycle component or by the bicycle transmission component during a rotational movement around an axis of rotation.

[0038] In particular, when the bicycle component is a moving component, said predetermined wake-up condition preferably comprises a predetermined position of the bicycle component with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, such as for example the frame.

[0039] In the case of a rotating component, more particularly in the case of a bicycle transmission component, said predetermined wake-up condition preferably comprises a predetermined angular position assumed by the bicycle component during a rotational movement around an axis of rotation.

[0040] In particular, in the case where the bicycle component is a transmission component, the provision of an update of the predetermined wake-up condition for issuing each subsequent wake-up signal has particularly advantageous implementations, since the involuntary movements or vibrations of the bicycle component (not corresponding to the rotation imparted by the cyclist through voluntary pedalling movements) can satisfy such predetermined wake-up condition and cause the chance of undesired wake-up of the processor of the electronic device to be effectively minimised, advantageously saving the charge of the battery power supply unit which powers the electronic device and its components.

[0041] In fact, since the updating of the predetermined wake-up condition involves modifying the angular position of the bicycle component at which the wake-up signal is emitted, the chance that the component randomly moves to the updated angular position, which each time is different from the previous one, is consistently reduced, if not substantially eliminated.

[0042] In other words, the unwanted and repeated vibrations or movements in the same direction and / or in the same sense are prevented from causing the wake-up of the processor in an unwanted manner.

[0043] This type of wake-up mechanism is therefore particularly suitable for application to electronic devices such as torque or power meters of crank arms or other transmission components, since limited by the fact that the cyclist must pedal to generate power, this type of torque or power meter must necessarily pass through certain angular positions in a certain order.

[0044] Even more preferably, the bicycle component is a crank arm.

[0045] In this case, the electronic device is preferably fixed to the crank arm or integrated in the crank arm.

[0046] More preferably, the crank arm is monolithic and made of composite material comprising structural fibres incorporated in a polymer matrix, the crank arm being co-moulded with one or more printed circuit boards implementing said electronic device.

[0047] Preferably, the wake-up unit comprises a sensor configured to detect a parameter associated with the bicycle component, and the wake-up unit is configured to send the wake-up signal to the processor when the parameter detected by the sensor satisfies the wake-up condition.

[0048] Preferably, in this case, the method further comprises the following steps, which can be performed by the wake-up unit of the electronic device:

[0049] - detecting, by means of said sensor, a parameter associated with the bicycle component; and

[0050] - sending a wake-up signal to the processor when the detected parameter satisfies a predetermined wake-up condition.

[0051] In an embodiment, in the step of modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit, the updated wake-up condition is defined starting from the predetermined wake-up condition.

[0052] According to this way of updating the wake-up condition, hereinafter also denoted as "wake-up-wake-up", the updated wake-up condition is defined starting from the predetermined wake-up condition, in other words, from those of the previous wake-up of the processor.

[0053] In particular, in the embodiments in which the wake-up condition comprises a predetermined angular position of a rotating bicycle component or bicycle transmission component, the updated angular position is moved by a predetermined update angle with respect to said predetermined angular position of the bicycle component.

[0054] In this case, the updated angular wake-up position is defined starting from the predetermined angular position corresponding to the last angular wake-up position of the bicycle component, in other words to the position of the processor at the previous wake-up, according to the "wake-up-wake-up" update mode of the wake-up condition.

[0055] Preferably, in alternative embodiments, in the step of modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit, the updated wake-up condition is defined starting from the value assumed by the parameter detected by the wake-up unit at the switch from the running mode to the standby mode of the processor.

[0056] This update mode of the wake-up condition, hereinafter also indicated as "sleep-wake-up", provides for defining the updated wake-up condition based on the value assumed by the parameter associated with the bicycle component at the sleep or entry into the standby step of the processor.

[0057] In particular, in the embodiments in which the wake-up condition comprises a predetermined angular position of a rotating bicycle component or bicycle transmission component, the updated angular position is moved by a predetermined update angle with respect to the angular position assumed by the bicycle component at the switch from the running mode to the standby mode of the processor.

[0058] In this particular case, according to the "sleep-wake-up" update mode of the wake-up condition, the subsequent updated angular position is determined from the last angular sleep position of the processor, which is of course not known a priori, so that, unlike the "wake-up-wake-up" mode, the subsequent updated angular position used for each transmission of the wake-up signal is substantially random and unpredictably distributed along the full circle, rather than falling in a position predetermined from the start. This configuration is however advantageous as it further reduces the chance of unwanted wake-up of the processor. In fact, the updated angular position is prevented from being defined by chance at the last angular sleep position of the processor.

[0059] Preferably, in all the cases listed above, said predetermined update angle is 90°.

[0060] In embodiments, the processor of the electronic device is configured to switch from the standby mode to the running mode only after receiving a plurality of repeated wake-up signals from the wake-up unit.

[0061] In this case, the step of switching from the standby mode to the running mode, which can be performed by the processor of the electronic device, preferably comprises switching from the standby mode to the running mode only after receiving a plurality of repeated wake-up signals from the wake-up unit.

[0062] This configuration enhances the wake-up condition by disregarding the first wake-up signal (and possibly further subsequent wake-up signals) preventing false positives. For example, in fact, when the wake-up condition comprises a predetermined angular position of a rotating bicycle component or bicycle transmission component, the first wake-up signal (and possibly further subsequent wake-up signals) can be due to an involuntary and undesired rotation of the bicycle component (even if it occurs in rare and accidental cases) that brings the bicycle component exactly into the updated angular position from which the first wake-up signal is emitted.

[0063] Alternatively, the wake-up unit can be configured to send a wake-up signal to the processor only after the parameter detected by the sensor has satisfied the wake-up condition a certain number of times, or for example only after said parameter has satisfied that the angular position of a rotating bicycle component has moved gradually with respect to the previous angular position of the component by a predetermined repeat angle.

[0064] Preferably, said repeat angle is equal to said update angle, more preferably equal to 90°.

[0065] Preferably, the sensor of the wake-up unit is selected from the group consisting of: accelerometer, magnetic field sensor (preferably self-contained), inclinometer, gyroscope, pressure sensor, load cell.

[0066] In the present description, the term "self-contained magnetic field sensor" is intended to indicate a magnetic sensor (e.g. a magnetometer) that is completely autonomous, not requiring any other element outside the electronic device in which it is housed to perform its function. For example, the self-contained magnetic field sensor can be a magnetometer suitable for detecting the Earth's magnetic field.

[0067] Preferably, the parameter associated with the bicycle component detected by the wake-up unit and in particular by its sensor comprises a first component of a vector measured along a first detection axis of the sensor.

[0068] Preferably, said vector is indicative or can be related to the position, more preferably the angular position, of the bicycle component.

[0069] Said vector is preferably selected from the group consisting of: acceleration, gravitational acceleration, speed, angular speed, Earth's magnetic field, rotation angle.

[0070] Preferably, the parameter associated with the component detected by the wake-up unit and in particular by its sensor comprises a second component of said vector measured along a second detection axis of the sensor.

[0071] In embodiments, said parameters detected by the wake-up unit, and in particular by its sensors, further comprise a third component of said vector measured along a third detection axis of the sensor.

[0072] Preferably, said first component of the vector, and, if present, said second and / or third component, detected by the wake-up unit are defined by a respective magnitude and sign (positive or negative) which indicates the direction of the above-mentioned component along the respective detection axis.

[0073] Preferably, said predetermined wake-up condition provides that said first component of the vector measured along the first detection axis of the sensor exceeds, in magnitude, a first magnitude threshold of the vector and matches a positive or negative sign.

[0074] More preferably, said predetermined wake-up condition provides that:

[0075] - said first component of the vector measured along the first detection axis of the sensor exceeds, in magnitude, a first magnitude threshold of the vector and matches a positive or negative sign; or

[0076] - said second component of the vector measured along the second detection axis of the sensor exceeds, in magnitude, a second magnitude threshold of the vector and matches a positive or negative sign.

[0077] In this way, each time the wake-up signal is sent in the orientation (detection axis) and in the pointing (positive or negative sign) according to which said vector is measured, which are different and preferably are configured to follow, in use, the movement (preferably rotation) of the bicycle component.

[0078] More preferably, said predetermined wake-up condition further comprises, each, that said first component of the vector, or respectively also said second component of the vector, is higher than the respective first and second magnitude threshold for a duration threshold.

[0079] This allows to verify that the magnitude of the detected vector is stably higher than the threshold, thus filtering out false positive situations due to random or undesired oscillations of the magnitude of the vector.

[0080] In other embodiments, said predetermined wake-up condition provides one of the following alternative conditions:

[0081] - said first component of the vector measured along the first detection axis of the sensor exceeds, in magnitude, a first magnitude threshold of the vector and matches a positive or negative sign; or

[0082] - said second component of the vector measured along the second detection axis of the sensor exceeds, in magnitude, a second magnitude threshold of the vector and matches a positive or negative sign; or

[0083] - said third component of the vector measured along the third detection axis of the sensor exceeds a third magnitude threshold value of the vector in magnitude and matches a positive or negative sign.

[0084] Preferably, in this case, said predetermined wake-up conditions each further comprise that said first component of the vector and respectively also said second and third components of the vector are above respective first, second and third magnitude threshold values of the vector for a duration threshold value.

[0085] More preferably, the sensor of the wake-up unit is an accelerometer.

[0086] In this case, said detected vector is an acceleration.

[0087] When the sensor is an accelerometer, it is preferably selected from the group consisting of an accelerometer with piezoelectric effect, an accelerometer with piezoresistive effect, an accelerometer with capacitive effect, an accelerometer for measuring eddy currents.

[0088] Preferably, in this case, said predetermined wake-up conditions comprise that said first acceleration component measured along the first axis of the accelerometer exceeds a first acceleration threshold value in magnitude and matches a positive / negative sign.

[0089] More preferably, in this case, said predetermined wake-up conditions provide that:

[0090] - said first acceleration component measured along the first axis of the accelerometer exceeds a first acceleration threshold value in magnitude and matches a positive or negative sign; or

[0091] - said second acceleration component measured along the second axis of the accelerometer exceeds a second acceleration threshold value in magnitude and matches a positive or negative sign.

[0092] In this way, each time the wake-up signal is sent in the orientation (axis of the accelerometer) and in the direction (positive or negative sign) in which the acceleration is measured, which are different and are preferably configured to follow the movement, preferably rotation, that the bicycle component follows in use, are different and are preferably configured to follow the movement, preferably rotation, that the bicycle component follows in use.

[0093] For example, when the bicycle component is a crank arm, the magnitude, orientation and direction of the acceleration component measured along the detection axis of the accelerometer correspond to the rotation of the crank arm imparted by the cyclist during pedalling.

[0094] Preferably, the processor is configured to detect the rotational movement of the rotating bicycle component, more preferably based on the output signal of said sensor of the wake-up unit.

[0095] Preferably, the processor is configured to switch from the running mode to the standby mode when no rotation movement of the rotating bicycle component is detected for a time longer than a threshold value.

[0096] Preferably, the wake-up unit is entirely supported by or supported in the bicycle component.

[0097] In other words, the wake-up unit does not comprise and does not require elements outside the bicycle component for the operation of the shoe changing unit.

[0098] Preferably, the electronic device comprises one or more electronic components selected from at least one stress / strain detector, a cadence detector, an analog-digital converter, a communication module, an external / internal temperature sensor, a volatile / non-volatile memory, preferably containing the wake-up conditions, a battery power supply unit, a recharging connector, one or more internal connectors if the electronic device is made in multiple parts, one or more external connectors, a battery charging and current and / or voltage limiting circuit, a protection circuit for the battery power supply unit (also indicated as ESD circuit), one or more light indicators, a control device for the electromechanical or electro-hydraulic actuators of the elements of the bicycle.

[0099] When the electronic device comprises a battery power supply unit, this preferably comprises one or more batteries which are replaceable, chargeable on the bicycle or chargeable in a detached state from the electronic device.

[0100] When the electronic device comprises a number of electronic components, the processor is preferably configured to control the various electronic components so that the electronic device operates according to different operating states, like for example a full running state (also indicated as full wake-up state), a standby state, and possibly a temporary or partial running state (also indicated as monitoring state).

[0101] For example, it can be provided that in the full wake-up state of the electronic device, all the electronic components comprised by it are in the respective running mode; in the standby state of the device, all the electronic components are in the standby mode, and in the partial running mode, some components, like for example the processor and the wake-up unit, are in the operating or partial running mode, while the other components not currently used are in the standby mode.

[0102] Preferably, the electronic device implements or is an integral part of a torque meter and / or a power meter.

[0103] Alternatively or in addition, the electronic device implements or is an integral part of a wireless communication system.

[0104] Alternatively or additionally, the electronic device implements or is part of an electromechanical or electro-hydraulic actuator of a bicycle element.

[0105] In case the electronic device implements or is part of a torque meter and / or a power meter, preferably such meter is of the symmetrical type and comprises two subsystems made at each crank arm of the bicycle, one of said subsystems comprising the aforementioned electronic device.

[0106] In alternative embodiments, the torque meter and / or the power meter is of the asymmetrical type.

[0107] In such case, the torque meter and / or the power meter comprises a single subsystem made at the crank arm on the transmission side of the bicycle or at the middle axle of the crankset.

[0108] Preferably, when the sensor of the wake-up unit is an accelerometer, this also acts as a cadence detector of the electronic device, in particular when the electronic device implements or is part of a torque meter and / or a power meter.

[0109] Preferably, when the electronic device comprises a stress / strain detector, this comprises at least one strain gauge and a relative reading unit.

[0110] In such case, the processor of the electronic device is preferably configured to generate a torque signal based on the signal of the stress / strain detector and / or a power signal based on the signal of the stress / strain detector and the signal of the cadence detector.

[0111] Preferably, the processor is configured to turn on the stress / strain detector when the electronic device enters the fully awake state and to turn off the stress / strain detector when the electronic device enters the standby state (or the partial running / monitoring state, if present).

[0112] Preferably, when the electronic device comprises a communication module, this preferably comprises a radio transceiver configured to communicate with external components, in particular to transmit data such as torque or power measured at the external components.

[0113] Preferably, in such case, the processor is configured to turn on the communication module when the electronic device enters the fully awake state and to turn off the communication module when the electronic device enters the standby state (or the partial running / monitoring state, if present).

[0114] Preferably, the method further comprises the step of detecting the rotational motion of the rotating bicycle component, which step can be performed by the wake-up unit of the electronic device, more specifically by its sensor, or alternatively by a second sensor of the electronic device or a second sensor located elsewhere on the bicycle.

[0115] Preferably, the method further comprises the step, executable by the processor of the electronic device, of switching from the operating mode to the standby mode in a sleep condition, the sleep condition comprising at least one condition selected from the group consisting of: a predetermined position of the bicycle component with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, a predetermined inclination assumed by the bicycle and / or by the bicycle component with respect to a reference axis, a predetermined load acting on the bicycle component, a duration longer than a time threshold of a predetermined angular position assumed by the rotating bicycle component or by the bicycle transmission component during a rotation movement around an axis of rotation; and an absence of rotation movement of the rotating bicycle component for a time longer than a time threshold.

[0116] Preferably, the method further comprises the step, executable by the processor when in the operating mode, of processing the crank arm rotation cadence data and / or the pedalling torque data exerted by the cyclist on the crank arm.

[0117] Preferably, the method further comprises the step, executable by the processor when in the operating mode, of generating the torque signal and / or the power signal.

[0118] Preferably, when the bicycle component is a crank arm, the pedalling torque data are obtained on the basis of the force obtained from the output of the stress / strain detector and on the basis of the known length of the crank arm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0119] Further features and advantages of the present application will become more apparent from the description of a preferred embodiment thereof, given as an indication and without limitation, with reference to the attached drawings wherein:

[0120] - Figure 1 a block diagram of an electronic device that can be associated with a bicycle component is shown, according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0121] - Figure 2 a block diagram of an electronic device that can be associated with a bicycle component is shown, according to a preferred embodiment of the present application;

[0122] - Figure 3 a bicycle component is schematically shown, according to a preferred embodiment of the present application;

[0123] - Figure 4 a graph relating the trend over time of parameters that can be detected by the sensors of an electronic device that can be associated with a bicycle component is shown; Figure 3 Figure 2

[0124] - Figure 5 a bicycle component is schematically shown in different angular positions; Figure 3

[0125] ​​​- Figure 6 definition of a wake-up condition associated with a bicycle component is schematically shown according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0126] - Figure 7 qualitative trend of a parameter detected by a sensor and the related wake-up signal according to the prior art are shown;

[0127] - Figure 8 qualitative trend of a parameter detected by a sensor and the related wake-up signal of an electronic device supported by a bicycle component according to an embodiment of the present application are shown; and

[0128] - Figure 9 a block diagram of a method of operating an electronic device associated with a bicycle component according to a preferred embodiment of the present application is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0129] Figure 1 a block diagram of an electronic device 10 configured to be associated with a bicycle component according to an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0130] The electronic device 10 comprises a processor 12 and a wake-up unit 14 operatively connected to each other.

[0131] The processor 12 is suitably programmed to control one or more electronic components (not shown in the figure) which can be integral parts of the electronic device 10 itself or can belong to other electronic devices supported on the same bicycle component or, more generally, elsewhere on the bicycle. Figure 1

[0132] The processor 12 and the wake-up unit 14, as well as possible other electronic components of the electronic device 10, are powered by a suitable power supply, like for example a battery power supply unit (not shown) which can be integrated in the electronic device 10 itself or located elsewhere on the bicycle.

[0133] For energy saving purposes, the processor 12 is configured to operate alternately according to a running mode and a standby mode, in which the energy consumption of the processor 12 is minimized.

[0134] The wake-up unit 14 in particular comprises a sensor 16 configured to detect one or more parameters associated with the bicycle component on which the electronic device 10 is supported. When the parameters detected by the sensor 16 satisfy predetermined wake-up conditions (whose definition and setting are explained in detail below with reference to the attached figures), the wake-up unit 14 is intended to wake up the processor 12, causing it to pass from the standby mode to the running mode. Similarly, the processor 12 is configured to enter the standby mode each time a specific sleep condition occurs, which can for example correspond to a specific value of the parameters detected by the sensor 16 of the wake-up unit 14 for a certain period of time.​

[0135] The sensor 16 can for example be any sensor chosen from the group consisting of an accelerometer, a magnetic field sensor, more preferably a self-contained one, an inclinometer, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor, a load cell.

[0136] In particular, the parameter detected by the sensor 16 of the wake-up unit 14 is preferably one or more components of a vector measured along one or more respective detection axes of the sensor 16.

[0137] According to the application, the processor 12 is configured to update the wake-up condition of the wake-up unit 14 after each wake-up, in particular shortly before entering the standby mode.

[0138] In some embodiments, the update of the wake-up condition allows to minimize the chance of undesired wake-up of the processor 12 of the electronic device 10, thus achieving an advantageous energy saving.

[0139] The advantages obtainable according to the application are evident, for example with reference to the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3

[0140] In this case, the bicycle component on which the electronic device 100 is supported is a bicycle transmission component, as defined above, more particularly a crank arm, which is indicated in Figure 3 with the reference numeral 20.

[0141] The crank arm 20 shown is in particular a crank arm on the transmission side (in Figure 3 in which the toothed disc 22 of the front derailleur is indeed visible), but it can equally be a crank arm on the side opposite to said transmission side. The electronic device 100 is supported by the arm of the crank arm 20 and is preferably integrated therewith.

[0142] As shown in the block diagram of Figure 2 , the electronic device 100 comprises a processor 12 and a wake-up unit 14, which in this case comprises an accelerometer 116 acting as a sensor. The vector detected by the accelerometer 116 is therefore, in this case, the acceleration of the crank arm 20.

[0143] The actual acceleration to which the crank arm is subjected during its rotation generally comprises the gravitational acceleration g of the crank arm, a centripetal acceleration and a tangential acceleration. During the initial phase of the pedal movement or when approaching a stop, the terms of centripetal and tangential acceleration have a substantially negligible entity with respect to the gravitational acceleration g (in particular, this occurs below a certain rotation speed), therefore in the following it will be approximated considering that only the gravitational acceleration acts on the crank arm. In the detection by the accelerometer 116, therefore, only this last term, i.e. the gravitational acceleration g, is considered.​

[0144] Accelerometer 116 is configured to detect the gravitational acceleration g of crank arm 20 in a plane of rotation defined by axes x and y, which correspond to the detection axes of accelerometer 116.

[0145] Accelerometer 116 therefore detects two components of acceleration g acting along its perpendicular detection axes x and y, respectively. x and g y More specifically, the component of acceleration g, g x and g y Defined by a corresponding value and sign (positive or negative), the sign indicating the direction of the component along the corresponding detection axis x or y.

[0146] like Figure 3 As shown, axis x is defined as oriented along the axial direction of the arm of crank arm 20, while axis y is oriented tangentially to the arm of crank arm 20. The positive sense of the detection axis x of accelerometer 116 is fixed here as radially outward toward the pedal of crank arm 20, while the positive sense of axis y is fixed in the same manner as the rotation direction of crank arm 20.

[0147] Figure 4 This shows the component of the gravitational acceleration g of the crank arm 20, detected by the accelerometer 116, when the rotational angle θ of the crank arm about its axis of rotation (passing through the pin 24 of the crank arm) changes. x (t) and g y A chart of the qualitative trend of (t), which is time-dependent and therefore indicated as θ(t).

[0148] The components of acceleration g detected along the detection axes x and y of accelerometer 116 x (t) and g y (t) exhibits a sinusoidal tendency that is offset from each other by 90°. For example, as in Figure 4 As can be seen in the component g x At the positive or negative peak of the trend of (t), the component g y (t) is zero, and vice versa.

[0149] Figure 5 The diagram schematically shows the crank arms 20 (chainring 22 omitted for simplicity) in four corner positions relative to the bicycle's running surface 50, the corner positions being the angular positions that the crank arms 20 sequentially present during the pedaling motion applied by the cyclist.

[0150] As is customary, the first angle position a) is during the rotation of crank arm 20 (in Figure 5Starting from the first angular position a), the crank arm 20 sequentially passes through the other angular positions b) 90°, c) 180°, and d) 270°, with the crank arm 20 fixed at 0° relative to the ground (occurring in a clockwise direction). During the rotation of the crank arm 20, the detection axes x and y of the accelerometer fixed to the crank arm 20 also rotate.

[0151] like Figure 4 As shown, at these four corner positions a), b), c), and d), the acceleration component g detected by accelerometer 116 along the x-axis is... x The values ​​are successively taken as 0, +g, 0, and –g, while the component g detected on the y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis is... y The values ​​are successively equal to +g, 0, –g, and 0.

[0152] The accelerometer 116 of the wake-up unit 14 is programmed to... Figure 4 The component g shown x (t) and component g y A wake-up signal, hereinafter also referred to as a wake-up interrupt, is emitted at either the positive or negative peak of (t). Figure 5 Any one of the four corner positions shown: a) 0°, b) 90°, c) 180°, and d) 270°.

[0153] For example, the predetermined wake-up condition can be set to specifically correspond to the angular position of the crank arm 20 in case c), i.e., 180°. This means that in order for the processor 116 to be woken up by the wake-up signal sent by the accelerometer 116 of the wake-up unit 14, the cyclist must rotate the crank arm 180° from the angular position at 0° relative to the ground (case a), through the angular position at 90° (case b), until reaching the angular position at 180° (case c). Only when this predetermined angular position is reached will the wake-up unit issue a wake-up signal, and the processor can enter the operating mode.

[0154] As per the following text Figure 6 The description will become clearer when the crank arm 20 enters the angular variable or angular tolerance around the aforementioned specific angular position, it is considered that the predetermined angular position has been reached, so as to take into account a certain positional tolerance.

[0155] Similarly, to express this tolerance in terms of acceleration, once the accelerometer detects the two components g... x and g yIf one of the components (basically, the non-zero component of the two components) exceeds the minimum acceleration threshold in magnitude (and is matched with the corresponding positive or negative sign), then the predetermined angular position is considered to have been reached. At the predetermined angular position of 180° ( Figure 4 In the specific case of case c), when the accelerometer 116 detects the negative component g... y When the magnitude exceeds the minimum acceleration threshold, the wake-up condition has been triggered.

[0156] For example, the corresponding components of acceleration g x and g y The minimum acceleration thresholds Tx and Ty are determined by the following formulas (1) and (2) with reference to... Figure 3 Defined by the triangular construction:

[0157] Tx = │g*sin(θ)│ (1)

[0158] Ty = │g*cos(θ)│ (2)

[0159] Those skilled in the art will be able to select the most suitable Tx and Ty values ​​each time based on a predetermined angular position defined by angle θ and based on the sampling frequency of the accelerometer.

[0160] To enhance the strength of the wake-up mechanism, the predetermined wake-up condition preferably includes a minimum duration t for which the acceleration component is higher than the corresponding minimum acceleration threshold Tx or Ty. min Basically, acceleration values ​​above the threshold are only considered valid if they are maintained for a time longer than the minimum time t. min Only when the accelerometer 116 is at this time will it consider this value to generate an interrupt. The minimum time t... min The filter provided acts as a filter to remove possible random fluctuations and short periods of acceleration values.

[0161] Advantageously, according to the invention, the processor 12 is configured to update the predetermined wake-up conditions of the wake-up unit 14, specifically the predetermined angular position. The processor 12 performs this operation each time after the previous wake-up and preferably just before entering standby mode, so as to define different updated angular positions of the crank arm 20 starting from the predetermined angular position used at the time of the previous wake-up.

[0162] According to the wake-up update pattern described above, the updated angle position is specifically moved by 90° relative to the previously used predetermined angle position. For example, in a practical situation, if the last wake-up occurred at 0° ( Figure 5 In case a), at the predetermined angular position, the processor's subsequent wake-up signal will be emitted by the accelerometer 116 at 90° ( Figure 5 This occurs at the corner position of case b).

[0163] Alternatively, the system can be configured to implement the sleep-wake update mode described above, in which case the updated angular position is moved by 90° relative to the angular position presented by the crank arm 20 when the processor 12 first entered the standby phase. For example, if the processor 12 sleeps at 0° ( Figure 5 In case a), at the predetermined angular position, the processor's subsequent wake-up signal will be emitted by the accelerometer 116 at 90° ( Figure 5 This occurs at the corner position of case b).

[0164] Now refer to Figure 6 An example describing the definition of the updated angular position of crank arm 20 based on the sleep-wake mode.

[0165] In the configuration shown, the processor of the electronic device 100 supported by the crank arm 20 (not visible here) is in standby mode because the crank arm 20 is in the angular position indicated by REF in the figure, which does not coincide with the predetermined angular position P corresponding to the wake-up condition.

[0166] Specifically, the predetermined angular position P shown here is related to... Figure 5 The positions at 90° in case b) coincide. When crank arm 20 enters the tolerance angle defined by the surrounding angle position P (indicated as θ in the figure). 唤醒 And in the minimum time t min When the position remains within the angular variable, it is considered that the angular position P has been reached, and therefore the wake-up condition has occurred.

[0167] Tolerance angle θ 唤醒 The endpoints E1 and E2 are specifically identified by two angular variables α and β, originating from the reference position REF of the crank arm. These two angular variables α and β are preferably defined by the following relationship:

[0168] β= π+α (3)

[0169] Thus, the tolerance angle θ 唤醒 Centered on the predetermined angular position P.

[0170] However, in alternative embodiments, completely independent angular variables α and β can be provided, and a tolerance angle θ not centered at the predetermined angular position P can also be obtained. 唤醒 .

[0171] The aforementioned wake-up mechanism is very effective in minimizing the chances of the processor 12 of the electronic device 100 being woken up undesirably.

[0172] The Applicant has indeed verified that the chance that an involuntary movement or vibration of a bicycle component, in this example the crank arm 20, not corresponding to the rotation imparted by the pedalling movement of the cyclist, is able to meet such wake-up condition and cause an unwanted wake-up of the processor 12 of the electronic device 100 is effectively minimised, advantageously saving the charge of the battery power supply unit that powers the device 100 and its components, by updating, i.e. modifying, the wake-up condition for emitting the subsequent wake-up signal each time.

[0173] In particular, since the update of the wake-up condition involves the modification of the angular position of the bicycle component at which the wake-up signal is emitted, the chance that the component randomly moves to the updated angular position, which each time is different from the previous one, is significantly reduced, if not substantially eliminated.

[0174] In other words, the unwanted and repeated vibrations or movements along the same axis and / or in the same direction, for example, which can occur when the bicycle is transported on a vehicle and subjected to vibrations, are prevented from causing the wake-up of the processor 12 in an unwanted manner.

[0175] This is important since each wake-up involves a much greater consumption compared to the standby state and, therefore, a greater consumption of the battery power supply unit and a shorter life of the electronic device 100.

[0176] For example, the described wake-up mechanism is particularly suitable for use in a power meter on the crank arm 20 or other transmission component, since this type of power meter must necessarily pass through specific angular positions in a specific order, limited by the fact that the cyclist must pedal the pedals to generate power.

[0177] Moreover, the sleep-wake-up update mode described above is particularly advantageous since it further reduces the chance of unwanted wake-up of the processor 12. In fact, the updated angular position is prevented from being defined accidentally at the last angular sleep position of the processor 12.

[0178] The above-described advantages can be better understood from a comparison between Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0179] Figure 7 A trend of the acceleration detected by the accelerometer along a single detection axis in the presence of unwanted vibrations and generation of wake-up interruptions is shown according to the prior art.

[0180] Figure 8 A trend of the acceleration components g x and g y of the crank arm 20 in the presence of unwanted vibrations and generation of wake-up interruptions is shown according to the application.

[0181] Applicant has observed that in known wake-up systems Figure 7 in which the wake-up interrupt generated by the accelerometer occurs each time after detecting an acceleration value higher than a threshold, but still detected along the same detection direction, are prone to cause unwanted wake-ups of the processor. In fact, since the wake-up condition always remains the same, if the unwanted movement persists and generates accelerations higher than the threshold (for example, during the transport of the bicycle on the roof of a vehicle, and in the case of vertical jolts due to the passage on uneven roads), the processor will be woken up by the false interrupts I generated by the accelerometer many times, causing a useless consumption of the battery that powers the components.

[0182] As clear from the above Figure 8 , on the other hand, the wake-up mechanism according to the present application advantageously allows to avoid unwanted wake-ups, since it provides to modify the wake-up condition at the start of each sleep of the processor 12, in particular the definition of the updated angular position of the crank arm 20, and more particularly, shifted by 90° with respect to the predetermined angular position used at the last wake-up.

[0183] In particular, if the crank arm is subjected to repeated random vibrations (for example, during the transport of the bicycle on a vehicle), even if a single first random wake-up occurs (for example at the predetermined angular position of 0°, Figure 5 case a) in the above, and the time in which the acceleration component g y exceeds the minimum acceleration threshold T y is longer than said minimum time t min , but thanks to the update of the wake-up condition operated by the processor 12 before entering the standby mode (for example, on the updated angular position of 90° Figure 5 case b) in the above, the accelerometer is still prevented from generating further unwanted wake-up interrupts.

[0184] Figure 9 A flowchart 200 related to the method of operating the electronic device 100 provided with the wake-up unit 14 according to the preferred embodiment of the present application is shown. The flowchart in particular shows a program that can be executed by the processor 12 of the electronic device 100.

[0185] In this embodiment, the electronic device 100 implements a power meter, and therefore it also comprises one or more stress / strain detectors (in particular in the form of strain gauges), an analog-digital converter, a communication module and a volatile / non-volatile memory that stores the wake-up condition.

[0186] In block 202, the processor 12 wakes up and switches to the running mode.

[0187] The first execution of the block 202 can occur, for example, after the wake-up unit 14 receives a wake-up signal (see block 228), or can be caused by the switching on of a toggle switch (not shown), or by the insertion of the electronic device 100 into a battery power supply unit (not shown).

[0188] In the block 202, the device 100 switches from the standby state (represented at blocks 226 and 228) to the start and initial configuration state (blocks 204, 205 and 206).

[0189] In the standby state of the device 100, the accelerometer 116 is switched on in a low consumption / wake-up mode (for example, 8 bits, reduced sampling at 10 Hz) suitable to ensure the generation and transmission of a wake-up signal to the processor 12. Furthermore, in the standby state of the device 100, also a small part of the processor 12 (called "sensing unit") which consumes very little for monitoring the inputs is preferably kept switched on in order to detect the wake-up signal from the accelerometer 116 in the event of a wake-up condition. Furthermore, it is possible to switch on other possible components of the electronic device 100, like for example the protection circuit of the battery power supply unit (if present in the device 100).

[0190] Subsequently, in the block 204, the processor 12 starts the initial configuration procedure in which it configures itself and is responsible for setting up the auxiliary electronics.

[0191] In particular, in the block 204, some parts of the processor 12 are preferably switched on, like for example the clock unit (RTC) and the data communication peripherals (for example of the SPI or I2C type) in communication with the accelerometer 116, which are intended for monitoring whether the rotation of the crank arm 20 has been detected at the block 208.

[0192] In the subsequent block 205, the processor 12 configures the accelerometer 116 (or in general the wake-up unit 14) so that it operates in a partial run / monitoring mode suitable to detect the rotation of the crank arm 20. In particular, in this partial run / monitoring mode, the accelerometer 116 is suitable to send an interrupt to the processor 12 each time there is a change of quadrant of the crank arm 20 (i.e. each time the crank arm 20 rotates by another 90°). This is obtained due to the fact that, in this mode, upon receiving each interrupt from the accelerometer 116, the processor 12 is suitable to modify the configuration of the accelerometer 116 so that the next interrupt is sent from the accelerometer 116 to the processor 12 at an angle of 90° with respect to the previous interrupt.

[0193] The accuracy and sampling frequency of the accelerometer 116 when it is in the partial run / monitoring mode is higher than in the aforementioned low consumption / wake-up mode, but lower than in the full wake mode, in which the accelerometer is instead reaching high accuracy and sampling frequency (e.g. 12 bits / 400 Hz or higher).

[0194] In a subsequent block 208, the processor 12 verifies whether the output of the accelerometer 116 of the wake-up unit 14 indicates a rotation of the crank arm 20.

[0195] In a subsequent block 208, the processor 12 verifies whether the output of the accelerometer 116 of the wake-up unit 14 indicates a rotation of the crank arm 20.

[0196] Within block 208, for a rotation to be detected by the processor 12, it is necessary for a certain number of subsequent interrupts to occur one after the other, for example after the crank arm 20 has passed 90° and then 180°, at a frequency corresponding to the minimum rotation pace. The time distance between two consecutive interrupts is for example 3 seconds, which corresponds to a minimum rotation pace of 20 revolutions / minute.

[0197] If the result of block 208 is negative, i.e. if the processor 12 has not detected any rotation, the method moves to block 220 in which it is verified whether the time T1 is equal to or greater than a first timeout time Timeout1. For example, 10 s < Timeout1 < 30 s.

[0198] If the result of block 220 is negative, the method returns to the verification of block 208 (see above) and the processor 12 simply waits for a rotation event of the crank arm 20.

[0199] If the result of block 220 is positive, i.e. if the first timeout time Timeout1 has been exceeded, the method moves to block 222.

[0200] During the execution of blocks 208 and 220 of the method 200, the electronic device 100 is in a monitoring state in which the accelerometer 116 is in a higher consumption state and works at a sampling frequency (e.g. 10 bits, 50 Hz) necessary to detect a rotation of the crank arm 20, which is greater than the sampling frequency in the standby state of the electronic device 100 (e.g. equal to 8 bits, 10 Hz), in which the accelerometer 116 operates in low consumption / wake-up mode and must only detect whether there has been a movement. Furthermore, the processor 12 is partially working.

[0201] If the result of block 208 is positive, in other words if the processor 12 detects a rotation of the crank arm 20, at block 210 the electronic device 100 enters an active or full wake-up state, which it remains in during the entire execution of blocks 210-218 of the method 200. At block 210, the processor 12 configures the accelerometer 116 so that it sends to the processor 12 the data necessary to detect the pedaling cadence, for the purpose of subsequent calculation of the torque and / or power, increasing the precision and sampling frequency of the accelerometer, for example to 12 bits, 400 Hz. Furthermore, the processor 12 suspends the operation of modifying the angular range of the interruption of the accelerometer 116 described above with reference to block 205.

[0202] Furthermore, again at block 210, the processor 12 is responsible for switching on all the peripheral devices necessary for the operation of the device 100 (for example, the communication module, the analog-digital converter, the reading unit of the possible LEDs, the stress / strain detector).

[0203] In the next block 212, the second time counter T2 is reset.

[0204] Therefore, at block 214, the processor 12 performs the calculation of the pedaling torque exerted by the cyclist on the crank arm 20 on the basis of the force obtained by the stress / strain detector, the calculation of the pedaling cadence on the basis of the data obtained by the accelerometer 116, and the calculation of the pedaling power on the basis of the calculated torque and cadence.

[0205] In the next block 216, the processor 12 verifies whether at least one or both of the calculated cadence and torque are equal to zero.

[0206] In the negative case, the method returns to block 212 in which the time counter T2 is reset and to the next block 214.

[0207] On the other hand, if the verification of block 216 has a positive result, in other words if at least one of the cadence and torque is zero, at block 218 it is verified whether the second time counter T2 has exceeded a second timeout time Timeout2. For example, 10 < Timeout2 < 30 s.

[0208] In the positive result of the verification of block 218, i.e. if the second timeout time Timeout2 has been exceeded, the method returns to block 205, making the accelerometer 116 return to the partial running / monitoring mode, resetting the time counter T1 (block 206), and then returning to verify whether the accelerometer has detected another rotation of the crank arm 20 in block 208.

[0209] On the other hand, in the case of a negative verification in box 218, in other words, if time T2 does not exceed the second timeout time Timeout2, the method again switches to performing calculations at box 214. In this way, processor 12 takes into account the fact that during normal use of the bicycle, there are moments when the crank arm does not enter rotation, but only temporarily, such as at traffic lights, downhill, or when decelerating.

[0210] It should be observed that, in the case of a positive result from the verification at box 218, the method specifies that: moving from box 218 to box 205 (and, for example, not directly to box 222), thus switching from the fully awake state of electronic device 100 to the monitoring state. This allows for avoiding a direct switch to the standby state of electronic device 100 in cases where the cyclist might start pedaling again shortly after stopping and exceeding the timeout 2 limit (e.g., after traveling a certain distance downhill without pedaling or after a brief maintenance stop).

[0211] In fact, if the pedal time is relatively short, it is more energy-efficient to remain in monitoring mode rather than switch to standby mode, as a complete shutdown and subsequent restart involves initial energy consumption peaks. In any case, it is permissible to move directly from box 218 to box 222.

[0212] Returning to the verification in box 220, if the result is positive, method 200 moves to the next box 222, where processor 12 defines the updated wake-up condition, which in this case is represented by the updated angular position. This is achieved by updating the minimum acceleration threshold T. x T y The magnitude of the acceleration components g along the two detection axes x and y x and g y The pointer (positive or negative) is updated, and possibly also the minimum time threshold t that remains above the acceleration threshold is updated. min The processor 12 performs the update of the wake-up conditions.

[0213] In the next box 224, the processor 12 prepares the device 100 to shut down by executing routine shutdown procedures for various electronic components to put itself and the device 100 into standby mode.

[0214] During the execution of method 200, blocks 222-224, the electronic device 100 is in a powered-off state, which causes the processor 12 to enter a standby mode (block 226) and the device 100 to enter a standby state (blocks 226 and 228).

[0215] Once the electronic device has entered the standby mode at block 226, the processor 12, and in particular its sensing unit, remains active to ensure monitoring of its inputs, in particular verifying (block 228) the reception by the accelerometer 116 of a possible wake-up signal.

[0216] In the case of a negative outcome of the test, the processor 12 returns to block 226 and remains in the standby state.

[0217] On the other hand, if the verification of block 228 is positive and a wake-up signal is detected, the method starts again from block 202.

[0218] To further enhance the wake-up mode of the processor 12, in alternative embodiments of the application, the processor 12 and / or the wake-up unit 14 can be suitably configured so that the wake-up signal is sent to the processor 12 only in the case of a "repeated" wake-up condition (block 228).

[0219] For example, in a first scenario, the wake-up unit 14 can be configured so that it sends the wake-up signal directly to the processor 12 only after a predetermined number N of crossings (in other words, rotations through) of a previously defined predetermined angular position of the crank arm 20 has been counted (by means of a counter internal to the wake-up device). In an analogous manner, the wake-up unit 14 can be configured so that it sends the wake-up signal directly to the processor 12 only after a predetermined number N of quadrant changes of the crank arm (in other words, N movements of 90° from a previously determined predetermined angular position) has been counted. To detect these different crossings, the accelerometer 116 can work at a slightly higher sampling frequency than in the general case described above, which leads to a slightly greater energy consumption of the accelerometer 116 when the device 100 is in the standby state. This scenario assumes some computational functionality internal to the wake-up unit 14.

[0220] In a second scenario, the processor 12 can be configured so that the switching of the processor 12 from the standby mode to the running mode (from block 228 to block 202) occurs only after a plurality of repeated wake-up signals has been received by the wake-up unit 14 and in particular by the accelerometer 116. This second scenario requires that a pulse counter entered into the processor 12 is able to operate also in the case of partial shutdown of the processor.

[0221] Although in the foregoing detailed description reference has been made mainly to a wake-up unit comprising an accelerometer acting as a sensor, the application is also suitable, with the necessary modifications, for a wake-up unit comprising a sensor of a different type, such as for example a magnetic field sensor (more preferably integrated), an inclinometer, a gyroscope, a pressure sensor or a load cell.

[0222] Moreover, although reference is made mainly to the crank arm, the present application can be adapted equally to other components of the bicycle, such as moving components of the bicycle, preferably rotating components, more preferably other components of the transmission mechanism of the bicycle, like for example the pedal, the crank arm on the transmission side, the toothed disc, the middle axle shaft, the flywheel body of the gear set or the chain wheel.

[0223] Therefore, based on the type of bicycle component supporting the electronic device 10, 100 and on the type of sensor 16 comprised in the wake-up unit 14, the wake-up condition can comprise, in addition to the predetermined angular position of the component around its own rotation axis, other conditions, like for example a predetermined position of the bicycle component with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, a predetermined inclination assumed by the bicycle and / or by the bicycle component with respect to a reference axis, a predetermined load acting on the bicycle component, etc.

[0224] For example, in other embodiments, the bicycle electronic device 10, 100 can implement a wireless communication system supported by the derailleur and / or by the relative controller associated therewith.

[0225] In this case, by way of example only, it can be provided that the sensor of the wake-up unit is intended to detect the inclination assumed by the bicycle with respect to a reference axis or with respect to the magnetic / gravitational field of the Earth. In this case, the wake-up condition comprises a respective predetermined inclination of the bicycle with respect to the aforementioned reference axis.

[0226] According to the present application, in this case the processor is preferably configured to update the subsequent wake-up condition according to a sleep-wake-up update mode each time before returning to the standby mode, defining an updated inclination of the bicycle indicative of the use condition.

[0227] In one practical example, if the processor of the electronic device enters the standby mode when the bicycle remains "lying down" on the ground for a certain period of time (i.e. under a sleep condition corresponding to a substantially horizontal inclination of the bicycle for a time threshold longer than a certain time), it can be provided to define the next wake-up condition with an updated vertical inclination, so that the processor wakes up only when the user lifts the bicycle from the ground in order to use it.

[0228] Or vice versa, if the processor of the electronic device enters the standby mode when the bicycle remains vertically positioned for a certain period of time (for example, fixed to a vehicle in order to be transported), it can be differently provided to define the next wake-up condition with an updated lateral inclination (for example, corresponding to the moment in which the user takes the bicycle off the vehicle and tilts it to ride it).

[0229] In yet other alternative embodiments, the bicycle electronic device 10, 100 can be supported by the seat post or by a bicycle shock absorber.

[0230] In these cases, the sensor of the wake-up unit can be implemented, for example, by a load cell adapted to detect the pressure / load acting on the saddle or, respectively, on the shock absorber. In the case of the shock absorber, a sensor can be provided which is adapted to detect the length variation of the rod of the shock absorber, like, for example, an optical sensor adapted to detect notches on the rod.

[0231] Thus, the wake-up condition can in this case comprise a predetermined load value acting on the seat post or on the shock absorber of the bicycle, or, in the case of the shock absorber, a predetermined length of the rod of the shock absorber, and the processor is thus configured to define, each time according to the sleep-wake-up update pattern, an updated wake-up condition indicative of the use of the bicycle.

[0232] For example, if the processor of the electronic device enters the standby mode and the "empty load" value, in other words the minimum load or zero load due to the user getting off the bicycle, remains for a certain period of time, an updated load value can be provided as an updated wake-up condition which corresponds to the minimum weight of the user acting on the saddle and / or on the shock absorber to a certain extent, so as to wake up the processor when the user gets back on the bicycle.

[0233] Or vice versa, if the processor of the electronic device enters the standby mode when the bicycle remains stationary for a certain period of time with the user on the saddle, the "empty load" value, in other words the minimum load or zero load, can be differently provided as an updated wake-up condition, since the user gives a start-up thrust upon getting up after a temporary stop.

[0234] Also in these other cases, by varying the wake-up condition, the wake-up mechanism can be implemented according to alternative, reliable and effective techniques. Moreover, it can be avoided that the electronics of the device are undesirably woken up due to vibrations or other conditions of the bicycle typically related, for example, to transport.

[0235] The above is a description of various embodiments of inventive aspects and can be further changed without departing from the scope of the invention. The shape and / or size and / or position and / or orientation of the various components and / or the order of the various steps can be changed. The functions of an element or module can be performed by two or more components or modules and vice versa. Components shown as directly connected or in contact can have intermediate structures arranged between the components. Steps shown as immediately consecutive can have intermediate steps performed between the steps. Details shown in the drawings and / or described with reference to the drawings or embodiments can be applied to other drawings or embodiments. Not all details shown in the drawings or described in the same context must necessarily be present in the same embodiment. Features or aspects of the innovation with respect to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, are considered to be described per se, regardless of what is explicitly described as being innovative.

Claims

1. A method of operating an electronic device associated with a bicycle component and comprising a processor and a wake-up unit, the method comprising the following steps, which are executable by the processor of the electronic device: - operating alternately in a standby mode and in a running mode, - switching from the standby mode to the running mode upon receiving a wake-up signal from the wake-up unit, under predetermined wake-up conditions, and - modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit by updating the predetermined wake-up conditions, before switching from the running mode to the standby mode, so that a subsequent wake-up signal is sent to the processor under the updated wake-up conditions.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The bicycle component is a bicycle moving component.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The bicycle component is a bicycle rotating component.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The bicycle component is a bicycle transmission component.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, The predetermined wake-up conditions comprise at least one condition selected from the group consisting of: a predetermined position of the bicycle component with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, a predetermined inclination assumed by the bicycle and / or the bicycle component with respect to a reference axis, a predetermined load acting on the bicycle component, a predetermined angular position assumed by the rotating bicycle component or by the bicycle transmission component during a rotational movement around an axis of rotation.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein, The wake-up unit comprises a sensor, and the method further comprises the following steps, which are executable by the wake-up unit of the electronic device: - detecting, by means of the sensor, a parameter associated with the bicycle component; and - sending the wake-up signal to the processor when the parameter detected by the sensor satisfies the predetermined wake-up conditions.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, In the step of modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit, the updated wake-up conditions are defined starting from the predetermined wake-up conditions or from the value assumed by the parameter detected by the wake-up unit when the processor switches from the running mode to the standby mode.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein, When the predetermined wake-up conditions comprise a predetermined angular position of the rotating bicycle component or of the bicycle transmission component, in the step of modifying the configuration of the wake-up unit, the predetermined wake-up conditions are updated to updated angular positions: - the updated angular positions are shifted by a predetermined update angle with respect to the predetermined angular position, or - the updated angular positions are shifted by a predetermined update angle with respect to the angular position assumed by the bicycle component when the processor switches from the running mode to the standby mode.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein, The parameter detected by the sensor of the wake-up unit comprises a first component of a vector measured along a first detection axis of the sensor, the first component of the vector being defined by a respective magnitude and a positive or negative sign, which represents the direction of the first component along the respective first detection axis.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The predetermined wake-up conditions provide that the first component of the vector measured along the first detection axis of the sensor exceeds, in magnitude, a first magnitude threshold of the vector and matches a positive or negative sign.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein, The parameter detected by the sensor of the wake-up unit further comprises a second component of the vector measured along a second detection axis of the sensor, the second component being defined by a respective magnitude and a positive or negative sign, the positive or negative sign representing the direction of the second component along the respective second detection axis.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The predetermined wake-up condition provides that: - the first component of the vector measured along the first detection axis of the sensor exceeds a first magnitude threshold of the vector in magnitude and matches a positive or negative sign; or - the second component of the vector measured along the second detection axis of the sensor exceeds a second magnitude threshold of the vector in magnitude and matches a positive or negative sign.

13. The method of claim 9 or 11, wherein, The sensor of the wake-up unit is an accelerometer and the detected vector is an acceleration.

14. The method according to claim 4, further comprising the step, executable by the processor of the electronic device, of switching from the running mode to the standby mode in a sleep condition, the sleep condition comprising at least one condition selected from the group consisting of: a predetermined position of the bicycle component with respect to a fixed reference element of the bicycle, a predetermined inclination assumed by the bicycle and / or the bicycle component with respect to a reference axis, a predetermined load acting on the bicycle component, a duration of a predetermined angular position assumed by the rotating bicycle component or the bicycle transmission component during a rotational movement about a rotation axis longer than a time threshold; and an absence of rotational movement of the rotating bicycle component or the bicycle transmission component for a time longer than a time threshold.

15. A bicycle component comprising an electronic device, the electronic device comprising: - a processor adapted to operate alternately in a standby mode and in a running mode, and - a wake-up unit operatively connected to the processor and configured to send a wake-up signal to the processor in a predetermined wake-up condition to switch from the standby mode to the running mode, characterized in that, before switching from the running mode to the standby mode, the processor is adapted to modify the configuration of the wake-up unit each time by updating the predetermined wake-up condition, so that a subsequent wake-up signal is sent to the processor in the updated wake-up condition.

16. The bicycle component of claim 15, wherein, The bicycle component is a bicycle moving component.

17. The bicycle component of claim 15, wherein, The bicycle component is a bicycle rotating component.

18. The bicycle component of claim 15, wherein, The bicycle component is a bicycle transmission component.

19. The bicycle component according to claim 18, the bicycle transmission component being selected from the group consisting of: a crank arm, a pedal, a spider guide rod of a crank arm on the transmission side, a sprocket, a bottom bracket axle, a freewheel body of a gear set, a chainring.

20. The bicycle component of claim 15, wherein, The wake-up unit comprises a sensor configured to detect a parameter associated with the bicycle component, and wherein the wake-up unit is configured to send the wake-up signal to the processor when the parameter detected by the sensor satisfies the predetermined wake-up condition.

21. The bicycle component of claim 20, wherein, The sensors are selected from the group consisting of: accelerometers, magnetic field sensors, inclinometers, gyroscopes, pressure sensors, load sensors.

22. The bicycle component of claim 21, wherein, The magnetic field sensors are integrated.

23. The bicycle component of claim 15, wherein, The electronic device comprises one or more electronic components selected from the group consisting of: at least one stress / strain detector, a cadence detector, an analog-to-digital converter, a communication module, an external / internal temperature sensor, a volatile / non-volatile memory, a battery power supply unit, a connector, a battery charging and current and / or voltage limiting circuit, a protection circuit of the battery power supply unit, one or more light indicators, a control device of an electromechanical or electro-hydraulic actuator.

24. The bicycle component of claim 15, wherein, The electronic device implements or is an integral part of a torque meter and / or a power meter and / or a wireless communication system and / or an electromechanical or electro-hydraulic actuator. The electronic device comprises one or more electronic components selected from the group consisting of: at least one stress / strain detector, a cadence detector, an analog-to-digital converter, a communication module, an external / internal temperature sensor, a volatile / non-volatile memory, a battery power supply unit, a connector, a battery charging and current and / or voltage limiting circuit, a protection circuit of the battery power supply unit, one or more light indicators, a control device of an electromechanical or electro-hydraulic actuator. The electronic device implements or is an integral part of a torque meter and / or a power meter and / or a wireless communication system and / or an electromechanical or electro-hydraulic actuator.

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