Modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles

Abstract

A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, characterized by comprising a mounting block (1) that integrates a sealed compartment (2) housing electrical and electronic components and supplying power and control to a plurality of lighting devices (3) and light signaling devices (4), the sealed compartment including at least one battery.

Description

Modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles OBJECT OF THE INVENTION The invention, as the title of this specification indicates, is a modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles. It is an innovation that offers advantages previously unknown within current technologies. TECHNICAL SECTOR The present invention falls within the sector of diverse industrial techniques and transport, in the subclass of land vehicles that move in a manner other than on rails, especially in saddles or seats for cycles and auxiliary devices or accessories specially adapted to cycles not provided for elsewhere, for example, luggage racks and mudguards, specifically in arrangements of optical signaling or lighting devices on the cycles, their mounting or support and their circuits. STATE OF THE ART The present invention arises from observing the growing number of bicycles and scooters that circulate daily on streets and roads, both in urban and rural environments. While progress has been made in recent years in creating dedicated lanes for these types of vehicles, there are still numerous areas where cyclists and light vehicle riders must share the road with motorized traffic. This situation poses a significant risk, especially in low visibility conditions or at night, where the lack of adequate lighting and signage can lead to accidents or unexpected maneuvers. In practice, it has been found that many of these vehicles lack a complete signaling system that allows the rider to clearly communicate their intentions to other road users. Most bicycles and scooters, both electric and conventional, only include a front light and a rear position light, lacking essential devices such as brake lights or turn signals. Furthermore, in non-electric models, the lights are often powered by a dynamo or alternator, turning off when the vehicle stops, precisely when it needs to be most visible. Furthermore, since a specific driver's license is not required for these types of vehicles, many users are unaware of the mandatory hand signals they should use to indicate turns or stops. This leads to poor communication with drivers of other vehicles, increasing the risk of collisions and reducing the safety of both the cyclist or scooter rider and other road users. Accordingly, the present invention proposes a modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, designed to compactly and functionally integrate a set of electrical and electronic devices aimed at increasing vehicle visibility, optimizing communication with the environment, and raising road safety levels. Currently, there is no known modular lighting and signaling system for cycles and light vehicles that has structural and constitutive technical characteristics equal or similar to those described in this descriptive report, as claimed. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention is the creation of a modular lighting and signaling system for cycles and light vehicles that provides a notable innovation within its field of application in the current state of the art, the characterizing details that make it possible being conveniently included in the final claims that accompany this description. The invention relates to a modular lighting and signaling system for cycles and light vehicles comprising at least one mounting block that integrates a sealed compartment intended to house electrical and electronic components necessary for the operation of a plurality of lighting, light signaling and acoustic devices arranged in the mounting block, in the housing of the sealed compartment and / or in the structure of the vehicle. providing power and control to a plurality of lighting and signaling devices arranged on the vehicle structure, such as bicycles or scooters, in order to improve their visibility and safety while driving. This invention solves the visibility and communication problems of bicycle and light vehicle users by providing an integrated system that allows for clear and continuous signaling of their position and maneuvers, increasing safety for both the drivers themselves and the rest of the traffic. This innovation provides practical benefits by improving the predictability of light vehicle movements, facilitating traffic in urban environments and roads with limited specific infrastructure, and contributing to safer and more reliable driving, reducing the risk of accidents and improving interaction with other road users. The mounting block is proposed to be a pre-existing structural element of the vehicle into which the watertight compartment is integrated. This structural element can be either a front basket or a rear transport trunk. The mounting block can also be a rectangular or prism-shaped casing, or one designed to fit the chosen location, installed on the bicycle frame, allowing these elements to be incorporated according to the desired vehicle configuration. This arrangement facilitates installation adaptable to different types of vehicles, ensuring that the power and signaling systems are centralized and protected from inclement weather and everyday use. The basket may also have lighting or signaling devices on its exterior. These may include a high-beam headlight, front left and right turn signals, an electric horn, and signal lights embedded in the basket, providing greater visibility and communication of the vehicle's maneuvers to other road users. This allows drivers and pedestrians to immediately perceive the position and maneuvers of the vehicle, increasing safety in urban and rural environments where visibility may be limited. Similarly, the trunk may have lighting and signaling devices on its exterior, which may include a rear position light, a brake light, left and right turn signals and signal lights embedded in the base housing and / or lid, contributing to a clear indication of the presence and actions of the vehicle. This directly contributes to reducing the risk of accidents, making the driver's maneuvers more predictable for the rest of the traffic. Similarly, the trunk or basket can incorporate an external electric lock for activating the system and a mechanical lock for opening it, increasing security and access control to the contents. This feature ensures that electronic devices and signaling elements are protected against unauthorized tampering, preventing damage or misuse. The watertight compartment is envisaged to comprise a rectangular or prism-shaped housing, or one designed to fit the chosen location within the vehicle structure. It will have a hermetically sealed lid, be constructed of rigid, lightweight materials, and be designed to protect the electrical and electronic components from water, dust, and vibrations, thus ensuring the integrity and durability of the internal systems. This protection guarantees system reliability, even under demanding operating conditions or in harsh environments. On the other hand, the watertight compartment can also be integrated into the same structure of the basket or trunk, forming part of the structural body of the material that forms said basket or trunk. Likewise, the watertight compartment can be configured to operate individually, decoupled from the mounting block, acting as an independent unit fixed to the central panel, at the front or rear of the vehicle, and the different lighting and signaling lights can be recessed into the housing, offering flexibility in its installation. This autonomous operation capability allows users to adapt the modular system to vehicles with different configurations without losing functionality or safety. Furthermore, the electrical and electronic components housed in the watertight compartment may include a power supply battery, a charger, a flasher unit, an electrical and / or electronic control circuit, a main switch, a keyed lock with an electrical switch for connecting and disconnecting the modular system's power supply, and power outlets for external devices, enabling comprehensive power supply and control. It may also include a keyed lock for opening. This arrangement ensures that all lighting and signaling devices operate in a coordinated and efficient manner. The sealed compartment can also be linked to a control panel mounted on the vehicle's handlebars, facilitating direct operation by the driver. This provides intuitive management of all systems, enabling a quick and effective response to signaling needs while driving. Additionally, it can be connected to an analog or digital display, also mounted on the handlebars, that provides information on the various functions of the modular system. Additionally, the electrical and / or electronic control circuit of the watertight compartment can be powered by the internal battery of the watertight compartment, the main battery of the vehicle, or an auxiliary dynamo or alternator, incorporating voltage regulation means to ensure a stable supply adapted to the different components installed on the bicycle or scooter. This ability to receive multiple power sources ensures that the system continues to operate safely, even in situations of power supply failure. The sealed compartment can also include a braking sensor and auxiliary ports for connecting external devices, such as mobile phones, video cameras, or GPS receivers, allowing integration with additional systems and improving the vehicle's overall functionality. This expands the system's versatility, offering more comprehensive signaling services tailored to modern mobility needs. Similarly, a single sealed compartment within a mounting block can be sufficient to power and control all of the vehicle's electrical and electronic devices, eliminating the need for additional sealed compartments in simplified configurations while maintaining all the functions of the modular system. This centralization optimizes resource utilization and simplifies system maintenance. Furthermore, the watertight compartment can be installed as a standalone unit on the front or rear of the bicycle or scooter, as well as on the bicycle frame. It can also be recessed into the bicycle or scooter basket or integrated into the rear trunk, forming a single unit in these cases. This installation versatility allows the system to be adapted to different vehicle structural configurations, optimizing component layout and facilitating integration without compromising functionality or overall stability. The mounting block can be interconnected with another mounting block and / or with a sealed compartment that operates independently, using a minimal number of cables, facilitating efficient assembly, disassembly, and maintenance. This allows the system to be scalable and easily adaptable to different light vehicle models. The modular lighting and signaling system comprises, in addition to the watertight compartments and mounting blocks, a control switch box located on the handlebars, a brake sensor linked to the vehicle's braking system, and interconnecting electrical cables and / or hoses distributed throughout the panel. The system also includes brackets for securing the front, rear, and intermediate blocks, along with auxiliary supports for cables, mechanisms, and fasteners for the various devices, facilitating a neat, safe, and adaptable installation for different vehicle configurations. The proposal suggests that the assembly blocks can be manufactured in standard models or adapted to the shape, dimensions, and aesthetics of different types of vehicles, ensuring compatibility and consistency with diverse structures. This design flexibility increases the system's adoption in different environments and among various types of users. Similarly, the backup battery housed in the watertight compartment can supply power to the vehicle's lighting and signaling system after the main battery of the electric vehicle is depleted, providing additional autonomy and ensuring the continuous operation of the safety systems even on long journeys or under limited power conditions. Furthermore, lighting and light signaling devices can be made up of low-consumption LED diodes, configured to provide high brightness with reduced current consumption, or incandescent bulbs, depending on the user's preference, allowing adaptation to different tastes and energy needs, while maintaining efficient energy consumption. Finally, the watertight compartment can incorporate a battery charge indicator equipped with a voltmeter and ammeter, allowing the user to monitor the available power and efficiently manage the use of electrical devices. This feature provides critical information for planning energy usage and preventing interruptions to lighting and signaling systems. Alternatively, these devices can be mounted on the handlebars for easy reading via an analog or digital display showing the battery voltage and amperage. To use the modular lighting and signaling system, one or more mounting blocks and / or one or more watertight compartments must be installed in the desired position on the vehicle, ensuring that all elements are properly secured and protected. Next, the various lighting, light signaling and acoustic devices must be connected to the control system of the watertight compartment, and to the handlebar switch box (and the analog or digital function display if installed) using the necessary wiring. To activate the modular system (once the batteries in the waterproof compartment are charged via the charger or the electric vehicle's main battery), simply activate the power source using the key in the electric lock and use the switch box to manage the on / off state and select functions according to visibility and maneuverability needs. Optionally, the user can connect the dynamo or alternator to charge the batteries in the waterproof compartment while using the bicycle. The user will be able to take advantage of the power outlets to power external devices and monitor the battery status using the integrated indicators, ensuring safe and continuous operation of the systems while driving. Overall, the invention allows for intuitive and centralized operation of all electrical and electronic elements, optimizing the safety and communication of the vehicle with its environment, without requiring complex interventions by the driver. EXPLANATION OF THE FIGURES To complete the description being made and in order to help in the better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, this descriptive report is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by some figures in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented. Figure 1 illustrates a front view of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the front basket of the vehicle. Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the front basket of the vehicle. Figure 3 illustrates a view of the interior of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the front basket of the vehicle. Figure 4 illustrates a front view of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the rear trunk of the vehicle. Figure 5 illustrates a side view of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the rear trunk of the vehicle. Figure 6 represents a top view of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the front basket of the vehicle. Figure 7 presents a front view of the mounting block integrated into the structural element corresponding to the front basket of the vehicle. Figure 8 shows a view of the watertight compartment. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION The modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles comprises at least one mounting block (1) that integrates a sealed compartment (2) for housing electrical and electronic components and supplying power and control to a plurality of lighting devices (3) and luminous (4) or acoustic signaling devices distributed throughout the structure of light vehicles, such as bicycles or scooters. The sealed compartment includes at least one battery. The system is designed to provide a comprehensive, safe, and protected installation, while ensuring high functionality and simplified maintenance. In a preferred embodiment, the mounting block (1) is a structural element of the vehicle, selected from either a front basket or a rear transport trunk into which the watertight compartment is inserted. It can also be a housing that integrates the watertight compartment and is installed on the bicycle frame, allowing the system to be adapted to the configuration and type of each vehicle. This integration ensures that the electrical components are properly protected while maintaining the aesthetics and functionality of the assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the basket may incorporate on its exterior the lighting devices (3), light signaling devices (4) and acoustic devices, which include at least a front high beam headlight, front right and left turn signal lights, an electric horn and signaling lights embedded in the grille and / or solid housing of said basket, all of them powered and controlled by the components housed in the watertight compartment (2) and operated by means of a switch box located on the handlebar. In this same preferred mode, the basket may incorporate on its exterior an electric lock (5) intended for the activation of the system, as well as a mechanical lock (6) intended to allow the opening of the watertight compartment (2), both being integrated into the structure of said basket and configured for operation by the user. In the same preferred mode, the rear trunk incorporates on its exterior lighting devices (3) and light signaling devices (4) comprising at least a rear position light, a brake light, left and right turn signals and signaling lights embedded in the base housing and / or in the trunk itself, offering optimal visibility and a design integrated with the vehicle structure. Similarly, the rear trunk and the basket can additionally incorporate on their exterior an electric lock (5) for activating the system and a mechanical lock (6) intended for opening the watertight compartment itself and, where applicable, the trunk, guaranteeing the security of both physical access to the compartment and the general electrical control of the system. Generally, the watertight compartment (2) comprises a housing of quadrangular, rectangular or prismatic configuration designed to fit the chosen installation location, provided with a hermetic lid (8), made of rigid and lightweight materials and designed to protect the electrical and electronic components from water, dust and vibrations, ensuring long durability and stable operation in adverse environmental conditions. In this preferred embodiment, the watertight compartment (2) can also be integrated as part of the same structure of the basket or trunk, constituting part of the structural body of the material that makes up said basket or trunk, so that the elements housed inside are protected from external agents without requiring additional enclosures. In another preferred embodiment, the watertight compartment (2) is configured to operate individually, decoupled from the mounting block (1), acting as an independent unit fixed to the vehicle frame by means of mounting brackets (7), and can be located in a central, front or rear position, according to the vehicle design and the user's needs, and the various lighting devices (3) and light signaling devices (4) can be installed recessed in the housing. Preferably, the electrical and electronic components housed in the watertight compartment (2) include at least a power supply battery, a charger, a flasher unit, an electrical and / or electronic control circuit, a main switch, a key lock provided with a main on / off electrical switch and power sockets for external devices, all arranged compactly and accessibly within the watertight compartment, and may also have a mechanical lock (6) for opening. Alternatively, the watertight compartment (2) is configured to power and control a plurality of lighting devices (3), light signaling devices (4) and acoustic devices (11) arranged in the mounting block (1), in the housing of the watertight compartment itself and / or in the vehicle structure, ensuring uniform power distribution and centralized management of the electrical system. Preferably, the watertight compartment (2) is controlled via a switch box located on the vehicle's handlebars, allowing the user to operate the lighting, signaling, and audible warning functions ergonomically and safely while driving. Additionally, it may be equipped with an analog or digital display, also located on the handlebars, to indicate the various control options and to show the voltage and amperage status of the compartment's batteries. In another preferred modality, the electrical and / or electronic control circuit of the watertight compartment (2) has the ability to receive power from both the internal battery of the watertight compartment and the main battery of the vehicle, or alternatively from an auxiliary dynamo or alternator, incorporating voltage regulation means in the watertight compartment itself to stabilize the electrical supply under all operating conditions. Alternatively, the watertight compartment (2) includes a braking sensor and auxiliary sockets for connecting external devices such as mobile phones, video cameras or GPS receivers, thus integrating additional comfort and connectivity functions for the user, and may also have a mechanical lock (6) for opening. Generally, a single watertight compartment (2) of a mounting block (1) is configured to power and control all of the vehicle's electrical and electronic devices, allowing other watertight compartments to be dispensed with in simplified configurations, without loss of functionality of the modular lighting and signaling system. In another preferred embodiment, the watertight compartment (2) can be installed as a separate unit on the front of the bicycle or scooter, on the rear of the same or on the bicycle frame, and can also be embedded in the bicycle or scooter basket forming a single unit, and / or installed inside the rear trunk of the bicycle also forming a single integrated unit. In another preferred embodiment, the mounting block (1) is interconnected with another mounting block and / or with a sealed compartment (2) that operates individually, by means of a minimum number of cables, which facilitates the assembly, disassembly and maintenance of the system and reduces the risk of breakdowns due to multiple connections. In another preferred embodiment, the modular lighting and signaling system includes, in addition to the watertight compartments (2) and the mounting blocks (1), a control switch box arranged on the handlebar, a brake sensor associated with the vehicle's brake system, interconnecting electrical cables and / or hoses distributed along the frame, and supports for securing (7) the front, rear, and intermediate blocks, as well as auxiliary supports for cables and the various mechanisms and fastening parts of the devices that make up the system. Generally, the mounting blocks (1) are manufactured in standard models or adapted to the shape, dimensions and aesthetics of different types of vehicles, allowing their harmonious integration into bicycles, scooters and other light means of transport. Preferably, the power supply battery housed in the watertight compartment (2) has the ability to supply power to the vehicle's lighting and signaling system even after the vehicle's main battery has run out, providing additional autonomy and increasing safety on the road. Alternatively, the lighting devices (3) and the light signaling devices (4) are made up of low-power LEDs, configured to provide high brightness with low current consumption, or alternatively incandescent bulbs according to the user's preference. In another preferred embodiment, the watertight compartment (2) incorporates a battery charge indicator provided with a voltmeter (9) and an ammeter (10), these devices being alternatively arranged on the handlebar to facilitate reading by means of an analog or digital display intended to indicate the voltage and amperage of the batteries. Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to make its explanation more extensive so that any expert in the field may understand its scope and the advantages that derive from it, it being noted that, within its essentiality, it may be put into practice in other modes of embodiment that differ in detail from the one indicated as an example, and which will also achieve the protection sought provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed or modified.

Claims

1. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, characterized by comprising a mounting block (1) that integrates a sealed compartment (2) housing electrical and electronic components and supplying power and control to a plurality of lighting devices (3) and light signaling devices (4), the sealed compartment including at least one battery.

2. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the mounting block (1) is a front basket or a rear transport trunk. 3.A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 2, characterized in that the basket incorporates on its exterior the lighting devices (3), the light signaling devices (4), and the acoustic devices (11), which include at least one front high beam headlight, front right and left turn signals, an electric horn, and signal lights.

4. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 2, characterized in that the basket incorporates on its exterior an electric lock (5) for activating the system and a mechanical lock (6) for opening the watertight compartment (2). 5.A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 2, characterized in that the trunk incorporates on its exterior the lighting devices (3) and the light signaling devices (4), which include at least one rear position light, one brake light, left and right turn signals, and signal lights.

6. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 2, characterized in that the trunk incorporates on its exterior an electric lock (5) for activating the system and a mechanical lock (6) for opening the watertight compartment.

7. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 2, characterized in that the watertight compartment (2) is integrated into the structure of the basket or trunk. 8.A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical and electronic components housed in the sealed compartment (2) include a charger and power outlets for external devices.

9. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealed compartment (2) is associated with a control switch box arranged on the vehicle's handlebars.

10. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical and / or electronic control circuit of the sealed compartment (2) is configured to receive power from both the internal battery of the sealed compartment (2) and the vehicle's main battery. 11.

11. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealed compartment (2) includes a brake sensor.

12. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the lighting devices (3) and the light signaling devices (4) are made up of LEDs.

13. A modular lighting and signaling system for bicycles and light vehicles, according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealed compartment (2) incorporates a battery charge indicator provided with a voltmeter (9) and an ammeter (10).