Control device for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

This invention provides a control device for a human-powered vehicle, the human-powered vehicle having a lever, an electric actuator, and a posture changing device. The lever includes a first coupling portion, a second coupling portion, and a movable portion movably coupled to the first coupling portion. The first coupling portion is configured to couple to a steering column. The second coupling portion is configured to couple to a handlebar. The movable portion moves by activating the electric actuator. The posture changing device changes the posture of a user of the human-powered vehicle. The control device includes an electric controller that controls the electric actuator based on at least one of a power input to the human-powered vehicle, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and an operating state of the posture changing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to a control device for a human-powered vehicle. More specifically, this invention relates to a control device for a human-powered vehicle having a control lever. Prior Technology

[0002] Some human-powered vehicles (specifically bicycles) sometimes have control devices for controlling one or more components of the vehicle. In recent years, some control devices have been proposed for controlling the state of one of the components of a human-powered vehicle according to a predetermined condition. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, this invention relates to various features of a control device for a human-powered vehicle. More specifically, this invention relates to a control device for a human-powered vehicle having a lever controlled by the control device according to a predetermined condition. The term "human-powered vehicle" as used herein refers to a vehicle that can be driven at least by human power, but does not include vehicles that use only a driving force other than human power. Specifically, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as a driving force are not included in human-powered vehicles. It is generally assumed that a human-powered vehicle is a small, lightweight vehicle that sometimes does not require a license to travel on a public road. The number of wheels on a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, a unicycle and a human-powered vehicle with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a freight bike, a recumbent bike, and an electric-assisted bicycle (electric bicycle).

[0004] In view of state-of-the-art technology and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a control device for a human-powered vehicle is provided, the human-powered vehicle having a lever, an electric actuator, and a posture changing device. The lever includes a first coupling portion, a second coupling portion, and a movable portion. The first coupling portion is configured to couple to a steering column. The second coupling portion is configured to couple to a handlebar. The movable portion couples the second coupling portion to the first coupling portion, such that the second coupling portion is movable relative to the first coupling portion between a first position and a second position. The second position is different from the first position. The electric actuator is configured to actuate the movable portion. The posture changing device is configured to change the posture of a user of the human-powered vehicle. The control device essentially includes an electric controller configured to selectively control the electric actuator based on at least one of a power input of the human-powered vehicle, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and an operating state of the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle.

[0005] Regarding the control device of the first state, the lever can be controlled so that a rider or occupant can be in an optimal position according to the operating status of one of the human-powered vehicles.

[0006] According to a second state of the present invention, the control device according to the first state is configured such that the second coupling portion located in the second position is lower than the second coupling portion located in the first position.

[0007] Regarding the control device in the second state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted between two different heights.

[0008] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to the first or second embodiment is configured such that the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a suspension, and the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator according to the operating state of the suspension.

[0009] Regarding the control device according to the third state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position according to the operating state of the suspension.

[0010] According to a fourth state of the present invention, the control device according to the third state is configured such that the operating state of the suspension includes a first stiffness state and a second stiffness state, the second stiffness state being more stiff than the first stiffness state, and the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that, after determining the second stiffness state, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0011] Regarding the control device according to the fourth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position according to the stiffness state of the suspension.

[0012] According to a fifth state of the present invention, the control device according to the third or fourth state is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the first position.

[0013] Regarding the control device of the fifth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position according to the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle.

[0014] According to a sixth state of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the third to fifth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that after determining that the pedal frequency is less than or equal to a predetermined pedal frequency value, the second coupling portion is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

[0015] Regarding the control device of the sixth state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the pedal frequency.

[0016] According to a seventh state of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the third to sixth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the third position.

[0017] Regarding the control device according to the seventh state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on whether the power input is equal to or less than the predetermined power value.

[0018] According to an eighth state of the present invention, the control device according to the seventh state is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that after determining that the power input is greater than the predetermined power value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0019] According to the control device of the eighth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be further adjusted to an optimal position based on the power input being greater than the predetermined power value.

[0020] According to a ninth state of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the first to eighth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to preferentially control the electric actuator in the order of the operating state, the forward speed, the pedal frequency and the input power.

[0021] Regarding the control device according to the ninth state, when it is determined that one of the levers is properly adjusted, the condition of these vehicles can take precedence over the condition of other vehicles.

[0022] According to a tenth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to the first or second embodiment is configured such that the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a height-adjustable seat post, and the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator according to an operating state of the height-adjustable seat post.

[0023] Regarding the control device of the tenth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position according to one of the operating states of the height-adjustable seat post.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the tenth aspect is configured such that the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post includes a first operating state in which the seat of one of the human-powered vehicles is positioned in a first seat position and a second operating state in which the seat is positioned in a second seat position above the first seat position.

[0025] According to the control device of the eleventh state, the operating state of the height-adjustable seat rod can be adjusted so that the seat can be selectively positioned at a first seat position or a second seat position higher than the first seat position.

[0026] According to a twelfth state of the present invention, the control device according to the eleventh state is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator, such that when the height-adjustable seat is in the first operating state, after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the first position.

[0027] Regarding the control device according to the twelfth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on whether the power input is equal to or less than the predetermined power value when the height-adjustable seat is in the first operating state.

[0028] According to a thirteenth state of the present invention, the control device according to the eleventh or twelfth state is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator, such that when the height-adjustable seat post is in the first operating state, after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value, the second coupling portion is positioned in a third position between a first position and the second position.

[0029] Regarding the control device according to the thirteenth state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the fact that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the height-adjustable seat bar is in the first operating state.

[0030] According to one of the fourteenth states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the eleventh to thirteenth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that when the height-adjustable seat is in the first operating state, after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0031] Regarding the control device according to the fourteenth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the forward speed being less than or equal to a predetermined speed value when the height-adjustable seat is in the first operating state.

[0032] According to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the eleventh to fourteenth embodiments is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator such that when the height-adjustable seat is in the second operating state, after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the second coupling portion is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

[0033] Regarding the control device according to the fifteenth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on whether the power input is equal to or less than the predetermined power value when the height-adjustable seat is in the second operating state.

[0034] According to a sixteenth state of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the eleventh to fifteenth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator, such that when the height-adjustable seat post is in the second operating state, after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0035] Regarding the control device according to the sixteenth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the fact that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the height-adjustable seat post is in the second operating state.

[0036] According to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the eleventh to sixteenth embodiments is configured such that the electric controller is configured to control the electric actuator, such that when the height-adjustable seat is in the second operating state, after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion is positioned in a third position.

[0037] Regarding the control device according to the seventeenth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the forward speed being less than or equal to a predetermined speed value when the height-adjustable seat is in the second operating state.

[0038] According to one of the eighteenth states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the tenth to seventeenth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to preferentially control the electric actuator in the order of the operating state, the input power, the pedal frequency and the forward speed.

[0039] Regarding the control device according to the eighteenth state, when it is determined that one of the levers is properly adjusted, the condition of these vehicles may take precedence over the condition of other vehicles.

[0040] According to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to the tenth embodiment is configured such that the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post includes a seat height of the height-adjustable seat post being higher or lower than a predetermined height.

[0041] Regarding the control device according to the nineteenth state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the seat height of the height-adjustable seat post.

[0042] According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the occupant is seated when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height, the second coupling portion is positioned in a first position.

[0043] Regarding the control device of the twentieth state, the lever can be controlled so that a rider or occupant can be in an optimal position according to the operating status of one of the human-powered vehicles.

[0044] According to one of the twenty-first states of the present invention, the control device according to the nineteenth or twentieth state is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to the predetermined power value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0045] Regarding the control device according to the twenty-first state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the power input and the seat height.

[0046] According to one of the twenty-second states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-first states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in the first position.

[0047] Regarding the control device according to the twenty-second state, the position of the handlebars or steering mechanism can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the pedal frequency and the seat height.

[0048] According to one of the twenty-third states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-second states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0049] Regarding the control device according to the twenty-third state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the forward speed and the seat height.

[0050] According to one of the twenty-fourth states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-third states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to the predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0051] Regarding the control device according to the twenty-fourth state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the power input and the seat height.

[0052] According to one twenty-fifth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-fourth embodiments is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator such that after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

[0053] Regarding the control device according to the twenty-fifth state, the position of the handlebars or steering mechanism can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the pedal frequency and the seat height.

[0054] According to one twenty-sixth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-fifth embodiments is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

[0055] According to the control device of the twenty-sixth state, the position of the handlebars or steering mechanism can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the pedal frequency and the seat height.

[0056] According to one of the twenty-seventh states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-sixth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the power input is greater than a predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in the first position.

[0057] Regarding the control device according to the twenty-seventh state, the position of the handlebar or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the power input and the seat height.

[0058] According to one twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-seventh aspects is configured such that the electric controller is configured to selectively control the electric actuator, such that after determining that the pedal frequency is less than the predetermined pedal frequency value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is seated, the second coupling portion is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

[0059] According to the control device of the twenty-eighth state, the position of the handlebars or steering mechanism can be adjusted to an optimal position based on the pedal frequency and the seat height.

[0060] According to one twenty-ninth embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-eighth embodiments is configured such that the electric controller is configured to initiate a control program to control the electric actuator in response to an input device adjusting at least one of the seat height and gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle.

[0061] According to the control device of the twenty-ninth state, the position of the handle or steering device can be adjusted to an optimal position in response to the operation of at least one of the seat height and gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle by an input device.

[0062] According to one of the thirtieth embodiments of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to twenty-ninth embodiments is configured such that the electric controller includes a plurality of predetermined control settings, each of the preset controls including a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a rod height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting, and the electric controller is configured to select one of the predetermined control settings at least in part after determining that the seat height of the height-adjustable seat rod is higher or lower than the predetermined height.

[0063] Regarding the control device according to the thirtieth state, at least in part, after determining that the seat height of the height-adjustable seat post is higher or lower than the predetermined height, several posture-changing devices can be controlled to an optimal position.

[0064] According to one of the thirty-first embodiments of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to thirtieth embodiments is configured such that the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a seat positioning actuator. Furthermore, the electronic controller is configured to selectively control the seat positioning actuator to move the seat forward or backward based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

[0065] According to the control device of the thirty-first state, the position of the seat can be adjusted to an optimal position based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle.

[0066] According to a thirty-second embodiment of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to thirty-first embodiments is configured such that the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a seat angle actuator. Furthermore, the electronic controller is configured to selectively control the seat angle actuator to tilt the seat up or down based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

[0067] According to the control device of the thirty-second state, the angle of the seat can be adjusted to an optimal position based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle.

[0068] According to one of the thirty-third states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to thirty-second states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to preferentially control the electric actuator in the order of the operating state, the input power, the pedal frequency and the forward speed.

[0069] Regarding the control device according to the thirty-third state, when using the control device to determine the appropriate adjustment of the lever and / or other posture changing device, the condition of such vehicles may take precedence over the condition of other selected vehicles.

[0070] According to one of the thirty-fourth embodiments of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the nineteenth to thirty-third embodiments is configured such that the electrical controller is configured to selectively control the electrical actuator and at least one posture changing device after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

[0071] Regarding the control device according to the thirty-fourth state, the position of the handlebars or steering mechanism and at least one posture changing device can be controlled to appropriately change the configuration of the human-powered vehicle to adapt to a desired riding posture.

[0072] According to one of the thirty-fifth states of the present invention, the control device according to any one of the first to thirty-fourth states is configured such that the electric controller is configured to be connected to a computer storage device to selectively change at least one of the predetermined value of the power input, the forward speed, the cadence and the operating state based on a user input.

[0073] Regarding the control device according to the thirty-fifth state, a user can customize the parameters used to determine the adjustment of the lever by the control device.

[0074] According to a thirty-sixth embodiment of the present invention, a component control system is provided, which includes a control device according to any one of the first to thirty-fifth embodiments, and the component control system further includes the lever, the electric actuator and the at least one posture changing device.

[0075] Regarding the component control system according to the thirty-sixth state, the control device can be effectively used to adjust the lever of the human-powered vehicle.

[0076] Furthermore, those skilled in the art of human-powered transportation will understand other objects, features, manners, and advantages of the disclosed control device from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the control device, which is illustrated in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0077] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this invention.

[0078] Figure 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a control device that controls a lever for controlling a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0079] Figure 2 is a partial perspective view of the handlebar area of ​​a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) shown in Figure 1, which includes a lever and a user input.

[0080] Figure 3 is an enlarged perspective view of one of the rods shown in Figure 2;

[0081] Figure 4 is a side view of the rod shown in Figure 3 positioned in a first operating state, with a portion separated for illustration;

[0082] Figure 5 is a side view of the rod shown in Figures 3 and 4 positioned in a second operating state, with a portion separated for illustration;

[0083] Figure 6 is a side view of one of the rods shown in Figures 3 to 5 positioned in a third operating state, with a portion separated for illustration;

[0084] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a control system including a control device, a lever, a height-adjustable seat bar, and a suspension component.

[0085] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a first example of a lever control procedure executed by a control device to determine the operating state of the lever;

[0086] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of a lever control procedure executed by a control device to determine the operating state of the lever;

[0087] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a third example of a lever control procedure executed by a control device to determine the operating state of the lever;

[0088] Figure 11 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a lever control procedure in which the control device executes control to determine the operating state of the lever and the operating state of the suspension;

[0089] Figure 12 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including a control device that controls a lever for controlling a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) according to another illustrative embodiment;

[0090] Figure 13 is an enlarged side view of the seat and seat post of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12, wherein the seat is set in a preset position (e.g., a middle position and a horizontal position);

[0091] Figure 14 is an enlarged side view of the seat and seat post of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12, with the seat set in a forward and horizontal position.

[0092] Figure 15 is an enlarged side view of the seat and seat post of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12, with the seat positioned in a rearward and horizontal position.

[0093] Figure 16 is an enlarged side view of the seat and seat post of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12, with the seat positioned in a middle position and the front end facing downwards.

[0094] Figure 17 is an enlarged side view of the seat and seat post of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12, with the seat positioned in a middle position and the front end facing upwards.

[0095] Figure 18 is a simplified side view of one of two human-powered vehicles (e.g., a bicycle) traveling downhill, where one of the human-powered vehicles is uncontrolled and the other is controlled.

[0096] Figure 19 is a simplified side view of one of a pair of human-powered vehicles (e.g., a bicycle) traveling uphill, where one of the human-powered vehicles is uncontrolled and the other is controlled.

[0097] Figure 20 is a block diagram of a component control system according to the embodiment of Figure 12, including a control device, a rod, a height-adjustable seat rod, and a suspension.

[0098] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating a first example of a control procedure executed by a control device to determine the operational status of the components of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12;

[0099] Figure 22 is a block diagram of one of the first controls of a human-powered vehicle, executed by a control device to control the vehicle according to a plurality of first predetermined control settings;

[0100] Figure 23 is a block diagram of one of the components of a human-powered vehicle controlled by a control device according to a plurality of second predetermined control settings;

[0101] Figure 24 is a block diagram of one of the components of a human-powered vehicle controlled by a control device according to a plurality of third predetermined control settings;

[0102] Figure 25 is a block diagram of one of the components of a fourth control system executed by a control device to control a human-powered vehicle according to a plurality of fourth predetermined control settings; and

[0103] Figure 26 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of a control procedure executed by a control device to determine the operating status of the components of the human-powered vehicle shown in Figure 12. Implementation

[0104] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art of human-powered transportation (e.g., bicycles) will understand from this invention that the following description of the embodiments is illustrative only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0105] Referring first to FIG1, a human-powered vehicle A, according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, is shown equipped with a control device 10 for an exemplary human-powered vehicle A. For example, in the illustrative embodiment, the human-powered vehicle A is an electric-assisted mountain bike (i.e., a cross-country bike). Alternatively, the human-powered vehicle A may be a road bike, a city bike, a freight bike, a recumbent bike, or another type of cross-country bike, such as a cyclocross bike. The number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle A is not limited. The human-powered vehicle A includes, for example, a unicycle and a vehicle having three or more wheels. Here, the human-powered vehicle A is a bicycle that uses at least part of human power as a driving force and includes an electric drive unit that assists human power. Specifically, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as a driving force is not included in the human-powered vehicles of the present invention. More specifically, in the embodiments described below, the human-powered vehicle A is an electric-assisted bicycle (electric bicycle).

[0106] As shown in Figure 1, a human-powered vehicle A includes a body VB equipped with a plurality of electrical components. In the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle A has a lever 12, an electric actuator 14, and a posture alteration device (e.g., a front suspension 16, a rear suspension 18, and / or a height-adjustable seat post 20). The posture alteration device is configured to change the posture of a user of the human-powered vehicle A. Thus, the front suspension 16, the rear suspension 18, and the seat post 20 are examples of rider posture alteration devices that can be adjusted to change the posture of a rider by changing the geometry of the human-powered vehicle A. In other words, the rider's posture is directly changed by adjusting one or more of the lever 12, the front suspension 16, the rear suspension 18, and the seat post 20 because the geometry of the human-powered vehicle A changes. In either case, the posture alteration device of the human-powered vehicle A includes a suspension (e.g., the front suspension 16 and / or the rear suspension 18), or the posture alteration device of the human-powered vehicle A includes a height-adjustable seat post 20.

[0107] Here, an electric actuator 14 is provided on the lever 12, making the lever 12 an adjustable handlebar. As will be explained below, the control device 10 is configured to control an operating state of the lever 12 by controlling the electric actuator 14 according to one or more parameters of the human-powered vehicle A (e.g., vehicle operation or riding status). More preferably, as will be explained below, the control device 10 is configured to control the operating state of the lever 12 by controlling the electric actuator 14 according to at least an operating state of a posture-changing device (e.g., front suspension 16, rear suspension 18, and height-adjustable seat post 20).

[0108] As shown in Figure 1, the bicycle frame VB has a front frame FB and a rear frame RB (a swing arm). The rear frame RB is pivotally mounted to a rear section of the front frame FB, allowing the rear frame RB to pivot relative to the front frame FB. A rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear frame RB, and a front wheel FW is mounted to the front frame FB via a front suspension 16 (i.e., a front suspension fork). A height-adjustable seatpost 20 (hereinafter referred to as "seatpost 20") is conventionally mounted to a seat tube of the front frame FB and supports a bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner. The seatpost 20 and the saddle S form a seatpost assembly. A rear suspension 18 is provided between the front frame FB and the rear frame RB to control the movement of the rear frame RB relative to the front frame FB. That is, the rear suspension 18 absorbs vibrations added to the rear wheel RW. The front suspension 16 (i.e., a front suspension fork) is pivotally mounted to a front tube of the front frame FB. One hand mounts H to the upper end of the steering column and steering tube 16a of the front suspension 16. The front suspension 16 absorbs vibrations added to the front wheel FW. The front wheel FW is mounted to the lower end of the front suspension 16. The rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear end of the rear frame RB.

[0109] The human-powered vehicle A further includes a drivetrain DT and an electric auxiliary unit E operably coupled to the drivetrain DT. Here, for example, the drivetrain DT is a chain drive type including a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets RS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crankshaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crankshaft CA1 is rotatably supported to the front frame FB via the electric auxiliary unit E. The crank arms CA2 are provided on the opposite ends of the crankshaft CA1. A pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal ends of each of the crank arms CA2. The drivetrain DT can be of any type and can be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type. Here, the human-powered vehicle A further includes a rear derailleur 22 attached to the rear frame RB to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS. The rear derailleur 22 is a gear changing device or transmission device of a type used to change the gear ratio of the drivetrain DT.

[0110] The front sprocket FS is mounted on the crank C and rotates integrally with the crankshaft CA1. The rear sprocket RS is mounted on the hub HR of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN runs around the front sprocket FS and the rear sprocket RS. Human drive is applied to the pedal PD by a rider of the human-powered vehicle A, such that the drive force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprocket RS.

[0111] The electric assist unit E is actuated to help propel the human-powered vehicle A in a conventional manner. For example, the electric assist unit E is actuated by a human driving force applied to the pedal PD. The electric assist unit E includes a motor. The electric assist unit E is actuated by electrical power supplied from a main battery pack BP installed on a lower tube of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0112] The main battery pack BP preferably houses at least one battery having one or more battery cells. The main battery pack BP is removably mounted in the lower tube of the rear frame RB. Each battery cell in the battery pack contains a rechargeable battery. The main battery pack BP supplies electrical power to various components of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0113] Referring now to Figure 2, a portion of the human-powered vehicle A is illustrated. Here, a control device 10 is provided to the handlebars H. However, the control device 10 is not limited to this location. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the control device 10 is a bicycle computer having a display 24 and a plurality of user-operable input devices 26 (e.g., buttons shown). The display 24 of the control device 10 includes a touch panel 28, making the touch panel 28 a user-operable input device. The user inputs 26 of the control device 10 can be used to set various control parameters for various electrical components connected to the control device 10. For example, the user-operable input devices 26 and / or the touch panel 28 can be used for manual operation of the lever 12. In addition, the control device 10 is also configured to receive control signals from a user-operable input device 30 for the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18. Furthermore, the control device 10 is also configured to receive control signals from a user-operable input device 32 for the height-adjustable seat post 20. In addition, the control device 10 is also configured to receive control signals from a user-operable input device 34 used by the rear transmission 22.

[0114] As seen in Figure 2, lever 12 is mounted to the steering column steering tube 16a of the front suspension 16 and supports the handlebar H. As mentioned above, an electric actuator 14 is provided on lever 12. The electric actuator 14 is configured to be controlled by control device 10 to adjust the operating state of lever 12 to change the height of the handlebar relative to the vehicle body VB. Here, electric actuator 14 includes a pair of reversible electric motors 36 with a built-in reducer and a pair of sliding screws 38 for converting the rotational output of the reversible electric motors 36 into linear motion. Although the electric actuator 14 of the illustrated embodiment includes two reversible electric motors 36 and two sliding screws 38, it should be understood from the present invention that electric actuator 14 is not limited to this configuration. For example, electric actuator 14 may have only one reversible electric motor and one sliding screw or other types of mechanisms (such as one or more linear solenoid actuators), depending on the construction of lever 12. In either case, the electric actuator 14 of the lever 12 can be manually controlled by the user-operable input device 26 and / or touch panel 28 of the control device 10, or automatically controlled by the control device 10 based on one or more parameters of the human-powered vehicle A (e.g., vehicle operation or riding status).

[0115] Referring now to Figures 3 to 6, the lever 12 includes a first coupling portion 40, a second coupling portion 42, and a movable portion 44. An electric actuator 14 is configured to actuate the movable portion 44. The first coupling portion 40 is configured to couple to the steering column 16a. In the case where the human-powered vehicle A is a bicycle, the first coupling portion 40 constitutes a steering tube mounting bracket. The second coupling portion 42 is configured to couple to the handlebar H. In the case where the human-powered vehicle A is a bicycle, the second coupling portion 42 constitutes a handlebar mounting bracket. In this manner, the lever 12 is rigidly mounted to the steering column 16a of the front suspension 16 and supports the handlebar H, allowing the front suspension 16 and the front wheel FW to rotate relative to the vehicle body VB. The movable portion 44 couples the second coupling portion 42 to the first coupling portion 40. In this manner, the second coupling portion 42 can move relative to the first coupling portion 40 between a first position (Figure 4) and a second position (Figure 5). As seen in Figures 4 and 5, the second position differs from the first position. The movable portion 44 may also be referred to as a lever. However, lever 12 is not limited to the structure of the illustrated embodiment. Lever 12 can have various configurations for adjusting the height of the handlebar H. For example, lever 12 can be constructed to omit one or both of the coupling portions. Specifically, for example, lever 12 and handlebar H can be formed as a single unit to eliminate the second coupling portion 42. Furthermore, for example, lever 12 can be constructed to omit the movable portion. Specifically, for example, the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 42 can be non-movably connected, and a height adjustment component can be provided between the first coupling portion 40 and the steering column 16a. Of course, those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles will understand that other configurations can be used to adjust the height of the handlebar.

[0116] In any case, the illustrated embodiment will now be discussed in further detail. A first coupling portion 40 is movably coupled to a first end of one of the movable portions 44. The first coupling portion 40 has a pair of clamps 46 and a pair of bolts 48. Here, the clamps 46 are integrally formed as a single piece, but can be pivotally connected together at one end. Each of the clamps 46 has a curved inner surface 46a that contacts a corresponding curved outer surface of the steering column 16a. As the bolts 48 are tightened, the bolts 48 press the free ends of the clamps 46 together to firmly clamp the steering column 16a.

[0117] The second coupling portion 42 is movably coupled to a second end of one of the movable portions 44. The second coupling portion 42 has a first clamping member 50, a second clamping member 52, and one of four bolts 54. The first clamping member 50 is movably coupled to the movable portion 44, as will be discussed below. The second clamping member 52 is attached to the first clamping member 50 by the bolts 54. The first clamping member 50 has a curved inner surface 50a that contacts a corresponding curved outer surface of the handle H. The second clamping member 52 has a curved inner surface 52a that contacts a corresponding curved outer surface of the handle H. As the bolts 54 are tightened, they clamp the handle H between the first clamping member 50 and the second clamping member 52.

[0118] As mentioned above, the movable portion 44 interconnects the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 42, allowing the position of the handlebar H relative to the vehicle body VB to be changed in response to operation of the control device 10 operably coupled to the electric actuator 14. The movable portion 44 is substantially configured to move between a first position (which may, for example, correspond to a high position) and a second position (which may, for example, correspond to a low position). In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the second coupling portion 42 positioned in the second position is lower than the second coupling portion 42 positioned in the first position. Specifically, the electric actuator 14 is configured to selectively position the movable portion 44 between the first and second positions. Here, the electric actuator 14 is configured to selectively position the movable portion 44 in a third position (a third operating state). The third position is disposed between the first and second positions. In other words, here, the movable part 44 is configured to automatically move between three different positions by means of the control device 10 activating the electric actuator 14 to selectively support the handlebar H at three different heights relative to the vehicle body VB. Of course, it should be understood from the present invention that the control device can be configured such that the movable part 44 has only two preset positions or three or more preset positions during automatic control. For manual operation of the electric actuator 14, the movable part 44 has an infinite number of positions. The preset positions are preferably user-adjustable, allowing a user to set each preset position to achieve the desired height of the handlebar H.

[0119] Depending on the vehicle's operation or riding conditions, riders typically expect different handlebar positions related to the position of lever 12. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to set different handlebar positions for different vehicle operation or riding conditions. Control device 10 automatically activates electric actuator 14 based on the selected vehicle operation or riding condition. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the first position of movable portion 44 is used to provide a high handlebar setting, the highest lever position. The second position of movable portion 44 is used to provide a low handlebar setting, the lowest lever position. The third position of movable portion 44 is used to provide a normal or intermediate handlebar setting, the intermediate lever position.

[0120] Here, the movable portion 44 includes a link assembly 60 that interconnects the first coupling portion 40 and the second coupling portion 42. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the link assembly 60 includes a first link 62 and a second link 64. The first link 62 has a first end pivotally coupled to a first end of the first coupling portion 40 and a second end pivotally coupled to a second end of the second coupling portion 42. Similarly, the second link 64 has a first end pivotally coupled to a first end of the first coupling portion 40 and a second end pivotally coupled to a second end of the second coupling portion 42. In this way, the first coupling portion 40, the second coupling portion 42, and the link assembly 60 form a four-bar linkage.

[0121] Referring now to Figure 7, a block diagram of a component control system 70 is shown. The component control system 70 includes a control device 10 and further includes a lever 12, an electric actuator 14, and at least one attitude adjustment device (e.g., front suspension 16, rear suspension 18, and / or height-adjustable seat post 20). The control device 10 can be connected to other electrical components of the component control system 70 via wired communication (e.g., a dedicated signal line or via a power line using power line communication) and / or wireless communication.

[0122] Control device 10 includes an electric controller 72 configured to selectively control electric actuator 14 based on at least one of a power input of the human-powered vehicle A, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and an operating state of a posture modification device of the human-powered vehicle A (e.g., front suspension 16, rear suspension 18, and / or height-adjustable seat post 20).

[0123] The electrical controller 72 includes at least one of a central processing unit (CPU) and a microprocessor unit (MPU), which includes at least one processor 72A that controls the electric actuator 14 according to an automatic control program or by manual operation of a user-operable input device 34 by a rider. The electrical controller 72 is formed from one or more semiconductor chips mounted on a circuit board. Here, "electrical controller" is an "electronic controller". As used herein, the terms "electrical controller" and "electronic controller" refer to hardware that executes a software program and does not involve human intervention. The electrical controller 72 further includes at least one memory device 72B that stores various types of information, control programs, and control procedures. The memory device 72B includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium that excludes only a transient propagation signal. For example, the memory device 72B includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. A non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. A volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM). Here, the electronic controller 72 is configured to connect to a computer storage device (e.g., memory device 72B) to selectively change at least one of the following values ​​based on a user input: a predetermined value of power input, forward speed, cadence, and operating state.

[0124] Here, the electrical controller 72 has a communication circuit or communicator 72C for implementing wired communication with various electrical components and / or sensors via power line communication. However, the communicator 72C may be a wireless communication device, such as a transceiver for transmitting signals to and receiving signals from various electrical components and / or sensors.

[0125] The seat post 20 may be a conventional height-adjustable seat post operated by receiving an electrical signal. In the illustrated embodiment, the seat post 20 includes an electric actuator 20A for extending and retracting the total length of the seat post 20 in a conventional manner. The electric actuator 20A may be, for example, a reversible electric motor. Here, the seat post 20 further includes a seat post position sensor 20B for detecting the operating state of the seat post 20. The operating state of the height-adjustable seat post 20 essentially includes a first operating state in which the seat S of the human-powered vehicle A is positioned in a first seat position and a second operating state in which the seat S is positioned in a second seat position above the first seat position. The seat post position sensor 20B may be, for example, a potentiometer or an optical sensor applied to the electric actuator 20A to detect a portion of the position or amount of operation of the electric actuator 20A.

[0126] The front suspension 16 (front fork) of the human-powered vehicle A includes a locking actuator 16A, a spring force adjustment actuator 16B, and at least one operating status sensor 16C. The locking actuator 16A is configured to adjust a valve in the front suspension 16 between a closed position, a partially open position, and a fully open position. Here, the locking actuator 16A and the spring force adjustment actuator 16B are electric actuators, such as an electric motor, that receive power from the autonomous battery pack BP. The spring force adjustment actuator 16B is configured to adjust the spring force of the front suspension 16 between at least a low spring force, a medium spring force, and a strong spring force. The front suspension operating status sensor 16C may be, for example, a potentiometer or an optical sensor applied to the locking actuator 16A and the spring force adjustment actuator 16B to detect a portion of the position or operation of the locking actuator 16A and the spring force adjustment actuator 16B. Since adjustable front suspensions are already well-known in the field of human-powered transportation, for the sake of simplicity, the details of the front suspension 16 will not be discussed or illustrated in this article.

[0127] Similarly, the rear suspension 18 (rear shock absorber) of the human-powered vehicle A includes a lock-up actuator 18A, a spring force adjustment actuator 18B, and at least one operating state sensor 18C. Here, the lock-up actuator 18A and the spring force adjustment actuator 18B are electric actuators, such as an electric motor, that receive power from the autonomous battery pack BP. The lock-up actuator 18A is configured to adjust one of the valves in the rear suspension 18 between a closed position, a partially open position, and a fully open position. The spring force adjustment actuator 18B is configured to adjust one of the spring forces in the rear suspension 18 between at least a low spring force, a medium spring force, and a strong spring force. The rear suspension operation status sensor 18C may be, for example, a potentiometer or an optical sensor applied to the lock-up actuator 18A and the spring force adjustment actuator 18B to detect the position or operation of a portion of the lock-up actuator 18A and the spring force adjustment actuator 18B. Because adjustable rear suspensions are well-known in the field of human-powered vehicles, for the sake of simplicity, details of the rear suspension 18 will not be discussed or illustrated herein.

[0128] The component control system 70 further includes a forward speed sensor 74, a cadence sensor 76, and a power meter 78. The forward speed sensor 74 is configured to detect the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A. The cadence sensor 76 is configured to detect the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A by a rider pedaling the vehicle A. The power meter 78 is configured to detect the power input of a rider to the human-powered vehicle A. Because the forward speed sensor 74, cadence sensor 76, and power meter 78 are known, they will not be discussed further herein.

[0129] The following describes a first example of a lever control program executed by the electronic controller 72, with reference to the flowchart in Figure 8. The lever control program is executed by the electronic controller 72 at predetermined time intervals. In the lever operation program of Figure 8, the electronic controller 72 controls the operation state of the lever 12 by activating the electric actuator 14 based on at least one of the following: a power input of the human-powered vehicle A, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and an operating state of the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0130] In the lever operation procedure of Figure 8, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 based on the operating state of a suspension (e.g., front suspension 16 and / or rear suspension 18). The operating state of at least one of the front suspension 16 and rear suspension 18 can be a suspension travel length, a spring preload, a damping rate, and a locked state. Here, in the lever control procedure of Figure 8, the electric controller 72 uses a stiffness state of at least one suspension (e.g., front suspension 16 and / or rear suspension 18) to determine the control of the lever 12 and adjust the height of the handlebar H.

[0131] In the lever control program of Figure 8, the operating states of the suspension (e.g., front suspension 16 and / or rear suspension 18) include a first stiffness state and a second stiffness state. Here, the second stiffness state is more rigid than the first stiffness state. In other words, the first stiffness state can generally be considered softer than the second stiffness state. On the other hand, the second stiffness state can generally be considered stiffer than the first stiffness state. Regarding a suspension having a locking feature for switching between a locked state and an open state, the first stiffness state corresponds to the open state and the second stiffness state corresponds to the locked state. Regarding a suspension having a spring load adjustment for changing a spring load between a low spring load and a high spring load, the first stiffness state corresponds to the low spring load and the second stiffness state corresponds to the high spring load.

[0132] In the lever control program of Figure 8, the electric controller 72 is configured to prioritize the control of the electric actuator 14 according to the order of operating state, forward speed, cadence, and input power. Therefore, the electric controller 72 periodically receives detection results from the lever position sensor 12A, (a plurality of) front suspension operating state sensors 16C, (a plurality of) rear suspension operating state sensors 18C, forward speed sensor 74, cadence sensor 76, and power meter 78. Here, the human-powered vehicle A has a front suspension 16 and a rear suspension 18. However, some human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) have only a front suspension, while others (e.g., bicycles) have only a rear suspension. The lever control program of Figure 8 can be used with human-powered vehicles having only a front suspension, human-powered vehicles having only a rear suspension, and human-powered vehicles having both a front suspension and a rear suspension. For a human-powered vehicle with both a front suspension and a rear suspension, the operating (stiffness) state of one or both of the front and rear suspensions can be used as a basis for the position of the control lever 12.

[0133] In step S10, the electronic controller 72 determines the operating (stiffness) state of at least one of the front suspension 16 and rear suspension 18 based on detection results from one or more of the operating state sensors 16C and 18C regarding the operating state of at least one of the front suspension 16 and rear suspension 18. Here, the electronic controller 72 determines whether at least one of the front suspension 16 and rear suspension 18 is set to a first stiffness state or a second stiffness state. The first stiffness state and the second stiffness state may be based on one of the preset states of the suspension(s) (such as locked and unlocked), or may be based on a calculated value being higher or lower than a predetermined value. In either case, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the first stiffness state exists, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S11. However, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the second stiffness state exists, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S15.

[0134] In step S11, the electric controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. The predetermined speed value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined speed value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined speed value may be set to 10 MPH or 15 km / h.

[0135] If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S13.

[0136] In step S12, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that, after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position. In the illustrated embodiment, the handlebar H is set to the highest of three preset positions by positioning the second coupling portion 42 in the first position. Although the handlebar H can be in the highest position when the second coupling portion 42 is in the first position, it is conceivable that the handlebar H is in a position other than the highest position when the second coupling portion 42 is in the first position. In either case, after the second coupling portion 42 reaches the first position, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0137] In step S13, the electric controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. The predetermined cadence value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined cadence value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined cadence value may be set to 50 RPM.

[0138] If the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S14.

[0139] In step S14, the electric controller 72 determines whether the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value based on the detection result of the power meter 78. The predetermined power value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined power value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined power value may be set to 70 watts.

[0140] If the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S15.

[0141] In step S15, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that, after determining the second stiffness state, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle H is set to the lowest of three preset positions by positioning the second coupling portion 42 in the second position. Although the handle H can be in the lowest position when the second coupling portion 42 is in the second position, it is conceivable that the handle H is in a position other than the lowest position when the second coupling portion 42 is in the second position. In either case, the control program ends after the second coupling portion 42 reaches the second position until the next control program is executed.

[0142] In step S16, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in a third position. In the control program, step S16 is reached from either step S13 or S14. When the control program proceeds from step S13 to step S16, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that after determining that the pedal frequency is less than or equal to a predetermined pedal frequency value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in a third position between the first and second positions. Conversely, when the control program proceeds from step S14 to step S16, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position.

[0143] In the illustrated embodiment, the handlebar H is set to the middle position of one of three preset positions by positioning the second coupling portion 42 in the third position. Although the handlebar H can be located between the first and second positions when the second coupling portion 42 is in the third position, it is conceivable that the handlebar H is in a position that is not a midpoint when the second coupling portion 42 is in the third position. In any case, the control program ends after the second coupling portion 42 reaches the third position until the next control program is executed.

[0144] A second example of a lever control program executed by the electronic controller 72 will now be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 9. The lever control program in Figure 9 is executed by the electronic controller 72 at predetermined time intervals. In the lever control program of Figure 9, the electronic controller 72 controls the operating state of the lever 12 by activating the electric actuator 14 based on at least one of the following: a power input of the human-powered vehicle A, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and an operating state of at least one of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18. In the lever control program of Figure 9, the electronic controller 72 is configured to prioritize the control of the electric actuator 14 according to the order of operating state, forward speed, cadence, and input power.

[0145] Similar to the control procedure in Figure 8, in the control procedure of Figure 9, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to the operating state of a suspension (e.g., front suspension 16 and / or rear suspension 18). In fact, except for the addition of an extra step S17, the control procedure of Figure 9 is identical to that of Figure 8. Because steps S10 to S16 of the control procedure of Figure 9 are identical to steps S10 to S16 of the control procedure of Figure 8, the description of steps S10 to S16 will not be repeated in the description of the control procedure of Figure 9.

[0146] In step S13 of the control program in Figure 9, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined cadence value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S17.

[0147] In step S17, the electric controller 72 determines, based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78, that the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value. The predetermined power value in step S17 may be the same as the predetermined power value in step S14 (e.g., 70 watts) or a different value. Furthermore, the predetermined power value in step S14 is stored in a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72 and may be customized by a user.

[0148] If the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S12, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to a first position. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S16, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to a third position. In step S16, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that after determining that the power input is greater than the predetermined power value, the second coupling portion is positioned in a second position.

[0149] A third example of a lever control program executed by the electronic controller 72 will now be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 10. The lever control program is executed by the electronic controller 72 at predetermined time intervals. In the lever control program of Figure 10, the electronic controller 72 controls the operating state of the lever 12 by activating the electric actuator 14 based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle A, the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and the operating state of the seat post 20. In the lever control program of Figure 10, the electronic controller 72 is configured to prioritize the control of the electric actuator 14 in the order of operating state, input power, cadence, and forward speed. Therefore, the electronic controller 72 periodically receives detection results from the lever position sensor 12A, the seat post position sensor 20B, the forward speed sensor 74, the cadence sensor 76, and the power meter 78.

[0150] In the lever control program of Figure 10, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to one of the operating states of the height-adjustable seat stick 20. Here, in the lever control program of Figure 10, the operating states of the height-adjustable seat stick 20 include a first operating state in which the seat S of the human-powered vehicle A is positioned in a first seat position, and a second operating state in which the seat is positioned in a second seat position higher than the first seat position. In other words, the electric controller 72 uses one of the extended / retracted states of the seat stick 20 to determine the control of the lever 12 and adjust the height of the handlebar H.

[0151] In step S20, the electronic controller 72 determines the operating (downward / extended) state of the seat post 20 based on detection results from the seat post position sensor 20B regarding the operating state of the seat post 20. Specifically, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the seat post 20 is set to a first operating state or a second operating state. When the seat post 20 is in the first operating state, the seat S of the human-powered vehicle A is in a first seat position, and when the seat post 20 is in the second operating state, the seat S of the human-powered vehicle A is in a second seat position. Here, the second seat position is higher than the first seat position.

[0152] In either case, if the electrical controller 72 determines that the first operating state exists, the electrical controller 72 proceeds to step S21. However, if the electrical controller 72 determines that the second operating state exists, the electrical controller 72 proceeds to step S27.

[0153] In step S21, the electric controller 72 determines whether the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value based on the detection result of the power meter 78. The predetermined power value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined power value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined power value may be set to 200 watts.

[0154] If the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S23.

[0155] In step S22, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that, when the height-adjustable seat post 20 is in the first operating state, after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position. As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment, the handle H is set to the highest of three preset positions by positioning the second coupling portion 42 in the first position. After the second coupling portion 42 reaches the first position, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0156] In step S23, the electric controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. The predetermined cadence value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined cadence value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined cadence value may be set to 75 RPM.

[0157] If the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S24. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S25.

[0158] In step S24, the electric controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. The predetermined speed value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined speed value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined speed value may be set to 20 MPH or 30 km / h.

[0159] If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S26. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S25.

[0160] In step S25, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position. The control program proceeds from step S23 or step S24 to step S25. When the control program proceeds from step S23 to step S25, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that when the height-adjustable seat post 20 is in the first operating state, after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position between the first position and the second position. On the other hand, when the control program proceeds from step S24 to step S25, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that when the height-adjustable seat post 20 is in the second operating state, after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position.

[0161] In step S26, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that, when the height-adjustable seat post 20 is in the first operating state, after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position. As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment, by positioning the second coupling portion 42 in the second position, the handle H is set to the lowest of the three preset positions. After the second coupling portion 42 reaches the second position, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0162] As mentioned above, if the electric controller 72 determines that the second operating state exists, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S27. In step S27, based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78, it is determined whether the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value. The predetermined power value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined power value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined power value may be set to 150 watts.

[0163] If the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S25, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to a third position. Therefore, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that, after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value when the height-adjustable seat post 20 is in the second operating state, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in a third position between the first and second positions. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S28.

[0164] In step S28, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. The predetermined cadence value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electronic controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined cadence value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electronic controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined cadence value may be set to 75 RPM.

[0165] If the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S29. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S26, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to a second position. Therefore, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that after determining that the cadence is greater than a predetermined cadence value when the height-adjustable seat post 20 is in the second operating state, the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0166] In step S29, the electric controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. The predetermined speed value can preferably be customized by the user via the user-operable input device 26 of the control device 10 (e.g., the button shown) or the touch panel 28 of the control device 10. The electric controller 72 may have a preset setting of the predetermined speed value stored in a computer storage device (such as a memory device 72B of the electric controller 72). For example, the preset setting of the predetermined speed value may be set to 20 MPH or 30 km / h.

[0167] If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S26, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to a second position. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than a predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S25, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to a third position.

[0168] The fourth example of a lever control program executed by the electronic controller 72 will now be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 11. The lever control program is executed by the electronic controller 72 at predetermined time intervals. In the lever control program of Figure 11, the electronic controller 72 controls the operating state of the lever 12 by activating the electric actuator 14 based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle A, the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and the operating state of the seat lever 20. In the lever control program of Figure 11, the electronic controller 72 is configured to prioritize the control of the electric actuator 14 in the order of operating state, input power, cadence, and forward speed. In addition, in the lever control program of Figure 11, in addition to the position of the lever 12, the stiffness state of one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 is also set. Specifically, except that the control of one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 is added to the control of Figure 10, the control program of Figure 11 is the same as the control program of Figure 10.

[0169] In step S30, the electronic controller 72 determines the operating (downward / extended) state of the seat stick 20 based on the detection results from the seat stick position sensor 20B regarding the operating state of the seat stick 20. Specifically, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the seat stick 20 is set to a first operating state or a second operating state. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the first operating state exists, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S31. However, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the second operating state exists, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S40.

[0170] In step S31, the electric controller 72 determines whether the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78. If the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S32, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to the first position. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S34.

[0171] In step S32, the electrical controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position, as discussed above. Then, the control program proceeds to step S33.

[0172] In step S33, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control one or more of the following: the lock-up state actuator 16A, the spring force adjustment actuator 16B, the lock-up state actuator 18A, and the spring force adjustment actuator 18B, such that one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a first stiffness state, as discussed above. After one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to the first stiffness state, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0173] In step S34, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined cadence value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S36. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined cadence value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S35.

[0174] In step S35, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position, as discussed above. Next, the control program proceeds to step S33, in which one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a first stiffness state, and the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0175] In step S36, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S37. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S39.

[0176] In step S37, the electrical controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position, as discussed above. Then, the control program proceeds to step S38.

[0177] In step S38, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control one or more of the lock-up state actuator 16A, spring force adjustment actuator 16B, lock-up state actuator 18A, and spring force adjustment actuator 18B, such that one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a second stiffness state, as discussed above. After one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to the second stiffness state, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0178] In step S39, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position, as discussed above. Next, the control program proceeds to step S33, where the electronic controller 72 is configured to control one or more of the lock-up actuator 16A, spring force adjustment actuator 16B, lock-up actuator 18A, and spring force adjustment actuator 18B, such that one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a first stiffness state, as discussed above. After one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to the first stiffness state, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0179] As mentioned above, if the electric controller 72 determines that the second operating state exists, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S40. In step S40, the electric controller 72 determines whether the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78. If the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S41, in which the second coupling portion 42 is set to the third position. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S42.

[0180] In step S41, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position, as discussed above. Next, the control program proceeds to step S33, in which one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a first stiffness state, as discussed above.

[0181] In step S42, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined cadence value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S44. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined cadence value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S43.

[0182] In step S43, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position, as discussed above. Next, the control program proceeds to step S33, in which one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a first stiffness state, and the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0183] In step S44, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S45. On the other hand, if the electronic controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined speed value, the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S47.

[0184] In step S45, the electrical controller 72 is configured to control the electrical actuator 14 such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position, as discussed above. Then, the control program proceeds to step S46.

[0185] In step S46, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control one or more of the following: the lock-up state actuator 16A, the spring force adjustment actuator 16B, the lock-up state actuator 18A, and the spring force adjustment actuator 18B, such that one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a second stiffness state. After one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to the second stiffness state, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0186] In step S47, the electronic controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position. Next, the control program proceeds to step S33, where the electronic controller 72 is configured to control one or more of the lock-up actuator 16A, spring force adjustment actuator 16B, lock-up actuator 18A, and spring force adjustment actuator 18B, such that one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to a first stiffness state. After one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 are set to the first stiffness state, the control program ends until the next control program is executed.

[0187] Referring now to Figures 12 through 26, a control device 110 is used with a human-powered vehicle A according to another illustrative embodiment. The control device 110 is particularly helpful for climbing and descending hills by changing the configuration of the human-powered vehicle A to better adapt to one of the better riding postures of the current travel state of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0188] Here, except for the additional programming used to control the human-powered vehicle A, the control device 110 is the same as the control device 10 discussed above. In Figure 20, except that the control device 10 and the seat lever 20 have been replaced by a lever 120 and the control device 110, the human-powered vehicle A is the same as the human-powered vehicle A in Figure 1. Here, the control device 110 is configured to automatically control the seat lever 120 to move the seat S forward or backward and / or tilt the seat S up or down in response to an input from an occupant and / or the detection of an operating state of a component of the human-powered vehicle A, as seen in Figures 13 to 17.

[0189] Therefore, the similarities between this embodiment and the previous embodiment, and the parts of this embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiment, will be given the same element symbols as those of the previous embodiment. In addition, for the sake of brevity, the description of the parts of this embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiment may be omitted.

[0190] As shown in Figure 20, the seat post 120 includes a seat height actuator 120A and a plurality of position sensors 120B. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the seat height actuator 120A is configured to raise and lower the seat S. Therefore, the posture alteration device of the human-powered vehicle A includes the seat height actuator 120A. The position sensors 120B include at least one position sensor configured to detect the current height of one of the seat posts 120 and thus the current height of one of the seats S. The electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the seat height actuator 120A in response to user-operable input device 32 to move the seat S up or down.

[0191] As shown in Figure 20, the seatpost 120 further includes a seat positioning actuator 120C. As shown in Figures 13 to 17, the seatpost 120 is configured to move the seat S forward (Figure 14) or backward (Figure 15) from a midpoint position (Figure 13). Moving the seat S forward (Figure 14) or backward (Figure 15) from a midpoint position (Figure 13) changes a rider's posture. Therefore, the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A includes the seat positioning actuator 120C. As will be explained below, the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the seat positioning actuator 120C to move the seat S forward or backward based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle A, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

[0192] As shown in Figure 20, the seat post 120 further includes a seat angle actuator 120D. As shown in Figures 13, 16, and 17, the seat angle actuator 120D is configured to tilt the seat S downward (Figure 16) or upward (Figure 17) from a horizontal position (Figure 13). By tilting the seat S downward (Figure 16) or upward (Figure 17) from a horizontal position (Figure 13), a rider's posture is changed. Therefore, the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A includes the seat angle actuator 120D. Although the horizontal intermediate position of the seat S (Figure 13) is usually set as the default position, the rider or user can set the default position to any position as needed and / or as appropriate. As will be explained below, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the seat angle actuator 120D to tilt the seat S up or down based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle A, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

[0193] The seat post 120 is operated by receiving an electrical signal via a user-operable input device 32. The user-operable input device 32 is preferably configured to individually and independently operate the seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D. For example, the user-operable input device 32 may have a plurality of switches, each of the seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D being operated by one or more of its own switches. In other words, an occupant or rider can raise or lower the seat S by operating the seat height actuator 120A via the user-operable input device 32 without moving or tilting the seat S longitudinally. Furthermore, an occupant or rider can move the seat S longitudinally forward or backward without raising, lowering, or tilting the seat S by operating the seat positioning actuator 120C via the user-operable input device 32. Furthermore, an occupant or rider can operate the seat angle actuator 120D by operating the user-operable input device 32 to tilt the seat S up or down without raising, lowering, or moving the seat S longitudinally. Alternatively, the user-operable input device 32 can be used to simultaneously operate two or all of the seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D. Furthermore, the user-operable input device 32 can be a single input device, or two or three separate input devices located at different positions on the human-powered vehicle A.

[0194] In the illustrated embodiment, the seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D are electric actuators, such as reversible electric motors. Here, the seat post 120 further includes a plurality of seat post position sensors 120B for detecting the operating state of the seat post 120. The seat post position sensors 120B may be, for example, potentiometers or optical sensors applied to the seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D to detect the position or operating amount of a portion of the seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D.

[0195] Regarding the seat height actuator 120A, the operating states of the seat post 120 basically include a first operating state of positioning the seat S of the human-powered vehicle A in a first seat position and a second operating state of positioning the seat S in a second seat position higher than the first seat position. Preferably, the operating states of the seat post 120 further include a third operating state of positioning the seat S in a third seat position between the first and second seat positions. Regarding the seat positioning actuator 120C, the operating states of the seat post 120 basically include three operating states. Specifically, regarding the seat positioning actuator 120C, the operating states of the seat post 120 include a middle seat position, a front seat position, and a rear seat position. Regarding the seat angle actuator 120D, the operating states of the seat post 120 basically include three operating states. Specifically, regarding the seat angle actuator 120D, the operating states of the seat post 120 include a horizontal seat state, a front-end-up state, and a front-end-down state.

[0196] As shown in Figure 18, when riding a human-powered vehicle A down a steep slope, it is desirable to move the rider's load on vehicle A backward to reduce the possibility of vehicle A rotating forward. To achieve this riding posture for riding down a steep slope, it is desirable to raise lever 12 to a high position, adjust the front suspension 16 to a long travel and a soft (damper) stiffness, and move the seat backward with the front end tilted upward. Due to these changes in the posture alteration device, the rider's posture changes from a forward-leaning posture θa to a more upright posture θb (i.e., θa < θb). Basically, the rider's posture is changed to achieve the desired posture by changing the position and angle of the seat S and the height of lever 12. More specifically, by changing the position and angle of the seat S, an effective seat angle changes from an effective preset seat angle θc to an effective adjustable seat angle θd to achieve the desired rider posture.

[0197] As shown in Figure 19, when riding a human-powered vehicle A uphill on a steep slope, it is desirable to move the rider's load on vehicle A forward to reduce the possibility of vehicle A rotating backward. Additionally, it is desirable for the rider to adopt a slightly forward-leaning posture to maintain an efficient pedaling posture. To achieve this riding posture for riding uphill on a steep slope, it is desirable to lower lever 12 to a low position, adjust the front suspension 16 to a short travel and a stiff (damper) rigidity, adjust the rear suspension 18 to a long travel and a stiff (damper) rigidity, and move the seat S forward with its front end tilted downward. Due to these changes in the posture alteration device, the rider's posture changes from a forward-leaning posture θa to a slightly more forward-leaning posture θb (i.e., θa < θb). Essentially, the rider's posture is altered by changing the position and angle of the seat S and the height of lever 12 to achieve the desired posture. More specifically, by changing the position and angle of the seat S, an effective seat angle changes from an effective preset seat angle θc to an effective adjustable seat angle θd to achieve the rider's desired posture.

[0198] The following is a fifth example of a control program executed by the electric controller 72 to control the posture changing device for obtaining the configuration of the human-powered vehicle A seen in Figures 18 and 19, with reference to the flowchart in Figure 21. The control program in Figure 21 is executed by the electric controller 72 at a predetermined time interval. In the control program in Figure 21, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control one or more of the following: (1) an electric actuator 14 for controlling the operating state of the control lever 12; (2) a locking state actuator 16A and a spring force adjustment actuator 16B for controlling the operating state of the front suspension 16; (3) a locking state actuator 18A and a spring force adjustment actuator 18B for controlling the operating state of the rear suspension 18; and (4) a seat height actuator 120A, a seat positioning actuator 120C, and a seat angle actuator 120D for controlling the operating state of the seat lever 120.

[0199] In the control program of Figure 21, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to set a plurality of predetermined control settings, as seen in Figures 22 to 25. For example, each of the predetermined control settings preferably includes one or more of a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting. Although the control program of Figure 21 is configured to control one of the suspension stiffness settings, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting of the human-powered vehicle A, it should be understood from the present invention that some settings may be omitted as needed and / or as appropriate. For example, the control program of Figure 21 may be configured to control only the lever height setting, or it may be configured to control one or more of the lever height setting, seat position setting, and / or seat angle setting of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0200] In the control program of Figure 21, the suspension stiffness settings include three stiffness settings (soft, medium, and stiff), where the stiff setting is stiffer than the medium setting, and the medium setting is stiffer than the soft setting. Alternatively, the control program of Figure 21 may have fewer or more stiffness settings for the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18. In the control program of Figure 21, the suspension travel settings include three travel settings (short, middle, and long), where the long setting allows for a travel one step longer than the middle setting, and the middle setting allows for a travel one step longer than the short setting. Alternatively, the control program of Figure 21 may have fewer or more travel settings for the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18. In the control program of Figure 21, the seat position settings include three seat position settings (front, middle, and rear), where the front setting is further forward than the middle setting, and the middle setting is further forward than the rear setting. Alternatively, the control program of Figure 21 may have fewer or more seat position settings for the seat S. In the control program of Figure 21, the seat angle settings include three seat angle settings (front-facing up, horizontal, and front-facing down). Alternatively, the control program of Figure 21 may have fewer or more seat angle settings for seat S.

[0201] As will be explained below, the electric controller 72 is configured to select one of the predetermined control settings, at least in part, based on whether the seat height of the height-adjustable seat post 120 is above or below a predetermined height. During the execution of the control program in FIG21, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 based on at least one of the following: a power input of the human-powered vehicle A, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, an operating state of a transmission device (e.g., a rear derailleur 22) of the human-powered vehicle A, and an operating state of a posture-changing device of the human-powered vehicle A. Furthermore, during the execution of the control program in FIG21, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the posture-changing device by selectively activating the electric actuators (i.e., the locked-state actuator 16A, the spring force adjustment actuator 16B, the locked-state actuator 18A, the spring force adjustment actuator 18B, the seat height actuator 120A, the seat positioning actuator 120C, and the seat angle actuator 120D). Therefore, for example, the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the seat positioning actuator 120C to move the seat S forward or backward based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle A, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A after determining whether an occupant is seated or not. Furthermore, for example, the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the seat angle actuator 120D to tilt the seat upward or downward based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle A, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

[0202] Furthermore, in the control program of Figure 21, in addition to the position of lever 12, the stiffness state of one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 is also set. Although all the electric actuators 14, locking state actuator 16A, spring force adjustment actuator 16B, locking state actuator 18A, spring force adjustment actuator 18B, seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C and seat angle actuator 120D of the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A are controlled by the control program of Figure 21, it should be understood from the present invention that the control program of Figure 21 can be modified so that only one or more of the posture changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A are controlled by the control program of Figure 21.

[0203] In the control program of Figure 21, the electric controller 72 is configured to prioritize the control of the electric actuator 14 according to the order of operating status, input power, pedal frequency and forward speed.

[0204] The control program in Figure 21 can be triggered in response to the detection of adjusting the seat lever 120 by operating the user-operable input device 32 or in response to the detection of operation of the user-operable input device 34 (i.e., operation of a shift switch). After the control program in Figure 21 is triggered by the electronic controller 72, the control program proceeds to step S50. Therefore, the electronic controller 72 is configured to start the control program to control the electric actuator 14 in response to the operation of adjusting at least one of the seat height and gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A by an input device.

[0205] In step S50, the electronic controller 72 determines an operating state of the height-adjustable seat post 120. Specifically, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the seat height is higher than a predetermined seat height (e.g., a middle seat height position). Therefore, the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post 120 includes whether the seat height of the height-adjustable seat post 120 is higher or lower than a predetermined height. Similar to the previous control procedure, the operating (downward / extended) state of the seat post 120 is based on the detection results from a post position sensor 120B regarding the operating state of the seat post 120. Specifically, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the seat post 120 is set to a first operating state (first or low seat position), a second operating state (second or high seat position), or a third operating state (third or middle seat position). The first or low seat position may be a first position range rather than a single individual position. Similarly, the second or high seat position may be a second position range rather than a single individual position, and the third or middle seat position may be a third position range rather than a single individual position. If the electric controller 72 determines that the first operating state exists (i.e., the seat post 120 is below a predetermined height, such as the third or middle seat position), the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S51.

[0206] In step S51, the electric controller 72 determines whether an occupant or rider is in a seated or unseatened position. Therefore, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 and at least one posture-changing device after determining whether an occupant is seated or unseatened. The seat S may have a seat load sensor 121 for detecting whether an occupant or rider is in a seated or unseatened position. If the electric controller 72 determines that the occupant or rider is in a seated position, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S52.

[0207] In step S52, the electric controller 72 performs a first control (FIG. 22), wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a first (high) position, such that the lever 12 has a high height. In other words, in step S52, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the occupant is seated when the seat height is lower than a predetermined height, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position. The first control of the control program in FIG. 21 (FIG. 22) also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. In the first control of the control program in FIG. 21, the electric controller 72 is basically configured to set predetermined control settings, as seen in FIG. 22. For example, as seen in FIG. 22, each of the predetermined control settings preferably includes one or more of a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting. The predetermined control settings of FIG. 22 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0208] For example, the predetermined control settings of the first control in Figure 22 include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "soft" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "soft" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "long" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "short" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to a "rear" position setting and a "front end up" setting.

[0209] If the electric controller 72 determines in step S51 that the occupant or rider is not in a seated position, then the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S53. Alternatively, one or more of steps S53, S54, and S55 may be omitted. If all steps S53, S54, and S55 are omitted, the electric controller 72 proceeds directly from step S51 to step S56. In step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to the second control (FIG. 23), such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second (low) position, as will be discussed below.

[0210] In step S53, based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78, it is determined that the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value (e.g., 200 watts – which can be changed by the user). If the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than the predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S52. As mentioned above, in step S52, the electric controller 72 performs a first control (FIG. 22), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. Therefore, after determining "no" in step S53, in step S52, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the power input is greater than a predetermined power value when the seat height is lower than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position.

[0211] On the other hand, in step S53, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S54. Alternatively, if steps S54 and S55 are omitted, the electric controller 72 proceeds directly to step S56. In step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to the second control (FIG. 23), such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first (low) position. In other words, after determining "yes" in step S53 and after omitting steps S54 and S55 or making a "yes" determination in steps S54 and S55, in step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the power input is less than or equal to the predetermined power value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0212] In step S54, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined cadence value (e.g., 75 RPM—which the user can change between 40 RPM and 90 RPM), the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S52. As mentioned above, in step S52, the electronic controller 72 performs a first control (FIG. 22), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. Specifically, after determining "no" in step S54, in step S52, the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the cadence is greater than a predetermined cadence value when the seat height is lower than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position.

[0213] On the other hand, in step S54, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S55. Alternatively, if step S55 is omitted, the electric controller 72 proceeds directly to step S56. In step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to the second control (FIG. 23), such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first (low) position. In other words, after determining "yes" in step S54 and after omitting step S55 or making a "yes" determination in step S55, in step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the cadence is less than the predetermined cadence value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0214] In step S55, the electric controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. If the electric controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined speed value (e.g., 30 km / h – which the user can change between 5 km / h and 40 km / h), the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S52. As mentioned above, in step S52, the electric controller 72 performs a first control (FIG. 22), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. Specifically, after determining "no" in step S55, in step S52, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the forward speed is greater than a predetermined speed value when the seat height is lower than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position.

[0215] On the other hand, in step S55, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S56. As mentioned above, in step S56, the electric controller 72 executes a second control (FIG. 23), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. In other words, after determining "yes" in step S55, in step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value when the seat height is lower than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0216] In step S56, the electric controller 72 executes a second control (FIG. 23), wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a second (low) position, causing the lever 12 to have a low height. The second control of the control program in FIG. 21 (FIG. 23) also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. In the second control of the control program in FIG. 21, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to set predetermined control settings, as seen in FIG. 23. For example, as seen in FIG. 23, each of the predetermined control settings preferably includes one or more of a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting. The predetermined control settings in FIG. 23 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0217] For example, the predetermined control settings of the second control in Figure 23 include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "stiff" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "stiff" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the second control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "short" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "long" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the second control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to a "forward" position setting and a "front-facing downward" setting.

[0218] Referring back to step S50 of Figure 21, the electric controller 72 determines the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post 120. If the electric controller 72 determines that the seat height is higher than the predetermined seat height (e.g., an intermediate seat height position), it determines that the second operating state exists. Therefore, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S57.

[0219] In step S57, the electric controller 72 determines whether an occupant or rider is in a seated or unseated position. The seat S may have a seat load sensor 121 for detecting whether an occupant or rider is in a seated or unseated position. If the electric controller 72 determines that the occupant or rider is not in a seated position, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S58.

[0220] Alternatively, one or more of steps S58, S59, and S60 may be omitted. If all steps S58, S59, and S60 are omitted, the electrical controller 72 may be configured to proceed directly from step S51 to one of steps S56, S61, and S64 as needed and / or as appropriate. In steps S56, S61, and S64, the electrical controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to one of the controls in Figures 23, 24, and 25, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in one of the first (high) position, the second (low) position, or the third (intermediate) position, as will be discussed below.

[0221] In step S58, based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78, the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value (e.g., 200 watts – which can be changed by the user). If the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than the predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S64. In step S64, the electric controller 72 executes a fourth control (FIG. 25), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. Specifically, after determining "no" in step S58, in step S64, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the power input is greater than a predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position.

[0222] More specifically, in step S64, the electric controller 72 executes a fourth control (FIG. 25), wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a first (high) position, so that the lever 12 has a high height. The fourth control of the control program in FIG. 21 (FIG. 25) also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. In the fourth control of the control program in FIG. 21, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to set predetermined control settings, as seen in FIG. 25. For example, as seen in FIG. 25, each of the predetermined control settings preferably includes one or more of a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting. The predetermined control settings in FIG. 25 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0223] For example, the predetermined control settings of the fourth control in Figure 25 include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "soft" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "soft" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the fourth control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "long" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "short" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the fourth control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to a "middle" position setting and a "preset" or "level" setting.

[0224] On the other hand, in step S58, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S59. Alternatively, if steps S59 and S60 are omitted, the electric controller 72 can be configured to proceed directly from step S58 to step S56 as needed and / or as appropriate. Therefore, after determining "no" in step S58 and after omitting steps S59 and S60 or making a "yes" determination in steps S59 and S60, in step S56 (the second control in FIG23), the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the power input is less than or equal to the predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0225] In step S59, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined cadence value (e.g., 75 RPM—which the user can change between 40 RPM and 90 RPM), the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S61. As mentioned above, in step S61, the electronic controller 72 performs a third control (FIG. 24), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. Specifically, after determining "no" in step S59, in step S61, the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the cadence is greater than a predetermined cadence value when the seat height is lower than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in a third position.

[0226] In step S61, the electric controller 72 executes a third control (FIG. 24), wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a third (intermediate) position, such that the lever 12 has an intermediate height. The third control of the control program in FIG. 21 (FIG. 24) also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. In the third control of the control program in FIG. 21, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to set predetermined control settings, as seen in FIG. 24. For example, as seen in FIG. 24, each of the predetermined control settings preferably includes one or more of a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting. The predetermined control settings in FIG. 24 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0227] For example, the predetermined control settings of the third control in Figure 24 include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "medium" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "medium" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the third control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "medium" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "short" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the third control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to a "middle" position setting and a "preset" or "level" setting.

[0228] On the other hand, in step S59, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S60. Alternatively, if step S60 is omitted, the electric controller 72 can be configured to proceed directly from step S58 to step S56. In other words, after determining "yes" in step S59 and after omitting step S60 or making a "yes" determination in step S60, in step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the cadence is less than the predetermined cadence value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0229] In step S60, the electric controller 72 determines whether the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value based on the detection result of one of the forward speed sensors 74. If the electric controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined speed value (e.g., 30 km / h – which the user can change between 5 km / h and 40 km / h), the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S61. As mentioned above, in step S61, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to the third control of FIG24, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third (intermediate) position, as will be discussed below. Therefore, after determining "no" in step S60, in step S61 (the third control of FIG24), the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the forward speed is greater than a predetermined speed value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third position between the first position and the second position.

[0230] On the other hand, in step S60, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current forward speed of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S56. As mentioned above, in step S56, the electric controller 72 performs a second control (FIG. 23), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting, as discussed above. Specifically, after determining "yes" in step S60, in step S56, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the second position.

[0231] Returning to step S57, the electric controller 72 determines whether an occupant or rider is in a seated or unseatened position. If the electric controller 72 determines in step S57 that the occupant or rider is in a seated position, then the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S62.

[0232] In step S62, based on the detection result of one of the power meters 78, the power input of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value (e.g., 200 watts – which can be changed by the user). If the electric controller 72 determines that the current power input of the rider to one of the human-powered vehicles A is greater than the predetermined power input value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S64. In step S64, the electric controller 72 executes the fourth control (FIG. 25), in which the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting, as discussed above. Therefore, after determining "no" in step S62, in step S64 (the fourth control in FIG. 25), the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the power input is greater than a predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position.

[0233] On the other hand, in step S62, if the electric controller 72 determines that the rider's current power input to one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S63. Alternatively, if step S63 is omitted, the electric controller 72 can be configured to proceed directly from step S58 to step S61 as needed and / or as appropriate. In step S61, the electric controller 72 is configured to control the electric actuator 14 according to the third control in FIG24, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third (intermediate) position. Specifically, after determining "yes" in step S62 and after omitting step S63 or making a "yes" determination in step S63, in step S61, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is seated, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the third (intermediate) position between the first position and the second position.

[0234] In step S63, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value based on the detection result of one of the cadence sensors 76. If the electronic controller 72 determines that the current cadence of the human-powered vehicle A is greater than the predetermined cadence value (e.g., 75 RPM—which the user can change between 40 RPM and 90 RPM), the electronic controller 72 proceeds to step S61. As mentioned above, in step S61, the electronic controller 72 executes a third control (FIG. 24), in which the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting. Therefore, after determining "no" in step S63, in step S61 (the third control in FIG. 24), the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the cadence is greater than a predetermined cadence value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is seated, so that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in the first position.

[0235] On the other hand, in step S63, if the electric controller 72 determines that the current cadence of one of the human-powered vehicles A is less than or equal to a predetermined cadence value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S64. In step S64, the electric controller 72 executes a fourth control (FIG. 25), wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A is controlled based on a predetermined control setting, as discussed above. Specifically, after determining "yes" in step S63, in step S64, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control the electric actuator 14 after determining that the cadence is less than the predetermined cadence value when the seat height is higher than a predetermined height and the occupant is seated, such that the second coupling portion 42 is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

[0236] The sixth example of a control program executed by the electronic controller 72 will now be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 26. The control program in Figure 26 is executed by the electronic controller 72 at a predetermined time interval. In the control program in Figure 26, the electronic controller 72 is configured to selectively control one or more of the following: (1) an electric actuator 14 for controlling the operating state of the control lever 12; (2) a locking state actuator 16A and a spring force adjustment actuator 16B for controlling the operating state of the front suspension 16; (3) a locking state actuator 18A and a spring force adjustment actuator 18B for controlling the operating state of the rear suspension 18; and (4) a seat height actuator 120A, a seat positioning actuator 120C, and a seat angle actuator 120D for controlling the operating state of the seat lever 120.

[0237] The control program is executed by the electric controller 72 at a predetermined time interval. In the control program of FIG26, the electric controller 72 is configured to selectively control one or more of the following: (1) an electric actuator 14 for controlling the operating state of the control lever 12; (2) a locking state actuator 16A and a spring force adjustment actuator 16B for controlling the operating state of the front suspension 16; (3) a locking state actuator 18A and a spring force adjustment actuator 18B for controlling the operating state of the rear suspension 18; and (4) a seat height actuator 120A, a seat positioning actuator 120C, and a seat angle actuator 120D for controlling the operating state of the seat lever 120.

[0238] In the control program of Figure 26, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to set a plurality of predetermined control settings. For example, each of the predetermined control settings preferably includes one or more of a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting. Although the control program of Figure 26 is configured to control one of the suspension stiffness settings, a suspension travel setting, a lever height setting, a seat position setting, and a seat angle setting of the human-powered vehicle A, it should be understood from the present invention that some settings may be omitted as needed and / or as appropriate. For example, the control program of Figure 26 may be configured to control only the lever height setting, or it may be configured to control one or more of the lever height setting, seat position setting, and / or seat angle setting of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0239] As will be explained below, the electric controller 72 is configured to select one of the predetermined control settings, at least in part, after determining that the seat height of the height-adjustable seat post 120 is higher or lower than a predetermined height.

[0240] During the execution of the control program in Figure 26, the electric controller 72 is essentially configured to selectively control the posture changing device by selectively activating the electric actuators (i.e., the locked-state actuator 16A, the spring force adjustment actuator 16B, the locked-state actuator 18A, the spring force adjustment actuator 18B, the seat height actuator 120A, the seat positioning actuator 120C, and the seat angle actuator 120D). Furthermore, in the control program of Figure 26, in addition to the position of lever 12, the stiffness state of one or both of the front suspension 16 and the rear suspension 18 is also set. Although all the electric actuators 14, locking state actuator 16A, spring force adjustment actuator 16B, locking state actuator 18A, spring force adjustment actuator 18B, seat height actuator 120A, seat positioning actuator 120C, and seat angle actuator 120D of the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle A are controlled by the control program of FIG26, it should be understood from the present invention that the control program of FIG26 can be modified so that only one or more of the posture changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A are controlled by the control program of FIG26.

[0241] The control program in Figure 26 can be triggered in response to the detection of adjusting the seat lever 120 by operating the user-operable input device 32 or in response to the detection of operation of the user-operable input device 34 (i.e., operation of a shift switch). After the control program in Figure 26 is triggered by the electronic controller 72, the control program proceeds to step S70. Therefore, the electronic controller 72 is configured to start the control program to control the electric actuator 14 in response to the operation of adjusting at least one of the seat height and gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A by an input device.

[0242] In step S70, the electronic controller 72 determines an operating state of the height-adjustable seat post 120. Specifically, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the seat height is higher than a predetermined seat height (e.g., a middle seat height position). Therefore, the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post 120 includes whether the seat height of the height-adjustable seat post 120 is higher or lower than a predetermined height. Similar to the previous control procedure, the operating (downward / extended) state of the seat post 120 is based on the detection results from a post position sensor 120B regarding the operating state of the seat post 120. Specifically, the electronic controller 72 determines whether the seat post 120 is set to a first operating state (first or low seat position), a second operating state (second or high seat position), or a third operating state (third or middle seat position). The first or low seat position may be a first position range rather than a single individual position. Similarly, the second or high seat position may be a second position range rather than a single individual position, and the third or middle seat position may be a third position range rather than a single individual position. If the electric controller 72 determines that the first operating state exists (i.e., the seat post 120 is below a predetermined height, such as the third or middle seat position), the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S71.

[0243] In step S71, the electric controller 72 uses the position sensor 22B to determine whether the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A is a first predetermined value (e.g., a gear ratio of 0.8). The first predetermined value is set based on the gear ratio that can be used in the transmission system DT. If the electric controller 72 determines that the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A is the first predetermined value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S72. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A is not the first predetermined value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S73.

[0244] In step S72, the electric controller 72 performs a control in which the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a second (low) position, causing the lever 12 to have a low height. The control in step S72 also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture-changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. For example, in the control of step S72, the predetermined control settings include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "stiff" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "stiff" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "short" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "long" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to a "forward" position setting and a "front-facing downward" setting. The predetermined control settings of step S72 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0245] In step S73, the electric controller 72 performs a control, wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a third (intermediate) position, such that the lever 12 has an intermediate height. The control in step S73 also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture-changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. For example, in the control of step S73, the predetermined control settings include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "medium" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "medium" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to an "intermediate" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "short" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to an "intermediate" position setting and a "level" setting. The predetermined control settings of step S73 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0246] Returning to step S70, the electric controller 72 determines one of the operating states of the height-adjustable seat post 120 (i.e., whether the seat height is higher than a predetermined seat height (e.g., a middle seat height position)). If the electric controller 72 determines that a second operating state exists (i.e., the seat post 120 is higher than a predetermined height, such as a third or middle seat position), then the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S74.

[0247] In step S74, the electric controller 72 uses the position sensor 22B to determine whether the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A is within a second predetermined value (e.g., a gear ratio of 1.5). The second predetermined value is set based on the gear ratio that can be used in the transmission system DT. If the electric controller 72 determines that the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A is within the second predetermined value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S75. On the other hand, if the electric controller 72 determines that the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle A is not within the second predetermined value, the electric controller 72 proceeds to step S76.

[0248] In step S75, the electric controller 72 performs a control, wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a first (high) position, such that the lever 12 has a high height. The control in step S75 also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture-changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. For example, in the control of step S75, the predetermined control settings include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "soft" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "soft" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "long" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "short" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to a "rear" position setting and a "front end up" setting. The predetermined control settings of step S75 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0249] In step S76, the electric controller 72 performs a control, wherein the electric actuator 14 sets the second coupling portion 42 to a third (intermediate) position, such that the lever 12 has an intermediate height. The control in step S76 also includes a plurality of predetermined control settings for other posture-changing devices of the human-powered vehicle A. For example, in the control of step S76, the predetermined control settings include a front damper setting or suspension stiffness setting, wherein the front suspension is set to a "medium" damping or stiffness setting and the rear suspension is set to a "medium" damping or stiffness setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a suspension travel setting, wherein the front suspension is set to an "intermediate" travel setting and the rear suspension is set to a "short" travel setting. Furthermore, for example, the predetermined control settings of the first control include a front and rear seat position setting and a seat angle setting, wherein the seat S is set to an "intermediate" position setting and a "level" setting. The predetermined control settings of step S76 are pre-stored in the memory device 72B of the electric controller 72.

[0250] In understanding the scope of this invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open-ended terms, specifically referring to the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integrals, and / or steps, but not excluding the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integrals, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part," "section," "part," "component," or "element" used in the singular may have a dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0251] As used herein, the following directional terms, "facing the frame side," "not facing the frame side," "forward," "backward," "front," "back," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," and "lateral," and any other similar directional terms, refer to the direction of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position equipped with controls. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe controls should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position equipped with controls on a horizontal plane. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" as viewed from the right side when viewed from behind the human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) and "left" as viewed from the left side when viewed from behind the human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle).

[0252] The phrase "at least one of..." as used in this invention means "one or more" of a desired option. For example, if the number of options is 2, then the phrase "at least one of..." as used in this invention means "only one single option" or "all two options". As another example, if the number of options is equal to or greater than 3, then the phrase "at least one of..." as used in this invention means "only one single option" or "any combination of two or more options". Furthermore, the term "and / or" as used in this invention means "one or both of...".

[0253] Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, such components should not be limited to these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish components from one another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of the invention, one of the first components discussed above may be referred to as a second component, and vice versa.

[0254] The term "attached" or "attaching" as used herein encompasses configurations in which a component is directly fixed to another component by attaching it directly to the component; configurations in which a component is indirectly fixed to another component by attaching it to (a number of) intermediate components, which in turn are attached to the other component; and configurations in which one component is integrated with another component (i.e., one component is essentially part of the other component). This definition also applies to terms with similar meanings, such as "combined," "connected," "coupled," "installed," "joined," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "roughly" as used herein refer to a degree of deviation of the modified term that does not significantly alter the final result.

[0255] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, those skilled in the art will understand from this invention that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless specifically stated otherwise, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or as appropriate, provided that the changes do not substantially affect their desired function. Unless specifically stated otherwise, components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other may have an intermediate structure disposed between them, provided that the changes do not substantially affect their desired function. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the function of one element may be performed by two, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment may be used in another embodiment. All advantages may not be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature, alone or in combination with other features, that differs from the prior art should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's further invention, which includes the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such feature(e.g.). Therefore, the above description of embodiments of the invention is illustrative only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0256] 10: Control device 12: pole 12A: Rod position sensor 14: Electric actuator 16: Front Suspension 16a: Steering column, steering tube / steering column 16A: Locked-up state actuator 16B: Spring force adjusting actuator 16C: Front suspension operation status sensor 18: Rear Suspension 18A: Locked-up state actuator 18B: Spring force adjusting actuator 18C: Rear suspension operation status sensor 20: Height-adjustable seat post 20A: Electric Actuator 20B: Seatpost Position Sensor 22: Rear transmission 22A: Stroke Actuator 22B: Position sensor 24: Monitor 26: User-operable input device 28: Touch panel 30: User-operable input device 32: User-operable input device 34: User-operable input device 36: Reversible electric motor 38: Sliding screw 40: First coupling part 42: Second coupling part 44: Movable parts 46: Pliers 46a: Curved inner surface 48: Bolt 50: First clamping component 50a: Curved inner surface 52: Second clamping component 52a: Curved inner surface 54: Bolt 60: Linkage assembly 62: First Link 64: Second Link 70: Component Control System 72: Electrical controller 72A: Processor 72B: Memory device 72C: Communication circuit / communication device 74: Forward speed sensor 76: Chronometry Sensor 78: Power Meter 110: Control device 120: Seatpost 120A: Seat height actuator 120B: Seatpost Position Sensor 120C: Seat positioning actuator 120D: Seat Angle Actuator 121: Vehicle seat load sensor A: Human-powered transportation BP: Main battery pack C: Crankshaft CA1: Crankshaft CA2: Crank arm CN: Chain DT: Drivetrain E: Electric auxiliary unit FB: Front frame FS: Front sprocket FW: Front wheel H: Handle HR: Wheel hub PD: Pedal RB: Rear frame RS: Rear sprocket RW: Rear wheel S: Seat / Saddle S10: Steps S11: Steps S12: Steps S13: Steps S14: Steps S15: Steps S16: Steps S17: Steps S20: Steps S21: Steps S22: Steps S23: Steps S24: Steps S25: Steps S26: Steps S27: Steps S28: Steps S29: Steps S30: Steps S31: Steps S32: Steps S33: Steps S34: Steps S35: Steps S36: Steps S37: Steps S38: Steps S39: Steps S40: Steps S41: Steps S42: Steps S43: Steps S44: Steps S45: Steps S46: Steps S47: Steps S50: Steps S51: Steps S52: Steps S53: Steps S54: Steps S55: Steps S56: Steps S57: Steps S58: Steps S59: Steps S60: Steps S61: Steps S62: Steps S63: Steps S64: Steps S70: Steps S71: Steps S72: Steps S73: Steps S74: Steps S75: Steps S76: Steps VB: Body

Claims

1. A control device (10) for a human-powered vehicle, the human-powered vehicle having: a lever (12) comprising: a first coupling portion (40) configured to couple to a steering column (16a); a second coupling portion (42) configured to couple to a handle; and a movable portion (44) coupling the second coupling portion (42) to the first coupling portion (40) such that the second coupling portion (42) is movable relative to the first coupling portion (40) between a first position and a second position different from the first position; an electric actuator (14) configured to actuate the movable portion (44); and a posture changing device configured to change the posture of a user of the human-powered vehicle, the control device (10) comprising: An electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) based on at least one of a power input of the human-powered vehicle, a forward speed of the human-powered vehicle, a cadence of the human-powered vehicle, an operating state of a transmission device of the human-powered vehicle, and an operating state of a posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle; wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a seat angle actuator, and the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the seat angle actuator to tilt the seat up or down based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle after determining whether an occupant is seated or not.

2. The control device (10) of claim 1, wherein the second coupling portion (42) located in the second position is lower than the second coupling portion (42) located in the first position.

3. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a suspension (16), and the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) according to the operating state of the suspension (16).

4. The control device (10) of claim 3, wherein the operating state of the suspension includes a first stiffness state and a second stiffness state, the second stiffness state being more stiff than the first stiffness state, and the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that, after determining the second stiffness state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

5. The control device (10) of claim 3, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the first position.

6. The control device (10) of claim 3, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the pedal frequency is less than or equal to a predetermined pedal frequency value, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

7. The control device (10) of claim 6, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the third position.

8. The control device (10) of claim 7, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the power input is greater than the predetermined power value, the second coupling portion is positioned in the second position.

9. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to preferentially control the electric actuator (14) in the order of the operating state, the forward speed, the cadence and the input power.

10. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a height-adjustable seat post (20), and the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) according to one of the operating states of the height-adjustable seat post (20).

11. The control device (10) of claim 10, wherein the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post (20) includes a first operating state in which the seat of one of the human-powered vehicles is positioned in a first seat position and a second operating state in which the seat is positioned in a second seat position above the first seat position.

12. The control device (10) of claim 11, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that, after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value when the height-adjustable seat (20) is in the first operating state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the first position.

13. The control device (10) of claim 11, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the height-adjustable seat post (20) is in the first operating state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

14. The control device (10) of claim 11, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value when the height-adjustable seat post (20) is in the first operating state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

15. The control device (10) of claim 11, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value when the height-adjustable seat (20) is in the second operating state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

16. The control device (10) of claim 11, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the height-adjustable seat post (20) is in the second operating state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

17. The control device (10) of claim 11, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value when the height-adjustable seat post (20) is in the second operating state, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

18. The control device (10) of claim 12, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to preferentially control the electric actuator (14) in the order of the operating state, the input power, the cadence and the forward speed.

19. The control device (10) of claim 10, wherein the operating state of the height-adjustable seat post (20) includes a seat height of the height-adjustable seat post (20) being higher or lower than a predetermined height.

20. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the occupant is seated when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a first position.

21. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to a predetermined power value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

22. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the first position.

23. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to a predetermined speed value when the seat height is lower than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

24. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the power input is less than or equal to the predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

25. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the pedal frequency is greater than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

26. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the forward speed is less than or equal to the predetermined speed value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the second position.

27. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the power input is greater than a predetermined power value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is not seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in the first position.

28. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electric actuator (14) such that after determining that the pedal frequency is less than a predetermined pedal frequency value when the seat height is higher than the predetermined height and the occupant is seated, the second coupling portion (42) is positioned in a third position between the first position and the second position.

29. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to initiate a control program to control the electric actuator (14) in response to an operation of an input device to adjust at least one of the seat height of one of the human-powered vehicles and the gear ratio of one of the human-powered vehicles.

30. The control device (10) of claim 19, wherein the electric controller (72) includes a plurality of predetermined control settings, each of the preset control settings including a suspension stiffness setting, a suspension travel setting, a rod (12) height setting, a seat position setting and a seat angle setting, and the electric controller (72) is configured to select one of the predetermined control settings at least in part after determining that the seat height of the height-adjustable seat rod (20) is higher or lower than the predetermined height.

31. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the posture changing device of the human-powered vehicle includes a seat positioning actuator, and the electric controller (72) is configured to selectively control the seat positioning actuator to move the seat forward or backward based on at least one of the power input of the human-powered vehicle, the cadence of the human-powered vehicle, and the forward speed of the human-powered vehicle after determining that an occupant is seated or not seated.

32. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to preferentially control the electric actuator (14) in the order of the operating state, the input power, the cadence and the forward speed.

33. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the electrical controller (72) is configured to selectively control the electrical actuator (14) and at least one posture changing device after determining that an occupant is seated or not seated.

34. The control device (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the electric controller (72) is configured to connect to a computer storage device to selectively change at least one of a predetermined value of the power input, the forward speed, the cadence and the operating state based on a user input.

35. A component control system comprising a control device (10) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 34, the component control system comprising: The rod (12), the electric actuator (14), and the at least one posture changing device.

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