Sensor device, bicycle wheel with an integrated sensor device, and rim for a bicycle wheel

Abstract

A bicycle wheel includes a rim comprising: a radially inner portion disposed along an inner circumference of the rim; a first sidewall; and a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall. The first and second sidewalls extend radially outward from the radially inner portion. A radially outer tire engagement portion is disposed along an outer circumference of the rim. A socket is located within the radially inner portion. A sensing device includes: a housing disposed within the socket such that a portion of the housing forms part of the radially inner portion of the rim; and a pressure sensor supported by the housing. An air valve extends through and is supported by the housing. The pressure sensor is fluidly connected to a volume between a first tire-holding portion and a second tire-holding portion of the radially outer tire engagement portion, such that the pressure sensor is configured to determine a pressure of fluid within the volume. The wheel includes: a hub attachable to a bicycle frame; and a plurality of spokes disposed between the hub and the rim.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application is a partial continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 630,456, filed on April 9, 2024, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 464,220, filed on May 5, 2023, entitled “Bicycle Wheel with Integrated Sensor Device”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure is generally about bicycle wheel rims, and more specifically about bicycle wheel rims with integrated sensor devices. Prior Technology

[0003] A smart wheel accessory can be attached to the outer surface of a rim or wheel. This smart wheel accessory can negatively affect the system's aerodynamic drag, aesthetics, and balance.

[0004] Alternatively, one of the smart wheel fittings, including a pressure sensor, may be exposed and / or anchored to an air-fill valve. This air-fill valve can be used to introduce sealant into a tire cavity and release air pressure from the tire cavity. The air released from the tire cavity can eject the sealant through the air-fill valve. Exposure of the pressure sensor to the sealant may cause blockage in a sensor port connecting the pressure sensor to the tire cavity, potentially leading to inaccurate sensor measurements. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one example, a bicycle wheel includes a rim comprising: a radially inner portion disposed along an inner circumference of the rim; a first sidewall; and a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall. The first and second sidewalls extend radially outward from the radially inner portion. The rim includes a radially outer tire engagement portion disposed along an outer circumference of the rim. The radially outer tire engagement portion includes: a first tire holding portion extending away from the first sidewall; and a second tire holding portion extending away from the second sidewall, such that the first and second tire holding portions are spaced apart from each other. The rim includes a socket within the radially inner portion. The bicycle wheel includes a sensing device comprising: a housing disposed within the socket such that a portion of the housing forms a portion of the radially inner portion of the rim; and a pressure sensor supported by the housing. An air valve extends through and is supported by the housing of the sensing device. The pressure sensor is fluidly connected to a volume between the first tire-holding portion and the second tire-holding portion of the radially outer tire engagement section, such that the pressure sensor is configured to determine a pressure of a fluid within the volume. The bicycle wheel includes: a hub that can be attached to a bicycle frame; and a plurality of spokes disposed between the hub and the rim.

[0006] In one example, the sensor device is attached to the radially outer tire coupling portion via the air valve.

[0007] In one example, the sensor further includes a power source supported within the housing. This power source is accessible at the inner circumference of the wheel rim.

[0008] In one example, the housing includes a hollow body and a cover attached to the hollow body. The cover forms part of the inner circumference of the rim. The cover includes an opening for receiving the air valve.

[0009] In one example, the housing also includes a latch rotatably attached to the hollow body. The latch is rotatable between a first position and a second position. In the second position, the latch is locked relative to the hollow body.

[0010] In one example, the sensor device further includes a power source supported within the housing. This power source can be removed from the housing when the latch is in the first position.

[0011] In one example, the cover of the housing includes a first opening, and one of the latches of the housing includes a second opening. The air valve extends through the first and second openings.

[0012] In one example, one end of the air valve extending through the second opening is attached to the tire connection portion of the wheel rim.

[0013] In one example, the sensor device further includes an indicator supported at or near the cover of the housing and a processor supported on the housing. The processor is electrically connected to the pressure sensor, the battery pack, and the indicator. The processor is configured to compare a determined pressure within the tire cavity with a predetermined pressure range. When, based on the comparison of the determined pressure and the predetermined pressure range, the determined pressure is outside the predetermined pressure range, the indicator is commanded to generate a first color of light. When, based on the comparison of the determined pressure and the predetermined pressure range, the determined pressure is within the predetermined pressure range, the indicator is commanded to generate a second color of light. The second color is different from the first color.

[0014] In one example, the socket within the radially inner portion of the rim is located at a first circumferential position along one of the inner circumferences of the rim. The bicycle wheel further includes a balance at a second circumferential position along one of the inner circumferences of the rim. This second circumferential position differs from the first circumferential position.

[0015] In one example, the radially inner portion of the wheel rim is made of a composite laminate. The balance is formed by a first portion of the composite laminate. The socket is located within a second portion of the composite laminate. The first portion of the composite laminate is thicker than the second portion of the composite laminate.

[0016] In one example, a portion of the radially inner portion of the rim surrounding the socket is thicker than other portions of the radially inner portion of the rim.

[0017] In one example, the socket is formed by an opening through the radially inner portion of the rim. A first flange extends around the opening. The cover of the housing has a second flange of a predetermined size and shape to interface with the first flange of the socket, such that the cover of the housing is flush with the radially inner portion of the rim, and the sensor device is fixed to the rim at the socket.

[0018] In one example, a sensor device assembled to determine the tire pressure of one wheel of a bicycle includes a housing that can be housed within a socket in a radially inner portion of a rim of the bicycle wheel, such that a portion of the housing forms part of the radially inner portion of the rim. The housing includes first and second openings through which an air valve of the wheel extends. The sensor device also includes a pressure sensor supported by the housing and assembled to be housed within a cavity formed between the radially inner portion and a radially outer portion of the rim. A battery pack housing is assembled to support a battery pack. The battery pack housing can be housed within the housing such that the battery pack is assembled to power the pressure sensor when the battery pack is supported within the battery pack housing and the battery pack housing is housed within the housing.

[0019] In one example, the housing includes a hollow body and a cover attached to the hollow body. The cover is assembled to form a portion of the inner circumference of one of the wheel rims. The housing also includes a latch rotatably attached to the hollow body. The latch is rotatable between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the latch is locked relative to the hollow body. The battery pack can be removed from the housing when the latch is in the open position.

[0020] In one example, the first opening is located in the cover, and the second opening is located in the latch. The air valve is received through the first and second openings, such that the air valve is attached to the housing of the wheel rim.

[0021] In one example, the sensor device further includes a light-emitting diode (LED) device supported by the cover and configured to be powered by the battery pack. The LED is configured to produce a first color of light when a determined pressure is within a predetermined pressure range, and a second color when the determined pressure is outside the predetermined pressure range. The first color is different from the second color.

[0022] In one example, a bicycle rim includes: a radially inner portion disposed along an inner circumference of the rim; a first sidewall; and a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall. The first and second sidewalls extend radially outward from the radially inner portion. The rim includes a radially outer tire engagement portion disposed along an outer circumference of the rim. The radially outer tire engagement portion extends from the first and second sidewalls, respectively. The rim includes a socket located within the radially inner portion at a first circumferential portion along the inner circumference of the rim. The socket is configured to receive a sensor device configured to accommodate a portion of an air valve of the bicycle wheel. The rim includes a balance at a second circumferential position along the inner circumference of the rim. The second circumferential position differs from the first circumferential position. The balance is formed by a first portion of a composite laminate. The socket is located within the second portion of the composite laminate. The first portion of the composite laminate is thicker than the second portion of the composite laminate.

[0023] In one example, the second circumferential position is relative to the first circumferential position. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0024] The object, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent after reading the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 is a side view of a bicycle that can be constructed to utilize one of the rims disclosed herein;

[0026] Figure 2 is a side view of an embodiment of a wheel rim for a bicycle such as that in Figure 1, which has an installed air valve and a sensor device;

[0027] Figure 3 is a first front view of a portion of a rim of a bicycle, such as that in Figure 1, having a first embodiment of a sensor device mounted thereon;

[0028] Figure 4 is a first side view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 3, which has a first embodiment of an installed sensor device;

[0029] Figure 5 is a first perspective view of a portion of the rim of Figure 3, showing a first embodiment with an installed sensor device;

[0030] Figure 6 is a second perspective view of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 3, showing a first embodiment with an installed sensor device;

[0031] Figure 7 is a first exploded perspective view of part of the wheel rim in Figure 3;

[0032] Figure 8 is a second side view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 3, showing a first embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0033] Figure 9 is a cross-section of the rim of Figure 8 taken along axis 8-8;

[0034] Figure 10 is a second front view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 3, which has a first embodiment of the mounted sensor device;

[0035] Figure 11 is a cross-section of the rim of Figure 10 taken along axis 10-10;

[0036] Figure 12 is a first cross-section of a portion of the sensor device of Figure 3, illustrating a battery pack housing in an unlocked position relative to a housing of the sensor device;

[0037] Figure 13 is a second cross-section of a portion of the sensor device in Figure 3, illustrating a fluid path;

[0038] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of a variation of one of the first embodiments of the sensor device in Figure 3;

[0039] Figure 15 is a cross-section of a portion of a rim of a bicycle, such as that in Figure 1, having a bolt with a port for fluid connection to a sensor device attached to the rim;

[0040] Figure 16 is a front view of a portion of a rim of a bicycle, such as that of Figure 1, before a sensor device is attached to the rim according to a second embodiment.

[0041] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the portion of the wheel rim in Figure 16 before the sensor device is attached to the wheel rim in the second embodiment;

[0042] Figure 18 is a first side view of the sensor device of Figure 16, wherein one of the covers of the sensor device is in an extended position relative to one of the housings of the sensor device;

[0043] Figure 19 is a second side view of the sensor device of Figure 16, wherein the cover of the sensor device is in an extended position relative to the housing of the sensor device;

[0044] Figure 20 is a front view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 16, showing a second embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0045] Figure 21 is a first side view of the sensor device of Figure 16, wherein one of the covers of the sensor device is in a retracted position relative to one of the housings of the sensor device;

[0046] Figure 22 is a second side view of the sensor device of Figure 16, wherein the cover of the sensor device is in a retracted position relative to the housing of the sensor device;

[0047] Figure 23 is a cross-section of a portion of the sensor device in Figure 16, illustrating a fluid path;

[0048] Figure 24 is a first perspective view of a portion of a rim of a bicycle, such as that in Figure 1, having a third embodiment of a sensor device mounted thereon;

[0049] Figure 25 is a second perspective view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 24, showing a third embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0050] Figure 26 is a bottom view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 24, showing a third embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0051] Figure 27 is a top view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 24, showing a third embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0052] Figure 28 is a front view of a portion of the wheel rim of Figure 24, which has a third embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0053] Figure 29 is a cross-section of the rim of Figure 28 taken along axis 28-28;

[0054] Figure 30 is a side view of a portion of the rim of Figure 24, showing a third embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0055] Figure 31 is a cross-section of the rim of Figure 30 taken along axis 30-30;

[0056] Figure 32 is a side view of another embodiment of a rim for a bicycle, such as that in Figure 1, having an installed air valve and a sensor device;

[0057] Figure 33 is a front view of a portion of a rim for a bicycle, such as the rim of Figure 32, having a fourth embodiment of a sensor device mounted thereon;

[0058] Figure 34 is a side view of a portion of the rim of Figure 33, which has a fourth embodiment with a mounted sensor device;

[0059] Figure 35 is a first perspective view of a portion of the rim of Figure 33, which has a fourth embodiment with an installed sensor device;

[0060] Figure 36 is a second perspective view of a portion of the rim of Figure 33, which has a fourth embodiment with an installed sensor device;

[0061] Figure 37 is a first exploded perspective view of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33;

[0062] Figure 38 shows a first cross-section of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33;

[0063] Figure 39 shows a second cross-section of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33;

[0064] Figure 40 shows a third cross-section of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33;

[0065] Figure 41 shows a fourth cross-section of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33;

[0066] Figure 42 shows a fifth section of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33;

[0067] Figure 43 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the sensor device, wherein a latch is in a closed position;

[0068] Figure 44 is a perspective view of the sensor device in Figure 43, wherein the latch is in an open position;

[0069] Figure 45 is a perspective view of the sensor device of Figure 44, wherein a battery pack housing is removed from one of the housings of the sensor device;

[0070] Figure 46 is a perspective view of the sensor device in Figure 45, in which a battery pack is removed from the battery pack housing;

[0071] Figure 47 is a second exploded perspective view of a portion of the wheel rim in Figure 33, wherein an air valve is installed at the wheel rim;

[0072] Figure 48 is a schematic diagram of a wheel assembly including a sensor device;

[0073] Figure 49A is a plot of the magnetometer output over time;

[0074] Figure 49B is a plot of the magnetometer output over time; and

[0075] Figure 49C is a plot of the magnetometer output over time. Implementation

[0076] To improve the aerodynamic drag performance and balance of a bicycle wheel, including a sensor device, the sensor device is positioned within a cavity in one of the rims of the bicycle wheel. The sensor device includes a plurality of electronic components assembled to measure data and transmit that data to a computing device, such as a mobile phone or a bicycle computer, for communication (e.g., display) with a user. The measured data may include, for example, tire pressure data, wheel speed data, odometer data, rim health data, wheel tilt and yaw data, product data, road feedback data, LED status indicators, and / or other data.

[0077] The socket may have an interface complementary to the sensor device, such that the socket occludes the sensor device to improve aerodynamic performance. The socket may be located within a radially inner portion of the wheel rim. For example, the wheel rim may be formed with a reinforced opening, creating the socket (e.g., a cavity) within the radially inner portion of the wheel rim. The sensor device may be inserted into the cavity and anchored to the radially inner portion of the wheel rim and / or a radially outer tire engagement portion of the wheel rim. The sensor device may be anchored to the wheel rim such that it can be removed from the wheel rim without removing a tire from the wheel rim. In one embodiment, a battery housing and a battery pack supported within the battery housing may be accessible without removing the sensor device from the wheel rim.

[0078] The sensor device can be anchored to the radially inner portion of the rim and / or one radially outer tire-connecting portion of the rim in a variety of different ways. In one embodiment, the sensor device is anchored using an air valve that allows airflow into and out of the tire chamber and also acts as a pressure port within the tire chamber. In another embodiment, the sensor device is anchored using a bolt, which also acts as a pressure port within the tire chamber. In yet another embodiment, the sensor device can be attached to the radially inner portion of the rim without relying on the radially outer tire-connecting portion of the rim for support. In this embodiment, a separate pressure port can be installed within the radially outer tire-connecting portion of the rim to forward pressure to the sensor device. This can be accomplished using rigid or flexible materials. Anchoring the sensor device to the rim provides a fluid connection between one pressure sensing port of the sensor device and the tire chamber, which is blinded. This reduces the possibility of sealant obstruction at the sensor port.

[0079] In one embodiment, the socket, air-fill valve, and sensor device may be located at the same socket. The rim may include a counterweight positioned opposite the socket. One housing of the sensor device may include a first fluid passage through which the air-fill valve extends, and a second fluid passage fluidly connecting the first fluid passage and thus the air-fill valve to a pressure sensor of the sensor device. The first and second fluid passages may extend in directions perpendicular to each other. One diameter of the first fluid passage may be larger than one diameter of the second fluid passage. When air moves, for example, through the air-fill valve, the orientation and size of the second fluid passage relative to the first fluid passage maximizes the removal of sealant that can be placed within the second fluid passage and / or at the pressure sensor.

[0080] In another embodiment, the socket and therefore the sensor device can be positioned opposite the air-fill valve. Separating the air-fill valve from a sensor port for a pressure sensor of one of the sensor devices helps reduce the exposure of that sensor port to sealant, which reduces or prevents the sensor device from being blocked by sealant. Positioning the sensor device opposite to, rather than on, the air-fill valve helps to rebalance the wheel for optimal performance and allows for compensation for any weight of the sensor device on the air-fill valve side. This allows the sensor device to accommodate a larger battery pack and perform more functions for a given battery pack life. Additionally, design limitations can be mitigated by separating the pressure sensor from the air-fill valve, which allows for the selection of an appropriate air-fill valve. For example, the air-fill valve can be selected to obtain optimal air-fill characteristics.

[0081] In one embodiment, the sensor device includes a printed circuit board (PCB) that supports a pressure sensor coupled to a tube. The tube is connected to a bladder filled (e.g., partially filled) with an incompressible fluid. The fluid-filled bladder is exposed to tire pressure within the tire cavity and the pressure is transmitted to the sensor via a fluid path along the tube. The tube transmitting pressure between the bladder and the pressure sensor can be of any arbitrary length, allowing for optimal placement of the sensor device and / or the bladder to best suit wheel design requirements.

[0082] One or more of the bicycle wheels in this embodiment include, for example, a rim, which includes: a radially inner portion disposed along an inner circumference of the rim; a first sidewall; and a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall. The first and second sidewalls extend radially outward from the radially inner portion. The rim includes a radially outer tire engagement portion disposed along an outer circumference of the rim. The radially outer tire engagement portion includes: a first tire holding portion extending away from the first sidewall; and a second tire holding portion extending away from the second sidewall, such that the first and second tire holding portions are spaced apart from each other. The rim includes a socket within the radially inner portion. The bicycle wheel includes a sensing device disposed within the socket and attached to the radially inner portion, the radially outer tire engagement portion, or both the radially inner portion and the radially outer tire engagement portion. The sensing device includes a housing and a pressure sensor supported by the housing. The bicycle wheel includes a flexible container at least partially filled with a fluid. The flexible container is disposed within a volume between the first tire clamping portion and the second tire clamping portion of the radially outer tire connection. A pressure sensor is fluidly connected to the interior of one of the flexible containers, such that the pressure sensor is configured to determine a pressure of the fluid within the flexible container. In one example, the fluid may be a gas or a liquid.

[0083] This document describes wireless communication between components. While this specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in specific wireless communication embodiments with reference to specific standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards for Internet and other packet-switched network transmissions (e.g., TCP / IP, UDP / IP, HTML, HTTP, HTTPS) represent examples of current technological levels. These standards are periodically replaced by faster or more efficient equivalents with essentially the same functionality. Accordingly, alternative standards and protocols having the same or similar functionality as disclosed herein are considered their equivalents.

[0084] In one embodiment, the components of the bicycle described herein will communicate with each other. In the case of wireless communication, these components will initially pair to allow secure communication between the components on the bicycle without interference from devices from unrelated systems. One or more of these components may also be paired with a separate device, such as a computer, tablet, or telephone (e.g., a mobile computing device). This paired device can provide a user interface to allow the user to communicate with the components on the bicycle. Examples of communication include updating firmware, setting variables, and running diagnostic tools and analyses.

[0085] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the bicycle component control disclosed herein will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure. In the drawings, which use similar reference numerals throughout, these numerals denote identical or substantially similar components in the various disclosed examples. Furthermore, specific examples of specific combinations of the forms, features, and components disclosed herein are disclosed and described herein. However, it is possible that each form, feature, and / or component disclosed herein may be used independently of or in different combinations with other forms, features, and components disclosed herein in other examples not disclosed or described herein.

[0086] Referring now to the figures, Figure 1 generally illustrates a bicycle 50 that utilizes one or more components (e.g., rims) constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. The bicycle 50 includes: a frame 52 (e.g., a bicycle frame); a front wheel 54 and a rear wheel 56, each rotatably attached to the frame 52; and a drive chain 58. A front brake 60 is configured to brake the front wheel 54, and a rear brake 62 is configured to brake the rear wheel 56. The bicycle 50 also typically has a seat 64 located near one rear end of the frame 52 and supported on a pole 66 connected to the frame 52. The bicycle 50 also has handlebars 68 located near one front end of the frame 52. A brake lever 70 is supported on the handlebars 68 for actuating the front brake 60, the rear brake 62, or both the front brake 60 and the rear brake 62. If the brake lever 70 actuates only one of the front brake 60 or the rear brake 62, a second brake lever (not shown) may also be configured to actuate the other brake. One of the forward and / or forward riding directions or orientations of the bicycle 50 is indicated by the direction of arrow A in Figure 1. Thus, one of the forward directions of the bicycle 50 is indicated by the direction of arrow A. Although the bicycle 50 illustrated in Figure 1 is a road bicycle with curved handlebars 68, this disclosure is applicable to any type of bicycle, including mountain bikes with full or partial suspension.

[0087] The drive chain 58 has a chain C and a front sprocket assembly 72, which is coaxially mounted with a crank assembly 74 (e.g., including two crank arms) having pedals 76. The drive chain 58 also includes a rear sprocket assembly 78, which is coaxially mounted with a rear wheel 56 and a rear gear shifting mechanism such as a rear derailleur 80 (e.g., an electric rear derailleur).

[0088] As illustrated in Figure 1, the front sprocket assembly 72 may include one or more coaxially mounted chain links, gears, or sprockets. In this example, the front sprocket assembly 72 has a sprocket F. The sprocket F has teeth 82 arranged around its individual circumference. As shown in Figure 1, the rear sprocket assembly 78 may include a plurality of coaxially mounted gears, chain links, or sprockets G. Each sprocket G1-G8 also has teeth 84 arranged around its individual circumference. The number of teeth 84 on the rear sprockets G1-G8 may gradually decrease from the largest diameter rear sprocket G1 to the smallest diameter sprocket G8. Although not described in any detail herein, a front gear changer 85 is operable to move from a first operating position to a second operating position to move the chain C between the front sprockets F. Similarly, the rear derailleur 80 may be operable to move between different operating positions to switch the chain C to one of the selected rear sprockets G1-G8. In one embodiment, the rear sprocket assembly 78 may have more or fewer sprockets G. For example, in one embodiment, the rear sprocket assembly 78 may have eleven, twelve, or thirteen sprockets. The dimensions and configuration of the rear derailleur 80 may be modified to accommodate a particular implementation of a plurality of sprockets. For example, an angle and length of a linkage assembly and / or a configuration of a cage in the rear derailleur 80 may be modified to accommodate a particular sprocket combination.

[0089] The rear derailleur 80 is illustrated as a wireless, electrically actuated rear derailleur, which is mounted or can be mounted to the frame 52 of the bicycle 50 or a frame attachment structure. The electric rear derailleur 80 has a base member 86 (e.g., a b-joint) mounted to the bicycle frame 52. A linkage 88 has two links L, which are pivotally connected to the base member 86 at a linkage connection of the base member. A movable member 90 (e.g., a p-joint) is connected to the linkage 88 at a linkage connection of the movable member. A chain guide assembly 92 (e.g., a cage) is assembled to engage and maintain tension in the chain, and has one or more cage plates 93 having a proximal end pivotally connected to a portion of the movable member 90. The cage plate 93 can rotate or pivot about a cage rotation axis in a damping direction and a chain tension direction. Other gear conversion systems, such as mechanical or hydraulic control and / or actuation systems, may also be used.

[0090] A motor module may be carried on an electric rear derailleur 80 along with a battery pack. The battery pack supplies power to the motor module. In one example, the motor module is located in a movable member 90. However, the motor module may alternatively be located elsewhere, such as in one of the links L of the linkage assembly 88, or in the base member 86. The motor module may include a gear mechanism or transmission system. As known in the art, the motor module and gear mechanism may be coupled to the linkage assembly 88 to laterally move the cage plate 93 and thereby switch the chain C between the rear sprockets (e.g., G1-G8) on the rear sprocket assembly 78.

[0091] The cage plate 93 also has a distal end that carries a tensioner tooth or wheel. This wheel also has teeth around a circumference. The cage plate 93 is biased in a chain tensioning direction to maintain tension in the chain C. The chain guide assembly 92 may also include a second tooth or wheel, such as a guide wheel, positioned closer to the proximal end of the cage plate 93 and the movable member 90. In operation, the chain C is arranged around one of the rear sprockets (e.g., G1-G8). An upper section of the chain C extends forward to the front sprocket assembly 72 and is arranged around that sprocket F. A lower section of the chain C returns from the front sprocket assembly 72 to the tensioner wheel and then extends forward to the guide wheel. The guide wheel guides the chain C to the rear sprockets (e.g., G1-G8). The lateral movement of the cage plate 93, the tensioner wheel, and the guide wheel can determine the lateral position of the chain C for alignment with one of the selected rear sprockets (e.g., G1-G8).

[0092] Bicycle 50 may include one or more bicycle control devices 96 (e.g., a single bicycle control unit) mounted to handlebars 68. These one or more bicycle control devices may include one or more types of bicycle control and / or actuation systems. For example, the one or more bicycle control devices 96 may include a brake actuation system for controlling the front brake 60 and / or the rear brake 62, and / or a gear shifting system for controlling the drive chain 58. Other control systems may also be included. For example, in some embodiments, this system may be applied to a bicycle using only one front gear shifter or only one rear gear shifter. Furthermore, the one or more bicycle control devices may also include suspension, seatpost, and / or other control systems for bicycle 50.

[0093] The front wheel 54 and / or rear wheel 56 of the bicycle 50 may include a tire 120 attached to a radially outer tire engagement portion of a rim 122. A plurality of spokes 124 are directly attached to the rim 122. Alternatively, the spokes 124 may be attached and / or secured to the rim 122 by other structural components. The spokes 124 extend from the rim 122 and are attached to a center hub 126. The spokes 124 maintain tension between the rim 122 and the center hub 126 to provide operational rigidity for the individual wheels 54, 56 for the bicycle 50. The center hub 126 is configured as a rotatable attachment to the bicycle frame 52.

[0094] Figure 2 illustrates a rim 122 for a bicycle wheel, such as the front wheel 54 of Figure 1, which is removed from the rest of the bicycle 50, without an attached tire, and without spokes (e.g., spokes 124 of Figure 1) or a hub (e.g., a center hub 126 of Figure 1). The rim 122 includes a tire-connecting portion 130 for engaging with the tire 120, as shown in Figure 1. The tire-connecting portion 130 is assembled radially outward from a spoke receiving surface 132, which is positioned along an inner circumference 134 of the rim 122. In other words, the tire-connecting portion 130 is a radially outward tire-connecting portion. In one embodiment, the tire-connecting portion 130 is positioned along an outer circumference 135 of the rim 122. The tire-connecting portion 130 is assembled for attachment to the tire using a clincher tire attachment configuration, including a bead interlock attachment. Other configurations of the tire engagement portion 130 may also be provided to allow the use of other types of tires on the rim 122. For example, tubeless tires, including those with interlocking bead attachments, may be used.

[0095] The rim 122 provides a structure for attaching spokes to the rim 122 at a receiving portion of the rim 122, which is adjacent to the spoke receiving surface 132. Thus, the spoke receiving surface 132 is a portion of a spoke engagement portion 136 (e.g., a radially inward portion) of the rim 122. In one embodiment, the spoke engagement portion 136 of the rim 122 is disposed along the inner circumference 134 of the rim 122. In another embodiment, the spoke receiving surface 132 and the spoke engagement portion 136 may be separate components and / or portions of the rim 122. For example, spokes may pass through the spoke receiving surface 132, and the structure for attaching to the rim 122 may be configured to approximate a tire engagement portion 130.

[0096] The rim 122 includes a first sidewall 138 and a second sidewall 206 extending between the tire-connecting portion 130 and the spoke-connecting portion 136. For example, the first sidewall 138 and the second sidewall 206 extend radially outward from the spoke-connecting portion 136 to the tire-connecting portion 130. The first sidewall 138 is spaced apart from the second sidewall 206. The rim 122 may be hollow, for example, between the first sidewall 138, the second sidewall 206, the tire-connecting portion 130, and the spoke-connecting portion 136.

[0097] At least a portion of the rim 122 (e.g., the first sidewall 138 and the second sidewall 206) is formed of one or more composite materials. In one embodiment, the entire rim 122 is formed of one or more composite materials. In one example, fiber-reinforced plastic forms a one-piece monocoque rim consisting of a layered assembly of sheets, including a tire-connecting portion 130, a first sidewall 138, a second sidewall 206, and a spoke-connecting portion 136. Other configurations may also be provided. For example, a combination of plastic and carbon fiber reinforced plastic forms a one-piece monocoque rim consisting of a plastic layer and a carbon fiber layer, including a tire-connecting portion 130, a first sidewall 138, a second sidewall 206, and a spoke-connecting portion 136. Other configurations may also be provided.

[0098] The wheel rim 122 may, for example, be at least partially formed of a laminate comprising one or more compressed layers of one or more materials. Various materials may be included within the laminate, including, for example, a thermoplastic material and / or a thermoplastic material having a reinforcing fiber material (e.g., a sheet pre-formed from a bendable fabric). The reinforcing fiber material may be various reinforcing materials, including, for example, nylon. More, fewer, and / or different materials may be included within the laminate. For example, the reinforcing fiber material may be a natural fiber, such as, for example, flax.

[0099] The front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 may include rims 122 that can be assembled for use with any size wheel. In one embodiment, the rims 122 are assembled for use with a wheel that conforms to a 700C (e.g., a 622 mm diameter clamp and / or ISCO 622 mm) bicycle wheel standard.

[0100] The front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 can rotate about the central hub 126 in either direction. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 can be configured to rotate about the central hub 126 in a specific direction of rotation. In another example, the front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 can be configured to rotate in the opposite direction to that specific direction of rotation.

[0101] In one embodiment, the first sidewall 138, second sidewall 206, spoke joint portion 136, and tire joint portion 130 of the front wheel 54 and / or rear wheel 56 of the bicycle 50 (e.g., the front wheel 54 and rear wheel 56 in the example of FIG. 1) are at least partially formed of one or more layers (e.g., composite material layers) of one or more composite materials. Each of the one or more layers may include one or more individual composite material fabric layers (e.g., sheets). Different layers of different composite materials may each include different numbers of composite material layers or sheets. At least some composite material layers may be of different shapes and / or sizes. Alternatively, all composite material layers may be of the same shape and / or size.

[0102] In one embodiment, at least some composite material sheets are formed into strips. For example, one or more composite material strips may form the first sidewall 138 and the second sidewall 206 of the front wheel 54. One or more composite material strips may be arranged around the center hub 126 of the front wheel 54 and the center hub 126 of the rear wheel 56, respectively, to form the first sidewall 138 and the second sidewall 206 of the front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56, respectively.

[0103] In one manufacturing process, the plywood of the front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 are respectively integrated with the spoke joint portion 136 and the tire joint portion 130 of the individual wheels 54 and 56 (e.g., forming composite material plywood of the spoke joint portion 136 and the tire joint portion 130) by, for example, a curing process, to form a one-piece monocoque wheel rim 122. The wheel rims 122 of the front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 can be formed by other manufacturing processes.

[0104] Figure 2 illustrates a valve 140 (e.g., an air valve) on the rim 122, which extends through the spoke joint portion 136 (e.g., radially inward portion) and away from the tire joint portion 130 of the rim 122. The valve 140 can be of various types for inflating and / or deflating a tire (e.g., tire 120), including, for example, a Schrader valve, a Presta valve, or a Woods valve.

[0105] The radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 includes an opening 144 that extends through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 at a first position 146 (e.g., a first circumferential position 146) along the inner circumference 134. A valve 140 extends through the opening 144, away from the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122, and the tire-connecting portion 130. The opening 144 can be of various sizes and / or shapes. For example, the opening 144 can be circular and sized such that an outer surface of the valve 140 abuts against a surface forming the radially inner portion 136 of the opening 144. In one embodiment, the opening 144 has a diameter of approximately 7 mm. In other embodiments, the diameter of the opening 144 is larger or smaller.

[0106] Figure 2 also illustrates a sensor device 150 mounted within the rim 122. The sensor device 150 can be configured to measure and / or determine data useful to, for example, a rider of the bicycle 50, and transmit this data to, for example, a computing device for display to the rider (e.g., a computing device of the bicycle 50 or a mobile computing device remote from the bicycle 50). For example, the sensor device 150 can transmit the data to a bicycle control unit 96 for display to the rider and / or further processing. The sensor device 150 may include various electronic components and can measure and / or determine various types of data associated with, for example, the rim 122 and / or the bicycle 50. For example, the sensor device 150 can measure and / or determine, for example, tire pressure data, wheel speed data, odometer data, data related to rim health, wheel tilt and yaw data, product data, road feedback data, LED status indicators, one or more other types of data, or any combination thereof.

[0107] The radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 includes a socket 152 (e.g., a cavity) located within the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 at a second position 154 (e.g., a second circumferential position 154) along the inner circumference 134. A sensor device 150 may be disposed within the socket 152 and attached to the rim 122 such that a portion of the sensor device 150 forms part of the radially inner portion 136 (e.g., the inner circumference 134) of the rim 122. For example, the socket 152 may enclose the sensor device 150 to improve aerodynamic performance and aesthetics compared to prior art sensors mounted at a valve.

[0108] The socket 152 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. For example, the socket 152 can be large enough to accommodate a sensor device 150, including one or more sensors, one or more battery packs, a processor, a memory, other electronic devices, or any combination thereof, but small enough to fit within an area between two adjacent spokes (e.g., approximately 150 mm) of a wheel using rim 122. In one embodiment, one length (e.g., an arc length) of the socket 152 is less than or equal to 70 mm. However, in other embodiments, a larger socket 152 may be provided.

[0109] The second circumferential position 154 of the socket 152 along the inner circumference 134 is different from the first circumferential position 146 of the opening 144 extending through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 along the inner circumference 134. In other words, the sensor device 150 is located at a distance away from the valve 140 (e.g., at the far end relative to the valve).

[0110] In one embodiment, a second circumferential position 154 along the inner circumference 134 is relative to a first circumferential position 146 along the inner circumference 134. In other words, in this embodiment, the sensor device 150 is relative to the valve 140 (e.g., on the opposite side of the inner circumference 134 of the rim 122). By positioning the sensor device 150 opposite the valve 140, a wheel (e.g., wheel 54 or 56) mounted on the rim 122 can be rebalanced for optimal performance: any weight added by the sensor device 150 at the second circumferential position 154 (e.g., relative to a rim without a sensor device 150) can be compensated for (e.g., balanced) at the valve 140. This ability to balance the weight on the opposite side of the inner circumference 134 of the rim 122 allows the sensor device 150 to include a larger battery pack and perform more functions for a given battery pack life. This also allows the valve 140 to be selected for optimal air-fill characteristics. Separating valve 140 from the sensor helps reduce the sensor's exposure to sealant, which could block the sensor.

[0111] The socket 152 can be assembled in various ways to ensure a secure attachment of the sensor device 150 to the rim 122, with the sensor device 150 flush with the radially inward portion 136 of the rim 122. For example, the rim 122 may be structurally reinforced around the socket 152 (e.g., a thicker composite laminate around the socket 152). The rim 122 may be structurally reinforced around the socket 152 using the same material as that used to make the rim 122 (e.g., a composite material) or one or more other materials. As another example, the socket 152 may have an interface (e.g., a corresponding flange) complementary to the sensor device 150 (e.g., a housing of the sensor device 150) to allow for a secure attachment of the sensor device 150 to the rim 122 at the socket 152.

[0112] One of the sensors in the sensor device 150 (e.g., a pressure sensor) has a sensor port (e.g., a pressure sensor port) exposed at a distal end of the sensor device 150 (e.g., at a distance relative to the sensor device) on a portion of the rim. For example, the pressure sensor port of the pressure sensor is fluidly connected to a tire bed at the tire-connection portion 130 of the rim 122, so that the pressure sensor can measure a tire pressure when the tire 120 is mounted on the rim 122. In other words, the pressure sensor port is blinded, which reduces the possibility of sealant obstruction of the sensor port. The pressure sensor port of the pressure sensor can be fluidly connected to the tire bed at the tire-connection portion 130 of the rim 122 in various ways, for example. The configuration of this fluid connection can depend on how the sensor device 150 is attached to the rim 122. The embodiments discussed below illustrate different attachment structures and / or different fluid connection structures for the rim 122.

[0113] Figure 3-14 illustrates a sensor device 200 according to one of the first embodiments, which can be attached (e.g., mounted) to a rim 122 and is fluidly connected to a volume defined, for example, by the tire connection portion 130 of the rim 122.

[0114] Referring to Figure 3, the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 includes a first tire holding portion 202 and a second tire holding portion 204 spaced apart from the first tire holding portion 202. The first tire holding portion 202 extends from a first sidewall 138, and the second tire holding portion 204 extends from a second sidewall 206. The first sidewall 138 and the second sidewall 206 extend radially inward from the radially outer tire engagement portion 130.

[0115] The first tire holding portion 202 includes a first tire holding wall 208. In one embodiment, the first tire holding portion 202 also includes a first protrusion (e.g., a first tire holding feature) (not shown). The first protrusion may extend away from the first tire holding wall 208. The first protrusion may be of various shapes, including, for example, a shape having a rectangular cross-section with a semi-circular cap. The first protrusion may extend circumferentially around the rim 122.

[0116] The second tire holding portion 204 includes a second tire holding wall 210. The second tire holding wall 210 is opposite to and spaced apart from the first tire holding wall 208. In one embodiment, the second tire holding portion 204 also includes a second protrusion (e.g., a second tire holding feature) (not shown). The second protrusion may extend toward the first tire holding portion 202 away from the second tire holding wall 210. The second protrusion may be of various shapes, including, for example, a shape having a rectangular cross-section and a semi-circular cap. The second protrusion may extend circumferentially around the rim 122. The first and second protrusions may be of other shapes.

[0117] The rim 122 can accommodate a tire 120 (see Figure 1), i.e., a tubeless caliper tire, for example. The tire 120 includes a bead that interacts with radially outer tire engagement portions 130 of the rim 122 (e.g., a first tire holding portion 202 and a second tire holding portion 204) to attach and retain the tire 120 to and on the rim 122. The bead may include various materials, such as carbon, a steel wire, or amide (e.g., Kevlar™) fibers, within the bead to prevent the tire 120 from detaching from the rim 122. Due to reinforcement with, for example, carbon, steel wire, or Kevlar™ fibers, the bead resists stretching from internal air pressure. Alternatively, the bead may be made of the same material as the tire 120 (e.g., rubber).

[0118] The radially outer tire engagement portion 130 also includes a well 212 positioned between the first tire holding portion 202 and the second tire holding portion 204 of the rim 122. The well 212 provides a volume into which the tire bead of the tire 120 can be placed when the tire 120 is attached to the rim 122. When the tire 120 is inflated, the tire beads of the tire 120 move away from each other until they interact with the first tire holding portion 202 and the second tire holding portion 204, respectively. During inflation, the tire beads of the tire 120 abut against the first tire holding wall 208 and the second tire holding wall 210, respectively. In one embodiment, the first tire-holding profile and the second tire-holding profile system, for example, keep the tire bead of the tire 120 within the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 (e.g., keep the tire bead of the tire 120 engaged with the first tire-holding wall 208 and the second tire-holding wall 210), and thus prevent the tire 120 from leaking air from the rim 122. The contact between the tire bead and the first tire-holding wall 208 and the second tire-holding wall 210 is respectively formed as a seal between the inflated tire 120 and the rim 122.

[0119] The radially outer tire engagement portion 130 may also include ridges (e.g., bead protrusions; a first bead protrusion and a second bead protrusion), which are respectively located on opposite sides of the well 212. A first shelf 214 (e.g., a first bead shelf) extends away from the first tire holding wall 208 (e.g., between the first tire holding wall 208 and the first bead protrusion), and a second shelf 216 (e.g., a second bead shelf) extends away from the second tire holding wall 210 (e.g., between the second tire holding wall 210 and the second bead protrusion). In one embodiment, curved transition regions 218 extend between the first shelf 214 and the first tire holding wall 208 and between the second shelf 216 and the second tire holding wall 210, respectively. The bead protrusions may be respectively positioned on opposite sides of the well 212 and may be raised relative to the first shelf 214 and the second shelf 216, respectively. If tire 120 loses pressure, the bead protrusion can help hold the tire 120 onto the rim 122.

[0120] As shown in Figure 3, the rim 122 is hollow, and the shape of a volume 220 within the rim 122 can be defined by a first sidewall 138, a second sidewall 206, a radially outer tire connection portion 130 (e.g., well 212, first shelf 214, and second shelf 216), and a radially inner portion 136. The volume 220 can be of various sizes and / or shapes. When the sensor device 200 is mounted (e.g., attached to) the rim 122, at least a portion of the sensor device 200 is located within the volume 220.

[0121] Referring to Figure 7, the sensor device 200 includes a housing 222 and a battery housing 224. A socket 152 at the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 is formed by an opening 226 through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 and a flange 228 extending around the opening 226. The housing 222 of the sensor device 200 includes a cover 230 having a flange 232 corresponding to (e.g., sized and shaped to interface with) the flange 228 of the socket 152, such that when the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 is mounted on the rim 122, the cover 230 of the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 is flush with the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122.

[0122] The housing 222 of the sensor device 200 supports various components of the sensor device 200 (e.g., electronic components). For example, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 supports a battery pack housing 224. Referring to Figure 3, the housing 222 also supports a printed circuit board (PCB) 234 on which various electronic components can be mounted and electrically connected. As will be discussed in more detail below, referring to Figure 3, the PCB 234 may support and electrically connect one or more processors (e.g., a microcontroller) 235a, a light-emitting diode (LED) 235b, one or more antennas (e.g., a radio frequency device) 235c, one or more sensors 235d (e.g., a pressure sensor, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, and / or a resistance measurement interface), one or more power supplies 235e, a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader 235f (e.g., a near field communication (NFC) reader or module), one or more other electronic components, or any combination thereof. The PCB 234 can support and electrically connect more, fewer and / or different components of the sensor device 200.

[0123] The housing 222 of the sensor device 200 may support the PCB 234 in various ways, for example. For example, the PCB 234 may be attached to the housing 222 in various ways, including by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws or nuts / bolts), welding, adhesive, lugs, flanges, other means, or any combination thereof.

[0124] The housing 222 of the sensor device 200 can be made of various materials. For example, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 can be made of the same material as the rim 122 (e.g., a composite material). In another example, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 can be made of two or more materials. For example, the cover 230 of the housing 222 can be made of the same material as the rim 122 (e.g., a composite material), and the remainder of the housing 222 can be made of another material (e.g., a plastic). In yet another example, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 can be made of a material different from the rim (e.g., a composite material) (e.g., a plastic).

[0125] The housing 222 of the sensor device 200 can be of various sizes and / or shapes. The size and / or shape of the housing 222 can be defined by the following: the size and shape of the volume 220 within the rim 122, the spoke spacing of the wheel on which the rim 122 is mounted, and / or the number and size of the components supported within the housing 222. For example, the size of a power source (e.g., a coin cell battery pack) supported within the housing 222 can define a minimum size of the housing 222 of the sensor device 200.

[0126] The battery pack housing 224 can be assembled in various ways, and the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 can support the battery pack housing 224 in various ways. For example, referring to Figures 7-13, the battery pack housing 224 can be a tray that can be inserted into a corresponding opening 236 in the housing 222. For example, the opening 236 can extend through the cover 230 of the housing 222 and into the housing 222.

[0127] Referring to Figures 7, 11, and 12, tray 224 supports, for example, a battery pack 238 (e.g., a coin cell battery pack). Tray 224 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. Tray 224 may be smaller than the housing 222 of sensor device 200 and may be, for example, rectangular in shape. Tray 224 may be sized and / or shaped such that the battery pack 238 fits within tray 224. For example, the size of the battery pack 238 (e.g., a coin cell battery pack) supported within tray 224 defines a minimum size of tray 224. Other configurations are available.

[0128] The tray 224 can be made of various materials. For example, the tray 224 may be made of the same material (e.g., a composite material) as the rim 122 and / or the housing 222 of the sensor device 200. In another example, the tray 224 may be made of two or more materials. For example, a first portion of the tray 224 may be made of the same material (e.g., a composite material) as the rim 122, and the remaining portion of the tray 224 may be made of another material (e.g., a plastic). In yet another example, the tray 224 may be made of a material (e.g., a plastic) different from that of the rim (e.g., a composite material) and / or the housing 222 of the sensor device 200.

[0129] Referring to Figures 10-12, tray 224 may include, for example, a locking mechanism 240 that attaches (e.g., locks) tray 224 to the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 when tray 224 is inserted into the opening 236 of the cover 230 of housing 222. In one embodiment, locking mechanism 240 is a spring-loaded latching mechanism (e.g., a stop latching mechanism). In other embodiments, other locking mechanisms may be used.

[0130] In one example, locking mechanism 240 is used to lock and unlock tray 224 within housing 222. Locking mechanism 240 includes components that can move and / or rotate relative to housing 222 of sensor device 200 when tray 224 translates into and out of the opening. Locking mechanism 240 consists of a stop or protrusion 241 on housing 222, a recess 243 on battery tray 224, a latch 245, and an ejection mechanism 246. Stop or protrusion 241 extends away from the surface of housing 222. Recess 243 may be an interference depression tang on tray 224. Latch 245 may be a rotating ejection lever. Ejection mechanism 246 may be an actuating pin. When the battery tray 224 is fully inserted into the housing 222, the protrusion 241 from the housing 222 fits into the notch or recess 243 on the battery tray 224, thereby holding the battery tray 224 in place. During the insertion of the battery tray 224 into the housing 222, the latch or ejector lever 245 is rotated by the battery tray 224. This rotation of the ejector lever 245 also pushes the ejector mechanism or pin 246 toward the opening 252. Figure 11 shows the locking mechanism 240 in a locked configuration.

[0131] To unlock the locking mechanism 240 and remove the battery tray 224, a pin 246 can be actuated using a tool inserted through the opening 252 of the battery tray 224. When the pin 246 is pressed down by the tool through the opening 252, the pin 246 rotates the ejector lever 245. This rotation of the ejector lever 245 generates a force on the battery tray 224. The force on the battery tray 224 pushes the battery tray 224 out of the housing 222.

[0132] The sensor device 200 includes electrical terminals that contact a battery pack 238 within the tray 224 when the tray 224 is moved to a locked position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11). These electrical terminals can also be electrically connected to the electronic components of the sensor device 200 such that the battery pack 238 powers the electronic components of the sensor device 200 when the tray 224 is in the locked position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11). For example, these electrical terminals can be electrically connected to a PCB 234 such that the battery pack 238 powers any electrical components electrically connected to the PCB 234. In one embodiment, when the tray 224 is in the locked position, the battery pack 238 powers a pressure sensor 244 of the sensor device 200.

[0133] The housing 222 of the sensor device 200 houses an ejection mechanism that can be actuated by a user to unlock the tray 224 and move the tray 224 relative to the housing 222. In one embodiment, when the tray 224 is in the locked position, the ejection mechanism is a retaining pin 246 that contacts the ejection lever 245 of the locking mechanism 240. The ejection mechanism may not be actuable without tools. For example, when the tray 224 is in the locked position, the entire ejection pin 246 may be housed within the housing 222 of the sensor device 200.

[0134] Figure 12 shows a tray 224 in an unlocked position relative to one of the housings 222 of the sensor device 200, wherein the tray 224 is movable (e.g., translated) relative to the housing 222. As shown in Figure 12, the ejector pin 246 is in a retracted position (e.g., actuated by a tool) and in contact with the ejector lever 245. The movement of the ejector pin 246 into the retracted position (e.g., toward the inner surface 242 of the housing 222 of the sensor device 200), combined with the contact between the ejector pin 246 and the ejector lever 245, causes the ejector lever 245 to rotate (e.g., clockwise) relative to the housing 222 of the sensor device 200. The ejector lever 245 is shaped (e.g., V-shaped) such that rotation of the ejector lever 245 relative to the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 (e.g., clockwise) causes a portion 249 of the ejector lever 245 to contact the tray 224 and / or the battery pack 238, and pushes the locking portion 241 of the housing 222 out of the recess 243 within the tray 224. The tray 224 is then in an unlocked position relative to the housing 222 of the sensor device 200, and the tray 224 is free to move (e.g., translate) relative to the housing 222.

[0135] Referring to Figures 5, 7, and 11, tray 224 may include a cover 248 that forms a portion of the radially inward portion 136 of rim 122 when the tray 224 is mounted in the housing 222 of sensor device 200 (e.g., in the locked position, as shown in Figure 11). At least one dimension (e.g., a length) of cover 248 may be larger than the same dimension of tray 224 to form a lug 250. Lug 250 may include an opening 252a (e.g., a through hole) through which tray 224 is in the locked position. When tray 224 is in the locked position, the opening 252a through lug 250 may align with ejector pin 246. A user may insert a tool through opening 252a to interact with ejector pin 246 (e.g., press) and unlock tray 224, allowing tray 224 to move (e.g., translate) and / or be removed relative to housing 222 of sensor device 200.

[0136] In the orientation shown in Figure 11, when the ejector pin 246 is pressed by a tool, the locking mechanism 240 rotates clockwise, and due to the contact between the locking mechanism 240 and the inner surface 242 of the housing 222, the tray 224 is pushed out of the locked position. For example, this movement pushes the stop portion 241 of the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 out of the recess 243 of the tray 224.

[0137] The tray 224 can also function as a watertight sealing mechanism for the sensor device 200. Referring to Figures 9 and 11, the tray 224 may include one or more seals 254 (e.g., a single seal 254) to prevent moisture intrusion when the tray 224 is mounted within the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 and in the locked position. The seal 254 may be of various types, including, for example, a gasket or an O-ring, which assemble to create a watertight seal when the tray 224 is mounted within the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 and in the locked position.

[0138] The seal 254 can be located at various positions on the tray 224. For example, as shown in the examples of Figures 9 and 11, the seal 254 can be located at or near the cover 248 of the tray 224. In other embodiments, the seal 254 and / or other seals are positioned elsewhere to provide a watertight seal. For example, in one embodiment, the tray 224 does not include a seal, but the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 includes a seal (e.g., a gasket) located at or near and around an opening 236 in the cover 230 of the housing 222. In one embodiment, the ejector mechanism or pin 246 also includes a seal, such as an O-ring or a gasket.

[0139] In other embodiments, tray 224 is attached (e.g., locked) to housing 222 of sensor device 200 in other ways. For example, referring to FIG14, instead of using locking mechanism 240 to attach tray 224 to housing 222 of sensor device 200, an opening 252b of lug 250 of tray 224 may be larger (e.g., having a larger diameter), and housing 222 may have a threaded opening that aligns with the opening 252b of lug 250 when tray 224 is mounted in housing 222. Tray 224 may be attached (e.g., locked) to housing 222 of sensor device 200 by a fastener 256 (e.g., a screw or bolt) via opening 252b of lug 250 of tray 224 and threaded opening in housing 222.

[0140] The tray 224, for example, facilitates the installation and removal of the battery pack 238 from the sensor device 200 at the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. Electronic devices attached to the outer surface of a wheel (e.g., wheel 54 or 56) of a bicycle (e.g., bicycle 50) are, for example, easily accessible for removing and replacing the battery pack. However, electronic devices installed within the body of the bicycle are more difficult to access for battery pack installation and removal. Integrating the tray 224 with an outer surface of the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 accessible at the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 (e.g., the cover 230 of the housing 222) avoids the need to detach the sensor device 200 from the rim 122 when installing or removing the battery pack. This integration also avoids the cumbersome and time-consuming procedure of depressurizing and / or removing a tire (e.g., tire 120) mounted on the rim 122 to access the battery pack.

[0141] Referring to Figures 3, 6, 7, and 10-14, sensor device 200 (e.g., housing 222 of sensor device 200) can be attached (e.g., mounted or anchored) to rim 122 using a fastener 260. Sensor device 200 can be attached, for example, to radially outer tire coupling portion 130 using fastener 260. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3, 6, 7, and 10-14, sensor device 200 can be attached to radially outer tire coupling portion 130 at well 212 using fastener 260.

[0142] Referring to Figure 11, the radial outer tire connection portion 130 includes an opening 262 extending through the radial outer tire connection portion 130. The opening 262 is, for example, within a well 212 of the radial outer tire connection portion 130. In one embodiment, the rim 122 has a reinforcing portion 264 surrounding the opening 262. Compared to other portions of the rim 122, the reinforcing portion 264 surrounding the opening 262 through the rim 122 is, for example, a thicker composite laminate.

[0143] Fastener 260 has a head 266 and threads 268. Fastener 260 extends through an opening 262 through the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 such that the head 266 of fastener 260 contacts (e.g., abuts) a reinforcing portion 264 around the opening 262 through the radially outer tire engagement portion 130, and the threads 268 engage the housing 222 of sensor device 200. The housing 222 of sensor device 200 may include a threaded opening 269, and sensor device 200 may be attached to rim 122 via a threaded connection structure between the threads 268 of fastener 260 and the threaded opening 269.

[0144] When the fastener 260 is screwed into the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 via the threaded connection structure, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 is pulled toward the radially outer tire engagement portion 130, and the flange 232 of the cover 230 of the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 is pulled to contact the flange 228 of the socket 152 inside the rim 122. The fastener 260 can be tightened into the threaded opening 269 inside the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 to tighten the cover 230 of the housing 222 against the rim 122. In one embodiment, when the flange 232 of the cover 230 is in contact with the flange 228 of the socket 152, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 is at a distance relative to (e.g., away from) the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122. In other words, when the sensor device 200 is attached to the radial outer tire engagement portion 130 of the wheel rim 122 via the fastener 260, the housing 222 of the sensor device 200 is not in contact with the radial outer tire engagement portion 130 of the wheel rim 122.

[0145] In the embodiment shown in Figures 3-14, the fastener 260 is a bolt with a port. Referring to Figures 11-13, the bolt with a port 260 includes, for example, a passage 270 along one length of the bolt with a port 260. When the bolt with a port 260 is, for example, screwed into a threaded opening 269 within the housing 222 of the sensor device 200, the passage 270 of the bolt with a port 272 of the pressure sensor 244 of the sensor device 200 is fluidly connected to a volume 274 (e.g., a tire cavity) between the first tire holding portion 202 and the second tire holding portion 204 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122. The pressure sensor 244 is thus configured to measure a pressure (e.g., a tire pressure) of a fluid (e.g., air) within the volume 274 via the passage 270 that fluidly connects the volume 274 to the pressure sensor 244.

[0146] The ported bolt 260 includes one or more seals 276 (e.g., O-rings or gaskets) assembled to provide an airtight seal along a path between a volume 274 (e.g., a tire cavity) and a sensor device 200. For example, the ported bolt 260 includes: a first seal 276a disposed around the head 266 of the ported bolt 260, adjacent to the head 266 of the ported bolt 260; and a second seal 276b disposed around the thread 268 of the ported bolt 260, adjacent to the thread 268 of the ported bolt 260. The ported bolt 260 may include more, fewer, and / or different seals, and / or the first seal 276a and / or the second seal 276b may be respectively located at different positions along the ported bolt 260. In an alternative embodiment, the second seal 276b may be located on the housing, near and / or in contact with the ported bolt 260.

[0147] The bolt 260 with a port can be made of various materials. For example, the bolt 260 with a port can be made of a metal, such as alloy steel, but it can also be made of other materials. The bolt 260 with a port can be of various shapes and sizes. For example, the length of the bolt 260 with a port can be fixed such that when the sensor device 200 is attached to the radial outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122 via the bolt 260 with a port, the housing 222 of the sensor device is not in contact with the radial outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122. In another example, the diameter of one shaft of the bolt 260 with a port can be minimized while still allowing fluid communication between the port 272 of the pressure sensor 244 of the sensor device 200 and the volume 274, so that the corresponding opening 262 through the radial outer tire engagement portion 130 is also minimized.

[0148] Referring to Figure 11, the bolt 260 with a port forms a blind pressure tap, which exposes the port 272 of the pressure sensor 244 to the atmosphere (e.g., a pressurized tire cavity) within the volume 274 between the first tire holding portion 202 and the second tire holding portion 204 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122. This blind exposure to the pressurized tire cavity 274 helps, for example, prevent sealant contained within a tire attached to the rim 122 or sealant added through a valve from being transmitted, for example, to the sensor device 200 (e.g., the pressure sensor 244 of the sensor device). This prevents blockage of the pressure sensor 244, for example, minimizing inaccurate measurements by the pressure sensor 244.

[0149] In one embodiment, the air passage to the pressure sensor may include a material. For example, passage 270 may be (completely or partially) filled with material. In an alternative example, passage 270 and port 272 may be (completely or partially) filled with material. In this example, the material may be a low-hardness material that can effectively transmit pressure. The material may be rubber, silicone, and / or any easily compressible material. Prefilling the passage allows air in the bed to be pushed onto the soft material, which then transfers the material to sensor 244. The prefilled material will not leak or fall out of the passage and will help reduce the risk of the passage being blocked by sealant.

[0150] A sensor device may be attached to the rim 122, and / or a sensor device (e.g., a pressure sensor) may be fluidly connected to the tire cavity 274 in various other ways. For example, referring to FIG15, a fluid connection between a sensor device 600 and the tire cavity 274 and the attachment of the sensor device 600 to the rim 122 may be separate. In other words, a bolt 282 with a port may not be necessary for both attaching the sensor device 600 to the rim 122 and fluidly connecting the sensor device 600 to the tire cavity 274.

[0151] The embodiment illustrated in Figure 15 is similar to the second embodiment described below and shares many of the same elements. Most elements are not illustrated in conjunction with Figure 15 if they are the same as or similar to those seen in the second embodiment below. The features and elements described in the first and second embodiments may be interchanged or combined with the features in Figure 15.

[0152] As seen in the embodiment of Figure 15, the sensor device 600 includes a cover 604 and a housing 602. The cover 604 includes a display. In this example, the display may be an LED 606.

[0153] For example, a bolt 282 with a port may extend through an opening 284 in the radially outer tire connection portion 130 of the rim 122 to expose a pressure sensor in the pressure sensor cavity or port 610 of the sensor device 600 to a pressure (e.g., tire pressure) in the tire cavity 274, but without attaching the sensor device 600 to the rim 122. This bolt 282 with a port may be attached to the rim 122 at the radially outer tire connection portion 130 using, for example, the thread 288 of the bolt 282 and a rivet nut 290 mounted in the opening 284 in the radially outer tire connection portion 130 of the rim 122. The ported bolt 282 can be tightened against the rivet nut 290, and a seal 292 (e.g., a gasket) can be disposed between one head 294 of the ported bolt 282 and one surface 296 of the radial outer tire engagement portion 130 (e.g., within the well 212 of the radial outer tire engagement portion 130). In this example, the pressure sensor cavity 610 is a volume for accommodating a pressure sensor. In this example, the pressure sensor cavity 610 is fluidly connected to the flexible tube 299. In one example, the pressure sensor cavity 610 is fluidly connected to the tire cavity 274 via the flexible tube 299 and the ported bolt 282. In one example, the pressure sensor cavity 610 is similar to the port 272 described below.

[0154] The ported bolt 282 may include a fluid passage 297 within the ported bolt 282 and along its length. Each of the ported bolt 282 and the sensor device 600 may include a retaining member 298, such as a flexible tube 299 (e.g., a flexible hose) connected to the retaining member. The retaining member 298 may be of various types, used to provide a leak-proof seal for the flexible tube. For example, the retaining member 298 may include barbs, crimp fittings, Luer locks, quick-release couplings, other retaining devices, or any combination thereof.

[0155] The sensor device 600 (e.g., a pressure sensor) can be fluidly connected to the tire cavity 274, for example, via a ported bolt 282, a fixing member 298, and a flexible tube 299. By using the flexible tube 299, the sensor device 600 can be placed arbitrarily on or inside the rim 122 and can be repositioned while maintaining a pressure within the tire cavity 274. This allows, for example, a battery pack of the sensor device 600 to be replaced without depressurizing the tire and disconnecting the sensor device 600.

[0156] In another alternative embodiment, a sensing device may use a tube inside the tire to act on the fluid and / or sense the pressure inside the tire.

[0157] A second embodiment of a sensor device 300 utilizes the aforementioned fixing member and, for example, the flexible tube, and is attached to the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122, rather than the radially outer tire-connecting portion 130 of the rim 122 (e.g., as in the sensor device 200 of the first embodiment). Figures 16-23 illustrate a sensor device 300 according to a second embodiment, which can be attached (e.g., mounted) to the rim 122 and is fluidly connected to a volume (e.g., a tire cavity) defined, for example, by the tire-connecting portion 130 of the rim 122.

[0158] The sensor device 300 operates using a flip-type toggle bolt and / or a similar flip-type toggle bolt to allow a wider object (e.g., the sensor device 300) to be mounted through a narrower opening. This attachment mechanism allows the use of a smaller socket 152 through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. Since openings (e.g., holes) through a structure can reduce structural integrity, attaching a sensor device (e.g., the sensor device 300) to the rim 122 using a smaller socket 152 through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 (e.g., compared to the first embodiment shown in Figures 3-14) minimizes reinforcement around the socket 152. For example, the composite stack around the socket 152 of the second embodiment shown in Figures 16-23 can be thinner than the composite stack around the socket 152 of the first embodiment shown in Figures 3-14.

[0159] The sensor device 300 includes a housing 302 and a cover 304 (e.g., an outer panel or a peripheral panel), the cover 304 being physically connected to the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 by a fastening member 306. The housing 302 supports one or more electronic components (e.g., one or more processors, a pressure sensor, a power source such as a coin cell battery pack, a memory), which communicate with each other (e.g., via a PCB supported by the housing). The housing 302 can be made of various materials, including, for example, plastic or a composite material. The housing 302 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. For example, at least one dimension (e.g., a length) of the housing 302 may be larger than at least one dimension (e.g., a length) of the cover 304.

[0160] In one embodiment, the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 is shaped to interface with an inner surface 308 of the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. In other words, a portion of the housing 302 is sized and / or shaped to match the size and / or shape of the inner surface 308 of the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. For example, referring to Figures 16 and 20, the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 has at least one outer surface 310 (e.g., an outer surface 310) which is shaped (e.g., parabolic) to match the shape (e.g., parabolic) of the inner surface 308 of the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. When the sensor device 300 is attached to the wheel rim 122 (for example, the cover 304 and housing 302 of the sensor device 300 are pulled together so that the sensor device 300 is clamped to the wheel rim 122), the outer surface 310 of the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 can serve as a pressure bearing surface.

[0161] When the sensor device 300 is attached to the rim 122, the cover 304 forms a portion of the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. The cover 304 can be of various shapes and sizes. For example, the cover 304 can be sized and shaped to match the size and shape of the socket 152 passing through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122. Other shapes and / or sizes may also be provided.

[0162] The cover 304 of the sensor device 300 can be made of various materials. For example, the cover 304 of the sensor device 300 can be made of the same material as the rim 122 (e.g., a composite material). In another example, the cover 304 of the sensor device 300 is made of a material different from the rim 122 (e.g., a composite material) (e.g., a plastic).

[0163] In one embodiment, the fixing member 306 is a bolt (e.g., part of a flip-up toggle bolt or similar in function; comprising a housing 300, a support 316, and the bolt 306). The bolt 306 may, for example, be confined within a cover 304 and may include a shaft 312 having threads 314. The cover 304 may pivot relative to the shaft 312. Other fixing members 306 may be provided.

[0164] Referring to Figures 19 and 22, the sensor device 300 may include a support 316 rotatably attached to the housing 302 of the sensor device 300. In one embodiment, the support 316 is a body (e.g., a cylindrically shaped body) confined within a channel 318 in the housing 302 of the sensor device 300. The channel 318 is defined by a wall 320 within the housing 302. The support 316 may include a threaded through-hole to which a cover 304 may be attached via a bolt 306. When the bolt 306 is attached to the support 316 via the threaded hole, for example, when the wall 320 of the channel 318 defines an angular rotation (e.g., 30 degrees), the support 316, the bolt 306, and the cover 304 may move relative to the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 by that angular rotation. With this configuration, the cover 304 and housing 302 of the sensor device 300 can pivot independently relative to the bolt 306 while maintaining a mechanical connection with, for example, the bolt 306. In other words, the cover 304 and housing 302 (e.g., the outer surface 310 of the housing 302) can pivot relative to each other while maintaining a mechanical connection to each other.

[0165] The independent pivotability of the cover 304 and housing 302 of the sensor device 300 relative to the bolt 306 allows a housing 302 of a sensor device 300 larger than the socket 152 to be positioned within and attached to the rim 122. For example, when the cover 304 is in an extended position relative to the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 (see Figures 16-19), the cover 304 can pivot relative to the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) (e.g., until the cover 304 contacts the housing 302 of the sensor device 300). A portion of the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 can then be positioned in the socket 152 and below the radially inward portion 136 of the rim 122. The housing 302 of the sensor device 300 can then be rotated relative to the cover 304 in a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) (e.g., where the cover 304 rotates relative to the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 in a second rotational direction such as counterclockwise). The cover 304 and housing 302 of the sensor device 300 can then be centered within the socket 152. Once centered, the cover 304 can contact the flange 228 of the socket 152 (see FIG. 17). When the cover 304 contacts the flange 228 of the socket 152 and / or the outer surface 310 of the housing 302 contacts the inner surface 308 of the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122, the cover 304 and / or housing 302 may be unable to rotate relative to the rim 122 due to friction. The bolt 306 can then be rotated relative to the cover 304 and / or the housing 302 of the sensor device 300, causing the outer surfaces 310 of the cover 304 and the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 to come together and clamp the rim 122. The bolt 306 can be tightened, and the sensor device 300 can be attached (e.g., mounted or anchored) to the rim 122 (see Figures 20-22).

[0166] In this configuration, the sensor device 300 can be removed from the rim 122 when a power source (e.g., a battery pack) for the sensor device is to be installed, removed, or replaced. In other words, the battery pack may not be accessible at the radially inward portion 136 of the rim 122 without removing the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 from the rim.

[0167] Referring to Figures 19 and 22, the sensor device 300 may also include a battery pack housing 322. The battery pack housing 322 may be integrated with the housing 302, and a battery pack disposed within the battery pack housing 322 may be held within the battery pack housing 322 by a battery pack cover 324. The battery pack cover 324 may be attached to the battery pack housing 322 in various ways to hold the battery pack within the battery pack housing 322. For example, the battery pack cover 324 may include one or more attachment features 326, such as, for example, lugs, flanges, openings, fasteners, other attachment features, or any combination thereof. The battery pack housing 322 may include one or more attachment features 328 corresponding to the one or more attachment features 326 of the battery pack cover 324, such as, for example, lugs, flanges, openings, fasteners, other attachment features, or any combination thereof.

[0168] Referring to FIG23, as in the previous embodiment, the housing 302 of the sensor device 300 may support a PCB 332, and the PCB 332 and / or the housing 302 may support various electronic components, including, for example, a pressure sensor 334. The pressure sensor 334 may be electrically connected to various other electronic components (e.g., a processor) of the sensor device 300 via the PCB and / or other electrical connection structures.

[0169] Referring to Figures 18-23, the housing 302 may also support a fixing member 330 extending away from one surface of the housing 302 and fluidly connecting one exterior of the housing 302 to one interior of the housing 302. For example, the pressure sensor of the sensing device 300 may be fluidly connected to a volume 274 (e.g., a pressurized tire cavity) within the radially outer tire connection portion 130 of the rim 122 via the fixing member 330 and a flexible tube (e.g., via a bolt with a port, as described above) to the fixing member 330 and the radially outer tire connection portion 130 of the rim 122.

[0170] The fixing member 330 can be of various types. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figures 16-23, the fixing member 330 is a hollow barb to which the flexible tubing system is attached. Other types of fixing members may be provided.

[0171] Referring to Figure 23, a fluid passage 336 (e.g., at least partially forming a fluid path) extends through a portion 338 of the fixing member 330 and the housing 302. The fluid passage 336 fluidly connects an exterior of the sensing device 300 (e.g., a tire cavity 274 via a flexible tube physically connected to the fixing member 330) to a pressure sensor 334, for example, supported by and electrically connected to the PCB 332.

[0172] Figures 24-31 illustrate a sensor device 400 according to a third embodiment, which can be attached (e.g., mounted) to a rim 122 and fluidly connected to a volume (e.g., a tire cavity) defined, for example, by the tire-connecting portion 130 of the rim 122. Similar to the first embodiment of the sensor device 200 shown in Figures 3-14, the sensor device 400 can be attached to the radially outer tire-connecting portion 130 of the rim 122. In other embodiments, the sensor device 400 can be attached in another manner to the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 and / or to the radially outer tire-connecting portion 130 of the rim 122.

[0173] Referring to Figures 29 and 31, similar to the first embodiment of the sensor device 200 shown in Figures 3-14, the sensor device 400 includes a housing 402 attached between the radially inner portion and the outer tire engagement portion. For example, the sensor device 400 is clamped between the radially inner portion and the outer tire engagement portion by a connector 404. The sensor device 400 includes a battery pack housing 406 removably attached to the housing 402, such that a battery pack 408 disposed within the battery pack housing 406 can be involved at the radially inner portion 136 without having to remove the housing 402 from the rim 122. For example, the battery pack housing 406 is assembled as a tray, and the tray 406 is slidable relative to the housing 402 of the sensor device 400 and can be locked relative to the housing 402 via a locking mechanism 410.

[0174] Referring to Figure 29, the sensor device 400 includes a pressure sensor 412, which is powered by a battery pack 408 disposed within a battery pack housing 406. The sensor device 400 is attached to a wheel rim 122 via a connector 404 such that an outer surface of the sensor device 400 (e.g., including an outer surface 416 of the housing 402 and an outer surface 418 of the battery pack housing 406 of the sensor device 400) is flush with the radially inner portion 136 of the wheel rim 122. In other words, the sensor device 400 is attached to the wheel rim 122 such that the outer surface of the sensor device 400 forms a portion of the radially inner portion 136 of the wheel rim 122.

[0175] In the third embodiment shown in Figures 24-31, the sensor device 400 is attached to the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122. Referring to Figures 28, 30, and 31, the rim 122 includes an opening 420 (e.g., a reinforced opening) that passes through the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 at well 212. A portion of the connector 404 extends through the opening 420 and connects the housing 402 of the sensor device 400 to the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122.

[0176] In the embodiment shown in Figures 24-31, the connector 404 includes: a container 422 (e.g., a pouch) disposed within a volume 274 within the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122 (e.g., at least partially within a well 212 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 130); and a shaft 424 physically and fluidly connected to the container 422. The shaft 424 is, for example, a tube (e.g., a flexible tube), but other configurations are available. The shaft 424 includes threads 426 on one of its outer surfaces. These threads 426 can connect to corresponding threads 428 in a threaded opening 430 in the housing 402 of the sensor device 400 to attach the connector 404 to the housing 402 of the sensor device 400, and thus attach the sensor device 400 to the rim 122.

[0177] When the thread 426 of the shaft 424 engages with the corresponding thread 428 in the threaded opening 430 of the housing 402, the connector 404 is rotated in a tightening direction (e.g., a first rotational direction) relative to the housing 402 of the sensor device 400, causing the housing 402 of the sensor device 400 to translate toward the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122 until the sensor device 400 (e.g., the housing 402 of the sensor device 400) is received in the socket 152 through the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122.

[0178] Referring to Figures 29 and 31, the tube 424 includes, for example, a passage 432 extending along the length of one of the tubes 424. This passage 432 is fluidly connected to an internal volume 434 of one of the containers 422. The internal volume 434 of the container 422 is at least partially filled with a fluid 436. In one embodiment, the fluid 436 is an incompressible fluid (e.g., hydraulic oil). In other embodiments, the fluid 436 is compressible.

[0179] Container 422 may be flexible (e.g., made of rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Container 422, at least partially filled with fluid 436, is exposed to a pressure (e.g., a tire pressure) within a volume 274 (e.g., a tire cavity) within the radially outer tire-connecting portion 130 of the rim 122, and this pressure is transmitted to pressure sensor 412 via a passage 432 (e.g., a fluid path) extending along the length of tube 424 (e.g., when the thread 426 of connector 404 is connected to a corresponding thread 428 within a threaded opening 430 in the housing 402 of sensor device 400).

[0180] Container 422, made of a flexible material, allows pressure from an ambient atmosphere (e.g., tire pressure) to be transferred to fluid 436 contained within container 422 (e.g., the pressure from the ambient atmosphere corresponds to the pressure of fluid 436 contained within container 422). The volume of fluid 436 within container 422 is large enough to transmit tire pressure, e.g., without depleting the fluid used to transmit pressure. A suitable volume depends on one of the compressibility properties of the system (e.g., fluid compressibility, residual air bubbles, and the flexibility of container 422). An incompressible system transfers pressure to pressure sensor 412 without changing the volume of container 422, while a compressible system directs fluid 436 toward pressure sensor 412 to equalize pressure in the system. Fluid 436 may be selected to have temperature stability (e.g., freezing point, boiling point) and chemical compatibility with any containing elements (e.g., container 422 and tube 424).

[0181] The tube 424, which transmits pressure between the container 422 of connector 404 and pressure sensor 412, can be of various lengths, allowing for optimal placement of sensor device 400 and / or container 422 to best suit the design requirements of a wheel and / or rim 122. This configuration (e.g., including container 422 filled with fluid 436 and tube 424) enables sensor device 400 to be compatible with both tubeless and tubeless wheel installations, and creates a closed pressure sensing circuit that is not contaminated by tire sealant.

[0182] Figure 32 illustrates a rim 500 for a bicycle wheel, such as the front wheel 54 of Figure 1, which is detached from the rest of the bicycle 50, without an attached tire, and without spokes (e.g., spokes 124 of Figure 1) or a hub (e.g., a center hub 126 of Figure 1). The rim 500 includes a tire-connecting portion 502 for engaging with the tire 120, as shown in Figure 1. The tire-connecting portion 502 is assembled radially outward from a spoke receiving surface 504 disposed along an inner circumference 506 of the rim 500. In other words, the tire-connecting portion 502 is a radially outward tire-connecting portion. In one embodiment, the tire-connecting portion 502 is disposed along an outer circumference 508 of the rim 500. The tire-connecting portion 502 is assembled to be attached to the tire using a clamping tire attachment configuration, including a bead interlock attachment. Other configurations of the tire connection portion 502 may also be provided to allow the use of other types of tires on the rim 500. For example, tubeless tires, including those with interlocking bead attachments, may be used.

[0183] The rim 500 provides a structure for attaching spokes to the rim 500 at a receiving portion of the rim 500, which is adjacent to the spoke receiving surface 504. Thus, the spoke receiving surface 504 is a portion of a spoke connecting portion 510 (e.g., a radially inward portion) of the rim 500. In one embodiment, the spoke connecting portion 510 of the rim 500 is disposed along the inner circumference 506 of the rim 500. In another embodiment, the spoke receiving surface 504 and the spoke connecting portion 510 may be separate components and / or portions of the rim 500. For example, spokes may pass through the spoke receiving surface 504, and the structure for attaching to the rim 500 may be configured to approximate the tire connecting portion 502.

[0184] The spoke receiving surface 504 can be shaped in various ways. For example, the spoke receiving surface 504 can be circular. In the embodiment shown in FIG32, the spoke receiving surface 504 is shaped as a sawtooth wave. In other embodiments, the spoke receiving surface 504 can be shaped as a parabolic wave or another shape.

[0185] The rim 500 includes a first sidewall 512 and a second sidewall 514 extending between the tire-connecting portion 502 and the spoke-connecting portion 510. For example, the first sidewall 512 and the second sidewall 514 extend radially outward from the spoke-connecting portion 510 to the tire-connecting portion 502. The first sidewall 512 is spaced apart from the second sidewall 514. The rim 500 may be hollow, for example, between the first sidewall 512, the second sidewall 514, the tire-connecting portion 502, and the spoke-connecting portion 510.

[0186] At least a portion of the rim 500 (e.g., the first sidewall 512 and the second sidewall 514) is formed of one or more composite materials. In one embodiment, the entire rim 500 is formed of one or more composite materials. In one example, fiber-reinforced plastic forms a one-piece monocoque rim consisting of a layered assembly of sheets, including a tire-connecting portion 502, a first sidewall 512, a second sidewall 514, and a spoke-connecting portion 510. Other configurations may also be provided. For example, a combination of plastic and carbon fiber-reinforced plastic forms a one-piece monocoque rim consisting of a plastic layer and a carbon fiber layer, including a tire-connecting portion 502, a first sidewall 512, a second sidewall 514, and a spoke-connecting portion 510. Other configurations may also be provided.

[0187] The wheel rim 500 may, for example, be at least partially formed of a laminate comprising one or more compressed layers of one or more materials. Various materials may be included within the laminate, including, for example, a thermoplastic material and / or a thermoplastic material having a reinforcing fiber material (e.g., a sheet pre-formed from a bendable fabric). The reinforcing fiber material may be various reinforcing materials, including, for example, nylon. More, fewer, and / or different materials may be included within the laminate. For example, the reinforcing fiber material may be a natural fiber, such as, for example, flax.

[0188] The front wheel 54 and the rear wheel 56 may include rims 500 that can be assembled for use with any size wheel. In one embodiment, the rims 500 are assembled for use with a wheel that conforms to a 700C (e.g., a 622 mm diameter clamp and / or ISCO 622 mm) bicycle wheel standard.

[0189] In one embodiment, the first sidewall 512, second sidewall 514, spoke joint 510, and tire joint 502 of the front wheel 54 and / or rear wheel 56 of the bicycle 50 (e.g., the front wheel 54 and rear wheel 56 in the example of FIG. 1) are at least partially formed of one or more layers (e.g., composite material layers) of one or more composite materials. Each of these layers may include one or more individual composite material fabric layers (e.g., sheets). Different layers of different composite materials may each include different numbers of composite material layers or sheets. At least some composite material layers may be of different shapes and / or sizes. Alternatively, all composite material layers may be of the same shape and / or size.

[0190] The rim 500 of Figure 32 also includes a sensor device 516 mounted within the rim 500. The sensor device 516 can be configured to measure and / or determine data that may be useful to, for example, a rider of the bicycle 50, and transmit that data to, for example, a computing device for display to the rider (e.g., a computing device of the bicycle 50 or a mobile computing device remote from the bicycle 50). For example, the sensor device 516 can transmit the data to a bicycle control unit 96 for display to the rider and / or further processing. The sensor device 516 may include various electronic components and can measure and / or determine various types of data associated with, for example, the rim 500 and / or the bicycle 50. For example, the sensor device 516 can measure and / or determine, for example, tire pressure data, wheel speed data, odometer data, data related to rim composite health, wheel tilt and yaw data, product data, road feedback data, LED status indicators, one or more other types of data, or any combination thereof.

[0191] The radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500 includes a socket 518 (e.g., a cavity) located within the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500 at a first position 520 (e.g., a first circumferential position 520) along the inner circumference 506. A sensor device 516 may be disposed within the socket 518 and attached to the rim 500 such that a portion of the sensor device 516 forms part of the radially inner portion 510 (e.g., the inner circumference 506) of the rim 500. For example, the socket 518 may enclose the sensor device 516 to improve aerodynamic performance and aesthetics compared to prior art sensors mounted on a valve stem.

[0192] The socket 518 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. For example, the socket 518 can be large enough to accommodate a sensor device 516, including one or more sensors, one or more battery packs, a processor, a memory, other electronic devices, or any combination thereof, but small enough to fit within an area between two adjacent spokes (e.g., approximately 150 mm) of a wheel using a rim 500. In one embodiment, one length (e.g., an arc length) of the socket 518 is less than or equal to 70 mm. However, in other embodiments, a larger socket 518 may be provided.

[0193] The rim 500 may include a counterweight 522 (e.g., a weight) positioned at a second location 524 (e.g., a second circumferential location 524) along its inner circumference 506. The counterweight 522 may be sized, shaped, and / or made of a specific material to counteract the weight of the sensor device 516 housed in the socket 518. In one embodiment, the counterweight 522 is integrated into the composite material forming the spoke joint portion 510 of the rim 500. For example, the spoke joint portion 510 may include more layers of composite material at the second circumferential location 524 compared to the first circumferential location 520. In other words, the spoke joint portion 510 may include more material, be thicker, and have more weight at the second circumferential location 524 compared to the first circumferential location 520. In another embodiment, the counterweight 522 may include another material (e.g., another composite material or a metal) attached to or integrated into the composite material at the second circumferential location 524. Other types of counterweights may be provided.

[0194] The first circumferential position 520 along the inner circumference 506 where the socket 518 is located is different from the second circumferential position 524 along the inner circumference 506 where the balance 522 is located. In other words, the sensor device 516 is located at a distance away from the balance 522 (e.g., at the far end relative to the balance).

[0195] In one embodiment, a second circumferential position 524 along the inner circumference 506 is relative to a first circumferential position 520 along the inner circumference 506. In other words, in this embodiment, the sensor device 516 is relative to a balance 522 (e.g., on the opposite side of the inner circumference 506 of the rim 500). By positioning the balance 522 opposite to the sensor device 516, a wheel (e.g., wheel 54 or 56) with the rim 500 mounted can be rebalanced for optimal performance: any weight added by the sensor device 516 at the first circumferential position 520 (e.g., relative to a rim without a sensor device 516) can be compensated for by the balance 522 (e.g., the balance). This ability to balance the weight on the opposite side of the inner circumference 506 of the rim 500 allows the sensor device 516 to include a larger battery pack and perform more functions for a given battery pack life.

[0196] The socket 518 can be assembled in various ways to securely attach the sensor device 516 to the rim 500 at the socket 518, with the sensor device 516 flush with the radially inward portion 510 of the rim 500. For example, the rim 500 may be structurally reinforced around the socket 518 (e.g., a thicker composite laminate around the socket 518). The rim 500 may be structurally reinforced around the socket 518 using the same material as that used to make the rim 500 (e.g., a composite material) or one or more other materials. As another example, the socket 518 may have an interface (e.g., a corresponding flange) complementary to the sensor device 516 (e.g., a housing of the sensor device 516) to allow for secure attachment of the sensor device 516 to the rim 500 at the socket 518.

[0197] One of the sensors in the sensing device 516 (e.g., a pressure sensor) has a sensor port (e.g., a pressure sensor port) exposed at a distal end of the sensing device 516 (e.g., at a distance relative to the sensing device) on a portion of the rim. For example, the pressure sensor port of the pressure sensor is fluidly connected to a tire bed at the tire-mounted portion 502 of the rim 500, so that the pressure sensor can measure a tire pressure when the tire 120 is mounted on the rim 500, for example. In other words, the pressure sensor port is blinded, which reduces the possibility of sealant obstruction of the sensor port. The pressure sensor port of the pressure sensor can be fluidly connected to the tire bed at the tire-mounted portion 502 of the rim 500 in various ways, for example. The configuration of this fluid connection may depend on how the sensing device 516 is attached to the rim 500. The embodiments shown in Figures 33-47 and discussed below are another embodiment of the attachment of a sensor device 516 to a rim 500 and the fluid connection structure between the sensor device 516 and the tire bed at the tire connection portion 502 of the rim 500.

[0198] Figures 33-47 illustrate a sensor device 516 according to a fourth embodiment, which can be attached (e.g., mounted) to a rim 500 and is fluidly connected to a volume defined, for example, by the tire connection portion 502 of the rim 500.

[0199] Referring to Figures 33 and 38, the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 includes a first tire holding portion 526 and a second tire holding portion 528 spaced apart from the first tire holding portion 526. The first tire holding portion 526 extends from a first sidewall 512, and the second tire holding portion 528 extends from a second sidewall 514. The first sidewall 512 and the second sidewall 514 extend radially inward from the radially outer tire engagement portion 502.

[0200] The first tire holding portion 526 includes a first tire holding wall 530. In one embodiment, the first tire holding portion 526 also includes a first protrusion (e.g., a first tire holding feature) (not shown). The first protrusion may extend away from the first tire holding wall 530. The first protrusion may be of various shapes, including, for example, a shape having a rectangular cross-section with a semi-circular cap. The first protrusion may extend circumferentially around the rim 500.

[0201] The second tire holding portion 528 includes a second tire holding wall 532. The second tire holding wall 532 is opposite to and spaced apart from the first tire holding wall 530. In one embodiment, the second tire holding portion 528 also includes a second protrusion (e.g., a second tire holding feature) (not shown). The second protrusion may extend toward the first tire holding portion 526 away from the second tire holding wall 530. The second protrusion may be of various shapes, including, for example, a shape having a rectangular cross-section and a semi-circular cap. The second protrusion may extend circumferentially around the rim 500. The first and second protrusions may be of other shapes.

[0202] The rim 500 can accommodate a tire 120 (see Figure 1), i.e., a tubeless caliper tire, for example. The tire 120 includes a bead that interacts with radially outer tire engagement portions 502 of the rim 500 (e.g., a first tire holding portion 526 and a second tire holding portion 528) to attach and retain the tire 120 to and on the rim 500. These beads may include various materials, such as carbon, a steel wire, or amide (e.g., Kevlar™) fibers, within the beads to prevent the tire 120 from detaching from the rim 500. Due to reinforcement with, for example, carbon, steel wire, or Kevlar™ fibers, these beads resist stretching from internal air pressure. Alternatively, these beads may be made of the same material as the tire 120 (e.g., rubber).

[0203] The radially outer tire engagement portion 502 also includes a well 534 positioned between the first tire holding portion 526 and the second tire holding portion 528 of the rim 500. The well 534 provides a volume into which the tire bead of the tire 120 can be placed when the tire 120 is attached to the rim 500. When the tire 120 is inflated, the tire beads of the tire 120 move away from each other until they interact with the first tire holding portion 526 and the second tire holding portion 528, respectively. During inflation, the tire beads of the tire 120 abut against the first tire holding wall 530 and the second tire holding wall 532, respectively. In one embodiment, the first tire-holding profile and the second tire-holding profile system, for example, keep the tire bead of the tire 120 within the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 (e.g., keep the tire bead of the tire 120 engaged with the first tire-holding wall 530 and the second tire-holding wall 532), and thus prevent the tire 120 from leaking air from the rim 500. The contact between the tire bead and the first tire-holding wall 530 and the second tire-holding wall 532 is respectively formed as a seal between the inflated tire 120 and the rim 500.

[0204] The radially outer tire engagement portion 502 may also include ridges (e.g., bead protrusions; a first bead protrusion and a second bead protrusion), which are respectively located on opposite sides of the well 534. A first shelf 536 (e.g., a first bead shelf) extends away from the first tire holding wall 530 (e.g., between the first tire holding wall 530 and the first bead protrusion), and a second shelf 538 (e.g., a second bead shelf) extends away from the second tire holding wall 532 (e.g., between the second tire holding wall 532 and the second bead protrusion). In one embodiment, curved transition regions 540 extend between the first shelf 536 and the first tire holding wall 530 and between the second shelf 538 and the second tire holding wall 532, respectively. The bead protrusions may be respectively positioned on opposite sides of the well 534 and may be raised relative to the first shelf 536 and the second shelf 538, respectively. If tire 120 loses pressure, the bead protrusion can help hold tire 120 on rim 500.

[0205] As shown in Figures 33 and 38, the rim 500 is hollow, and the shape of a volume 542 within the rim 500 can be defined by a first sidewall 512, a second sidewall 514, a radially outer tire connection portion 502 (e.g., well 534, first shelf 536, and second shelf 538), and a radially inner portion 510. The volume 542 can be of various sizes and / or shapes. When the sensor device 516 is mounted (e.g., attached to) the rim 500, at least a portion of the sensor device 516 is located within the volume 542.

[0206] Referring to Figure 37, the sensor device 516 includes a housing 544 and a battery pack housing 546. A socket 518 at the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500 is formed by an opening 548 through the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500 and a flange 550 extending around the opening 548. The housing 544 of the sensor device 500 includes a cover 552 having a flange 554 corresponding to (e.g., sized and shaped to interface with) the flange 550 of the socket 518, such that when the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 is mounted on the rim 500, the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 is flush with the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500.

[0207] Referring to Figures 36 and 37, the socket 518 can be located at any number of positions along the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500. For example, the socket 518 can be located between adjacent holes in the rim 500 for spokes. For example, as shown in Figure 36, the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500 may include spoke engagement holes 555 extending through the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500 (e.g., well 534). A spoke engagement hole 555 (e.g., twenty spoke engagement holes 555) may be regularly distributed around the outer circumference 508 of the rim 500, and the socket 518 may be centered between adjacent pairs of spoke engagement holes 555 among the plurality of spoke engagement holes 555 shown in Figure 36.

[0208] Referring to Figure 37, the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500 may include nipple holes 557 extending through the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500. A plurality of nipple holes 557 (e.g., twenty nipple holes; corresponding to the number of spoke engagement holes 555) may be regularly distributed around the inner circumference 506 of the rim 500, and a socket 518 may be centered between adjacent pairs of nipple holes 557 as shown in Figure 37. Other locations for the socket 518 within the rim 500 may be provided.

[0209] The housing 544 of the sensor device 516 supports various components of the sensor device 516 (e.g., electronic components). For example, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 supports a battery pack housing 546. Referring to Figures 38, 40-42, 45 and 46, the battery pack housing 546 supports a printed circuit board (PCB) 556 on which various electronic components can be mounted and electrically connected. As will be discussed in more detail below, referring to Figure 38, PCB 556 may support and electrically connect one or more processors (e.g., a microcontroller) 558, a light-emitting diode (LED) 560 (see Figures 38 and 40-42), one or more antennas 562 (e.g., a radio frequency device), one or more sensors 564 (e.g., a pressure sensor, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, and / or a resistance measurement interface), one or more power supplies 566 (e.g., a battery pack), a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader 568 (e.g., a near field communication (NFC) reader or module), one or more other electronic components, or any combination thereof. PCB 556 may support and electrically connect more, fewer, and / or different components of the sensing device 516.

[0210] The battery housing 546 of the sensor device 516 may support the PCB 556 in various ways, for example. For instance, the PCB 556 can be attached to the battery housing 546 in various ways, including, for example, using one or more fasteners (e.g., a combination of screws or nuts / bolts), welding, adhesive, lugs, flanges, other shapes, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 directly supports the PCB 556 (e.g., the PCB 556 is directly attached to the housing 544 of the sensor device 516).

[0211] Referring to Figures 37 and 47, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 can be made of various materials. For example, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 can be made of the same material as the rim 500 (e.g., a composite material). In another example, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 can be made of two or more materials. For example, the cover 552 of the housing 544 can be made of the same material as the rim 500 (e.g., a composite material), and the remainder of the housing 544 can be made of another material (e.g., a plastic). In yet another example, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 can be made of a material different from the rim 500 (e.g., a composite material) (e.g., a plastic).

[0212] The housing 544 of the sensor device 516 can be of various sizes and / or shapes. The size and / or shape of the housing 544 can be defined by the following: the size and shape of the volume 542 within the rim 500, the spoke spacing of the wheel on which the rim 500 is mounted, and / or the number and size of the components supported within the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. For example, the size of a power source (e.g., a coin cell battery pack) supported within the housing 544 can define a minimum size of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 (e.g., in one or more dimensions).

[0213] Referring to Figures 43-46, the battery pack housing 546 can be assembled in various ways, and the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 can support the battery pack housing 546 in various ways. For example, referring to Figures 45 and 46, the housing 544 may include a hollow body 570 in which the battery pack housing 546 can be disposed. A cover 552 is attached to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. In one embodiment, the cover 552 and the hollow body 570 form a single component. In one embodiment, the battery pack housing 546 may be a tray that can be inserted into a corresponding opening 572 within the housing 544. For example, the opening 572 may extend through one or more sides of the hollow body 570 and into the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516.

[0214] Referring to FIG. 37, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 may include a first opening 574 through the housing 544 (e.g., through the cover 552 of the housing 544) and a second opening 576 through the housing 544 (e.g., through a latch rotatably attached to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544). Referring to FIGS. 41 and 42, the battery pack housing 546 may include an opening 578 (e.g., an air passage) extending through the battery pack housing 546. When the battery pack housing 546 is positioned within the hollow body 570 of the housing, an air valve 580 may be positioned such that the air valve 580 extends through the first opening 574 of the housing 544, through the air passage 578 of the battery pack housing 546, and through the second opening 576 of the housing 544, such that one position of the battery pack housing 546 is fixed relative to the housing 544.

[0215] When the battery pack housing 546 is mounted within the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, one length of the air passage 578 may extend in various directions relative to the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 (e.g., the cover 552 of the housing 544). For example, the length of the air passage 578 may extend in a direction perpendicular to a surface (e.g., an outer surface) of the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. In other embodiments, the length of the air passage 578 may extend in other directions relative to, for example, the outer surface of the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516.

[0216] Referring to Figure 37, the air valve 580 may include a cap 581, which may be connected to one end of the air valve 580. The cap 581 may cover the end of the air valve 580 so that the cap 581 may prevent air from escaping from a tire attached to the wheel rim 500, prevent unintended contact with the air valve 580, and / or prevent debris from entering the air valve 580.

[0217] Referring to Figures 33-36 and 39, the attachment of the air valve 580 to the rim 500 can also attach the sensor device 516 to the rim 500. The radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500 includes an opening 582 extending through it. The opening 582 is, for example, within a well 534 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 502. In one embodiment, the rim 500 has a reinforcing portion surrounding the opening 582. Compared to other portions of the rim 500, the reinforcing portion surrounding the opening 582 is, for example, a thicker composite laminate. The length of the opening 582 is less than the length of the socket 518.

[0218] The air valve 580 includes, for example, a head 584 (e.g., a ported head) and a main body 586 (e.g., a hollow main body) having threads 588. The air valve 580 extends through an opening 582 through the radially outer tire connection portion 502 such that the head 584 of the air valve 580 contacts (e.g., abuts) a reinforced portion surrounding the opening 582 through the radially outer tire connection portion 502, and the main body 586 extends through the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 (e.g., through a first opening 574 through the housing 544, through an air passage 578 through the battery pack housing 546, and through a second opening 576 through the housing 544). The air valve 580 may be sized (e.g., having a length) such that when the air valve 580 is positioned such that its head 584 abuts against the radially outer tire joint portion 502 of the rim 500, a portion of the main body 586 of the air valve 580 extends beyond the sensor device 516 and away from the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500. In other words, a portion of the main body 586 of the air valve 580 is outside the rim 500, adjacent to the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500 (e.g., the air valve 580 extends beyond the spoke joint portion 510 of the rim 500).

[0219] Referring to Figures 33-36 and 39, the air valve 580 includes a fastener 590 (e.g., a knurled nut) that engages with the thread 588 of the main body 586 of the air valve 580. When the fastener 590 is rotated and moved via the threaded connection structure to contact the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, the head 584 of the air valve 580 is pulled to contact the radial outer tire engagement portion 502 (e.g., the reinforced portion surrounding the opening 582 of the radial outer tire engagement portion 502), and the flange 554 of the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 is pushed by the fastener 590 to contact the flange 550 of the socket 518 within the rim 500.

[0220] Fastener 590 can be tightened against the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 to tighten the cover 552 of the housing 544 against the rim 500. In one embodiment, when the flange 554 of the cover 552 is in contact with the flange 550 of the socket 518, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 is at a distance relative to (e.g., away from) the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500. In other words, when the sensor device 516 is attached to the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500 via the air valve 580, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 is not in contact with the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500.

[0221] Referring to Figures 40-46, the battery pack housing 546, configured as a tray, supports, for example, a battery pack 566 (e.g., a coin cell battery pack). The tray 546 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. The tray 546 may be smaller than the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 and may be, for example, rectangular in shape. The tray 546 may be sized and / or shaped such that the battery pack 566 fits within the tray 546. For example, the size of the battery pack 566 (e.g., a coin cell battery pack) supported within the tray 546 defines at least one minimum dimension of the tray 546. Other configurations are available.

[0222] The tray 546 can be made of various materials. For example, the tray 546 may be made of the same material (e.g., a composite material) as the rim 500 and / or the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. In another example, the tray 546 may be made of two or more materials. For example, a first portion of the tray 546 may be made of the same material (e.g., a composite material) as the rim 500, and the remaining portion of the tray 546 may be made of another material (e.g., a plastic). In yet another example, the tray 546 may be made of a material (e.g., a plastic) different from that of the rim 500 (e.g., a composite material) and / or the housing 544 of the sensor device 516.

[0223] Referring to Figures 43-46, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 may, for example, include a locking mechanism 594, which is configured to hold (e.g., at least partially enclose) the tray 546 within the housing 544 (e.g., the hollow body 570 of the housing 544) when the tray 546 is placed within the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 (e.g., via insertion through an opening 572 through one or more sides of the hollow body 570). For example, the locking mechanism 594 includes a latching mechanism 596 (e.g., a latch). The latch 596 is rotatably attached to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 via a pivot 598 (e.g., a rod or pin) extending through the latch 596 and a wall of the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. In other embodiments, other locking mechanisms may be used.

[0224] The latch 596 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. For example, the latch 596 can be L-shaped. In other embodiments, the latch 596 can be other shapes, including, for example, rectangular. The latch 596 can be of various sizes. For example, the latch 596 can be sized to at least cover the opening 572 through one or more sides of the hollow body 570.

[0225] The latch 596 is rotatable relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 via a pivot 598 between a first rotational position (e.g., an open position; see Figures 44-46) and a second rotational position (e.g., a closed position; see Figure 43). An opening 572 may extend through a first side 620 and a second side 622 of the hollow body 570. In the closed position, the L-shaped latch 596 may, for example, at least cover the opening 575 through the second side 622 of the hollow body 570 and at least partially enclose the tray 546 within the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. In embodiments where the latch 596 is rectangular, in the closed position, the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 may include the opening 572 through the first side 620 of the hollow body 570, and the latch 596 may cover the opening 572 through the first side 620 of the hollow body 570. In this embodiment, the hollow body 570 of the housing 544, combined with the latch 596 in the closed position, can completely enclose the tray 546.

[0226] The locking mechanism 594 is used to open and close the opening 572 through at least the second side 622 of the hollow body 570 of the housing 544, and to release and hold the tray 546 through the first side 620 of the hollow body 570. Accordingly, in the open position of the latch 596, the tray 546 can be moved in and out (e.g., translated) of the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 (e.g., when the air valve 580 is removed), and in the closed position of the latch 596, the tray 546 can be at least partially enclosed within the hollow body 570 of the housing 544. In one embodiment, the latch 596 includes a protrusion and / or a stop 624 (e.g., a protrusion extending away from one surface of the latch 596) at one end 626 of the latch 596. The locking mechanism 594 also includes a stop or protrusion 628 (e.g., a stop) in the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, wherein the protrusion 624 of the latch 596 is positioned, for example, in the stop or protrusion 628 when the latch 596 is in the closed position. When the latch 596 is in the closed position, the protrusion 624 of the latch 596 can be pressed into the stop 628 in the housing 544 of the sensor device 516.

[0227] The latch 596, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, and / or the tray 546 may include various additional and / or alternative connectors as part of the locking mechanism 594 to secure the latch 596 in one position relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing when the latch 596 is in the closed position and to enclose the battery pack 566 within the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. For example, the locking mechanism may include one or more other protrusions, stops, notches, lugs, flanges, fasteners (e.g., screws or nut / bolt combinations), and / or other connectors at the latch 596, the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, and / or the tray 546.

[0228] Referring to Figure 43, when the latch 596 is in the closed position, the user can use force to release the connection between the protrusion 624 of the latch 596 and the stop portion 628 in the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, allowing the latch 596 to rotate freely relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 and move toward the open position. Referring to Figure 44, once the connection between the protrusion 624 of the latch 596 and the stop portion 628 in the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 is released, the latch 596 rotates freely relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 via the pivot 598. With the latch 596 in the position shown in FIG. 44 relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 (e.g., open position), and with the sensor device 516 removed from the rim 500 and air valve 580 (e.g., it is also in one position relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 locking the tray 546), the tray 546 can be removed from the hollow body 570 of the housing 544.

[0229] As shown in the embodiments of Figures 43-46, the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 may be shaped (e.g., including a recess) at a pivot 598 such that at least a portion of the latch 596 (e.g., one end 632 of the latch 596) is recessed relative to an outer surface 630 of the hollow body 570 of the housing 544. The end 632 of the latch 596 may be shaped (e.g., irregularly shaped) such that when the latch 596 is in the open position, the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 acts as a stop to rotation relative to the end 632 of the latch 596, and thus to the latch 596 as a whole. In other words, the combination of the shape of the end 632 of the latch 596 and the shape of the recess in the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 (in which the end 632 of the latch 596 rotates) prevents the latch 596 from excessively rotating relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544.

[0230] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 594 may include additional locking features that assemble to lock the tray 546 relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. For example, the locking mechanism 594 may also include one or more protrusions, latches, lugs, flanges, fasteners, other connectors, or any combination thereof at the tray 546 and / or housing 544 (e.g., the hollow body 570 of the housing 544) of the sensor device 516. In this embodiment, this connection between the tray 546 and the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 may be released before the tray 546 is movable (e.g., translatable) relative to the hollow body 570.

[0231] Referring to Figure 45, once the locking mechanism 594 is released (e.g., unlocked), the tray 546 is freely movable (e.g., translated) relative to the hollow body 570 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 and can be removed from the housing 544 of the sensor device 516. Referring to Figure 46, once the tray 546 has been removed from the housing 544 of the sensor device 516, the battery pack 566 can be removed from the tray 546. For example, when the battery pack 566 is depleted, it can be replaced with a new battery pack.

[0232] Referring to Figure 46, tray 546 includes battery pack supports 634 extending away from a battery pack support surface 636 on which the battery pack 566 is positioned. For example, tray 546 includes three battery pack supports 634 spaced circumferentially around one of the battery pack 566 when the battery pack 566 is contained within tray 546. Each battery pack support 634 may include lugs 638 at its respective end. At least a portion of the battery pack supports 634 (e.g., both of the battery pack supports) may be flexible such that portions of the battery pack supports 634 flex away from the battery pack 566 as the battery 566 is being pressed against the battery pack support surface 636, and return towards the battery pack 566 when the battery pack 566 is positioned on the battery pack support surface 636. The lugs 638 then secure the battery pack 566 relative to the battery pack support surface 636 and thus to one of the tray 546. The battery pack 566 can be pressed onto the tray 546 so that a user can apply a force to the battery pack 566 to remove the battery pack 566 from the tray 546.

[0233] The tray 546 includes electrical terminals 640 supported by a PCB 556, which extend through a battery pack support surface 636. When the battery pack 566 is pressed onto the battery pack support surface 636 of the tray 546, the electrical terminals 640 contact the battery pack 566 within the tray 546. The electrical terminals 640 can also be electrically connected via the PCB 556 to the electronic components of the sensor device 516, such that when the tray 546 is positioned on the battery pack support surface 636 of the tray 546, the battery pack 566 powers the electronic components of the sensor device 516. For example, the battery pack 566 can power various electrical components supported by and electrically connected to the PCB 556 via the electrical terminals 640. As further discussed below, the battery pack 566 can power a pressure sensor 650 and an LED 560 of the sensor device 516. In other embodiments, the battery pack 566 can power additional and / or different electrical components of the sensor device 516.

[0234] Referring to Figures 39, 41, and 42, the cover 552 of the housing 544 of the sensor device 516 and the air valve 580 via the tray 546 of the sensor device 516 can function as a watertight sealing mechanism for the sensor device 516. Referring to Figure 39, the sensor device 516 may include one or more seals 654 (e.g., a single seal 654) that assemble to seal an interface between the sensor device 516 and the remainder of the rim 500 at a socket 518 within the rim 500. For example, the sensor device 516 includes a seal 654 at the cover 552 of the housing 544 to prevent moisture intrusion when the sensor device 516 is mounted within the socket 518 of the rim 500. The seal 654 may be sized and shaped based on the size and shape of the flange 554 of the cover 552. For example, the seal 654 can be sized and shaped to match the size and shape of the flange 554 of the cover 552 of the housing 544. The seal 654 can be various types of seals, including, for example, a gasket or an O-ring, which are assembled to create a watertight seal when the sensor device 516 is mounted in the socket 518 of the rim 500.

[0235] Referring to Figures 41 and 42, the air valve 580 may also include one or more seals 656 disposed around the air valve 580 at one or more locations along the air valve 580. For example, the air valve 580 may include a first seal 656a disposed between the knurled nut 590 and the cover 552 of the housing 544. The air valve 580 may also include a second seal 656b and a third seal 656c located along the positions of the air valve 580, such that when the sensor device 516 and the air valve 580 are mounted at the socket 518 within the rim 500, the second seal 656b and the third seal 656c are within and in contact with the battery pack housing 546 (e.g., tray) through the air passage 578. The air valve 580 may also include a fourth seal 656d below the head 584 of the air valve 580, such that when the sensor device 516 and the air valve 580 are mounted at the socket 518 within the rim 500, the fourth seal 656d is positioned between the radially outer tire joint portion 502 (e.g., around a reinforced portion passing through the opening 582 of the radially outer tire joint portion 502) and the head 584 of the air valve 580.

[0236] In other embodiments, additional and / or different seals may be placed at other locations to provide a watertight seal. For example, in one embodiment, tray 546 and / or latch 596 include one or more seals (e.g., gaskets). As another example, air valve 580 may include more, fewer, and / or different seals, and / or first seal 656a, second seal 656b, third seal 656c, and / or fourth seal 656d may be respectively located at different positions along air valve 580.

[0237] Referring to FIG. 39, the sensor device 516 (e.g., the housing 544 of the sensor device 516) can be attached (e.g., mounted or anchored) to the rim 500 with the air valve 580 acting as a fastener. The sensor device 516 can be attached to the radially outer tire coupling portion 502, for example, with the air valve 580. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 39, for example, the sensor device 516 can be attached to the radially outer tire coupling portion 502 at the well 534 of the rim 500, where the air valve 580 acts as a fastener.

[0238] Air valve 580 can be of various types, including, for example, a Schrader valve, a Presta valve, or a Woods valve. In the embodiment shown in Figure 39, air valve 580 is a Presta valve.

[0239] Air valve 580 extends through an air passage 578 (e.g., a first air passage) via a battery pack housing 546 (e.g., a tray) and is ported. Air valve 580 includes a passage 657 (e.g., a central passage) along its length. Air valve 580 includes a repressible pin 658 disposed within the central passage 657. When a user presses down the repressible pin 658 (e.g., moves the repressible pin in a direction toward the head 584 of air valve 580 to one of the open positions of air valve 580), the volume (e.g., a tire cavity) defined by the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of rim 500 is fluidly connected to the environment outside rim 500. If the tire cavity is under pressure, when the air valve 580 is in the open position, fluid (e.g., air) can move from the radially outer tire connection portion 502 through the central passage 657 of the air valve 580 and leave the rim 500.

[0240] The tire cavity is also fluidly connected to the pressure sensor 650 of the sensing device 516 via the central passage 657 of the air valve 580. Referring to FIG39, the air valve 580 includes an opening 660 extending through a wall 662 of the air valve 580, which defines the central passage 657 of the air valve 580. For example, the opening 660 extends through the opposite side of the wall 662 in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the central passage 657 extends. In other embodiments, the opening 660 may extend in other directions relative to the direction in which the central passage 657 extends.

[0241] When no force is applied to the depressable pin 658 from outside the rim 500 (e.g., when the depressable pin 658 is not depressed) and the tire cavity is under pressure, the pressurized fluid (e.g., air) in the tire cavity and air valve 580 forces the depressable pin 658 against a shelf 664 (e.g., a flange, a ridge, an extension) within the central passage 657 of the air valve 580, and the air valve 580 is in a closed position. An opening 660 through the wall 662 of the air valve 580 can be positioned along the length of the air valve 580 such that when the sensor device 516 and the air valve 580 are mounted at the socket 518 within the rim 500, the opening 660 is positioned between the second seal 656b and the third seal 656c. Therefore, when the air valve 580 is in the closed position, the tire cavity can be fluidly connected to the first air passage 578 through the battery pack housing 546 via the opening 660 extending through the wall 662 of the air valve 580.

[0242] Referring to Figure 41, the battery pack housing 546 supports the pressure sensor 650 at a distance relative to the first air passage 578 passing through the battery pack housing 546. Referring to Figure 42, the battery pack housing 546 also includes a second air passage 666 extending between a port 668 (e.g., a pressure chamber) of the pressure sensor 650 and the first air passage 578. The second air passage 666 can be of various shapes and / or sizes. For example, the second air passage 666 can be tubular and have a smaller diameter than the first air passage 578. The second air passage 666 (e.g., a length of the second air passage 666) can extend in various directions. For example, the length of the second air passage 666 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the length of the first air passage 578 extends.

[0243] In the embodiment shown in FIG42, the second air passage 666 extends beyond the first air passage 578 and passes through one of the outer surfaces 670 of the battery pack housing 546. The battery pack housing 546 may include a cover 672 (e.g., a removable cap or plug) that covers the second air passage 666 at the outer surface 670 of the battery pack housing 546. The cover 672 can be removed and any debris in the second air passage 666 can be cleaned.

[0244] When the air valve 580 is in the closed position, the pressure sensor 650 of the sensing device 516 (e.g., the port 668 of the pressure sensor 650) is fluidly connected to the tire cavity through the central passage 657 of the air valve 580, the opening 660 through the wall 662 of the air valve 580, the first air passage 578, and the ported head 584 of the air valve 580. The pressure sensor 650 is thus configured to measure the pressure of a fluid (e.g., air) within the tire cavity via the second air passage 666, the first air passage 578, the opening 660 through the wall 662 of the air valve 580, the central passage 657 of the air valve 580, and the ported head 584 of the air valve 580.

[0245] Air valve 580 partially (e.g., together with first air passage 578 and second air passage 666) forms a blind pressure tap that exposes port 668 of pressure sensor 650 to air (e.g., a pressurized tire cavity) within a volume between the first tire holding portion 526 and the second tire holding portion 528 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of rim 500. This blind exposure to the pressurized tire cavity helps, for example, prevent sealant contained within a tire attached to rim 500 or sealant added via air valve 580 from being transmitted, for example, to pressure sensor 650 of sensing device 516. This prevents blockage of pressure sensor 650, for example, minimizing inaccurate measurements by pressure sensor 650. Additionally, because air flows through, for example, the central passage 657 of the air valve 580 (see arrow 671) to inflate or deflate a tire attached to the rim 500, the airflow removes any sealant that may have leaked into the port 668 where the pressure sensor 650 is located. The angle and diameter of the second air passage 666 relative to the airflow direction through the air valve 580 maximize the removal of remaining sealant. For example, the length of the second air passage 666 extending in a direction perpendicular to the airflow direction through the air valve 580 maximizes the removal of remaining sealant.

[0246] Referring to Figures 40-42, a battery pack housing 546 (e.g., PCB 556) supports an LED 560, and the battery pack 566 powers the LED 560 via, for example, PCB 556. A pressure sensor 650 can continuously or at predetermined intervals measure one of the pressures in the inflated tire cavity. A microcontroller 558, communicating with the pressure sensor 650, can identify the measured pressure (e.g., receive the measured pressure from the pressure sensor 650) and compare the measured pressure with one or more predetermined pressures. A sensor device 516 may include a memory (e.g., supported by PCB 556) communicating with or being part of the microcontroller 558, and the memory can store the one or more predetermined pressures.

[0247] In one embodiment, the one or more predetermined pressures may include, for example, a predetermined minimum critical pressure and a predetermined maximum critical pressure. For instance, microcontroller 558 may compare the measured pressure with the predetermined minimum critical pressure and the predetermined maximum critical pressure. If, based on the comparison, the measured pressure is greater than (e.g., equal to) the predetermined minimum critical pressure and less than (e.g., equal to) the predetermined maximum critical pressure, microcontroller 558 may command LED 560 to display green light. If, based on the comparison, the measured pressure is less than the predetermined minimum critical pressure or greater than the predetermined maximum critical pressure, microcontroller 558 may command LED 560 to display red light. In other words, when, based on the comparison, the measured pressure is within a predetermined pressure range, microcontroller 558 may command LED 560 to display green light, and when, based on the comparison, the measured pressure is outside the predetermined pressure range, microcontroller 558 may command LED 560 to display red light. The microcontroller 558 can compare the measured pressure with one or more predetermined pressures at the same intervals as when the pressure is measured or at different intervals (e.g., less frequently). In other embodiments, the microcontroller 558 can compare the measured pressure with additional, fewer, and / or different pressures, and / or the microcontroller 558 can command the LED 560 to generate additional, fewer, and / or different light colors. Referring to Figures 34 and 35, the LED 560 is visible at the spoke junction 510 of the rim 500 so that a user can easily monitor the measured pressure in the inflated tire cavity.

[0248] Figure 48 shows an embodiment of a wheel assembly 700 for a bicycle (e.g., bicycle 50), which includes a sensor device 702 and a wheel 703 (e.g., wheel 54 or 56). The sensor device 702 may be a first embodiment of the sensor device 200 of Figures 3-14, a second embodiment of the sensor device 300 of Figures 16-23, a third embodiment of the sensor device 400 of Figures 24-31, a fourth embodiment of the sensor device 516 of Figures 33-47, or another sensor device. The sensor device 702 includes a housing 704 that supports a PCB 706, one or more electronic components, and one or more power supplies 708 (e.g., a coin cell battery pack). As discussed above, the coin cell battery pack 708 may be supported, for example, by a battery pack housing (e.g., a tray), and the battery pack housing may be supported by the housing 704 (e.g., removably attached to the housing 704). One or more power supplies 708 can power one or more electronic components of the sensor device 702. Other configurations of the battery pack housing are available.

[0249] One or more electronic components may include electronic components supported and electrically connected to PCB 706, and electronic components supported by housing 704 and electrically connected to PCB 706, for example, via one or more conductors (e.g., wires and solder). One or more electronic components may include various types of electronic components, including, for example, one or more processors 710 (e.g., a microcontroller), a user interface module 712 (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED)), a radio frequency unit 714 (e.g., an antenna), one or more sensors (including, for example, a pressure sensor 716, an accelerometer 718, and a magnetometer 720), a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader 722, and a resistance measurement interface 723. The one or more electronic components may include more, fewer, and / or different electronic components. For example, the one or more electronic components may include additional sensors, including, for example, a wheel speed sensor. As another example, the one or more electronic components may include a memory.

[0250] One or more processors 710 (e.g., a processor) may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), analog circuitry, digital circuitry, combinations thereof, or other processors now known or developed thereafter. The processor 710 may be a single device or a combination of devices, such as through shared or parallel processing.

[0251] The memory may be, for example, an electrically oriented memory or a non-electrically oriented memory. The memory may include one or more of the following: a ROM, a RAM, a flash memory, an EEPROM, or other types of memory. The memory may be removable from the sensor device 702, such as an SD memory card. In a particularly non-limiting exemplary embodiment, a computer-readable medium may include a solid-state memory, such as a memory card or other package housing one or more non-electrically oriented read-only memories. Alternatively, the computer-readable medium may be a random access memory or other electrically rewritable memory. Additionally, the computer-readable medium may include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a magnetic disk or magnetic tape or other storage device. Accordingly, this disclosure is considered to include any one or more of a computer-readable medium and other equivalents and subsequent media in which data or instructions can be stored.

[0252] Memory is a non-transitory computer-readable medium and is described as a single medium. However, the term "computer-readable medium" includes a single medium or multiple media, such as a centralized or distributed memory structure, and / or associated cache memory operable to store one or more instruction sets and other data. The term "computer-readable medium" should also include any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying an instruction set for execution by a processor, or any medium that causes a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0253] One or more power sources 708 include a portable power source that may be stored internally or externally to the sensor device 702 and connected to the sensor device 702 via a power conduction cable. One or more power sources 708 may relate to the generation of electricity, such as using a mechanical generator, a fuel cell device, a photovoltaic cell, a piezoelectric or other power generation device. One or more power sources 708 may include a battery pack (e.g., a coin cell battery pack), such as a device consisting of two or more electrochemical batteries that convert stored chemical energy into electrical energy. One or more power sources 708 may include a combination of multiple battery packs or other power supply devices. Specially adapted or assembled battery pack types or standard battery pack types may be used.

[0254] User interface module 712 may be a user interface that transmits information to a rider. For example, user interface module 712 may be a multi-color LED 712 configured to convey a state of at least one of the sensors (e.g., pressure sensor 650) of sensing device 702. LED 712 may be controlled, for example, by a processor and may be visible to the rider at a radially inward portion of a rim (e.g., rim 500 or rim 122) to which sensing device 702 is attached. LED 712 may be part of a larger user interface that includes one or more additional displays, including, for example, an LCD panel, an LED screen, a TFT screen, or another type of display. This user interface may also include audio capabilities or speakers. In other embodiments, the user interface may also include one or more buttons, a rocker switch, a touchpad, a voice recognition circuit, or another device or component for communicating data between a user and sensing device 702. The user interface may also include a touch screen, which may be capacitive or resistive. The user interface may include additional, fewer, and / or different components.

[0255] Radio frequency unit 714 (e.g., antenna) is a communication device configured to transmit and receive (e.g., via a communication interface) data, such as measurement data (e.g., tire pressure data, wheel speed data, wheel odometer data, wheel tilt and yaw data, product data, road feedback data), wheel rim composite health signals, status signals (e.g., charging status of one or more power supplies 708), LED status indicators, operating signals and / or other signals.

[0256] Radio frequency (RF) unit 714 provides data and / or signal communication from sensor device 702 to another component of the bicycle or to an external device such as a mobile phone or other computing device. RF unit 714 uses any operable connection to transmit data. An operable connection may be a connection in which signals, physical communication content, and / or logical communication content can be transmitted and / or received. An operable connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. RF unit 714 can be configured for wireless communication and therefore includes one or more antennas. RF unit 714 provides wireless communication in any format now known or hereafter developed.

[0257] In one embodiment, the sensor device 702 includes more than one communication device (e.g., a plurality of antennas 714) that communicate with more than one communication interface. These communication interfaces use any operable connection to transmit data. At least one of these communication interfaces can provide wireless communication via one of the plurality of antennas 714, in any format now known or hereafter developed. Wireless communication can be conducted using any technology, protocol, or standard. For example, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (“IEEE”) 802.11 standard, IEEE 802.15.1, or BLUETOOTH® standard and / or ANT™ or ANT+™ standard can be used. However, in some embodiments, wireless communication may be conducted via a proprietary protocol, such as a proprietary protocol operating on top of the physical layer of the IEEE 802.15.4 wireless protocol. While this specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in specific embodiments with reference to particular standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards used for transmission over the Internet and other packet-switched networks (e.g., TCP / IP, UDP / IP, HTML, HTTP, HTTPS) represent current technological paradigms. These standards are periodically replaced by faster or more efficient equivalents with essentially the same functionality. Accordingly, alternative standards and protocols with the same or similar functionality as disclosed herein are considered their equivalents.

[0258] The pressure sensor 716 can be a variety of different types of pressure sensors. For example, the pressure sensor 716 can be a capacitive sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, an optical sensor, a MEMS sensor, a resistive sensor, a liquid-free barometer sensor, a pressure gauge sensor, a vacuum pressure sensor, a sealed pressure sensor, or another type of sensor.

[0259] Accelerometer 718 can be of various types. In one embodiment, accelerometer 718 is a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) accelerometer (e.g., having three sensing axes orthogonal to each other), but other types of accelerometers can be used. Accelerometer 718 can be supported within housing 704 of sensor device 702 (e.g., on PCB 706 of sensor device 702) such that accelerometer 718 is offset (e.g., positioned according to axle angle offset) relative to a radius from the center of one of the rotation axes of one of the wheels 703 on which sensor device 702 is mounted.

[0260] An accelerometer 718 (e.g., a MEMS accelerometer) may have a predefined acceleration range that it can detect. Outside this predefined range, the accelerometer 718 may become saturated and may not provide accurate data. If a radial distance of an accelerometer relative to the center of the axis of rotation of a wheel (e.g., wheel 703) and a diameter of a tire attached to the wheel are known, the centripetal force generated by the rotation of a wheel (e.g., wheel 703) can be used to calculate the ground speed. The centripetal force generated at, for example, a rim of the wheel can saturate an accelerometer positioned such that one of the three sensing axes is radially oriented toward the center of the axis of rotation at typical riding speeds. For example, a MEMS accelerometer with a range of + / -16 g can become saturated at riding speeds above 7 m / s.

[0261] An accelerometer 718 with an axial angle offset will attenuate a value in the radial direction. This attenuation can be defined by the equation Y = X cos(a), where X is a radial acceleration, Y is a measured attenuation value off the axis, and a is the angle by which the axis deviates from the radial line. The axial angle offset allows the MEMS accelerometer 718 to measure wheel speed several times faster than a radially oriented accelerometer, as is typical in the prior art.

[0262] The deviation of the axial angle of the accelerometer 718 from the set point results in a decrease in sensor sensitivity at low speeds. Since the centripetal force increases with the square of the velocity, there may be a velocity above which the increase in sensitivity per unit increase in centripetal force may outweigh the decrease in sensitivity.

[0263] Absolute acceleration readings (e.g., from accelerometer 718) may not provide the most accurate wheel speed measurement because accuracy depends on careful measurement of the radial distance from accelerometer 718 to the axis of rotation, which can vary between different wheel models and between different wheels of the same wheel model. The angle α by which the axis deviates from the radial line can also be accurately determined using the axial angle offset setting of accelerometer 718.

[0264] In one embodiment, processor 710 can use data from accelerometer 718 and the Earth's gravitational acceleration to determine the wheel speed of a wheel (e.g., wheel 703). Processor 710 can determine, based on data from accelerometer 718, when the orientation of accelerometer 718 changes from top to bottom (e.g., a cycle time). Processor 710 can determine the wheel speed based on the determined cycle time and the diameter of a tire attached to the wheel. This avoids the need to accurately measure the radial distance from the sensor to the axis of rotation and the angle α of the axis's deviation from the radial line.

[0265] In one embodiment, for this determination of wheel speed based on the determined cycle time, the data collection frequency of the accelerometer 718 may be at least four times the wheel rotation frequency (e.g., at least four times the maximum wheel rotation frequency), and the sensitivity of the accelerometer 718 may detect acceleration changes better than 1 / 200th of a part.

[0266] Magnetometer 720 can be of various types. In one embodiment, magnetometer 720 is a MEMS magnetometer (e.g., having three sensing axes orthogonal to each other), but other types of magnetometers can be used. Magnetometer 720 can be supported within housing 704 of sensor device 702 (e.g., on PCB 706 of sensor device 702) such that two of the three sensing axes (e.g., X and Y axes) are in the same plane as the wheel (e.g., wheel 703), and one of the sensing axes (e.g., Z axis) is orthogonal to the diameter of the wheel.

[0267] The Earth's background magnetic field exists at a value between 0.25 and 0.65 Gauss in every part of the Earth. This background magnetic field can be sensed by magnetometer 720 at a high frequency. In one embodiment, processor 710 samples magnetometer 720 and therefore the background magnetic field at a rate, for example, twice the previously measured wheel speed and / or rotation frequency. In other embodiments, processor 710 samples magnetometer 720 and therefore the background magnetic field at a greater or lesser rate. For example, processor 710 may sample magnetometer 720 and therefore the background magnetic field at a lower rate when the wheel speed is low (e.g., less than 4 m / s). A lower sampling rate can increase the battery life of battery pack 708.

[0268] As the wheel (e.g., wheel 703) rotates, the polarity of a sensed value of the Earth's background magnetic field, sensed by magnetometer 720, changes between positive and negative (e.g., polarity reversal). For example, the sensed value is positive for one half of a rotation and negative for the other half. Processor 710 can identify and count polarity reversals over time, and calculate the wheel speed of the wheel (e.g., wheel 703) based on the identified polarity reversals over time (e.g., a time interval between two temporally adjacent polarity reversals) and the diameter of the tire attached to the wheel.

[0269] Figures 49A-49C are plots of the magnetometer outputs of each of the three sensing axes over time. Plot 800 illustrates the x-axis, plot 900 illustrates the y-axis, and plot 1000 illustrates the z-axis. These plots illustrate the polarity reversal as the wheel (e.g., wheel 703) rotates. The polarity reversals become closer together as the wheel speed (e.g., wheel 703) increases. Portions 802, 902, and 1002 of these plots show a region of increasing wheel speed. As the wheel speed decreases, the polarity reversals become more separated. Portions 804, 904, and 1004 of these plots show areas of slower wheel speed. In an alternative embodiment, the wheel speed can be determined by calculation and using instantaneous rotational rate and magnetometer measurements. This alternative embodiment allows for faster calculation of a speed value and allows the sensor to enter sleep mode more quickly, thereby saving battery life.

[0270] The memory of a sensor device can, for example, store the most recently calculated wheel speeds of multiple wheels. For instance, the memory can store the most recently calculated wheel speeds of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, or 100 wheels. An older wheel speed can be overwritten with each new calculation.

[0271] In one embodiment, the sampling rate is based on the most recently calculated wheel speed of the wheel. For example, the sampling rate may be twice as fast as the most recently calculated wheel speed (e.g., in revolutions per second). In other embodiments, the sampling rate may be three times, four times, or another multiple as fast as the most recently calculated wheel speed.

[0272] In one embodiment, processor 710 may use data generated by magnetometer 720 to wake up sensor device 702. For example, instead of data from accelerometer 718 representing the motion of the wheel and thus the bicycle to which the wheel is attached, processor 710 may identify a change in magnetic field strength in response to the rotation of the wheel, and processor 710 may wake up other components of sensor device 702 based on the identified change in magnetic field strength.

[0273] The RFID reader 722 can take various forms. For example, the RFID reader 722 can be a near-field communication (NFC) module. The RFID reader 722 can communicate with an RFID chip associated with (e.g., embedded in) a rim to which the sensor device 702 is attached (e.g., rim 724 discussed below). For example, the RFID reader 722 can be configured to receive identification information from the RFID chip associated with the rim to which the sensor device 702 is attached. The processor 710 can, for example, be configured to identify the rim based on the identification information received from the RFID chip. Rim identification can be provided in other ways.

[0274] The resistance measurement interface 723 can take various forms. For example, the resistance measurement interface 723 can be a physical interface of a sensing element (e.g., an insulated conductive wire) and an interface electrically connected to a conductor on the PCB 706. The sensing element can be embedded in a rim (e.g., rim 724 discussed below) to which the sensing device 702 is attached, and can be configured to, for example, forward a change in an electrical characteristic (e.g., resistance, electrical continuity, and / or voltage) within the rim to the processor 710 via the PCB 706. The processor 710 can communicate with the resistance measurement interface 723, for example, via the PCB 706 (e.g., the track of the PCB 706), and can identify a change in resistance within the rim via the sensing element.

[0275] In one embodiment, the resistance measurement interface 723 is a radio frequency unit 714, and the sensing element includes an antenna. Through this antenna, the sensing element can wirelessly transmit a signal to the processor 710 via the radio frequency unit 714 and PCB 706 of the sensing device 702. This transmitted signal may include the following data: a current applied to the sensing device, a measured voltage drop across the sensing device, or a combination thereof.

[0276] Wheel 703 includes a rim 724 (e.g., rim 122 or rim 500). Rim 724 may include one or more components, and sensor device 702 and / or one or more components of sensor device 702 are physically, electrically, and / or fluidly connected to the one or more components. For example, rim 724 may include an integrated pocket 726 (e.g., a socket) in which sensor device 702 is disposed and attached to rim 724 (e.g., as described above with respect to the first embodiment of sensor device 200, the second embodiment of sensor device 300, the third embodiment of sensor device 400, the fourth embodiment of sensor device 516, or a different attachment). Rim 724 may also include a pressure sensing port 728 that fluidly connects sensor device 702 (e.g., pressure sensor 716 of sensor device 702) to a portion of rim 724 (e.g., a tire cavity defined by a radially outer tire engagement portion). The wheel rim 724 may also include an RFID transmitter 730 (e.g., an NFC chip) and a health monitoring element 732 (e.g., a composite health monitoring element). The wheel rim 724 and / or the wheel 703 may include more, fewer, and / or different components.

[0277] The pressure sensing port 728 may include an opening through the rim 724 and a connector (e.g., a ported bolt, such as a ported bolt 260, a ported bolt and a flexible tube, or an air valve, such as an air valve 580) extending through the opening through the rim 724. The ported bolt or air valve is configured, for example, to fluidly connect the sensor device 702 attached to the rim 724 to, for example, a tire cavity. The pressure sensor 716 of the sensor device 702 is configured, for example, to measure a pressure within the tire cavity via, for example, this fluid connection (e.g., including the pressure sensing port 728).

[0278] The RFID transmitter 730 may be an RFID tag integrated with, for example, a wheel rim 724. For instance, the wheel rim 724 may be made of a composite laminate, and the RFID tag 730 may be disposed within (e.g., integrated with) the composite laminate of one of the wheel rims (e.g., wheel rim 724) to which the sensor device 702 is attached. In one embodiment, the RFID transmitter 730 is an NFC tag. In one embodiment, the wheel assembly 700 includes more than one RFID transmitter 730 embedded within, for example, a wheel rim 724.

[0279] The RFID tag 730 may be programmed with unique identification information and may be associated with the rim 724 (e.g., rim 122 or rim 500) in which the RFID tag 730 is embedded. When the sensor device 702 is mounted or attached to the rim 724, for example, a link (e.g., a physical or wireless link) is established between the RFID reader 722 of the sensor device 702 and the RFID tag 730 of the rim 724. The processor 710 of the sensor device 702 may automatically link relevant information from the sensor device 702 (e.g., measured tire pressure, rim composite health) to the rim 724. The processor 710 of the sensor device 702 may make this linked information accessible to a user (e.g., a rider or a mechanic) at a computing device (e.g., a smartphone) via an RFID reader 714. In one embodiment, product registration can be facilitated when a user connects the sensor device to a computing device (e.g., a smartphone or a computer). In another embodiment, the user can select to receive services and product alerts, for example, based on usage information from the sensor device 702 associated with rim 122 or rim 500.

[0280] Currently, users (e.g., riders) can manually track the use of bicycle components. The automatic connection of this embodiment, which associates the rim 724 with a sensor device 702 that may already be associated with the user, allows for tracking of information related to the rim 724 and provides the ability to make recommendations to the user based on data collected from the sensor device 702 connected to the rim 724. Examples of user recommendations may include, for example, when a minimum critical tire pressure has been reached or when a fault in the composite laminate of the rim 724 has been identified. This automatic association and data tracking can be applied to other components on a bicycle, such as, for example, a derailleur or a motor in an e-bike.

[0281] The health monitoring element 732 (e.g., a sensing element) can take various forms. For example, the health monitoring element 732 can be an insulated conductive wire or a wire mesh. The health monitoring element 732 can be embedded in the composite stack of the rim 724, for example, at various locations within the rim 724. For example, the health monitoring element 732 can be disposed in a composite stack forming a portion of a radially outer tire engagement portion of the rim 724 (e.g., within the first tire holding portion 202 or the second tire holding portion 204 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 130 of the rim 122, or within the first tire holding portion 526 or the second tire holding portion 528 of the radially outer tire engagement portion 502 of the rim 500) or forming a portion of a radially inner portion of the rim 724 (e.g., the radially inner portion 136 of the rim 122 or the radially inner portion 510 of the rim 500).

[0282] In one embodiment, the rim 724 includes a plurality of health monitoring elements 732 (e.g., a plurality of sensing elements). The plurality of health monitoring elements 732 may be disposed in various different locations within the rim 724. For example, the plurality of health monitoring elements 732 may include health monitoring elements 732 at different circumferential positions around the rim 724. Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of health monitoring elements 732 may include health monitoring elements 732 at different locations within a cross-section of the rim 724. For example, the plurality of health monitoring elements 732 may include one or more health monitoring elements 732 within the radially outer tire-connecting portion of the rim 724, and one or more health monitoring elements 732 within the radially inner portion of the rim 724.

[0283] The health monitoring element 732 can communicate with the processor 710 of the sensor device 702, for example, via the resistance measurement interface 723 and PCB 706 of the sensor device 702. The processor 710 can identify (e.g., measure) a current and / or a voltage from a signal received at the resistance measurement interface 723, and determine a change in resistance and / or electrical continuity based on the identified current and / or voltage. The processor 710 can compare the determined change in resistance or electrical continuity with a predetermined critical change, and when, based on the comparison, the determined change in resistance is greater than the predetermined critical change, it identifies and reports structural damage to the health monitoring element 732 and consequently to the rim 724.

[0284] In one embodiment where the health monitoring elements 732 are arranged as a wire mesh, the resistance of one of the wire meshes may be known during manufacturing (e.g., a predetermined resistance). The processor may compare the known resistance with a determined resistance (e.g., determine a difference between them). Based on this comparison, when the difference between the determined known resistance and the determined resistance is greater than a predetermined threshold difference, the processor 710 may identify and report structural damage to the health monitoring elements 732 and therefore the wheel rim 724. In other words, the processor 710 may identify and report any deviation from the known manufacturing resistance as structural damage to the wheel rim 724. In one embodiment where the wheel rim 724 includes a plurality of health monitoring elements 732, the processor 710 may monitor the resistance or electrical continuity at each of the plurality of health monitoring elements 732 in parallel.

[0285] In one embodiment, the health monitoring element 732 communicates with other processors via one of its antennas. These other processors are located outside, for example, the wheel rim 724, and are configured to identify and report structural damage to the wheel rim 724 based on changes in resistance determined by the health monitoring element 732.

[0286] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, the methods described herein can be implemented using software executable by a computer system (e.g., a bicycle controller or computer or a rear derailleur), and / or other components on the bicycle and / or worn by the user. Additionally, in an exemplary, non-limiting embodiment, implementation may include distributed processing, component / object distributed processing, and parallel processing. Alternatively, virtual computer system processing may be configured to implement one or more of the methods or functionalities described herein.

[0287] A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, instruction code, or program code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as a standalone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit applicable in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A program may be stored as part of a file containing other programs or data (e.g., one or more instruction codes stored in a markup language file), in a single file dedicated to said program, or in multiple coordinating files (e.g., files containing one or more modules, subroutines, or portions of program code). A computer program can be deployed to execute on a computer, or on multiple computers located at one location or distributed across multiple locations and interconnected by a communications network.

[0288] The processing procedures and logic flows described in this specification can be implemented by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by manipulating input data and generating output. These processing procedures and logic flows can also be implemented, and the device can also be implemented, as a special purpose logic circuit system (e.g., an FPGA or an ASIC).

[0289] When used in this application, the terms "circuit system" or "circuit" mean all of the following: (a) a hardware-only circuit implementation (such as an implementation in an analog and / or digital-only circuit system); and (b) a combination of circuits and software (and / or firmware), such as (where applicable): (i) a combination of processors, or (ii) a portion of processor / software (including digital signal processors, software and memory, which together operate to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions); and (c) a circuit, such as a microprocessor or a portion of a microprocessor, which requires software or firmware to operate, even if the software or firmware does not physically exist.

[0290] This definition of "circuit system" applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claim. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuit system" will also include an implementation having only one processor (or more processors) or a portion of a processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware, as well as other electronic components. The term "circuit system," for example and if applicable to a particular claim element, will also include: a baseband integrated circuit or application processor integrated circuit for a mobile computing device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other network device.

[0291] A processor suitable for executing a computer program includes, for example, both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any type of digital computer. Generally, a processor receives instructions and data from a read-only memory, or a random access memory, or both. The basic components of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer also includes one or more mass storage devices for storing data, or operatively coupled to receive or transfer data from or to them, or both (the mass storage devices are, for example, magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks). However, a computer does not need to have such devices. Furthermore, a computer may be embedded in another device, such as, for example, a mobile phone, a digital assistant ("PDA"), a mobile audio player, a global positioning system ("GPS") receiver, a control unit, a rear gearbox, or a front gear shifter, to name just a few examples. Suitable computer-readable media for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-electrical memory, media, and memory devices, such as: semiconductor memory devices (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices); magnetic disks (e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks); magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM discs. The processor and the memory may be supplemented or incorporated into a special-purpose logic circuit system.

[0292] The embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. These embodiments are not intended to constitute a complete description of all elements and features of devices and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure, allowing for structural and logical substitutions and changes without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, these embodiments are representative only and may not be drawn to scale. Some scales in these embodiments may be enlarged, while others may be minimized. Accordingly, this disclosure and the drawings are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0293] While this specification contains numerous details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention or the content that may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features described in this specification within the context of separate embodiments may also be combined and implemented in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. Furthermore, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even claimed so at the outset, one or more features from a claimed combination may, in some cases, be omitted from that combination, and the claimed combination may be for a sub-combination or a variation thereof.

[0294] Similarly, although operations and / or actions are illustrated in the diagrams and described herein in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring these operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or as requiring all illustrated operations to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multiplexing and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that any illustrated program components and systems may be substantially integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0295] In this document, one or more embodiments of the present disclosure may be referred to individually and / or collectively as "invention," for convenience only and not intended to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Furthermore, while specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent configurations designed to achieve the same or similar purposes may replace the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. Upon review of this description, combinations of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0296] This summary of disclosure is provided to comply with 37 CFR §1.72(b) and is intended not to be construed as limiting the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the foregoing embodiments, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining this disclosure. This disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention to require features beyond those explicitly stated in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention may address all features less than any of those in the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the following claims are incorporated into the embodiments, wherein each claim is independently defined as a separate subject matter.

[0297] The foregoing detailed description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be construed as limited to the described order or elements unless stated otherwise. Therefore, all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the following claims and their equivalents are claimed as part of the invention.

[0298] 8-8, 10-10, 28-28, 30-30: Axis 50: Bicycle 52: Bicycle frame, frame 54: Front wheel, wheel 56: Rear wheel, wheel 58: Drive Chain 60: Front brake 62: Rear brake 64: Seats 66: Seat post 68: Curved handle, handle 70: Brake lever 72: Front sprocket assembly 74: Crank assembly 76: Pedal 78: Rear sprocket assembly 80: Electric rear transmission, rear transmission 82, 84: teeth 85: Front Gear Converter 86: Base components 88: Linkage 90: Movable component 92: Chain guide assembly 93: Cage board 96: Bicycle control device 120: Tires 122,500,724: Wheel rims 124: Spokes 126: Center hub 130,502: Radial outer tire joint portion, tire joint portion 132,504: Spoke receiving surface 134,506: Inner circumference 135,508: Outer circumference 136,510: Spoke joint, radial inner portion 138,512: First sidewall 140: Valve 144,226,236,252,252a,252b,262,284,420,548,572,575,582,660: Opening 146,520: First circumferential position, first position 150, 200, 300, 400, 516, 600, 702: Sensor devices 152,518: Socket 154,524: Second circumferential position, second position 202,526: First tire holding part 204,528: Second tire clamping part 206,514: Second sidewall 208,530: First tire holding wall 210,532: Second tire clamping wall 212,534: Well 214,536: First shelf 216,538: Second shelf 218,540: Transition Zone 220,542: Volume 222,302,402,544,602,704: Housing 224: Battery pack casing, battery pack tray, tray 228,232,550,554: Flange 230,248,304,552,604,672: Cover 234,556: Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 235a,710: Processor 235b: Light Emitting Diode 235c,562: Antenna 235d: Sensor 235e: Power Supply 235F,568: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Reader 238,408: Battery pack 240,410,594: Locking mechanism 241,624,628: Braking part, protrusion 242,308: Inner surface 243: Depression, notch 244: Pressure sensor, sensor 245: Push-out lever, latch 246: Ejection mechanism, retaining pin, ejection pin, locking pin 249,338,802,804,902,904,1002,1004: Partial 250,638: Protruding ear 254,276,292,654,656: Seals 256: Fasteners 260: Fasteners, bolts 264: Enhanced Section 266,294,584: Head 268,288,314,426,428,588: Threaded steel 269,430: Thread opening 270,432:Pathway 272,668: Port 274: Tire cavity, volume 276a, 656a: First seal 276b, 656b: Second seal 282: Bolt 290: Rivet Nut 296: Surface 297,336: Fluid pathways 298,330: Fixed components 299: Flexible Tube 306: Fixed components, bolts 310, 416, 418, 630, 670: Outer surface 312: Shaft 316: Support component 318: Channel 320,662: wall 322: Battery pack casing 324: Battery pack cover 326, 328: Attached morphological bodies 332,706:PCB 334,412,650,716: Pressure sensor 404: Connector 406, 546: Battery pack casing, tray 422: Container 424: Shaft, tube body 434: Internal volume 436: Fluid 522: Balance 555: Spoke receiving hole 557: Connector hole 558: Processor, Microcontroller 560: Light Emitting Diode, LED 564: Sensor 566: Battery pack, power supply 570: Hollow body 574: First Opening 576: Second opening 578: First air passage, air passage, opening 580: Air valve 581: Cap 586: Main trunk 590: Knurled nuts, fasteners 596: Latch mechanism, L-shaped latch, latch 598: Pivot 606: LED 610: Pressure sensor cavity, port 620: First side 622: Second side 626,632: End 634: Battery pack support components 636: Battery pack support surface 640: Electrical Terminals 656c: Third seal 656d: Fourth seal 657: Central pathway, pathway 658: Depressable pin 664: Shelf 666: Second air passage 671,A: Arrow 700: Wheel Assembly 703: Wheel 708: Coin-type battery pack, battery pack, power supply 712: User interface module, multi-color LED, LED 714: Radio frequency device, antenna 718: Accelerometer 720: Magnetometer 722: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Reader 723: Resistance Measurement Interface 726: Integrated Pocket Section 728: Pressure Sensing Port 730: RFID transmitter, RFID tag 732: Health Monitoring Component 800, 900, 1000: Drawing C: Chain F: Front sprocket, sprocket G: Sprocket G1-G8: Rear sprocket, sprocket L: Linkage

Claims

1. A bicycle wheel comprising: a rim including: a radially inner portion disposed along an inner circumference of the rim; a first sidewall; a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall extending radially outward from the radially inner portion; a radially outer tire engagement portion disposed along an outer circumference of the rim, the radially outer tire engagement portion including a first tire holding portion extending away from the first sidewall and a second tire holding portion extending away from the second sidewall, such that the first tire holding portion and the second tire holding portion are spaced apart from each other; and a socket within the radially inner portion; a sensing device including: a housing disposed within the socket such that a portion of the housing forms a portion of the radially inner portion of the rim; and a pressure sensor supported by the housing; an air valve extending through and supported by the housing of the sensing device. The pressure sensor is fluidly connected to a volume between the first tire clamping portion and the second tire clamping portion of the radially outer tire connection portion, such that the pressure sensor is configured to determine a pressure of a fluid within the volume; a hub that can be attached to a bicycle frame; and a plurality of spokes disposed between the hub and the rim.

2. The bicycle wheel of claim 1, wherein the sensor device is attached to the radially outer tire joint via the air valve.

3. The bicycle wheel of claim 1, wherein the sensor further includes a power source supported within the housing, the power source being accessible at the inner circumference of the rim.

4. The bicycle wheel of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a hollow body and a cover attached to the hollow body, the cover forming a portion of the inner circumference of the rim, the cover including an opening for receiving the air valve.

5. The bicycle wheel of claim 4, wherein the housing includes a latch rotatably attached to the hollow body, the latch being rotatable between a first position and a second position, the latch being locked to the hollow body in the second position.

6. The bicycle wheel of claim 5, wherein the sensing device further includes a power source supported within the housing, the power source being removable from the housing when the latch is in the first position.

7. The bicycle wheel of claim 5, wherein the cover of the housing includes a first opening and the latch of the housing includes a second opening, and the air valve extends through the first opening and the second opening.

8. The bicycle wheel of claim 7, wherein one end of the air valve extending through the second opening is attached to the tire engagement portion of the rim.

9. The bicycle wheel of claim 4, wherein the sensing device further includes an indicator supported at or near the cover of the housing and a processor supported on the housing, the processor being electrically connected to the pressure sensor, the battery pack and the indicator, wherein the processor is configured to: compare a determined pressure within the tire cavity with a predetermined pressure range; when, based on the comparison of the determined pressure with the predetermined pressure range, the determined pressure is outside the predetermined pressure range, command the indicator to generate a first color of light; and when, based on the comparison of the determined pressure with the predetermined pressure range, the determined pressure is within the predetermined pressure range, command the indicator to generate a second color of light, the second color being different from the first color.

10. The bicycle wheel of claim 1, wherein the socket within the radially inner portion of the rim is located at a first circumferential position along the inner circumference of the rim, and wherein the bicycle wheel further includes a fitting at a second circumferential position along the inner circumference of the rim, the second circumferential position being different from the first circumferential position.

11. The bicycle wheel of claim 10, wherein the radially inner portion of the rim is made of a composite laminate, the balancing is formed by a first portion of the composite laminate, the socket is located within a second portion of the composite laminate, and the first portion of the composite laminate is thicker than the second portion of the composite laminate.

12. The bicycle wheel of claim 1, wherein a portion of the radially inner portion of the rim surrounding the socket is thicker than other portions of the radially inner portion of the rim.

13. The bicycle wheel of claim 1, wherein the socket is formed by an opening through one of the radially inner portions of the rim, and a first flange extends around the opening, the cover of the housing has a second flange of a predetermined size and shape to interface with the first flange of the socket such that the cover of the housing is flush with the radially inner portion of the rim, and the sensor device is fixed to the rim at the socket.

14. A sensing device configured to determine tire pressure of a wheel of a bicycle, the sensing device comprising: a housing disposed within a socket in a radially inner portion of a rim of the bicycle wheel, such that a portion of the housing forms part of the radially inner portion of the rim, the housing including a first opening and a second opening through which an air valve of the wheel extends; a pressure sensor supported by the housing and configured to be disposed within a cavity formed between the radially inner portion and a radially outer portion of the rim; and a battery pack housing configured to support a battery pack, the battery pack housing being disposed within the housing such that the battery pack is configured to power the pressure sensor when the battery pack is supported within the battery pack housing and the battery pack housing is disposed within the housing.

15. The sensor device of claim 14, wherein the housing comprises: a hollow body; a cover attached to the hollow body, the cover being assembled to form a portion of an inner circumference of the rim; and a latch rotatably attached to the hollow body, the latch being rotatable between an open position and a closed position, the latch being locked relative to the hollow body in the closed position.

16. The sensor device of claim 15, wherein the first opening is in the cover and the second opening is in the latch, and the air valve is received through the first opening and the second opening such that the air valve is attached to the housing of the wheel rim.

17. The sensing device of claim 15, wherein the battery pack can be removed from the housing when the latch is in the open position.

18. The sensor device of claim 15, further comprising a light-emitting diode device supported by the cover and configured to be powered by the battery pack, wherein the light-emitting diode device is configured to: generate a first color of light when a determined pressure is within a predetermined pressure range; and generate a second color of light when the determined pressure is outside the predetermined pressure range, the first color being different from the second color.

19. A rim for a bicycle wheel, the rim comprising: a radially inner portion disposed along an inner circumference of the rim, the radially inner portion being formed of a composite laminate; a first sidewall; a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall extend radially outward from the radially inner portion; a radially outer tire engagement portion disposed along an outer circumference of the rim, the radially outer tire engagement portion extending from the first sidewall and the second sidewall, respectively; a socket located within the radially inner portion at a first circumferential position along the inner circumference of the rim, the socket being configured to receive a sensor device configured to receive a portion of an air valve of the bicycle wheel; and a balance located at a second circumferential position along the inner circumference of the rim, the second circumferential position being different from the first circumferential position, the balance being formed by a first portion of the composite laminate. The socket is located within a second portion of the composite stack, and the first portion of the composite stack is thicker than the second portion of the composite stack.

20. The rim of claim 19, wherein the second circumferential position is relative to the first circumferential position.

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