System and pairing coordinator device for bicycles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for a bicycle and a pairing coordinator device. The system for a bicycle includes a plurality of controller devices. The controller device type is the same for two or more controller devices among the plurality of controller devices. The system includes a pairing coordinator device, which is configured to receive a corresponding device type identifier from each controller device, and to identify the controller device type for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices. Based on the identification of the controller device type, the pairing coordinator device is configured to update the device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices respectively, so that the updated device type identifiers are different from each other. The pairing coordinator device is configured to pair only controller devices with different corresponding device type identifiers among the plurality of controller devices with the pairing coordinator device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for a bicycle. Background Art

[0002] Bicycles include various components that allow a user to control the operation of the bicycle. For example, a bicycle may include a drive train in which one or more gears may be selectively engaged with a drive chain to change pedaling cadence and resistance. Accordingly, a bicycle may include controller devices that receive input from a user to engage the drive chain with different gears. Summary of the invention

[0003] In one example, a system for a bicycle includes a plurality of controller devices. The controller device type is the same for two or more of the plurality of controller devices. The system also includes a pairing coordinator device, which is configured to: receive a corresponding device type identifier from each of the plurality of controller devices; and identify the controller device type for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, respectively. Based on the identification of the controller device type, the pairing coordinator device is also configured to update the device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, respectively, so that the updated device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices are different from each other. The pairing coordinator device is also configured to pair only the controller devices with different corresponding device type identifiers among the plurality of controller devices with the pairing coordinator device, thereby establishing a wireless network, which enables communication between the pairing coordinator device and the controller device.

[0004] In one example, the system further comprises one or more movable components. Each of the one or more movable components is configured to perform at least one corresponding operation on the bicycle. The pairing coordinator device is further configured to: receive a corresponding device type identification from each of the one or more movable components; and pair the one or more movable components to the wireless network, so that the wireless network enables communication between the pairing coordinator device, the controller device, and the one or more movable components.

[0005] In one example, the pairing coordinator device is further configured to generate a list and send the list to the one or more movable components via the wireless network. The list identifies the controller device and the one or more movable components that are paired to the wireless network.

[0006] In one example, each of the plurality of controller devices includes at least one corresponding input element. The paired controller device is configured to send a signal indicating an input received by the input element of the paired controller device, respectively. The one or more movable components are configured to: based on the list received from the pairing coordinator device, in response to the signal received from the paired controller device, respectively identify an operation to be performed.

[0007] In one example, the paired one or more movable components are configured to: determine which of the one or more movable components are to perform which of the operations in response to the signal. Determining which of the one or more movable components are to perform which of the operations in response to the signal includes processing a default allocation set.

[0008] In one example, the movable component of the one or more paired movable components is also configured to: receive the signal from the paired controller device via the wireless network; identify one of the received signals as coming from an assigned controller device among the paired controller devices according to the default assignment set; and perform a corresponding operation in response to the one signal received from the assigned controller device.

[0009] In one example, the pairing coordinator device includes a communication interface configured to receive a modified allocation set. Compared to the default allocation set, the modified allocation set causes the corresponding movable component of the one or more movable components to perform at least one of the operations in response to one or more of the signals from a different one of the controller devices. The pairing coordinator device is configured to send the modified allocation set to the one or more movable components via the wireless network. The one or more movable components are configured to: replace the default allocation set with the modified allocation set; and determine how the one or more movable components perform the operation in response to the signal according to the modified allocation set.

[0010] In one example, the pairing coordinator device is a movable component among the one or more movable components.

[0011] In one example, the one or more movable components include: a front derailleur configured to modify a position of a bicycle chain of the bicycle relative to a first gear set of the bicycle; a rear derailleur configured to modify a position of the bicycle chain relative to a second gear set of the bicycle; a seat tube assembly configured to modify a position of a seat of the bicycle relative to a frame of the bicycle; or any combination thereof.

[0012] In one example, the device type identification is updated based on a time sequence in which the pairing coordinator device receives the corresponding device type identifications from the two or more controller devices.

[0013] In one example, the identification of the controller device type for the two or more controller devices includes: comparing the received corresponding device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices with predetermined device type identifiers or predetermined device type identifier ranges, respectively; and identifying the controller device type when the received corresponding device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices are the same as the predetermined device type identifier or within the predetermined device identifier range.

[0014] In one example, the received corresponding device type identification has a numerical value, the predetermined device type identification has a numerical value, and the predetermined device type identification range represents a numerical value range.

[0015] In one example, the controller device type is a first controller device type. The plurality of controller devices include two or more second controller devices. The two or more second controller devices are of a second controller device type. The second controller device type is different from the first controller device type.

[0016] In one example, the first controller device type is one of an assignable single-button controller and an assignable two-button controller, and the second controller device type is the other of the assignable single-button controller and the assignable two-button controller.

[0017] In one example, the pairing coordinator device is further configured to receive a corresponding device type identifier from each of the plurality of second controller devices. The pairing coordinator device is further configured to identify the second controller device type for the plurality of second controller devices based on the device type identifier received from the plurality of second controller devices. Based on the identification of the second controller device type, the pairing coordinator device is further configured to update the device type identifiers for the plurality of second controller devices, respectively, so that the updated device type identifiers for the plurality of second controller devices are different from each other. The pairing coordinator device is also configured to pair only the second controller devices with different corresponding device type identifiers to the wireless network, respectively, so that the wireless network enables communication between the pairing coordinator device, the first controller device, and the second controller device.

[0018] In one example, the updating of the device type identification for the two or more controller devices includes storing the updated device type identification at the two or more controller devices, respectively.

[0019] In one example, a pairing coordinator device for a bicycle includes a communication interface configured to communicate with a plurality of controller devices. The controller device type is the same for two or more of the plurality of controller devices. The communication interface is configured to receive a corresponding device type identifier from each of the plurality of controller devices. The pairing coordinator device also includes one or more processors in communication with the communication interface. The one or more processors are configured to establish a pairing session via the communication interface, the pairing session allowing the plurality of controller devices to be paired to a wireless network. The establishment of the pairing session includes identifying the controller device type for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, respectively. Based on the identification of the controller device type, the establishment of the pairing session also includes updating the device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, respectively, so that the updated device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices are different from each other. The establishment of the pairing session also includes pairing only the controller devices with different corresponding device type identifiers among the plurality of controller devices with the pairing coordinator device, thereby establishing the wireless network, the wireless network enabling communication between at least the pairing coordinator device and the controller device.

[0020] In one example, the device type identification is updated based on a time sequence in which the pairing coordinator device receives the corresponding device type identifications from the two or more controller devices.

[0021] In one example, the pairing session is a first pairing session, the wireless network is a first wireless network, the time sequence is a first time sequence, and the updated device type identifier is a first updated device type identifier. The one or more processors are also configured to establish a second pairing session via the communication interface that allows the plurality of controller devices to pair to a second wireless network. The establishment of the second pairing session is subsequent to the establishment of the first pairing session. The establishment of the second pairing session includes receiving a corresponding device type identifier from each of the plurality of controller devices in a second time sequence via the communication interface. The second time sequence is different from the first time sequence. The establishment of the second pairing session also includes identifying the controller device type for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, respectively; and based on the identification of the controller device type, updating the first updated device type identifier for the two or more controller devices, respectively, thereby generating a second updated device type identifier for the two or more controller devices, respectively. The second updated device type identifier is different from the first updated device type identifier. The establishment of the second pairing session also includes pairing only controller devices of the plurality of controller devices having different corresponding device type identifiers with the pairing coordinator device, thereby establishing the second wireless network, which enables communication between at least the pairing coordinator device and the controller device.

[0022] In one example, a controller device for a bicycle includes an input element configured to receive input from a user of the bicycle. The controller device also includes a communication interface in communication with the input element. The communication interface is configured to wirelessly communicate with a pairing coordinator device of the bicycle and one or more movable components of the bicycle. The controller device also includes a memory in communication with the communication interface. The memory is configured to store an assignable device type identifier. The assignable device type identifier identifies the controller device as an assignable controller device. The controller device also includes one or more processors in communication with the memory and the communication interface, the one or more processors being configured to send the assignable device type identifier to the pairing coordinator device via the communication interface after a pairing session is initiated by the pairing coordinator device. The one or more processors are also configured to receive a new device type identifier from the pairing coordinator device via the communication interface. The new device type identifier is different from the assignable device type identifier. The one or more processors are also configured to: store the new device type identifier by the memory; and pair the controller device to a wireless network established by the pairing coordinator device based on the new device type identifier. The wireless network enables communication between the controller device, the pairing coordinator device, and the one or more movable components. The one or more processors are configured to generate a signal in response to an input received from a user of the bicycle at the input element and transmit the generated signal to the one or more movable components via the communication interface and the wireless network. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1A Shown is a right side view of an example road bicycle in which aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented.

[0024] Figure 1B Shows Figure 1A Schematic diagram of a handlebar assembly and other components coupled to the handlebar assembly of an example road bicycle shown in .

[0025] Figure 1C Shows Figure 1A Side view of the front derailleur of the example road bicycle shown in .

[0026] Figure 1D Shows Figure 1A Side view of the rear derailleur of the example road bicycle shown in .

[0027] Figure 1E Shown is a right drop bar. Figure 1A Side view of a first controller device for an example road bicycle shown in FIG.

[0028] Figure 2A Shown is a right side view of an example mountain bicycle in which aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented.

[0029] Figure 2B Shows Figure 2A Schematic diagram of an example mountain bicycle handlebar assembly and other components coupled to the handlebar assembly shown in .

[0030] Figure 2C Shows Figure 2A A side view of the seat tube assembly of an example mountain bicycle shown in FIG. 4 with a saddle mounted thereon.

[0031] Figure 3 Example systems for controlling different combinations of operation-enacting devices on a bicycle are shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 4A An example scenario is shown in which an operation execution device responds to a signal from a controller device according to a first set of assignments according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 4B An example scenario is shown in which an operation execution device responds to a signal from a controller device according to a second allocation set according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 4C An example scenario is shown in which an operation execution device responds to a signal from a controller device according to a third allocation set in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of establishing a wireless network between a controller device and an operation execution device of a bicycle.

[0036] Figure 6 A flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of controlling an operation implementing device of a bicycle.

[0037] Figure 7 A flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of modifying a default or current set of assignments for bicycles.

[0038] Figure 8 A flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of establishing a wireless network between an assignable controller device and an operation execution device of a bicycle.

[0039] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B An exemplary setup is shown Figure 8 A flow chart of a method for a wireless network.

[0040] Fig.10 Shows Figure 8 A first exemplary specified flow chart of the default reaction of the method.

[0041] Fig.11 Shows Figure 8 A second exemplary specified flow chart of the default reaction of the method.

[0042] Fig.12 A flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method of indicating which controller button has been pressed in a mobile device application.

[0043] Fig.13 A visual representation of the user experience of a method in a mobile device application that indicates which controller button has been pressed.

[0044] Other aspects and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein will become apparent in view of the following detailed description, in which similar or identical structures have similar reference numerals. Various embodiments of the present invention will be described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings and descriptions given herein are provided for illustration only and do not limit the present invention as defined by the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] According to aspects of the present disclosure, embodiments provide systems, devices, and methods for controlling components on a bicycle. Embodiments employ multiple controller devices that receive input from a user to control an operation execution device on a bicycle. The operation execution device typically includes at least one movable component that is configured to modify the operating state of the bicycle. The controller device and the operation execution device are paired with a wireless network. When a specific controller device receives input from a user, the specific controller device sends a corresponding signal to the operation execution device paired with the network. Embodiments employ a distribution set to determine which (if any) of the operation execution devices respond to signals from a specific controller device. The distribution set can be modified by a user according to user preferences. In other words, embodiments provide a reconfigurable control system for components of a bicycle.

[0046] In the prior art, only one bicycle component of each type of bicycle component can be paired with the bicycle's wireless network (e.g., system) at a given time. Each component has a unique device type, and if you try to pair with multiple components of the same type, only one of those components will be functional.

[0047] However, the development of assignable controllers provides that all components on a bicycle may not be unique. Multiple assignable controllers may be added to a bicycle based on the rider's preference. For example, instead of having a unique left shifter and a unique right shifter, two identical shifters may be used for the left and right shifters, respectively. Thus, multiple identical components may be paired with the system.

[0048] This embodiment provides that each assignable controller can be distinguished from other assignable controllers. Each assignable controller can be distinguished from other assignable controllers based on, for example, the order in which the assignable controllers are paired with the system. Each assignable controller has a different default response and can be configured individually.

[0049] According to the present embodiment, each of the assignable controllers may have a dynamic device type assigned to the corresponding assignable controller at the time of pairing. Each of the assignable controllers may be programmed with an assignable device type at the time of manufacture or after manufacture. When the corresponding assignable controller is paired with the pairing coordinator device, the pairing coordinator device checks the programmed device type to determine whether the programmed device type is an assignable device type. If the programmed device type is an assignable device type, the pairing coordinator device programs the corresponding assignable controller with the new device type. The new device type is assigned based on the assignable device type (e.g., a single-button controller or a dual-button controller) and the order in which the assignable controllers are paired with the system (e.g., in increasing numerical order).

[0050] After all assignable controllers have been paired with the system and the pairing session is closed, the pairing coordinator device uses the list to specify default reactions. The default reactions are mapped to assignable device types. For example, a first assignable controller of the assignable controllers that is first paired with the system has a default reaction for an outboard shift of a rear derailleur of a bicycle, and a second assignable controller of the assignable controllers (which is paired with the system immediately after the first assignable controller) has a default reaction for an inboard shift of a rear derailleur.

[0051] All controllers of the bicycle paired with the system, including all assignable controllers, can be reconfigured using, for example, a mobile device application. When a user opens the mobile device application, the user can see representations of multiple controllers communicating within the bicycle's system, including representations of assignable controllers and representations of non-assignable (e.g., standard) controllers paired with the system.

[0052] Each representation of a standard controller within the system has a unique appearance (e.g., name and / or illustration) so that a user can easily identify the components (e.g., rear derailleur, front derailleur) configured within, for example, a mobile device application. However, the representations of the assignable controllers within the mobile device application may not clearly indicate which of the assignable controllers correspond to which representations within the mobile device application.

[0053] For example, if a user builds a bicycle with two standard controllers and two assignable controllers, when the user opens the mobile device application, the user may see representations of the four devices. Although the two standard controllers are identifiable by the corresponding unique representations, the user may not be able to identify which assignable controller corresponds to which representation or icon within the mobile device application.

[0054] The present embodiment provides a method in which a correspondence between an assignable controller on a bicycle and a representation within a mobile device application can be determined. A user can interact with an input device (e.g., a button) on the corresponding assignable controller, and in response to the user's interaction with the corresponding assignable controller, the corresponding representation within the mobile device application is highlighted within the mobile device application.

[0055] When a user interacts with the input device of the corresponding assignable controller (e.g., presses a button of the corresponding assignable controller), the corresponding assignable controller sends the device type and button mask of the corresponding assignable controller to all receivers of the system. For example, the corresponding assignable controller sends a button message including the device type and button mask of the corresponding assignable controller to the bridge device of the bicycle in response to the button press. The bridge device caches (or buffers) the device type and button mask of the corresponding assignable controller. The bridge device sends a notification to the mobile device application. The notification identifies that the new controller has sent a button message. In response to the notification, the mobile device application queries the bridge device for information about the new controller (e.g., the corresponding assignable controller). In response to the query, the bridge device sends the cached device type and button mask corresponding to the corresponding assignable controller to the mobile device application. The mobile device application highlights (e.g., lights up) a representation displayed within the mobile device application based on the device type and button mask received from the bridge device.

[0056] The disclosed bicycle component control distinguishes between identical components on a bicycle (e.g., shifters) and allows for the assignment of default reactions. Such assignment of default reactions can eliminate the need for user interaction with a mobile device application during bicycle system setup. Furthermore, the user can easily identify identical components within the mobile device application, such as by interacting with a button on the component; the user can then configure controls, check battery status, and perform maintenance without having to guess which controller corresponds to which representation within the mobile device application.

[0057] These and other objects, features and advantages of the disclosed bicycle component control will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reading this disclosure. In all figures using the same reference numerals, the same reference numerals represent the same or substantially similar parts in the various disclosed examples. In addition, specific examples utilizing specific combinations of the disclosed aspects, features and components of the present disclosure are disclosed and described herein. However, in other examples not disclosed or described herein, each disclosed aspect, feature and / or component of the present disclosure may be used independently or in different combinations with other aspects, features and components of the aspects, features and assemblies of the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 1A A right side view of an example road bicycle 100 is shown. The bicycle 100 includes a frame 102, a front wheel 104, a rear wheel 106, and a drive train 108. The front wheel 104 and the rear wheel 106 are rotatably coupled to the frame 102. The bicycle includes a front brake 110 for braking the front wheel 104 and a rear brake 112 for braking the rear wheel 106. To allow a user to maneuver the bicycle 100, the bicycle 100 includes a handlebar assembly 114 attached to the frame 102.

[0059] Figure 1B A schematic diagram depicting the handlebar assembly 114 and other components coupled to the handlebar assembly 114 is shown. Figure 1A and / or Figure 1B As shown, the handlebar assembly 114 includes a right handlebar 114a and a right handlebar 114b to accommodate the right and left hands of the user, respectively. In addition, the bicycle 100 includes a first or right controller device 120 coupled to the right handlebar 114a. The first controller device 120 includes a first or right brake lever 116 to allow the user to operate the rear brake 112. Accordingly, the bicycle 100 includes a second or left controller device 122 coupled to the left handlebar 114b. The second controller device 122 includes a second or left brake lever 118 to allow the user to operate the front brake 110. The first controller device 120 and the second controller device 122 can be the same controller device (e.g., an interchangeable assignable control device).

[0060] like Figure 1A , Figure 1C and Figure 1D As shown, the transmission system 108 includes a transmission chain 108a, a front crank 108b, a front chain ring 108c, a front gear changer (e.g., an electromechanical front derailleur 108d), a rear sprocket 108e, and a rear gear changer (e.g., an electromechanical rear derailleur 108f). The front chain ring 108c is coupled to the front crank 108b. The diameter and number of teeth on the front sprocket 108c may be different from each other. The rear sprocket 108e is coaxially mounted to the rear wheel 106. The diameter and number of teeth on the rear sprocket 108e may gradually decrease from left to right (e.g., relative to the frame 102, so that the smallest of the sprockets 108 is located at the outermost side relative to the frame 102). Alternatively, the diameter and number of teeth on the rear sprocket 108e may gradually decrease from right to left (e.g., relative to the frame 102). The chain 108a engages the selected chain ring 108c and the selected sprocket 108e.

[0061] To drive the bicycle 100, the user can pedal to rotate the front crank 108b relative to the frame 102. The rotation of the front crank 108b causes the selected chain ring 108c to rotate and the chain 108a to move through the drive train 108. The movement of the chain 108a causes the selected sprocket 108e and thus the rear wheel 106 to rotate accordingly. The rotation of the rear wheel 106 against the ground can propel the bicycle 100 in the forward direction. In addition, the front / forward orientation and movement of the bicycle 100 are indicated by the direction of the arrow "A". Other terms related to direction can be used. For example, the terms "inboard" and "outboard" and "left" and "right" can be used. The terms "right" and "left" and "inboard" and "outboard" describe the position between components or items or the vertical plane that substantially bisects the bicycle or the direction toward or away from the vertical plane that substantially bisects the bicycle 100. In addition, terms such as "front" and "rear" refer to bicycle mechanisms that are conventionally mounted to a bicycle, and the bicycle is oriented in the forward direction.

[0062] The selected chain ring 108c and the selected sprocket 108e in combination determine the gear ratio for driving the bicycle 100. Operation of the front derailleur 108d allows the user to change the selected chain ring 108c engaged by the chain 108a. For example, the front derailleur 108d can be actuated to move the chain 108a from one chain ring 108c to the left or right to another chain ring 108c. The front derailleur 108d is shown as a radio-actuated front derailleur mounted to the frame 102. The front derailleur 108d can include a base member 108g mounted to the frame 102 of the bicycle 100 and a chain guide assembly 108h or cage movably connected to the base member 108g by a front linkage mechanism 108i in the form of a parallelogram, for example. A front power source 108j (e.g., a removable battery) can be mounted on the front derailleur 108d. The front power source 108j can supply power to the front motor unit 108k. The front motor unit 108k is configured to supply torque to components of the front derailleur 108d to move the chain guide assembly 108h relative to the front base member 108g so that the front derailleur 108d can shift the chain 108a between the front sprockets 108c.

[0063] At the same time, operation of the rear derailleur 108f allows the user to change the selected sprocket 108e engaged by the chain 108a. For example, the rear derailleur 108f can be actuated to shift the chain 108a from one sprocket 108e to the left or right to another sprocket 108e. The rear derailleur 108f is shown as a radio-actuated rear derailleur mounted to the frame 102. The rear derailleur may include a base member 108l (e.g., a b-knuckle) mounted to the frame 102 of the bicycle 100. The linkage 108m may include two links 108n pivotally connected to the base member 108l. The movable member 108o (e.g., a p-knuckle) may be connected to the linkage 108m. The chain guide assembly 108q or cage may be configured to engage the chain 108a and maintain tension in the chain 108a, and may be pivotally connected to a portion of the movable member 108o.

[0064] The motor unit 108r and the rear power supply 108s (e.g., a removable battery) are provided on the rear derailleur 108f. The rear power supply 108s supplies power to the motor unit 108r. In the present embodiment, the motor unit 108r is provided in the movable member 108o. Alternatively, the motor unit 108r may be provided in one of the links 108n or in the base member 108l. The motor unit 108r may include a motor and a gear transmission. The motor unit 108r may be coupled to the linkage 108m to laterally move the cage 108q and thereby shift the chain 108a between the rear sprockets 108e.

[0065] Reference Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1E In order to allow the user to operate the front derailleur 108d or the rear derailleur 108f, the first controller device 120 and the second controller device 122 respectively include a first electrical switch 120c and a second electrical switch 122c actuated by a first input element and a second input element (e.g., a first shift lever 120a and a second shift lever 122a). The first shift lever 120a is configured to receive a right input from the user's right hand and actuate the first electrical switch 120c. The second shift lever 122a is configured to receive a left input from the user's left hand and actuate the second electrical switch 122c. The first shift lever 120a may be positioned behind the first brake lever 116, and the second shift lever 122a may be positioned behind the second brake lever 118.

[0066] In order to provide the right input to the first shift lever 120a, the user can manually apply pressure on the right side of the first shift lever 120a. In response, the first shift lever 120a can be pivoted from the initial resting position to the shift actuation position around the first shift lever axis L1. The first shift lever 120a can be biased with a spring or the like so that when the user no longer applies manual pressure, the first shift lever 120a returns to the initial resting position. Similarly, in order to provide the left input to the second shift lever 122a, the user can manually apply pressure on the left side of the second shift lever 122a. In response, the second shift lever 122a can be pivoted from the initial resting position to the shift actuation position around the second shift lever axis L2 (not shown). The second shift lever 122a can be biased with a spring or the like so that when the user no longer applies manual pressure, the second shift lever 122a returns to the left starting position.

[0067] The first controller device 120 and the second controller device 122 include a first controller processor 120e and a second controller processor 122e, respectively. The first controller processor 120e and the second controller processor 122e electronically process manual inputs received by the first shift lever 120a and the second shift lever 122a, respectively. For example, the right input triggers the first controller communication interface 120d to wirelessly send the first shift signal 120b, while the left input triggers the second controller communication interface 122d to wirelessly send the second shift signal 122b. Accordingly, the front derailleur 108d and the rear derailleur 108f include a communication interface and a processor configured to receive and electronically process the first shift signal 120b and / or the second shift signal 122b to determine a specified response.

[0068] In the first scenario, the user provides a right input via the first shift lever 120a, but does not provide a left input via the second shift lever 122a. In response, the first controller device 120 sends a first shift signal 120b, while the left controller device 122 does not send a signal. When the rear derailleur 108f receives the first shift signal 120b without the second shift signal 122b, the rear derailleur 108f shifts the chain 108a to the right to engage the next smaller sprocket 108e or performs a downshift. Meanwhile, when the front derailleur 108d receives the first shift signal 120b without the second shift signal 122b, the front derailleur 108d remains idle.

[0069] In the second scenario, the user provides a left input via the second shift lever 122a, but does not provide a right input via the right shift lever 120a. In response, the second controller device 122 sends a second shift signal 122b, while the first controller device 120 does not send a signal. When the rear derailleur 108f receives the second shift signal 122b without the first shift signal 120b, the rear derailleur 108f shifts the chain 108a to the left to engage the next larger sprocket 108e or perform an upshift. Meanwhile, when the front derailleur 108d receives the second shift signal 122b without the second shift signal 120b, the front derailleur 108d remains idle.

[0070] In the third scenario, the user provides a right input via the first shift lever 120a and a left input via the second shift lever 122a at the same time. In response, the first controller device 120 sends a first shift signal 120b, and the second controller device 122 sends a second shift signal 122b. When the rear derailleur 108f receives the first shift signal 120b and the second shift signal 122b simultaneously or within a certain period of time, the rear derailleur 108f remains idle. At the same time, when the front derailleur 108d receives the first shift signal 120b and the second shift signal 122b simultaneously or within a certain period of time, the front derailleur 108d shifts the chain 108a to the left or right to engage different chain rings 108c. In some cases, the transmission system 108 includes only two chain rings 108c, so the simultaneous right input and left input cause the chain 108a to alternate between the two chain rings 108c. Other configurations can be provided.

[0071] In some embodiments, a user can manually apply pressure to the first shift lever 120a and / or the second shift lever 122a for different amounts of time. For example, without applying pressure to the second shift lever 122a, the user can apply continuous pressure to hold the first shift lever 120a in the left final position for a period of time exceeding a threshold amount of time (e.g., about one second). In response, the first controller device 120 sends the first shift signal 120b for a corresponding amount of time (e.g., until the user releases pressure on the first shift lever 120a). When the rear derailleur 108f receives the first shift signal 120b, the rear derailleur 108f determines that the first shift signal 120b exceeds the threshold amount of time. In response, rather than simply shifting the chain 108a to the right to engage the next sprocket 108e, the rear derailleur 108f repeatedly shifts the chain 108a to the right across the plurality of sprockets 108e until the user releases pressure on the first shift lever 120a and the first shift signal 120b stops, or until the chain 108a reaches the rightmost sprocket 108e. Alternatively, in order to repeatedly shift the chain 108a to the left across the plurality of sprockets 108e, the user may apply continuous pressure to the left shift lever 122a for a period exceeding a threshold amount of time.

[0072] like Figure 1A to Figure 1B As shown, the first controller device 120 and the second controller device 122 use the first shift lever 120a and the second shift lever 122a as corresponding input elements to generate corresponding wireless shift signals 120b, 122b to actuate the front derailleur 108d and the rear derailleur 108f. However, alternative embodiments may include controller devices that control the front derailleur and / or the rear derailleur in different configurations. For example, a bicycle may include an aerobar with a button instead of a curved handlebar with a shift lever, in which the button is used as an input element that can be pressed by a user to generate a wireless signal that can be received and processed by the front derailleur and the rear derailleur. Moreover, although some controller devices can be connected to the handlebar assembly, other controller devices can be connected to other areas of the bicycle, such as various positions on the entire frame of the bicycle. In addition, other types of controller devices can be provided. For example, a unified shifter device can be used, in which a user can press one or more buttons on the mounting box to send a signal to control the front derailleur and / or the rear derailleur. Alternatively, a pedal sensor may be used to receive input from the user via the user's pedaling action, and the front and / or rear derailleur may respond to signals from the pedal sensor (eg, select a gear to maintain a desired cadence or pedal resistance).

[0073] Although Figure 1A to Figure 1B The example bicycle 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a road bicycle, but aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented with any type of bicycle. For example, Figure 2A A right side view of an example mountain bicycle 200 is shown. Bicycle 200 includes frame 202, front wheel 204, rear wheel 206, drive train 208, front disc brake 210, and rear disc brake 212. Drive train 208 includes chain 208a, front crank 208b, front chain ring 208c, rear sprocket 208e, and rear derailleur 208f, which operate in a manner similar to the corresponding components of drive train 108 described above.

[0074] Compared to bicycle 100, bicycle 200 includes other operation-performing devices, such as a seat tube assembly 226 (eg, a height-adjustable seat tube assembly), a front suspension system 230, and a rear suspension system 232. Figure 2A and Figure 2C , the seat tube assembly 226 is shown as a wireless, electrically actuated seat tube assembly 226 that allows for dynamic adjustment of the position of the seat 228. For example, the adjustable seat tube assembly 226 may include an operable valve (not shown) that allows the seat 228 to be lowered to a lower height during riding to change the position of the user relative to the frame 202 and achieve better handling. The seat tube assembly 226 includes a first tube or lower tube 226a and a second tube or upper tube 226b (e.g., two tubes). The two tubes 226a, 226b are movable relative to each other to establish the height of the seat 228 relative to the frame 202. The head 226c is fixed to the top of the second tube 226b. The seat tube motor unit 226d is mounted to the head 226c, and the power supply 226e (e.g., a removable battery) is attached to the motor unit 226d. The motor unit 226d may include a motor and a gear transmission. The power supply 226e may provide power to the seat tube motor unit 226d. The seat tube motor unit 226d is configured to supply torque to the components of the seat tube assembly 226 to open and close the operable valves.

[0075] The front suspension system 230 is shown as a wireless, electrically actuated front suspension system that allows for dynamic adjustment of the suspension characteristics at the front wheel 204. In addition, the rear suspension system 232 is shown as a wireless, electrically actuated rear suspension system that allows for dynamic adjustment of the suspension characteristics at the rear wheel 206. The front suspension system 230 and the rear suspension system 232 may also include a power source (such as a battery) that supplies power to the front suspension motor unit and the rear suspension motor unit (e.g., motor unit), respectively. The motor unit may be configured to supply torque to components of the front suspension system 230 and the rear suspension system 232, respectively, to open and close one or more valves to change various suspension characteristics.

[0076] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B, the bicycle 200 includes a first or right controller device 220 and a second or left controller device 222. In one embodiment, the first controller device 220 and the second controller device 222 are the same controller device (e.g., assignable controllers). The first controller device 220 and the second controller device 222 include a first electrical switch 220c and a second electrical switch 222c actuated by a first input element and a second input element (e.g., a first shift lever 220a and a second shift lever 222a), respectively. The handlebar assembly 214 includes a flat handle or a riser bar, rather than a curved handlebar. In this way, the first controller device 220 is connected to the right side of the flat handle or the riser bar, and the second controller device 222 is connected to the left side of the flat handle or the riser bar. In addition, the bicycle 200 may include a seat tube controller device 234, a front suspension controller device 236, and a rear suspension controller device 238 connected to the handlebar assembly 214.

[0077] The user can operate the first shift lever 220a and / or the second shift lever 222a as described above to generate the first shift signal 220b and / or the second shift signal 222b, respectively. Similar to the bicycle 100, the first shift signal 220b and / or the second shift signal 222b can be used to control the rear derailleur 208f. In order to allow the user to adjust the height of the seat tube assembly 226, the seat tube controller device 234 includes a seat tube electrical switch 234c, which is actuated by a seat tube input element 234c (e.g., a lever or button).

[0078] In order to allow the user to adjust the characteristics of the front suspension system 230 and the rear suspension system 232, the front suspension controller device 236 and the rear suspension controller device 238 include a front suspension electrical switch 236c and a rear suspension electrical switch 238c respectively actuated by a suspension input element 236a and a suspension input element 238a (e.g., a joystick or button). Alternatively, the adjustable seat tube assembly 226, the adjustable front suspension system 230 and the adjustable rear suspension system 232 can also be configured to receive the first shift signal 220b and / or the second shift signal 222b, so that these devices can also be controlled by the operation of the first shift lever 220a and / or the second shift lever 222a.

[0079] The seat tube controller device 234, the front suspension controller device 236, and the rear suspension controller device 238 include processors 234e, 236e, and 238e, respectively. The processors 234e, 236e, and 238e electrically process manual inputs received by the seat tube input element 234a, the front suspension input element 236a, and the rear suspension input element 238a, respectively. The manual input received by the seat tube input element 234a triggers the seat tube controller communication interface 234d to wirelessly transmit the seat tube signal 234b. The manual input received by the front suspension input element 236a triggers the front suspension controller communication interface 236d to wirelessly transmit the front suspension signal 236b, and the manual input received by the rear suspension input element 238a triggers the rear suspension controller communication interface 238d to wirelessly transmit the rear suspension signal 238b. Accordingly, the seat tube assembly 226 includes a communication interface and a processor configured to receive and electronically process the seat tube signal 234b to determine a specified response. The front suspension system 230 includes a communication interface and a processor configured to receive and electronically process the front suspension signal to determine a specified response, and the rear suspension system 232 includes a communication interface and a processor configured to receive and electronically process the rear suspension signal to determine a specified response.

[0080] Figures 1A to 1E and FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C The present invention shows how various controller devices can be used to wirelessly transmit control signals to different combinations of operation execution devices. Any technology, protocol, or standard can be used to wirelessly transmit signals from the controller device. For example, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers ("IEEE") 802.11 standard, IEEE 802.15.1, or Standard and / or ANT TM or ANT+ TM standard. However, in some embodiments, the control signals may be transmitted wirelessly via a dedicated protocol, such as a protocol operating on top of the physical layer of the IEEE 802.15.4 wireless protocol. The use of a dedicated protocol can enhance security by limiting access to the wireless network to devices that are specifically configured to communicate under the dedicated protocol. Therefore, this can reduce the possibility of unwanted interference from other wireless devices. The bicycle 100 includes a network coordinator device 124 (e.g., a pairing coordinator device), which can be configured to establish and manage wireless communications between various devices, as described in further detail below. Similarly, the bicycle 200 includes a network coordinator device 224. Alternatively, one of the controller devices or operation execution devices on the bicycle can be a network coordinator (e.g., a rear derailleur).

[0081] Figure 3An example system 300 for controlling different combinations of operation execution devices (e.g., movable parts) on a bicycle is shown. The system 300 includes a plurality of controller devices 302. Each controller device 302 includes at least one corresponding input element 302a configured to receive input from a user. For example, as described above, the controller device 302 may include a first controller device coupled to the right side of the handlebar assembly and a second controller device coupled to the left side of the handlebar assembly, wherein the corresponding shift lever is used as the input element 302a. Generally, the input element 302a may include any kind of shifter, button, clicker, switch, other switching device, sensor (e.g., pedal sensor, etc.), and the like. A single controller device 302 may also include more than one input element 302a (e.g., two shift levers, multiple buttons, etc.). In one embodiment, the first controller device and the second controller device are controller devices of the same type (e.g., the same or identical shifter).

[0082] The system 300 also includes a plurality of operation execution devices 304 (e.g., movable components). Each of the plurality of operation execution devices 304 is configured to execute at least one corresponding operation on the bicycle. For example, the operation execution device 304 may include a front derailleur, a rear derailleur, a height adjustable seat tube assembly, a front suspension system, and / or a rear suspension system as described above. Each operation execution device 304 may include at least one movable component 311 configured to modify the operating state of the bicycle or may be a movable component 311. In some cases, the operation execution device 304 may act on more than one component of the bicycle in a single operation. In other cases, a single operation may include more than one action acting on one or more components of the bicycle. In other cases, the operation may include a physical action and a wireless action, wherein the wireless action sends a wireless signal to cause further action of other cooperating devices.

[0083] The system 300 also includes a network coordinator device 306 (e.g., a pairing coordinator device). The network coordinator device 306 includes a first communication interface 306a, which is configured to wirelessly communicate with multiple controller devices 302 and multiple operation execution devices 304. Using the first communication interface 306a, the network coordinator device 306 can establish a wireless network 308 that enables communication between the network coordinator device 306, the controller devices 302, and the operation execution devices 304. Accordingly, each of the multiple controller devices 302 includes a communication interface 302c, and each of the multiple operation execution devices 304 includes a communication interface 304a for communicating with other devices on the wireless network 308 (e.g., receiving and sending data / signals). Although the network coordinator device 306 is Figure 3306 may be presented as a separate device, but in alternative embodiments, the features of the network coordinator device 306 may be provided by one or more of the other controller devices 302 and / or the operation execution devices 304 (such as a rear derailleur).

[0084] Figure 5 A method 500 is shown for establishing a wireless network between a network coordinator device, a controller device, and an operation execution device and establishing a default allocation set that determines how the operation execution device performs operations in response to signals received from the controller device. The actions of the method presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, the method may be implemented with one or more additional actions not described and / or without one or more actions discussed. Additionally, in Figure 5 The order in which the actions of the methods are illustrated and described below is not intended to be limiting.

[0085] In some embodiments, the method may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit configured to process information, an analog circuit configured to process information, a state machine, and / or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices include one or more devices that perform some or all of the actions of the method in response to instructions electronically stored on an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices are configured by hardware, firmware, and / or software to perform one or more of the actions of the method.

[0086] The network coordinator device (e.g., network coordinator device 306) is configured to initiate a new pairing session to pair a controller device (controller device 302) and an operation execution device (e.g., operation execution device 304) with a wireless network (e.g., wireless network 308). In action 502, a user selects a network coordinator device from among the controller device and the operation execution device by operating a pairing input element (e.g., pairing input element 306c) (such as, for example, a button, a switch, etc.), which prompts the selected network coordinator device to initiate a new pairing session. When in pairing mode, in action 504, the network coordinator device scans for pairing signals from other devices. When the new pairing session is active (active), the user can selectively pair the controller device or the operation execution execution device with the wireless network by operating a corresponding pairing input element (e.g., pairing input element 302d or 304b) (such as a button, a switch, etc.) on a given device to be placed in pairing mode. When in pairing mode, in action 506, in response to the operation of the pairing input element of the selected device, the selected device sends a pairing signal to the network coordinator device. In action 508, the pairing signal allows the network coordinator device to identify the given device and allow the given device to join the wireless network. If a proprietary network protocol is used for the wireless network, only devices configured to communicate according to the proprietary network protocol can be recognized and paired by the network coordinator device.

[0087] In some embodiments, in action 506, the pairing signal from the given device provides a corresponding device type identifier, and the network coordinator device determines whether the given device is an assignable device based on the corresponding device type identifier. If the network coordinator device determines that the given device is an assignable device based on the corresponding device type identifier, the network coordinator device assigns the next available assignable device type to the given device, and in action 510, the pairing signal allows the network coordinator device to allow the given device to join the wireless network. Figures 8 to 11 The assignment of assigned device types is discussed further.

[0088] If the network coordinator device determines that the given device is not an assignable device (e.g., determines that the given device is a standard device), the network coordinator device only pairs devices with different corresponding device type identifications in action 510. For example, the pairing signal may identify the given device as a rear derailleur. By limiting pairing to devices with different corresponding device type identifications, the system (e.g., system 300) will not include more than one rear derailleur. Therefore, an unknown device cannot mimic another device type that has been selected for pairing.

[0089] In action 512, the user may manually end the pairing session (eg, by operating the pairing input element 306c on the network coordinator device 306). Alternatively, the network coordinator device may automatically end the pairing session after a set time period has elapsed.

[0090] In action 514, a list (e.g., list 310) is defined by the controller device and the devices that have been paired with the wireless network at the end of the pairing session. To enhance the integrity of the system, no other devices can be paired with the wireless network 38 after the pairing session has ended. By fixing the list, the system only includes devices selected by the user (e.g., device 302 and / or device 304). This prevents unauthorized devices from joining the wireless network and maliciously or accidentally interfering with the operation of the devices actually selected by the user.

[0091] In action 516, when the pairing session ends, the network coordinator device is configured to send a list identifying the controller device and the operation execution device paired with the wireless network to the operation execution device. In action 518, the operation execution device is configured to determine how to perform an operation in response to a signal (e.g., signal 302b) received from the controller device based on the list received from the network coordinator device.

[0092] If necessary, a new pairing session can be initiated with the network coordinator device to reset the list and pair a different set of devices (e.g., devices 302 and / or 304). At the end of the new pairing session, the different set of devices defines a new list. The new pairing session unpairs and resets all devices that may have been added to the wireless network in the previous pairing session. Typically, paired devices cannot be removed from the list, and new devices cannot be added to the list, until a new pairing session is initiated. A device paired with a wireless network can be paired with another wireless network (e.g., a wireless network on another bicycle system), but the device cannot rejoin the previous wireless network (e.g., wireless network 308) because the previous wireless network was reset when pairing with the other wireless network.

[0093] refer to Figure 3 , the controller device 302 is configured to send a signal 302b indicating an input received by an input element 302a of the controller device 302 to the operation execution device 304. For example, the first controller device 302 (e.g., the first controller device 120) and the second controller device 302 (e.g., the second controller device 122) can wirelessly send the first shift signal (e.g., the first shift signal 120b) and the second shift signal (e.g., the second shift signal 120a) as described above, respectively, to indicate the input received by the first input element (e.g., the first shift lever 120a) and the second input element (e.g., the second shift lever 122a).

[0094] Operation execution device 304 is configured to process default assignment set 312 based on list 310 to determine how operation execution device 304 performs operations in response to signal 302b. Default assignment set 312 may be sent to each operation execution device 304 by network coordinator device 306 and / or stored locally on each operation execution device 304.

[0095] For example, after the pairing session is complete, the list 310 may include a first controller device having a first shifter (e.g., a right shifter), a second controller device having a second shifter (e.g., a left shifter), a front derailleur, and a rear derailleur. A default assignment set 312 for controlling the operation of the operation performing device 304 is determined based on a particular set of devices in the list 310. For example, the default assignment set 312 may specify that, using the example list 310 described above: (i) the rear derailleur shifts the chain to a sprocket inboard relative to the bicycle frame in response to a signal from the second controller device (without a signal from the first controller device); (ii) the rear derailleur shifts the chain to a sprocket outboard relative to the frame in response to a signal from the first controller device (without a signal from the second controller device); and (iii) the front derailleur shifts the chain to an alternate chainring in response to simultaneous signals from the first controller device and the second controller device. If the list 310 includes a different set of devices, the default assignment set 312 may be different. For example, if the list 310 includes a height adjustable seat tube assembly but does not include a front derailleur, the seat tube assembly lowers the seat in response to simultaneous signals from the right controller device and the left controller device.

[0096] Paired devices are considered to remain in the wireless network 308, and the list 310 does not change even if a paired device becomes inactive or unavailable (eg, loses power or is re-paired to another wireless network).

[0097] As described below, each operation performed by the corresponding operation performing device 304 occurs only in response to a signal 302b from a single assigned controller device 302 or from a single combination of assigned controller devices 302. For example, an operation may involve shifting a chain inwardly to a sprocket using a rear derailleur, and such an operation occurs only in response to a signal from a second controller device. This reduces the likelihood that the operation performing device 304 will generate an unwanted response to a signal from an unknown device.

[0098] When a combination of more than one controller device is employed to generate simultaneous signals (e.g., simultaneous signals from a first controller device and a second controller device), the combination of controller devices may be considered a single virtual controller device. Thus, an operation may involve the front derailleur shifting the chain to an alternate chain ring, and such operation may occur only in response to signals from a single virtual controller device defined by the combination of the first controller device and the second controller device. Alternatively, the single virtual device may be provided by simultaneous signals from two or more inputs on a single device (e.g., simultaneous presses of multiple buttons on a single unified shifter device).

[0099] Figure 6 A method 600 for controlling an operation execution device (e.g., operation execution device 304) is shown. Once a list is established and a default assignment set is determined based on the list, each operation execution device may receive a signal from a controller device via a wireless network in action 602. In action 604, each operation execution device may identify one or more signals from an assigned controller device or from an assigned combination of controller devices. In action 606, each operation execution device performs an operation in response to one or more signals from an assigned controller device or from an assigned combination of controller devices.

[0100] Although the default assignment set 312 may provide an effective method for determining how the operation execution device 304 should respond to the signal 302b from the controller device 302, the user may prefer to use a modified assignment set 312'. For example, the modified assignment set 312' may provide that, using the example list 310 described above: (i) the rear derailleur shifts the chain to the inside sprocket in response to a signal from the first controller device that does not exceed a threshold amount of time (without a signal from the second controller device); (ii) the rear derailleur shifts the chain to the outside sprocket in response to a signal from the first controller device that meets or exceeds a threshold amount of time (without a signal from the second controller device); and (iii) the front derailleur shifts the chain to an alternate chainring in response to a signal from the second controller device.

[0101] Therefore, aspects of the present disclosure allow modification of the allocation between the controller device 302 and the operation execution device 304 to reconfigure the system 300. Figure 3As shown, the network coordinator device 306 may include a second wired and / or wireless communication interface 306b configured to receive a modified allocation set 312', wherein the modified allocation set 312' causes at least one operation performed by the operation execution device 304 to occur in response to a signal 302b from a different controller device 302. The second communication interface 306b may use a different protocol than the first communication interface 306a (for example, when the first communication interface 306a uses a dedicated protocol).

[0102] Figure 7 A method of modifying a default or current allocation set is shown. In act 702, a network coordinator device (eg, network coordinator device 306) receives a modified allocation set (eg, Figure 3 In action 704, the network coordinator device sends the modified allocation set to the operation execution device (e.g., operation execution device 304) via the wireless network (e.g., wireless network 308). Accordingly, in action 706, the operation execution device replaces the default or current allocation set (e.g., default allocation set 312) with the modified allocation set. In action 708, the operation execution device determines how the operation execution device performs the operation in response to the signal (e.g., signal 302b) according to the modified allocation set. If necessary, the user can modify the allocation set again in a similar manner.

[0103] According to some embodiments, reference Figure 3 , the second communication interface 306 b is configured to wirelessly connect the network coordinator device 306 to an external computing device 314, such as a mobile device (e.g., a smart phone), a computing tablet, a laptop computer, a personal computer, etc. The external computing device 314 may include an application 316, such as a mobile application or other computer software. The application 316 is configured to receive the modified allocation set 312 ′ from the user and send the modified allocation set 312 ′ to the network coordinator device 306.

[0104] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4CExample scenarios 400A to 400C are shown, which further demonstrate how a modified set of assignments can be implemented in the system 300. The controller device 302 paired with the wireless network 308 includes a first controller device 402 and a second controller device 403. The first controller device 402 includes a first input element 402a configured to receive a first input from a user. The first input from the user modifies the state of the first input element 402a. The second controller device 403 includes a second input element 403a configured to receive a second input from the user. The second input from the user modifies the state of the second input element 403a. For example, the first input element 402a can be a right shift lever, and the second input element 403a can be a left shift lever. The user can engage either shift lever so that the state of the shift lever can be modified to any one of the following: (i) when the user engages for less than a threshold amount of time - an active state; (ii) when the user is not engaged - an inactive state; or (iii) when the user continues to engage for at least a threshold amount of time - an updated state. The signals 302b from the controller devices 302 include a first signal 402b from the first controller device 402 and a second signal 403b from the second controller device 403. The first signal 402b indicates a modified state of the first input element 402a, and the second signal 403b indicates a modified state of the second input element 403a. The signal 302b from a particular controller device 302 may include a device type identification of the particular controller device 302, an input identifier of an input element 302a on the particular controller device 302 (if there is more than one input element 302a), and information about the modified state of the input element 302a. The signal 302b may include more, less, and / or different data.

[0105] The operation execution device 304 includes a first operation execution device 404 and a second operation execution device 405. For example, the first operation execution device 404 may be a front suspension system, and the second operation execution device 405 may be a rear suspension system. Figure 4A In the first allocation set 412 shown in FIG. , the first operation execution device 404 is configured to: (i) identify the first signal 402b in the signal 302b received from the controller device 302; (ii) identify the modified state of the first input element 402a; and (iii) perform a first operation on the bicycle in response to the modified state of the first input element 402a.

[0106] like Figure 4BAs shown, the network coordinator device 306 is configured to (i) receive the second allocation set 412'; and (ii) send the second allocation set 412' to the first operation execution device 404 via the wireless network 308. The first operation execution device 404 is configured to receive the second signal 403b from the second controller device 403 via the wireless network 308. In response to receiving the second allocation set 412', the first operation execution device 404 is modified to: (i) identify the modified state of the second input element 403a; (ii) perform a first operation on the bicycle in response to the modified state of the second input element 403a; and (iii) remain idle in response to the first signal from the first controller device 402.

[0107] like Figure 4C As shown, the network coordinator device is configured to: (i) receive a third allocation set 412”; and (ii) send the third allocation set 412” to the operation execution device 304 via the wireless network 308. The second operation execution device 405 is configured to receive the first signal 402b from the first controller device 402 via the wireless network 308. In response to receiving the third allocation set 412”: (i) the second operation execution device 405 is configured to identify the modified state of the first input element 402a and perform a second operation on the bicycle in response to the modified state of the first input element 402a; and (ii) the first operation execution device 404 is modified to remain idle in response to the first signal from the first controller device.

[0108] Figure 8 A method 800 is shown for establishing a wireless network between a network coordinator device (e.g., a pairing coordinator device), a controller device (e.g., a plurality of assignable controller devices and a plurality of non-assignable or standard controller devices), and an operation execution device, and establishing a default assignment set that determines how the operation execution device performs operations in response to signals received from the controller device. The actions of the method presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, the method may be implemented with one or more additional actions not described and / or without one or more of the actions discussed. Additionally, in Figure 8 The order in which the actions of the methods are illustrated and described below is not intended to be limiting.

[0109] In some embodiments, the method may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit configured to process information, an analog circuit configured to process information, a state machine, and / or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices include one or more devices that perform some or all of the actions of the method in response to instructions stored electronically on an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices are configured by hardware, firmware, and / or software to be specifically configured to perform one or more actions of the method.

[0110] In action 802, a network coordinator device (e.g., network coordinator device 306) is configured to initiate a new pairing session to pair, for example, a controller device (e.g., controller device 302) and an operation execution device (e.g., operation execution device 304) to a wireless network (e.g., wireless network 308). In action 802, a user may select a network coordinator device from, for example, a controller device and an operation execution device by operating a pairing input element (e.g., pairing input element 306c) (such as a button, a switch, etc.), which prompts the selected network coordinator device to initiate a new pairing session. When in pairing mode, in action 804, the network coordinator device scans for pairing signals from other devices. In other words, the network coordinator device searches for controller devices and operation execution devices (e.g., joiners) that want to join the wireless network.

[0111] When a new pairing session is active, a user may selectively pair a controller device or an operation execution device to a wireless network by operating a corresponding pairing input element (such as a button, switch, etc.) on a given device to be placed in pairing mode. While in pairing mode, in act 806, the selected device sends a pairing signal to the network coordinator device in response to operation of the pairing input element of the selected device.

[0112] In action 808, the network coordinator device determines whether the selected device is an assignable device (e.g., an assignable controller device). The network coordinator device may determine whether the selected device is, for example, an assignable controller based on the sent pairing signal. The sent pairing signal may include a device type code, and the network coordinator device may determine whether the selected device is an assignable controller based on the device type code within the sent pairing signal. Standard controllers are programmed with static device type codes that do not change throughout the life of the component. Each assignable controller may be programmed with an assignable device type (e.g., an assignable device type code) at the time of manufacture. For example, the assignable device type code may be stored in a memory of the corresponding assignable controller. As an example, the assignable device type code may be 96 or 114, but additional, fewer and / or different assignable device type codes may be provided. In one embodiment, a first assignable device type code (e.g., 96) corresponds to a single-button assignable controller, and a second assignable device type code (e.g., 114) corresponds to a dual-button assignable controller.

[0113] In one embodiment, one or more ranges of device type codes may correspond to one or more assignable controllers. For example, device type codes 96-113 may correspond to single-button assignable controller devices, and device type codes 114-127 may correspond to dual-button assignable controller devices. At the time of manufacture, each of the single-button assignable controller devices may be programmed with a device type code (e.g., assignable device type code) 96, and each of the dual-button assignable controller devices may be programmed with a device type code (e.g., assignable device type code) 114. By executing method 800, for example, these assignable device type codes programmed at the time of manufacture may be updated. Thus, determining whether a selected device is an assignable device may include comparing the device type code stored at the selected device with one or more ranges of device type codes (e.g., within a device type code range of 96-113 for single-button assignable controller devices, and within a device type code range of 114-127 for dual-button assignable controller devices).

[0114] When the network coordinator device determines that the selected device is an assignable controller, the method moves to action 810. When the network coordinator device determines that the selected device is not an assignable controller (e.g., a standard controller), the pairing signal allows the network coordinator device to identify the given device and allow the given device to join the wireless network. If a dedicated network protocol is used for the wireless network (e.g., wireless network 308), only devices configured to communicate according to the dedicated network protocol can be recognized and paired by the network coordinator device. The method then returns to action 804.

[0115] In action 810, when the selected device is determined to be an assignable controller, for example, the network coordinator device programs the selected device with a new assigned device type code. For example, a memory of the selected device may store the new assigned device type code. In one embodiment, the new assigned device type code is stored in the memory of the selected device so that, for example, the device type code programmed at the time of manufacture is replaced.

[0116] For example, the network coordinator device programs selected devices that the network coordinator device determines to be assignable devices with new assigned device type codes in ascending numerical order based on the assignable device type (e.g., a single-button assignable controller or a two-button assignable controller) and the order in which the assignable devices were paired into the wireless network.

[0117] In one embodiment, if the selected device has a device type code 96-113 (e.g., device type code 96 indicating a single-button assignable controller) and is the first single-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network 308, the network coordinator device 306 programs the selected device with device type code 97. The second single-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network (e.g., based on device type 96-113) is programmed with device type code 98, and the third single-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network (e.g., based on device type 96-113) is programmed with device type code 99. This pattern continues for each additional single-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network.

[0118] If the selected device has a device type code 114-127 (e.g., device type code 114 indicating a two-button assignable controller) and is the first two-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network, the network coordinator device programs the selected device with device type code 115. A second two-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network (e.g., based on device type code 114-127) is programmed with device type code 116, and a third assignable device to be paired into the wireless network (e.g., based on device type code 114-127) is programmed with device type code 117. This pattern continues for each additional two-button assignable controller to be paired into the wireless network.

[0119] Additional, fewer, and / or different device type codes may be used for single-button assignable controllers and / or two-button assignable controllers. In one embodiment, device type assignments may be provided for assignable controllers having a greater number of buttons (e.g., three buttons). For example, a three-button assignable controller may be programmed with device type code 128 at the time of manufacture, and may be assigned device type codes 129-141 based on the order in which they are paired into a wireless network.

[0120] After the new assigned device type code is assigned in act 810, the method returns to act 804 unless the pairing session ends. In act 812, the user may manually end the pairing session (e.g., by operating the pairing input element 306c on the network coordinator device 306). Alternatively, the network coordinator device may automatically end the pairing session after a set time period has passed.

[0121] The list (e.g., list 310) is defined by the controller devices and operation execution devices that have been paired to the wireless network at the end of the pairing session. To enhance the integrity of the system, no other devices can be paired to the wireless network after the pairing session has ended. By fixing the list, the system only includes devices selected by the user (e.g., devices 302, 304). This prevents unauthorized devices from joining the wireless network and maliciously or accidentally interfering with the operation of the devices actually selected by the user (e.g., devices 302, 304).

[0122] In action 814, when the pairing session ends, the network coordinator device sends a list identifying the controller devices and operation execution devices paired to the wireless network to the operation execution device. In action 816, the operation execution device is configured to determine how to perform an operation in response to a signal (e.g., signal 302b) received from the controller device based on the list received from the network coordinator device.

[0123] If desired, a new pairing session may be initiated with the network coordinator device to reset the roster and pair a different set of devices (e.g., a different set of devices 302, 304). At the end of the new pairing session, the different set of devices defines a new roster (e.g., new roster 310). The new pairing session unpairs and resets all devices that may have been added to the wireless network in a previous pairing session. Typically, paired devices cannot be removed from the roster, and new devices cannot be added to the roster, until a new pairing session is initiated. A device paired to a wireless network may be paired to another wireless network (e.g., on another bicycle system), but the device cannot rejoin the previous wireless network because the previous wireless network was reset when paired to the other wireless network.

[0124] The operation execution device is configured to process a default allocation set (e.g., default allocation set 312) based on the list (e.g., list 310) to determine how the operation execution device performs the operation in response to a signal (e.g., signal 302b). The default allocation set may be sent by the network coordinator device to each operation execution device and / or stored locally on each operation execution device.

[0125] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9BAn embodiment of a method 900 for establishing a wireless network between a network coordinator device, controller devices (e.g., multiple assignable controller devices and multiple non-assignable or standard controller devices), and operation execution devices is shown. The controller devices include three two-button assignable controllers (e.g., flat handlebar shifters), the operation execution devices include a seat tube assembly, a front derailleur, and a rear derailleur, and the rear derailleur is defined as a network coordinator device. However, other devices may be selected as network coordinator devices. The actions of the method presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, the method may be implemented with one or more additional actions not described and / or without one or more of the actions discussed. Additionally, in FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B The order in which the actions of the methods are illustrated and described below is not intended to be limiting.

[0126] In some embodiments, method 900 may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., digital processors, analog processors, digital circuits configured to process information, analog circuits configured to process information, state machines, and / or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices include one or more devices that perform some or all of the actions of the method in response to instructions electronically stored on an electronic storage medium. One or more processing devices configured by hardware, firmware, and / or software are used to perform one or more actions of the method.

[0127] In action 902, the network coordinator device (e.g., rear derailleur) is configured to initiate a new pairing session to pair, for example, three two-button assignable controllers, a seat tube assembly, and a front derailleur to a wireless network through the rear derailleur. In action 902, a user may select a network coordinator device from a controller device and an operation execution device of a bicycle by operating a pairing input element (such as a button, a switch, etc.), which prompts the selected network coordinator device (e.g., rear derailleur) to initiate a new pairing session.

[0128] When in pairing mode, the rear derailleur, for example, scans for pairing signals from other devices in action 904. In other words, the rear derailleur searches for a controller device and an operation execution device (eg, a joiner) that want to join the wireless network.

[0129] When a new pairing session is active, the user may selectively pair a controller device or an operation execution device (e.g., a first selected device) to a wireless network by operating a corresponding operation pairing input element (such as a button, switch, etc.) on a given device to be placed in pairing mode. While in pairing mode, in act 906, the first selected device sends a pairing signal to the rear derailleur, e.g., in response to operation of the pairing input element of the first selected device.

[0130] In act 908, the rear derailleur determines whether the first selected device is an assignable device (e.g., a first assignable controller). The rear derailleur may determine whether the first selected device is, for example, an assignable controller based on the transmitted pairing signal. The transmitted pairing signal may include a device type code, and the rear derailleur may determine whether the first selected device is an assignable controller based on the device type code within the transmitted pairing signal.

[0131] exist FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the first selected device has a device type 114 indicating a two-button assignable controller, and thus the rear derailleur determines that the first selected device is an assignable controller. In act 910, after the rear derailleur determines that the first selected device is the first assignable controller in act 908, the rear derailleur programs the first assignable controller with the new assigned device type code. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the rear derailleur programs the first assignable controller with the new assigned device type code 115, and the first assignable controller is allowed to pair to the wireless network. For example, the new assigned device type code is stored in the memory of the first assignable controller (e.g., replacing the original or most recently stored device type code).

[0132] In act 912, the rear derailleur continues to scan for pairing signals from other devices. While still in pairing mode, in act 914, the second selected device sends a pairing signal to the rear derailleur in response to operation of the pairing input element of the second device.

[0133] In act 916, the rear derailleur determines whether the second selected device is an assignable device (e.g., a second assignable controller). The rear derailleur may determine whether the second selected device is, for example, an assignable controller based on the transmitted pairing signal. The transmitted pairing signal may include a device type code, and the rear derailleur may determine whether the second selected device is an assignable controller based on the device type code within the transmitted pairing signal.

[0134] exist FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the second selected device has a device type 114 indicating a two-button assignable controller, and thus the rear derailleur determines that the second selected device is an assignable controller. In act 918, after the rear derailleur determines that the second selected device is a second assignable controller in act 916, the rear derailleur programs the second assignable controller with the newly assigned device type code. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the rear derailleur programs the second assignable controller with the newly assigned device type code 116 and allows the second assignable controller to pair to the wireless network.

[0135] In act 920, the rear derailleur continues to scan for pairing signals from other devices. While still in pairing mode, in act 922, the third selected device sends a pairing signal to the rear derailleur in response to operation of the pairing input element of the third device.

[0136] In act 924, the rear derailleur determines whether the third selected device is an assignable device (e.g., a third assignable controller). The rear derailleur may determine whether the third selected device is, for example, an assignable controller based on the transmitted pairing signal. The transmitted pairing signal may include a device type code, and the rear derailleur may determine whether the third selected device is an assignable controller based on the device type code within the transmitted pairing signal.

[0137] exist FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the third selected device has a device type 114 indicating a two-button assignable controller, and thus the rear derailleur determines that the third selected device is an assignable controller. In act 926, after the rear derailleur determines in act 924 that the third selected device is a third assignable controller, the rear derailleur programs the third assignable controller with the newly assigned device type code. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the rear derailleur programs the third assignable controller with the newly assigned device type code 117 and allows the third assignable controller to pair to the wireless network.

[0138] In act 928, the rear derailleur continues to scan for pairing signals from other devices. While still in pairing mode, in act 930, the fourth selected device sends a pairing signal to the rear derailleur in response to operation of the pairing input element of the fourth device.

[0139] In act 932, the rear derailleur determines whether the fourth selected device is an assignable device. The rear derailleur may determine whether the fourth selected device is, for example, an assignable controller based on the transmitted pairing signal. The transmitted pairing signal may include a device type code, and the rear derailleur may determine whether the fourth selected device is an assignable controller based on the device type code within the transmitted pairing signal.

[0140] exist FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the rear derailleur determines that the fourth selected device is not an assignable device (e.g., determines that the fourth selected device is a standard device). As part of act 932, the rear derailleur only pairs standard devices that have a different device type than the rear derailleur. For example, the pairing signal may identify the fourth selected device as a front derailleur and allow the front derailleur to pair to the wireless network.

[0141] In act 934, the rear derailleur continues to scan for pairing signals from other devices. While still in pairing mode, in act 936, the fifth selected device sends a pairing signal to the rear derailleur in response to operation of the pairing input element of the fifth device.

[0142] In act 938, the rear derailleur determines whether the fifth selected device is an assignable device. The rear derailleur may determine whether the fifth selected device is, for example, an assignable controller based on the transmitted pairing signal. The transmitted pairing signal may include a device type code, and the rear derailleur may determine whether the fifth selected device is an assignable controller based on the device type code within the transmitted pairing signal.

[0143] exist FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B In the example shown, the rear derailleur determines that the fifth selected device is not an assignable device (e.g., determines that the fifth selected device is a standard device). As part of act 938, the rear derailleur only pairs standard devices that have a different device type than the rear derailleur and the front derailleur. For example, the pairing signal may identify the fifth selected device as a seat post assembly and allow the seat post assembly to be paired to the wireless network.

[0144] In action 940, the rear derailleur continues to scan for pairing signals from other devices. In action 942, the user can manually end the pairing session (e.g., by operating a pairing input element on the rear derailleur). Alternatively, the rear derailleur can automatically end the pairing session after a set time period has passed.

[0145] After all selected devices have been paired and the pairing session is closed, the network coordinator device (e.g., a rear derailleur) then uses the list of paired devices to specify default reactions. The default reactions are mapped to, for example, assignable controllers. For example, a first button of a first assignable controller has a default reaction of shifting outboard, and a second button of the first assignable controller has a default reaction of shifting inboard. In one embodiment (where single-button assignable controllers are paired into a wireless network), the first assignable controller may have a default reaction of shifting outboard, and the second assignable controller may have a default reaction of shifting inboard.

[0146] Fig.10 An embodiment of a method of mapping default reactions to assignable controllers is shown. Fig.10 The method shown in can be FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B The method or another method for establishing a wireless network is a continuation of the method. The actions of the method presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, the method may be implemented with one or more additional actions not described and / or without one or more of the actions discussed. In addition, Fig.10The order in which the actions of the methods are illustrated and described below is not intended to be limiting.

[0147] In some embodiments, the method may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit configured to process information, an analog circuit configured to process information, a state machine, and / or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices include one or more devices that perform some or all of the actions of the method in response to instructions electronically stored on an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices are configured by hardware, firmware, and / or software to perform one or more actions of the method.

[0148] The list is defined by the controller devices and operation performing devices (e.g., the first assignable controller, the second assignable controller, the third assignable controller, the rear derailleur, the front derailleur, and the seat tube assembly) that have been paired with the wireless network at the end of the pairing session. To enhance the integrity of the system, no other devices can be paired with the wireless network after the pairing session has ended. By fixing the list, the system only includes devices selected by the user. This prevents unauthorized devices from joining the wireless network and maliciously or accidentally interfering with the operation of the device actually selected by the user.

[0149] In act 1002, when the pairing session ends, the rear derailleur is configured, for example, to send a list identifying the controller devices (e.g., the first assignable controller device, the second assignable controller device, and the third assignable controller device) paired to the wireless network and the operation execution devices (e.g., the rear derailleur (RD), the front derailleur (FD), and the seat tube (SP) assembly). In act 1004, for example, Fig.10 As shown in , the RD, FD and SP components are configured to determine how to perform operations in response to signals received from the first, second and third assignable controller devices FB1, FB2 and FB3 based on a list sent by the rear derailleur.

[0150] exist Fig.10In the example shown, the first assignable controller device FB1, which is the first assignable controller device paired to the wireless network, is assigned a first default action or control and a second default action or control. For example, the first button (e.g., the first input element) of the first assignable controller device FB1 is assigned the action of shifting inwards of RD, and the second button (e.g., the second input element) of the first assignable controller FB1 is assigned the action of shifting outwards of RD. The second assignable controller device FB2, which is the second assignable controller device paired to the wireless network, is assigned a third default action or control. For example, the first button and the second button of the second assignable controller device FB2 are both assigned the action of actuating a dropper of the SP component. According to this example of mapping default reactions to assignable controller devices, the third assignable controller device FB3 does not have a default action, and FD does not have a default associated controller device.

[0151] Different mappings may be provided with different pairing orders. If the assignable controller device is re-paired into a new system, the device type is again overwritten to be programmed with the new assigned device type by the pairing coordinator device (eg, network coordinator device). Fig.11 For example, if the second assignable controller device FB2 is paired to the wireless network before the first assignable controller device FB1 is paired to the wireless network, the second assignable controller device FB2 can control the RD instead of the first assignable controller device FB1. In addition, the first assignable controller device FB1 can control the SP component instead of the second assignable controller device FB2.

[0152] Although the method of the present embodiment promotes default reaction designation, all controller devices (both standard and assignable) may be reconfigured after pairing. For example, the designation may be reconfigured via a mobile device application (eg, application 316) that communicates with a network coordinator, for example.

[0153] An assignable controller device (e.g., assignable controller device 302, as defined by a device type code programmed in controller device 302, respectively) is configured for multiple identical controller devices to be installed on bicycle 100, wherein the placement of assignable controller device 302 on bicycle 100 is determined by the user. Although the user can use a mobile device application (e.g., application 316) to, for example, reconfigure the designation, representations of identical assignable controller devices 302, for example, can have the same name and the same illustration (e.g., icon) within application 316 displayed at a display of a mobile device (e.g., external computing device 314). Therefore, it may be difficult to distinguish these representations from each other within application 316. For example, if a user builds a bicycle with two standard controllers and two assignable controllers, when the user opens application 316, representations of four devices are displayed within application 316. Although each representation of the two standard controllers displays a unique illustration (e.g., a unique icon) and a unique name, the user may not be able to determine which representation (e.g., which icon) within application 316 corresponds to which assignable controller device 302.

[0154] Fig.12 A method 1200 is shown for indicating within a mobile application or other software (e.g., a mobile device application) which input element (e.g., button) of which controller device has been pressed. The actions of method 1200 presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, method 1200 may be implemented with one or more additional actions not described and / or without one or more of the actions discussed. In addition, the actions of method 1200 in Fig.12 The order in which the actions are illustrated and described below is not intended to be limiting.

[0155] In some embodiments, method 1200 may be implemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digital processor, an analog processor, a digital circuit configured to process information, an analog circuit configured to process information, a state machine, and / or other mechanisms for electronically processing information). The one or more processing devices include one or more devices that perform some or all of the actions of method 1200 in response to instructions stored electronically on an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices are configured by hardware, firmware, and / or software to perform one or more actions of the method.

[0156] refer to Fig.12In the example of, "controller 0" is a first assignable controller device, and "controller 1" is a second assignable controller device on a bicycle (e.g., bicycle 100). The first assignable controller device and the second assignable controller device are the same controller device (e.g., the same controller device). The "bridge device" corresponds to a coordinator device (e.g., network coordinator device 306) or another computing device (e.g., controller device) on the bicycle. The "AXS application" corresponds to an application (e.g., application 316) running on a mobile device (e.g., external computing device 314), for example. The coordinator device communicates with the first assignable controller device, the second assignable controller device, and the application running on the mobile device. For example, the coordinator device communicates with the first assignable controller device and the second assignable controller device via a first wireless network (e.g., a wireless network established via a pairing session as described above), and communicates with the mobile device via a second wireless network. In one embodiment, data may be transmitted via the first wireless network and the second wireless network using different protocols or standards. In another embodiment, data may be transmitted via the first wireless network and the second wireless network using the same protocol or standard. In other words, the first wireless network and the second wireless network may be part of an overall wireless network via which at least the coordinator device, the first allocable controller device, the second allocable controller device, and the mobile device may communicate.

[0157] In action 1202, in response to a user input (e.g., a button press) at an input element (e.g., a button) of a first assignable controller device, the first assignable controller device generates a message or signal (e.g., a button message) and sends the generated message or signal to the coordinator device. In one embodiment, the first assignable controller device also sends the button message to other devices of the bicycle (e.g., devices paired within the first wireless network of the bicycle). For example, the first assignable controller device can send the button message to all receivers of the first wireless network of the bicycle (e.g., all controller devices and operation execution devices paired to the coordinator device).

[0158] For example, the button message includes data identifying the device type and data identifying the input element, the activation of which initiates the generation of the button message. The data identifying the device type can be, for example, a device type code as described above, and the data identifying the input element can be a bit mask (e.g., a button mask) having one or more bits associated with, for example, the first assignable controller (e.g., associated with one or more input elements or buttons of the first assignable controller). For example, the bit mask can include bits respectively associated with one or more input elements of the first assignable controller, and the bits of the bit mask can be set when the corresponding input element is activated.

[0159] In action 1204, the coordinator device stores data identifying the device type and data identifying the input element for the first allocable controller device in a memory of the coordinator device. For example, the coordinator device may store the data identifying the device type and the data identifying the input element in a cache of the coordinator device.

[0160] In action 1206, the coordinator device generates a notification based on the button message received by the coordinator device. The coordinator device sends the notification to an application running on the mobile device via the second wireless network. The notification identifies that the coordinator device has heard a new controller device.

[0161] In action 1208, in response to the notification sent by the coordinator device to the mobile device, the mobile device (e.g., via an application running on the mobile device) generates a request and sends the request to the coordinator device via the second wireless network. The request is for information about the newly heard controller device (e.g., data related to the received button message).

[0162] In action 1210, the coordinator device retrieves data for identifying the device type and data for identifying the input element (e.g., button mask) for the first assignable controller device stored (e.g., cached) at the coordinator device. The coordinator device sends the cached data to the mobile device, for example, via the second wireless network. The cached data can be unique cached data related to the device type and input element stored at the coordinator device. For example, when the coordinator device stores the data for identifying the device type and the data for identifying the input element in the cache of the coordinator device, the coordinator device can overwrite the device type data and input element identification data previously stored in the cache of the coordinator device. Alternatively, the cached data retrieved in action 1210 can be the data most recently cached at the coordinator device.

[0163] In act 1212, the application running on the mobile device highlights the representation of the first assignable controller within the mobile device application based on the received cached data. For example, the mobile device or another device in communication with the mobile device stores data associated with the representation of the first assignable controller displayed within the GUI of the application running on the mobile device. For example, the mobile device stores a device type and one or more button masks for each device displayed within the application, and the mobile device compares the received cached data with the data stored at the mobile device to identify which representation to highlight (e.g., which button representation of which device representation displayed within the GUI of the application running on the mobile device).

[0164] The application running on the mobile device can highlight the identified representation within the application in any number of ways. For example, the mobile device can highlight the identified representation within the application by increasing the brightness of the identified representation (e.g., lighting up) and / or changing the color of the identified representation. In one embodiment, the application running on the mobile device highlights the identified representation for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., one second, two seconds, or five seconds). In another embodiment, the application running on the mobile device highlights the identified representation until another representation within the application will be highlighted (e.g., when another input element is activated).

[0165] Fig.12 The example shown in shows actions 1202-1212 repeated for a second assignable controller device. Actions 1202-1212 of method 1200 may be repeated for any number of controller devices (e.g., assignable controller devices) configured to the first wireless network. In one embodiment, actions 1202-1212 of method 1200 are repeated each time an input element of a controller device paired with a coordinator device via the first wireless network is activated by a user input. In another embodiment, actions 1202-1212 of method 1200 are repeated each time an input element of an assignable controller device paired with a coordinator device via the first wireless network is activated by a user input.

[0166] Fig.13 It is a visual representation of the user experience of a method, such as within an application running on a mobile device, that indicates which input element (eg, button) of which controller device has been pressed. Fig.13 A system 1300 for a bicycle (e.g., bicycle 100) is shown, which includes a rear derailleur 1302 used as a coordinator device (e.g., a bridge device), a first controller device 1304, a second controller device 1306, a third controller device 1308, and a front derailleur 1310. The system 1300 may include more, fewer, and / or different components. For example, the system 1300 may include more or fewer controller devices.

[0167] For example, the rear derailleur 1302, the first controller device 1304, the second controller device 1306, the third controller device 1308, and the front derailleur 1310 communicate with each other via a wireless network (e.g., the first wireless network 1312). In one embodiment, the first controller device 1304, the second controller device 1306, the third controller device 1308, and the front derailleur 1310 are paired to the rear derailleur 1302 to form the first wireless network 1312, as described above.

[0168] The rear derailleur 1302, used as a coordinator device, for example, communicates with a mobile device 1314 (e.g., a mobile phone) via the wireless network or another wireless network (e.g., a second wireless network 1316). The first wireless network 1312 and the second wireless network 1316 can be part of an overall wireless network operating with the same standard or protocol, or the first wireless network 1312 and the second wireless network 1316 can be different wireless networks operating with different standards or protocols, respectively.

[0169] The mobile device 1314 is configured to run an application 1318 including a GUI 1320 displayed by the mobile device 1314. The application 1318 can separately configure components (e.g., rear derailleur 1302 and front derailleur 1310) of the system 1300, such as a bicycle, and / or modify assignments (e.g., a default assignment set) (e.g., via the GUI 1320). The application 1318 can provide additional and / or different functionality.

[0170] The GUI 1320 displayed within the application 1318 includes representations of at least the assignable controller devices (e.g., the first controller device 1304 and the second controller device 1306) that are paired with the coordinator device (e.g., the rear derailleur 1302) within the first wireless network 1312. In one embodiment, the GUI 1320 displayed within the application 1318 includes representations of all components of the system 1300 (e.g., all components paired to the rear derailleur 1302 within the first wireless network 1312). Representations of unique components of the system 1300 (e.g., the rear derailleur 1302, the third controller device 1308, and the front derailleur 1310) may each have a unique representation (not shown) displayed within the GUI 1320 of the application 1318. Such unique components of the system 1300 may be identified by the corresponding representation within the GUI 1320. Assignable controller devices (e.g., first controller device 1304 and second controller device 1306) that are the same type of controller device (e.g., the same controller device; a single-button controller device, a two-button controller device, or a three-button controller device) may not be identifiable by corresponding representations within GUI 1320, respectively. In other words, for example, representation 1322 of first assignable controller device 1304 and representation 1324 of second controller device 1306 displayed within GUI 1320 of application 1318 running on mobile device 1314 may be identical.

[0171] exist Fig.13In the example shown, the first controller device 1304 includes three input elements 1326a-1326c (e.g., buttons), the second controller device 1306 includes three input elements 1328a-1328c (e.g., buttons), and the third controller device 1308 includes three input elements 1330a-1330c (e.g., buttons). The representation 1322 of the first assignable controller device 1304 may correspondingly include three representations 1332a-1332c of the input elements, and the representation 1324 of the second controller device 1306 may correspondingly include three representations 1334a-1334c of the input elements. The first controller device 1304 and the second controller device 1306 and the corresponding controller device representations 1322, 1324 may include more or fewer input elements.

[0172] like Fig.13 As shown in the example of , when the user presses the second input element 1326b (e.g., button 2) of the first controller device 1304, the first controller device 1304 sends data (e.g., device type code and button mask; button identification data) identifying which button on which controller is pressed to the coordinator device (e.g., a bridge device such as the rear derailleur 1302). As described above with reference to Fig.12 As discussed, the coordinator device 1302 ultimately sends the button identification data to the mobile device 1314 running the application 1318. The mobile device 1314 identifies which input element representation (e.g., representation 1332a, 1332b, 1332c, 1334a, 1334b, or 1334c) of which controller device representation (e.g., representation 1322 or 1324) within the GUI 1320 of the application 1318 running on the mobile device 1314 corresponds to the received button identification data, and the mobile device 1314 highlights the identified representation (e.g., representation 1332b) within the GUI 1320 of the application 1318. For example, the mobile device matches the received button identification data with data corresponding to the representation (e.g., representation 1332b) within the GUI 1320 of the application 1318. Through this process, a user can easily identify identical components (eg, identical shifters) without having to guess which controller device corresponds to which representation within the GUI 1320 of the application 1318 .

[0173] Aspects of the embodiments involve computer processing, for example, to receive and send wireless signals and determine how to respond to the signals. For example, the network coordinator device 306 may include one or more processors 306d configured to execute program instructions stored on a computer-readable medium 306e, which program instructions, when executed, cause the one or more processors 306d to: (i) establish a pairing session via the first communication interface 306c that allows the controller device 302 and the operation execution device 304 to be paired to the wireless network 308; and (ii) send a list 310 identifying the controller device 302 and the operation execution device 304 that are paired to the wireless network 308 to the operation execution device 304 via the first communication interface 306c.

[0174] As another example, the operation execution device 304 may include one or more processors 304c configured to execute program instructions stored on a computer-readable medium 304d, the program instructions causing the one or more processors 306d to process a default assignment set 312 based on the list 310, wherein the default assignment set 312 indicates which controller device 302 is selected to cause the operation execution device 304 to respond by modifying the operating state of the bicycle. In addition, the one or more processors 304c of the operation execution device 304 receive a modified assignment set 312' from the network coordinator device 306 via the communication interface 304a, wherein the modified assignment set 312' causes the operation execution device 304 to modify the operating state of the bicycle in response to the signal 302b from the different controller devices in the controller devices; the program instructions cause the one or more processors 304c to replace the default or current assignment set 312 with the modified assignment set 312'.

[0175] The one or more processors 302e, 304c, 306d used in the embodiment may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an analog circuit, a digital circuit, a combination thereof, or other processors now known or later developed. The processor may be a single device or a combination of multiple devices (such as by sharing or parallel processing).

[0176] Aspects of the embodiments may also employ computer memory. Such memory may be volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory may include one or more of a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a flash memory, an electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or other types of memory. The memory may be removed from a corresponding device, such as a secure digital (SD) memory card. The computer memory includes any one or more of a computer-readable medium and other equivalents and successor media in which data or instructions may be stored. Typically, a computer-readable medium includes any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying an instruction set for being executed by a processor or causing a computer system to execute any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

[0177] In order to power wireless communication and computer processing, embodiments employ a power supply that can be stored inside the operating device or stored outside the operating device. The power supply can include a combination of multiple batteries or other power supply devices. Specially installed or configured battery types or standard battery types such as CR 2012, CR 2016 and / or CR2032 can be used. In some embodiments, all devices in the system are powered separately (e.g., powered by dedicated batteries).

[0178] As described above, embodiments employ a communication interface. Such a communication interface is configured to send data such as control signals and / or commands to bicycle components. In particular, the communication interface provides wireless communication in any format now known or later developed. Although this specification describes components and functions that can be implemented with reference to specific standards and protocols in specific embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these 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 the prior art. Such standards are periodically replaced by faster or more efficient equivalents having substantially the same functionality. Therefore, replacement standards and protocols having the same or similar functionality as those disclosed herein are considered to be equivalents thereof.

[0179] It should be understood that diagrams or other representations of devices (such as network coordinator devices, controller devices, and operation execution devices) (even if not explicitly labeled) include any combination of (one or more) processors, (one or more) memory devices (e.g., computer-readable media storing program instructions for execution by (one or more) processors), (one or more) communication interfaces, and power supplies necessary to implement the disclosed features.

[0180] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of the various embodiments. These illustrations are not intended to be used as a complete description of all elements and features of the apparatus and system utilizing the structures or methods described herein. After reading this disclosure, many other embodiments may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other embodiments may be derived from this disclosure, so that structural and logical replacements and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions in the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Therefore, this disclosure and the accompanying drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0181] Although this specification contains many details, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the invention or the scope that can be claimed, but as descriptions of features specific to a particular embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of a separate embodiment in this specification may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments individually or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although the features may be described above as working in certain combinations and even initially claimed, one or more features from the claimed combination may be deleted from the combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may involve a sub-combination or a variation of the sub-combination.

[0182] Although some actions and / or functions described in the present disclosure have been described as being performed by specific entities, actions and / or functions can be performed by any entity such as those described in the present disclosure. In addition, although actions and / or functions have been stated in a particular order, it is not necessary to perform actions and / or functions in the stated order. However, in some cases, it may be desirable to perform actions and / or functions in the stated order. In addition, each of the actions and / or functions can be performed in response to one or more of other actions and / or functions. In addition, not all actions and / or functions need to be performed to realize one or more of the benefits provided by the present disclosure, and therefore not all actions and / or functions are necessary.

[0183] In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. In addition, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that any described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0184] It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and that the appended claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be interpreted as limited to the described order or elements unless otherwise stated. Therefore, all embodiments that fall within the scope and spirit of the appended claims and their equivalents are claimed to be protected as inventions.

[0185] priority

[0186] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 191,996, filed on May 22, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A system for a bicycle, the system comprising: a plurality of controller devices, the controller device type being the same for two or more of the plurality of controller devices; A pairing coordinator device, wherein the pairing coordinator device is configured to: receiving a corresponding device type identification from each controller device of the plurality of controller devices; identifying the controller device types for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifications for the two or more controller devices, respectively; Based on the identification of the controller device type, respectively updating the device type identifications for the two or more controller devices so that the updated device type identifications for the two or more controller devices are different from each other; as well as pairing only controller devices of the plurality of controller devices having different corresponding device type identifiers with the pairing coordinator device, thereby establishing a wireless network that enables communication between the pairing coordinator device and the controller device, The pairing coordinator device is further configured to determine whether the plurality of controller devices are allocatable devices.

2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising one or more movable components, each of the one or more movable components being configured to perform at least one corresponding operation on the bicycle, in, The pairing coordinator device is further configured to: receiving a respective device type identification from each of the one or more movable components; and The one or more movable components are paired to the wireless network, whereby the wireless network enables communication between the pairing coordinator device, the controller device, and the one or more movable components.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The pairing coordinator device is further configured to generate a list and send the list to the one or more movable components via the wireless network, the list identifying the controller device and the one or more movable components paired to the wireless network.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: Each controller device of the plurality of controller devices comprises at least one respective input element, wherein the paired controller device is configured to send signals indicative of inputs received by the input elements of the paired controller device, respectively; and The one or more movable components are configured to respectively identify operations to be performed in response to the signals received from the paired controller devices based on the list received from the pairing coordinator device.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The paired one or more movable components are configured to: determine which of the one or more movable components will perform which of the operations in response to the signal, and determine which of the one or more movable components will perform which of the operations in response to the signal including processing a default allocation set.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: The movable component of the paired one or more movable components is further configured to: receiving the signal from the paired controller device via the wireless network; identifying one of the received signals as being from an assigned controller device of the paired controller devices according to the default assignment set; as well as In response to the one signal received from the assigned controller device, the corresponding operation is performed.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein: the pairing coordinator device comprising a communication interface configured to receive a modified set of assignments, compared to the default set of assignments, the modified set of assignments causing a corresponding one of the one or more movable parts to perform at least one of the operations in response to one or more of the signals from a different one of the controller devices, wherein the pairing coordinator device is configured to send the modified allocation set to the one or more movable components via the wireless network; and Wherein, the one or more movable components are configured as: replacing the default allocation set with the modified allocation set; and How the one or more movable components perform the operation in response to the signal is determined based on the modified allocation set.

8. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The pairing coordinator device is a movable component among the one or more movable components.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more movable components include: a front derailleur configured to modify a position of a bicycle chain of the bicycle relative to a first gear set of the bicycle; a rear derailleur configured to modify a position of the bicycle chain relative to a second gear set of the bicycle; a seat tube assembly configured to modify a position of a seat of the bicycle relative to a frame of the bicycle; or any combination thereof.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The device type identification is updated based on a time sequence in which the pairing coordinator device receives the corresponding device type identifications from the two or more controller devices.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The identifying of the controller device type for the two or more controller devices comprises: comparing the received respective device type identifications for the two or more controller devices to a predetermined device type identification or a predetermined range of device type identifications, respectively; and The controller device type is identified when the received respective device type identifications for the two or more controller devices are the same as or within the predetermined device type identification range.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The received corresponding device type identifier has a numerical value, the predetermined device type identifier has a numerical value, and the predetermined device type identifier range represents a numerical value range.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein: the controller device type is a first controller device type, and The plurality of controller devices include two or more second controller devices, the two or more second controller devices are of a second controller device type, and the second controller device type is different from the first controller device type.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The first controller device type is one of an assignable single-button controller and an assignable two-button controller, and the second controller device type is the other of the assignable single-button controller and the assignable two-button controller.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein: The pairing coordinator device is further configured to: receiving a corresponding device type identification from each second controller device of the plurality of second controller devices; identifying the second controller device type for the plurality of second controller devices based on the device type identifications received from the plurality of second controller devices; Based on the identification of the second controller device type, respectively updating the device type identifiers for the plurality of second controller devices so that the updated device type identifiers for the plurality of second controller devices are different from each other; as well as Only second controller devices having different corresponding device type identifications are paired to the wireless network respectively, so that the wireless network enables communication between the pairing coordinator device, the first controller device, and the second controller device.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein: The updating of the device type identification for the two or more controller devices includes storing the updated device type identification at the two or more controller devices, respectively.

17. A pairing coordinator device for a bicycle, the pairing coordinator device comprising: a communication interface configured to communicate with a plurality of controller devices, the controller device type being the same for two or more of the plurality of controller devices, the communication interface configured to receive a corresponding device type identifier from each of the plurality of controller devices; one or more processors in communication with the communication interface, the one or more processors configured to: Establishing a pairing session via the communication interface, the pairing session allowing the plurality of controller devices to pair to a wireless network, the establishing of the pairing session comprising: identifying the controller device types for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifications for the two or more controller devices, respectively; Based on the identification of the controller device type, respectively updating the device type identifications for the two or more controller devices so that the updated device type identifications for the two or more controller devices are different from each other; and pairing only controller devices of the plurality of controller devices having different corresponding device type identifiers with the pairing coordinator device, thereby establishing the wireless network, the wireless network enabling communication between at least the pairing coordinator device and the controller device, The one or more processors are further configured to determine whether the plurality of controller devices are allocatable devices.

18. The pairing coordinator device according to claim 17, wherein: The device type identification is updated based on a time sequence in which the pairing coordinator device receives the corresponding device type identifications from the two or more controller devices.

19. The pairing coordinator device according to claim 18, wherein: The pairing session is a first pairing session, the wireless network is a first wireless network, the time sequence is a first time sequence, and the updated device type identification is a first updated device type identification, and Wherein, the one or more processors are further configured to: establishing, via the communication interface, a second pairing session allowing the plurality of controller devices to pair to a second wireless network, the establishing of the second pairing session subsequent to the establishing of the first pairing session, the establishing of the second pairing session comprising: receiving, via the communication interface, a respective device type identification from each of the plurality of controller devices in a second temporal order, the second temporal order being different from the first temporal order; identifying the controller device types for the two or more controller devices based on the received device type identifications for the two or more controller devices, respectively; Based on the identification of the controller device type, respectively updating the first updated device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, thereby respectively generating second updated device type identifiers for the two or more controller devices, the second updated device type identifiers being different from the first updated device type identifier; and Only controller devices of the plurality of controller devices having different corresponding device type identifications are paired with the pairing coordinator device, thereby establishing the second wireless network, which enables communication between at least the pairing coordinator device and the controller device.

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