Component for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to a component (10) for a human-powered vehicle (B). The component (10) mainly includes a power connection portion (44), an actuator (20), and a controller (24). The power supply connection portion (44) is configured to be electrically connected to a power supply (PS). The actuator (20) is electrically connected to the power supply connection portion (44). The controller (24) controls the actuator (20) with a supply current (C1) supplied from a power source. The supply current (C1) is limited on the basis of a comparison of the supply current (PC1) of the power supply and the threshold current (At). The controller (24) controls the actuator in a first state (S1) in which the supply current (C1) is a first current (C11) higher than the threshold current (At). The controller (24) controls the actuator (20) in a second state (S2) in which the supply current (C1) is a second current (C12) lower than the threshold current (At) after it controls the actuator (20) in the first state (S1) such that the supply current (C1) from the power source is not limited.

Description

Technical Field

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a component for a human powered vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a component for a human powered vehicle including a rechargeable power source. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, some human-powered vehicles have been provided with electrical components or devices to make operation of the human-powered vehicle easier. Examples of such components include suspension, transmission (e.g., derailleur, internal geared hub, etc.), and seatpost. Some of these components use power from an onboard power source, such as one or more batteries. The power source for the component needs to be replaced or needs to be recharged periodically. In the event that the power source for the component needs to be recharged periodically, the power source is either plugged into a remote charger or the power source is removed from the component and placed on the remote charger.

[0004] For proper operation of these electrical components, it is preferred to accurately detect the operating state of the power supply to protect the power supply from unusual conditions, such as overcharge, overdischarge, overcurrent, short circuit conditions, etc. In addition, it is also preferred that when these components are operating as required, the operation of these components is not interrupted by erroneously determining such an unusual condition of the power supply. Summary of the invention

[0005] Generally speaking, the present invention relates to various features of components for human-powered vehicles. The term "human-powered vehicle" as used herein refers to a vehicle that can be propelled by at least human-powered driving force to generate propulsion, but does not include vehicles that use only driving forces other than human power. In particular, vehicles that use only internal combustion engines as driving forces are not included in human-powered vehicles. Human-powered vehicles are generally considered to be a compact, light vehicle that sometimes does not require a driver's license to travel on public roads. The number of wheels on a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, and recumbent bicycles and electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes).

[0006] In view of the state of the known technology and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a component for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The component mainly includes a power connection part, an actuator and a controller. The power connection part is configured to be electrically connected to a power source. The actuator is electrically connected to the power connection part. The controller is configured to control the actuator using a power supply current provided from the power source. The power supply current is configured to be limited based on a comparison of a power supply current of the power source with a threshold current. The controller is configured to control the actuator in a first state in which the power supply current is higher than the threshold current. The controller is configured to control the actuator in a second state in which the power supply current is lower than the threshold current after the controller controls the actuator in the first state, so that the power supply current from the power source is not limited.

[0007] With the component according to the first aspect, it is possible to appropriately control the actuator by the controller while appropriately limiting the supply current provided from the power supply by the controller.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the invention, the component according to the first aspect is configured such that: the controller is configured to control the actuator with a first current for a first duration in a first state. The controller is configured to control the actuator with a second current for a second duration in a second state. The first current is higher than the second current. The first duration is longer than the second duration. With the component according to the second aspect, it is possible to limit the duration of continuous control of the actuator with a higher supply current to the first duration.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the invention, the component according to the second aspect is configured such that: the first duration is at least ten times the second duration. Using the component according to the third aspect, it is possible to properly control the actuator using a higher supply current while minimizing the impact of controlling the actuator with a lower supply current.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the component according to the second aspect or the third aspect is configured so that: the first duration is shorter than the first predetermined duration, and the supply current is configured to be limited in a limited state, in which the controller controls the actuator within the first predetermined duration. With the component according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to appropriately limit the supply current in the limited state.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the component according to the fourth aspect is configured such that: the power supply current is configured to be cut off in a state where the power supply current is higher than a threshold current within a first predetermined duration. With the component according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to appropriately cut off a higher power supply current.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the second to fifth aspects is configured such that: the controller is configured to drive the actuator in a third state in which the controller controls the actuator using the first current after the controller controls the actuator in the second state. With the component according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to repeatedly control the actuator with a higher supply current.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the component according to the sixth aspect is configured such that: the controller is configured to control the actuator with the first current for a third duration in the third state, and the first duration is equal to the third duration. With the component according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to limit the duration of continuous control of the actuator with a higher supply current to the first duration and a third duration equal to the first duration.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the component according to the sixth aspect is configured such that: the controller is configured to control the actuator with the first current for a third duration in the third state, and the first duration is different from the third duration. With the component according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to limit the duration of continuous control of the actuator with a higher supply current to the first duration and a third duration different from the first duration.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that: the controller is configured to stop driving the actuator in the second state. With the component according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to reduce the power supply current by stopping driving the actuator.

[0016] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is configured so that: the controller is configured to actuate the electrical part other than the actuator using the second supply current in the first state. Using the component according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to appropriately supply current in the first state to actuate the electrical part.

[0017] According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, the component according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured so that: the controller is configured to actuate the electrical part other than the actuator with the second supply current in the second state. With the component according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to appropriately supply current in the second state to actuate the electrical part.

[0018] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the component according to the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect is configured so that: the electrical portion includes a wireless communicator, and the wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly communicate with an operating device for operating the component. With the component according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to appropriately supply current to actuate the wireless communicator.

[0019] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured so that: the controller is further configured to intermittently drive the actuator. With the component according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to appropriately limit continuous control of the actuator.

[0020] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects further includes: a power receiving portion configured to receive power; and a first preventing portion configured to restrict installation of the power to the power receiving portion to a single installation orientation. With the component according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to easily install the power to the power receiving portion in a desired orientation.

[0021] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects further includes: a first terminal configured to be electrically connected to a first power terminal of a power source; and a power connection portion configured to be coupled to the power source without being electrically connected to a second power terminal of the power source. The second power terminal is configured to monitor information related to the temperature of the power source when the charging device is charging the power source. With the component according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the component while implementing measures for ensuring the operating state of the power source to the power source.

[0022] According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, a component for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The component mainly includes a power connection part, an actuator and a controller. The power connection part is configured to be electrically connected to a power source. The power connection part includes a first terminal. The actuator is electrically connected to the power connection part. The controller is configured to control the actuator. The first terminal is configured to be electrically connected to a first power terminal of the power source. The power connection part is configured to be connected to the power source but not electrically connected to the second power terminal of the power source. The second power terminal is configured to monitor information related to the temperature of the power source when the charging device is charging the power source.

[0023] With the component according to the sixteenth aspect, it is possible to simplify the configuration of the component while implementing measures for ensuring the operating state of the power supply to the power supply.

[0024] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that: the first power terminal is configured to be electrically connected to a current supply terminal of a charging device, and the second power terminal is configured to be electrically connected to a monitoring terminal of the charging device, so that the charging device monitors information related to the temperature of the power source. With the component according to the seventeenth aspect, it is possible to establish an electrical connection between the power source and the charging device for charging the power source and ensuring the operating state of the power source.

[0025] According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect is configured so that: the first power terminal and the second power terminal are exposed from the first surface of the power housing. Using the component according to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to easily establish an electrical connection using the first power terminal and the second power terminal.

[0026] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the sixteenth to eighteenth aspects is configured so that: the power source is configured to be mounted to the power source connection portion. With the component according to the nineteenth aspect, it is possible to mount the power source to the component via the power source connection portion.

[0027] According to the 20th aspect of the present invention, the component according to any one of the 16th to 19th aspects further includes: a power receiving portion configured to receive power; and a first preventing portion configured to limit the installation of the power to the power receiving portion to a single installation orientation. With the component according to the 20th aspect, it is possible to easily install the power to the power receiving portion in a desired orientation.

[0028] Furthermore, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the disclosed component will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred embodiments of the component. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Selected embodiments of the present invention will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 is a side view of a human powered vehicle or bicycle according to one embodiment;

[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 a side view of a bicycle transmission of the illustrated bicycle;

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 a side view of a bicycle derailleur shown with the outer cover removed from an outer link body of the bicycle derailleur;

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 a side view of a bicycle transmission shown with the power source further removed from the outer link body of the bicycle transmission;

[0034] Figure 5 is a simplified block diagram of the operating system of a bicycle transmission;

[0035] Fig. 6A is a timing diagram illustrating the operation of the protection circuit of the power supply in a protection operation state by activating the protection circuit;

[0036] Figure 6B is a timing diagram illustrating the operation of the protection circuit of the power supply in a protection operation state in which the protection circuit is not activated;

[0037] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing control timing of an actuator of a bicycle transmission;

[0038] Figure 8 It is a perspective view of the power supply;

[0039] Fig. 9 is a normal bottom view of a power receiving portion of a bicycle transmission, which shows a power connection portion of the bicycle transmission;

[0040] Fig.10 is a side view of an outer link body, wherein a power source is disposed within a hollow interior of the outer link body;

[0041] Fig.11 is a side view of the outer link body with the power source removed from the hollow interior of the outer link body;

[0042] Fig.12 is a simplified block diagram of a power supply showing electrical connections to a bicycle transmission;

[0043] Fig.13 is a simplified block diagram of a power supply showing electrical connections to a charging device;

[0044] Fig.14 is a simplified block diagram of a charging device showing electrical connections to an external power source and electrical connections to a power source;

[0045] Fig.15 is a front perspective view of a charging device;

[0046] Fig.16 is a rear perspective view of the charging device;

[0047] Fig.17 is a bottom perspective view of the charging device;

[0048] Fig.18 is a front view of the charging device, wherein a partial cross-sectional view shows an engagement claw of the charging device;

[0049] Fig.19 is a front perspective view of the charging device, showing a state where a power source is removed from the charging device;

[0050] Fig. 20 is a front perspective view of the charging device, showing a state where a power source is attached to the charging device; and

[0051] Fig.21is an exploded view of the charging unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the field of human-powered vehicles (eg, bicycles) from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0053] First reference Figure 1 , a human-powered vehicle B according to an illustrative embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, a bicycle is shown as an example of the human-powered vehicle B, so the bicycle is also referred to as the bicycle B. In the illustrated embodiment, a component 10 is provided for the human-powered vehicle B. In the illustrated embodiment, a bicycle transmission is shown as an example of the component 10, so the bicycle transmission is also referred to as the bicycle transmission 10. Here, the bicycle B is shown as an electric power-assisted bicycle. However, the bicycle transmission 10 can be applied to any other type of bicycle, such as a mountain bike, a cross-country bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, and a recumbent bike.

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle B includes a bicycle frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The bicycle frame F basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (swing arm). The bicycle frame F is also provided with a front fork FF and a handlebar H for steering the bicycle B. The bicycle B also includes an adjustable seat post SP coupled to the seat tube of the bicycle frame F for supporting a bicycle seat S at an upper end.

[0055] The bicycle B also includes a transmission system DT. Here, for example, the transmission system DT is a chain drive type, which includes a crank C, a front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets RS and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank axle CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crank axle CA1 is rotatably supported to the front frame body FB. The crank arms CA2 are provided at opposite ends of the crank axle CA1. The pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each of the crank arms CA2. The front sprocket FS is provided on the crank C to rotate integrally with the crank axle CA1. The rear sprocket RS is provided on the hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN extends around one of the rear sprockets RS and the front sprocket FS. The rider of the bicycle B applies a human driving force to the pedal PD, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FS, the chain CN and the rear sprocket RS. Although the transmission system DT is shown as a transmission system of a chain drive type, the transmission system DT may be selected from any type of transmission system and may be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type. Here, the bicycle B further includes a drive unit DU configured to apply a propulsive force to the crank axle CA1 of the bicycle B.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle transmission 10 is an electric rear transmission. The bicycle transmission 10 is configured to respond to signals from a bicycle computer CC ( Figure 5 ) or in response to a shift signal or command input by a user from an operating device OD (such as an electric shift lever) to move the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS. A power source BT is provided to the bicycle frame F for supplying power to various bicycle components. For example, the power source BT may be electrically connected to these bicycle components through a cable W to supply power thereto. Here, the power source BT is provided inside a down tube of the bicycle frame F. Alternatively, the power source BT may be provided to another portion of the bicycle frame F.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the following directional terms “front,” “rear,” “forward,” “rearward,” “left,” “right,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “upward,” and “downward,” and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions determined based on a rider sitting upright on the seat S of the bicycle B and facing the handlebars H of the bicycle B.

[0058] Reference now Figures 2 to 4 , the bicycle derailleur 10 will be discussed in more detail herein. The bicycle derailleur 10 basically includes a base member 12, a movable member 14 and a chain guide 16. The bicycle derailleur 10 also includes a link member 18. The link member 18 movably couples the movable member 14 to the base member 12. The base member 12 is configured to be attached to a frame F of a bicycle B using a fastener such as a fastening bolt. The movable member 14 is movably coupled to the base member 12 via the link member 18. The chain guide 16 is pivotally coupled to the movable member 14.

[0059] As described above, the link member 18 movably connects the movable member 14 to the base member 12. Specifically, the link member 18 is a link mechanism including an inner link 18A and an outer link 18B. As the bicycle derailleur 10 switches the chain CN in the lateral direction of the bicycle B, the inner link 18A and the outer link 18B enable the movable member 14 to move relative to the base member 12. Here, the inner link 18A and the outer link 18B are pivotally connected to the base member 12 and the movable member 14 to define a four-bar linkage mechanism. The four-bar linkage mechanism preferably also includes a biasing member (e.g., a torsion spring) interposed between the inner link 18A and the outer link 18B to absorb any play.

[0060] As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 is an electric rear derailleur. Therefore, here, the bicycle derailleur 10 also includes an actuator 20. Here, the bicycle derailleur 10 is also equipped with a supply source or power source PS for supplying power to various electrical components including the actuator 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the power source PS is a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery. Of course, the power source PS can be selected from any type of rechargeable battery. The power source PS is detachable and reattachable to the bicycle derailleur 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the power source PS is disposed on the outer link 18B, as described in detail later. The actuator 20 is configured to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12 in response to a shifting operation. The shifting operation may be a manual shifting operation, in which the operating device OD or some other operating device is operated to generate a shift signal, which is transmitted to the actuator 20 to operate the bicycle derailleur 10. The shifting operation may also be an automatic shifting operation, in which the shifting signal is transmitted to the actuator 20 by the bicycle computer CC ( Figure 5 ) generates a shift signal based on one or more operating conditions of bicycle B.

[0061] The actuator 20 may be any type of actuator as needed and / or desired. Therefore, the actuator 20 is not limited to the actuator 20 shown herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 20 is an electric actuator that is driven according to a shift signal transmitted as a wireless signal from the operating device OD or a shift signal transmitted through a cable W. The cable W may transmit the shift signal to the actuator 20 using a power line communication (PLC) or a dedicated signal line. In the case of the actuator 20 of the illustrated embodiment, an example of driving the actuator 20 according to a shift signal transmitted as a wireless signal from the operating device OD is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 20 includes a reversible motor and a gear reduction unit.

[0062] Here, the actuator 20 is provided to the base member 12. The electric motor of the actuator 20 is operatively connected to one of the inner link 18A and the outer link 18B of the link member 18 via a gear reduction unit to move the movable member 14 relative to the base member 12. In other words, the electric motor of the actuator 20 is configured to apply torque between the link member 18 and the base member 12 so that the link member 18 pivots relative to the base member 12.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 further includes an electrical control unit or board 22. The control unit 22 is disposed to the base member 12. Figure 5As shown, the control unit 22 includes an electric controller 24. The controller 24 includes a microcomputer or a central processing unit (CPU). The term "controller" used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program and does not include a person. The controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 using a supply current C3 provided from a power supply PS, as described later in Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 receives a shift signal transmitted from the operating device OD or the cycle computer CC, and generates a control signal to control various electrical components including the actuator 20.

[0064] The control unit 22 also includes at least one computer storage device or memory 26. The memory 26 is configured to store settings, programs, data, calculations and / or results of the controller 24. The memory 26 is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer readable medium, with the sole exception of transient propagating signals. For example, the memory 26 may include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and may include ROM (read only memory) devices, RAM (random access memory) devices, hard disks, flash drives, etc.

[0065] The control unit 22 also includes at least one electrical part or element in addition to the actuator 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical part includes a wireless communicator 28. In the illustrated embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the electrical part includes a detector 29. The wireless communicator 28 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the operating device OD for operating the bicycle shifter 10. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 receives the shift signal transmitted from the operating device OD or the bicycle computer CC via the wireless communicator 28 to generate a control signal to control the actuator 20. The wireless communicator 28 is a hardware device capable of wirelessly transmitting and / or receiving analog or digital signals via an antenna. The term "wireless communicator" as used herein includes a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, a transmitter-receiver, and contemplates any device / devices, alone or in combination, capable of transmitting and / or receiving wireless communication signals, including commands or other signals related to certain functions of the bicycle shifter 10 being controlled. The wireless communication signal may be a radio frequency (RF) signal with a frequency in the 2.4 GHz band or the 5.0 GHz band, an ultra-wideband communication signal, or a Bluetooth® communication or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the field of human-powered vehicles. In the illustrated embodiment, the detector 29 includes at least one of a position sensor 29a and a motion sensor 29b. The position sensor 29a is provided for detecting the operating position of the actuator 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the position sensor 29a includes a magnetic sensor. However, the position sensor 29a may be any type of sensing device for detecting the operating position of the actuator 20. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the operating position of the actuator 20 detected by the position sensor 29a may be used to control the actuator 20. The motion sensor 29b is provided for detecting the motion state of the bicycle B. In the illustrated embodiment, the motion sensor 29b includes an accelerometer. However, the motion sensor 29b may be any type of sensing device for detecting the motion state of the bicycle B. In the illustrated embodiment, the motion state of the bicycle B detected by the motion sensor 29b may be used for, for example, state control of the wireless communicator 28.

[0066] The control unit 22 further includes a drive circuit 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive circuit 30 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs). The drive circuit 30 receives a control signal from the controller 24 and drives the actuator 20 according to the control signal from the controller 24. In particular, the actuator 20 is electrically connected to the power supply PS through the drive circuit 30 and is driven by turning the power supply on / off through the drive circuit 30 according to the control signal from the controller 24.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 22 includes one or more circuit boards PCB on which the controller 24 , the memory 26 , the wireless communicator 28 , the detector 29 and the driving circuit 30 are mounted, and the one or more circuit boards PCB are arranged inside the base member 12 .

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply PS includes one or more protection circuits 62 ( Fig.12 and Fig.13 Each of the protection circuits 62 may include one or more integrated circuits. Each of the protection circuits 62 (herein, simply referred to as a “protection circuit”) monitors the operating state of the power source PS, such as the voltage and the power source current PC1 ( Fig. 6A , Figure 6B If the protection circuit detects an abnormal condition, such as over discharge, short circuit condition, or leakage current, the protection circuit stops supplying power to the electrical components of the bicycle transmission 10 for handling the abnormal condition.

[0069] For example, when the protection circuit detects the leakage current, the protection circuit of the power supply PS stops or reduces the supply current C3 ( Figure 7 ). In the illustrated embodiment, as in Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the protection circuit detects the presence of a leakage current in the case where the power supply current PC1 of the power supply PS exceeds the threshold current At within the first predetermined duration Pt. In the illustrated embodiment, the threshold current At is a predetermined threshold for detecting an overcurrent. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the threshold current At is set to 0.4±0.12 (amperes), while the first predetermined duration Pt is set to 2±0.5 (seconds).

[0070] Specifically, as in Fig. 6A As can be seen in FIG. 1 , once the power supply current PC1 of the power supply PS exceeds the threshold current At (timing t1), the counter of the protection circuit starts counting up. When the count of the counter reaches the first predetermined duration Pt, the protection circuit stops the power supply current PC1 and resets the count of the counter to zero (timing t2). In this case, the protection of the protection circuit has been activated to protect the power supply PS.

[0071] On the other hand, as in Figure 6BAs seen in FIG. 1 , once the power current PC1 of the power source PS exceeds the threshold current At (timing t3), the counter of the protection circuit also starts counting up. However, when the power current PC1 of the power source PS is lower than the threshold current At within a predetermined count reset threshold period before the count of the counter reaches the first predetermined duration Pt (between timing t4 and t5), the protection circuit will not be activated. Specifically, once the power current PC1 of the power source PS decreases below the threshold current At (timing t4), the counter of the protection circuit starts counting down (or maintaining the count of the counter), and after experiencing the counter reset threshold period Pr, the count of the counter is reset to zero (timing t5). When the electrical components of the bicycle transmission 10 (such as the actuator 20, the wireless communicator 28, the detector 29, etc.) stop operating, thereby reducing the electrical load of the bicycle transmission 10, Figure 6B The power supply current PC1 of the power supply PS shown will decrease. In the shown embodiment, the counter reset threshold period Pr is set to 50 μs (microseconds).

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the current or rated current drawn by the actuator 20 in its operating state, or the total current or total rated current drawn by the actuator 20 and the electrical parts other than the actuator 20 (i.e., the wireless communicator 28, the detector 29, etc.) in its operating state is higher than the threshold current At. In this case, even if it is necessary to continuously drive the actuator 20 (or both the actuator 20 and the electrical parts other than the actuator 20) for a longer period of time (e.g., 1.5 seconds) than the first predetermined duration Pt (e.g., 1.0 seconds), the protection circuit of the power supply PS stops the power supply current PC1 when the count of the counter reaches the first predetermined duration Pt (e.g., 1.0 seconds), as shown in FIG. Fig. 6A The protection circuit shown detects the leakage current. Fig. 6A As shown, when the count of the counter reaches the first predetermined duration Pt (e.g., 1.0 seconds), the protection circuit of the power supply PS stops the power supply current PC1 to protect the power supply PS, which will limit the supply of the power supply current C3 from the power supply PS to the bicycle transmission 10. As a result, the operation of the actuator 20 (or both the actuator 20 and the electrical parts other than the actuator 20) is stopped, and the actuator 20 (or both the actuator 20 and the electrical parts other than the actuator 20) is prevented from operating in a desired manner. Therefore, the power supply current C3 is configured to be limited based on a comparison of the power supply current PC1 of the power supply PS with the threshold current At. Specifically, the power supply current C3 is limited to not continuously have a current intensity exceeding the threshold current At for more than the first predetermined duration Pt. Therefore, the power supply current C3 is configured to be limited in a limited state in which the controller 24 controls the actuator 20 for the first predetermined duration Pt. In addition, as also shown Figure 7As shown by the dotted line in FIG. 1 , the supply current C3 is configured to be cut off when the power current PC1 is higher than the threshold current At within the first predetermined duration Pt.

[0073] To solve this problem, as in Figure 7 As seen in , the controller 24 is configured to intermittently drive the actuator 20. In particular, in response to receiving a shift signal for a desired shift operation from the operating device OD or the bicycle computer CC via the wireless communicator 28, the controller 24 intermittently outputs a control signal to the drive circuit 30 to intermittently drive or control the actuator 20 for implementing the desired shift operation. Specifically, the controller 24 repeats the intermittent output of the control signal (i.e., the intermittent control of the actuator 20) within the control duration Dt1 until the desired shift operation is completed. In response, the actuator 20 is intermittently driven and intermittently draws current according to the control signal. More specifically, as shown in Figure 7 As seen in FIG. 1 , the actuator 20 is driven by drawing current during intermittent operation periods D1, D3, ... (hereinafter, also referred to as the first duration D1, the third duration D3, ...). The intermittent operation periods D1, D3, ... correspond to the intermittent output of the control signal from the controller 24, respectively. In addition, the actuator 20 stops by stopping drawing current during the intermittent non-operation periods D2, ... (hereinafter, also referred to as the second duration D2, ...) between the intermittent operation periods D1, D3, .... Here, each of the intermittent outputs of the control signal (ie, each of the intermittent operation periods D1, D3, ...) only lasts for a continuous period shorter than the first predetermined duration Pt. In other words, each of the intermittent operation periods D1, D3, ... is shorter than the first predetermined duration Pt. Therefore, even if the control duration Dt1 required to complete the desired shift operation is longer than the first predetermined duration Pt, the protection of the protection circuit of the power supply PS will not be activated. Therefore, the actuator 20 is prevented from stopping before the desired shift operation is completed. Hereinafter, in the illustrated embodiment, a state in which the controller 24 outputs a control signal to the drive circuit 30 to drive the actuator 20 is also referred to as the controller 24 controlling or driving the actuator 20 (according to the control signal).

[0074] Further references Figure 7, the operation of the bicycle derailleur 10 will be described in more detail. In the illustrated embodiment, the current drawn by the actuator 20 from the power source PS is referred to as the actuator supply current C1. The actuator supply current C1 has a current intensity A1 in its operating state and a "zero" current intensity (i.e., 0 amperes) in its non-operating state. Similarly, the current drawn by at least one electrical part or element of the bicycle derailleur 10 other than the actuator 20 (such as the wireless communicator 28, the detector 29, etc.) from the power source PS is referred to as the second supply current C2. The second supply current C2 may also be referred to as the element supply current C2 and has a current intensity A2 in its operating state and a "zero" current intensity (i.e., 0 amperes) in its non-operating state.

[0075] Figure 7 The case where the current intensity A2 of the second supply current C2 is lower than the threshold current At is shown, and the current intensity of the supply current C3 supplied from the power source PS to the bicycle transmission 10 is substantially the same as the current intensity of the power current PC1 of the power source PS, and the total current intensity (i.e., A1+A2) of both the actuator supply current C1 and the second supply current C2 in their operating state is greater than the threshold current At. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 using the supply current C3 provided from the power source PS.

[0076] As described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 drives the actuator 20 intermittently. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the phrase "the controller 24 drives the actuator 20 intermittently" means that the controller 24 repeatedly drives the actuator 20 with the actuator supply current C1 of the current intensity A1 and then stops the actuator 20 by driving the actuator 20 with the actuator supply current C1 of "zero" current intensity. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator supply current C1 of the current intensity A1 is also referred to as the first current C11, and the actuator supply current C1 of "zero" current intensity is also referred to as the second current C12. However, it is not required that the actuator 20 is completely stopped between two subsequent times of driving the actuator 20 with the actuator supply current C1 of the current intensity A1 (i.e., the first current C11). The controller 24 may be configured to drive the actuator 20 at a lower power (i.e., an actuator supply current C1 having a current strength lower than the current strength A1) so that the power supply current PC1 becomes lower than the threshold current At between two subsequent times of driving the actuator 20 with the actuator supply current C1 having the current strength A1 (i.e., the first current C11). In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator supply current C1 having a current strength lower than the current strength A1 may also be referred to as a second current C12.

[0077] As in Figure 7As can be seen in FIG. 2 , while the controller 24 intermittently drives the actuator 20, the supply current C3 is limited. Specifically, the supply current C3 is limited to not continuously have a current intensity exceeding the threshold current At for a duration greater than the first predetermined duration Pt. In particular, during the control duration Dt1, the duration during which the controller 24 continuously controls the actuator 20 with the first current C11 (i.e., the actuator supply current C1 of the current intensity A1) is limited. In addition, the actuator supply current C1 is also limited to intermittently have a "zero" current intensity (or a current intensity lower than the current intensity A1).

[0078] As in Figure 7 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 in a first state in which the power supply current PC1 is higher than the threshold current At. Specifically, the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 with the first current C11 for a first duration D1 in the first state S1. In addition, the controller 24 is configured to actuate the electrical parts other than the actuator 20 with the second power supply current C2 in the first state S1. Therefore, in the first state S1, the power supply current C3 is approximately equal to the total current intensity (i.e., A1+A2) of both the actuator power supply current C1 and the second power supply current C2 in their operating state and is greater than the threshold current At.

[0079] Still like Figure 7 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 in a second state S2 in which the power supply current PC1 is lower than the threshold current At after the controller 24 controls the actuator 20 in the first state S1, so that the supply current C3 from the power supply PS is not limited. Specifically, the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 with the second current C12 for a second duration D2 in the second state S2. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 is configured to stop driving the actuator 20 in the second state S2. In addition, the controller 24 is configured to actuate the electrical parts other than the actuator 20 with the second supply current C2 in the second state S2. Therefore, in the second state S2, the supply current C3 is approximately equal to the current intensity A2 of the second supply current C2 in its operating state and is less than the threshold current At.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the first current C11 is higher than the second current C12. Figure 7As can be seen in , the first duration D1 is longer than the second duration D2. Preferably, the first duration D1 is at least ten times the second duration D2. Specifically, the range of the first duration D1 is between 50 milliseconds and 500 milliseconds. Preferably, the range of the first duration D1 is between 100 milliseconds and 250 milliseconds. On the other hand, the range of the second duration D2 is between 1 millisecond and 10 milliseconds. More preferably, the second duration D2 is 5 milliseconds. In particular, the second duration D2 is preferably set to be greater than the counter reset threshold period Pr to reset the counter of the protection circuit during the second duration D2, which further allows the protection circuit to operate in a desired manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the first duration D1 is shorter than the first predetermined duration Pt. In addition, the first predetermined duration Pt may be shorter than the control duration Dt1.

[0081] Similar to the first state S1, the controller 24 is configured to drive the actuator 20 in the third state S3 after the controller 20 controls the actuator 20 in the second state S2, in which the controller 24 controls the actuator 20 using the first current C11. Specifically, Figure 7 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20 with the first current C11 for a third duration D3 in the third state S3. In the illustrated embodiment, the first duration D1 is equal to the third duration D3. For example, the sum of the first duration D1 (i.e., the third duration D3) and the second duration D2 is set to 1.0 second, so that the controller 24 repeatedly outputs a control signal to the drive circuit 30 so as to drive the actuator 20 every one second (1.0 second). In this case, even if the first predetermined duration Pt is set to 1.0 second as described above, the controller 24 does not continue to drive the actuator 20 for more than the first predetermined duration Pt. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the protection circuit of the power supply PS from stopping the power supply current PC1 and stopping the operation of the actuator 20. Of course, alternatively, the first duration D1 may be different from the third duration D3. In addition, the controller 24 is configured to actuate the electrical parts other than the actuator 20 (i.e., the wireless communicator 28, the detector 29, etc.) with the second supply current C2 of the current intensity A2 in the third state S3. Therefore, in the third state S3, the supply current C3 is approximately equal to the total current intensity of the actuator supply current C1 and the second supply current C2 in their operating state (ie, A1+A2), and is greater than the threshold current At. Figure 7, an example is shown in which the control duration Dt1 is longer than the first predetermined duration Pt. Of course, if the control duration Dt1 is shorter than the first predetermined duration Pt, the controller 24 does not need to intermittently drive the actuator 20. On the contrary, in this case, the controller 24 continuously drives the actuator 20 within the control duration Dt1 (that is, the control duration Dt1 is formed only by the first duration D1 and not the second duration D2, the third duration D3, ...).

[0082] Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 controls the actuator 20, and the power supply current PC1 from the power supply PS is controlled due to the control of the actuator 20. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 does not directly control the power supply PS to control the power supply current PC1. However, the controller 24 may be configured to directly control the power supply PS or the power supply current PC1 as needed and / or desired.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle transmission 10 is shown as an example of a “component” of the present disclosure, and the control of the actuator 20 by the controller 24 of the bicycle transmission 10 is explained. However, the control of the actuator 20 by the controller 24 can be similarly applied to the control of the actuator of any other component of the bicycle B (such as, suspension, transmission (e.g., front derailleur, internal geared hub, etc.), seat post, etc.).

[0084] Return to reference Figures 2 to 4 , the configuration of the bicycle transmission 10 will be described in further detail. Figure 2 As seen in FIG. 1 , the outer link 18A includes an outer link body 32 and an outer cover 34. Figure 3 and Figure 4 As seen in the figure, the outer link body 32 has a power receiving portion 36. The power receiving portion 36 is configured to receive the power source PS. Specifically, the power receiving portion 36 serves as a battery holder or housing. The power receiving portion 36 has a hollow interior 38 with a lower end opening 40. In the illustrated embodiment, when the power source PS is mounted to the bicycle derailleur 10, the power source PS is inserted into the hollow interior 38 through the lower end opening 40 and is disposed inside the power receiving portion 36.

[0085] The outer cover 34 is detachable and reattachable to the outer link body 32. The outer cover 34 covers the lower portion of the outer link body 32 to close the lower end opening 40. When the outer cover 34 is attached to the outer link body 32, the outer cover 34 biases the power source PS via a biasing or spring mechanism 42 to ensure electrical connection between the power source PS and the bicycle shifter 10.

[0086] As in Figure 8As seen in the figure, the bicycle derailleur 10 includes a power connection portion 44. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 (e.g., component) basically includes the power connection portion 44, the actuator 20, and the controller 24. The power connection portion 44 is configured to be electrically connected to the power source PS. Here, the power connection portion 44 can be directly or indirectly connected to the power source PS. In addition, the power source PS is configured to be mounted to the power connection portion 44. In particular, the power connection portion 44 is provided to the closed upper end of the hollow interior 38 of the power receiving portion 36, so that when the power source PS is mounted to the bicycle derailleur 10, the power connection portion 44 contacts and is electrically connected to the power source PS.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the various electrical parts of the bicycle transmission 10 are internally electrically connected to the power connection part 44 for receiving a power supply from the power source PS. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 22 is electrically connected to the power connection part 44. Therefore, the controller 24 is configured to control the actuator 20. In addition, the actuator 20 is electrically connected to the power connection part 44.

[0088] As in Figure 8 As seen in the figure, the power connection portion 44 includes a first terminal 46. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the component 10 also includes the first terminal 46. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle shifter 10 (e.g., the component 10) includes a pair of power terminals as the first terminals 46. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the power terminals of the bicycle shifter 10 are also referred to as the power terminals 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the power terminals 46 are electrodes electrically connected to the power source PS to receive power supply from the power source PS when the power source PS is mounted to the bicycle shifter 10.

[0089] Specifically, if Fig. 9 As seen in the figure, the power supply PS includes a first power terminal 48 and a second power terminal 50. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the power supply PS includes a pair of positive and negative power terminals as the first power terminal 48 and a hot terminal as the second power terminal 50. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the power terminals of the power supply PS are also referred to as power terminals 48, and the hot terminals of the power supply PS are also referred to as hot terminals 50. The power terminals 48 are configured to discharge from the power supply PS and charge the power supply PS. In the illustrated embodiment, the first terminal 46 is configured to be electrically connected to the first power terminal 48. In other words, the power terminals 46 of the power connection portion 44 are configured to be electrically connected to the power terminals 48 of the power supply PS, respectively.

[0090] On the other hand, the second power supply terminal 50 is configured to be used when the power supply PS is supplied by the charging device ( Figures 15 to 21 ) The information related to the temperature of the power source PS is monitored while the CG is being charged. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Figure 8As seen in FIG. 4 , the power connection portion 44 does not include a terminal corresponding to the hot terminal 50 of the power source PS. Therefore, the power connection portion 44 is configured to be coupled to the power source PS without being electrically connected to the second power terminal 50 of the power source PS.

[0091] As in Fig. 9 As seen in FIG. 1 , the power supply PS includes a power supply housing 52. The first power terminal 48 and the second power terminal 50 are exposed from a first surface 52a of the power supply housing 52 of the power supply PS. In particular, the power terminal 48 and the hot terminal 50 are from the top surface of the power supply housing 52 of the power supply PS. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the top surface of the power supply housing 52 is also referred to as the top surface 52a. The power supply housing 52 has a substantially rectangular overall shape and has a top surface 52a, a bottom surface 52b opposite the top surface 52a, and a side surface 52c extending between the top surface 52a and the bottom surface 52b. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply PS includes a protrusion 54. When the power supply PS is mounted to the bicycle transmission 10 ( Figure 3 ), the protrusion 54 protrudes outward from one of the side surfaces 52c of the power source housing 52 that faces outward primarily in the lateral direction of the bicycle B. In particular, the protrusion 54 is located at a lower corner portion of the side surface 52c. The protrusion 54 indicates a proper installation orientation of the power source PS to the bicycle derailleur 10 and serves to restrict the installation of the power source PS to the bicycle derailleur 10 to the proper installation orientation of the power source PS.

[0092] Specifically, as in Fig.10 and Fig.11 As seen in FIG. 1 , the power receiving portion 36 of the outer link body 32 has a lower section 56. The lower section 56 extends axially along the longitudinal center axis of the hollow interior 38 in the insertion direction of the power source PS. The lower section 56 defines a lower portion of the hollow interior 38, and when the power source PS is installed to the bicycle derailleur 10, the lower portion of the power source PS is located in the lower portion of the hollow interior 38, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 In the illustrated embodiment, the lower section 56 does not completely or continuously surround the lower portion of the hollow interior 38 and includes a cutout or recess 58 that receives the protrusion 54 of the power source PS when the power source PS is installed to the bicycle derailleur 10. In other words, the lower section 56 extends continuously and circumferentially around the lower portion of the power source PS (except for the cutout 58) when the power source PS is installed to the bicycle derailleur 10.

[0093] Therefore, when the power supply PS is inserted into the power receiving portion 36 along the proper installation orientation of the power supply PS, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.11As shown, the lower section 56 does not contact the protrusion 54 and can receive the protrusion 54 within the cutout 58. Therefore, the lower section 56 allows the power supply PS to be installed along the proper installation orientation of the power supply PS. On the other hand, when the power supply PS is inserted into the power supply receiving portion 36 along the improper installation orientation of the power supply PS, the lower section 56 contacts the protrusion 54 and prevents the power supply PS from being installed to the bicycle derailleur 10. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the lower section 56 serves as a first preventing portion of the bicycle derailleur 10, and the protrusion 54 of the power supply serves as a second preventing portion, which cooperates with the first preventing portion to prevent the power supply PS from being improperly installed to the bicycle derailleur 10. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the first preventing portion is also referred to as the first preventing portion 56, and the second preventing portion is also referred to as the second preventing portion 54. Therefore, the component 10 also includes the power supply receiving portion 36 and the first preventing portion 56. The first preventing portion 56 is configured to limit the installation of the power supply PS to the power supply receiving portion 36 to a single installation orientation. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower section 56 and the protrusion 54 together form a prevention structure or mechanism of the bicycle B for preventing the power source PS from being improperly installed to the bicycle derailleur 10 .

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, an example is shown in which, when the power supply PS is mounted to the bicycle derailleur 10, the protrusion 54 protrudes outward from one of the side surfaces 52c of the power supply housing 52 that face outward in the lateral direction of the bicycle B. However, the protrusion 54 is not limited to this position. The protrusion 54 may be located on one of the side surfaces 52c of the power supply housing 52 that faces mainly inward in the lateral direction of the bicycle B or faces mainly forward (or backward) in the longitudinal direction of the bicycle B. In this case, the cutout 58 may also be provided at a position on the power supply receiving portion 36 that corresponds to the position of the protrusion 54. In addition, the cutout 58 is also not limited to the position of the protrusion 54. Fig.10 and Fig.11 The shapes or sizes shown may vary so long as the cutouts 58 can receive the protrusions 54 therein when the power source PS is inserted into the power receiving portion 36 in a proper mounting orientation of the power source PS.

[0095] Reference now Fig.12 and Fig.13 , the electrical configuration of the power supply PS will be discussed in more detail. Fig.12 and Fig.13 As seen in FIG. 8 , the power supply PS includes one or more battery cells 60 , a protection circuit 62 , one or more switch circuits 64 , a current detector 66 , a circuit breaker 68 , and a thermometer 70 .

[0096] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery unit 60 includes two battery cells (i.e., a first battery cell and a second battery cell). However, the battery unit 60 is not limited to this number and may include only a single battery cell or more than two battery cells. The battery unit 60 is housed in the power supply housing 52 by molding so that the battery unit is not removed from the power supply housing 52. The protection circuit 62 includes two protection integrated circuits (i.e., a first protection integrated circuit and a second protection integrated circuit). The first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 are functionally identical to each other and are replicated to serve as a backup in the event of a failure in one of the protection circuits. Similarly, the switch circuit 64 includes two switch circuits (i.e., a first switch circuit and a second switch circuit 64). The first switch circuit and the second switch circuit 64 are functionally identical to each other and are replicated to serve as a backup in the event of a failure in one of the protection circuits. Typically, the first switch circuit and the second switch circuit 64 include a charge / discharge FET, each of which has a pair of power MOSFETs connected in series back to back to each other for charging and discharging, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the power MOSFET is placed at the negative end of the power supply PS. However, alternatively, the power MOSFET may be placed at the positive end of the power supply PS. Of course, the switch circuit 64 may include any type of electrical element that is functionally equivalent to a charge / discharge FET. The first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 are respectively arranged corresponding to the first switch circuit and the second switch circuit 64 to control the turning on and off of the power MOSFETs of the first switch circuit and the second switch circuit 64, respectively, for managing the charging and discharging of the power supply PS. The current detector 66 is configured to measure the current flowing through the first battery cell and the second battery cell 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the current detector 66 includes, for example, a shunt register. Of course, the current detector 66 may include any type of electrical element that is functionally equivalent to a shunt register.

[0097] The first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 are electrically arranged relative to the first battery cell and the second battery cell 60 to monitor the voltage of each of the first battery cell and the second battery cell 60. The first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 are electrically arranged relative to the current detector 66 to monitor the voltage across the current detector 66 for measuring the current flowing through the first battery cell and the second battery cell 60. With this configuration, the first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 detect the operating state of the power supply PS, and if the first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 detect an abnormal condition (such as overcharge, overdischarge, overcurrent, short circuit condition, etc.), the first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 respectively control the turning on and off of the power MOSFETs of the first switch circuit and the second switch circuit 64 to resolve the abnormal condition.

[0098] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 has two thresholds for detecting abnormal conditions. One threshold is used to detect current leakage (e.g., Fig. 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 7 The threshold current At in the first battery unit and the second battery unit 60 is used to stop the current when the current exceeds the allowable current intensity of the first battery unit and the second battery unit 60. For example, when the power supply terminal 48 of the power supply PS contacts metal or when an actuator with a different rated or operating current is connected to the power supply PS, the current exceeding the allowable current intensity flows. If the measured current is within a predetermined time (for example, within Fig. 6A , 6B If the threshold value is exceeded within the first predetermined duration Pt in 7, the first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 automatically turn off the first switch circuit and the second switch circuit 64. Therefore, a microcomputer is not required because the first protection circuit and the second protection circuit 62 can automatically operate based on the threshold value and the predetermined time.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the positive pole of the first battery cell 60 is electrically connected to the positive power supply terminal 48 via a circuit breaker 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit breaker 68 includes a PCT device, which includes a resistor with a positive temperature coefficient. The PCT device has a low resistance during normal operating conditions of the power supply PS. If the temperature of the power supply PS rises excessively, the resistance of the PCT device increases accordingly to cut off the connection between the positive power supply terminal 48 and the first and second battery cells 60. Of course, the circuit breaker 68 may include any type of electrical component that is functionally equivalent to a PCT device. The negative pole of the second battery cell 60 is electrically connected to the negative power supply terminal 48 via a current detector 66 and a first switch circuit and a second switch circuit 64.

[0100] Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, a thermometer 70 is electrically connected between the negative power supply terminal 48 and the hot terminal 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the thermometer 70 comprises a thermistor, which comprises a resistor whose resistance increases according to the temperature of the power supply PS. Of course, the thermometer 70 may comprise any type of electrical component that is functionally equivalent to a thermistor. In the illustrated embodiment, as in Fig.12 As seen in FIG. 4 , the power connection portion 44 does not include a terminal corresponding to the hot terminal 50 of the power source PS. Therefore, when the power source PS is mounted to the bicycle derailleur 10, the hot terminal 50 is not electrically coupled to the bicycle derailleur 10.

[0101] On the other hand, as in Fig.13As seen in FIG. 1 , the charging device CG includes a current supply terminal having a pair of power terminals 72 and a monitoring terminal 74 electrically connected to a charging controller 76 of the charging device CG. In the present embodiment, when the power source PS is placed in the charging device CG for charging, the power source PS is electrically connected to the charging device CG. In particular, the first power terminal 48 is configured to be electrically connected to the current supply terminal of the charging device CG. In addition, the second power terminal 50 is configured to be electrically connected to the monitoring terminal 74 of the charging device CG, so that the charging device CG monitors information related to the temperature of the power source PS. In the illustrated embodiment, during the charging process, the charging controller 76 monitors the resistance value of the thermometer 70 through the monitoring terminal 74 connected to the hot terminal 50 of the power source PS, and stops charging the power source PS when the resistance value of the thermometer 70 reaches a predetermined threshold value, which means that the temperature of the power source PS has been excessively increased. In the illustrated embodiment, the charging controller 76 of the charging device CG monitors the resistance of the thermometer 70 as information related to the temperature of the power source PS. Of course, the charging controller 76 can calculate the temperature of the power source PS using the resistance of the thermometer 70. In addition, the charging controller 76 can retrieve any other information related to the temperature of the power source PS from the power source PS.

[0102] In the embodiment shown, also as in Fig.14 As can be seen in the figure, the charging device CG also includes a Type C socket 78, a USB control circuit 80, a converter 82, a control unit 84 and an LED 86. These electrical components of the charging device CG can be selected from conventional components, so for the sake of brevity, a detailed description of these electrical components will be omitted. The Type C socket 78 is a physical connector on the charging device CG, and the USB-C cable can be inserted into the Type C socket to receive power supply from an external power source. Of course, the charging device CG may include any type of connector for receiving power supply. The USB control circuit 80 establishes a connection between an external power source and the charging device CG, and detects the connection of the USB-C cable to the Type C socket 78. The USB control circuit 80 may include one or more integrated circuits. The converter 82 is a component that adjusts the voltage of the power supply from the external power source to supply the desired voltage to the control unit 84. The converter 82 includes an LDO (low voltage difference), but may be any type of converter, such as a DC / DC converter. The control unit 84 includes an electrical controller, a processor or a programmable computer that controls and manages various functions of the charging device CG. The control unit 84 monitors the connection between the external power source and the charging device CG and the connection between the power source PS and the charging device CG, and causes the charging controller 76 to operate to start or stop the charging operation or control the LED 86 to indicate the charging status.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the charging controller 76 includes a booster or boost converter 88 and a charging circuit 90. The booster 88 is a DC / DC converter electrically connected between the C-type socket 78 and the power terminal 72. The booster 88 increases the voltage level of the power supply from the external power source to the charging voltage level for charging the power supply PS. However, the booster 88 can be any type of converter as needed and / or desired. The charging circuit 90 can include one or more integrated circuits. The charging circuit 90 monitors the charging voltage and charging current of the booster 88 to detect the operating state of the charging device CG. The charging circuit 90 is also electrically connected to the monitoring terminal 74 to monitor the resistance of the thermometer 70 of the power supply PS for detecting the temperature of the power supply PS. Although the booster 88 and the charging circuit 90 are shown separately, the booster 88 and the charging circuit 90 can be formed as a single chip.

[0104] As in Figures 15 to 21 As seen in FIG. 1 , the charging device CG is configured to receive a power source PS for charging the power source PS. The charging device CG includes an outer shell 92 and an electrical unit 94 disposed within the outer shell 92. The outer shell 92 has a hollow interior 96 accessible through an open end 98 of the outer shell 92. The power source PS is placed within the hollow interior 96 through the open end 98 for charging the power source PS. The outer shell 92 has a main body 100 and an end piece 102, which is fixedly attached to the main body 100 to form a closed end 104 of the outer shell 92. When the end piece 102 is attached to the main body 100, the outer shell 92 also has a closed interior space 106 located between the main body 100 and the end piece 102. The electrical unit 94 is disposed within the closed interior space 106.

[0105] The body 100 has an upper section 100a, a lower section 100b, and an inner wall 100c. The upper section 100a mainly defines the hollow interior 96 therein, while the lower section 100b mainly defines the closed interior space 106 therein. The inner wall 100c is provided inside the outer shell 92 between the upper section 100a and the lower section 100b to separate the hollow interior 96 and the closed interior space 106 from each other.

[0106] When the power supply PS is attached to the charging device CG, the upper section 100a at least partially surrounds the power supply housing 52 of the power supply PS. The upper section 100a has opposing side walls 108 with side slots 110 so that the user's fingers can hold or pinch the power supply PS for removing the power supply PS from the charging device PS or placing the power supply PS into the charging device PS. Only one of the side walls 108 also has a cutout or recess 112, which receives the protrusion 54 of the power supply PS when the power supply PS is attached to the charging device CG. Therefore, when the power supply PS is inserted into the upper section 100a of the body 100 in the proper installation orientation of the power supply PS, as shown in FIG. Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, the upper section 100a does not contact the protrusion 54 and can receive the protrusion 54 in the cutout 112. On the other hand, when the power source PS is inserted into the upper section 100a of the main body 100 in an improper installation orientation of the power source PS, the upper section 100a contacts the protrusion 54 and prevents the power source PS from being installed to the charging device CG. Therefore, the charging device CG allows the power source PS to be installed in a single installation orientation of the power source PS.

[0107] The upper section 100a also has opposing side walls 114 that extend between the side walls 108 and at least partially define the open end 98 of the housing 92. Figures 15 to 18 As seen in the figure, the side wall 114 has an engagement claw 116 that forms a snap-fit ​​connection for holding the power supply PS when the power supply PS is attached to the charging device CG. Specifically, the engagement claw 116 engages with the power supply housing 52 of the power supply PS near the bottom surface 52b of the power supply PS when the power supply PS is attached to the charging device CG, and holds the power supply PS downward toward the inner wall 100c to ensure electrical contact between the power supply terminal 48 of the power supply PS and the power supply terminal 72 of the charging device CG and electrical contact between the hot terminal 50 of the power supply PS and the monitoring terminal 74 of the charging device CG. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end portion of the engagement claw 116 is chamfered so that the power supply PS is smoothly received in the charging device CG over the engagement claw 116. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the peripheral edge portion of the power supply housing 52 of the power supply PS located near the top surface 52a of the power supply PS may also be chamfered so that the power supply PS is smoothly inserted into the charging device CG over the engagement claw 116.

[0108] As in Fig.21 As seen in FIG. 1 , the electrical unit 94 includes one or more circuit boards or substrates on which electrical components (such as power terminals 72, monitoring terminals 74, charging controller 76, Type C socket 78, USB control circuit 80, converter 82, control unit 84, and LED 86) are disposed. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical unit 94 includes: a first substrate 94a on which the charging controller 76, Type C socket 78, USB control circuit 80, converter 82, and control unit 84 are mounted; a second substrate 94b on which the power terminals 72 and monitoring terminals 74 are disposed; and a third substrate 94c on which the LED 86 is disposed. Of course, the number of substrates and the mounting of electrical components thereon are not limited thereto and may vary as needed and / or desired.

[0109] As in Fig.21As seen in FIG. 1 , the end piece 102 of the housing 92 has an entry opening 102a through which the Type-C socket 78 enters to insert the USB-C cable therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner wall 100c has an opening through which the power terminals 72 and the monitoring terminals 74 of the charging device CG are exposed, so that when the power supply PS is attached to the charging device CG, the power terminals 72 and the monitoring terminals 74 of the charging device CG can contact the power terminals 48 and the thermal terminals 50 of the power supply PS, respectively. In addition, the lower section 100b has a window at a position corresponding to the LED 86 disposed within the closed internal space 106, so that the light from the LED 86 can be seen from the outside of the housing 92 of the charging device CG.

[0110] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle derailleur 10 is shown as an example of a “component” of the present disclosure, and the power source PS is shown attached to the bicycle derailleur 10. However, the electrical configuration or mechanical configuration of the power source PS can be similarly applied to a power source attached to any other component of the bicycle B (e.g., suspension, transmission (e.g., front derailleur, internal geared hub, etc.), seat post, etc.). For example, the arrangement of the hot terminal 50 of the power source PS can be similarly applied to a power source attached to any other component of the bicycle B. Furthermore, the disconnection of the hot terminal 50 from the bicycle derailleur 10 can be similarly applied between any other component of the bicycle B and a power source attached thereto. Furthermore, the mechanical configuration of the prevention structure (i.e., the first prevention portion 56 and the second prevention portion 54) of the bicycle B between the bicycle derailleur 10 and the power source PS can also be similarly applied between any other component of the bicycle B and a power source attached thereto.

[0111] In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open terms, which specify the presence of the features, elements, components, groups, integers and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other undescribed features, elements, components, groups, integers and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprises", "having" and their derivatives. In addition, when used in the singular, the terms "part", "section", "portion", "member" or "element" can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts, unless otherwise specified.

[0112] As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "vertical", and "lateral", and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with the component. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe the component should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the component. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" with reference to the right side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle), and "left" with reference to the left side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle).

[0113] The phrase "at least one" used in the present disclosure refers to "one or more" of the desired options. For example, the phrase "at least one of ..." used in the present disclosure, if the number of its options is two, it means "only a single option" or "both of the two options". For other examples, the phrase "at least one of ..." used in the present disclosure, if the number of its options is equal to or greater than three, it means "only a single option" or "equal to or greater than any combination of the two options". In addition, the term "and / or" used in the present disclosure means "one or both of ...". For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" covers: (1) A alone; (2) B alone; and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" covers: (1) A alone; (2) B alone; (3) C alone; (4) both A and B; (5) both B and C; (6) both A and C; and (7) all of A, B, and C. In other words, in the present disclosure, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one of A and at least one of B".

[0114] In addition, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component. Thus, for example, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0115] As used herein, the term "attached" or "attached" encompasses: a configuration in which an element is directly fixed to another element by directly attaching the element to the other element; a configuration in which the element is indirectly fixed to the other element by attaching the element to one or more intermediate members and the intermediate members are in turn attached to the other element; and a configuration in which one element is integrated with another element, meaning that the one element is essentially a part of the other element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "connect", "connect", "couple", "install", "combine", "fix" and their derivatives. Finally, as used herein, degree terms such as "substantially", "approximately" and "about" refer to the amount of deviation of the modified term so that the end result will not change significantly.

[0116] Although only selected embodiments are selected to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications may be made herein without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position or orientation of each component may be changed as needed and / or desired, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other may have an intermediate structure disposed therebetween, as long as these changes do not substantially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise clearly stated, the function of an element may be implemented by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of an embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages do not have to appear in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature that is unique compared to the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, shall be regarded as a separate description of the further invention by the applicant, including the structure and / or functional concepts embodied by these one or more features. Therefore, the foregoing description according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided only for illustration, rather than for limiting the invention defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Reference numerals list

[0117] 10 parts / bicycle derailleur

[0118] 12 Base member

[0119] 14 Movable components

[0120] 16 Chain guide

[0121] 18 Connecting rod

[0122] 18A inner connecting rod

[0123] 18B outer connecting rod

[0124] 20Actuator

[0125] 22 control unit / board

[0126] 24 Electric controller

[0127] 26Computer storage device / memory

[0128] 28 Wireless Communicator

[0129] 29 detectors

[0130] 29a Position Sensor

[0131] 29b Motion Sensor

[0132] 30 drive circuit

[0133] 32 outer connecting rod body

[0134] 34 outer cover

[0135] 36 Power receiving part

[0136] 38 Hollow interior

[0137] 40 bottom opening

[0138] 42 Bias / Spring Mechanism

[0139] 44 Power connection part

[0140] 46 First terminal / power terminal

[0141] 48 first power supply terminal

[0142] 50 Second power supply terminal

[0143] 52 power supply housing

[0144] 52a First surface / top surface

[0145] 52b bottom surface

[0146] 52c side surface

[0147] 54 protrusion (second preventing portion)

[0148] 56 lower section (first prevention part)

[0149] 58 cutouts / notches

[0150] 60 battery cells / first battery cell and second battery cell

[0151] 62 protection circuit / first protection circuit and second protection circuit

[0152] 64 switch circuit / first switch circuit and second switch circuit

[0153] 66 Current detector

[0154] 68 Circuit Breaker

[0155] 70 Thermometer

[0156] 72 power terminals

[0157] 74 monitoring terminal

[0158] 76 Charge Controller

[0159] 78C socket

[0160] 80USB control circuit

[0161] 82 Converter

[0162] 84 Control Unit

[0163] 86LED

[0164] 88Boost / Boost Converter

[0165] 90 Charging Circuit

[0166] 92 outer shell

[0167] 94 electrical units

[0168] 94a First substrate

[0169] 94b Second substrate

[0170] 94c Third substrate

[0171] 96 Hollow interior

[0172] 98 Open End

[0173] 100 main body

[0174] 100a upper section

[0175] 100b lower segment

[0176] 100c inner wall

[0177] 102 end components

[0178] 102a Entrance opening

[0179] 104 Closed End

[0180] 106 Closed Internal Space

[0181] 108 opposite side walls

[0182] 110 side slot

[0183] 112 cutouts / notches

[0184] 114 Opposite side walls

[0185] 116 Engagement claw

[0186] At threshold current

[0187] A1 Current Strength

[0188] A2 Current Strength

[0189] B Human-powered vehicles / bicycles

[0190] BT Power

[0191] C crank

[0192] C1 actuator supply current

[0193] C11 first current

[0194] C12 Second Current

[0195] C2 Second supply current / component supply current

[0196] C3 supply current

[0197] CA1 crankshaft

[0198] CA2 pair of crank arms

[0199] CC Cycling Computer

[0200] CG charging device

[0201] CN Chain

[0202] D1 first duration (intermittent operation period)

[0203] D2 Second duration (intermittent non-operating period)

[0204] D3 The third duration (intermittent operation period)

[0205] DT transmission system

[0206] Dt1 controls the duration

[0207] DU drive unit

[0208] F Bicycle frame

[0209] FB front frame

[0210] FF front fork

[0211] FS front sprocket

[0212] FW front wheel

[0213] H handlebar

[0214] OD operating device

[0215] PCB circuit board

[0216] PC1 supply current

[0217] PD Pedal

[0218] Pr counter reset threshold period

[0219] PS power supply

[0220] Pt first predetermined duration

[0221] RB rear frame / swing arm

[0222] RS Multiple Rear Sprockets RS

[0223] RW rear wheel

[0224] S Bicycle Seat

[0225] S1 first state

[0226] S2 Second State

[0227] S3 third state

[0228] SP adjustable seat post

[0229] W Cable

Claims

1. A component for a human-powered vehicle, the component comprising: a power connection portion configured to be electrically connected to a power source; an actuator electrically connected to the power connection portion; and a controller configured to control the actuator using a supply current provided from the power supply, the supply current configured to be limited based on a comparison of a supply current of the power supply with a threshold current, The controller is configured to control the actuator in a first state in which the power supply current is higher than the threshold current, The controller is configured to control the actuator in a second state in which the power supply current is lower than the threshold current after the controller controls the actuator in the first state so that the supply current from the power supply is not limited.

2. The component according to claim 1, wherein the controller being configured to control the actuator with a first current for a first duration in the first state, the controller being configured to control the actuator with a second current for a second duration in the second state, The first current is higher than the second current, and The first duration is longer than the second duration.

3. The component according to claim 2, wherein: The first duration is at least ten times greater than the second duration.

4. A component according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The first duration is shorter than a first predetermined duration, and The supply current is configured to be limited in a limited state in which the controller controls the actuator for the first predetermined duration.

5. The component according to claim 4, wherein The power supply current is configured to be cut off in a state where the power supply current is higher than the threshold current for the first predetermined duration.

6. A component according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein The controller is configured to drive the actuator in a third state in which the controller controls the actuator with the first current after the controller controls the actuator in the second state.

7. The component according to claim 6, wherein The controller is configured to control the actuator with the first current for a third duration in the third state, and The first duration is equal to the third duration.

8. The component according to claim 6, wherein The controller is configured to control the actuator with the first current for a third duration in the third state, and The first duration is different from the third duration.

9. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein The controller is configured to stop driving the actuator in the second state.

10. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein The controller is configured to actuate the electrical part other than the actuator with a second supply current in the first state.

11. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein The controller is configured to actuate the electrical part other than the actuator with a second supply current in the second state.

12. A component according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The electrical portion includes a wireless communicator, and The wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly communicate with an operating device for operating the component.

13. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein The controller is also configured to intermittently drive the actuator.

14. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising: a power receiving portion configured to receive the power; and A first preventing portion is configured to restrict installation of the power source to the power receiving portion to a single installation orientation.

15. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising: a first terminal configured to be electrically connected to a first power terminal of a power source; and The power connection portion is configured to be coupled to the power source without being electrically connected to a second power terminal of the power source, The second power terminal is configured to monitor information related to a temperature of a power source when a charging device is charging the power source.

16. A component for a human-powered vehicle, the component comprising: a power connection portion configured to be electrically connected to a power source, the power connection portion comprising a first terminal; an actuator electrically connected to the power connection portion; and a controller configured to control the actuator, the first terminal being configured to be electrically connected to a first power terminal of the power supply, The power connection portion is configured to be coupled to the power source without being electrically connected to a second power terminal of the power source, and The second power terminal is configured to monitor information related to a temperature of a power source when a charging device is charging the power source.

17. The component according to claim 16, wherein The first power supply terminal is configured to be electrically connected to a current supply terminal of the charging device, and The second power terminal is configured to be electrically connected to a monitoring terminal of the charging device so that the charging device monitors information related to the temperature of the power source.

18. A component according to claim 16 or 17, wherein The first power terminal and the second power terminal are exposed from a first surface of the power housing.

19. A component according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein The power source is configured to be mounted to the power connection portion.

20. The component according to any one of claims 16 to 19, further comprising: a power receiving portion configured to receive the power; and A first preventing portion is configured to restrict installation of the power source to the power receiving portion to a single installation orientation.

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