Bicycle component

Abstract

A bicycle component is basically provided with a processor and a wireless communicator. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the processor. The wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a signal. The signals selectively include a first signal and a second signal. The first signal corresponds to a first application program. The second signal corresponds to a second application. The wireless communicator is configured to transmit a second signal in response to receiving an instruction from the remote communication device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a bicycle component, a system including the bicycle component and a remote communication device including a first application (app) and a second application, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for the bicycle component, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for the remote communication device. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, some human-powered vehicles such as bicycles are provided with electric bicycle components or devices to make it easier for a rider to operate the human-powered vehicle. Some of these bicycles are provided with a bicycle wireless system in which the bicycle components communicate wirelessly with each other. Examples of these electric bicycle components include a suspension, a shifting device (e.g., a derailleur, an internal gear hub, etc.), and a seat post. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally speaking, the present disclosure relates to various features of a bicycle component that wirelessly communicates with a remote communication device, a system including the bicycle component that wirelessly communicates with the remote communication device, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for the bicycle component that wirelessly communicates with the remote communication device, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for the remote communication device that wirelessly communicates with the bicycle component.

[0004] In view of the state of the art, according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a bicycle component substantially including a processor and a wireless communicator. The wireless communicator is electrically connected to the processor. The wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit signals. The signals selectively include a first signal and a second signal. The first signal corresponds to a first application. The second signal corresponds to a second application. The wireless communicator is configured to transmit the second signal in response to receiving an instruction from a remote communication device.

[0005] With the bicycle component according to the first aspect, a user can easily switch between the first application and the second application.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to the first aspect is configured such that the first application is installed in the remote communication device. The first signal includes a first connection signal for connecting to the bicycle component using the first application. The wireless communicator is configured to establish a wireless connection between the wireless communicator and the remote communication device using the first connection signal.

[0007] With the bicycle component according to the second aspect, wireless communication can be easily and securely established between the bicycle component and the first application.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to the second aspect is configured such that the first connection signal includes identification information of the bicycle component.

[0009] By using the bicycle component according to the third aspect, a secure wireless communication can be easily established between the bicycle component and the first application.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to the second or third aspect is configured such that an instruction is sent from the remote communication device in a state where the wireless communication is established.

[0011] By using the bicycle component according to the fourth aspect, the remote communication device can communicate with the bicycle component securely.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to any one of the second to fourth aspects is configured such that the first signal includes a first data signal. The wireless communicator is configured to send the first data signal in a state where a wireless connection is established using the first connection signal. The first data signal includes first information related to the bicycle.

[0013] By using the bicycle component according to the fifth aspect, the first information related to the bicycle can be provided to the first application via the first data signal.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to any one of the second to fifth aspects further includes a storage device configured to store pairing information related to pairing with the remote communication device. The processor is configured to perform a pairing process with the remote communication device in response to receiving an instruction when the storage device does not store the pairing information.

[0015] By using the bicycle component according to the sixth aspect, the remote communication device and the bicycle component can communicate wirelessly without performing pairing every time a wireless connection is established.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to any one of the second to sixth aspects is configured such that the processor is configured to perform a prohibition process of prohibiting reconnection with the remote communication device within a predetermined time after disconnecting from the remote communication device.

[0017] By using the bicycle component according to the seventh aspect, the bicycle component can be completely disconnected from the remote communication device before reconnection.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to the seventh aspect is configured such that the processor is configured not to perform the prohibition process when the processor receives an instruction from the remote communication device.

[0019] With the bicycle component according to the eighth aspect, if a user wishes to connect a device different from the remote communication device, the user can override the prohibition process.

[0020] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to any one of the second to eighth aspects is configured such that a second application program is installed in the remote communication device. The second signal includes a second connection signal for connecting to the bicycle component using the second application program. The wireless communicator is configured to establish a wireless connection using the second connection signal. The wireless communicator is configured to disconnect from the remote communication device before connecting to the remote communication device using the second connection signal in a state where the wireless communicator has established a wireless connection with the remote communication device using the first connection signal.

[0021] With the bicycle component according to the ninth aspect, a user can switch between the first application program and the second application program using a single remote communication device.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the second signal includes a second data signal. The wireless communicator is configured to transmit the second data signal in a state where a wireless connection is established using the second connection signal. The second data signal includes second information related to the bicycle.

[0023] With the bicycle component according to the tenth aspect, second information related to the bicycle can be provided to the second application program via the second data signal.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to any one of the first to eighth aspects is configured such that a second application program is installed in the remote communication device. The second signal includes a second connection signal for connecting to the bicycle component using the second application program. The wireless communicator wirelessly connects to the remote communication device using the second connection signal.

[0025] With the bicycle component according to the eleventh aspect, wireless communication can be easily and securely established between the bicycle component and the second application program.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the bicycle component according to any one of the ninth to eleventh aspects is configured such that the second connection signal includes identification information of the bicycle component.

[0027] With the bicycle component according to the twelfth aspect, secure wireless communication can be easily established between the bicycle component and the second application program.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle component according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured such that a remote communication device is configured to generate an instruction in response to receiving a user operation on the remote communication device.

[0029] With the bicycle component according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to easily switch between a first application and a second application in response to receiving a user operation on the remote communication device.

[0030] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle component according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects is configured such that a wireless communicator is configured to transmit a first signal in response to receiving an instruction in which a user operation is associated with connecting to the bicycle component using a first application on the remote communication device. The wireless communicator is configured to transmit a second signal in response to receiving an instruction in which a user operation is associated with connecting to the bicycle component using a second application.

[0031] With the bicycle component according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to easily switch the wireless communication of the bicycle component between one of the first application and the second application and the other of the first application and the second application. Accordingly, the user can input a user operation in the first application or the second application to disconnect the wireless communication between the bicycle component and the remote communication device, and then reconnect the wireless communication between the bicycle component and the other of the first application and the second application.

[0032] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle component according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects is configured such that the wireless communicator is configured to change a signal from a first signal to a second signal in response to receiving an instruction in a state where the wireless communicator has established a wireless connection with the remote communication device using a first connection signal.

[0033] With the bicycle component according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to easily switch the wireless communication of the bicycle component from the first application to the second application.

[0034] According to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle component according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects is configured such that the bicycle component includes a speed change device.

[0035] With the bicycle component according to the sixteenth aspect, information related to the speed change device of the bicycle can be provided to the user via the remote communication device.

[0036] According to a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle component according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured such that the bicycle component includes a sensor.

[0037] With the bicycle component according to the seventeenth aspect, the driving information or performance information of the bicycle detected by the sensor can be provided to the user via the remote communication device.

[0038] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system including a bicycle component according to any one of the first aspect to the seventeenth aspect. The system further includes a remote communication device, and the remote communication device includes a first application and a second application.

[0039] With the system according to the eighteenth aspect, a single remote communication device can include a first application and a second application, such that the remote communication device includes the first application and the second application.

[0040] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non - transitory computer - readable storage medium storing program instructions. The program instructions can be executed by a processor of the bicycle component. The processor is electrically connected to a wireless communicator of the bicycle component. The program instructions are configured to: cause the wireless communicator to wirelessly transmit a first signal corresponding to the first application; and cause the wireless communicator to wirelessly transmit a second signal corresponding to the second application in response to receiving an instruction from the remote communication device.

[0041] With the non - transitory computer - readable storage medium according to the nineteenth aspect, the bicycle component can be easily programmed to wirelessly communicate with the first application and the second application.

[0042] According to a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a non - transitory computer - readable storage medium storing remote program instructions. The remote program instructions can be executed by a remote processor of the remote communication device. The remote processor is electrically connected to a remote wireless communicator of the remote communication device. The remote wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicator of the bicycle component. The wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a first signal corresponding to the first application and is configured to wirelessly transmit a second signal corresponding to the second application. The remote program instructions are configured to: cause the remote wireless communicator to wirelessly transmit an instruction to the wireless communicator. The instruction from the remote wireless communicator is configured to instruct the processor of the bicycle component to cause the wireless communicator to transmit the second signal.

[0043] With the non - transitory computer - readable storage medium according to the twentieth aspect, the remote communication device can be easily programmed to wirelessly communicate with the bicycle component, thereby receiving signals regarding the first application and the second application.

[0044] In addition, the following detailed description will make other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed bicycle components, systems, and the disclosed non-transitory computer-readable storage medium apparent to those skilled in the art. The detailed description discloses preferred embodiments of the bicycle components in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Reference is now made to the drawings, which form a part of this original disclosure, and which illustrate selected embodiments.

[0046] Figure 1 FIG. is a side elevational view of a bicycle equipped with a plurality of bicycle components (e.g., rear derailleur, front suspension, rear suspension, adjustable seat post, crank arm, power meter, drive unit, etc.) in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 2 is Figure 1 A side elevational view of a crank arm (i.e., a bicycle component) of the illustrated bicycle having a power meter (i.e., a bicycle component).

[0048] Figure 3 FIG. is a schematic block diagram of a crank arm having a power meter in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 4 is Figure 1 A side elevational view of a rear derailleur (i.e., a bicycle component) of the illustrated bicycle.

[0050] Figure 5 FIG. is a schematic block diagram of a rear derailleur in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 6 is configured to wirelessly communicate with Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of a remote communication device configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more bicycle components (e.g., rear derailleur and / or power meter) of the illustrated bicycle.

[0052] Figure 7 FIG. is a diagrammatic view of a remote communication device wirelessly communicating with one bicycle component (e.g., rear derailleur or power meter) in accordance with a first embodiment.

[0053] Figure 8 FIG. is a first flowchart of wireless communication between a remote communication device and a bicycle component (e.g., rear derailleur or power meter) in accordance with a first embodiment.

[0054] Figure 9 FIG. is a second flowchart of wireless communication between a remote communication device and a bicycle component (e.g., rear derailleur or power meter) in accordance with a first embodiment.

[0055] Figure 10Is a flowchart of wireless communication between a telecommunication device and a bicycle component (e.g., a rear derailleur or a power meter) according to a first embodiment.

[0056] Figure 11 Is a first telecommunication device configured to wirelessly communicate with Figure 1 one or more bicycle components (e.g., a rear derailleur and / or a power meter) of the bicycle shown in accordance with a second embodiment.

[0057] Figure 12 Is a second telecommunication device configured to wirelessly communicate with Figure 1 one or more bicycle components (e.g., a rear derailleur and / or a power meter) of the bicycle shown in accordance with a second embodiment.

[0058] Figure 13 Is a diagrammatic view of wireless communication between a first telecommunication device and a second telecommunication device and a bicycle component (e.g., a rear derailleur or a power meter) according to a second embodiment.

[0059] Figure 14 Is a flowchart of wireless communication between a telecommunication device and a bicycle component (e.g., a rear derailleur or a power meter) according to a second embodiment. Detailed Description

[0060] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles that the following description of the embodiments is for illustration only and not for limiting the present invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0061] First, referring to Figure 1 , a bicycle B equipped with a system 10 according to the illustrated embodiment is shown. Here, in the first embodiment, the system 10 basically includes at least one bicycle component BC and a telecommunication device ED. In the second embodiment, the system 10 basically includes at least one bicycle component BC, a telecommunication device ED, and a bicycle computer CC. Although Figure 1 the telecommunication device ED is shown as a smartphone not mounted to the bicycle B, it will be apparent from the present disclosure that the telecommunication device ED can be mounted to the bicycle B. In the case of the first embodiment, the bicycle computer CC can be omitted, and the telecommunication device ED can be mounted to the bicycle B in place of the bicycle computer CC. Further, although the telecommunication device ED is preferably the illustrated smartphone, the telecommunication device ED can be other mobile devices such as a smartwatch, wireless earphones, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, etc.

[0062] Here, the bicycle computer CC can also be referred to as the first telecommunication device, and the telecommunication device ED can be referred to as the second telecommunication device. The term "remote" as used herein refers to a device or application (software application) that is physically separated from the bicycle component BC. Here, the telecommunication device ED can also be referred to as an external device other than the bicycle computer.

[0063] In the first embodiment, as described below, the telecommunication device ED includes two applications (software applications) for wirelessly communicating with one or more of the bicycle components BC. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the bicycle computer CC includes a first application configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more of the bicycle components BC, and the telecommunication device ED includes a second application configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more of the bicycle components BC. Here, the telecommunication device ED has one or more primary functions such as a telephone function, a messaging function, a web browsing function, etc., and secondary functions of the first application and / or the second application. In other words, the telecommunication device ED has at least one primary function in addition to the secondary functions related to the bicycle. The term "bicycle component BC" as used herein generally refers to all bicycle components of the bicycle B that are configured to wirelessly communicate with the telecommunication device ED and / or the bicycle computer CC. Components or parts of the bicycle B that cannot perform wireless communication will not be referred to as "bicycle component BC" herein.

[0064] The first application and the second application are configured to display or otherwise notify the user of information related to the bicycle B. The first application is different from the second application. For example, the first application displays real-time data about the bicycle B, such as various operating conditions of the bicycle component BC and other operating conditions of the bicycle such as GPS, bicycle speed, cadence, pedaling force, etc., while the second application provides maintenance, software updates, diagnostics, setting adjustments, etc. for the bicycle component BC. In any case, the first application and the second application are configured to receive data from the bicycle component BC and process the data from the bicycle component BC. The first application and the second application cannot be connected to the same bicycle component BC at the same time. To switch between the first application and the second application, the currently running application needs to disconnect from the bicycle component BC before the other application can connect to the bicycle component BC. In other words, the wireless communication between the bicycle component BC and the telecommunication device ED or the bicycle computer CC needs to be disconnected when switching between the first application and the second application.

[0065] In Figure 1In the figure, bicycle B is illustrated as an electric bicycle (e-bike) that is propelled using the driving force of an electric motor in addition to the driving force of human power. However, system 10 can be applied to any other type of bicycle such as, for example, a mountain bike, a cross-country bike, a gravel bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, and a recumbent bike. Bicycle B is equipped with a plurality of bicycle components BC. Basically, in system 10, the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC are configured to wirelessly communicate with the bicycle components BC. However, the bicycle components BC cannot wirelessly communicate with both the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC simultaneously. In addition, in the case of the first embodiment, the bicycle components BC cannot wirelessly communicate with two applications of the remote communication device ED simultaneously.

[0066] As Figure 1 shown, bicycle B includes a vehicle body VB supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The vehicle body VB basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB (swing arm). The rear derailleur 12 is mounted to the rear frame body RB in a conventional manner. The vehicle body VB is also provided with handlebars H. The operating device 14 is preferably configured to be mounted to the handlebars H in a conventional manner. For example, the operating device 14 is mounted to the right side of the handlebars H, near the inner end of the right hand grip portion. The rear derailleur (i.e., bicycle component BC) is configured to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS in response to an automatic shift signal from the bicycle computer CC or a shift signal input by the user from the operating device 14 (i.e., bicycle component BC).

[0067] Here, bicycle B also includes a front suspension fork 16 (i.e., bicycle component BC) and a rear shock absorber 18 (i.e., bicycle component BC). The upper end of the front suspension fork 16 is pivotally coupled to the front frame body FB, and the lower end thereof rotatably supports the front wheel FW. The rear frame body RB is swingably mounted to the rear section of the front frame body FB such that the rear frame body RB can pivot relative to the front frame body FB. The rear wheel RW is mounted to the rear end of the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber 18 is operatively provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber 18 is provided between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control the movement of the rear frame body RB relative to the front frame body FB. That is, the rear shock absorber 18 absorbs the shock transmitted from the rear wheel RW. Here, bicycle B includes a seat tube mounted to the front frame body FB in a conventional manner and an adjustable seat post 20 that supports a bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner.

[0068] Bicycle B further includes a drivetrain DT. Here, for example, the drivetrain DT is of a chain drive type, which includes a crank 22, at least one front sprocket FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS, and a chain CN. The crank 22 includes a crankshaft 22a and a pair of crank arms 22b. The crankshaft 22a is rotatably supported by the front frame body FB via an electric assist unit E. The crank arms 22b are provided at opposite ends of the crankshaft 22a. The pedals PD are rotatably coupled to the distal ends of each crank arm 22b. Although the drivetrain DT is illustrated as a chain drive type drivetrain, the drivetrain DT can be selected from any type of drivetrain and can be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type. The front sprocket FS is provided on the crank 22 to rotate integrally with the crankshaft 22a. The rear sprockets CS are provided on the hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN extends around the front sprocket FS and the rear sprockets CS. A human driving force is applied by a rider to the pedals PD, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprocket FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets CS.

[0069] Here, as Figure 2 shown, one of the crank arms 22b is provided with a power meter 24 (i.e., a bicycle component BC). The power meter 24 is configured to calculate the pedaling force applied to one or both of the crank arms 22b. The power meter 24 can be a device independent of the crank 22 or can be integrated with the crank 22. The power meter 24 will be discussed in further detail below.

[0070] Return reference Figure 1 , bicycle B further includes a drive unit 26 as a bicycle component BC. Basically, the drive unit 26 includes an electric motor configured to apply a propulsive force to bicycle B. Here, the crankshaft 22a is integrated into the drive unit 26. The crankshaft 22a is operatively connected to the electric motor of the drive unit 26 such that the crankshaft 22a is rotated by the electric motor of the drive unit 26. Since drive units for assisting the propulsive force of bicycles are well known in the bicycle field, the drive unit 26 will not be described in further detail.

[0071] As Figure 1 shown, bicycle B further includes a power source 28. Here, the power source 28 is a battery pack including one or more batteries. Here, for example, the power source 28 is located in the down tube of the bicycle frame. Alternatively, the power source 28 can be attached to the outer surface of the bicycle frame. The power source 28 preferably includes one or more rechargeable batteries. The power source 28 is configured to supply power to the drive unit 26 and the rear derailleur 12. Specifically, as Figure 1As shown, the drive unit 26 is electrically connected to the power source 28. The rear derailleur 12 is electrically connected to the electrical connector of the drive unit 26. In other words, here, the rear derailleur 12 receives power from the power source 28 via the drive unit 26. Alternatively, the rear derailleur 12 may be directly connected to the power source 28 to directly receive power from the power source 28. When the drive unit 26 is in the off mode, the power from the power source 28 is disconnected from the rear derailleur 12. Thus, when the drive unit 26 is turned on, the power from the power source 28 is supplied to the rear derailleur 12.

[0072] Now referring to Figure 4 , the rear derailleur 12 generally includes a base member 30, a movable member 32, and a linkage structure 34. The rear derailleur 12 is an example of a shifting device. Thus, in the system 10, the bicycle component BC includes a shifting device. The linkage structure 34 is configured to movably connect the movable member 32 relative to the base member 30. Specifically, the base member 30 is mounted to the rear frame body RB, and the linkage structure 34 movably connects the movable member 32 to the base member 30. In this way, the movable member 32 is capable of moving relative to the base member 30 in the lateral direction of the bicycle B. Here, the rear derailleur 12 further includes a chain guide 36. The chain guide 36 is configured to be pivotally coupled to the movable member 32 about a pivot axis P1. The chain guide 36 is configured to move the chain CN between multiple sprockets of a sprocket assembly to change the shift (gear) stage. The chain guide 36 is configured to contact the chain CN to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS when the movable member 32 moves relative to the base member 30 in the lateral direction of the bicycle B.

[0073] The rear derailleur 12 further includes an actuator 38 that is disposed on one of the base member 30, the movable member 32, and the linkage structure 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 38 is disposed on the base member 30. However, the actuator 38 may be disposed on the movable member 32 or the linkage structure 34 as needed and / or desired. In any case, the actuator 38 is operatively coupled to the linkage structure 34. In other words, the actuator 38 is operatively coupled to the linkage structure 34 to move the linkage structure 34 relative to the base member 30 in response to a shift command. Here, the actuator 38 is an electric motor. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear derailleur 12 constitutes an electric rear derailleur. Preferably, as Figure 4 shown, the chain guide 36 generally includes a pair of chain cage plates 40, a guide pulley 42, and a tension pulley 44. The guide pulley 42 and the tension pulley 44 are both rotatably disposed between the chain cage plates 40. Since rear derailleurs such as the rear derailleur 12 are well known in the bicycle art, the rear derailleur 12 will only be discussed to the extent necessary to understand the system 10.

[0074] As described above, the rear derailleur 12, the operating device 14, the front suspension fork 16, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seat post 20, the crank 22 having the power meter 24, and the drive unit 26 are examples of the bicycle components BC that wirelessly communicate with the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED. Figure 1 The bicycle B of Figure 1 does not include a front derailleur and an internal gear shifting device. Alternatively, the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED can also be used with a bicycle having a front derailleur and / or an internal gear shifting device as the bicycle components BC that wirelessly communicate with the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED. All of these bicycle components BC wirelessly transmit the first information to the first application program, which is set to the bicycle computer CC or the remote communication device ED, or set to both the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED. In addition, all of these bicycle components BC wirelessly transmit the second information to the second application program, which is set to the remote communication device ED. Of course, it will be apparent from the present disclosure that only one bicycle component BC can be configured to wirelessly communicate with the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED. In other words, one or more of the bicycle components BC can be configured to wirelessly communicate with the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED as needed and / or desired. Generally speaking, in the case of the first embodiment, the system 10 includes the bicycle component BC and also includes the remote communication device ED, wherein the remote communication device ED includes the first application program and the second application program. In other words, in the first embodiment, the first application program is installed in the remote communication device ED. In addition, in the first embodiment, the second application program is installed in the remote communication device ED.

[0075] In the case of the first application program, the bicycle component BC transmits a first data signal including the first information related to the bicycle. In the first embodiment, the first information related to the bicycle is transmitted to the first application program installed in the remote communication device ED. For example, the first information includes, among other things, at least one of (1) the first shifting information, (2) the first traveling information, and (3) the first other device information. Generally, the first information of the first data signal is related to specific information related to the bicycle component that transmits the first data signal.

[0076] The first shift information includes, for example, at least one of a shift pattern, a shift interval, a gear position, adjustment information, and a sprocket combination. Here, the term "shift pattern" refers to the current shift pattern such as a synchronous shift pattern, an automatic shift pattern, and a normal shift pattern. Here, the term "gear position" includes the current gear position and the maximum gear position, such as 8, 10, 11, 12, or 13 in the case of a rear derailleur, and 1, 2, or 3 in the case of a front derailleur. Here, the term "adjustment information" refers to an adjustment value for a shifting device (e.g., a rear derailleur, a front derailleur, an internal gear hub). Preferably, the adjustment value can be set by a user in an adjustment mode. Based on these values, the position of the shifting device (such as a rear derailleur, a front derailleur, and an internal gear hub) is changed. Here, the term "sprocket combination" refers to the number of teeth of each sprocket. The travel information includes, for example, at least one of a travel state, torque information, speed information, cadence information, travel time, and travel distance. The other device information includes, for example, at least one of an assist mode of a drive unit, a position of a suspension, and a position of an adjustable seat post.

[0077] In the case of the second application, the bicycle component BC transmits a second data signal including second information related to the bicycle B. In the first embodiment, the second information related to the bicycle is transmitted to a second application installed in the telecommunication device ED. For example, the second information includes, among other things, at least one of (1) second shift information, (2) second travel information, (3) second other device information, and (4) identification information. Generally, the second information of the second data signal is related to specific information associated with the bicycle component that transmits the second data signal. The second shift information, the second travel information, and the second other device information may be the same as the first shift information, the first travel information, and the first other device information, respectively. Alternatively, the second shift information, the second travel information, and the second other device information may be different from the first shift information, the first travel information, and the first other device information, respectively.

[0078] The second shift information may include, for example, background information such as the interval between multiple shifts. Generally, the background information is not displayed on the user interface of the telecommunication device ED (e.g., a smartphone). As a variant, the second travel information may be omitted. The second other device information may include, for example, the assignment of buttons of a shifting device. The identification information may include, for example, the serial number of the bicycle component, the model of the bicycle component, and the firmware version of the bicycle component.

[0079] For the sake of brevity, the communication of selected bicycle components BC (i.e., the rear derailleur 12 and the crank 22) will be discussed in more detail only with respect to the system 10. Basically, in the system 10, the bicycle component BC includes a processor and a wireless communicator. Additionally, preferably, the bicycle component BC further includes a storage device. The storage device is configured to store pairing information related to the pairing with the remote communication device ED. As an example, the rear derailleur 12 and the crank 22 will be discussed as examples of the bicycle component BC in the system 10.

[0080] Now turning to Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 6 , the crank 22 includes a power meter 24 and is configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote communication device ED ( Figure 6 ), the remote communication device ED includes a first application and a second application. Specifically, the crank 22 includes a controller 45 and a wireless communicator 46. Here, for example, the controller 45 and the wireless communicator 46 are disposed on a circuit board 52. Additionally, here, the crank 22 includes a sensor 48, the sensor 48 is configured to measure the rotational force or pedaling force applied to the crank arm 22b. Thus, in the system 10, the bicycle component BC includes a sensor. Here, the controller 45 and the wireless communicator 46 are disposed in the housing of the power meter 24, while the sensor 48 is applied to one of the crank arms 22b. Since power meters such as the power meter 24 are well known in the bicycle field. Therefore, the power meter 24 will only be briefly discussed herein.

[0081] Preferably, the controller 45 includes at least one processor 45A. Additionally, preferably, the controller 45 includes at least one storage device 45B (i.e., a computer storage device). Alternatively, the storage device 45B may be separately disposed from the controller 45. Here, the controller 45 further includes a measurement circuit 45C, the measurement circuit 45C is configured to calculate the rotational force or pedaling force applied to the crank arm 22b. Thus, the crank 22 is an example of the bicycle component BC that includes the processor 45A and the wireless communicator 46. Additionally, the crank 22 is an example of the bicycle component BC that further includes the storage device 45B. The storage device 45B is configured to store pairing information related to the pairing with the remote communication device ED.

[0082] Specifically, one or both of the crank arms 22b are provided with a sensor 48. As described above, the sensor 48 is configured to measure the rotational force or pedaling force applied to the crank arm 22b. The terms "sensor" and "detector" as used herein refer to a hardware device or instrument designed to detect the presence or absence of a specific event, object, substance, or a change in its environment and to emit a response signal. The terms "sensor" and "detector" as used herein do not include humans. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the sensor 48 may include a strain sensor, a magnetostrictive sensor, a pressure sensor, etc. Preferably, the sensor 48 includes one or more strain gauges disposed on a substrate that is attached to a portion of the crank arm 22b by an adhesive. Force sensors are conventional sensors well known in the bicycle field. Accordingly, the sensor 48 will only be briefly discussed herein.

[0083] The sensor 48 is configured to output a change in resistance depending on the amount of deformation of the crank arm 22b. In other words, the sensor 48 is configured to output a change in resistance depending on the amount of deformation of the crank arm 22b due to pedaling the pedal. The measurement circuit 45C is electrically connected to the sensor 48 to convert the output of the force sensor 48 into a voltage indicative of the amount of deformation of the crank arm 22b. For example, the measurement circuit 45C and the sensor 48 form a bridge circuit. The measurement circuit 45C is connected to the sensor 48 through a flexible printed circuit board. The wireless communicator 46 can then transmit the calculated pedaling force and / or cadence to the remote communication device ED.

[0084] Reference Figure 3 , the controller 45 may be a microprocessor or a central processing unit (CPU) including a processor 45A and a storage device 45B. The controller 45 is formed by one or more semiconductor chips mounted on a circuit board. The term "electronic controller" or "controller" as used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program and does not include humans.

[0085] The storage device 45B is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, except for transitory propagated signals. For example, the storage device 45B is connected to the processor 45A. The storage device 45B stores, for example, a control program and information for controlling a process. The storage device 45B includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes at least one of, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM). Thus, the storage device 45B includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium provided for storing program instructions thereon. Specifically, the storage device 45B has stored a wireless communication program for wirelessly communicating with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. The storage device 45B has stored a data providing program for providing data to the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. The storage device 45B has stored a pairing program for pairing with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. The storage device 45B has also stored various identification information of the crank 22 and the power meter 24.

[0086] Basically, the wireless communicator 46 is electrically connected to the processor 45A. The wireless communicator 46 is configured to wirelessly transmit signals. The signals selectively include a first signal and a second signal. The first signal corresponds to a first application program. The second signal corresponds to a second application program. Thus, the wireless communicator 46 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. More specifically, the wireless communicator 46 is configured to transmit and receive wireless signals to and from the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. Thus, for example, the wireless communicator 46 can be a wireless transceiver. The wireless communication signal can be a radio frequency (RF) signal, an ultra-wideband communication signal, radio frequency identification (RFID), ANT+ communication, communication, BLE communication, or any other type of signal understood in the bicycle field suitable for short-range wireless communication. Preferably, the wireless communicator 46 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC using the BLE communication protocol. As described below, the program instructions can be executed by the processor 45A of the bicycle component BC. The processor 45A is electrically connected to the wireless communicator 46 of the bicycle component BC. As described below, the program instructions are configured to: cause the wireless communicator 46 to wirelessly transmit the first signal corresponding to the first application program; and cause the wireless communicator 46 to wirelessly transmit the second signal corresponding to the second application program in response to receiving an instruction from the remote communication device ED.

[0087] Now refer to Figures 4 to 6, the rear derailleur 12 is configured to wirelessly communicate with a remote communication device ED( Figure 6 ), and the remote communication device ED includes a first application program and a second application program. Specifically, the rear derailleur 12 further includes a controller 50 configured to operate the actuator 38 in response to receiving a shift command. In other words, the controller 50 operates the actuator 38 in response to receiving a shift command from the operating device 14 to move the link structure 34 and the chain guide 36 in the lateral direction of the bicycle B. Here, for example, the controller 50 is provided on the circuit board 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit board 52 is provided in the housing of the actuator 38. The controller 50 is an electronic controller including one or more processors 54, and the processor 54 executes a predetermined derailleur control program for operating the actuator 38. The processor 54 of the controller 50 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). The controller 50 may include one or more microcomputers.

[0088] The rear derailleur 12 further includes a storage device 56. Here, the storage device 56 is provided on the circuit board 52 of the controller 50. Alternatively, or additionally, the storage device 56 may be provided separately from the controller 50. The storage device 56 stores a control program and information for executing the motor control process of the shift operation. The storage device 56 includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, except for transient propagation signals. For example, the storage device 56 includes non-volatile memory and volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, random access memory (RAM). Therefore, the storage device 56 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium provided for storing program instructions thereon. Specifically, the storage device 56 has stored a wireless communication program for wirelessly communicating with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. The storage device 56 has stored a data providing program for providing data to the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. The storage device 56 has stored a pairing program for pairing with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC. The storage device 56 has also stored various identification information of the rear derailleur 12.

[0089] Preferably, the controller 50 further includes an actuator (motor) driver 58 for driving the actuator 38. The actuator driver 58 is electrically connected to the controller 50. The actuator driver 58 drives the actuator 38 according to a control signal from the controller 50. Preferably, the controller 50 and the actuator driver 58 are disposed in the housing of the actuator 38. For example, the controller 50 and the actuator driver 58 may be disposed on the same circuit board or on separate circuit boards. Here, the actuator driver 58 is a drive circuit disposed on the circuit board 52. The actuator driver 58 includes an inverter circuit.

[0090] Still referring to Figure 5 , the rear derailleur 12 further includes a position sensor 60 configured to detect the movement of the actuator 38. The position sensor 60 includes at least one of a potentiometer, an optical interrupter, a rotational sensor, and a rotary encoder. Here, for example, the position sensor 60 is an encoder configured to detect the movement of at least a part of the gear reduction unit of the actuator 38. Specifically, the position sensor 60 is configured to sense the state or change of a magnetic field. The controller 50 is configured to calculate the rotational angle of one of the gears in the gear reduction unit based on the change of the magnetic field sensed by the position sensor 60. Here, the position sensor 60 is disposed on the circuit board 52. A magnet is fixed to a part of the gear reduction unit of the actuator 38. Thus, if the gear reduction unit rotates according to the operation of the actuator 38, the position sensor 60 can sense the change in the state of the gear reduction unit of the actuator 38.

[0091] Basically, the controller 50 is configured to monitor the detection value of the position sensor 60. The controller 50 determines the current gear position of the rear derailleur 12 based on the detection value of the position sensor 60 relative to a predetermined value stored in the storage device 56. In this way, the controller 50 can determine the current gear position of the rear derailleur 12 based on the detection value of the position sensor 60.

[0092] As Figure 5 shown, the rear derailleur 12 further includes a wireless communicator 62 configured to wirelessly communicate with the operating device 14, the bicycle computer CC, and the remote communication device ED. More specifically, the wireless communicator 62 is configured to transmit and receive wireless signals to and from the bicycle computer CC and the remote communication device ED. Specifically, the wireless communicator 62 is electrically connected to the processor 54. The wireless communicator 62 is configured to wirelessly transmit signals. The signals selectively include a first signal and a second signal. The first signal corresponds to a first application program. The second signal corresponds to a second application program.

[0093] In addition, the wireless communicator 62 receives a wireless signal from the operating device 14. Thus, for example, the wireless communicator 62 can be a wireless transceiver. The wireless communication signal can be a radio frequency (RF) signal, an ultra-wideband communication signal, radio frequency identification (RFID), ANT+ communication, communication, BLE communication, or any other type of signal applicable to short-range wireless communication understood in the bicycle field. Preferably, the wireless communicator 62 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the remote communication device ED and the bicycle computer CC using the BLE communication protocol. Program instructions are executed by the processor 54 of the bicycle component BC. The processor 54 is electrically connected to the wireless communicator 62 of the bicycle component BC. The program instructions are configured to: cause the wireless communicator 62 to wirelessly transmit a first signal corresponding to a first application; and cause the wireless communicator 62 to wirelessly transmit a second signal corresponding to a second application in response to receiving an instruction from the remote communication device ED.

[0094] Thus, the rear derailleur 12 is an example of the bicycle component BC including the processor 54 and the wireless communicator 62. In addition, the rear derailleur 12 is an example of the bicycle component BC further including the storage device 56. The storage device 56 is configured to store pairing information related to the pairing with the remote communication device ED.

[0095] Now referring to Figure 6 , a remote communication device ED is schematically shown. The remote communication device ED is configured to wirelessly communicate with the bicycle component BC (e.g., the rear derailleur 12 and the crank 22). The remote communication device ED is preferably a smart phone. Alternatively, the remote communication device ED can be any portable device capable of wirelessly communicating with the bicycle component. Specifically, the remote communication device ED includes a processor 70, a storage device 72, and a remote wireless communicator 73. The storage device 72 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium provided for storing remote program instructions thereon. The program instructions are executed by the remote processor 70 of the remote communication device ED. The remote processor 70 is electrically connected to the remote wireless communicator 73 of the remote communication device ED. The remote wireless communicator 73 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle component BC. The wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to wirelessly transmit a first signal corresponding to a first application and are configured to wirelessly transmit a second signal corresponding to a second application. The remote program instructions are configured to: cause the remote wireless communicator 73 to wirelessly transmit an instruction to the wireless communicators 46, 62. The instruction from the remote wireless communicator 73 is configured to instruct the processors 45A, 54 of the bicycle component BC to cause the wireless communicators 46, 62 to transmit the second signal.

[0096] Programs for the first application and the second application are stored in the storage device 72. The storage device 72 has also stored a wireless communication program for wirelessly communicating with the bicycle component BC. The storage device 72 has stored a pairing program for pairing with the bicycle component BC. The storage device 72 has also stored various identification information of the remote communication device ED.

[0097] Since remote communication devices such as smartphones are well known, the remote communication device ED will not be discussed in detail here. Here, in the first embodiment, the remote communication device ED includes both the first application and the second application. The first application is preferably a software application that provides selected bicycle-related information to the user based on a first signal from one or more bicycle components BC. The first application can be configured to provide information similar to a bicycle computer. The second application is preferably a software application that allows the user to diagnose the bicycle component BC, modify the function of the bicycle component, and / or update the software of the bicycle component.

[0098] Now turning to Figures 7 to 9 , the basic communication between the bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED will now be discussed in the case of the first embodiment. As Figure 7 shown, in the first embodiment, at least one of the bicycle components BC communicates wirelessly with the remote communication device ED, and the remote communication device ED includes both the first application and the second application. In Figure 8 this case, the bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED have stored identification information of each other in order to communicate using an appropriate communication protocol. Thus, for example, the identification information of the remote communication device ED is pre-stored in the storage devices 45B and 56 of the bicycle component BC, and the identification information of the bicycle component BC is pre-stored in the storage device 72 of the remote communication device ED. In other words, Figure 8 shows the communication between at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED, where at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED have been paired, or a wireless connection has been previously established. On the other hand, Figure 9 shows the communication between at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED, where at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED are not paired, or a wireless connection has not been previously established. Thus, Figure 9 shows an example of the communication for pairing at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED. Of course, not all communication protocols require a pairing process. In other words, a point-to-point communication link can be established between at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED without performing a pairing process.

[0099] Referring to Figure 8, which shows the basic communication that occurs between at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED when neither the first application nor the second application is connected to the bicycle component BC. Thus, when the user wishes to communicate with the bicycle component BC using the first application or the second application of the remote communication device ED, the user inputs a user operation to the remote communication device ED to send an instruction. The instruction for using the first application may also be referred to as the first instruction. Thus, the first instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to start communicating with the first application of the remote communication device ED. The instruction for using the second application may also be referred to as the second instruction. Thus, the second instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to start communicating with the second application of the remote communication device ED.

[0100] Figure 8 shows a communication example that occurs when the user initially wishes to use the first application and then switches from the first application to the second application. Generally, in the first embodiment, the user touches the input section 74 on the touch screen of the remote communication device ED to send the first instruction to the bicycle component BC. Alternatively, the user operation may simply be to open the first application, and the first application then automatically generates and sends the first instruction. In either case, the remote communication device ED is configured to generate an instruction in response to receiving a user operation on the remote communication device ED. Basically, the instruction is sent from the remote communication device ED in a state where wireless communication is established. In this way, the instruction is sent from the first application of the remote communication device ED to the bicycle component BC. Since the user wishes to use the first application, the first instruction is sent to the bicycle component BC. As Figure 8 shown, the first instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to send a first signal including a first connection signal. The first connection signal is received by the first application to start running the first application. The bicycle component BC intermittently sends the first signal to the first application at a predetermined interval. These subsequent transmissions of the first signal include a first data signal. Then, when the user wishes to switch from the first application to the second application, the user touches the input section 74 on the touch screen of the remote communication device ED to send the second instruction to the bicycle component BC. In this way, the bicycle component BC is instructed to disconnect from the first application and send a second signal including a second connection signal. The second connection signal is received by the second application to start running the second application. The bicycle component BC intermittently sends the second signal to the second application at a predetermined interval. These subsequent transmissions of the second signal include a second data signal. The user can switch back to the first application by touching the input section 74 on the touch screen of the remote communication device ED to send the first instruction to the bicycle component BC.

[0101] More specifically, the telecommunication device ED is configured to receive a user operation using the input unit 74 in a state where a wireless connection is established. Here, the input unit 74 is illustrated as a pair of icons 74A and 74B on the touch screen of the telecommunication device ED. However, the input unit 74 is not limited to the icons 74A and 74B on the touch screen. The input unit 74 can be, for example, a mechanical button or a mechanical switch. Further, although the input unit 74 is illustrated as a pair of buttons or icons 74A and 74B (images on the touch screen), it will be apparent from the present disclosure that different input units can be used depending on the current screen displayed on the telecommunication device ED. Here, for example, when the first application is running and when the second application is running, the "disconnect button" 74A and the "switch application button" 74B can be simultaneously displayed on the telecommunication device ED as the input unit 74. If the user touches the disconnect button 74A, the telecommunication device ED only disconnects the wireless connection and does not send any instructions.

[0102] However, if the user touches the switch application button 74B (i.e., the input unit 74), the telecommunication device ED disconnects the wireless connection and sends an instruction to send a first signal or a second signal depending on whether the first application or the second application is currently running. In this way, the user can easily and quickly switch from the first application to the second application and from the second application to the first application. In Figure 8 , for example, in a case where the first application is running, the user touches the switch application button 74B to send a second instruction for connecting to the bicycle component BC using the second application to the bicycle component BC. In this case, the second instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to disconnect the communication with the first application and intermittently send a second signal. Here, at least the initial transmission of the second signal includes a second connection signal, and at least the subsequent transmission of the second signal includes a second data signal. In this way, the second information related to the bicycle B transmitted in the second data signal can be displayed on the telecommunication device ED according to the second application.

[0103] On the other hand, in a case where the second application is running, the user touches the switch application button 74B (i.e., the input unit 74) to send a first instruction for connecting to the bicycle component using the first application to the bicycle component BC. In this case, the first instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to disconnect the communication with the second application and intermittently send a first signal. Here, at least the initial transmission of the first signal includes a first connection signal, and at least the subsequent transmission of the first signal includes a first data signal. In this way, the first information related to the bicycle B transmitted in the first data signal can be displayed on the telecommunication device ED according to the first application.

[0104] When the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle component BC receive an instruction from the first application, the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle component BC send a first signal. As described above, the instruction from the first application may also be referred to as the first instruction. The first instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to start communicating with the first application of the remote communication device ED. In other words, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to send a first signal in response to receiving an instruction in which a user operation is associated with connecting to the bicycle component BC using the first application on the remote communication device ED. The first signal includes a first connection signal, which is used to connect to the bicycle component BC using the first application. In other words, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to establish a wireless connection between the wireless communicators 46, 62 and the remote communication device ED using the first connection signal. In this way, the remote communication device ED is configured to allow the first instruction to be sent in a state where the wireless connection is established. The first connection signal includes identification information of the bicycle component BC. In this way, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are wirelessly connected to the first application of the remote communication device ED. Therefore, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to send a first data signal in a state where a wireless connection is established using the first connection signal. In addition, the first signal includes a first data signal. The first data signal includes first information related to the bicycle B. The first information is as described above. Preferably, the first connection signal is not sent after the wireless connection has been established. Instead, the first data signal is sent after the wireless connection has been established.

[0105] Therefore, the type of data signal changes according to which signal is used to establish the wireless connection. Specifically, if the first connection signal is used for the wireless connection, the first data signal is sent by the bicycle component BC. On the other hand, if the second connection signal is used for the wireless connection, the second data signal is sent by the bicycle component BC.

[0106] When the user wishes to switch from the first application of the remote communication device ED to the second application of the remote communication device ED, the user inputs a user operation to the remote communication device ED. For example, the remote communication device ED has an input unit 74 for the user to input a user operation to the remote communication device ED. Preferably, the input unit 74 is accessible to the user without first switching from the first application to the second application. In other words, when the user presses the input unit 74, the remote communication device ED will automatically disconnect the connection between the first application and the bicycle component BC and open the second application. Alternatively, the user operation may be to close the first application and open the second application. In this case, closing the first application disconnects the first application from the bicycle component BC, and opening the second application will start the communication process of the bicycle component BC communicating with the second application.

[0107] Therefore, when the user inputs a user operation to use the second application, the remote communication device ED is configured to generate an instruction in response to receiving the user operation on the remote communication device ED. In other words, in this case, the instruction generated from the remote communication device ED can be referred to as the second instruction. The second instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to start communicating with the second application of the remote communication device ED. Basically, the second instruction is sent from the remote communication device ED in a state where the wireless communication is established. In this way, the second instruction is sent from the second application of the remote communication device ED to the bicycle component. When the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle component BC receive the second instruction from the second application, the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle component BC send a second signal. In other words, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to change the signal from the first signal to the second signal in response to receiving the instruction in a state where the wireless communicators 46, 62 have established a wireless connection with the remote communication device ED using the first connection signal. Specifically, the second signal includes a second connection signal that is used to connect to the bicycle component BC using the second application. The wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to establish a wireless connection using the second connection signal. Therefore, the wireless communicators 46, 62 wirelessly connect to the remote communication device ED using the second connection signal. Specifically, the second connection signal includes the identification information of the bicycle component BC. In this way, the wireless communicators 46, 62 wirelessly connect to the second application of the remote communication device ED. Preferably, the second connection signal is not sent after the wireless connection has been established. Instead, a second data signal is sent after the wireless connection has been established.

[0108] Preferably, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to disconnect from the remote communication device ED before connecting to the remote communication device ED using the second connection signal in a state where the wireless communicators 46, 62 have established a wireless connection with the remote communication device ED using the first connection signal. The second signal further includes a second data signal. The wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to send the second data signal in a state where a wireless connection is established using the second connection signal. As described above, the second data signal includes second information related to the bicycle B.

[0109] Of course, the user can first start communicating with the bicycle component BC through the second application of the remote communication device ED. Thus, when the user wishes to use the second application of the remote communication device ED to communicate with one or more bicycle components BC, the user opens the second application and inputs a user operation to the remote communication device ED using the input unit 74. Alternatively, the user operation may be to open the second application. In either case, the remote communication device ED is configured to generate an instruction in response to receiving a user operation on the remote communication device ED. Basically, the instruction is sent from the remote communication device ED in a state where wireless communication is established. Then, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to send a second signal in response to receiving an instruction in which the user operation is associated with connecting to the bicycle component BC using the second application. In other words, the wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to send a second signal in response to receiving an instruction from the remote communication device ED. Specifically, the second signal includes a second connection signal for connecting to the bicycle component BC using the second application. The wireless communicators 46, 62 are configured to establish a wireless connection using the second connection signal.

[0110] Now referring to Figure 9 , an alternative wireless communication sequence that requires and / or desires a pairing process is shown. In other words, a point-to-point communication link can be established between at least one bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED without performing a pairing process. Thus, Figure 8 the wireless communication sequence of Figure 9An example of a communication sequence for performing a pairing process to establish wireless communication between a remote communication device ED and a bicycle component BC is shown. For example, when the remote communication device ED sends an instruction (wireless signal) to the unpaired bicycle component BC, the wireless communicators 46, 62 cannot recognize the remote communication device ED and respond by sending a rejection signal. In other words, if the instruction signal is not recognized by the bicycle component BC, a rejection signal is sent from the bicycle component BC to the remote communication device ED, indicating that the instruction has been rejected. In this case, upon receiving the rejection signal from the bicycle component BC, the remote communication device ED starts the pairing process by sending a pairing request (i.e., a wireless signal) to the bicycle component BC. Upon receiving the pairing request from the remote communication device ED, the processors 45A, 54 instruct the wireless communicators 46, 62 to send a pairing signal to the remote communication device ED. After this exchange, the bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED select a key generation method to be used in the pairing process. Once the key generation method has been selected, an encrypted connection is established, where the key is distributed between the bicycle component BC and the remote communication device ED. In this way, the processors 45A, 54 are configured to perform a pairing process with the remote communication device ED in response to receiving an instruction when the pairing information is not stored in the storage devices 45B, 56. This pairing process is performed by the user simply pressing the input section 74 of the remote communication device ED. Thus, the pairing process can be performed during riding (e.g., pedaling) the bicycle B without using a pairing button or other manual input section on the bicycle component BC. Since the pairing process is well-known, the pairing process will not be described in detail herein.

[0111] Now refer to Figure 10 , the flowchart shows a control process executed by the processors 45A, 54 of the bicycle component BC for communicating with a first application and a second application of the remote communication device ED. The control process starts when power is supplied to the bicycle component BC.

[0112] In step S1, the bicycle component BC enters a listening mode for receiving wireless signals. When a wireless signal is received, the process proceeds to step S2.

[0113] In step S2, the processors 45A, 54 determine whether an instruction (i.e., a wireless signal) is recognized. If the identification information for performing wireless communication is not pre-stored in the storage devices 45B, 56, the process proceeds to step S3. However, if the identification information is recognized, the process proceeds to step S4.

[0114] In step S3, the processors 45A, 54 enter a pairing mode in which the processors 45A, 54 perform the pairing process as described above. After completing the pairing process, the process proceeds to step S4.

[0115] In step S4, the processors 45A, 54 determine whether the instruction is from the first application or the second application. If the instruction is from the first application, the process proceeds to step S5. If the instruction is from the second application, the process proceeds to step S6.

[0116] In step S5, the processors 45A, 54 instruct the wireless communicators 46, 62 to send a first signal, which includes a first connection signal and a first data signal. After sending the first signal, the process proceeds to step S7, where the processors 45A, 54 determine whether a user operation signal has been received.

[0117] In step S6, the processors 45A, 54 instruct the wireless communicators 46, 62 to send a second signal, which includes a second connection signal and a second data signal. After sending the second signal, the process proceeds to step S8, where the processors 45A, 54 determine whether a user operation signal has been received.

[0118] In step S7, if the processors 45A, 54 determine that a user operation signal has been received and that in the user operation signal the first application will disconnect from the bicycle component BC or will be switched to the second application, the process proceeds to step S9. Otherwise, the process returns to step S5.

[0119] In step S8, if the processors 45A, 54 determine that a user operation signal has been received and that in the user operation signal the second application will disconnect from the bicycle component BC or will be switched to the first application, the process proceeds to step S10. Otherwise, the process returns to step S6.

[0120] In step S9, the processors 45A, 54 are configured to perform a prohibition process that prohibits reconnecting to the remote communication device ED within a predetermined time after disconnecting from the remote communication device ED. The predetermined time is, for example, fifteen seconds. However, if the user wishes to connect the bicycle component BC to a device different from the remote communication device ED, the user can prioritize over the prohibition process. Specifically, the processors 45A, 54 are configured not to perform the prohibition process when the processors 45A, 54 receive an instruction from the remote communication device ED. Thus, in the case where the user wishes to connect the bicycle component BC to a device different from the remote communication device ED, the user can send an instruction from the remote communication device ED to connect to the different device. Alternatively, the prohibition process of step S9 can be omitted. Further, in the first embodiment, since both the first application program and the second application program are installed in the same remote communication device ED, the prohibition process can be stopped when the user switches between the first application program and the second application program in the same remote communication device ED. In order to switch between the first application program and the second application program, the bicycle component BC only needs to be disconnected from the remote communication device ED once and then can be connected to the remote communication device ED again.

[0121] In step S10, the processors 45A, 54 are configured to perform a prohibition process that prohibits reconnecting to the remote communication device ED within a predetermined time after disconnecting from the remote communication device ED. The predetermined time is, for example, fifteen seconds. However, again similar to step S9, if the user wishes to connect the bicycle component BC to a device different from the remote communication device ED, the user can prioritize over the prohibition process. Specifically, the processors 45A, 54 are configured not to perform the prohibition process when the processors 45A, 54 receive an instruction from the remote communication device ED. Alternatively, similar to step S9, the prohibition process of step S10 can be omitted.

[0122] Now referring to Figures 11 to 14 , the system 10 has been configured according to the second embodiment. Here, in the second embodiment, the remote communication device ED and the bicycle component BC are the same as those in the first embodiment, except that the remote communication device ED only includes the second application program and the first application program is installed on the bicycle computer CC. Given the similarity between the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the parts of the second embodiment that are the same as those of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as the parts of the first embodiment. Further, for the sake of brevity, the description of the parts of the second embodiment that are the same as those of the first embodiment can be omitted.

[0123] Here, as Figure 11As shown, a bicycle computer CC is schematically shown. The bicycle computer CC includes a first application program. The bicycle computer CC is configured to wirelessly communicate with bicycle components BC (e.g., rear derailleur 12 and crank 22). Specifically, the bicycle computer CC includes a remote processor 80, a remote storage device 82, and a remote wireless communicator 83. The remote storage device 82 includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium provided for storing remote program instructions thereon. The program for the first application is stored in the external storage device 82. The remote storage device 82 has also stored a wireless communication program for wirelessly communicating with the bicycle components BC. The remote storage device 82 has stored a pairing program for pairing with the bicycle components BC. The remote storage device 82 has also stored various identification information of the bicycle computer CC.

[0124] The remote program instructions for the first application program can be executed by the remote processor 80 of the bicycle computer CC. The remote processor 80 is electrically connected to the remote wireless communicator 83 of the bicycle computer CC. The remote wireless communicator 83 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle components BC. The remote wireless communicator 83 is configured to wirelessly transmit a first instruction corresponding to the first application program to the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle components BC. Specifically, the remote processor 80 is configured to execute the remote program instructions to cause the remote wireless communicator 83 to wirelessly transmit the first instruction to the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle components BC. The first instruction from the remote wireless communicator 83 is configured to instruct the processors 45A, 54 of the bicycle components BC to cause the wireless communicators 46, 62 to transmit a first signal (a first connection signal and a first data signal) to the bicycle computer CC (i.e., the first remote communication device).

[0125] As Figure 12As shown, a telecommunication device ED (i.e., the second telecommunication device) is schematically shown according to the second embodiment. Here, the telecommunication device ED includes a second application. Thus, the telecommunication device ED of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, except that the first application is not installed on the telecommunication device ED. The telecommunication device ED is configured to wirelessly communicate with bicycle components BC (e.g., the rear derailleur 12 and the crank 22). Specifically, the telecommunication device ED of the second embodiment includes the processor 70, the storage device 72, and the remote wireless communicator 73 discussed above. The remote wireless communicator 73 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle components BC. The remote wireless communicator 73 is configured to wirelessly transmit a second instruction corresponding to the second application to the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle components BC. Specifically, the external processor 70 is configured to execute remote program instructions to cause the remote wireless communicator 73 to wirelessly transmit the second instruction to the wireless communicators 46, 62 of the bicycle components BC. The second instruction from the remote wireless communicator 73 is configured to instruct the processors 45A, 54 of the bicycle components BC to cause the wireless communicators 46, 62 to transmit a second signal (a second connection signal and a second data signal) to the telecommunication device ED (i.e., the second telecommunication device).

[0126] Here, the bicycle computer CC (i.e., the first telecommunication device) includes an input unit 84 for a user to disconnect from the first application and switch from the first application to the second application. For example, the input unit 84 includes a pair of icons 84A and 84B on the touch screen of the bicycle computer CC. However, the input unit 84 is not limited to the icons 84A and 84B on the touch screen. The input unit 84 can be, for example, a mechanical button or a mechanical switch. In addition, although the input unit 84 is shown as a pair of buttons or icons 84A and 84B (images on the touch screen), it will be apparent from the present disclosure that different input units can be used depending on the current screen displayed on the bicycle computer CC. Here, for example, a "disconnect button" 84A is displayed on the bicycle computer CC to disconnect from the first application, and a "switch application button" 84B is also simultaneously displayed on the bicycle computer CC to switch to the second application. If the user touches the disconnect button 84A, the bicycle computer CC only disconnects the wireless connection and does not send any instructions. If the user touches the switch application button 84B, the bicycle computer CC sends a first instruction to the bicycle components BC to disconnect from the first application and send a second signal for communicating with the second application of the telecommunication device ED.

[0127] In the second embodiment, during riding, the bicycle component BC is connected to the bicycle computer CC (i.e., the first telecommunication device) such that the first application displays real-time data related to the bicycle. Specifically, the bicycle component BC intermittently sends a wireless signal (i.e., the first signal) to the bicycle computer CC. When data is transmitted from the bicycle component BC to the bicycle computer CC, the input unit 84 is accessible to the user. As described above, here, the input unit 84 includes an icon representing the disconnection button 84A and an icon representing the application switching button 84B. When the input unit 84 is an image or icon displayed on the touch screen of the bicycle computer CC, the input unit 84 is in an active state and can receive user operations. When data is not transmitted from the bicycle component BC to the bicycle computer CC, the input unit 84 is displayed as an inactive state on the touch screen of the bicycle computer CC. Therefore, the input unit 84 can alternately switch between the active state and the inactive state during riding based on whether the first application is connected to the bicycle component BC.

[0128] If the user wishes to use the second application of the telecommunication device while using the first application (e.g., the user wishes to change the settings of the bicycle component BC), the user touches the application switching button 84B of the input unit 84 to send a wireless signal from the bicycle computer CC to the bicycle component BC. When receiving the wireless signal from the bicycle computer CC, the bicycle component BC automatically disconnects the communication with the bicycle computer CC and sends a second signal (a second connection signal and a second data signal) to the telecommunication device ED (i.e., the second telecommunication device). In other words, the bicycle component BC stops intermittently transmitting the first signal from the bicycle component BC to the bicycle computer CC. After stopping the communication with the bicycle computer CC, the bicycle component BC outputs a second signal with the second connection signal to the telecommunication device ED to establish communication between the bicycle component BC and the telecommunication device ED. Now, the user can start using the second application on the telecommunication device ED.

[0129] Figure 14 An example of the communication that occurs when the user initially wishes to use the first application, and then switches from the first application to the second application and returns to the first application is shown. Generally, in the second embodiment, the user touches the input unit 84 on the touch screen of the bicycle computer CC (i.e., the first telecommunication device) to send a first instruction to the bicycle component BC. In other words, the bicycle computer CC is configured to generate a first instruction in response to the received user operation on the bicycle computer CC. Basically, the first instruction is sent from the first application of the bicycle computer CC to the bicycle component BC. As Figure 14As shown, a first instruction instructs a bicycle component BC to send a first signal including a first connection signal. The first connection signal is received by a first application to start running the first application. The bicycle component BC intermittently sends the first signal to the first application at a predetermined interval. These subsequent transmissions of the first signal include a first data signal. Then, when the user wishes to switch from the first application to a second application, the user touches a switch application button 84B of an input section 84 on a touch screen of a bicycle computer CC to send a second instruction to the bicycle component BC. In this way, the bicycle component BC is instructed to disconnect from the first application and send a second signal including a second connection signal to a remote communication device ED. The second connection signal is received by a second application of the remote communication device ED to start running the second application. The bicycle component BC intermittently sends the second signal to the second application at a predetermined interval. These subsequent transmissions of the second signal include a second data signal. The user can switch back to the first application by the user touching a switch application button 74B of an input section 74 on a touch screen of the remote communication device ED to send a first instruction to the bicycle component BC. Similarly, the first instruction instructs the bicycle component BC to intermittently send the first signal at a predetermined interval to start the first application of the bicycle computer CC.

[0130] Although in the illustrated embodiment the instructions (i.e., wireless signals) are sent from the remote communication device ED or the bicycle computer CC, it will be apparent that, according to one variant, the instructions (i.e., wireless signals) can be sent from another remote communication device that includes neither the first application nor the second application to the bicycle component BC.

[0131] In understanding the scope of the present invention, as used herein the term "comprising" and its derivatives are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to terms having similar meanings, such as "including", "having" and their derivatives. Further, unless otherwise specified, the terms "portion", "section", "part", "member" or "element" when used in the singular may have a dual meaning of a single component or a plurality of components.

[0132] As used herein, the following directional terms "towards the frame side", "away from the frame side", "forward", "backward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "vertical", "horizontal", "perpendicular", and "lateral", and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright riding position and equipped with bicycle components. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe bicycle components should be interpreted relative to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with bicycle components. The terms "left" and "right" are used to denote "right" when referenced from the right side when viewed from the rear of the bicycle, and "left" when referenced from the left side when viewed from the rear of the bicycle.

[0133] The phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the desired selections. For one example, if the number of selections is two, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "both of the two selections". For another example, if the number of selections is equal to or more than three, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure refers to "only a single selection" or "any combination of two or more selections". Additionally, the term "and / or" as used in this disclosure means "one or both of them". For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) B and C, (6) A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C. In other words, in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one A and at least one B".

[0134] Furthermore, 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. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of the present invention, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa.

[0135] As used herein, the terms "attached" or "attachment" encompass the following configurations: a configuration in which an element is directly secured to another element by directly adhering the element to the other element; a configuration in which an element is indirectly secured to another element by adhering the element to one or more intermediate members which in turn are adhered to the other element; and a configuration in which one element is integral with another element (i.e., one element is substantially a part of the other element). This definition also applies to words having similar meanings, such as "joined", "connected", "coupled", "mounted", "bonded", "fixed", and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as "substantially", "about", and "approximate" as used herein refer to a reasonable deviation amount of the term being modified such that the end result is not significantly changed.

[0136] While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made herein from the disclosure without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components can be changed as needed and / or desired, so long as these changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, components shown as directly connected or in contact with each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them, so long as these variations do not materially affect their intended function. The function of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa, unless otherwise specifically stated. The structure and function of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages need not be present in a particular embodiment simultaneously. Each feature unique to the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered a separate description of further invention by the applicant, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Accordingly, the foregoing description of embodiments in accordance with the invention is provided for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A bicycle component, comprising: processor; as well as A wireless communicator electrically connected to the processor, the wireless communicator configured to wirelessly transmit a signal, the signal selectively comprising a first signal and a second signal, the first signal corresponding to a first application, the second signal corresponding to a second application, the wireless communicator configured to transmit the second signal in response to receiving an instruction from a remote communication device.

2. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein The first application is installed in the remote communication device, The first signal includes a first connection signal for connecting with the bicycle component using the first application, and The wireless communicator is configured to establish a wireless connection between the wireless communicator and the remote communication device using the first connection signal.

3. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein The first connection signal includes identification information of the bicycle component.

4. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein The command is transmitted from the remote communication device in a state where wireless communication is established.

5. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein The first signal comprises a first data signal, The wireless communicator is configured to transmit the first data signal in a state where the wireless connection is established using the first connection signal, and The first data signal includes first information related to the bicycle.

6. The bicycle component according to claim 2, further comprising: A storage device is configured to store pairing information related to pairing with the remote communication device, and the processor is configured to perform a pairing process with the remote communication device in response to receiving the instruction if the storage device does not store the pairing information.

7. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein The processor is configured to perform a prohibition process for prohibiting reconnection with the remote communication device within a predetermined time after disconnection from the remote communication device.

8. The bicycle component according to claim 7, wherein The processor is configured to not perform the inhibiting process if the processor receives the instruction from the remote communication device.

9. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein The second application is installed in the remote communication device, The second signal includes a second connection signal for connecting with the bicycle component using the second application. The wireless communicator is configured to establish the wireless connection using the second connection signal, and The wireless communicator is configured to disconnect from the remote communication device before connecting to the remote communication device using the second connection signal in a state where the wireless communicator has established the wireless connection with the remote communication device using the first connection signal.

10. The bicycle component according to claim 9, wherein The second signal comprises a second data signal, The wireless communicator is configured to transmit the second data signal in a state where the wireless connection is established using the second connection signal, and The second data signal includes second information related to the bicycle.

11. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein The second application is installed in the remote communication device, The second signal includes a second connection signal for connecting with the bicycle component using the second application, and The wireless communicator wirelessly connects with the remote communication device using the second connection signal.

12. The bicycle component according to claim 11, wherein The second connection signal includes identification information of the bicycle component.

13. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein The remote communication device is configured to generate the instruction in response to receiving a user operation on the remote communication device.

14. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communicator being configured to transmit the first signal in response to receiving an instruction in which a user operation is associated with connecting with the bicycle component using the first application on the remote communication device; and The wireless communicator is configured to transmit the second signal in response to receiving the instruction wherein the user operation is associated with connecting with the bicycle component using the second application.

15. The bicycle component according to claim 2, wherein The wireless communicator is configured to change the signal from the first signal to the second signal in response to receiving the instruction in a state where the wireless communicator has established the wireless connection with the remote communication device using the first connection signal.

16. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein The bicycle component includes a speed change device.

17. The bicycle component according to claim 1, wherein The bicycle component includes a sensor.

18. A system comprising the bicycle component according to claim 1, further comprising: The remote communication device comprises the first application and the second application.

19. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions being executable by a processor of a bicycle component, the processor being electrically connected to a wireless communicator of the bicycle component, the program instructions being configured to: causing the wireless communicator to wirelessly transmit a first signal corresponding to a first application; and The wireless communicator is caused to wirelessly transmit a second signal corresponding to the second application in response to receiving the instruction from the remote communication device.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having remote program instructions stored thereon, the remote program instructions being executable by a remote processor of a remote communication device, the remote processor being electrically connected to a remote wireless communicator of the remote communication device, the remote wireless communicator being configured to wirelessly communicate with a wireless communicator of a bicycle component, the wireless communicator being configured to wirelessly transmit a first signal corresponding to a first application and being configured to wirelessly transmit a second signal corresponding to a second application, the remote program instructions being configured to: causing the remote wireless communicator to wirelessly transmit instructions to the wireless communicator, The instructions from the long-range wireless communicator are configured to instruct a processor of the bicycle component to cause the wireless communicator to transmit the second signal.

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