Bicycle component mountable to bicycle and bicycle control system for controlling external device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a bicycle component mountable to a bicycle. The bicycle component includes a first user input, a wireless communicator, and a controller. The first user input is configured to receive a first input of a user. The wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly communicate with a relay device, where the relay device is a wearable device or a smartphone, and where the relay device is configured to communicate with an external device. The controller is configured to control the external device upon receiving a first input to the first user input. The present disclosure also relates to a bicycle control system for controlling an external device. The bicycle control system comprises the bicycle component and a relay device, and the relay device is a wearable device or a smart phone.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a bicycle component that can be mounted to a bicycle and a bicycle control system for controlling external devices, wherein the bicycle control system includes the aforementioned bicycle component and a relay device as a wearable device or a smartphone. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, bicycle components that can wirelessly interact and communicate with each other and with external devices have become popular.

[0003] For example, US 11,703,118 B2 uses a helmet with a microphone or gloves with a contact sensor to trigger a wireless shift signal and transmits the wireless shift signal to a bicycle drivetrain, including a rear derailleur, via a wireless communication device.

[0004] However, recent developments are not limited to wearable solutions for triggering (e.g., drivetrain mechanisms) but also involve wireless communication and interaction between different bicycle components mounted on a bicycle. Traditional solutions therefore use bicycle components (such as the rear derailleur) as a central communication unit for sending and receiving wireless signals. These signals may relate, for example, to shifting signals that actuate the rear derailleur itself, or may include information about the battery level of a shifter mounted to the bicycle handlebars, which will be wirelessly transmitted to an external device, such as a bicycle computer that can be mounted to the bicycle handlebars (e.g., see US 11,685,472 B2).

[0005] However, this traditional configuration requires the bicycle component, such as the rear derailleur (an exemplary form of a central communication unit), to be paired with numerous external devices, additional bicycle parts, and accessories (such as lights, cameras, bicycle computers, etc.), and to maintain a reliable wireless connection with them. This can lead to an unpleasant user experience due to connectivity issues.

[0006] Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide a bicycle component that can be installed on a bicycle, and a bicycle control system that can reliably wirelessly connect to various additional bicycle components, external devices, etc., and can improve usability. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The aforementioned objective is achieved by the bicycle component according to independent claim 1, the bicycle control system according to independent claim 7, and / or the bicycle control system according to independent claim 14. Different embodiments can be derived from the dependent claims.

[0008] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle component that can be mounted to a bicycle is provided. The bicycle component includes a first user input section, a wireless communication device, and a controller. The first user input section is configured to receive a first input from a user. The wireless communication device is configured to communicate wirelessly with a relay device, which may be a wearable device or a smartphone. The relay device is configured to communicate with an external device. The controller is configured to control the external device upon receiving the first input to the first user input section.

[0009] The first user input section can be understood, for example, as a button or switch, which can be mounted to the handlebars of a bicycle. The bicycle component can be, for example, the rear derailleur or front derailleur of a bicycle drivetrain, but is not limited to the examples described.

[0010] A wireless communication device can be understood as a (structural) element capable of pairing and reliably connecting with a wearable device or smartphone, for example via Bluetooth, ANT+, or any other wireless communication protocol, while the wearable device or smartphone is configured to communicate with an external device.

[0011] As used in this application, the term "wearable device" defines a type of electronic technology or gadget that can be worn by a user, typically as an accessory or garment. In addition to wireless connectivity, these wearable devices typically have additional sensors and processors to perform tasks such as tracking body activity, monitoring health indicators, or enabling hands-free communication.

[0012] In view of the above, one embodiment of this disclosure is a bicycle component that establishes and reliably maintains a wireless connection with a smartphone or wearable device, which in turn communicates with an external device or optionally multiple external devices. The term "relay device" itself correctly implies that the smartphone or wearable device acts as a central relay station for connecting to one or more external devices. In other words, the wearable device or smartphone is relaying signal transmission between the bicycle and the external devices.

[0013] Since wearable devices and smartphones are typically capable of interacting with a wide variety of external devices, their advantageous configurations can be utilized in a beneficial way, and bicycle components and their wireless communication devices can be less burdened by simply pairing with and maintaining a connection to a relay device. Therefore, the various pairing steps or coupling processes for wireless connections between the bicycle components and the various external devices can be omitted.

[0014] Using the bicycle component according to the first aspect, the user's first input triggers signal transmission to an external device via a relay device, so that the external device can be controlled via the controller of the bicycle component.

[0015] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle component according to the first aspect further includes an operating device, wherein a first user input section is arranged on the operating device.

[0016] The operating device can be, for example, an actuation device, i.e., a device configured to receive tactile input from a user.

[0017] For this purpose, the first user input section of the bicycle component is arranged on the operating device, thereby forming, for example, a tactile switch that can be mounted to the handlebars of the bicycle. Other examples could be a gear shifter or an input panel.

[0018] By utilizing the bicycle components according to the second aspect, due to the configuration of the bicycle components including the operating device, the number of structural elements used to control external devices via the relay device can be kept as small as possible.

[0019] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle component according to the second aspect also includes an operable device. The operable device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, wherein the operable device has an actuator actuable by the operating device.

[0020] As the term "operated device" already implies, the bicycle components according to the third aspect additionally include elements to be operated (i.e. actuated) by an "active" operating device.

[0021] By utilizing the bicycle components according to the third aspect, the operated device thus achieves two functions: it can be actuated by its actuator, and at the same time, it can communicate wirelessly with a smartphone or wearable device as a relay device.

[0022] Examples of such actuators for the operated device can be electric actuators, i.e., motors configured to move the movable member of the derailleur relative to its base member to shift gears in a bicycle drivetrain.

[0023] Because the operated device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, the bicycle component only requires one connection between the relay device and the bicycle component (specifically its wireless communicator) to transmit a wireless signal including an actuation signal for the operated device, which is triggered by a first input arranged on the operating device. Therefore, the operating device can actuate the operated device. A typical example of such an operating device is a bicycle shift button. An example of such an operated device with an actuator is an electric actuator or motor in the rear derailleur or front derailleur responsible for shifting gears in the bicycle drivetrain.

[0024] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle component according to the third aspect further includes a second user input section configured to receive a second input from a user, wherein the actuator is actuable upon receiving a second input to the second user input section.

[0025] Using the bicycle components according to the fourth aspect, the operating device can actuate the operated device, such as the rear derailleur, based on a second input from the user. In other words, the operated device can therefore be actuated.

[0026] Preferably, the second user input section can also be arranged on the operating device.

[0027] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, the operating device of the bicycle component according to the third or fourth aspect is configured to wirelessly transmit a signal to a relay device when a first input to a first user input unit is received.

[0028] Using the bicycle component according to the fifth aspect, a signal can be transmitted from the operated device to the relay device using the first input.

[0029] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the controller of the bicycle component according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured to control the external device when a first input to the first user input unit is received, while the wireless communication device is paired with a relay device but not with an external device.

[0030] Using the bicycle component according to the sixth aspect, it is understood that only one pairing is required between the bicycle component and the relay device, while any other external device only interacts wirelessly with the relay device. Therefore, the controller of the bicycle component is configured to control the external device via the relay device upon receiving a first input to the first user input section, which may, for example, be arranged on the operating device.

[0031] According to the seventh aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle control system for controlling external devices includes bicycle components according to any one of the first to sixth aspects and a relay device.

[0032] By utilizing the bicycle control system according to the seventh aspect, the pairing process between bicycle components and relay devices can be facilitated, while a reliable connection between the relay device and bicycle components (especially wireless communication devices and relay devices) can be obtained.

[0033] According to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the relay device of the bicycle control system according to the seventh aspect is integrated into or can be attached to the helmet.

[0034] According to the bicycle control system in the eighth aspect, the number of structural components that the user must carry or need to install on the bicycle can be reduced.

[0035] According to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, the relay device of the bicycle control system according to the seventh aspect is a smartwatch, smart ring, smart wristband, or smart glasses.

[0036] By utilizing the bicycle control system according to aspect nine, the number of additional components necessary to establish reliable communication between bicycle components and external devices (such as lights, cameras, etc.) via smartwatches, smart rings, smart wristbands, or smart glasses acting as central relays can be reduced. In other words, components typically used by users to track their sleep, fitness, or activity can be used as central relays within the bicycle control system, eliminating the need for users to purchase additional bicycle computers or similar devices. Using smartphones as relays offers the same advantages due to their widespread availability in society.

[0037] According to the tenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle control system according to any one of the seventh to ninth aspects further includes an external device, wherein the external device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other.

[0038] Using the bicycle control system according to the tenth aspect, a bicycle control system capable of wirelessly controlling external devices in a particularly reliable manner can be established.

[0039] This is achieved by utilizing a bicycle component with a controller configured to control an external device upon receiving, for example, a first input to a first user input unit, wherein such control signals are transmitted to the external device via a relay device.

[0040] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, the external device of the bicycle control system according to the tenth aspect is at least one of a camera device, a light, a speaker, headphones, and a music player.

[0041] Other examples of external devices are drones or locking devices.

[0042] The bicycle control system according to aspect eleven improves bicycle usability because external devices (such as the shutter of a camera) can be remotely triggered via the bicycle control system without the need for additional relay devices, trigger buttons, etc. Other examples include starting or stopping recording with such a camera, pausing or playing music with a music player connected to headphones or speakers, etc.

[0043] According to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the external device of the bicycle control system according to the tenth or eleventh aspect is fixed to the relay device.

[0044] Using the bicycle control system according to the twelfth aspect, the relay device and the external device can be combined into a single structural element.

[0045] According to the thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle control system according to any one of the tenth to twelfth aspects includes at least one additional external device, wherein the relay device and the at least one additional external device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other.

[0046] Using the bicycle control system according to aspect thirteen, an external device and at least one additional external device can be connected via a relay device. In other words, various external devices wirelessly link to and communicate with the relay device, and vice versa, the relay device using a single wireless connection to the bicycle components to receive control signals from them. Therefore, external devices such as lights, cameras, etc., can be actuated, for example, via the operating mechanism of the bicycle components and by relaying command signals via a smartphone or wearable device. That is, the relay device aggregates wireless connections to various external devices.

[0047] According to the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, a bicycle control system for controlling an external device integrated into or attachable to a helmet includes a bicycle component mountable to a bicycle and a relay device integrated into or attachable to a helmet. The bicycle component includes a first user input unit, a wireless communication device, and a controller, optionally as described in any of the foregoing aspects. The wireless communication device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, the relay device is configured to communicate with the external device, and the controller is configured to control the external device upon receiving a first input to the first user input unit.

[0048] The bicycle control system according to aspect fourteen, consistent with the bicycle control systems described with reference to aspects seven through thirteen, facilitates the pairing process between the bicycle components and the relay device, while simultaneously providing a reliable connection between the relay device and the bicycle components (particularly the wireless communicator and the relay device). An exemplary configuration for an external device integrated into or attached to a helmet could be a light or a speaker, which could be controlled, respectively, via input from a user to a first (and / or second) user input section of the bicycle components. A typical user scenario is being able to turn the light on or off without touching the helmet.

[0049] According to the fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle component of the bicycle control system according to the fourteenth aspect further includes an operating device, wherein a first user input unit is arranged on the operating device.

[0050] Using the bicycle control system according to aspect fifteen, external devices integrated into or attached to the helmet can be controlled via an operating device. Examples of such an operating device could be a shifter or switch that can be mounted to the handlebars. This allows for wireless control of external devices on the helmet, such as lights, without removing the user's hands from the handlebars, thereby improving user safety while cycling.

[0051] According to the sixteenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle component of the bicycle control system according to the fifteenth aspect further includes an operated device, wherein the relay device and the operated device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, and the operated device is actuable by the operating device.

[0052] As described above with reference to the third aspect of this disclosure, since the operated device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, the bicycle component only requires one connection between the relay device and the bicycle component (in particular its wireless communication device) to transmit a wireless signal including an actuation signal of the operated device, which is triggered by, for example, a first input portion arranged on the operating device. A typical example of such an operating device is a bicycle shift button. An example of such an operated device with an actuator is an electric actuator in the rear or front derailleur responsible for shifting gears in the bicycle drivetrain.

[0053] According to the seventeenth aspect of this disclosure, the bicycle control system according to any one of the fourteenth to sixteenth aspects further includes at least one of a helmet and an external device.

[0054] Using the bicycle control system according to the seventeenth aspect, a particularly reliable bicycle control system can be realized with a simplified structure and fewer components required to implement the system.

[0055] According to the eighteenth aspect of this disclosure, the external device of the bicycle control system according to any one of the fourteenth to seventeenth aspects is a camera device.

[0056] Using the bicycle control system according to the eighteenth aspect, a bicycle control system with a camera device as an external device can be established. In this configuration, for example, the actuation of the camera device shutter or the start or stop of the recording of the camera device can be triggered without touching the camera device itself.

[0057] Instead, it is sufficient to input a first input to the first user input section, wherein the controller, upon receiving the first user input to the first user input section, then controls the camera shutter, the start or stop of recording. Therefore, the control signal is relayed via a relay device for wearable devices or smartphones.

[0058] In this scenario, the relay device can maintain an additional wireless connection with at least one additional external device simultaneously. Attached Figure Description

[0059] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, illustrates non-limiting examples of this disclosure, wherein: Figure 1 A side elevation view of a bicycle (i.e., a human-powered vehicle) to which the bicycle control system is applicable is shown.

[0060] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the operating mechanism of the bicycle component in a bicycle control system is shown.

[0061] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a bicycle control system is shown, which includes bicycle components, a relay device as a smartphone or wearable device, and external devices.

[0062] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bicycle control system is shown, which includes bicycle components, a relay device as a smartphone or wearable device, and external devices.

[0063] Figure 5A A schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of a bicycle control system is shown, in which a relay device is integrated into the helmet.

[0064] Figure 5B A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bicycle control system is shown, in which a relay device can be attached to a helmet.

[0065] Figure 6 The functional structure of each component in a bicycle control system that obtains wireless communication is shown.

[0066] Figure 7 A timing flowchart is shown, highlighting an exemplary sequence of signal transmission from the first user input unit to external devices in a bicycle control system. Detailed Implementation

[0067] Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals denote corresponding or identical elements throughout the various drawings. It will be apparent from this disclosure to those skilled in the art that the following description of the embodiments is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0068] First refer to Figure 1 The illustration shows a human-powered vehicle, which is a vehicle that can be driven by at least human power. The human-powered vehicle is shown in the exemplary form of a bicycle 1. The number of wheels in a human-powered vehicle is not limited. For example, human-powered vehicles include unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels.

[0069] An exemplary bicycle 1 includes a drivetrain in the form of a bicycle derailleur system 10. Bicycle 1 is, for example, an off-road bicycle, such as a cross-country bicycle or a mountain bike. Alternatively, bicycle 1 can be a road bicycle, i.e., a road bike, city bike, freight bike, or recumbent bike and e-bike.

[0070] Bicycle 1 may have an axial center plane that defines the left and right halves of bicycle 1. The following directional terms "forward", "backward", "forward", "reverse", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward", and "downward" and any other similar directional terms refer to those directions determined based on the rider (i.e., a user sitting upright on the saddle of bicycle 1 while facing the handlebars).

[0071] From the above Figure 1 Obviously, the bicycle 1 includes a frame 2 attached to the rear wheel 3. The front fork 4 attaches the front wheel 5 to the frame 2. The pedals 6 on both sides of the bicycle 1 are attached to corresponding crank arms 7. The crank arms 7 are mounted at 180 degrees to each other on both sides of the frame 2 and are connected by crank shafts 8 (indicated by dashed lines).

[0072] The bicycle 1 is driven by a transmission mechanism, specifically a chain-type drive transmission system comprising a bicycle chain 9, a bicycle derailleur system 10, and bicycle sprockets 12. The other components of the bicycle 1 are well-known and will not be described in detail here.

[0073] It should be understood that the bicycle derailleur system 10 described herein can be configured as either or both of a rear derailleur 10A and / or a front derailleur 10B.

[0074] Similarly, the bicycle sprocket 12 described herein may refer to a plurality of rear sprockets 12A and / or one or more front sprockets 12B. Each of the rear sprockets 12A and one or more front sprockets 12B includes a plurality of sprocket teeth arranged around the periphery of the bicycle sprocket 12. The rear sprockets 12A may be arranged as a cassette freewheel 12A.

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle chain 9 is engaged with one of the rear sprockets 12A and one of the front sprockets 12B. The driving force applied by the user to the pedals 6 causes the crankshaft 8 and the front sprocket 12B mounted thereon to rotate. As the front sprocket 12B rotates, the bicycle chain 9 is driven around one of the rear sprockets 12A, which transmits power to the rear wheel 3 to propel the bicycle 1.

[0076] The bicycle derailleur system 10 is thus configured to displace the bicycle chain 9 relative to the bicycle sprockets 12. Accordingly, the rear derailleur 10A displaces the bicycle chain 9 between the rear sprockets 12A, and the front derailleur 10B displaces the bicycle chain 9 between the front sprockets 12B. The displacement of the bicycle chain 9 between the rear sprockets 12A and the front sprockets 12B changes the gear ratio of the chain-type drive transmission to increase or decrease the distance traveled per rotation of the pedal 6.

[0077] During the shifting operation, the bicycle chain 9 moves axially to the adjacent sprocket. When the adjacent sprocket is the outer sprocket relative to the frame 2 of the bicycle 1, the bicycle chain 9 moves in a first axial direction. The first axial direction is to the right, away from the frame 2 of the bicycle 1, from the rider's perspective. Correspondingly, when the adjacent sprocket is the inner sprocket relative to the frame 2 of the bicycle 1, the bicycle chain 9 moves in a second axial direction. The second axial direction is to the left, towards the frame 2 of the bicycle 1, from the rider's perspective. It should be understood that although the first and second axial directions are coaxial with respect to the rotational center axis of the bicycle sprocket 12, the second axial direction is opposite to the first axial direction.

[0078] It goes without saying that a transmission device (i.e., a chain-driven transmission system) can also be provided, which includes a single chain link, namely a single sprocket 12B located at the front (i.e., at the crank arm 7), and rear sprockets 12A and rear derailleurs 10A located at the rear (i.e., only at the rear axle of the rear wheel 3). In this configuration, no shifting operation is performed at the single front sprocket 12B.

[0079] To explain exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, only the configuration and use of the rear derailleur 10A will be mentioned subsequently. Nevertheless, it is apparent that the bicycle components 11 and bicycle control system described below are equally applicable to a bicycle 1 having a bicycle derailleur system 10 including the rear derailleur 10A and the front derailleur 10B.

[0080] As will be described in more detail below, the rear derailleur 10A is also understood in the given art as an operated device 10A because it is configured to receive, among other things, operating signals (i.e., instructions) to perform the movement of the bicycle chain 9 at the cassette freewheels of each rear sprocket 12A to shift gears. Therefore, as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the rear derailleur 10A basically includes a base member 25, a linkage mechanism 26 (which can also be understood as a linkage member 26), and a movable member 27. The movable member 27 is provided with a chain guide.

[0081] The rear derailleur 10A is also provided with an actuator 13. The actuator 13 may be disposed on the base member 25 and may be operatively connected to the linkage mechanism 26. The actuator 13, in the exemplary form of a motor 13, manipulates the position of the bicycle chain 9 on the cassette freewheel of each rear sprocket 12A by performing the axial movement of the bicycle chain 9 described above.

[0082] To receive and process operating signals, the rear derailleur 10A includes a second controller 31 and a second wireless communication device 30, which will be described in more detail below. The second controller 31, the second wireless communication device 30, and the actuator 13 can be disposed on the base member 25, wherein the second wireless communication device 30 and the second controller 31 can be disposed on or within a circuit board arranged on the base member 25, particularly within the internal space of the circuit board of the base member 25.

[0083] Thus, the operated device 10A is formed to be installable to Figure 1 The bicycle 1 shown is part of a bicycle component 11, which in turn forms part of a bicycle control system according to the present disclosure.

[0084] Now refer to Figures 2 to 7 The overall bicycle control system according to this disclosure is described in more detail.

[0085] An exemplary bicycle control system includes, among other things, an operating device 14, which in Figure 2 The diagram shows a first user input section 17 arranged on an operating device 14. The first user input section 17 will be described in more detail below. The operating device 14 is a component that can be mounted to the handlebars 15 of a bicycle 1 via a clamp clip 16 extending around the diameter of the handlebars 15.

[0086] Figure 2 The configuration of the operating device 14 illustrated in the figure indicates that the operating device 14 also includes a second user input section 18. The second user input section 18 is configured to receive a second input from the user. The actuator 13 of the operated device 10A can be actuated when it receives the second input to the second user input section 18. In other words, the exemplary configuration of the operating device 14 includes a first user input section 17 and a second user input section 18 respectively arranged on the operating device 14. Thus, both the first user input section 17 and the second user input section 18 are configured to receive user input, namely the user's first input and the user's second input. In detail, the first user input section 17 is configured to receive the user's first input, and the second user input section 18 is configured to receive the user's second input. However, the bicycle component 11 is not limited to this configuration. The operating device 14, which only includes the first user input section 17, can also be provided. Similarly, the first user input section 17 can be arranged on the first operating device, and the second user input section 18 can be arranged on the second operating device.

[0087] The bicycle control system also includes an operated device 10A, such as the rear derailleur 10A described above. The operated device 10A includes an actuator 13. The actuator 13 is actuable by the operating device 14, particularly upon receiving a second input to the second user input unit 18. The operated device 10A is also configured to communicate wirelessly with a relay device 19, which will be discussed in more detail below. That is, the operated device 10A and the relay device 19 are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. Therefore, a shift command can be, for example, an input to the second user input unit 18, which is forwarded to the operated device 10A and the actuator 13 to perform a shift.

[0088] Reference Figures 3 to 7 A more detailed description of the remaining communication between the various components.

[0089] Figure 3 The overall configuration of the bicycle control system according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment shows that the bicycle control system is basically composed of bicycle component 11, relay device 19 and external device 20.

[0090] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As illustrated, bicycle component 11 may include operating device 14 and operated device 10A.

[0091] According to this disclosure, the relay device 19 is a smartphone 19A or a wearable device 19B such as a smartwatch, smart ring, smart wristband, or smart glasses. That is, the relay device 19 can be a smartwatch, smart ring, smart wristband, or smart glasses. (Refer to the following...) Figure 5A and Figure 5B In another embodiment described, the relay device 19 may be integrated into or attached to the helmet 22.

[0092] according to Figure 3 In this embodiment, the external device 20 is a camera device 20. However, this disclosure is not limited to the described configuration. The external device 20 can also be a lamp, a speaker 21, headphones, or a music player. That is, the external device 20 can be at least one of a camera device, a lamp, a speaker, headphones, and a music player. Figure 3 As will become clear from the exemplary embodiments, the external device 20 (here, the camera device 20) is reversibly attached to the helmet 22. However, this disclosure is not limited to this configuration. The external device 20 can be attached to the relay device 19. In other words, the external device 20 can also be attached to a smartphone 19A or a wearable device 19B.

[0093] The bicycle control system also includes an operated device 10A. That is, the operated device 10A (of the bicycle component 11) is also part of the bicycle control system. The operated device 10A and the relay device 19 are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. The operated device 10A includes an actuator 13, which is actuable by the operating device 14.

[0094] The bicycle component 11 according to this disclosure includes not only the operated device 10A and the operating device 14 having a first user input section 17 arranged thereon, but also a wireless communication device and a controller (which may be, for example, a CPU). Therefore, it is self-evident that the wireless communication device and the controller can be configured as a single chip, or the controller and the wireless communication device can be configured as separate chips.

[0095] The inclusion of a wireless communication device and controller in the bicycle component allows wireless communication between the bicycle component 11 and the relay device 19, which in turn establishes wireless communication with the external device 20, enabling control of the external device 20 upon receiving a first input to the first user input unit 17.

[0096] Therefore, the wireless communicator is configured to communicate wirelessly with the relay device 19, which can be as follows: Figure 4 The smartphone 19A illustrated in the embodiment, or as shown in the example Figure 3 The wearable device 19B illustrated in the embodiment. Meanwhile, the external device 20, in particular... Figure 3 The camera device 20 and the relay device 19 are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other.

[0097] The wireless communication between the bicycle component's wireless communication device and the relay device 19, and the wireless communication between the relay device 19 and the external device 20, are provided by... Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B as well as Figure 6 The arrow in the image indicates this.

[0098] Figure 6 The functional structure among the various components that obtain wireless communication in a bicycle control system is shown. Figure 6 As shown, the operating device 14 may include a first wireless communication device 28 and a first controller 29 in addition to the first user input unit 17 and the second user input unit 18. The operated device 10A may include a second wireless communication device 30 and a second controller 31 in addition to the actuator 13. The relay device 19 may include a third wireless communication device 32 and a third controller 33. The external device may include a fourth wireless communication device 34 and a fourth controller 35 to realize the above-mentioned communication between the various components of the bicycle control system.

[0099] One, at least two, or even all of the first controller 29, the second controller 31, the third controller 33, and the fourth controller 35 may be configured as a CPU.

[0100] Furthermore, one, at least two, or even all of the following groups can each constitute a single chip: the first wireless communication device 28 and the first controller 29, the second wireless communication device 30 and the second controller 31, the third wireless communication device 32 and the third controller 33, and the fourth wireless communication device 34 and the fourth controller 35. Alternatively, one, at least two, or even all of these groups can be configured as independent chips.

[0101] Wireless communication can therefore be established using known secure wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth, ANT+, etc. This covers bicycle components 11 (e.g. Figure 2 The communication between the illustrated operating device 14 and the relay device 19 is established through a different wireless communication protocol than the wireless communication between the relay device 19 and the external device 20.

[0102] By using, for example Figure 4 The smartphone 19A illustrated in the embodiment or as shown Figure 3 The wearable device 19B illustrated in the embodiment acts as a repeater for transmitting signals and allowing components of the bicycle control system to communicate with each other. Upon receiving a first input to the first user input section 17 arranged on the operating device 14, it can reliably control the external device 20 via the controller of the bicycle components, for example... Figure 3 The camera device 20.

[0103] Therefore, the controller of the bicycle component 11 is configured to control the external device 20 when it receives a first input to the first user input unit 17, and is configured by the operating device 10A and the relay device 19 to communicate wirelessly with each other.

[0104] Thus, the operated device 10A and the relay device 19 are also configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, so that the actuator 13 can be actuated by the operating device 14.

[0105] Specifically, actuator 13 can be actuated upon receiving a second input to the second user input unit 18, while the first user input unit 17 can be configured to receive a first user input for operation / actuation of the external device 20, so as to control the external device 20 via the controller of bicycle component 11 (here, the first controller 29 of operating device 14 and / or the second controller 31 of operated device 10A). A typical operating scenario for this configuration is... Figure 3 The shutter actuator of the illustrated camera device 20 and / or the start and stop of recording by the camera device 20. Similarly, it could be, as shown in the reference... Figure 4The configuration shown in the figure allows you to turn the speaker 21 louder or quieter, and to start or stop the music.

[0106] In this bicycle control system, the operated device 10A is configured to wirelessly transmit a signal to the relay device 19 upon receiving a first input to the first user input unit 17. In other words, a wireless communication device (not shown) of the bicycle component can be arranged on the operated device 10A, which serves as a wireless communication tool.

[0107] Therefore, the purpose of the relay device 19, in the form of a smartphone 19A or wearable device 19B, is to collect all wireless communications and serve as a central collection point for all wireless connections used in the bicycle control system. Meanwhile, bicycle components 11, such as the operated device 10A, only need to maintain a single wireless communication with the relay device 19, while the bicycle control system can operate not only the bicycle derailleur system 10 but also external devices 20 (such as…). Figure 3 The camera device 20 is installed in the helmet 22. Therefore, the controller is configured to pair the wireless communication device with the relay device 19 but not with the external device 20 (e.g., the camera device 20 is installed in the helmet 22). Figure 3 When the camera device 20 is paired with the camera device 20, the external device 20 is controlled when the first input to the first user input unit 17 is received.

[0108] This concept was Figure 4 What was emphasized was that Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bicycle control system including bicycle component 11, relay device 19 and external device 20 is shown.

[0109] exist Figure 4 In the middle, relay device 19 is not as... Figure 3 The wearable device 19B is configured as a smartphone 19A. All the above overviews regarding the configuration and arrangement of the relay device 19 for the wearable device 19B also apply to the smartphone 19A.

[0110] from Figure 4 It is evident that the bicycle control system includes not only an external device 20, exemplarily in the form of a camera, but also at least one additional external device 21. Thus, the at least one additional external device 21 is exemplary configured as a speaker 21, but is clearly not limited thereto. The at least one additional external device 21 can also be implemented as a light, another camera, headphones, or a music player, etc.

[0111] Based on the above, from Figure 4As the arrows clearly indicate, in this configuration, the relay device 19 and at least one additional external device 21 are also configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. Therefore, even when multiple external devices are provided, they are all wirelessly connected to and communicate with the relay device 19, and the bicycle component 11 does not need to bear the burden of numerous wireless connections. Thus, a convenient pairing process and reliable operation can be achieved for the bicycle control system used for wireless shifting and operating external devices.

[0112] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Another embodiment of a bicycle control system is shown, wherein the basic operating scheme, related components, and control operations are the same as those in the aforementioned embodiments discussed above, and the bicycle component 11 includes an operating device 14 and an operated device 10A. Figure 5A and Figure 5B Configuration, for example, with Figure 3 The difference in the embodiment lies in the arrangement of the relay device 19. Meanwhile, in Figure 5A and Figure 5B In this context, camera device 20 represents an exemplary form of external device 20.

[0113] In more detail, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The relay device 19 is shown to be configured as a wearable device. Figure 5A In this process, the relay device 19 is integrated into the helmet 22, and particularly into the helmet body 24, making it invisible to the user and the environment.

[0114] exist Figure 5B In this configuration, the relay device 19 is visible because it is not integrated into the helmet body 24, but is attached to the outside of the helmet 22, specifically to the helmet strap 23, which is used to secure the helmet 22 under the user's chin when worn while cycling.

[0115] therefore, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The embodiments make carrying a smartphone 19A, which is another configuration of the relay device 19, redundant, and / or wearing any other wearable device 19B, instead implementing the functionality of the helmet 22 including the relay device 19. Therefore, from Figure 5A and Figure 5B More obviously, when the rear derailleur 10A, as the operated device 10A, receives the first user input to the operating device 14, it transmits the wireless signal received from the operating device 14 to the relay device 19 in / at the helmet 22.

[0116] To explain in more detail the innovative transmission sequence of control signals for the external device 20 (e.g., in the form of camera device 20), refer now to Figure 7 The flowchart.

[0117] Innovative control of external device 20 begins Figure 7 In step S1, the user inputs a first user input to the first user input unit 17. As described above, the first user input unit 17 is arranged on the operating device 14 and may be, for example, a tactile switch 14.

[0118] Upon receiving the first user input, the first wireless communication device 28 of the operating device 14 is controlled by the first controller 29, which initiates wireless communication between the first wireless communication device 28 and the second wireless communication device 30 of the operated device 10A (here, the rear derailleur 10A). Figure 7 (Step S2 in the process). Therefore, the term "startup" does not refer to the pairing process, but should be understood as initiating wireless communication between components via an existing, permanent communication channel. This can be achieved, for example, via Bluetooth, ANT+, or any other wireless communication protocol.

[0119] Subsequently, in step S3, the control signal generated by the triggering of the first user input unit 17 is wirelessly transmitted from the operating device 14 to the operated device 10A via the first wireless communication device 28 and the second wireless communication device 30.

[0120] Optionally, the operated device 10A may perform additional checks to determine whether the received control signal is directed to operation of the external device 20 or, for example, to operation of the operated device 10A itself. However, this step is not mandatory. It is also possible that the properties of the control signal originating from the first user input unit 17 are sufficient to detect the control signal as a signal for the external device 20, so that its transmission can be triggered accordingly in the operated device 10A without control step S4. The same applies to second user input to the second user input unit 18, which can trigger actuation of the actuator 13 of the operated device 10A without additional checks on the source / properties of the signal.

[0121] When the second controller 31 of the operated device 10A receives a control signal via the second wireless communication device 30, the second controller 31 of the operated device 10A initiates wireless communication between the second wireless communication device 30 and the third wireless communication device 32 of the relay device 19 (see...). Figure 7 Step S5 in the process.

[0122] Subsequently, in step S6, the control signal is transmitted from the operated device 10A to the wearable device 19B (see... Figure 3In the form of a smartphone or smartphone 19A (see Figure 4 19. A relay device in the form of )

[0123] In step S7, the reception of control signals in relay device 19 triggers its third controller 33 to initiate communication between the third wireless communication device 32 of relay device 19 and external device 20.

[0124] This allows control signals to be subsequently transmitted wirelessly from relay device 19, particularly the third controller 33 of relay device 19, via the third wireless communication device 32 to external device 20 (see step S8). For this purpose, external device 20 also includes additional devices such as a fourth wireless communication device 34 and a fourth controller 35.

[0125] In step S9, actual control of the external device 20 is triggered when a control signal is received via the fourth wireless communication device 34 in the external device 20 (particularly in the fourth controller 35 of the external device 20). In other words, the triggering of the external device 20 (e.g., actuation of the camera shutter, start / stop of recording, or start / pause of music) is initiated in the external device 20 upon receiving the control signal.

[0126] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Therefore, an exemplary form of signal transmission from the first user input unit 17 to the external device 20 via the relay device 19 is shown, the relay device 19 collecting wireless connections with various external devices 20. Figure 7 Includes optional signal type checking step S4.

[0127] However, step S4, which refers to the signal check in the operated device 10A, is not the only optional step.

[0128] A communication scenario can also be established, in which the operating device 14 is configured to communicate wirelessly directly with the relay device 19. In other words, control signals are not transmitted to the operated device 10A before being transmitted to the relay device 19. That is to say, the relay of control signals via the operated device 10A can also be omitted.

[0129] In understanding the scope of this disclosure, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of a described feature, element, component, group, whole, and / or step, but do not exclude the presence of other undescribed features, elements, components, groups, wholes, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part," "section," "section," "component," or "element," when used in the singular, may have a dual meaning of a single part or multiple parts.

[0130] As used herein, the following directional terms "forward," "backward," "front," "back," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," and "lateral," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions of a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle with reference to the right, and "left" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle with reference to the left.

[0131] As used in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one" means "one or more" of the desired choices. For one example, if the number of choices is two, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "two of the two choices." For another example, if the number of choices is equal to or more than three, the phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure means "only one single choice" or "any combination of equal to or more than two choices."

[0132] Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the aforementioned first component may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa.

[0133] As used herein, the terms “attached” or “attached” encompass configurations in which an element is directly fixed to another element by attaching it directly to the element; configurations in which an element is indirectly fixed to another element by attaching it to an intermediate member, which in turn is attached to another element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another (i.e., one element is substantially part of another element). This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as “connect,” “link,” “joint,” “install,” “combine,” “fix,” and their derivatives. Finally, the degree terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and “about” used herein refer to the amount of deviation of the modified term such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0134] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1 bicycle 2 frames 3 rear wheels 4 front forks 5 front wheels 6 pedals 7 crank arms 8 crankshaft 9 bicycle chains 10 Bicycle Derailleur System 10A rear derailleur (operated device) 10B front derailleur 11 bicycle parts 12 bicycle chainrings 12A rear sprocket 12B front sprocket 13 Actuators (Motors) 14 Operating devices 15 hands 16 clamps 17 First User Input Section 18 Second User Input Section 19 relay devices 19A Smartphone 19B wearable device 20 external devices 21 speakers 22 helmet 23 ribbons 24 helmet body 25 base components 26. Linkage mechanism (linkage component) 27 movable components 28 First Wireless Communication Device 29 First Controller 30 Second wireless communication device 31 Second Controller 32 Third wireless communication device 33 Third Controller 34 Fourth Wireless Communication Device 35. Fourth controller.

Claims

1. A bicycle component that can be mounted to a bicycle, the bicycle component comprising: A first user input unit is configured to receive a first input from a user. A wireless communication device configured to communicate wirelessly with a relay device, the relay device being a wearable device or a smartphone, and the relay device configured to communicate with an external device; as well as A controller configured to control the external device upon receiving the first input to the first user input unit.

2. The bicycle component according to claim 1 further includes an operating device. The first user input section is arranged on the operating device.

3. The bicycle component according to claim 2 further includes an operating device. The operated device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. The operated device has an actuator that can be actuated by the operating device.

4. The bicycle component according to claim 3, further comprising a second user input unit configured to receive a second input from the user. The actuator can be actuated when it receives the second input to the second user input section.

5. The bicycle component according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The operated device is configured to wirelessly transmit a signal to the relay device when it receives the first input to the first user input unit.

6. The bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The controller is configured to control the external device when it receives the first input to the first user input unit, while the wireless communication device is paired with the relay device but not with the external device.

7. A bicycle control system for controlling external devices, comprising: Bicycle component according to any one of claims 1 to 6; and The relay device.

8. The bicycle control system according to claim 7, wherein, The relay device is integrated into the helmet or can be attached to the helmet.

9. The bicycle control system according to claim 7, wherein, The relay device is a smartwatch, smart ring, smart wristband, or smart glasses.

10. The bicycle control system according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising the external device, The external device and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other.

11. The bicycle control system according to claim 10, wherein, The external device is at least one of a camera device, a light, a speaker, headphones, and a music player.

12. The bicycle control system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The external device is fixed to the relay device.

13. The bicycle control system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, The bicycle control system includes at least one additional external device, and the relay device and the at least one additional external device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other.

14. A bicycle control system for controlling external devices integrated into or attachable to a helmet, comprising: A bicycle component, which can be mounted to a bicycle, includes a first user input unit, a wireless communication device, and a controller; A relay device, which is integrated into the helmet or can be attached to the helmet; The wireless communicator and the relay device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other. The relay device is configured to communicate with the external device, and The controller is configured to control the external device upon receiving a first input to the first user input unit.

15. The bicycle control system according to claim 14, wherein, The bicycle components include an operating device. The first user input section is arranged on the operating device.

16. The bicycle control system according to claim 15, wherein, The bicycle components also include an operating device. The relay device and the operated device are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other, and The operated device is actuable by the operating device.

17. The bicycle control system according to any one of claims 14 to 16, further comprising at least one of the helmet and the external device.

18. The bicycle control system according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the external device is a camera device.

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