Rear derailleur, power source and power source arrangement

Abstract

Electronic rear derailleur (10) for a bicycle, comprising: a base element (1) for attachment to a frame element (13) of the bicycle; a cage arrangement (8); a movable element (5) to which the cage arrangement (8) is attached; a connection (92) that couples the movable element (5) to the base element (1) and is configured to allow the movable element (5) to move relative to the base element (1); a power source (2) with a battery connected to a base element (1) and a movable element (5); a motor (54) which is arranged on the other consisting of a base element (1) and a movable element (5); and an electrical conductor (47) that connects the power source (2) to the motor (54).

Description

[0001] This application claims priority over US Provisional Application No. 61 / 706,357, which was filed on September 27, 2012. Background of the invention

[0002] The invention relates to bicycle derailleurs. In particular, the invention is directed to electromechanical rear derailleurs. The invention also relates to a power source and a power source arrangement.

[0003] Electromechanical rear switching devices are known from the prior art documents DE 10 2011 079 009 A1, US 5 494 307 A and EP 1 752 373 A2. Summary of the invention

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to avoid or at least reduce the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide an electronic rear derailleur, a power source and a power source arrangement which improves bicycle gear shifting.

[0005] The object of the present invention is solved with respect to an electronic rear switching device by the features of claim 1, with respect to a current source by the features of claim 4 and with respect to a current source arrangement by the features of claim 8.

[0006] One aspect of the invention is an electronic rear derailleur for a bicycle, comprising a base element for attachment to a frame element of the bicycle. The rear derailleur includes a movable element, a connection that couples the movable element to the base element and is configured to allow movement of the movable element relative to the base element. A power source is detachably connected to the base element and the movable element. A motor is arranged on the other part of the base element and the movable element, and an electrical conductor connects the power source to the motor.

[0007] The electronic rear switchgear can further provide that the power source is detachably connected to the base element and the motor is arranged on the movable element.

[0008] The electronic rear switchgear may further provide that the connection includes an outer connecting element and an inner connecting element.

[0009] The electronic rear derailleur can further comprise a first pin that rotatably connects the outer connecting link to the base element, a second pin that rotatably connects the inner connecting link to the base element, and a third pin that rotatably connects the outer connecting link to the movable

[0010] The element connects, and a fourth pin that rotatably connects the inner connecting link to the movable element.

[0011] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the movable element includes a gearbox housing.

[0012] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further comprise a gearbox arranged in the gearbox housing, the gearbox being operated by the engine.

[0013] The electronic rear shift mechanism can also provide for the motor to be located in the gearbox housing.

[0014] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further provide that the motor includes an output shaft with a worm gear attached to it.

[0015] The electronic rear shift mechanism can further provide that the worm gear drives the gearbox to drive an output gear of the gearbox.

[0016] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the output gear is coupled to the inner connecting link to move the movable element.

[0017] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the gearbox includes at least one wheel that connects the worm gear to the output gear.

[0018] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the output gear is located on the fourth pin.

[0019] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the output gear is located on the fourth pin.

[0020] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the output wheel is rotatably arranged on the fourth pin.

[0021] The electronic rear derailleur may further comprise a drive arm coupled to the output wheel, the drive arm acting on the inner connecting link to move the movable element.

[0022] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the drive arm contacts a projection of the inner connecting link on a first side of the drive arm.

[0023] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further include a clutch spring arranged on the second pin, the clutch spring contacting the drive arm with preload.

[0024] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the drive spring includes a free end extending in the direction of the movable element and contacting the drive arm on a second side of the drive arm, the second side being opposite the first side of the drive arm.

[0025] The electronic rear shift mechanism may also include a coding wheel that engages with the output wheel.

[0026] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further comprise a magnet holder arranged in the gearbox housing, the magnet holder having a magnet that responds to movements of the coding wheel and a sensor arranged to detect the angular position of the coding wheel by means of the position of the magnet.

[0027] Another aspect of the invention is a power source for a bicycle derailleur, comprising a housing dimensioned and shaped to be detachably attached to a bicycle derailleur. A battery is arranged inside the housing. A connector is located on the outside of the housing and communicates electrically with the battery. A locking mechanism is provided on a base element of the front derailleur and a base element of the rear derailleur to detachably hold the housing in place.

[0028] The power source can also be designed to be interchangeably mounted on a front derailleur and a rear derailleur.

[0029] The power source may further comprise a mounting plate connected to a base element of a front derailleur and a rear derailleur, the mounting plate being dimensioned and shaped to accommodate the power source.

[0030] The power source may further provide that the mounting plate includes a pair of contacts arranged to align with the terminal when the power source is connected to the mounting plate.

[0031] The power source may further comprise a seal arranged on at least one of the pair of contacts and arranged in such a way as to provide a seal with the housing when the power source is connected to it.

[0032] The power source may further comprise an engagement element, which is arranged on a base element of the rear derailleur and the front derailleur respectively, and which is movable between an engagement position to attach the housing to the base element and a non-engagement position to remove the housing from the base element.

[0033] The power source may further include a pre-tensioning element arranged to pre-tension the engagement component into the engagement position.

[0034] The power source may further provide that the housing includes a trap which is shaped to allow the engagement component to engage within it.

[0035] The power source may also provide that the engagement element is a snap latch.

[0036] The power source may further provide that the housing includes one or more projections which are held in corresponding receiving elements formed in the base component.

[0037] The power source may further provide that the trap and one or more projections are arranged at opposite ends of the housing.

[0038] The power source can also provide that the housing is compressed in the transverse direction.

[0039] A further aspect of the invention is an electronic rear derailleur for a bicycle, comprising a base element for mounting on a frame element of the bicycle, a movable element, a connection that couples the movable element to the base element and is configured to allow movement of the movable element relative to the base element. A motor is arranged on the movable element, the motor being configured to move the movable element relative to the base element, the motor being wirelessly controllable, and a button is arranged on the movable element to control one or more operating parameters of the rear derailleur.

[0040] The electronic rear switchgear can further provide that the power source is detachably connected to the base element.

[0041] The electronic rear switchgear may further provide that the connection includes an outer connecting element and an inner connecting element.

[0042] The electronic rear derailleur may further comprise a first pin that rotatably connects the outer connecting link to the base element, a second pin that rotatably connects the inner connecting link to the base element, a third pin that rotatably connects the outer connecting link to the movable element, and a fourth pin that rotatably connects the inner connecting link to the movable element.

[0043] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the movable element includes a gearbox housing.

[0044] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further comprise a gearbox arranged in the gearbox housing, the gearbox being operated by the engine.

[0045] The electronic rear shift mechanism can also provide for the motor to be located in the gearbox housing.

[0046] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further provide that the motor includes an output shaft with a worm gear attached to it.

[0047] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the worm gear drives the gearbox in order to drive an output gear of the gearbox.

[0048] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the output gear is coupled to the inner connecting link to move the movable element.

[0049] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the gearbox includes at least one wheel that connects the worm gear to the output gear.

[0050] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the output gear is located on the fourth pin.

[0051] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the output gear is located on the fourth pin.

[0052] The electronic rear derailleur can further provide that the output wheel is rotatably arranged on the fourth pin.

[0053] The electronic rear derailleur may further comprise a drive arm coupled to the output wheel, the drive arm acting on the inner connecting link to move the movable element.

[0054] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the drive arm contacts a projection of the inner connecting link on a first side of the drive arm.

[0055] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further include a clutch spring arranged on the second pin, the clutch spring contacting the drive arm with preload.

[0056] The electronic rear derailleur may further provide that the drive spring includes a free end extending in the direction of the movable element and contacting the drive arm on a second side of the drive arm, the second side being opposite the first side of the drive arm.

[0057] The electronic rear shift mechanism may also include a coding wheel that engages with the output wheel.

[0058] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further comprise a magnet holder arranged in the gearbox housing, the magnet holder having a magnet that responds to movements of the coding wheel and a sensor arranged to detect the angular position of the coding wheel by means of the position of the magnet.

[0059] The electronic rear derailleur can also provide that the parameter is a pairing function.

[0060] A further aspect of the invention is an electronic rear derailleur for a bicycle, comprising a base element for attachment to a frame element of the bicycle, a movable element, a connection that couples the movable element to the base element and is configured to allow movement of the movable element relative to the base element. A gear unit is optionally arranged on the movable element and configured to move the movable element relative to the base element, the gear unit comprising a plurality of gears in a force path and a coding wheel independent of the force path, which receives a rotational input from one of the plurality of gears of the gear unit. A motor is optionally arranged on the movable element to operate the gear unit.

[0061] The electronic rear shift mechanism may further include an absolute encoder arranged to detect the position of the encoder wheel.

[0062] The electronic rear shift mechanism can further provide that the transmission includes an output gear and that the coding gear engages with the output gear.

[0063] The electronic rear derailleur can also provide for the output gear to be operated over an angular range.

[0064] The electronic rear switching mechanism may further provide that the coding wheel is dimensioned to be rotated over the operating range of the output wheel by an amount that approximates but does not exceed 360°.

[0065] The electronic rear switching mechanism can further provide that the output wheel is operated over a range of approximately 90° and that the coding wheel has a diameter of approximately one quarter of the output wheel.

[0066] A further aspect of the invention is a power source arrangement for an electronic bicycle gear shifting system, comprising a front derailleur, comprising a base element attached to the bicycle; a first power source detachably attached to the base element of the front derailleur; a rear derailleur comprising a base element attached to the bicycle; and a second power source detachably attached to the base element of the rear derailleur. Brief description of the characters Fig. Figure 1 shows a rear derailleur assembly installed on a bicycle. Fig. Figure 2 is a rear view of the rear derailleur assembly. Fig. 3 is a view according to EE of the rear switchgear arrangement from Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is the rear derailleur arrangement, wherein a cage arrangement of the rear derailleur is arranged in an outermost inner position. Fig. 5 is a section view along FF from Fig. 3, with some parts omitted for clarity. Fig. 6 is a sectional view along GG from Fig. 3, with some parts omitted for clarity. Fig. Figures 7a-d are side, front, bottom and isometric views of a power source for the rear switchgear. Fig. 8a, Fig. Figure 8b shows two views of the battery both installed on and removed from the rear derailleur, with the cage arrangement omitted for clarity. Fig. 9 is a section view along AA from Fig. 2. Fig. 10, Fig. Figures 11 are side views of the battery, showing it partially attached and completely removed from the rear shift mechanism. Fig. Figure 12 is a perspective view of a flexible cable arrangement. Fig. 13 is a section view along HH from Fig. 3. Fig. Figure 14 shows a view of the movable assembly with the cover removed to show the motor and gearbox. Fig. 15 is a section view along CC from Fig. 2, with some parts omitted for clarity. Fig. 16 is a section view along KK from Fig. 14, with some parts omitted for clarity. Fig. 17 is a section view along JJ from Fig. 14, with some parts omitted for clarity. Fig. 18 is a sectional view along BB from Fig. 2, where the cage arrangement has been omitted for clarity. Fig. 18a is the same view as Fig. 18, except that a clutch spring is shown in a partially deflected state. Fig. 19 is the same view as Fig. 18, except that the clutch spring is shown in a fully extended state. Fig. 20, Fig. 21 are sectional views along DD from Fig. 2, which show the functioning of the displacement limitation arrangement. Fig. Figure 22 is an exploded view of the movable assembly, with some parts omitted for clarity. Fig. Figure 23 is an oblique view of the rear derailleur assembly. Fig. Figure 24 is a side view of a front derailleur assembly. Detailed description of the invention

[0067] Embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the drawings. It is understood that these drawings and descriptions are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the invention as defined by the accompanying claims, nor any and all of its equivalents. For example, the terms "first" and "second," "front" and "rear," or "left" and "right" are used for clarity only and not as limiting terms. Furthermore, these terms refer to bicycle mechanisms that are conventionally attached to a bicycle, the bicycle being oriented and used in a standard manner unless otherwise specified.

[0068] Referring to Fig. 1, Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 The basic structure of the rear derailleur assembly 10 is generally similar to that of a conventional rear derailleur. The basic structure of the generally in Fig. The rear derailleur 10 shown in Figure 1, which can be a rear derailleur and, more precisely, an electromechanical rear derailleur or gear shifter, comprises a base element 1 that can be attached to a bicycle frame 13 in a conventional manner, an outer connecting element 3 and an inner connecting element 4 rotatably attached to the base element, and a movable element or assembly 5 rotatably connected to the outer and inner connecting elements at opposite ends to allow displacement of the movable assembly. The outer connecting element 3 and inner connecting element 4 can be considered together as components of a connection or linkage mechanism 92, for example, a parallelogram-type linkage mechanism. The base element 1 is also known as a B-knuckle and the movable element 5 is likewise known as a P-knuckle.The cage assembly 8 can be rotatably connected to the movable assembly 5 in a conventional manner. The bicycle chain 12 engages with the sprocket assembly 11 and the cage assembly 8 in a conventional manner and is displaced from sprocket to sprocket by the movement of the movable assembly 5 and cage assembly 8 relative to the base element 1.

[0069] Referring to Fig. 1 to 6 and initially referring to Fig. The connecting mechanism 92 connects the base element 1 and the movable element 5 and is attached between them, as is generally known, by means of a plurality of pivot or connecting pins. In this embodiment, the connection 92 comprises a first connecting pin 15 with a threaded section 15a, which engages in a blind hole with the base element 1. An inner bushing 17 of the first connecting pin is received in a first bore in the outer connecting member 3, and an outer bushing 18 of the first connecting pin is received in a second bore in the outer connecting member 3. The inner bushing 17 and the outer bushing 18 of the first connecting pin rotatably receive the first connecting pin 15. Thus, the outer connecting member 3 is rotatably connected to the base element 1.

[0070] A second connecting pin inner bushing 19 is received in a second bore in the base element 1. A second connecting pin outer bushing 20 is received in a third bore in the base element 1. A second connecting pin 16 is received in a first bore in an inner wall 4b of the inner connecting member 4 and is likewise received in a second bore in an outer wall of the inner connecting member 4. The second connecting pin 16 is rotatably received in a second connecting pin inner bushing 19 and a second connecting pin outer bushing 20. A second connecting pin retaining ring 21 engages in a groove in the second connecting pin 16 to hold the second connecting pin in position. Thus, the inner connecting member 4 is rotatably connected to the base element 1.

[0071] The following refers to Fig. A third connecting pin inner bushing 28 and a third connecting pin outer bushing 29 are received in bores in the outer connecting member 3. A third connecting pin 26 is received in a bore in a gearbox housing 6 and is rotatably mounted in the third connecting pin inner bushing 28 and the third connecting pin outer bushing 29. A third connecting pin retaining ring 30 engages with a groove in the third connecting pin 26. Thus, the gearbox housing 6 is rotatably connected to the outer connecting member 3.

[0072] Referring to Fig. 3, Fig. 6 and Fig. 17 The cover 7 is attached to the gearbox housing 6 by means of five screws 83 or another suitable fastening means, which extend through through holes in the cover 7 and engage in a threaded engagement with the gearbox housing 6.

[0073] Referring to Fig. Output gear 32 has an inner bearing 33 in a countersunk bore in the gearbox housing 6 and an outer bearing 34 in a countersunk bore in the cover 7. An inner O-ring 37 for the output gear is located in a bore in the gearbox housing 6 and an outer O-ring 38 for the output gear is located in a bore in the cover 7. The output gear 32 has a first tubular section 32b extending through the inner bearing 33 and the inner O-ring 37 for the output gear, and a second tubular section 32c extending through the outer bearing 34 and the outer O-ring 38 for the output gear. The output gear 32 is positioned between an inner wall 4b and an outer wall 4c of the inner connecting member 4 and is mounted on a fourth connecting pin 27.The fourth connecting pin 27 is received in a third bore in the inner wall 4b of the inner connecting link 4 and is likewise received in a fourth bore in the outer wall 4c of the inner connecting link 4. Thus, the gear housing 6 and the cover 7 are rotatably connected to the inner connecting link 4. More precisely, the gear housing 6, the cover 7, the output gear inner bearing 33, and the output gear outer bearing 34 are rotatable together as a single unit relative to the output gear 32, the inner connecting link 4, and the fourth connecting pin 27. Although the output gear 32 and the fourth connecting pin 27 are designed as two separate components, they can alternatively be formed as a single, one-piece component.

[0074] A fourth connecting pin retaining ring 31 engages with a groove in the fourth connecting pin 27. An inner thrust bearing 35 is arranged coaxially with the first tubular section 32b and abuts an outer surface of the gearbox housing 6. An outer thrust bearing 36 is arranged coaxially with the second tubular section 32c and abuts an outer surface of the cover 7. Referring to Fig. 6 and Fig. 18 Projections 9a of a drive arm 9 engage in crowns 32a [castellations] arranged at a distal end of the first tubular section 32b of the output wheel 32. Thus, the drive arm 9 is rotatably attached to the output wheel 32.

[0075] It is understood that the connection 92 on the base element 1 and movable element 5 can be held by axles and retaining means of a different kind and can be designed to be rotatable in a different way than by bearings and / or bushings, as shown in the present example.

[0076] Referring to Fig. 6 and Fig. 14 is a gearbox seal 25 arranged in a groove in the gearbox housing 6 and forms a watertight seal between the gearbox housing and the cover 7.

[0077] Referring to Fig. 7a-d is an electrical power source 2, which may comprise a rechargeable battery and may be of a lithium polymer type, contained within a battery housing 2d. Terminals 2c are provided on or slightly recessed below a front surface of the battery housing 2d and may be molded into the battery housing. A barb or trap 2a is arranged on an upper surface of the battery housing 2d, and one or more projections 2b are arranged on a lower surface of the battery housing. Due to the design (comprising the size and shape) of the battery housing 2d, comprising the barb 2a and the projections 2b, the battery housing may be detachably attached to a rear derailleur and may be interchangeable between a rear derailleur and a front derailleur.In this context, a replaceable battery is a significant improvement over a single wired battery (powering a front derailleur and a rear derailleur) should the single battery run out of power. If a pair of batteries 2 is used, with one battery each located at a rear derailleur and a front derailleur, the charged battery could be placed at the rear derailleur, and the rear derailleur would still be functional. Likewise, a battery could be attached in an emergency or shared with a riding companion. In particular, the housing 2d can have a large shape that could be described as "compressed laterally," allowing it to be attached to both the front derailleur and the rear derailleur, at least insofar as the shape of the battery housing does not inconvenience the user.

[0078] Referring to Fig. 9-12 includes a cable arrangement 48 a flexible cable 47, which may be a silicone-sheathed two-conductor cable, such as those from Cicoil ®manufactured with part number 969M101-28-2. A first end of the flexible cable 47 terminates within a soldered boss on a battery contact mounting plate 44. Two battery contacts 42, which may be made of phosphor bronze, are each fastened to the battery contact mounting plate 44 by a screw 43, which may, for example, extend through a hole in each battery contact and engage in a threaded engagement with the battery contact mounting plate. The battery contacts 42 may be made of or coated with a corrosion-resistant material, such as gold. A first conductor 47a of the flexible cable 47 is connected to one end of a battery contact 42 by soldering or other suitable means, and a second conductor (not shown) of the flexible cable is connected in a similar manner to one end of the other battery contact.A battery seal 41 is attached to a battery contact mounting plate 44 and can be made of silicone rubber, for example. A second end of the flexible cable 47 terminates inside a contact housing 50. The contact housing 50 accommodates a connector 49, which can be a coaxial element. The connector 49 can have two spring-loaded concentric conductors, such as those from TE Connectivity. ® manufactured with part number 1658260-1. The two conductors 47a, 47b of the flexible cable 47 are each electrically connected to the two conductors of the connector 49. An O-ring 51 is arranged within an O-ring gland in the contact housing 50.

[0079] Referring to Fig. 8b and Fig. 9 The battery seal 41, together with the battery contact mounting plate 44, is arranged in a recess in the base element 1. A screw 45 or other suitable fastener extends through a bore in the battery contact mounting plate 44 and engages with the base element 1 in a threaded connection, thereby firmly connecting the battery contact plate 44 to the base element 1. The battery mounting plate 44 can be a separate element attachable to the base element 1, as described, or it can be formed integrally (as a single piece) with the base element 1.

[0080] Referring to Fig. 8a and Fig. 9 is a battery latch pin 40 received by the base element 1. The battery latch 39 has a corresponding through-hole that rotatably receives the battery latch pin 40. A latch spring 46 is received in a blind hole in the base element 1 and forces the battery latch 39 counterclockwise around the battery latch pin 40, as shown in Fig. Figure 9 shows that the battery latch 39 has a hook-shaped end that engages in the barb 2a of the battery housing 2d, and the compressive force of the latch spring 46 pushes the hook-shaped end of the battery latch against the surface of the battery housing. The latch 39 can be any suitable mechanism, latching device, engagement component, locking component, etc., for holding and releasing the battery housing 2d.

[0081] Referring to Fig. 8b and Fig. 9 The base element 1 has two battery insertion holes 1a. Referring to Fig. 9. Projections 2b of the battery housing 2d engage with corresponding battery insertion holes 1a in the base element 1. The battery housing 2d is held in a fixed position that forces a slight deformation of the battery seal 41, thereby forming a watertight seal against the front surface of the battery housing. The deformation of the battery seal 41 also causes the battery seal to exert a compressive force against the front surface of the battery housing 2d, thus compressing the surface in Fig. 9 is forced to the left. This compressive force consequently causes the barb 2a of the battery housing 2d to be forced to the left against the hook of the battery latch 39 and causes the projections 2b of the battery housing to be forced to the left against the battery engagement holes 1a. In this way, any play between the battery housing 2d and the base element 1 is eliminated, and the battery is positively locked in the switch assembly 20. The installed position of the battery housing 2d also forces a slight bending of the battery contacts 42 against the battery terminals 2c, thereby creating a pressure contact between the battery contacts and the battery terminals, which promotes current flow.

[0082] The Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 11 shows the procedure by which a user can easily remove battery 2 from the rear derailleur 10. Referring to Fig. 10. The user presses the right end of the latch 39 downwards, causing the latch to rotate clockwise around the latch pin 40 against the compressive force of the latch spring 46. This consequently causes the hook-shaped end of the latch to rotate out of engagement with the barb 2a of the battery housing 2d. The user then rotates the battery housing 2d counterclockwise around the point of engagement of the projections 2b and the battery engagement surface 1a. Referring to Fig. 11. The user can lift the battery in a general upward motion if the battery housing 2d has been rotated sufficiently counterclockwise, causing the protrusions 2a of the battery housing to disengage from the battery engagement holes 1a of the base element 1. In this way, the battery housing 2d is removed from the rear switch assembly 10. By reversing this process, the user can easily reinstall the battery 2 in the rear switch assembly 10.

[0083] Referring to Fig. 18 The flexible cable arrangement 48 extends through a bore in the base element 1 and stretches between the outer connecting element 3 and the inner connecting element 4. Referring to Fig. 13, Fig. 18 and Fig. 23 The contact housing 50 of the flexible cable assembly 48 engages with a complementary recess in the gearbox housing 6. Two screws 88 extend through bores in the contact housing 50 and engage in a threaded connection with the gearbox housing 6, thereby firmly connecting the contact housing to the gearbox housing. Referring to Fig. 13 is an O-ring 51 that is inserted into a bore in the gearbox housing 6 and forms a watertight seal between the contact housing 50 and the gearbox housing.

[0084] Referring to Fig. 13, Fig. 14 and Fig. 17 A printed circuit board assembly 52 is attached to an inner surface of the gearbox housing 6, for example by means of a screw 56. The printed circuit board assembly comprises the various electronic elements and circuits for controlling the various functions of the rear shift mechanism 10. Additional layout features may be provided in the gearbox housing 6 (not shown) to ensure that the printed circuit board assembly 52 is precisely positioned within the gearbox housing. Referring to Fig. 13 and Fig. 17. The printed circuit board assembly 52 and the contact housing 50 are arranged close enough to each other to force the spring-loaded connector 49 into compression, thereby creating a pressure contact between the connector 49 and the printed circuit board assembly, which promotes current flow. In this way, the flexible cable assembly 48 is in electrical communication with the printed circuit board assembly 52.

[0085] Referring to Fig. 13 is a motor 54, preferably a DC motor, and can be electrically connected to the printed circuit board assembly 52 via a flexible cable 53. The motor 54 could instead be electrically connected to the printed circuit board assembly 52 by other means, such as wire jumpers or a flexible section of the printed circuit board. Referring to Fig. 22 The motor mounting bracket 55 is attached to the gearbox housing 6 by means of three screws 87 or other common fasteners. Referring to Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15 and Fig. 22 A ball bearing 71 is received in a bore in the motor mounting bracket 55, and a distal end of the output shaft of the motor 54 is received by the ball bearing to be rotatably mounted. Two screws 72 or other suitable fasteners extend through bores in the motor mounting bracket 55 and are connected to the motor 54, thereby securing the motor to the motor mounting bracket. The motor 54 drives a gear 90, which causes a movement of the movable element 5 relative to the base element 1 to effect position changes of the rear shift mechanism 10.

[0086] The gearbox 90 converts the motion of the motor 54 into a motion of the rear shift mechanism 10 and may include a worm gear 70 which is attached to the output shaft of the motor, for example, by means of a press fit or an adhesive. Referring to Fig. 15, Fig. 16 and Fig. 22 A first gear wheel 58 and a worm wheel 57 can be pressed together in a conventional manner, well known in the gearbox manufacturing industry, and are arranged in a recess in the motor mounting bracket 55, such that the worm wheel is in mesh with the worm 70. A through-hole extends concentrically with the through-hole of the first gear wheel 58 between the two side walls of the recess. A first gear wheel shaft 73 is received in the through-hole in the recess and is rotatably received in the through-hole of the first gear wheel 58. A distal end of the first gear wheel shaft 73 extends into a blind hole in the gearbox housing 6. One end of a second gear wheel shaft 74 is received in a blind hole in the gearbox housing 6, and the other end of the second gear wheel shaft is received in a bore in the motor mounting block 55.A second gear wheel 60 and a first spur gear 59 can be connected to each other via an interference fit and are rotatably mounted on a second gear wheel shaft 74. The first spur gear 59 is in mesh with the first gear wheel 58. Referring to . Fig. 16. A third gear axle bearing 76 is pressed into a blind bore in the gearbox housing 6, and another third gear axle bearing 76 is pressed into a blind bore in the cover 7. The ends of the third gear axle 75 are each received in the third gear axle bearings 76. A third gear 62 and a second spur gear 61 are connected to each other via an interference fit and rotatably mounted on the third gear axle 75. The second spur gear 61 meshes with the second gear 60, and the third gear 62 meshes with the output gear 32. It is understood that the gearbox 90 and its components may be designed differently, whereby operation of the motor 54 by means of the gearbox 90 results in movement of the rear shift mechanism 10.

[0087] Referring to Fig. 14, Fig. 15 and Fig. A coding wheel axle 81 is mounted in a blind bore in the cover 7. A magnet holder 80 and a coding wheel 63 are connected to each other via an interference fit or can be injection-molded as a single, one-piece component. A magnet 78 is attached to the magnet holder 80 via an interference fit or with an adhesive, and a magnetic spacer 79 is attached to the magnet via an interference fit or with an adhesive. The coding wheel 63 engages with the output wheel 32 and is rotatably connected to the coding wheel axle 81. Thus, the coding wheel 63, the magnet holder 80, the magnet 78, and the magnetic spacer 79 can all rotate together as a single unit around the coding wheel axle 81. The coding wheel 63 is part of the gearbox 90, which is not located in the force path between the motor 54 and the output wheel 32.

[0088] Furthermore, one aspect of an embodiment of the invention consists in dimensioning the coding wheel 63 such that it rotates nearly 360° over the full range of rotation performed by the output wheel 32. In other words, if the output wheel 32 rotates 90° through its full range of motion, the coding wheel can be dimensioned to rotate approximately four times as far as the output wheel, or by a quarter of the diameter of the output wheel if it is directly attached to it. This results in the coding wheel rotating an amount that approaches, but does not exceed, 360°. This provides a high resolution.

[0089] Referring to Fig. 17 can be a coding chip 77 a magnetic rotary encoder with Hall effect sensors, for example the one from Austria Microsystems ®manufactured with part number AS505, and is a component of the printed circuit board assembly 52. ​​The center of the coding chip 77 is essentially coaxial with the magnet 78. This allows the encoder to be an absolute encoder.

[0090] Referring again to Fig. 14, Fig. 15 and Fig. 17 A preloading gear shaft 82 is received in a blind bore in the cover 7. The preloading wheel 64 is rotatably connected to the preloading gear shaft 82 and engages with the coding wheel 63. One end of a preloading gear spring 65 is connected to the preloading wheel 64, and the other end of the preloading gear spring is connected to a bearing feature (not shown) in the cover 7. The preloading gear spring 65 forces the preloading wheel 64 into Fig. 14 counterclockwise and the preload wheel then pushes the coding wheel 63 into Fig. 14 clockwise, thereby eliminating any play or radial backlash between the coding wheel 63 and the output wheel 32.

[0091] Referring to Fig. 18 comprises a clutch spring 22 and a clutch spring sleeve 23, which is arranged on the second connecting pin 16. The coil parts of the clutch spring 22 are formed around the clutch spring sleeve 23. A first leg 22a of the clutch spring 22 biases the drive arm 9 against the projection 4a of the inner connecting member 4. Referring to Fig. 20 a second leg 22b of the coupling spring 22 engages in a surface of the inner connecting member 4.

[0092] Referring again to Fig. In the first connecting pin 15, the coils of a pre-tensioning spring 24 are arranged around the first connecting pin 15, and a first leg of the pre-tensioning spring forces the outer connecting member 3 counterclockwise around the first connecting pin. A second leg (not shown) of the pre-tensioning spring 24 engages a surface of the base element 1. Since the inner connecting member 4 is operatively connected to the outer connecting member 3, the inner connecting member is likewise forced counterclockwise around the second connecting pin 16. Because the drive arm 9 is pre-tensioned against the projection 4a of the inner connecting member 4, and the drive arm is non-rotatably engaged with the output gear 32, the compressive force of the pre-tensioning spring 24 is transmitted back to the worm gear 70 via the drive gear path, thereby eliminating any play or radial clearance in the drive gear path.

[0093] Referring to Fig. 14, Fig. 15 and Fig. 23 A button 66 can be a momentary electrical switch or the like, which is a component of the printed circuit board assembly 52. ​​A button actuator 67 can be a rotating body that is received in a through-hole of the gearbox housing 6. A sealing component (not shown) is arranged around an O-ring gland (not shown) of the button actuator 67 and forms a watertight seal between the button actuator and the gearbox housing 6. When the button actuator 67 is pressed by the user, it moves axially until it actuates the button 66, thereby changing its switching state. When the button actuator 67 is released by the user, the button 66 pushes the actuator axially away from the button, and the button returns to its original switching state.

[0094] Button 66 can be used during the wireless pairing of the rear switching assembly 10 with its corresponding user-operated switches (not shown), and it can also be used for other purposes, such as fine-tuning the position of the cage assembly 8 relative to the gear assembly 11. It is understood that button 66 can be used by the user to control a variety of operating parameters of the rear switching assembly 10.

[0095] An LED 68 is a light-emitting diode that is a component of the printed circuit board assembly 52. ​​A lens 69 is essentially cylindrical in shape and is secured in a through-hole in the gearbox housing 6 by, for example, either an interference fit or an adhesive, thus providing a watertight seal between the lens and the gearbox housing. Alternatively, a flexible gasket could be provided between the lens 69 and the gearbox housing 6 to create a watertight seal. The function of the LED 68 is to emit light that passes through the lens 69 and is visible to the user, indicating the status of the rear switchgear assembly 10.The LED 68 can be used for wireless pairing of the rear switch assembly 10 with its corresponding switches (not shown), and it can also be used for other purposes, such as signaling to the user that battery 2 has a low voltage. It is understood that any configuration of the LED is intended to make it visible to a user.

[0096] Referring to Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 comprises a displacement limiting or displacement adjustment mechanism 14, a limiting screw 84 with a threaded section 84a rotatably received in a through-bore in a sleeve 85 and engaging in threaded engagement with a threaded bore in the base element 1. The sleeve 85 has a smooth cylindrical outer surface and a non-circular, for example square, inner surface 85 with a square cross-section, which engages non-rotatably but axially movable relative to a corresponding or square section 84b of the limiting screw 84, which may have a complementary square cross-section. A limiting helical spring 86 is a compression spring arranged around the threaded section 84a and which holds the sleeve 85 in Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 essentially pushes to the right against a surface of the base element 1. When the user rotates the sleeve 85 by hand, the limiting screw 84 rotates likewise and simultaneously moves axially relative to the sleeve due to its threaded engagement with the base element 1. Several chamfered recesses 85a in an end face of the sleeve 85 engage in complementary projections (not shown) on a surface of the base element 1, thereby producing a detent effect that holds the sleeve in the position set by the user.

[0097] Both in Fig. In both 20 and 21, the inner connecting link 4 is shown contacting the end of the limiting screw 84, and further clockwise rotation of the inner connecting link around the second connecting pin 16 is prevented by the limiting screw 84. The function of the limiting screw 84 is to limit the rotation of the inner connecting link 4 relative to the base element 1 to ensure that the cage assembly 8 does not collide with the spokes of the bicycle wheel to which the rear derailleur assembly 10 is attached. Comparing the Fig. 20 and Fig. 21 shows that in Fig. 20 the limiting screw 84 is relatively retracted and allows a relatively large amount of rotation of the inner connecting member 4 relative to the base element 1, while in Fig. 21 the limiting screw protrudes further from the base element, thereby limiting the rotation of the inner connecting link to a greater extent. While conventional rear derailleur limiting screws are actuated with a tool such as a hex wrench, allowing a user to apply a relatively large amount of torque to the limiting screw, the smooth cylindrical outer surface of the sleeve 85 limits the amount of torque a user can apply, as the smooth surface of the sleeve slips between the user's fingers at a relatively low torque threshold.The advantage of this arrangement compared to conventional limit screws is that it greatly limits the amount of force that the limit screw can exert on the parallelogram of the rear shift mechanism 10, and thereby greatly limits the amount of force transmitted by the gearbox 90, thus minimizing the possibility of damage to gear teeth or other components.

[0098] The rear shifting assembly 52 includes a transceiver (not shown), where transceiver is a generic term describing a device capable of both wirelessly transmitting and receiving signals. The transceiver periodically listens for wireless switching commands from switching controllers, which can be actuated by actuators located on or in the handlebar hoods of the bicycle (not shown). When a wireless switching command is received by the transceiver, the transceiver forwards the switching command to a processor, and a PID control loop is used to control the flow of electrical current from the battery 2 through the flexible cable assembly 48 and the circuit board assembly to the motor 54. The output shaft of the motor 54 rotates either clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on whether an upshift or downshift is requested, and causes the actuation of the gearbox 90.The resulting rotation of the worm 70 causes a rotation of the worm wheel 57, which rotates together with the first gear wheel 58 to rotate the first worm wheel 59, which rotates together with the second gear wheel 60 to rotate the second spur gear 61, which rotates together with the third gear wheel 62 to rotate the output wheel 32.

[0099] In the event that a downshift, i.e., a change to a larger gear ring, is desired, the crowns 32a of the output gear 32 rotate the drive arm 9 in Fig. 18 rotates clockwise around the fourth connecting pin 27, which in turn drives the projection 4a clockwise together with the inner connecting link 4, causing the movable assembly 5 and the cage assembly 8 to move inward toward the larger gear rings. As the cage assembly 8 moves inward, the coding chip 77, together with the magnet 78, is used to monitor the angular position of the coding wheel 63, and when the coding wheel position corresponding to the desired gear ring is reached, the current to the motor 54 is switched off, as the cage assembly 8 aligns with the desired gear ring. As described above, the preloading spring 24 eliminates any play or radial clearance in the drive gear train, ensuring that the cage assembly 8 is positioned precisely and repeatably.

[0100] In the event that an upshift, i.e., a change to a smaller gear ring, is desired, crowns 32a of the output gear 32 rotate the drive arm 9 in Fig. 18 counterclockwise around the fourth connecting pin 27, which in turn drives the clutch spring 22 together with the inner connecting link counterclockwise, causing the movable assembly 5 and the cage assembly 8 to move outwards towards the smaller gear rings. As the cage assembly 8 moves outwards, the coding chip 77 together with the magnet 78 is used to monitor the position of the coding wheel 63, and when the coding wheel position corresponding to the desired gear ring is reached, the current to the motor is switched off, as the cage assembly 8 is aligned with the desired gear ring. As described above, the preloading spring 24 eliminates any play or radial clearance in the drive gear train, thus ensuring that the cage assembly 8 is positioned precisely and repeatably.

[0101] Due to the presence of the worm 70 in the drive train, the drive train is not reversible. In other words, the worm wheel cannot drive the worm due to friction, although rotating the worm 70 can drive the worm wheel 57. As a consequence, if an external force, for example in the event of a collision or other impact, acts on the movable assembly 5 or the external connecting link 3, this force is transmitted through the drive arm 9 to the gears of the gear drive train 90, and one or more of the gears or associated components may break or be damaged. To prevent such breakage or damage, the following system may be provided.If the movable arrangement 5 or the outer connecting member 3 experiences an excessive external force, for example from an inward-directed collision, the drive arm 9 overcomes the preload of the first leg 22a of the coupling spring 22 and deforms the first leg, as in . Fig. 18a shown. This causes the energy of the external force to be absorbed by the clutch spring 22, and the movable assembly 5 moves relative to the base element 1 without any rotation of the drive arm 9 relative to the movable assembly. In this state, guide rails 9b on each side of the first leg 22a of the clutch spring 22 prevent the first leg from disengaging from the drive arm 9. When the external force is removed from the rear shift assembly 10, the compressive force of the first leg 22a of the clutch spring 22 moves the drive arm 9, together with the movable assembly 5, back to the position shown in Figure 18a. Fig. 18 position shown. In extreme cases of external forces acting on the movable arrangement 5 and the outer connecting member 3, the drive arm 9 can deflect the first leg 22a of the clutch spring 22 as far as shown. Fig. 19 cause. In this state, a fixed stop 9c of the drive arm 9 rests against the projection 4a of the inner connecting link 4. When the external force is removed from the rear shift mechanism assembly 10, the compressive force of the first leg 22a of the clutch spring 22 is unable to return the drive arm 9 and the movable assembly 5 to the position shown in Fig. To move to the position shown in 18, the user must manually return the movable arrangement to the position shown. Fig. Move to the position shown in 18a, from where the first leg will be able to move the drive arm and the movable assembly back to the position shown in Fig. to move to the position shown in 18.

[0102] After a period of inactivity, i.e., no switching commands have been received, most of the electronic systems of the circuit board assembly 52 can switch off to save power. During this time, the transceiver is switched off and cannot receive switching commands. A vibration sensor (not shown) is provided on the circuit board assembly 52, which, when it detects vibrations, causes the electronic systems of the circuit board assembly, including the transceiver, to switch back on. The vibrations that naturally occur while riding the bicycle, which can be caused by the interaction of the road with the bicycle and the interaction of the various components of the bicycle with each other, are strong enough to activate the vibration sensor and prevent the electronic systems of the circuit board assembly 52 from switching off. But when the bicycle is not being ridden, i.e.,When parked, the vibration sensor detects no vibrations, and most of the electronic systems on the circuit board shut down to conserve power. As soon as the rider touches the bike, the resulting vibration activates the vibration sensor, at which point the electronic systems are switched back on. The vibration sensor could be, for example, a MEMS-type three-axis accelerometer, such as a Free Scale. ® The MMA7660FC or MMA845IQ, or an omnidirectional chatter-type sensor, such as a Signal Quest SQ-MIN-200. It is understood that the application of the vibration sensor to the system described above is within the capabilities of an average person.

[0103] Referring to Fig.Figure 24 shows a front derailleur assembly 110 comprising a battery 2 and a battery housing 2d. The front derailleur assembly 110 includes a base element 101 to which a battery housing 2d is detachably attached. A connection 192 is movably attached to the base element 101. A cage assembly 199 is attached to the connection 192. Since the battery housing 2d is shaped and dimensioned to be attached to either a rear derailleur or a front derailleur, the battery can be interchangeable between them. It is understood that the base element 101 of the illustrated front derailleur assembly 110 includes means for attaching the battery housing 2d and means for providing an electrical connection, which are similar to or identical with respect to the rear derailleur shown and described herein.

[0104] While this invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it should be understood that various modifications could be made within the inventive concept and scope of the described inventive concepts. Therefore, it is intended that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment, but rather has the full scope permitted by the wording of the following claims.

Claims

[1] Electronic rear derailleur (10) for a bicycle, comprising: a base element (1) for attachment to a frame element (13) of the bicycle; a cage arrangement (8); a movable element (5) to which the cage arrangement (8) is attached; a connection (92) that couples the movable element (5) to the base element (1) and is configured to allow the movable element (5) to move relative to the base element (1); a power source (2) with a battery connected to a base element (1) and a movable element (5); a motor (54) which is arranged on the other consisting of a base element (1) and a movable element (5); and an electrical conductor (47) that connects the power source (2) to the motor (54). [2] Electronic rear switching mechanism (10) according to claim 1, wherein the power source (2) is detachably connected to the base element (1) and the motor (54) is arranged on the movable element (5). [3] Electronic rear switch (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection (92) comprises an outer connecting element (3) and an inner connecting element (4), and in particular wherein the electronic rear switch (10) further comprises a first pin (15) rotatably connecting the outer connecting element (3) to the base element (1), a second pin (16) rotatably connecting the inner connecting element (4) to the base element (1), a third pin (26) rotatably connecting the outer connecting element (3) to the movable element (5), and a fourth pin (27) rotatably connecting the inner connecting element (4) to the movable element (5). [4] Power source (2) for a bicycle derailleur (10, 110), comprising: a housing (2d) which is dimensioned and shaped in such a way as to be detachably attached to the bicycle derailleur (10, 110); a battery arranged in the housing (2d); a connection on the outside of the housing (2d) which is in electrical communication with the battery; and a locking mechanism on the bicycle derailleur (10, 110) to keep the housing (2d) detachably attached to it, characterized by , that the power source (2) is designed to be interchangeably mounted on a front derailleur (110) and a rear derailleur (10), wherein a mounting plate (44) is connected to a base element (1) of each of the front derailleur (110) and the rear derailleur (10), wherein the mounting plate (44) is dimensioned and shaped to accommodate the power source (2), wherein the mounting plate (44) comprises a pair of contacts arranged to align with the terminal when the power source (2) is connected to the mounting plate (44), and wherein the mounting plate (44) comprises a seal (41) which is arranged on at least one of the pair of contacts and is arranged to provide a seal with the housing (2d) when the power source (2) is connected to it. [5] Power source (2) according to claim 4, wherein an engagement element (39) is arranged on a base element (1) of the rear derailleur (10) and front derailleur (110) and is movable between an engagement position to attach the housing (2d) to the base element (1) and a non-engagement position to remove the housing (2d) from the base element (1), and in particular, wherein the power source (2) comprises a preloading element (46) arranged to preload the engagement element (39) into the engagement position, and in particular wherein the engagement element (39) is a snap latch. [6] Power source (2) according to claim 5, wherein the housing (2d) comprises a trap (2a) which is shaped for engagement of the engagement element (39) therein, and in particular, wherein the housing (2d) comprises one or more projections which are held in corresponding receiving elements formed in the base element (39), and in particular, wherein the trap (2a) and the one or more projections are arranged at opposite ends of the housing (2d). [7] Power source (2) according to claim 6, wherein the housing (2d) is compressed in the transverse direction. [8] Power source arrangement for an electronic bicycle gear shifting system, comprising: a front derailleur (110), comprising a base element (101) attached to a bicycle; a first power source (2) which is detachably attached to the base element (101) of the front derailleur (110); a rear derailleur (10) comprising a base element (1) attached to the bicycle; and a second power source (2) which is detachably attached to the base element (1) of the rear switching mechanism (10), characterized by , that the first and second power sources (2) are designed to be interchangeably mounted on the front derailleur (110) and the rear derailleur (10).

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