Bicycle component actuation device

Abstract

Bicycle component actuation device (10), comprising at least one actuating element (16, 18) which is movably supported on a base element (14) so ​​that the actuating element (16, 18) can be moved from a rest position to an input position, and a control unit (24) with a memory (35), wherein the control unit (24) is configured to electrically set the input position of the at least one actuating element (16, 18) to start an actuation of at least one bicycle component, wherein the control unit (24) is configured to electrically set the input position according to a user setting which is stored in the memory (35).

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a bicycle component operating device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a bicycle component operating device in which an input position of an operating member for starting an operation of a bicycle component is electrically adjusted. State of the art

[0002] Bicycles are often equipped with one or more bicycle components that can be operated and / or adjusted by a rider while riding. Examples of some of these bicycle components include electric suspension, an electric gear shifting device (e.g., an electric rear derailleur or an electric hub gear), and an electric seat post. An electric bicycle component operating device is usually provided on a bicycle (e.g., on a bicycle handlebar) for a rider to electrically operate and / or adjust these bicycle components. These bicycle component operating devices are usually provided with at least one actuating element that is movable from a rest position to an actuating position for starting an actuation of at least one bicycle component.

[0003] DE 10 2011 003 431 A1 discloses a rotary handle unit. The rotary handle unit has a rotary handle as an actuating element, which is movably supported on a base element so that the actuating element can be moved from an initial position to a maximum position. The rotary handle unit further comprises a controller with a microprocessor. The rotary handle unit is designed to generate a variable magnetic field by means of a magnetic element that can be rotated by rotating the rotary handle. This variable magnetic field is detected by a magnetic field sensor and converted into an electrical signal for an actuator. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] In general, the present invention is directed to various features of a bicycle component operating device configured to operate at least one bicycle component. In most conventional bicycle component operating devices, either the user operating member is not adjustable to change an input position of the operating member for initiating operation of the bicycle component, or such adjustment is performed mechanically.

[0005] In light of the prior art, the object is to provide a bicycle component actuating device which is designed to electrically adjust an input position of at least one actuating element for starting an actuation of at least one bicycle component.

[0006] According to the present invention, a bicycle component actuating device is provided, comprising at least one actuating element movably supported on a base element such that the actuating element can be moved from a rest position to an input position, and a controller with a memory. The controller is configured to electrically adjust the input position of the at least one actuating element for initiating an actuation of at least one bicycle component. The controller is configured to electrically adjust the input position according to a user setting stored in the memory.

[0007] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device further comprises a position detecting element configured to detect the input position of the at least one actuating element.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the position detecting element comprises at least one tactile switch, a Hall effect sensor or a magnetoresistive sensor.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component operating device is designed so that the position detecting element non-physically detects the input position.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component operating device is configured such that the position detecting element detects a strength of a magnetic field to detect the input position.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is configured such that the controller determines the input position based on a level of the strength of the magnetic field.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is configured such that the controller has a user input to set a limit value corresponding to the input position.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the position detecting element has a first sensor that detects a first actuating element of the at least one actuating element and a second sensor that detects a second actuating element of the at least one actuating element.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed so that the first and second sensors are Hall effect sensors.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the position detecting element further comprises a third sensor which detects the first and second actuating elements.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the first and second sensors are Hall effect sensors and the third sensor is a magnetoresistive sensor.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the controller puts the second sensor into a sleep mode based on a movement of the first actuating element.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the controller puts the second and third sensors into a sleep mode based on a movement of the first actuating element.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the second actuating element moves the first actuating element when the second actuating element is moved.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the controller is designed to electrically adjust a plurality of the input positions of the at least one actuating element.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the controller determines whether the first actuating element is in a first input position or a second input position based on a signal from the third sensor.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the bicycle component actuating device is designed such that the controller determines whether the second actuating element is in a third input position or a fourth input position based on a signal from the third sensor.

[0023] Other features, aspects, or advantages of the disclosed bicycle component operating device will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the attached drawings, discloses an embodiment of the bicycle component operating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure, Fig. 1 is a partial perspective view of a right end of a bicycle handlebar equipped with a bicycle component operating device in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; Fig. 2 is a simplified schematic block diagram showing an exemplary configuration of a bicycle control device incorporating the Fig. 1 illustrated bicycle component actuating device; Fig. 3 a simplified schematic diagram of the Fig. 1, illustrating an exemplary configuration for electrically adjusting input positions of first and second operating elements for starting an operation of a bicycle component; Fig. 4 is a graph showing the relationships between switch actuator angles and output voltages of the third sensor of the Fig. 1 shows the bicycle component actuating device; Fig. 5 is a screen image for electrically adjusting an operating position of a rear shift lever; Fig. 6 is a screen image for electrically adjusting an operating position of a front shift lever; Fig. 7 shows another screen image for electrically adjusting the operating position of the rear gear lever; Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the relationships between the operation of the first operating member and sensor output signals of the first and second sensors of the bicycle component operating device; Fig. 9 an enlarged perspective view of selected parts of the Fig. 1, with a housing and a handlebar clamp omitted; Fig. 10 a perspective exploded view of the Fig. 1 illustrated bicycle component actuating device; Fig. 11 a further perspective exploded view of the selected parts of the Fig. 9 illustrated bicycle component actuating device; Fig. 12 a side view of the selected parts of the Fig. 9 and Fig. 11, as viewed from the center of the handlebar toward the right end of the handlebar; Fig. 13 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the bicycle component actuating device having a click mechanism; Fig. 14 is a side view of selected parts of the bicycle component actuating device, with the first and second actuating elements in their rest positions; Fig. 15 is a side view of selected parts of the bicycle component actuating device with the first actuating member moved to an actuating position and the second actuating member in the rest position; Fig. 16 is a side view of the selected parts of the bicycle component actuating device, wherein the first actuating element is moved to an actuating position which is further from the rest position than in Fig. 15 is removed, has been moved and the second actuating element is in the rest position; Fig. 17 is a side view of selected parts of the bicycle component actuating device with the first and second actuating elements moved to an actuating position; Fig. 18 is a side view of the selected parts of the bicycle component actuating device, wherein the first and second actuating elements are moved to an actuating position which is further from the rest position than in Fig. 17 is removed, was moved; and Fig. 19 is a series of partial side views of the click mechanism of the bicycle component operating device being actuated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0025] A preferred embodiment will now be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0026] Initially referring to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, a bicycle component operating device 10 is shown in accordance with a first illustrative embodiment. The bicycle component operating device 10 is mounted on a bicycle handlebar 12 having a handlebar axis A, as shown in Fig. 1 is visible. As in Fig. 2, the bicycle component actuating device 10 is part of a bicycle control device that, for example, in the illustrated embodiment, changes a gear ratio of a bicycle drive train, as discussed. The bicycle component actuating device 10 essentially comprises a base member 14, a first actuating member 16, and a second actuating member 18, as shown in Fig. 1. The first actuating element 16 is movably supported on the base element 14 from a rest position to an actuated position. The second actuating element 18 is also movably supported on the base element 14 from a rest position to an actuated position. In the illustrated embodiment, the second actuating element 18 moves the first actuating element 16 when the second actuating element 18 is moved, as discussed further below. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the bicycle component operating device 10 further includes a click mechanism 20 that notifies a rider when the first and second operating members 16 and 18 have been moved to operate an electric bicycle component, as discussed below.

[0027] Likewise, in the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the bicycle component operating device 10 further includes an electrical control unit 22 that is actuated by movement of each of the first and second actuating members 16 and 18. Because the bicycle component operating device 10 is provided with the electrical control unit 22, the bicycle component operating device 10 constitutes an electrical bicycle operating device for electrically actuating at least one bicycle component. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, certain aspects of the bicycle component operating device 10 disclosed herein may be used in a non-electrically actuated bicycle operating device that pulls or releases a cable in response to actuation of the first and second actuating members 16 and 18.

[0028] As in Fig. 2, the electrical control unit 22 comprises a controller 24, a first sensor 26 and a second sensor 28. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the electrical control unit 22 further comprises a third sensor 30. Preferably, for example, the controller 24, the first sensor 26, the second sensor 28 and the third sensor 30 are mounted together on a printed circuit board PC ( Fig. 12) mounted on the base member 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 is integrated on the circuit board PC of the bicycle component actuating device 10, as shown in Fig. 1, however, the controller 24 may be embodied as part of other areas of a bicycle, such as part of a controller or microprocessor of a transmission or part of a main microcomputer 32. Basically, the first sensor 26 detects an operation of the first operating member 16 and outputs signals to the controller 24 based on the movement of the first operating member 16. In particular, the first sensor 26 detects an operation position of the first operating member 16 (e.g., an input position of the first operating member 16 or a first input position and a second input position of a first operating member). The second sensor 28 detects an operation of the second operating member 18 and outputs signals to the controller 24 based on the movement of the second operating member 18.In particular, the second sensor 28 detects an actuation position of the second actuation element 18 (for example, an input position of a second actuation element or a third input position and a fourth input position of a second actuation element). The third sensor 30 detects the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 form a position detection element configured to detect the actuation positions of the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18 (for example, an input position of at least one actuation element). In other words, the position detection element includes the first sensor 26, which detects the first actuation element 16 (for example, at least one actuation element), and the second sensor 28, which detects the second actuation element 18 (for example, at least one actuation element).Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the position detecting element further includes the third sensor 30, which detects the first and second actuators 16 and 18. The electrical control unit 22 further includes conventional components, such as an input interface circuit, an output interface circuit, and storage devices, such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) device and a RAM (Random Access Memory) device, as desired and / or needed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the precise structure and algorithms for the electrical control unit 22 may be any combination of hardware and software capable of performing the functions of the present invention.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 wirelessly or non-physically detect the actuation of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18. In other words, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 are non-physical contacts to the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 are Hall effect sensors (Hall IC) comprising a Hall effect element and a comparator. The first and second sensors 26 and 28 output a first signal (e.g., an H signal) when the Hall effect element detects the strength of the magnetic field to be equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and a second signal (e.g., an L signal) when the Hall effect element detects the strength of the magnetic field to be less than the predetermined value. In particular, as shown in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 11, the first actuating element 16 has a magnet M1, and the second actuating element 18 has a magnet M2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sensor 26 detects the strength of the magnetic field of the first magnet M1 of the first actuating element 16. The second sensor 28 detects the strength of the magnetic field of the magnet M2 of the second actuating element 18. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the position detecting element of the present application detects the strength of a magnetic field to detect the actuating positions (e.g., input positions). Likewise, the position detecting element can non-physically detect the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 (e.g., an input position of at least one actuating element). However, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 can be, for example, resistive position sensors, optical position sensors, magnetoresistive sensors, etc.Furthermore, other types of position sensing arrangements may be used as needed and / or desired. For example, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 could be electrically connected to the first and second actuators 16 and 18, respectively, using contacts or brushes and / or using wires in a conventional manner. Furthermore, the first and second sensors 26 and 28 may be tactile switches. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the position detecting element may comprise at least one of the following elements: a tactile switch, a Hall effect sensor, or a magnetoresistive sensor.

[0030] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the third sensor 30 wirelessly or non-physically detects the first and second actuators 16 and 18. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the third sensor 30 is a magnetoresistive sensor. The third sensor 30 detects positions of the first and second actuators 16 and 18 or movements of the first and second actuators 16 and 18. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the third sensor 30 is arranged to detect a vector of a magnetic field of the magnet M1. Of course, the third sensor 30 can be arranged to detect a magnet other than the magnet M1. Of course, the third sensor 30 can be another type of sensor, such as a resistive position sensor, an optical position sensor, a Hall effect sensor, or other MR sensors.In addition, other types of position detection arrangements may be used as needed and / or desired.

[0031] The simplified schematic block diagram of Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the bicycle control device including the bicycle component operating device 10. The bicycle control device includes the main microcomputer 32 mounted on a portion of a bicycle in a conventional manner. The main microcomputer 32 further includes a central processing unit (CPU) and other conventional components, such as an input interface circuit, an output interface circuit, and storage devices, such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) device and a RAM (Random Access Memory) device, as needed and / or desired. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the precise structure and algorithms for the main microcomputer 32 may be any combination of hardware and software capable of performing the functions of the recited invention.In the illustrated embodiment, the main microcomputer 32 is configured to receive signals and further process the signals to control at least one electrically actuated derailleur 34. The derailleur 34 can be either a front derailleur (may also be referred to as a front derailleur) or a rear derailleur. Since electrically actuated derailleurs are well known in the bicycle field, details of the electrically actuated derailleur 34 have been omitted for brevity.

[0032] The main microcomputer 32 is programmed to selectively shift the rear derailleur 34 in response to a manual input from a rider operating the first operating member and the second operating member 16 and 18, or to an automatic input from a control program in the main microcomputer 32. In other words, the main microcomputer 32 is configured to selectively change a gear position of the rear derailleur 34 either manually or automatically.

[0033] The bicycle control device further includes a main power supply 38 (for example, a battery or capacitor as shown) for supplying electrical power to the electrical control unit 22 of the bicycle component operating device 10, the main microcomputer 32, and the transmission 34. However, the main power supply 38 is not limited to a battery as a power source. Rather, for example, a generator by itself or a generator with a battery may be used as the main power supply 38. Likewise, various components of the bicycle control device may be provided with their own individual batteries or capacitors instead of receiving power from the main power supply 38.

[0034] Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical control unit 22 of the bicycle component operating device 10 and the rear derailleur 34 are electrically connected to the main microcomputer 32 by electrical cables that transmit control signals using signal lines S and transmit power using conductive lines GND and V. However, the main microcomputer 32 can perform two-way communication using electrical Power Line Communication (PLC) if needed and / or desired. Furthermore, wireless communication could be used to transmit control signals between the main microcomputer 32 and the electrical control unit 22 of the bicycle component operating device 10 and / or between the main microcomputer 32 and the rear derailleur 34, if needed and / or desired.

[0035] Depending on the configuration of the bicycle, the main microcomputer 32 may also receive signals from one or more additional bicycle component actuators and may therefore be further configured to control other bicycle components, such as an additional electrically actuated rear derailleur, an additional electrically adjustable damper, and an electrically adjustable seat post.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, as explained below, the first actuating element 16 has two actuating positions, each of which causes the electrical control unit 22 to generate control signals. Also, as explained further below, the second actuating element 18 has two actuating positions, each of which causes the electrical control unit 22 to generate control signals. In particular, the electrical control unit 22 generates a first control signal when the first actuating element 16 has a first actuating position ( Fig. 16) (for example, a second input position), and generates a second control signal when the second actuating element 18 reaches a second actuating position ( Fig. 18) (for example, a fourth input position). The electrical control unit 22 generates a third control signal when the first actuating element 16 reaches a first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) (for example, a first input position), and generates a fourth control signal when the second actuating element 18 reaches a second intermediate position ( Fig. 17) (for example, a third input position). In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines, based on a signal from the third sensor 30, whether the first actuating element 16 is in the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) (for example, a first input position) or the first actuation position ( Fig. 16) (for example, the second input position). In addition, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines, based on a signal from the third sensor 30, whether the second actuating element 18 is in the second intermediate position ( Fig. 17) (for example, the third input position) or the second actuation position ( Fig. 18) (for example, a fourth input position).

[0037] In particular, the illustrated embodiment also changes, as in Fig. 14 to 18, while the first actuating element 16 moves from a first rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the first operating position ( Fig. 16) via the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15), the positional relationship between the first sensor 26 and the magnet M1 on the first actuator 16. This causes a change in an output voltage Vo1 and an output voltage Vo2 of the third sensor 30, as shown in Fig. 4. The third sensor 30 detects two directions (e.g., orthogonal to each other) of the magnetic field and outputs the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2. The output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 are varied based on the strength of the magnetic field of the magnet M1. In other words, the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 are varied based on the relative position between the third sensor 30 and the magnet M1.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines the actuation positions (e.g., input positions) of the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18 based on levels of the strength of the magnetic fields. In particular, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines, based on the output signal of the first sensor 26 and the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 from the third sensor 30, whether the first actuation element 16 is in the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) (for example, a first input position) or in the first actuation position ( Fig. 16) (e.g., the second input position). When only the first actuating element 16 is moved, the first sensor 26 outputs a first signal (e.g., an H signal) and the second sensor does not output a first signal, but the second sensor 28 outputs a second signal (e.g., an L signal). When both the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 are moved, the first sensor 26 outputs a first signal (e.g., an H signal) and the second sensor 28 outputs a first signal (e.g., an H signal). The third sensor 30 does not unambiguously detect both movements of the first actuating element 16 and the second actuating element 18, but the controller 24 can determine which of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 was actuated based on the signals from the first sensor 26 and the second sensor 28.In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 determines, based on the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 from the third sensor 30, whether the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 are greater than a predetermined threshold value (for example, a threshold value T1 in . Fig. 4). In particular, the controller 24 determines an actuation direction or position of the first actuation element 16 based on the signals (the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2) from the third sensor 30 and the signals from the first sensor 26 and the second sensor 28. The controller 24 may determine the actuation direction or position of the first actuation element 16 based on the signal from the MR sensor (i.e., the third sensor 30) in a conventional manner. As in Fig. 4 then determines if the output voltage Vo1 becomes greater than the limit value T1 while the first actuating element 16 moves from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15), the control 24 that a switching switch is switched on (“ON 1” in Fig. 4) and generates the third control signal or command corresponding to a short stroke operation of the first actuating element 16. On the other hand, if the output voltage Vo2 becomes greater than the threshold value T1 while the first actuating element 16 is moving from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the first operating position ( Fig. 16), the control 24 then detects that a switching switch is switched on (“ON 2” in Fig. 4) and generates the first control signal or command corresponding to a long stroke actuation of the first actuating element 16. As a result, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 determines a number of gears to be changed.

[0039] On the other hand, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines, based on the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 and the signals from the first sensor 26 and the second sensor 28, whether the second actuating element 18 is in the second intermediate position ( Fig. 17) (for example, a third input position) or in the second actuation position ( Fig. 18) (for example, the fourth input position). In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 determines, based on the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 from the third sensor 30, whether the output voltages Vo1 and Vo2 are greater than a predetermined threshold (for example, the threshold T1 in Fig. 4). Furthermore, the controller 24 determines an actuation direction or position of the second actuation element 18 based on the signal from the third sensor 30. The controller 24 may determine the actuation direction or position of the second actuation element 18 based on the signal from the MR sensor (i.e., the third sensor 30) in a conventional manner. In the illustrated embodiment, since the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18 move together when the second actuation element 18 is moved, the controller 24 may determine the actuation direction or position of the second actuation element 18 by detecting the position of the first actuation element 16 based on the signal from the first sensor 26 or the second sensor 28. As in Fig. 4, if the output voltage Vo1 becomes greater than the limit value T1 while the second actuating element 18 moves from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the second intermediate position ( Fig. 17), the control 24 then detects that a switching switch is switched on (“ON 1” in Fig. 4), and generates the fourth control signal or command corresponding to a short stroke operation of the second actuating element 18. On the other hand, if the output voltage Vo2 becomes greater than the threshold value T1 while the second actuating element 18 is moving from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the second actuating position ( Fig. 18), the control 24 then detects that a switching switch is switched on (“ON 2” in Fig. 4), and generates the second control signal or command corresponding to a long stroke actuation of the second actuating element 18. As a result, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 determines a number of gears to be changed.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, as in Fig. 4, the controller 24 is configured to electrically adjust the actuation positions of the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18 (for example, an input position of at least one actuation element) for starting an actuation of the bicycle components (for example, at least one bicycle component). In particular, as shown in Fig. 4, the control 24 is designed to control the first and second intermediate positions ( Fig. 15 and Fig. 17) and the first and second operating positions ( Fig. 16 and Fig. 18) (for example, a plurality of input positions) of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, respectively. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 electrically adjusts the actuating position of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 by setting the predetermined limit value. In particular, as shown in Fig. 4, if the threshold value T1 is changed to a predetermined threshold value T2 which is smaller than the threshold value T1, the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 for starting an actuation of the bicycle components are then changed. In particular, as shown in Fig. 4, the timing at which the controller 24 determines that the switching switch is turned on by the short stroke operation of the first operating element 16 or the second operating element 18 is changed from the timing "ON 1" to the timing "ON 3" when the limit value T1 is changed to the limit value T2. Furthermore, the timing at which the controller 24 determines that the switching switch is turned on by the long stroke operation of the first operating element 16 or the second operating element 18 is changed from the timing "ON 2" to the timing "ON 4" when the limit value T1 is changed to the limit value T2. In other words, the angular positions of the first and second operating elements 16 and 18 corresponding to the first and second intermediate positions ( Fig. 15 and Fig. 17) or the first and second actuation positions ( Fig. 16 and Fig. 18). Since the adjustments of these operating positions of the first and second operating members 16 and 18 can be performed electrically, there is no need to provide a mechanical adjustment arrangement in the bicycle component operating device 10. Therefore, the weight of the bicycle component operating device 10 can be prevented from increasing.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, as in Fig. 4, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines the actuation positions of the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18 based on the same threshold value T1 (or T2). However, the controller 24 may determine the actuation positions of the first and second actuation elements 16 and 18 based on different threshold values, respectively. In particular, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 may determine the first and second intermediate positions based on different threshold values, such as threshold values ​​T1 and T2 (or vice versa). The controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 may determine the first and second actuation positions based on different threshold values, such as threshold values ​​T1 and T2 (or vice versa).Furthermore, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 can determine the first intermediate position and the first actuating position based on different limit values, such as the limit values ​​T1 and T2 (and vice versa). The controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 can determine the second intermediate position and the second actuating position based on different limit values, such as the limit values ​​T1 and T2 (and vice versa). In this case, the controller 24 can electrically and independently adjust the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18. Therefore, the angular positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 corresponding to the first and second intermediate positions (. Fig. 15 and Fig. 17) or the first and second operating position ( Fig. 16 and Fig. 18) can be set independently.

[0042] Referring to Fig. 2 to 7, the settings of the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 will now be further described. As in Fig. 2, the electrical control unit 22 further comprises a memory 35 and an I / F unit 36 ​​(for example, a user input). The memory 35 stores user settings of the predetermined limit value (for example, the limit value T1 or T2 in Fig. 4) as the operating positions (e.g., input positions) of the first and second operating elements 16 and 18. The memory 35 comprises a non-volatile memory and is mounted on a circuit board PC with the bicycle computer 24, the first sensor 26, the second sensor 28, and the third sensor 30. The I / F unit 36 ​​is provided to set the predetermined limit value corresponding to the operating positions (e.g., input positions) of the first and second operating elements 16 and 18. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the I / F unit 36 ​​is electrically provided between the electrical control unit 22 and the main microcomputer 32. As shown in Fig. 3, the bicycle component operating device 10 is electrically coupled to an external device, such as a computer (PC), a bicycle computer, and the like, via the I / F unit 36 ​​for setting the predetermined limit value as the operating positions (e.g., input positions) of the first and second operating members 16 and 18. The I / F unit 36, which electrically connects the bicycle component operating device 10 to a computer, is discussed in U.S. Patent Application 2013 / 0030603. Therefore, the detailed configuration of the I / F unit 36 ​​is omitted for brevity. In the illustrated embodiment, the memory 35 and the I / F unit 36 ​​are formed as part of the electrical control unit 22. However, the memory 35 and the I / F unit 36 ​​may be formed as part of the controller 24. In other words, the controller 24 may include the memory 35 and the I / F unit 36.

[0043] As in Fig. As shown in Figures 5 to 7, the preset limit is set through a graphical user interface of an application software for setting the preset limit. Specifically, the application software displays position setting displays as shown in Fig. 5 to 7, on a display of the computer or bicycle computer. The user can select a setting value (or switching amount) of the angular positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 relative to the initial angular positions by using a mouse or keyboard of the computer. Of course, this selection can be made using a touch panel display of the computer or input buttons of the bicycle computer. Fig. 5 shows a case where the first and second operating members 16 and 18 are used as a rear switch for a rear derailleur of the bicycle. Fig. Fig. 6 shows a case where the first and second operating members 16 and 18 are used as a front switch for a front derailleur of the bicycle. As shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 (for example, the first and second intermediate positions and / or the first and second actuating positions) are independently adjustable by one degree. Based on the relationship between the limit value and the angular positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, the controller 24 converts the setting values ​​determined by the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 are displayed to display setting values ​​for the predetermined limit values ​​corresponding to the adjusted actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 as shown in Fig. 4. In addition, as shown in Fig. 7, the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 (for example, the first and second intermediate positions and / or the first and second actuating positions) can be independently adjusted by an amount as needed and desired. In this case, the adjustment values ​​can be indicated by the position adjustment indicators shown in Fig. 7, for finely adjusting the actuating positions of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18. The setting values ​​can be entered via a keyboard or can be accessed by operating the graphical user interface shown in Fig. 7 shown.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, only the first sensor 26 for detecting the movement of the first operating member 16 is always turned on. On the other hand, the second sensor 28 and the third sensor 30 are selectively placed in a sleep or standby mode. With this configuration, the electrical power consumption of the bicycle component operating device 10 can be reduced. As a result, the bicycle component operating device 10 requires less frequent electrical charging and can be used for a longer period of time per charging. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the first sensor 26 is driven intermittently or continuously to detect the movement of the first operating member 16. In other words, the first sensor 26 is not placed in the sleep mode.On the other hand, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 puts the second sensor 28 into a sleep mode based on the movement of the first actuating element 16. Furthermore, the controller 24 puts the third sensor 30 into a sleep mode based on the movement of the first actuating element 16. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 puts the second sensor 28 into the sleep mode until the first sensor 26 detects the movement of the first actuating element 16. Furthermore, the controller 24 puts the third sensor 30 into the sleep mode until the first sensor 26 detects the movement of the first actuating element 16.

[0045] Specifically, in response to the movement of the first actuator 16, the first sensor 26 detects the magnet M1 on the first actuator 16, which changes the output signal of the first sensor 26. As a result, the controller 24 determines the movement of the first actuator 16 based on the output signal of the first sensor 26 as a wake-up signal to the controller 24. In response to the controller 24 determining the movement of the first actuator 16, the controller 24 terminates the sleep mode of the second sensor 28 and the third sensor 30 by sending a wake-up signal to each of the second sensor 28 and the third sensor 30 or by providing electrical power to each of the second sensor 28 and the third sensor 30.As a result, the second sensor 28 is placed in a wake mode for detecting the movement of the second actuating element 18, while the third sensor 30 is placed in a wake mode for detecting the positions and / or movements of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, as discussed above. Generally, the electrical power consumption of the MR sensor is greater than that of the Hall effect sensor. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, only one MR sensor (the third sensor 30) is used. Furthermore, the third sensor 30 is normally placed in sleep mode, which also reduces the electrical power consumption of the bicycle component actuating device 10. With only one MR sensor, the controller 24 cannot determine which of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 has been actuated.Therefore, the Hall ICs (first and second sensors 26 and 28) are used to determine which of the first and second actuators 16 and 18 has been actuated. Furthermore, the second sensor 28 is normally put into sleep mode, which also reduces the electrical power consumption of the bicycle component actuating device 10.

[0046] In the illustrated embodiment, as previously described, when the first actuating element 16 is actuated, only the first actuating element 16 moves, and the second actuating element 18 is stationary. On the other hand, when the second actuating element 18 has been actuated, the first actuating element 16 moves together with the second actuating element 18. Therefore, in response to the actuation of either the first actuating element 16 or the second actuating element 18, the output signal of the first sensor 26 changes, which puts the second and third sensors 28 and 30 into the wake-up mode. After the second and third sensors 28 and 30 have been put into the wake-up mode, the controller 24 detects the output signals of the second sensor 28. If the output signal of the first sensor 26 becomes an H signal, but the output signal of the second sensor 28 does not become an H signal (see, for example, Fig. 8), then the controller 24 determines that the first actuating element 16 is actuated. On the other hand, if the output signal of the first sensor 26 becomes an H signal and the output signal of the second sensor 28 also becomes an H signal, then the controller 24 determines that the second actuating element 18 is actuated. The timings at which the signals of the first sensor 26 and the second sensor 28 are changed from the L signal to the H signal (or from the H signal to the L signal) are determined in advance at the time of manufacture. Fig. 8, the output signal of the first sensor 26 is changed from the L signal to the H signal at the predetermined position S1 of the first actuator 16, but the predetermined position can be changed from the predetermined position S1 to a predetermined position S2 by adjusting the detection area of ​​the first sensor 26 or a threshold value of the comparator of the first sensor 26.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 determines the short stroke actuation and the long stroke actuation of each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 based on the signal from the third sensor 30. In particular, as shown in Fig. 8, the controller 24 of the electrical control unit 22 determines, based on the signal from the third sensor 30, whether the first actuating element 16 is in the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) (for example, a first input position) or in the first actuation position ( Fig. 16) (for example, the second input position) which is spaced from the first intermediate position. In particular, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the shifting effort with respect to the shift stroke has two peaks due to the click mechanism 20, which notifies a rider when the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 have been moved to actuate an electric bicycle component. In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, the predetermined limit values ​​for detecting the first and second intermediate positions ( Fig. 15 and Fig. 17) in response to the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 being actuated to move over the first tip of the Fig. 8, such that the output voltage Vo1 becomes greater than the predetermined limit. Furthermore, the predetermined limit values ​​for detecting the first and second actuation positions ( Fig. 16 and Fig. 18) in response to the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 being actuated to move over the second tip of the Fig. 8, is adjusted so that the output voltage Vo2 becomes greater than the specified limit. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, when the first actuating element 16 is actuated, the output voltage Vo1 changes according to the rotation of the first actuating element 16. On the other hand, when the first actuating element 16 is actuated, the second actuating element 18 is stationary, so that the output signal of the second sensor 28 is not changed. In Fig. 8, the first and second sensor output signals (e.g., output signals) each show output signals in binary representation with respect to the predetermined limit values. The first and second sensor output signals are used in the controller 24 as flags for determining the movement of the first and second actuators 16 and 18.

[0048] As in Fig. 8, determines if the status of the first sensor output signal changes from a low level to a high level (or “0” to “1”) (a rising edge of the first sensor output signal in Fig. 8) is changed and if the status of the second sensor output signal remains at a low level (or “0”) while the first actuating element 16 moves from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15), the controller 24 then determines, based on the signal from the third sensor, the short stroke operation of the first actuating element 16 or the long stroke operation of the first actuating element 16. In addition, if the output status of the second sensor output signal is changed from a low level to a high level (or "0" to "1") (a rising edge of the second sensor output signal) while the second actuating element 18 is moving from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) towards the intermediate position ( Fig. 17), the controller 24 then, based on the signal from the third sensor 30, determines the short stroke operation of the second operating member 18 or the long stroke operation of the second operating member 18. Here, as mentioned above, the operating directions of the first and second operating members 16 and 18 are determined based on the signal from the third sensor 30. Based on the signal from the third sensor 30, in order to exclude an influence of rattling of the first and second operating members 16 and 18, the controller 24 may prevent a control signal from being generated after the control signals are generated until the operating lever position returns to a predetermined stroke from the first and second intermediate positions or the first and second operating positions.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 24 puts the second and third sensors 28 and 30 into sleep mode, respectively, until the first sensor 26 detects movement of the first actuating element 16. However, the controller 24 may put the second and third sensors 28 and 30 into sleep mode at different times. For example, the controller 24 may put the second sensor 28 into sleep mode until the first sensor 26 detects the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) (for example, a first input position) of the first actuating element 16. In addition, the controller 24 can put the third sensor 30 into sleep mode until the first sensor 26 detects the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) (for example, the first input position) is detected. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, only the first sensor 26 is placed in wake mode. However, alternatively, all of the first, second, and third sensors 26, 28, and 30 may be normally placed in wake mode.

[0050] Referring to Fig. 9 to 19, the mechanical structure of the bicycle component actuating device 10 will now be described in detail. As in Fig. 10, the base member 14 includes a fixing member 40 configured to be fixed to the handlebar 12 of a bicycle. Consequently, the first actuating member 16 is configured to rotate about the handlebar axis A while the base member 14 is attached to the bicycle handlebar (hereinafter referred to as "handlebar") 12. Likewise, the second actuating member 18 is configured to rotate about the handlebar axis A while the base member 14 is attached to the handlebar 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing member 40 is a conventional pipe clamp that presses against the handlebar 12 by tightening a fixing bolt 42.

[0051] As in Fig. 10, the fixing element 40 of the base element 14 has a handlebar receiving opening 40a that defines a handlebar mounting axis B. The handlebar mounting axis B coincides with the handlebar axis A of the handlebar 12 when mounted to the handlebar 12. Therefore, the base element 14 is configured to be attached to the handlebar 12 by the fixing element 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the base element 14 further includes a first cover element 44, a second cover element 46, and a third cover element 48. The first and second cover elements 44 and 46 are snapped together to form a housing that partially surrounds the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18. The third cover element 48 is firmly fixed to the fixing element 40 by passing the fixing bolt 42 through an opening in the cover element 48. The third cover element 48 attaches the fixing element 40 to the first and second cover elements 44 and 46.In this manner, the first and second cover members 44 and 46 are non-rotatably secured to the handlebar 12 by the fixing member 40. The first, second, and third cover members 44, 46, and 48 are made of a suitable material, such as a hard, rigid plastic.

[0052] Further referring to Fig. 10, the base member 14 in the illustrated embodiment further includes a first support member 52 and a second support member 54. The first and second support members 52 and 54 are fixedly connected to one another by a plurality (three) of threaded connecting members 56. The first and second support members 52 and 54 are spaced apart from one another by a plurality (three) of spacers 58a, 58b, and 58c. The first and second actuating members 16 and 18 are compactly arranged between the first and second support members 52 and 54 as an integrated unit.

[0053] As in Fig. 9 to 12, the second support member 54 preferably has a tubular portion 54a that forms a handlebar receiving portion of the base member 14. The tubular portion 54a extends into an opening 52a of the first support member 52, as shown in Fig. 9. Although not shown, preferably two bearings are provided on the tubular portion 54a for rotatably supporting the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 on the tubular portion 54a. In other words, a first bearing is provided between the first actuating element 16 and the outer surface of the tubular portion 54a, and a second bearing is provided between the second actuating element 18 and the outer surface of the tubular portion 54a. As shown in Fig. 11 and Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the electrical control unit 32 is attached to the second support member 54 by a pair of screws 59. In the illustrated embodiment, the second support member 54 preferably has an arcuate opening 54b for receiving portions of the first and second actuating members 16 and 18, which include the magnets M1 and M2, respectively, therethrough. Furthermore, the second support member 54 preferably has an opening 54c for receiving a portion of the electrical control unit 32 to further support the electrical control unit 32 on the second support member 54.

[0054] Referring to Fig. 11 to 18, the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 will now be described in detail. In the illustrated embodiment, as best seen in Fig. 11, the first actuating element 16 includes a first mounting portion 60 and a first lever portion 62 (i.e., a first user actuating lever). The first mounting portion 60 of the first actuating element 16 includes a first projection 64 and a second projection 66 for cooperating with the click mechanism 20, as will be discussed later. As best shown in Fig. As seen in Figures 14 through 18, the first actuating member 16 is biased toward a first rest position by a biasing member 68 so as to return to the first rest position after being actuated to an actuating position. Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the second actuating member 18 includes a second mounting portion 70 and a second lever portion 72 (i.e., a second user actuating lever). The second actuating member 18 is biased toward a second rest position by a biasing member 76 so as to return to the second rest position after being actuated to an actuating position.

[0055] As explained above, the first actuating element 16 has two actuating positions, each of which causes the electrical control unit 22 to generate control signals. Likewise, as explained above, the second actuating element 18 also has two actuating positions, each of which causes the electrical control unit 22 to generate control signals. For example, the electrical control unit 22 generates the first control signal when the first actuating element 16 has the first actuating position ( Fig. 16), ( Fig. 18) is reached, and the second control signal when the second actuating element 18 reaches the first actuating position ( Fig. 18) and the second operating position ( Fig. 14). The electrical control unit 22 generates the third control signal when the first actuating element 16 reaches the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) and generates the fourth control signal when the second actuating element 18 reaches the second intermediate position ( Fig. 17) is reached.

[0056] In particular, the electronic control unit 22 generates the first control signal when the first actuating element 16 moves from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) to the first operating position ( Fig. 16), which corresponds to a fully actuated position. The electrical control unit 22 also generates the third control signal when the first actuating element 16 moves from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) to the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15), which corresponds to a partial operating position between the first rest position ( Fig. 14) and the first operating position ( Fig. 16). In particular, the first actuating element 16 is moved from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) is rotated by a predetermined distance D1 to reach the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) and from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) is rotated by a second predetermined distance D2 to reach the first actuating position ( Fig. 16).

[0057] In particular, the electrical control unit 22 generates the second control signal when the second actuating element 18 moves from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) to the second operating position ( Fig. 18), which corresponds to a fully actuated position. The electrical control unit 22 also generates the fourth control signal when the second actuating element 18 moves from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) to the second intermediate position ( Fig. 17), which corresponds to a partial operating position between the second rest position ( Fig. 14) and the second operating position ( Fig. 18) rotates.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, since both the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 utilize the click mechanism 20 to notify the driver when the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 have reached the actuating position, which causes the electrical control unit 22 to generate control signals, the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 are moved by the same amount to reach the actuating positions. In particular, the second actuating element 18 is moved from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) is rotated by the first predetermined distance D1 to reach its second operating position ( Fig. 17) and from the second rest position ( Fig. 14) is rotated by the second predetermined distance D2 to reach its second actuating position ( Fig. 18).

[0059] As in Fig. 14 to 18, the first actuating member 16 and the second actuating member 18 are rotatably supported on the tubular portion 54a of the base member 14 for rotation about the handlebar mounting axis B. As a result, the first actuating member 16 is configured to rotate about the handlebar axis A and the handlebar mounting axis B between the first rest position and a first actuating position while the base member 14 is attached to the handlebar 12. Similarly, the second actuating member 18 is configured to rotate about the handlebar axis A between a second rest position and a second actuating position while the base member 14 is attached to the handlebar 12.

[0060] Referring to Fig. 14 to 18, in the illustrated embodiment, the first actuating element 16 and the second actuating element 18 are each moved from the first rest position ( Fig. 14) and the second rest position ( Fig. 14) is rotated in an actuating direction (i.e., a first direction of rotation R) which is the same with respect to the handlebar axis A. As shown in Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, the first actuating element 16 moves (i.e. rotates) with respect to the base element 14 about the handlebar axis A, while the second actuating element 18 remains stationary when the first actuating element 16 is actuated. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 17 and Fig. 18, the first actuating element 16 and the second actuating element 18 move together with respect to the base element 14 about the handlebar axis A when the second actuating element 18 is actuated.

[0061] The electrical control unit 22 is actuated by a movement of each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, which move from the rest position toward their actuating positions, respectively. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical control unit 22 generates shift signals as the first and third control signals in accordance with the movements of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, which move from their rest positions toward their actuating positions. The first control signals are used as one of an upshift signal and a downshift signal. The third control signals are used as the other of the upshift signal and the downshift signal. As previously described, the first and third control signals are generated simultaneously when the second actuating element 18 is actuated.The main microcomputer 33 is programmed such that the main microcomputer 33 ignores the first control signal in such a situation.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical control unit 22 generates the first switching signal when the first actuating element 16 reaches the first actuating position ( Fig. 16). Likewise, the electrical control unit 22 generates the second switching signal when the second actuating element 18 reaches the second actuating position ( Fig. 18). The electrical control unit 22 also generates the third switching signal when the first actuating element 16 reaches the first intermediate position ( Fig. 15) between the first rest position ( Fig. 14) and the first operating position ( Fig. 16). Finally, the electrical control unit 22 generates the fourth switching signal when the second actuating element 18 reaches the second intermediate position ( Fig. 17) between the second rest position ( Fig. 14) and the second operating position ( Fig. 18) is reached.

[0063] In one embodiment, the electrical control unit 22 generates one of an upshift signal or a downshift signal when the first actuating element 16 is actuated in the first rotational direction R by the first movement amount D1, and generates the other of the upshift signal or the downshift signal when the first actuating element 16 is actuated in the first rotational direction R by the second movement amount D2. In this manner, the first actuating element 16 can actuate the switching mechanism 34 for both upshifting and downshifting. In the illustrated embodiment, the first movement amount D1 is smaller than the second movement amount D2. Therefore, the second movement amount D2 is different from the first movement amount D1 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0064] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the electrical control unit 22 and / or the main microcomputer 32 may be selectively programmed such that the first actuating member 16 can actuate two separate electrical switching devices (e.g., a front derailleur and a rear derailleur). For example, the electrical control unit 22 generates one of an upshift signal or a downshift signal when the first actuating member 16 is moved the first amount of movement D1 to actuate a first electrical switching device, and generates the other of the upshift signal and the downshift signal when the first actuating member 16 is moved the second amount of movement D2 to actuate a second electrical switching device.Likewise, the electrical control unit 22 also generates one of an upshift signal and a downshift signal when the second actuating element 18 is actuated in the first direction of movement R by the first amount of movement D1. When the second actuating element 18 is actuated in the first rotational direction R by the second amount of movement D2, the electrical control unit 22 and / or the main microcomputer 32 can be selectively programmed such that the electrical control unit 22 generates either the other of the upshift and downshift signals or generates a second of the upshift and downshift signals.Furthermore, the electrical control unit 22 and / or the main microcomputer 32 may be selectively programmed such that the electrical control unit 22 generates one of the upshift signal and the downshift signal when the first operating element 16 is operated, and generates the other of the upshift signal and the downshift signal when the second operating element 18 is operated. In this manner, each of the first and second operating elements 16 and 18 can perform a single shift operation by being operated by the first movement amount D1 and a double shift operation by being operated by the second movement amount D2.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the first mounting part 60 is rotatably supported on the base member 14 about the handlebar axis A. The first lever part 62 projects outwardly from the first mounting part 60. Preferably, the first actuating member 16 is a trigger actuating lever that is biased by the biasing member 68 toward the rest position of the first actuating member 16 with respect to the base member 14. Here, the biasing member 68 is a coil spring having a first end 68a attached to the first actuating member 16 and a second end 68b attached to the spacer 58a. Therefore, when the first actuating member 16 is moved from the rest position ( Fig. 14) to the actuated position ( Fig. 15 or Fig. 16), the biasing element 68 is stretched to exert a biasing force on the first actuating element 16. Preferably, the biasing element 68 is prestressed (i.e., slightly stretched) while the first actuating element 16 is in the rest position ( Fig. 14).

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the second mounting part 70 is supported on the base member 14 for rotation about the handlebar axis A. The second lever part 72 projects outwardly from the second mounting part 70. Preferably, the second actuating element 18 is a trigger actuating lever that is biased by the biasing element 76 with respect to the base member 14 toward the rest position of the second actuating element 18. Here, the biasing element 76 is a coil compression spring having a first end 76a abutting against the second actuating element 18 and a second end 76b abutting against the spacer 58b. Therefore, when the second actuating element 18 is moved from the rest position ( Fig. 14) to an operating position ( Fig. 17 or Fig. 18) is moved, the biasing element 76 is compressed so as to exert a biasing force on the second actuating element 18. Preferably, the biasing element 76 is preloaded (i.e. slightly compressed), while the actuating element 18 is in the rest position ( Fig. 14).

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the first lever part 62 and the second lever part 72 are offset from each other in a rotational direction of the first mounting part 60 and the second mounting part 70. Likewise, the first lever part 62 and the second lever part 72 are at least partially offset from each other in a radial direction of the first mounting part 60 and the second mounting part 70 in the illustrated embodiment. The first lever part 62 and the second lever part 72 have different shapes and different sizes. The first lever part 62 of the first actuating element 16 has a first user actuating surface 62a and a non-user actuating surface 62b. The user actuating surface 62a is actuated by a user when the first actuating element 16 is actuated. The non-user actuating surface 62b is arranged so as to be non-contactable when the first actuating element 16 is actuated.Likewise, the second lever part 72 of the second actuating element 18 has a user actuating surface 72a and a non-user actuating surface 72b. The user actuating surface 72a is actuated by a user when the second actuating element 18 is actuated. The non-user actuating surface 72b is arranged in a non-contact manner when the second actuating element 18 is actuated.

[0068] Referring to the Fig. 13, Fig. 14 and Fig. 19, the click mechanism 20 will now be described in more detail. In the illustrated embodiment, as best seen in Fig. 13 and Fig.14, the click mechanism 20 includes a first piece 80 that contacts at least one of the first actuating element 16 and the second actuating element 18 to produce haptic feedback as each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from the rest position toward the actuated position. In the illustrated embodiment, the first piece 80 is contacted only by the first and second projections 64 and 66 of the first actuating element 16 because actuation of the second actuating element 18 moves the first actuating element 16 into contact with the first piece 80. If the second actuating element 18 were configured to be actuated independently of the first actuating element 16, then the second actuating element 18 would be provided with projections similar to the first and second projections 64 and 66 for contacting the first piece 80.Therefore, the click mechanism 20 of the illustrated embodiment can be used with a bicycle component actuating device having independently operable actuating elements such that the actuating elements all use the same click mechanism.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the click mechanism 20 further includes a second part 82 pivotally mounted about a first pivot axis P1 to the second support member 54 of the second base member 14. The first part 80 is pivotally mounted to the second part 82 about a second pivot axis P2. In particular, a first pivot pin 84 is fixedly attached to the second support member 54. The first pivot pin 84 defines the first pivot axis P1. The second part 82 is pivotally mounted to the first pivot pin 84. A first biasing member 86 is operatively provided between the second part 82 and the second support member 54. A second pivot pin 88 is pivotally attached to the second part 82. The second pivot pin 88 defines the second pivot axis P2. A second biasing member 90 is operatively provided between the first part 80 and the second part 82.

[0070] The second biasing member 90 exerts a biasing force on the first member 80 to maintain the first member 80 in a predetermined orientation normal with respect to the second member 82 such that the supports of the first member 80 and the second member 82 abut against each other. As a result, the first member 80 only moves relative to the second member 82 when the first and second projections 64 and 66 contact the first member 80 as the first actuating member 16 moves from one of the actuating positions toward the rest position. In the illustrated embodiment, the second biasing member 90 is a torsion spring having a coiled portion provided on the second pivot pin 88. One end of the second biasing member 90 contacts the first member 80, while the other end of the second biasing member 90 contacts the second member 82.

[0071] The first biasing member 86 exerts a biasing force on the second member 82 to bias the second member 82 such that the first member 80 normally contacts the first actuating member 16. In other words, the first biasing member 86 biases the first member 80 into engagement with the first actuating member 16 while the first actuating member 16 is in the first rest position. As a result of this arrangement of the first and second members 80 and 82, the first and second members 80 and 82 move together as a unit when the first and second projections 64 and 66 contact the first member 80 as the first actuating member 16 moves from the rest position toward one of the actuating positions. In the illustrated embodiment, the first biasing member 86 is a torsion spring having a coiled portion provided on the first pivot pin 84.One end of the first biasing member 86 contacts the second part 82, while the other end of the first biasing member 86 contacts the second support member 54.

[0072] Accordingly, during actuation of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, the first part 80 rotates about the first pivot axis P1 as each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from the rest position toward one of the actuating positions. In particular, the first part 80 contacts one or both of the first and second projections 64 and 66 of the first actuating element 16 as each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from the rest position toward the actuating position. The first part 80 remains stationary with respect to the second part 82 as the first part 80 and the second part 82 pivot together about the first pivot axis P1 as each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from the rest position toward the actuating position.

[0073] On the other hand, during the release of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18, the first part 80 pivots about the second pivot axis P2, which is offset from the first pivot axis P1, as each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from one of the actuating positions toward the rest position. As a result, the first part 80 moves with respect to the second part 82 about the second pivot axis P2 as each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from one of the actuating positions toward the rest position.

[0074] As mentioned above, the first actuating member 16 includes the first protrusion 64 and the second protrusion 66. However, alternatively, the first actuating member 16 may have at least one protrusion, or the first actuating member 16 may have more than two protrusions. In either case, the number of protrusions will indicate the number of actuating positions that can be assumed with the switch actuating device. The first and second protrusions 64 and 66 contact the first part 80 and rotate the first part 80 about the first pivot axis P1 as each of the first and second actuating members 16 and 18 moves from the rest position toward the actuating position.The first and second protrusions 64 and 66 also contact the first part 80 and pivot the first part 80 about the second pivot axis P2 when each of the first and second actuating elements 16 and 18 moves from the actuated position toward the rest position. The first protrusion 64 has a first height, and the second protrusion 66 has a second height. The first and second heights of the first and second protrusions 64 and 66 differ from each other. The first protrusion 64 is closer to the first part 80 than the second protrusion 66 when the first actuating element 16 is in the rest position. The first height of the first protrusion 64 is smaller than the second height of the second protrusion 66. By providing different heights for the first and second protrusions 64 and 66, the user can better distinguish between the two actuated positions.

[0075] For the purpose of understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprise" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended as open-ended terms that specify the presence of recited features, elements, components, groups, counters, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other unrecited features, elements, components, groups, counters, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "comprise," "have," and their derivatives.The term "attached" or "attach" as used herein indicates configurations in which one element is directly secured to the other by fastening the element; configurations in which the element is directly secured to the other element by fastening the element to intermediate element(s) that are in turn fastened to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with the other element, that is, one element is an essential part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, "attached," "connected," "coupled," "attached," "glued," "fixed," and their derivatives.

[0076] Likewise, the terms "part," "portion," "portion," "portion," "part," or "element," when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of one or more parts. Likewise, it is understood that while the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe different components, these components are not intended to be limited to these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Therefore, for example, a first component discussed above could be called a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention. Finally, terms of degree, such as in "substantially," "approximately," and "about," as used herein, connote a degree of departure from the modified term such that the end result is not significantly altered.

Claims

[1] Bicycle component actuation device (10), comprising at least one actuation element (16, 18) which is movably supported on a base element (14) such that the actuation element (16, 18) can be moved from a rest position to an input position, and a controller (24) with a memory (35), wherein the controller (24) is designed to electrically adjust the input position of the at least one actuation element (16, 18) for starting an actuation of at least one bicycle component, wherein the controller (24) is designed to electrically adjust the input position according to a user setting which is stored in the memory (35). [2] Bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 1, further comprising a position detection element configured to detect the input position of the at least one actuating element (16, 18). [3] Bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 2, wherein the position detecting element comprises at least one of a tactile switch, a Hall effect sensor, and a magnetoresistive sensor. [4] The bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 2, wherein the position detecting element non-physically detects the input position. [5] The bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the position detecting element detects a strength of a magnetic field to detect the input position. [6] The bicycle component operating device (10) of claim 5, wherein the controller (24) determines the input position based on a level of strength of the magnetic field. [7] The bicycle component operating device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the controller (24) includes a user input to set a threshold value (T1, T2) corresponding to the input position. [8] Bicycle component actuating device (10) according to one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the position detecting element comprises a first sensor (26) which detects a first actuating element (16) of the at least one actuating element, and a second sensor (28) which detects a second actuating element (18) of the at least one actuating element. [9] Bicycle component actuation device (10) according to claim 8, wherein the first and second sensors (26, 28) are Hall effect sensors. [10] The bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the position detecting element further comprises a third sensor (30) that detects the first and second operating elements (16, 18). [11] The bicycle component actuating device (10) of claim 10, wherein the first and second sensors (26, 28) are Hall effect sensors and the third sensor (30) is a magnetoresistive sensor. [12] Bicycle component actuating device (10) according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the controller (24) puts the second sensor (28) and / or the third sensor (30) into a sleep mode based on a movement of the first actuating element (16). [13] Bicycle component operating device (10) according to one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the second operating element (18) moves the first operating element (16) when the second operating element (18) is moved. [14] Bicycle component actuating device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the controller (24) is designed to electrically adjust a plurality of the input positions of the at least one actuating element (16, 18). [15] The bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 14, wherein the controller (24) determines whether the first operating element (16) is in a first input position or in a second input position based on a signal from the third sensor (30). [16] The bicycle component operating device (10) of claim 15, wherein the controller (24) determines whether the second operating member (18) is in a third input position or in a fourth input position based on a signal from the third sensor (30). [17] Bicycle component actuating device (10) according to one of claims 7 to 16, wherein the limit value (T1, T2) is set by a user input. [18] Bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 17, wherein the limit value (T1, T2) is a voltage value. [19] Bicycle component operating device (10) according to claim 18, wherein the controller (24) determines whether an output voltage of the first, second and / or third sensor (26, 28, 30) is greater than the threshold value (T1, T2).

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