Display device for showing various states of a bicycle

A compact, sliding-mount display device on the handlebar uses color-coded LEDs and intuitive lighting patterns to efficiently convey bicycle states, addressing the clutter and visibility issues of existing devices, ensuring clear and user-friendly operation.

DE102024103614B4Active Publication Date: 2026-04-23TQ SYST GMBH
View PDF 11 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
TQ SYST GMBH
Filing Date
2024-02-08
Publication Date
2026-04-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing bicycle display devices are cumbersome, visually cluttered, and lack intuitive and efficient means to convey multiple operating states and statuses, particularly on handlebars, complicating user interaction and visibility.

Method used

A compact, sliding-mount display device with a lighting system that integrates seamlessly onto the handlebar, using color-coded LEDs and intuitive lighting patterns to indicate various bicycle states, including operating modes, gear positions, and battery charge, with a user-friendly input mechanism.

Benefits of technology

Provides clear, aerodynamic, and visually appealing display of bicycle states, enhancing user interaction and visibility under diverse lighting conditions, while maintaining a clean handlebar appearance and allowing easy mounting and detachment.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
    Figure 00000000_0000_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present invention relates to a display device (1) for displaying various states, in particular various operating modes, of a bicycle, wherein the display device (1) comprises a mounting section (10), a display section (14) and a communication interface (15), wherein the mounting section (10) is configured to attach the display device (1) to a distal section (22) of a handlebar (20), wherein the communication interface (15) is configured to receive the various states of the bicycle, wherein the display section (14) comprises a light device (2) which is configured to display the various received states, and wherein the display device (1) can be mounted on the handlebar (20) by a relative sliding of the mounting section (10) and the distal section (22) of the handlebar (20).Furthermore, the present invention relates to a handlebar (20) with such a display device (1), to a display system with such a display device (1), to a bicycle with such a handlebar (20) and / or such a display device (1), and to a method for displaying various states of a bicycle by means of such a display device (1).
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a display device for showing various states of a bicycle. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a bicycle handlebar, a display system, and a bicycle, as well as to a method for showing various states of a bicycle. State of the art

[0002] Bicycle computers capable of displaying a bicycle's status, such as speed, are known in the prior art. Bicycle computers capable of displaying the operating mode of a bicycle's electric motor are also known. For this purpose, a screen is mounted, for example, on the outside of the bicycle's handlebars (also called bicycle handlebars) or frame. The screen is attached to the handlebars, for example, with a clamp. DE 10 2018 211 727 A1 discloses a display device for handlebars with a projection unit. DE 10 2019 004 154 A1 discloses an integrated bicycle control device with a handlebar section of a bicycle handlebar assembly. DE 10 2016 010 801 A1 discloses a control device for a bicycle that is mounted or can be mounted on the bicycle's handlebars.From EP 1 582 452 B1, an electric bicycle shifting device is known, comprising a handlebar mounting section and an electric shift control switch section. From DE 20 2012 008 121 U1, a bicycle grip with a grip element that can be attached to a bicycle handlebar is known, wherein switches for controlling an electric assist motor are arranged in the grip element. From AT 522 195 A1, a transmitter device for use in connection with a handlebar of a vehicle is known. From CN 1 04 781 135 A, a flashing light for a bicycle, which can be permanently or detachably attached to the end of a bicycle handlebar, is known. From CN 1 04 176 185 A, a bicycle grip with a lighting function is known. Description of the invention

[0003] A first aspect concerns a display device for showing various states, in particular different operating modes, of a bicycle. The bicycle may be, for example, a mountain bike, touring bike, or racing bike. The bicycle may have an electric motor, in particular to assist the rider's muscle power. The bicycle may, for example, be a pedelec. The bicycle may have gears, a braking system, and / or a suspension system. The display device may be a device designed to show the various states. A state may be an operating mode of the bicycle, for example, an operating state of the electric motor. For example, the bicycle and / or the electric motor may have a sport mode, an eco mode, a tour mode, a turbo mode, and / or another mode.Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle and / or the electric motor can have an Eco mode, a Mid mode, a High mode, and / or another mode. An operating mode can differ from another operating mode, for example, in terms of support level, speed, acceleration, and / or other characteristics. Additionally or alternatively, the status can also include a status of the gear system, the braking system, and / or the suspension system. For example, the status can include a selected gear, a shifting mode, a braking force, a suspension mode, a suspension length, and / or a spring force. A status can have multiple sub-states, for example, from different systems. The sub-states can be displayed together. For example, the status can include an operating mode of the electric motor and the charge level of a battery powering the electric motor.

[0004] The display device comprises a mounting section, a display section, and a communication interface. The display device may have a substantially cylindrical basic shape. It may also have a substantially cuboid, pyramidal, spherical, or other basic shape, such as a circular cross-section and a curved longitudinal extent. The display device may have a longitudinal axis that extends, for example, through the mounting section and the display section.

[0005] The mounting section is designed to attach the display device to a distal section of a handlebar. The handlebar may, for example, be a substantially straight tube. For ergonomic reasons, the two sides of the handlebar may also be curved relative to each other. The mounting section may have a longitudinal axis that, when mounted, may be coaxial with an axis of the distal section of the handlebar. The longitudinal axis of the mounting section may coincide with the longitudinal axis of the display device. The distal section of the handlebar may include an end of the handlebar, for example, an end that has a grip. The distal section may have a substantially circular end of the handlebar. The distal section may have an end face of a substantially cylindrical element and / or section of the handlebar.The distal section may have a recess for receiving at least a portion of the mounting section. For example, the distal section may be formed by an open end of a handlebar. The distal end of the handlebar may be, for example, the left or right end of a bicycle handlebar. The mounting section may be arranged on a proximal section of the display device. Proximal here may be closer to where the handlebar attaches to the rest of the bicycle, for example, in the direction towards a stem. Distal, on the other hand, may be further away from the rest of the bicycle, for example, in the direction away from a stem. Thus, the proximal section may be located closer to the center of the bicycle than a distal section. The mounting section may have a substantially cylindrical shape.The mounting section can also have a substantially cuboid, pyramidal, spherical, or other basic shape. The mounting section can have a basic shape that corresponds to a shape of the distal section of the handlebar, for example, a recess for receiving the mounting section. For example, the distal section can have the basic shape of a hollow cylinder, and the mounting section the basic shape of a corresponding cylinder. The mounting section can be made of a metal, a plastic, a ceramic material, and / or a combination thereof. The mounting section can, for example, be clamped to the distal section of the handlebar.

[0006] The communication interface is designed to receive the various states of the bicycle. It can receive these states via cable and / or wirelessly. For example, the communication interface can have at least one connector through which it can receive data, signals, and / or power. The data and / or signals can contain information about speed, torque, power, operating mode, charge level, position, and / or other information. The communication interface can also be configured to receive data via Bluetooth and / or ANT+. The display device can, for example, communicate with and / or be paired with a user's smartphone via the communication interface.The display device can communicate with and / or be coupled to a control device and / or sensor on the bicycle via the communication interface, for example, with a motor controller and / or a battery management system. The communication interface can be designed to receive power wirelessly, for example, inductively. The communication interface can have standardized connectors. For example, the communication interface can have USB, RJ45, or other connectors. The communication interface can also have non-standardized connectors. The communication interface can have male, female, or both male and female connectors. The connectors can be designed for additional securing of the display device, for example, by a clamp and / or a bayonet-type connection.The communication interface can be located at an end section of the display device. For example, the communication interface can be located on the rear side of the display device. The communication interface can be located on or within the display section. For example, individual connectors can protrude distally from the display section, and other electronic components of the communication interface can be located within the display section. The communication interface can also be located between the mounting sections, for example, radially between mounting elements of the mounting section. The communication interface can be located on the mounting section.

[0007] The display section includes a lighting device designed to indicate the various received states. The display section may be arranged on a section opposite the mounting section. The display section may have a cylindrical shape. The display section may also have a substantially cuboid, pyramidal, spherical, or other shape. The display section may be arranged on a distal section of the display device, with the distal section being opposite a proximal section. The display section is designed to project at least partially from the distal section of the handlebar, in particular from a recess in the handlebar for receiving the mounting section. The lighting device may include one or more lights, for example, several lights spaced evenly apart.The display device can, for example, have five lights. Alternatively, the display device can have fewer or more lights. The lighting device can include mirrors, optical fibers, lenses, and / or other means to refract, reflect, diffract, and / or otherwise direct and / or modify light. The lights can be LEDs. The lighting device can, for example, have several LEDs, which can be of different or the same color. Several LEDs with different colors can be used together to indicate different colors and / or states. Some or all of the lights or LEDs can be configured to emit different colors. For example, a green color can indicate Eco mode, a blue color Mid mode, and / or a red color High mode. For example, an on or off state can be indicated by the on or off state.The indicator lights will be switched off. The display section can show multiple states simultaneously. For example, the display section can show a charge level and an operating mode at the same time. For example, all lights can be illuminated in a specific color to indicate the operating mode. The number of lights illuminated can then indicate a charge level. The display section can also show other states simultaneously. The display section can also show more than two states at the same time. The lighting device can be powered by the bicycle's dynamo. Additionally or alternatively, the lighting device can also be powered by a battery or accumulator, such as a lithium-ion battery. For example, the power supply for the bicycle's electric motor can also power the lighting device.

[0008] The display device can be mounted to the handlebars by sliding the mounting section and the distal section of the handlebars together. For example, the display device can be inserted or slid along the longitudinal length of the distal section into and / or onto the distal section of the handlebars. This sliding action secures the display device to the distal section of the handlebars. Additional fixing can be achieved, for example, with a screw, adhesive, a snap-fit ​​connection, and / or the communication interface connectors. When mounted, the display device can be visible to a user, such as the rider, especially when the user or rider is seated on the bicycle. For example, at least some of the lights can protrude from the handlebars or at least be unobstructed when mounted.The display section is designed to protrude from the distal section of the handlebar. The display section can also be located within the distal section of the handlebar. In the assembled state, the display section can be substantially flush with an outer surface of the distal section of the handlebar. The relative interlocking can involve a relative displacement in which one part engages with or is pushed into the other. In particular, a relative interlocking can involve a coaxial displacement along a longitudinal axis or an insertion axis. An insertion axis can correspond to a longitudinal axis of the display device or the mounting section. For example, the mounting section can be arranged coaxially with the distal section of the handlebar and be displaced along a common longitudinal axis or insertion axis for assembly.A sliding motion can also involve non-coaxial displacement.

[0009] During a sliding assembly, the fastening section can contact an inner surface of the distal section of the handlebar and, for example, engage or form an interference fit. For instance, the fastening section can have a cylindrical shape that is clamped into the distal end of the handlebar, which is essentially a hollow cylinder. Alternatively, during a sliding assembly, the fastening section can also contact an outer surface of the distal section of the handlebar and, for example, engage or form an interference fit. For instance, the fastening section can essentially have a hollow cylinder shape and engage with an outer surface of the distal section of the handlebar.In a sliding fit, the fastening section can contact both an inner and an outer surface of the distal section of the handlebar, for example, by engaging or forming an interference fit. For instance, the fastening section can form an arc-shaped, particularly circular, groove into which a section of the handlebar tube is inserted. In a relative sliding fit, the fastening section can also make contact with the distal section of the handlebar in other ways. A relative sliding fit can also involve rotation around an axis or other movements.

[0010] The display unit is compact and easy to mount. Its sliding design allows for seamless integration into the bicycle. This enables the user to easily view various bicycle statuses. Furthermore, the display unit can be securely mounted in the distal section of the handlebars. A protected wired connection to other bicycle systems is also easily achieved. This allows the bicycle cockpit to remain free of externally visible cables for the display unit, resulting in a very clean and uncluttered appearance.

[0011] The display device may include a brightness sensor. The brightness sensor may be configured to detect ambient brightness. The brightness sensor may further be configured to transmit the detected ambient brightness to the light source or to a control device. For example, this can be done via the communication interface. The display device may be configured to adjust the brightness of the light source depending on the measured ambient brightness. Adjusting the brightness of the light source may involve adjusting the luminous intensity of the light source. For example, the light source may adjust its brightness to a high level when high ambient brightness is measured. The light source may also be configured to adjust its brightness to a low level when low ambient brightness is measured.This allows the driver to easily recognize the displayed status even under different lighting conditions.

[0012] By placing a display device on the distal part of the handlebars, a rider can easily assess the bicycle's status. Such an arrangement allows for a particularly compact, aerodynamic, and / or visually appealing design of the display device. For example, the display device can protrude very little, or even not at all, from the handlebars, thus minimizing its impact on airflow. This arrangement can also be visually appealing to the user, as it does not, or only minimally, affect the geometric design of the handlebars. Furthermore, providing a light makes it very easy for the rider to assess the bicycle's status, as it is easily and / or clearly visible.The lighting device can enable the status to be detected even at night, in fog, and / or in other situations with impaired visibility, and provides a visually appealing display.

[0013] In one embodiment, the mounting section forms a first end section of the display device, and the display section forms an opposite end section of the display device. For example, the display section and the mounting section can form opposite ends of the cylindrical base of the display device. An end section can be a section located at one end of the display device. For example, the display device can have a cylindrical base, and an end section can have a front or rear face of the cylindrical base. An end section can also have an adjacent section. The cylindrical base can have a longitudinal axis which, for example, coincides with a longitudinal axis of the distal section of the handlebar when mounted. The display section can be arranged perpendicular and / or coaxial to this longitudinal axis.The display section can also be angled to this longitudinal axis. The display section can have essentially the same diameter as the distal section of the handlebar. In the mounted state, the display section can be adjacent to and / or flush with the distal section of the handlebar. The mounting section can have a larger or smaller diameter than the distal section of the handlebar. The basic shape of the mounting section can essentially correspond to a shape of the distal section, for example, a cylindrical shape that fits into a hollow cylinder of the distal section of the handlebar. The mounting section can have a different diameter and / or thickness than the display section. The described arrangement allows a display section to be positioned particularly far from the mounting section, thus providing greater visibility for the user.Drivers should be given the best possible view of the display section, as it can protrude particularly far.

[0014] In one embodiment, the lighting device is configured to indicate at least one first state of the bicycle with a first color and a second state of the bicycle with a second color. The first and second colors can be different. For example, red, green, blue, and / or white can be selected as colors. Each color can correspond to one state. The color can be represented by a light source of the lighting device, in particular by an LED. For example, red can be represented by a red LED, blue by a blue LED, green by a green LED, and white by a white LED. Additionally or alternatively, the colors can also be represented by a combination of several LEDs. For example, white can be represented by a combination of a red, a green, and a blue LED.The lights of the lighting device can illuminate simultaneously with the same color or with different colors, for example, to display a status code such as an error code. In this way, a wide variety of information can be displayed using simple means.

[0015] The lighting device can also indicate a status by flashing the lights, either additionally or alternatively. For example, a specific flashing pattern can correspond to a specific status. Additionally or alternatively, a specific flashing sequence can correspond to a specific status. Additionally or alternatively, brightness or a brightness gradient can also correspond to a specific status. The lighting device can be configured to indicate system activity by a solid white light. The lighting device can be configured to indicate system inactivity by turning off the lights. The lighting device can be configured to indicate a battery charge level by using multiple lights, with the percentage of illuminated lights corresponding to the charge level. For example, a charge level of 80% can be indicated by four out of five lights being illuminated.The number of lights that are switched on can be rounded up; for example, at a charge level of 81%, five out of five lights can be illuminated. The number can also be rounded down.

[0016] The indicator light can be configured to display the charge level during charging and / or discharging. The indicator light can be configured to flash red when a fault occurs or is detected. The indicator light can be configured to illuminate only one of several lights if the charge level is 10% or less. When the indicator light is switched on, the indicator light can be configured to display a pattern resembling breathing, such as a rhythmic brightening and dimming. The indicator light can be white during this process. When the indicator light is switched off, the indicator light can be configured to display a flashing pattern resembling a countdown, such as successively switching off each light until all are off. The indicator light can be white during this process.The light device can be configured to indicate an incoming pairing request from the user's smartphone, for example by lighting up with a light blue color.

[0017] Using color to indicate the bicycle's status makes it very easy for the rider to understand its condition. The different colors are particularly easy to distinguish, allowing the rider to quickly, easily, and reliably determine the current status. The different colors can also provide a visually appealing display. The number of activated and deactivated lights is also very quick and easy for the user to see.

[0018] In one embodiment, the lighting device is arranged along an outer circumference of the display section. The outer circumference of the display section can be the circumference of a substantially round and / or cylindrical section of the display section. The outer circumference can be a lateral surface, for example, relative to the longitudinal axis of the display section and / or to an insertion axis for attaching the display device to the handlebar. In another embodiment, the lighting device has several lights. The lights can be arranged along the outer circumference of the display section. In particular, the lights can be arranged at regular intervals along the outer circumference. The lights can be arranged along a section of the outer circumference or along the entire circumference.For example, the lighting device can have five indicator lights arranged at regular intervals along approximately one-fifth of its outer circumference. The lights can be positioned so that they are visible from the front and the side. For example, the section of the outer circumference on which the lights are arranged can be angled upwards towards the rider when the bicycle is upright. The indicator section can also be cylindrical, with the lights arranged along the edge between the cylindrical surface and the front face of the cylindrical section. The front face can be an end face of the indicator section, extending, for example, radially to the longitudinal axis of the indicator section.The lights can, for example, have a section on the front and a section on the outer surface, and thus be visible from both the front and the side. The lights can be arranged around a longitudinal axis of the display device, or at equal distances from it. The lights can also be positioned elsewhere, for example, on the front of the display section.

[0019] By positioning the light device along the outer perimeter of the display area, it can be very easy for the rider to assess the bicycle's condition. Providing multiple lights can also make it easier for the rider to assess the bicycle's condition, as several lights may be easier to detect than a single light.

[0020] In one embodiment, the display device includes an input device for capturing user input. The input device can be configured to capture user input mechanically, electrically, electronically, magnetically, and / or by other means. For example, the input device can capture user input by pressing an element into it. Additionally or alternatively, the input device can also detect pressure exerted by the rider using a pressure sensor and / or a touch-sensitive surface. The input device can be configured to transmit the user input to a control device. The control device can be part of the display device and / or part of the bicycle. For example, the means for capturing the user input can be a switch. The input device can include a button, which can be round, for example.The button can also be rectangular, square, and / or have another shape.

[0021] The input device can also include a touchscreen configured to detect user input in the form of a touch or pressure. The touchscreen can also provide the lighting device. For example, the touchscreen can display a status and be configured to detect user input. The touchscreen can be round, rectangular, and / or another shape. The user input can control switching the device on and / or off. However, the lighting device can also be without any means of detecting user input.

[0022] User input can control a change in the bicycle's state, such as switching from one mode to another. User input can also control a display, for example, turning the lights on or off. User input can also control adjustments to the display, such as brightness, color, and / or other settings. The input device can be configured to capture user input to confirm and / or reject a pairing request from the smartphone or to activate a pairing mode. The display device can have a stealth mode. In stealth mode, the status is displayed only after a change in state, for example, briefly for a predetermined period.In stealth mode, the light can also be set to illuminate for only a specific time after user input is detected. For example, the light can be set to illuminate for only 10 seconds after user input is detected and then remain switched off, or to be reactivated only after a change in state, for example, for a predetermined duration.

[0023] Providing an input device enables additional functions for the display device. For example, the driver can use the input device to control the display to show desired information and / or to select a desired mode. Designing the input device as a button provides the driver with a tactile feedback, increasing their confidence that their input has been registered. Such a tactile feedback can also be perceived as particularly pleasant and / or as indicating a high-quality product. Designing the input device as a touchscreen allows for a visually appealing display and a smaller number of components.

[0024] In one embodiment, the mounting section has at least one contact element by which it is held to the distal section of the handlebar. The contact element can be configured to engage with and / or bear against the distal section of the handlebar to hold the mounting section in place. The mounting section can hold the display device to the distal section or connect it to the handlebar by friction or clamping, particularly through the contact element. The mounting section can also connect the display device to the handlebar by means of an adhesive, screws, rivets, magnets, and / or other fastening methods, particularly through the contact element. The contact element can be configured to engage with and / or bear against the distal section of the handlebar on its inner surface to provide a fastening point.The attachment element can also be designed to engage and / or bear against the distal section of the handlebar on its outer radial side to provide a fastening. Alternatively or additionally, the attachment element can be designed to engage and / or bear against the distal section of the handlebar both radially on the inner and radially on the outer side to provide a fastening. The attachment element can, for example, engage with the distal section by sliding into it as described. The attachment element can, for example, provide an interference fit. The fastening section can, for example, have several attachment elements that are spaced apart from each other circumferentially and / or radially around an outer circumference of the fastening section.

[0025] The mounting element can form a section of a cylindrical shell, for example, a section of a cylindrical shell spanning substantially 30°. The mounting section can, in particular, have two or more mounting elements. These can form two or more sections of a cylindrical shell. These can be arranged around the longitudinal axis or the insertion axis of the display device. The mounting elements can be arranged on opposite sides of the mounting section. The mounting elements can be parallel to each other, converge, or diverge. For example, the mounting elements can form an angle of up to 1°, up to 2°, up to 5°, up to 10°, up to 15°, up to 20°, or up to 45° to each other. The mounting elements can be made of a metal, a plastic, a ceramic material, and / or a combination thereof.The mounting section can be permanently or detachably connected to the handlebar. The mounting elements can, for example, be elastic or rigid.

[0026] By providing a mounting element for the attachment section, a display device is achieved that can be mounted on the handlebars particularly easily, quickly, and / or user-friendly. This eliminates or minimizes the need for additional mounting hardware or materials.

[0027] In one embodiment, a basic shape of the mounting section corresponds to a basic shape of the distal section of the handlebar. These basic shapes allow the mounting section and the distal section of the handlebar to be easily slid into one another and / or define a specific insertion direction. For example, the basic shape of the mounting section can be cylindrical, and the basic shape of the distal section of the handlebar can be a corresponding hollow cylinder. The outer circumference of the basic shape of the mounting section can be the same as the inner circumference of the basic shape of the distal section of the handlebar. If the mounting section has a round basic shape, the distal section of the handlebar can have a corresponding round basic shape.If the mounting section has a rectangular, triangular, and / or other basic shape, the distal section of the handlebar can also have a rectangular, triangular, and / or other basic shape. Providing the described geometry allows for a mounting section that is particularly easy and intuitive to install. Furthermore, by matching the geometries, a mounting section can be provided that is adapted to the geometry of any handlebar, thus enabling the use of handlebars with non-round distal sections.

[0028] In one embodiment, the display device is designed to allow the display section to be detached from the mounting section. The display section can be separated from the mounting section, for example, by a user. The display section can be connected to and / or detached from the mounting section by a coupling means, in particular by a bayonet fitting. The bayonet fitting can provide a connection that can be established by a rotation. The bayonet fitting can be releasable, for example, by a further rotation in the opposite direction. The bayonet fitting can have two parts, one of which can engage with the other. One part can be arranged on the display section, and the other part can be arranged on the mounting section. The bayonet fitting can also be formed by the mounting section and the display section.The coupling element can alternatively or additionally be designed as a snap-fit ​​connection, by means of which the display section can be connected to and disconnected from the mounting section. The display device can also have an electrical connection between the display section and the mounting section. This connection can be provided, for example, by the coupling element or by another means. Through this electrical connection, data and / or electrical current can be transmitted from the mounting section to the display device. The display section can be removed from the mounting section when the mounting section is attached to the handlebars. The mounting section can remain attached to the handlebars during this process. The display section can also be reconnected to the mounting section.The display section can be detached from the mounting section if the mounting section is not connected to the handlebars. The display section may be designed to be removable.

[0029] By providing the described detachable display section, a display device can be provided that is particularly easy, quick, and / or convenient to attach to and remove from the handlebars. Furthermore, repairs, charging, and / or replacement of the display section can be carried out particularly quickly and easily. For example, the display section can have its own power supply, such as a battery. The display section can then be detached from the rest of the display device for charging. The coupling mechanism can have a USB connector, which can also be used for charging.

[0030] In one embodiment, the display device has a power supply interface configured to connect the display device in the distal section of the handlebars to a power source on the bicycle. A power supply interface can have a connector, for example, a USB connector. The power supply interface can be provided together with the communication interface via a common interface. Alternatively, the power supply interface can be a separate interface. The power supply interface can be wired or wireless. For example, the power supply interface can inductively couple the display device to the power source via a coil. The power supply interface can be located within the display section. It can also be located in the mounting section, either additionally or alternatively.The power source can be a battery, a rechargeable battery, an electric motor, a dynamo, and / or another power source. The power source can provide direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC).

[0031] By providing a described power supply interface, the display device can be powered in a particularly compact, efficient, user-friendly, and / or visually appealing manner. For example, the power supply interface can be located in a section that is not visible when mounted and therefore does not affect the visual appearance of the display device, or only minimally so, such as in or on the mounting section.

[0032] A second aspect concerns a bicycle handlebar with a display device, the display device being attached to a distal section of the handlebar. The handlebar can be a drop bar, for example. It can also be a flat bar, a triathlon bar, or another type of handlebar. The handlebar may, for example, have aerobars, which are particularly aerodynamic. The display device can be the one already described or a similar device. The handlebar may also have cables connected to the display device, in particular its interfaces, which transmit data and / or power. The cables may run inside the handlebar or along its exterior. They may also run partly inside and partly along the exterior.Further features and advantages can be found in the description of the first aspect.

[0033] A third aspect concerns a display system for showing various states, in particular different operating modes, of a bicycle, wherein the display system comprises a display device and a control device. The control device is configured to transmit the current state of the bicycle to the display device via the display device's communication interface. The display device can be the display device already described in the first aspect or correspond to it. Further features and advantages are described in the first aspect.

[0034] The control device can, for example, include a control unit for an electric gearshift, a controllable braking system, a controllable suspension system, and / or an auxiliary motor of the bicycle. The control device can be configured to control the state. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be configured to detect the state, for example, via a data bus and / or a sensor. The control device can be configured to measure current, voltage, power, position, speed, rotational speed, and / or another parameter and detect a state based on this measurement. The control device can be configured to receive a signal corresponding to a state in order to detect a state. The control device can be configured to read a memory to detect a state.The control device may have a communication interface corresponding to the communication interface of the display device.

[0035] A fourth aspect concerns a bicycle with handlebars and a display device attached to them. The display device can be the one already described in the first aspect. The handlebars can be the ones described in the second aspect. The bicycle can additionally or alternatively have the display system already described in the third aspect. Further advantages and features are detailed in the descriptions of these aspects. The bicycle can have an electric motor, which, for example, can be configured to assist the rider's muscle power. Additionally or alternatively, the electric motor can be configured to propel the bicycle, for example, by transmitting rotational power to the wheels. By providing a bicycle with a display device as described above, a bicycle is achieved that is particularly easy and / or pleasant for the rider to use.

[0036] A fifth aspect concerns a method for displaying the state of a bicycle using a display device already described in the first aspect. Further features and advantages can be found in the description of this aspect. The method comprises a first step of transmitting the current state of the bicycle to the display device via the display device's communication interface, and a second step of displaying the state of the bicycle using the display device's illumination. The transmission can involve transferring and / or communicating. For example, the transmission can be carried out by a control device. The method can also include a step of sensing the state of the bicycle. The sensing can involve measuring, detecting, estimating, and / or determining the state.The bicycle's status can be indicated by a light of a specific color, brightness, rhythm, pattern, and / or other user-identifiable illumination. This allows the rider to recognize the bicycle's status and, based on this information, adjust their riding style and / or the bicycle's mode. Brief description of the characters Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a handlebar with the in Fig. 1. Display device shown. Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows the steps of a procedure for displaying the status of a bicycle. Detailed description of the figures

[0037] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic view of a display device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The display device 1 has a mounting section 10 and a display section 14, the display section 14 being connected to the mounting section 10 by a bayonet fitting or other type of releasable connection (not shown). The mounting section 10 is designed to be attached to a distal end 22 of a handlebar 20, as for example in Fig. 2 shown. The display section 14 is designed to be detachably connected to the mounting section 10 and thus to the handlebar 20 by means of the bayonet fitting.

[0038] The display section 14 has a substantially disc-shaped front surface 16 and a communication interface, the communication interface being designed as a cylindrical connector section 15. From the front surface 16, the display section 14 extends cylindrically towards the mounting section 10 along its longitudinal axis, thus forming a cladding surface. The front surface 16 and the connector section 15 are arranged coaxially with each other along a longitudinal axis of the display section 14. The display section 14 is substantially rotationally symmetrical about its longitudinal axis. The front surface 16 is in Fig. 1 is shown in front of connector section 15 and has a larger radius than connector section 15.

[0039] The display section 14 has a lighting device on its front surface 16, which is provided here by five luminaires 2 arranged at equal intervals along an outer circumference of the front surface 16. The luminaires 2 are implemented as LEDs. Starting from a top point of the front surface 16, the luminaires 2 are distributed clockwise along approximately one-fifth of the circumference of the front surface 16. Rectangular recesses are arranged along the remaining circumference. The luminaires 2 have a substantially rectangular shape and extend from the end face of the cylindrical front surface 16 to its lateral surface, thus spanning an edge of the front surface 16 and the lateral surface. The luminaires 2 have a rounded transition between the lateral surface and the end face.

[0040] A round button 3 is located centrally on the front surface 16 of the display section 14. The button 3 is configured to control the display device 1 or a bicycle. For example, the button 3 can be configured to switch the display device 1 and / or the bicycle on or off. Additionally or alternatively, the button 3 can also be configured to switch between different operating modes of the bicycle. A brightness sensor 4 is located below the button 3. This sensor has a round sensor area located below the button 3 and has a smaller diameter than the button itself. The brightness sensor 4 is configured to detect the ambient brightness and provide this information to a control device. This information can be used, for example, to adjust the brightness of the lights 2.

[0041] The connector section 15 has connectors 18 at one end facing away from the front 16, which are designed to be connected to a control device. These can transmit data and / or electrical current to control and / or power the display device 1. On the edge of the connector section 15 facing away from the front 16 in Fig. Two notches are formed between the outer surface and the end face of connector section 15. These notches serve for the mounting of the connectors 18 and are not described further here. The outer surface of connector section 15 is smooth.

[0042] The mounting section 10 has an outer ring 11 and two contact elements 12, the two contact elements 12 being arranged radially outside the connector section 15 on opposite sides of the outer ring 11. The outer ring 11 is located behind the front face 16 and around the connector section 15 of the display section 14. In another embodiment, the outer ring 11 can form part of the display section 14. The outer ring 11 is ring-shaped. In the assembled state, the outer ring 11 rests against the handlebar 20 and thus limits the insertion depth. The outer ring 11 is essentially flush with the handlebar 20 and the display section 14. Here, the outer ring forms part of the bayonet fitting for coupling with the display section 14. The two contact elements 12 are designed to engage with a handlebar 20 in order to attach the display device 1 to it.They have a curved shape that forms two sections of a cylindrical surface, that is, which at least partially follows the shape of the outer ring 11 and the plug section 15.

[0043] The mounting section 10 is arranged coaxially around the display section 14. The contact elements 12 are arranged around the connector section 15 and project beyond its end. The contact elements 12 taper slightly from the outer ring 11 to the connectors 18, thus forming an angle. This allows a clamping effect to be achieved when the component is inserted into the handlebar 20. The contact elements 12, like the outer ring 11, form a cylindrical outer contour and thus a cylindrical basic shape. The front surface 16 rests against the outer ring 11 and is positioned coaxially with it. A thin gap exists between the outer ring 11 and the display section 14 due to their separability. In another embodiment, the outer ring 11 and an outer skin of the display section 14 can also be formed in one piece, for example, together with the contact elements 12.

[0044] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a bicycle handlebar 20 with the in Fig. 1. Display device 1 shown. Only the right side of the handlebar 20 is shown here. The handlebar 20 is a racing bike handlebar and has two downward-pointing bends at the end of the handlebar stem, wherein in Fig. Figure 2 shows only the right arc 21. The display device 1 is arranged at the distal end 22 of the right arc 21. The distal end 22 of the right arc 21 can form a short straight section. The outer ring 11 of the mounting section 10 and the front face 16 of the display section 14 are shown, with the outer ring 11 positioned between the front face 16 and the handlebar 20. Other elements of the display device 1 are not shown in this simplified view. These include, for example, the lights 2, which are directed towards a rider and are therefore located on an upper section of the display section 14 when the bicycle is upright. The display device 1 is arranged coaxially with a center line of the handlebar 20. The handlebar 20 is hollow, meaning it has a cavity or recess not shown here.The mounting elements 12 of the fastening section 10 project into this cavity to attach the display device 1 to the handlebar 20. The display device 1 is thus held in the recess. There can be an additional permanent fixing of the fastening section, such as bonding the mounting elements 12 to the inside of the handlebar 20. The display device 1 is positioned so that the front 16 faces away from the direction of travel of the bicycle. This makes the display device 1 easy to see for the rider. Furthermore, the display device 1 is easily accessible to the rider by hand, for example, to operate the button 3.

[0045] Fig. Figure 3 schematically shows the steps of a procedure for displaying different states, in particular different operating modes, of a bicycle with a [missing information - likely a specific feature or function]. Fig. 1 and Fig.The method comprises a first step (I) of transmitting the current state of the bicycle to the display device 1 via the communication interface 15, and a second step (II) of displaying the transmitted state of the bicycle by the light source 2 of the display device 1. The transmission step (I) can involve transmitting the current state via the communication interface 15, for example, as an electrical and / or digital signal. The transmission step (I) can be performed by a control device of the bicycle or the display device 1. Prior to this, for example, an operating mode, speed, rotational speed, torque, electric current, and / or standstill can be detected. The display step (II) can be performed, in particular, by the light source 2 of the display device 1.For example, these lights can illuminate in different colors depending on the detected state, with each color corresponding to a specific state. The lighting device can also indicate a state by illuminating with a specific rhythm, a specific pattern, and / or with another light pattern recognizable to a user. Reference sign 1 Display device 2 Lighting device / lights 3 buttons 4 brightness sensors 10 Mounting section 11 Outer ring 12 Plant element 14 Display section 15 Plug section 16 Front 18 plugs 20 handlebars 21 sheets 22 distal section I. Transmit II Ads

Claims

[1] Display device (1) for displaying various states, in particular different operating modes, of a bicycle, wherein the display device (1) comprises a mounting section (10), a display section (14) and a communication interface (15), wherein the fastening section (10) is designed to fasten the display device (1) to a distal section (22) of a handlebar (20), wherein the communication interface (15) is designed to receive the various states of the bicycle, wherein the display section (14) has a lighting device (2) which is designed to indicate the various received states, wherein the display device (1) can be mounted on the handlebar (20) by a relative sliding of the mounting section (10) and the distal section (22) of the handlebar (20), wherein the display section (14) can be connected to the mounting section (10) by a bayonet fitting, and wherein the display section is designed to project at least partially from the distal section of the handlebar. [2] Display device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the fastening section (10) forms a first end section of the display device (1) and the display section (14) forms an opposite end section of the display device (1). [3] Display device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the lighting device (2) is designed to indicate at least a first state of the bicycle with a first color and a second state of the bicycle with a second color. [4] Display device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the lighting device (2) is arranged along an outer circumference of the display section (14). [5] Display device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the display device (1) has an input device (3) for capturing user input. [6] Display device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the fastening section (10) has at least one attachment element (12) with which the fastening section (10) can be held on the distal section (22) of the handlebar (20). [7] Display device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a basic shape of the fastening section (10) corresponds to a basic shape of the distal section (22) of the handlebar (20). [8] Display device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the display device (1) has a power supply interface which is designed to couple the display device (1) in the distal section (22) of the handlebar (20) to a power source of the bicycle. [9] Handlebar (20) of a bicycle with a display device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the display device (1) is attached to a distal section (22) of the handlebar (20). [10] Display system for showing different states, in particular different operating modes, of a bicycle, wherein the display system comprises a display device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and a control device, wherein the control device is designed to transmit the current state of the bicycle to the display device (1) via the communication interface (15) of the display device (1). [11] Bicycle with a handlebar (20) and according to claim 9 and / or a display system according to claim 10. [12] Method for displaying different states, in particular different operating modes, of a bicycle with a display device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the steps: Transmitting (I) the current state of the bicycle to the display device (1) via the communication interface (15) of the display device (1); and Indication (II) of the transmitted state of the bicycle by the light device (2) of the display device (1).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Transmitting device

    AT522195A1

  • Bicycle handle grip with lighting function

    CN104176185A

  • Multi-functional turn signal lamp for bicycle

    CN104781135A

  • control device for wireless control of at least one component of a bicycle

    DE102016010801A1

  • Display device for a handlebar with handlebar tube, data processing device, handlebar and vehicle

    DE102018211727A1