ACTUATOR DEVICE FOR A MUSCLE-POWERED VEHICLE

Abstract

An actuating device for a human-powered vehicle comprises a base structure, an actuating element, and an output unit. The base structure is mountable on the human-powered vehicle. The actuating element is movable relative to the base structure in response to user input. The output unit is configured to output, in response to user input, initial information indicating that a residual level of an electrical energy source is lower than a residual level threshold when the residual level is lower than the threshold. The output unit is configured not to output, in response to user input, any further information indicating that the residual level of the electrical energy source is higher than the threshold when the residual level is higher than the threshold.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application US 18 / 455,649, filed August 25, 2023. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application US 18 / 455,649 is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to an actuating device for a muscle-powered vehicle.

[0003] A human-powered vehicle includes an actuating unit configured to actuate an electrical unit. The actuating unit is configured to be powered by an electrical power supply. The electrical unit is configured to be powered by an electrical power supply. One of the objectives of the present disclosure is to reduce power consumption and, at the same time, inform the user of the remaining level of the electrical power supply. SUMMARY

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an actuating device for a human-powered vehicle comprises a base structure, an actuating element, and an output unit. The base structure is mountable on the human-powered vehicle. The actuating element is movable relative to the base structure in response to a user input operation. The output unit is configured to output, in response to the user input operation, first information indicating that a residual level of an electrical power source is lower than a residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold.The output unit is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation, second information indicating that the residual level of the electrical energy source is higher than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold.

[0005] With the electrical device according to the first aspect, it is possible to inform the user, via the output unit, of the first information(s) that the remaining level of the electrical power source is lower than the remaining level threshold. Furthermore, it is possible to omit a process for informing the user of the second information(s) in a case where the remaining level is higher than the remaining level threshold. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the operating device while simultaneously informing the user that the remaining level of the power source, or the remaining charge level, is lower than the remaining level threshold.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the actuating device according to the first aspect is configured so that the output unit includes an indicator. The indicator is configured to display the first information(s) in response to the user input actuation in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold. The indicator is configured not to display the second information(s) in response to the user input actuation in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold.

[0007] With the electrical device according to the second aspect, it is possible to reliably inform the user of the first information(s) via the indicator that the residual level of the electrical energy source is lower than the residual level threshold. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the device while simultaneously reliably informing the user that the residual level of the energy source is below the residual level threshold.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the actuating device according to the second aspect is configured so that the indicator is configured to emit light in response to the user input actuation to display the first information(s) in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold. The indicator is configured not to emit light in response to the user input actuation in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold.

[0009] With the electrical device according to the third aspect, it is possible to reliably inform the user of the first information(s) via the indicator that the residual level of the electrical energy source is lower than the residual level threshold. This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the actuating device while simultaneously informing the user more reliably that the residual level of the energy source is lower than the residual level threshold.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to third aspects further comprises electronic control circuitry electrically connected to the output unit for controlling the output unit based on the user input operation and the residual level of the electrical power source.

[0011] With the electrical device according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to reliably control the output unit using the electronic control circuitry.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects further comprises a power source holder configured to hold the electric power source. The output unit is configured to output, in response to the user input operation, the first information(s) indicating that the residual level of the electric power source held by the power source holder is lower than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold. The output unit is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation, the second information(s) indicating that the residual level of the electric power source held by the power source holder is higher than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold.

[0013] With the electrical device according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to notify the user of the first information(s) relating to the output unit that the residual level of the electrical power source of the operating device is lower than the residual level threshold.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the actuating device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects further comprises communicator circuitry configured to transmit a control signal to an electrical device in response to the user input actuation.

[0015] With the electrical device according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to control the electrical device via the user input operation and the control signal.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the actuating device according to the sixth aspect is configured so that the communicator circuitry includes a radio communicator. The radio communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit the control signal to the electrical device in response to the user input actuation.

[0017] In the electric device according to the seventh aspect, an electric cable connecting the operating device and the electric device can be omitted.

[0018] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the actuating device according to the seventh aspect is configured so that the electrical device contains the electrical power source. The radio communicator is configured to wirelessly receive residual level information regarding the residual level of the electrical power source of the electrical device.

[0019] With the electrical device according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to notify the user of the first information(s) via the output unit that the residual level of the electrical power source of the electrical device is lower than the residual level threshold. This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the actuating device while simultaneously notifying the user that the residual level of the electrical device's power source is lower than the residual level threshold.

[0020] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle comprises a base structure, an operating element, a radio communicator, and an output unit. The base structure is mountable on the human-powered vehicle. The operating element is movable relative to the base structure in response to a user input operation. The radio communicator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal to an electrical device in response to the user input operation. The radio communicator is configured to wirelessly receive remaining level information regarding a remaining level of an electrical power source of the electrical device. The output unit is configured to output information indicating the remaining level of the electrical power source in response to the user input operation.

[0021] With the electrical device according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to inform the user of the remaining level of the electrical power source of the electrical device via the output unit.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the output unit is configured to output, in response to the user input operation, first information indicating that the residual level of the electric power source is lower than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold.

[0023] With the electrical device according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to notify the user, via the output unit, of the first information(s) indicating that the residual level of the electrical energy source is lower than the residual level threshold.

[0024] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the ninth or tenth aspect is configured such that the output unit is configured to output, in response to the user input operation, second information indicating that the residual level of the electric power source is higher than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold.

[0025] With the electrical device according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to notify the user, via the output unit, of the second information(s) indicating that the residual level of the electrical energy source is higher than the residual level threshold.

[0026] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the eighth to eleventh aspects is arranged so that the radio communicator is arranged to wirelessly receive a signal including the residual level information(s) from the electrical device.

[0027] With the electrical device according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to obtain the remaining level information from the electrical device by wirelessly transmitting the signal from the electrical device. Thus, it is possible to reliably inform the user of the remaining level of the electrical power source of the electrical device via the output unit.

[0028] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the twelfth aspect is arranged so that the radio communicator is arranged to wirelessly receive the signal wirelessly transmitted from the electrical device in response to the control signal.

[0029] With the electrical device according to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to obtain the remaining level information(s) from the electrical device by wirelessly transmitting the signal from the electrical device each time the operating element receives the user input operation. Thus, it is possible to more reliably inform the user of the remaining level of the electrical power source of the electrical device via the output unit.

[0030] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the eighth to thirteenth aspects is configured so that the electrical device includes a gear changer with the electrical power source. The radio communicator is configured to wirelessly receive the remaining level information(s) of the electrical power source of the gear changer.

[0031] With the electric device according to the fourteenth aspect, it is possible to inform the user of the remaining level of the electric power source of the gear changer via the output unit.

[0032] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the fourteenth aspect is configured so that the gear changer includes a rear derailleur with the electric power source. The radio communicator is configured to wirelessly receive the remaining level information(s) regarding the electric power source of the rear derailleur.

[0033] With the electrical device according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to inform the user of the remaining level of the electric power source of the rear derailleur via the output unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] A more complete understanding of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same is better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and with reference to the following detailed description. Fig. 1 is a side elevational view of a human-powered vehicle having a control system according to one of the embodiments. Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 are schematic block diagrams of the control system of the Fig. 1 depicted muscle-powered vehicle. Fig. 4 is a schematic block diagram of an actuating device and an electrical device of the Fig. 2 (in a case where a residual level of an electric power source of the electric device is lower than or equal to a residual level threshold). Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of the actuator and electrical device of the Fig. 2 (in a case where the residual level of the electrical energy source of the electrical device is higher than the residual level threshold). Fig. 6 is a schematic block diagram of the actuating device and the electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to a first modification (in a case where the residual level of the electric power source of the electric device is higher than the residual level threshold). Fig. Figure 7 is a schematic block diagram of the actuator and electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to a second modification (in a case where the residual level of the electric power source of the electric device is higher than the residual level threshold). Fig. Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram of the actuating device and the electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to a third modification (in a case where the residual level of the electric power source of the electric device is less than or equal to the residual level threshold). Fig. 9 is a schematic block diagram of the actuating device and the electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to the third modification (in a case where the residual level of the electric power source of the electric device is higher than the residual level threshold). Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram of the actuator and electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to a fourth modification (in a case where the residual level of the electric power source of the electric device is higher than the residual level threshold). Fig. 11 is a schematic block diagram of the actuator and electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to a fifth modification (in a case where a residual level of an electric power source of the actuator is lower than or equal to a residual level threshold). Fig. 12 is a schematic block diagram of the actuator and electrical device of the Fig. 2 according to the fifth modification (in a case where the residual level of the electric power source of the actuator is higher than the residual level threshold). DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0035] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate corresponding or identical elements in the various drawings.

[0036] As in Fig. 1, a human-powered vehicle 10 includes a crank 12, a sprocket 14, a chain 16, a sprocket assembly 18, a wheel 20A, a wheel 20B, and a vehicle body 22. The vehicle body 22 includes, for example, a frame 22F, a handlebar 22H, a front fork 22A, and a seat 22S. The crank 12 is rotatably connected to the vehicle body 22. The crank 12 is rotatable relative to the vehicle body 22 during pedaling. The sprocket 14 is coupled to the crank 12. The sprocket assembly 18 is rotatably coupled to the vehicle body 22. The chain 16 is engaged with the sprocket 14 and the sprocket assembly 18. The sprocket assembly 18 is coupled to the wheel 20A to transmit pedaling force from the crank 12 to the wheel 20A via the sprocket 14 and the chain 16. The sprocket 14 may include at least two sprockets if necessary or desired.

[0037] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a control system 24. The control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device RD. The electrical device RD is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0038] The electrical device RD includes a gear changer. The electrical device RD is configured to change the gear ratio of the human-powered vehicle 10. The gear ratio is a ratio between the rotational speed of the sprocket assembly 18 and the rotational speed of the sprocket 14. The electrical device RD is configured to shift the chain 16 relative to the sprocket assembly 18. In the present embodiment, the gear changer includes a rear derailleur. However, the electrical device RD may also include a different type of gear changer if needed or desired. Examples of a different type of gear changer include a front derailleur and an internally geared hub.

[0039] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the electrical device RD further includes a base member RD1 and a movable member RD2. The base member RD1 is mountable on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The movable member RD2 is movable relative to the base member RD1. The movable member RD2 includes, for example, a chain guide and a linkage. The chain guide can come into contact with the chain 16. The linkage movably couples the base member RD1 and the chain guide. The electrical actuator RD3 is provided at least partially on the base member RD1 or the movable member RD2.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the electric device RD of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric actuator RD3. The electric actuator RD3 is configured to generate an actuation force. Examples of the electric actuator RD3 include an electric motor. The electric actuator RD3 is coupled to at least one of the base member RD1 and the movable member RD2 to move the movable member RD2 relative to the base member RD1.

[0041] The electrical device RD contains an electrical power source RD5. The gear shifter contains the electrical power source RD5. The rear derailleur contains the electrical power source RD5. The electrical power source RD5 contains, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device RD contains a power source holder RD6. The power source holder RD6 is configured to hold the electrical power source RD5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0042] The power source holder RD6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator RD3. The electric power source RD5 is configured to supply the electric actuator RD3 with electricity via the power source holder RD6.

[0043] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device FS. The electrical device FS is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0044] The electrical device FS includes a suspension. The electrical device FS is configured to absorb shocks or vibrations generated when riding on rough terrain. The electrical device FS is installed in the front fork 22A. The electrical device FS is configured to absorb shocks or vibrations transmitted from the wheel 20A. The electrical device FS includes a first longitudinal element FS1 and a second longitudinal element FS2. The first longitudinal element FS1 and the second longitudinal element FS2 are relatively movable.

[0045] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the electrical device FS of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric actuator FS3. The electric actuator FS3 is configured to generate an actuation force. Examples of the electric actuator FS3 include an electric motor.

[0046] The electrical device FS includes a state-changing structure FS4 configured to change the state of the electrical device FS between a first state and a second state. The electrical actuator FS3 is configured to actuate the state-changing structure FS4 to change the state of the electrical device FS between the first state and the second state. The state-changing structure FS4 includes, for example, a valve unit.

[0047] For example, the state change structure FS4 is configured to enable relative movement of the first longitudinal element FS1 and the second longitudinal element FS2 in the first state. The state change structure FS4 is configured to restrict relative movement of the first longitudinal element FS1 and the second longitudinal element FS2 in the second state.

[0048] The electrical device FS contains an electrical energy source FS5. The electrical energy source FS5 includes, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device FS contains a power source holder FS6. The power source holder FS6 is configured to hold the electrical energy source FS5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0049] The energy source holder FS6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator FS3. The electrical energy source FS5 is configured to supply the electric actuator FS3 with electricity via the energy source holder FS6.

[0050] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device RS. The electrical device RS is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0051] The electrical device RS includes a suspension. The electrical device RS is configured to absorb shocks or vibrations caused by driving on rough terrain. The electrical device RS is configured to absorb shocks or vibrations transmitted from the wheel 20B. The electrical device RS includes a first longitudinal element RS1 and a second longitudinal element RS2. The first longitudinal element RS1 and the second longitudinal element RS2 are relatively movable.

[0052] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the electrical device RS of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric actuator RS3. The electric actuator RS3 is configured to generate an actuation force. Examples of the electric actuator RS3 include an electric motor.

[0053] The electrical device RS includes a state-changing structure RS4 configured to change the state of the electrical device RS between a first state and a second state. The electrical actuator RS3 is configured to actuate the state-changing structure RS4 to change the state of the electrical device RS between the first state and the second state. The state-changing structure RS4 includes, for example, a valve unit.

[0054] The state change structure RS4 is configured to move the first longitudinal element RS1 and the second longitudinal element RS2 relative to each other in the first state. The state change structure RS4 is configured to prevent relative movement of the first longitudinal element RS1 and the second longitudinal element RS2 in the second state.

[0055] The electrical device RS contains an electrical energy source RS5. The energy source RS5 includes, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device RS contains a power source holder RS6. The power source holder RS6 is configured to hold the electrical energy source RS5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0056] The energy source holder RS6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator RS3. The electrical energy source RS5 is configured to supply the electric actuator RS3 with electricity via the energy source holder RS6.

[0057] As in Fig. 1, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device RD. The electrical device RD is designed for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0058] The electric device DU includes an assist drive unit. The electric device DU is configured to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle 10. The electric device DU is configured to change an assist ratio depending on the force applied to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0059] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the electrical device DU of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric actuator DU3. The electric actuator DU3 is configured to generate an actuating force. Examples of the electric actuator DU3 include an electric motor. The electric actuator DU3 is configured to apply the actuating force to the human-powered vehicle 10 to assist in propelling the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0060] The electrical device DU contains an electrical energy source DU5. The electrical energy source DU5 contains, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device DU contains a power source holder DU6. The power source holder DU6 is configured to hold the electrical energy source DU5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0061] The energy source holder DU6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator DU3. The electric energy source DU5 is configured to supply the electric actuator DU3 with electricity via the energy source holder DU6.

[0062] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device FB. The electrical device FB is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0063] The electrical device FB contains a braking device. The electrical device FB is configured to apply a braking force to the human-powered vehicle 10. The electrical device FB is configured to apply a braking force to the wheel 20A.

[0064] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the electrical device FB of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a base member FB1, a brake pad FB2, and an electric actuator FB3. The electric actuator FB3 is configured to move the brake pad FB2 relative to the base member FB1. Examples of the electric actuator FB3 include an electric motor. The electric actuator FB3 is configured to apply the braking force to the human-powered vehicle 10 via the brake pad FB2.

[0065] The electrical device FB contains an electrical energy source FB5. The energy source FB5 comprises, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device FB contains a power source holder FB6. The power source holder FB6 is configured to hold the electrical energy source FB5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0066] The energy source holder FB6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator FB3. The electrical energy source FB5 is configured to supply the electric actuator FB3 with electricity via the energy source holder FB6.

[0067] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device RB. The electrical device RB is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0068] The electrical device RB includes a braking device. The electrical device RB is configured to apply a braking force to the human-powered vehicle 10. The electrical device RB is configured to apply a braking force to the wheel 20B.

[0069] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the electrical device RB of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a base member RB1, a brake pad RB2, and an electric actuator RB3. The electric actuator RB3 is configured to move the brake pad RB2 relative to the base member RB1. Examples of the electric drive RB3 include an electric motor. The electric actuator RB3 is configured to apply the braking force to the human-powered vehicle 10 via the brake pad RB2.

[0070] The electrical device RB contains an electrical energy source RB5. The electrical energy source RB5 includes, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device RB contains a power source holder RB6. The power source holder RB6 is configured to hold the electrical energy source RB5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0071] The energy source holder RB6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator RB3. The electric energy source RB5 is configured to supply the electric actuator RB3 with electricity via the energy source holder RB6.

[0072] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electrical device AS. The electrical device AS is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0073] The electrical device AS includes an adjustable seat post. The electrical device AS is configured to change the height of the saddle 22S relative to the frame 22F. The electrical device AS has an adjustable state and a locked state. The electrical device 32 allows the user to change the height of the saddle 22S in the adjustable state. The electrical device 32 is locked to maintain the height of the saddle 22S in the locked state. The electrical device 32 is configured to change the state of the electrical device 32 between the adjustable state and the locked state. The electrical device AS includes a first longitudinal element AS1 and a second longitudinal element AS2. The first longitudinal element AS1 and the second longitudinal element AS2 are movable relative to each other.

[0074] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the electrical device AS of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an electric actuator AS3. The electric actuator AS3 is configured to generate an actuating force. Examples of the electric actuator AS3 include an electric motor. The actuating force changes the state of the electrical device AS between the first state and the second state.

[0075] The electrical device AS includes a state-change structure AS4 configured to change the state of the electrical device AS between the adjustable state and the locked state. The electrical actuator AS3 is configured to actuate the state-change structure AS4 to change the state of the electrical device AS between the adjustable state and the locked state. The state-change structure AS4 includes, for example, a valve unit.

[0076] The state change structure AS4 is configured to allow relative movement of the first longitudinal element AS1 and the second longitudinal element AS2 in the adjustable state. The state change structure AS4 is configured to restrict relative movement of the first longitudinal element AS1 and the second longitudinal element AS2 in the locked state.

[0077] The electrical device AS contains an electrical energy source AS5. The electrical energy source AS5 contains, for example, a battery. Examples of a battery include a primary battery and a secondary battery. The electrical device AS contains a power source holder AS6. The power source holder AS6 is configured to hold the electrical energy source AS5 in a removable and reattachable manner.

[0078] The energy source holder AS6 is electrically connected to the electric actuator AS3. The electrical energy source AS5 is configured to supply the electric actuator AS3 with electricity via the energy source holder AS6.

[0079] The human-powered vehicle 10 may include an electrical device other than the electrical devices RD, FS, RS, DU, FB, RB, and AS, if necessary or desired. At least one of the electrical devices RD, FS, RS, DU, FB, RB, and AS may be omitted from the human-powered vehicle 10, if necessary or desired.

[0080] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED1. The actuating device ED1 is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED1 is configured to actuate the electrical device RD. The actuating device ED1 can also be mounted on parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0081] The actuating device ED1 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED11. The user interface ED11 is configured to receive a user input actuation U1. The user input actuation U1 includes at least one of the user input actuations U1A and U1B. The user interface ED11 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW1A configured to be activated by the user input actuation U1A received from the actuating element ED13A. The user interface ED11 includes an electrical switch SW1B configured to be activated by the user input actuation U1B received from the actuating element ED13B. The user input actuation U1A includes pressing the actuating element ED13A or the electrical switch SW1A. The user input actuation U1B includes pressing the actuating element ED13B or the electrical switch SW1B.The ED11 user interface may include structures other than the electrical switch SW1A or SW1B if necessary or desired. One of the electrical switches SW1A and SW1B may be omitted from the ED11 user interface if necessary or desired.

[0082] The user input actuation U1 includes simultaneously receiving the user input actuations U1A and U1B. The user input actuation U1 includes simultaneously pressing the electrical switches SW1A and SW1B. The user input actuation U1 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED13A or the electrical switch SW1A. The user input actuation U1 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED13B or the electrical switch SW1B.

[0083] The actuating device ED1 is configured to actuate the electrical device RS in response to the user input U1. The actuating device ED1 is configured to generate a control signal CS1 in response to the user input U1. The control signal CS1 includes at least one of the control signals CS1A and CS1B. The actuating device ED1 is configured to generate the control signal CS1A in response to the user input U1A. The actuating device ED1 is configured to generate the control signal CS1B in response to the user input U1B. The actuating device ED1 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices.

[0084] The electric device RD is configured to change the gear ratio in response to the control signal CS1 generated by the actuator ED1. For example, the control signal CS1A indicates one of the upshift and downshift of the electric device RD. The control signal CS1B indicates the other of the upshift and downshift of the electric device RD. One of the control signals CS1A and CS1B may be omitted from the electric device RD if necessary or desired.

[0085] The actuating device ED1 includes an electrical energy source ED15. The actuating device ED1 further includes a power source holder ED16. The power source holder ED16 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED15. The power source holder ED16 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED15. The electrical energy source ED15 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED16. Examples of the electrical energy source ED15 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0086] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED2. The actuating device ED2 is configured for attachment to the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED2 is configured to actuate the electrical device FS. The actuating device ED2 can also be attached to parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0087] The actuating device ED2 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED21. The user interface ED21 is configured to receive a user input actuation U2. The user input actuation U2 includes at least one of the user input actuations U2A and U2B. The user interface ED21 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW2A configured to be activated by the user input actuation U2A received from the actuating element ED23A. The user interface ED21 includes an electrical switch SW2B configured to be activated by the user input actuation U2B received from the actuating element ED23B. The user input actuation U2A includes pressing the actuating element ED23A or the electrical switch SW2A. The user input actuation U2B includes pressing the actuating element ED23B or the electrical switch SW2B.The ED21 user interface may include structures other than the electrical switch SW2A or SW2B if required or desired. One of the electrical switches SW2A and SW2B may be omitted from the ED21 user interface if required or desired.

[0088] The user input actuation U2 includes simultaneously receiving the user input actuations U2A and U2B. The user input actuation U2 includes simultaneously pressing the electrical switches SW2A and SW2B. The user input actuation U2 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED23A or the electrical switch SW2A. The user input actuation U2 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED23B or the electrical switch SW2B.

[0089] The actuating device ED2 is configured to actuate the electrical device RS in response to the user input actuation U2. The actuating device ED2 is configured to generate a control signal CS2 in response to the user input actuation U2. The control signal CS2 includes at least one of the control signals CS2A and CS2B. The actuating device ED2 is configured to generate the control signal CS2A in response to the user input actuation U2A. The actuating device ED2 is configured to generate the control signal CS2B in response to the user input actuation U2B. The actuating device ED2 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices.

[0090] For example, the electrical device FS is configured to absorb shocks or vibrations caused by driving on rough terrain in the first state. The electrical device FS is configured not to absorb shocks or vibrations caused by driving on rough terrain in the second state. The electrical device FS may be configured to have a first stroke in the first state, while the electrical device FS may be configured to have a second stroke that is different from the first stroke in the second state. The electrical device FS may be configured to have a first damping performance in the first state, while the electrical device FS may be configured to have a second damping performance that is different from the first damping performance in the second state.

[0091] The electrical device FS is configured to change the state of the electrical device FS between the first state and the second state in response to the control signal CS2. The electrical device FS is configured to change the state of the electrical device FS from the first state to the second state in response to the control signal CS2A. The electrical device FS is configured to change the state of the electrical device FS from the second state to the first state in response to the control signal CS2A. The control signal CS2A or CS2B indicates the change in the state of the electrical device FS. One of the control signals CS2A and CS2B can be omitted from the electrical device FS if necessary or desired.

[0092] The actuating device ED2 includes an electrical energy source ED25. The actuating device ED2 further includes a power source holder ED26. The power source holder ED26 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED25. The power source holder ED26 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED25. The power source ED25 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED26. Examples of the electrical energy source ED25 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0093] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED3. The actuating device ED3 is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED3 is configured to actuate the electrical device RS. The actuating device ED3 can also be mounted on parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0094] The actuating device ED3 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED31. The user interface ED31 is configured to receive a user input actuation U3. The user input actuation U3 includes at least one of the user input actuations U3A and U3B. The user interface ED31 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW3A configured to be activated by the user input actuation U3A received from the actuating element ED33A. The user interface ED31 includes an electrical switch SW3B configured to be activated by the user input actuation U3B received from the actuating element ED33B. The user input actuation U3A includes pressing the actuating element ED33A or the electrical switch SW3A. The user input actuation U3B includes pressing the actuating element ED33B or the electrical switch SW3B.The ED31 user interface may include structures other than the electrical switch SW3A or SW3B if necessary or desired. One of the electrical switches SW3A and SW3B may be omitted from the ED31 user interface if necessary or desired.

[0095] The user input actuation U3 includes simultaneously receiving the user input actuations U3A and U3B. The user input actuation U3 includes simultaneously pressing the electrical switches SW3A and SW3B. The user input actuation U3 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED33A or the electrical switch SW3A. The user input actuation U3 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED33B or the electrical switch SW3B.

[0096] The actuating device ED3 is configured to actuate the electrical device RS in response to the user input actuation U3. The actuating device ED3 is configured to generate a control signal CS3 in response to the user input actuation U3. The control signal CS3 includes at least one of the control signals CS3A and CS3B. The actuating device ED3 is configured to generate the control signal CS3A in response to the user input actuation U3A. The actuating device ED3 is configured to generate the control signal CS3B in response to the user input actuation U3B. The actuating device ED3 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices.

[0097] For example, the electrical device RS is configured to absorb shocks or vibrations caused by driving on rough terrain in the first state. The electrical device RS is configured not to absorb shocks or vibrations caused by driving on rough terrain in the second state. The electrical device RS may be configured to have a first stroke in the first state, while the electrical device RS may be configured to have a second stroke that is different from the first stroke in the second state. The electrical device RS may be configured to have a first damping performance in the first state, while the electrical device RS may be configured to have a second damping performance that is different from the first damping performance in the second state.The electrical device RS is configured to change the state of the electrical device RS from the first state to the second state in response to the control signal CS3A. The electrical device RS is configured to change the state of the electrical device RS from the second state to the first state in response to the control signal CS3B. The control signal CS3A or CS3B indicates the change in the state of the electrical device RS. One of the control signals CS3A and CS3B can be omitted from the electrical device RS if necessary or desired.

[0098] The actuating device ED3 includes an electrical energy source ED35. The actuating device ED3 further includes a power source holder ED36. The power source holder ED36 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED35. The power source holder ED36 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED35. The electrical energy source ED35 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED36. Examples of the electrical energy source ED35 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0099] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED4. The actuating device ED4 is configured for mounting on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED4 is configured to actuate the electrical device DU. The actuating device ED4 can also be mounted on parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0100] The actuating device ED4 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED41. The user interface ED41 is configured to receive a user input actuation U4. The user input actuation U4 includes at least one of the user input actuations U4A and U4B. The user interface ED41 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW4A configured to be activated by the user input actuation U4A received from the actuating element ED43A. The user interface ED41 includes an electrical switch SW4B configured to be activated by the user input actuation U4B received from the actuating element ED43B. The user input actuation U4A includes pressing the actuating element ED43A or the electrical switch SW4A. The user input actuation U4B includes pressing the actuating element ED43B or the electrical switch SW4B.The ED41 user interface may include structures other than the electrical switch SW4A or SW4B if required or desired. One of the electrical switches SW4A and SW4B may be omitted from the ED41 user interface if required or desired.

[0101] The user input actuation U4 includes simultaneously receiving the user input actuations U4A and U4B. The user input actuation U4 includes simultaneously pressing the electrical switches SW4A and SW4B. The user input actuation U4 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED43A or the electrical switch SW4A. The user input actuation U4 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED43B or the electrical switch SW4B.

[0102] The actuating device ED4 is configured to actuate the electrical device DU in response to the user input actuation U4. The actuating device ED4 is configured to generate a control signal CS4 in response to the user input actuation U4. The control signal CS4 includes at least one of the control signals CS4A and CS4B. The actuating device ED4 is configured to generate the control signal CS4A in response to the user input actuation U4A. The actuating device ED4 is configured to generate the control signal CS4B in response to the user input actuation U4B. The actuating device ED4 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices.

[0103] The electrical device DU is configured, for example, to change the assistance ratio, i.e., the ratio between the assisted driving force and the human force acting on the human-powered vehicle 10, in response to the control signal CS4A or CS4B generated by the actuating device ED4. The electrical device DU includes at least two assistance ratios. The electrical device DU is configured to change the assistance ratio between the at least two assistance ratios in response to the control signal CS4A or CS4B. The electrical device DU is configured to increase the assistance ratio in response to the control signal CS4A. The electrical device DU is configured to decrease the assistance ratio in response to the control signal CS4B.

[0104] The actuating device ED4 includes an electrical energy source ED45. The actuating device ED4 further includes a power source holder ED46. The power source holder ED46 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED45. The power source holder ED46 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED45. The electrical energy source ED45 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED46. Examples of the electrical energy source ED45 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0105] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED5. The actuating device ED5 is configured for attachment to the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED5 is configured to actuate the electrical device FB. The actuating device ED5 can also be mounted on parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0106] The actuator ED5 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED51. The user interface ED51 is configured to receive a user input actuation U5. The user interface ED51 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW5 configured to be activated by the user input actuation U5. The user input actuation U5 includes pressing the electrical switch SW5. The user interface ED51 may also include structures other than the electrical switch SW5 if necessary or desired.

[0107] The actuating device ED5 is configured to actuate the electrical device FB in response to the user input U5. The actuating device ED5 is configured to generate a control signal CS5 in response to the user input U5. The actuating device ED5 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices. For example, the electrical device FB is configured to effect the braking force on the human-powered vehicle 10 in response to the control signal CS5.

[0108] The actuating device ED5 includes an electrical energy source ED55. The actuating device ED5 further includes a power source holder ED56. The power source holder ED56 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED55. The power source holder ED56 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED55. The electrical energy source ED55 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED56. Examples of the electrical energy source ED55 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0109] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED6. The actuating device ED6 is configured for attachment to the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED6 is configured to actuate the electrical device RB. The actuating device ED6 can also be attached to parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0110] The actuator ED6 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED61. The user interface ED61 is configured to receive a user input actuation U6. The user interface ED61 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW6 configured to be activated by the user input actuation U6. The user input actuation U6 includes pressing the electrical switch SW6. The user interface ED61 may also include structures other than the electrical switch SW6 if necessary or desired.

[0111] The actuating device ED6 is configured to actuate the electrical device RB in response to the user input U6. The actuating device ED6 is configured to generate a control signal CS6 in response to the user input U6. The actuating device ED6 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices. For example, the electrical device RB is configured to effect the braking force on the human-powered vehicle 10 in response to the control signal CS6.

[0112] The actuating device ED6 includes an electrical energy source ED65. The actuating device ED6 further includes a power source holder ED66. The power source holder ED66 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED65. The power source holder ED66 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED65. The electrical energy source ED65 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED66. Examples of the electrical energy source ED65 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0113] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 3, the control system 24 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an actuating device ED7. The actuating device ED7 is configured for attachment to the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating device ED7 is configured to actuate the electrical device AS. The actuating device ED7 can also be attached to parts other than the handlebar 22H if necessary or desired.

[0114] The actuating device ED7 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes a user interface ED71. The user interface ED71 is configured to receive a user input actuation U7. The user input actuation U7 includes at least one of the user input actuations U7A and U7B. The user interface ED71 includes, for example, an electrical switch SW7A configured to be activated by the user input actuation U7A received from the actuating element ED73A. The user interface ED71 includes an electrical switch SW7B configured to be activated by the user input actuation U7B received from the actuating element ED73B. The user input actuation U7A includes pressing the actuating element ED73A or the electrical switch SW7A. The user input actuation U7B includes pressing the actuating element ED73B or the electrical switch SW7B.The ED71 user interface may include structures other than the electrical switch SW7A or SW7B if required or desired. One of the electrical switches SW7A and SW7B may be omitted from the ED71 user interface if required or desired.

[0115] The user input actuation U7 includes simultaneously receiving the user input actuations U7A and U7B. The user input actuation U7 includes simultaneously pressing the electrical switches SW7A and SW7B. The user input actuation U7 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED73A or the electrical switch SW7A. The user input actuation U7 includes a normal press, a long press, or a multiple press of the actuator ED73B or the electrical switch SW7B.

[0116] The actuating device ED7 is configured to actuate the electrical device AS in response to the user input actuation U7. The actuating device ED7 is configured to generate a control signal CS7 in response to the user input actuation U7. The control signal CS7 includes at least one of the control signals CS7A and CS7B. The actuating device ED7 is configured to generate the control signal CS7A in response to the user input actuation U7A. The actuating device ED7 is configured to generate the control signal CS7B in response to the user input actuation U7B. The actuating device ED7 may include a single actuating device or at least two separate actuating devices.

[0117] For example, the electrical device AS is configured to change the state of the electrical device AS from the locked state to the adjustable state in response to the control signal CS7A. The electrical device AS is configured to change the state of the electrical device AS from the adjustable state to the locked state in response to the control signal CS7A. The control signal CS7A or CS7B indicates the change in the state of the electrical device AS. One of the control signals CS7A and CS7B can be omitted from the electrical device AS if necessary or desired.

[0118] The actuating device ED7 includes an electrical energy source ED75. The actuating device ED7 further includes a power source holder ED76. The power source holder ED76 is configured to hold the electrical energy source ED75. The power source holder ED76 is configured to removably and reattachably hold the electrical energy source ED75. The electrical energy source ED75 is configured to be removably and reattachably attached to the power source holder ED76. Examples of the electrical energy source ED75 include a primary battery and a secondary battery.

[0119] In the present application, the term "human-powered vehicle" includes a vehicle that travels using a motive power that includes at least the human power of a user driving the vehicle. The human-powered vehicle includes various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, racing bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, handbikes, and recumbent bicycles. In addition, the human-powered vehicle also includes an electric bicycle, a so-called e-bike. The electric bicycle is an electrically assisted bicycle that supports the propulsion of a vehicle with an electric motor. However, the total number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited to two. The human-powered vehicle also includes, for example, a vehicle with one wheel or three or more wheels. In particular, the human-powered vehicle does not include a vehicle that uses only one power source as its motive power.Examples of the power source include an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Generally, a light road vehicle, i.e., a vehicle that does not require a driver's license for use on public roads, is considered a human-powered vehicle.

[0120] In the present application, the following directional terms "front," "rear," "forward," "backward," "left," "right," "across," "upward," and "downward," and any other similar directional terms, refer to the directions determined based on the user being in the default user position within the human-powered vehicle 10, facing a handlebar or steering. Examples of the default user position include a saddle and a seat.Accordingly, these terms used to describe the electrical devices RD, FS, RS, DU, FB, RB and AS, the operating devices ED1, ED2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED6 and ED7 or other devices should be interpreted with respect to the human-powered vehicle 10 equipped with the electrical devices RD, FS, RS, DU, FB, RB and AS, the operating devices ED1, ED2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED6 and ED7 or other devices as used in an upright driving position on a horizontal surface.

[0121] In the present embodiment, the electrical device RD and the actuator ED1 are described in detail below. The structure of the electrical device FS can be applied to any of the electrical devices FS, RS, DU, FB, RB, and AS, or to other electrical devices, as needed or desired. The structure of the actuator ED1 can be applied to any of the actuators ED2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED6, and ED7.

[0122] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the actuating device ED1 of the human-powered vehicle 10 comprises a base structure ED12. The base structure ED12 is mountable on the human-powered vehicle 10. The base structure ED12 is mountable on the vehicle body 22 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The base structure ED12 is mountable on the handlebar 22H of the vehicle body 22. However, the base structure ED12 may also be adapted for mounting on other parts of the human-powered vehicle 10 if necessary or desired.

[0123] The user interface ED11 includes an actuating element ED13. The actuating element ED13 is part of the actuating device ED1 of the human-powered vehicle 10. The actuating element ED13 is movable relative to the base structure ED12 in response to the user input U1. The actuating element ED13 can be touched by the user's finger when the user actuates the actuating device ED1.

[0124] In the present embodiment, the actuator ED13 includes the actuators ED13A and ED13B. The actuator ED13A is movable relative to the base structure ED12 in response to the user input U1A. The actuator ED13B is movable relative to the base structure ED12 in response to the user input U1B.

[0125] The electrical switch SW1A is configured to be activated in response to the user input U1A received by the actuator ED13A. The electrical switch SW1A is coupled to the actuator ED13A for activation in response to the user input U1A received by the actuator ED13A.

[0126] The electrical switch SW1B is configured to be activated in response to the user input U1B received from the actuator ED13B. The electrical switch SW1B is coupled to the actuator ED13B for activation in response to the user input U1B received from the actuator ED13B.

[0127] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the actuating device ED1 further comprises a communicator circuitry WC1. The communicator circuitry WC1 is configured to transmit the control signal CS1 to the electrical device RD in response to the user input actuation U1. The communicator circuitry WC1 is configured to transmit the control signal CS1 to the electrical device RD in response to the user input actuation U1. The communicator circuitry WC1 is configured to transmit the control signal CS1A to the electrical device RD in response to the user input actuation U1A. The communicator circuitry WC1 is configured to transmit the control signal CS1B to the electrical device RD in response to the user input actuation U1B.

[0128] The electrical device RD includes an additional communicator circuitry WC2. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 is configured to communicate with the communicator circuitry WC1 of the actuating device ED1. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 is configured to receive the control signal CS1 from the communicator circuitry WC1. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 is configured to receive at least one of the control signals CS1A and CS1B from the communicator circuitry WC1.

[0129] The communicator circuitry WC1 includes a radio communicator WC11. The operating device ED1 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes the radio communicator WC11. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the electrical device RD. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly transmit the control signal CS1 to the electrical device RD in response to the user input U1. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly transmit the control signal CS1A to the electrical device RD in response to the user input U1A. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly transmit the control signal CS1B to the electrical device RD in response to the user input U1B.

[0130] In the present embodiment, the communicator circuitry WC1 includes the radio communicator WC11. However, if necessary or desired, the communicator circuitry WC1 may also include a wired communicator configured to communicate with another wired communicator via an electrical cable instead of or in addition to the radio communicator WC11. If necessary or desired, the communicator circuitry WC1 may be configured to transmit the control signal CS1 to the additional communicator circuitry WC2 via an electrical cable.

[0131] The additional communicator circuitry WC2 includes an additional radio communicator WC21. The electrical device RD of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes the additional radio communicator WC21. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the electrical device RD. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to wirelessly receive the control signal CS1 from the actuating device ED1. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to wirelessly receive the control signal CS1A from the actuating device ED1. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to wirelessly receive the control signal CS1B from the actuating device ED1.

[0132] In the present embodiment, the additional communicator circuitry WC2 includes the additional radio communicator WC21. However, if necessary or desired, the additional communicator circuitry WC2 may also include a wired communicator configured to communicate with another wired communicator via an electrical cable instead of or in addition to the additional radio communicator WC21. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 may, if necessary or desired, be configured to receive the control signal CS1 from the communicator circuitry WC1 via an electrical cable.

[0133] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the actuating device ED1 further comprises electronic control circuitry EC1. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the communicator circuitry WC1 to communicate with the additional communicator circuitry WC2. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the radio communicator WC11 to wirelessly communicate with the additional radio communicator WC21. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to be coupled to another radio communicator, such as the additional radio communicator WC21, through a pairing process. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to couple to another radio communicator, such as the radio communicator WC11, using a pairing process.

[0134] The electronic control circuitry EC1 includes a processor EC11. The electronic control circuitry EC1 includes a memory EC12. The processor EC11 is coupled to the memory EC12. The memory EC12 is coupled to the processor EC11. The actuator ED1 includes a printed circuit board EC13 and a system bus EC14. The processor EC11 and the memory EC12 are electrically mounted on the printed circuit board EC13. The processor EC11 is electrically connected to the memory EC12 via the printed circuit board EC13 and the system bus EC14. The memory EC12 is electrically connected to the processor EC11 via the printed circuit board EC13 and the system bus EC14. The electronic control circuitry EC1 includes, for example, a semiconductor. The processor EC11 includes a semiconductor. The memory EC12 includes a semiconductor. However, the control circuitry EC1 can also be free of a semiconductor if needed or desired.The EC11 processor can be semiconductor-free if needed or desired. The EC12 memory can be semiconductor-free if needed or desired.

[0135] The processor EC11 includes, for example, at least a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), and a memory controller. The memory EC12 is electrically connected to the processor EC11. The memory EC12 includes, for example, at least one of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory. Examples of volatile memory include random access memory (RAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM). Examples of non-volatile memory include read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a magnetic disk. The memory EC12 includes memory areas, each with an address. The processor EC11 is configured to control the memory EC12, store data in the memory areas of the memory EC12, and read data from the memory areas of the memory EC12.The processor EC11 may also be referred to as the hardware processor EC11 or as the processor circuit or circuit arrangement EC11. The memory EC12 may also be referred to as the hardware memory EC12 or as the memory circuit or circuit arrangement EC12. The memory EC12 may also be referred to as the computer-readable storage medium EC12.

[0136] The control circuitry EC1 is configured to execute at least one control algorithm of the actuating device ED1. For example, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is programmed to execute at least one control algorithm of the actuating device ED1. The memory EC12 stores at least one program with at least one program instruction. The at least one program is read into the processor EC11, and as a result, the at least one control algorithm of the actuating device ED1 is executed based on the at least one program. The electronic control circuitry EC1 may also be referred to as an electronic controller EC1. The control circuitry EC1 may also be referred to as an electronic hardware control circuit or control circuitry EC1.

[0137] The structure of the first electronic control circuitry EC1 is not limited to the above structure. The structure of the electronic control circuitry EC1 is not limited to the above structure. The structure of the electronic control circuitry EC1 is not limited to the processor EC11 and the memory EC12. The electronic control circuitry EC1 can be implemented using hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software. In the present embodiment, the processor EC11 and the memory EC12 are integrated as a single chip, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). However, the processor EC11 and the memory EC12 can also be implemented as separate chips if necessary or desired.The electronic control circuitry EC1 may, if required or desired, include the processor EC11, the memory EC12, the circuit board EC13, and the system bus EC14. The electronic control circuitry EC1 may comprise at least two electronic controllers provided separately.

[0138] The electronic control circuitry EC1 can include at least two separately provided electronic controllers. The at least one control algorithm of the actuating device ED1 can be executed as needed or desired by the at least two electronic controllers. The electronic control circuitry EC1 can include at least two hardware processors that are provided separately from one another. The electronic control circuitry EC1 can include at least two separately provided hardware memories. The at least one control algorithm of the first actuating device ED1 can be executed as needed or desired by the at least two hardware processors. The at least one control algorithm of the actuating device ED1 can be stored in the at least two hardware memories as needed or desired.The first electronic control circuitry EC1 may, if required or desired, include at least two separately provided circuit boards. The first electronic control circuitry EC1 may, if required or desired, include at least two separately provided system buses.

[0139] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the communicator circuit assembly WC1 is electrically mounted on the printed circuit board EC13. The communicator circuit assembly WC1 is electrically mounted on the printed circuit board EC13. However, the communicator circuit assembly WC1 may also be mounted on another printed circuit board in a case where the electronic control circuit assembly EC1 includes at least two printed circuit boards. The communicator circuit assembly WC1 may be mounted on another printed circuit board in a case where the electronic control circuit assembly EC1 includes at least two printed circuit boards. The communicator circuit assembly WC1 may be electrically mounted on an electrical component other than a printed circuit board.

[0140] The communicator circuit assembly WC1 is electrically connected to the processor EC11 and the memory EC12 via the circuit board EC13 and the system bus EC14. The communicator circuit assembly WC1 includes a signal transmission circuit or circuit arrangement, a signal reception circuit or circuit arrangement, and an antenna. Therefore, the communicator circuit assembly WC1 can also be referred to as the communicator circuit or circuit arrangement WC1.

[0141] The radio communicator WC11 is configured to superimpose digital signals onto carrier waves using a predetermined radio communication protocol for wireless transmission. In the present embodiment, the radio communicator WC11 is configured to encrypt signals with a cryptographic key for encrypting radio signals. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to transmit radio signals via the antenna.

[0142] The radio communicator WC11 is configured to receive radio signals via the antenna. In the present embodiment, the radio communicator WC11 is configured to decrypt the radio signals to detect signals transmitted by other radio communicators. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to decrypt the radio signals using the cryptographic key.

[0143] At least one of the processor EC11, the memory EC12, and the communicator circuitry WC1 can be integrated as a single chip with another of the processor EC11, the memory EC12, and the communicator circuitry WC1, if necessary or desired. At least one of the processor EC11, the memory EC12, and the communicator circuitry WC1 can be a separate chip from another of the processor EC11, the memory EC12, and the communicator circuitry WC1, if necessary or desired.

[0144] The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to periodically determine a residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 of the actuating device ED1. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to store the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 in the memory EC12. Examples of the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 are the state of charge (SOC) and the state of health (SOH).

[0145] The electrical device RD includes a battery sensor ED19. The battery sensor ED19 is configured to detect the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15. The battery sensor ED19 is electrically connected to the energy source holder RD6 and the electronic control circuitry EC1. The battery sensor ED19 is configured to detect the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 at regular intervals.

[0146] The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to compare the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 with a residual level threshold LVT1. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to store the residual level threshold LVT1 in the memory EC12.

[0147] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the electrical device RD of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an additional electronic control circuitry EC2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is electrically connected to the electric actuator RD3 to control the electric actuator RD3 based on the control signal CS1. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is electrically connected to the electric actuator RD3 to control the electric actuator RD3 based on the control signal CS1A or CS1B. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the electric actuator RD3 to generate the actuation force based on the control signal CS1. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the electric actuator RD3 to generate the actuation force based on the control signal CS1A or CS1B.

[0148] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured, for example, to control the electric actuator RD3 to move the movable element RD2 in an upshift direction in response to the control signal CS1A. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the electric actuator RD3 to move the movable element RD2 in a downshift direction in response to the control signal CS1B.

[0149] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is electrically connected to the additional communicator circuitry WC2 to control the additional communicator circuitry WC2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional communicator circuitry WC2 to wirelessly communicate with the communicator circuitry WC1.

[0150] The power source holder RD6 is electrically connected to the additional electronic control circuitry EC2, the additional communicator circuitry WC2, and the electric actuator RD3. The electrical power source RD5 is configured to supply electricity to the additional electronic control circuitry EC2, the additional communicator circuitry WC2, and the electric actuator RD3 via the power source holder RD6.

[0151] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 includes a processor EC21. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 includes a memory EC22. The processor EC21 is coupled to the memory EC22. The memory EC22 is coupled to the processor EC21. The electrical device RD includes a printed circuit board EC23 and a system bus EC24. The processor EC21 and the memory EC22 are electrically mounted on the printed circuit board EC23. The processor EC21 is electrically connected to the memory EC22 via the printed circuit board EC23 and the system bus EC24. The memory EC22 is electrically connected to the processor EC21 via the printed circuit board EC23 and the system bus EC24. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 includes, for example, a semiconductor. The processor EC21 includes a semiconductor. The memory EC22 includes a semiconductor.However, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 can also be semiconductor-free if necessary or desired. The processor EC21 can be semiconductor-free if necessary or desired. The memory EC22 can be semiconductor-free if necessary or desired.

[0152] The processor EC21 includes, for example, at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), and a memory controller. The memory EC22 is electrically connected to the processor EC21. The memory EC22 includes, for example, at least one of volatile and non-volatile memory. Examples of volatile memory include random access memory (RAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM). Examples of non-volatile memory include read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a magnetic disk. The memory EC22 includes storage areas, each with an address. The processor EC21 is configured to control the memory EC22, store data in the storage areas of the memory EC22, and read data from the storage areas of the memory EC22.The EC22 memory may also be referred to as hardware memory EC22. The EC22 memory may also be referred to as computer-readable storage medium EC22.

[0153] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to execute at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD. For example, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is programmed to execute at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD. The memory EC22 stores at least one program with at least one program instruction. The at least one program is read into the processor EC21, and thereby the at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD is executed based on the at least one program. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may also be referred to as additional electronic control circuitry EC2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may also be referred to as additional electronic hardware control circuitry or control circuitry EC2.

[0154] The structure of the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is not limited to the above structure. The structure of the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is not limited to the above structure. The structure of the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is not limited to the processor EC21 and the memory EC22. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 can be implemented by hardware alone or by a combination of hardware and software. In the present embodiment, the processor EC21 and the memory EC22 are integrated as a single chip, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). However, the processor EC21 and the memory EC22 can also be separate chips if necessary or desired.The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may, if required or desired, include the processor EC21, the memory EC22, the printed circuit board EC23, and the system bus EC24. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may consist of at least two electronic controllers that are provided separately.

[0155] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may include at least two separately provided electronic controllers. The at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD may be executed by the at least two electronic controllers as needed or desired. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may include at least two separately provided hardware processors. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may include at least two separately provided hardware memories. The at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD may be executed by the at least two hardware processors as needed or desired. The at least one control algorithm of the electrical device RD may be stored in the at least two hardware memories as needed or desired.The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may, if required or desired, include at least two printed circuit boards that are provided separately. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may include at least two system buses that are provided separately if required or desired.

[0156] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the additional communicator circuitry WC2 is electrically mounted on the printed circuit board EC23. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 is electrically mounted on the printed circuit board EC23. However, the additional communicator circuitry WC2 may also be mounted on a different printed circuit board in a case where the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 includes at least two printed circuit boards. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 may be mounted on a different printed circuit board if the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 includes at least two printed circuit boards. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 may be electrically mounted on an electrical component other than a printed circuit board.

[0157] The additional communicator circuitry WC2 is electrically connected to the processor EC21 and the memory EC22 via the circuit board EC23 and the system bus EC24. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 includes a signal transmission circuit or circuitry, a signal reception circuit or circuitry, and an antenna. Therefore, the additional communicator circuitry WC2 can also be referred to as a radio communication circuit or circuitry WC2.

[0158] The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to superimpose digital signals onto carrier waves for wireless transmission of signals using a predetermined radio communication protocol. In the present embodiment, the additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to encrypt signals with a cryptographic key to generate encrypted radio signals. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to transmit radio signals via the antenna.

[0159] The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to receive radio signals via the antenna. In the present embodiment, the additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to decode the radio signals to detect the signals transmitted by other radio communicators. The additional radio communicator WC21 is configured to decrypt the radio signals using the cryptographic key.

[0160] The electrical device RD includes an actuator driver RD7. The actuator driver RD7 is electrically connected to the electrical actuator RD3 to control the electrical actuator RD3 based on a command generated by the additional electronic control circuitry EC2. The actuator driver RD7 is electrically connected to the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 to receive the command from the additional electronic control circuitry EC2. The actuator driver RD7 is configured to supply the electrical actuator RD3 with electricity from the electrical power source RD5 based on the command. The actuator driver RD7 is configured to control the actuation direction of the electrical actuator RD3 based on the command.

[0161] For example, the actuator driver RD7 is configured to control the electric actuator RD3 to move the movable element RD2 in the upshift direction in response to an upshift command transmitted from the additional electronic control circuitry EC2. The actuator driver RD7 is configured to control the electric actuator RD3 to move the movable element RD2 in the downshift direction in response to a downshift command transmitted from the additional electronic control circuitry EC2.

[0162] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 of the additional communicator circuitry WC2, to wirelessly transmit a signal SG to the actuating device ED1 in response to the control signal CS1. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 of the additional communicator circuitry WC2, to wirelessly transmit the signal SG to the actuating device ED1 in response to the control signal CS1A or CS1B. The signal SG contains an acknowledgment signal. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to receive the signal SG via the radio communicator WC11 of the communicator circuitry WC1.The electronic control circuit arrangement EC 1 detects from the signal SG that the radio connection between the radio communicator WC11 and the additional radio communicator WC21 still exists.

[0163] At least one of the processor EC21, the memory EC22, the additional radio communication circuitry WC2, and the actuator driver RD7 can be integrated as a single chip with another of the processor EC21, the memory EC22, the additional radio communication circuitry WC2, and the actuator driver RD7, if required or desired. At least one of the processor EC21, the memory EC22, the additional radio communication circuitry WC2, and the actuator driver RD7 can be a separate chip from another of the processor EC21, the memory EC22, the additional radio communication circuitry WC2, and the actuator driver RD7, if required or desired.

[0164] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to periodically determine a residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to store the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 in the memory EC22. Examples of the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 include an SOC and an SOH.

[0165] The electrical device RD includes a battery sensor RD9. The battery sensor RD9 is configured to detect the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5. The battery sensor RD9 is electrically connected to the energy source holder RD6 and the additional electronic control circuitry EC2. The battery sensor RD9 is configured to detect the residual level LV2 of the energy source RD5 at regular intervals.

[0166] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to compare the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 with a residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to store the residual level threshold LVT2 in the memory EC22.

[0167] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 4, the actuating device ED1 of the human-powered vehicle 10 includes an output unit ED17. The output unit ED17 is configured to output information relating to the human-powered vehicle 10. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is electrically connected to the output unit ED17 to control the output unit ED17. The output unit ED17 is electrically connected to the electrical energy source ED15 via the energy source holder ED16.

[0168] The electronic control circuitry EC1 is electrically connected to the output unit ED17 to control the output unit ED17 based on the user input U1 and the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 of the electrical device RD. The output unit ED17 is configured to output information indicating the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source ED15 in response to the user input U1.

[0169] The output unit ED17 is configured to output, in response to the user input operation U1, first information INF21 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electric power source RD5 is lower than a residual level threshold LVT2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0170] In the present embodiment, the output unit ED17 is configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to at least one of the user input operations U1A and U1B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The output unit ED17 is configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to the operation of at least one of the operation elements ED13A and ED13B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0171] The output unit ED17 is configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to the user input actuation U1A in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The output unit ED17 is configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to the actuation of the actuating element ED13A in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0172] The output unit ED17 is configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to the user input actuation U1B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The output unit ED17 is configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to the actuation of the actuating element ED13B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0173] However, the user input actuation U1 is not limited to one of the user input actuations U1A and U1B, the pressing of one of the actuation elements ED13A and ED13B, or the pressing of one of the electrical switches SW1A and SW1B. The output unit ED17 may be configured to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to another user input actuation, such as simultaneously receiving the user inputs U1A and U1B, simultaneously pressing the actuation elements ED13A and ED13B, and simultaneously pressing the electrical switches SW1A and SW1B.

[0174] In the present embodiment, the output unit ED17 includes an indicator ED18. The indicator ED18 is configured to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to the user input operation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0175] In the present embodiment, the indicator ED18 is configured to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to the simultaneous reception of the user input operations U1A and U1B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 is configured to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to the simultaneous pressing of the operation elements ED13A and ED13B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. However, the user input operation U1 is not limited to the simultaneous reception of the user input operations U1A and U1B or the simultaneous pressing of the operation elements ED13A and ED13B. The display ED18 may be configured to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to another user input operation, such asa long press on the actuator ED13A or ED13B or a long press on the electrical switch SW1A or SW1B.

[0176] The indicator ED18, for example, includes a light emitter configured to emit light. Examples of the light emitter include a light-emitting diode (LED). The indicator ED18 is configured to emit light to display the first information item(s) INF21 in response to the user input actuation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0177] In the present embodiment, the indicator ED18 is configured to emit light to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to simultaneously receiving the user input operations U1A and U1B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 is configured to emit light to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to simultaneously pressing the operation elements ED13A and ED13B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. However, the user input operation U1 is not limited to simultaneously receiving the user input operations U1A and U1B or simultaneously pressing the operation elements ED13A and ED13B. The display ED18 may be configured to emit light to display the first information INF21 in response to another user input, such asa long press of the actuator ED13A or ED13B or a long press of the electrical switch SW1A or SW1B.

[0178] In the present embodiment, the output unit ED17 includes the indicator ED18 configured to emit light to display the first information(s) INF21. However, the output unit ED17 may include structures other than the indicator ED18 instead of or in addition to the light emitter, if necessary or desired. Examples of the other structure include a speaker and a vibrator.

[0179] The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly receive remaining level information (INFL2) relating to the remaining level LV2 of the electrical power source RD5 of the electrical device RD. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly receive the remaining level information (INFL2) relating to the remaining level LV2 of the electrical power source RD5 of the transmission changer. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly receive the information (INFL2) relating to the remaining level LV2 of the electrical power source RD5 of the rear derailleur.

[0180] The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly receive the signal SG including the residual level information(s) INFL2 from the electrical device RD. The radio communicator WC11 is configured to wirelessly receive the signal SG transmitted wirelessly by the electrical device RD in response to the control signal CS1.

[0181] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to generate the signal SG including the residual level information(s) INFL2 in response to the control signal CS1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to generate the signal SG including the residual level information(s) INFL2 in response to the control signal CS1A or CS1B in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0182] In the case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2, the residual level information(s) INFL2 contain(s) the first information(s) INF21 indicating that the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. Therefore, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to generate the signal SG containing the first information(s) INF21 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to wirelessly transmit the signal SG in response to the control signal CS1.The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to wirelessly transmit the signal SG in response to the control signal CS1A or CS1B.

[0183] In the present embodiment, the first information(s) INF21 indicate(s) that the residual level LV2 is less than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to generate the signal SG containing the first information(s) INF21 in a case where the residual level LV2 is less than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2. However, the first information(s) INF21 may, if necessary or desired, also only indicate that the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may, if necessary or desired, be configured to perform a different process in a case where the residual level LV2 is equal to the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0184] The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the radio communicator WC11 to wirelessly receive the signal SG. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to detect the residual level information(s) INFL2 contained in the signal SG. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the radio communicator WC11 to wirelessly receive the signal SG. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to detect the first information(s) INF21 contained in the signal SG. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to detect the first information(s) INF21 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is less than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0185] The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the output unit ED17 to output the first information(s) INF21 in response to receiving the signal SG. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the indicator ED18 to display the first information(s) INF21 in response to receiving the signal SG. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the indicator ED18 to emit light in a case where the electronic control circuitry EC1 detects the first information(s) INF21 contained in the signal SG.

[0186] In the present embodiment, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the indicator ED18 to emit light in a first manner in a case where the electronic control circuitry EC1 detects the first information(s) INF21 contained in the signal SG. For example, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the indicator ED18 to emit light in a first color for a first period of time in a case where the electronic control circuitry EC1 detects the first information(s) INF21 in the signal SG. Thus, in this way, it is possible to inform the user that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 of the electrical device RD is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0187] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the output unit ED17 is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation U1, information indicating the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The output unit ED17 is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation U1, second information INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0188] The indicator ED18 is configured not to display the second information(s) INF22 in response to the user input U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 is configured not to emit light in response to the user input U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0189] The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21, in response to the control signal CS1, to generate the signal SG that is free of the residual level information(s) INFL2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21, in response to the control signal CS1A or CS1B, to generate the signal SG that is free of the residual level information(s) INFL2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0190] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to receive the signal SG free of the second information(s) INF22 and indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 after the user interface ED11 has received the user input U1. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to receive the signal SG free of the second information(s) INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 after the control signal CS1 has been transmitted. Therefore, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to detect that the signal SG is free of the residual level information(s) INFL2. The control circuitry EC1 is configured to detect that the signal SG is free of the second information(s) INF22.

[0191] The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured not to control the output unit ED17 to output the residual level information(s) INFL2 in a case where the signal SG is free of the residual level information(s) INFL2. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured not to control the output unit ED17 to output the second information(s) INF22 in a case where the signal SG is free of the second information(s) INF22. Therefore, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured not to control the output unit ED17 to output the second information(s) INF22 in response to the user input actuation U1. The control circuitry EC1 is configured not to control the display ED18 to display the second information(s) INF22 in response to receiving the signal SG.The control circuitry EC1 is configured to not control the indicator ED18 to emit light in the event that the electronic control circuitry EC1 detects the second information(s) INF22 contained in the signal SG. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the energy source ED15 of the actuating device ED1 while simultaneously informing the user that the residual level LV2 of the energy source RD5 of the electrical device RD is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0192] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 5, in the present embodiment and its modifications, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21, in response to the control signal CS1, to generate the signal SG free of the residual level information(s) INFL2 in the case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. As shown in Fig. However, as can be seen in Figure 6, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may be configured, if necessary or desired, to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to generate the signal SG including the residual level information(s) INFL2 in response to the control signal CS1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The additional electronic control circuitry EC2 may be configured, if necessary or desired, to control the additional radio communicator WC21 to generate the signal SG including the second information(s) INF22 in response to the control signal CS1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0193] In the Fig. In the modification illustrated in Figure 6, the output unit ED17 is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation U1, the second information(s) INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electric power source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 in the event that the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 is configured not to display the second information(s) INF22 in response to the user input operation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 is configured not to emit light in response to the user input operation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0194] As in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7, the output unit ED17 can be configured, if necessary or desired, to output, in response to the user input operation U1, the second information(s) INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 can be configured, if necessary or desired, to display the second information(s) INF22 in response to the user input operation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 can be configured, if necessary or desired, to emit light in response to the user input operation U1 in the case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0195] In the embodiment and modifications described in the Fig. 1 to 7, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 determines whether the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. As shown in the Fig. 8 and Fig. However, as can be seen in Figure 9, the electronic control circuitry EC1 may be configured to determine whether the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. Fig. 8 and Fig. In the modification illustrated in Figure 9, the additional electronic control circuitry EC2 is configured to control the additional radio communicator WC21, regardless of the relationship between the residual level LV2 and the residual level threshold LVT2, to generate the signal SG containing the residual level information(s) INFL2 and the residual level threshold LVT2 in response to the control signal CS1. The electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to compare the residual level information(s) INFL2 with the residual level threshold LVT2 after receiving the signal SG.

[0196] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the output unit ED17 to output the first information(s) INF21 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is lower than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2 in a case where the electrical energy source RD5 is lower than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2. Therefore, the output unit ED17 is configured to output, in response to the user input actuation U1, the first information(s) INF21 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is lower than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0197] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the electronic control circuitry EC1 is configured to control the output unit ED17 not to output the second information(s) INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 in the event that the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. Therefore, the output unit ED17 is configured to output, in response to the user input actuation U1, the second information(s) INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is lower than or equal to the residual level threshold LVT2 in a case where the residual level LV2 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0198] In the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 shown modification, as in Fig. As can be seen in Figure 10, the output unit ED17 can be configured, if necessary or desired, to output, in response to the user input operation U1, the second information(s) INF22 indicating that the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2 in the event that the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 can be configured, if necessary or desired, to display the second information(s) INF22 in response to the user input operation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2. The indicator ED18 can be configured, if necessary or desired, to emit light in response to the user input operation U1 in a case where the residual level LV2 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT2.

[0199] In the embodiment and modifications described in the Fig. 1 to 10, the output unit ED17 is configured to output the residual level information INFL2 of the electrical energy source RD5 in response to the user input U1. As shown in Fig. However, as can be seen in Figure 11, the output unit ED17 may be configured, if necessary or desired, to output, in response to the user input actuation U1, a first information item(s) INF11 indicating that the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 held by the energy source holder ED16 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT1 in the event that the residual level LV1 is lower than the residual level threshold LVT1. As shown in Fig. 12, the output unit ED17 may be configured, if necessary or desired, not to output, in response to the user input actuation U1, second information INF12 indicating that the residual level LV1 of the electrical energy source ED15 held by the energy source holder ED16 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT1 in a case where the residual level LV1 is higher than the residual level threshold LVT1. Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, the signal SG may be free of the residual level information(s) INFL2 relating to the residual level LV2 of the electrical energy source RD5 of the electrical device RD.

[0200] In the above embodiments and their modifications, the operating device ED1 communicates wirelessly with the electrical device RD via the radio communicator WC11 and the additional radio communicator WC21. However, the operating device ED1 can also be connected to the electrical device RD via an electrical cable if necessary or desired. In such modifications, the communicator circuitry WC1 includes a wired communicator configured to communicate with another wired communicator via an electrical cable. The additional communicator circuitry WC2 includes an additional wired communicator configured to communicate with another wired communicator via an electrical cable.

[0201] The structure of the actuator ED1 according to each embodiment and its modifications can be applied to each of the actuators ED2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED6, and ED7. The structure of the electrical device RD according to each embodiment and its modifications can be applied to each of the electrical devices FS, RS, DU, FB, RB, and AS. Thus, the description of the actuator ED1 can be used to describe each of the actuators ED2, ED3, ED4, ED5, ED6, and ED7 by replacing the reference number "ED1" with "ED2," "ED3," "ED4," "ED5," "ED6," or "ED7." The description of the electrical device RD can be used to describe each of the electrical devices FS, RS, DU, FB, RB, and AS by replacing the reference number "RD" with "FS," "RS," "DU," "FB," "RB," or "AS."

[0202] In the present application, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are to be understood as open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not preclude the presence of other unspecified features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning, e.g., the terms "comprising," "including," and their derivatives.

[0203] The terms “member,” “section,” “part,” “element,” “body,” and “structure,” when used in the singular, can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

[0204] The ordinal numbers mentioned in this application, such as "first" and "second," are merely identifiers and have no other meaning, such as a specific order or the like. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply the presence of a "second element," and the term "second element" itself does not imply the presence of a "first element."

[0205] The term "pair" as used herein may include the configuration in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other, in addition to the configuration in which the pair of elements have the same shapes or structures as each other.

[0206] The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” may be used interchangeably here.

[0207] The phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of a desired selection. For example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "both of two selections" when the number of selections is two. As another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single selection" or "any combination of equal to or more than two selections" when the number of selections is equal to or greater than three. For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) both B and C, (6) both A and C, and (7) all of A, B, and C.In other words, the phrase “at least one of A and B” in this disclosure does not mean “at least one of A and at least one of B”.

[0208] Finally, terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a reasonable departure from the modified term such that the final result is not substantially altered. All numerical values ​​described in the present application can be interpreted to include the terms "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately."

[0209] Of course, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. REFERENCE SYMBOL ED1 actuator ED12 basic structure ED17 output unit ED18 indicator EC1 Electronic control circuitry WC1 communicator circuitry RD electrical device WC11 radio communicator QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 18 / 455,649

[0001]

Claims

[1] Actuating device (ED1) of a muscle-powered vehicle, the actuating device (ED1) comprising: a base structure (ED12) mountable on the muscle-powered vehicle; an actuating element movable relative to the base structure (ED12) in response to a user input; and an output unit (ED17) configured to output, in response to the user input operation, first information indicating that a residual level of an electrical energy source is lower than a residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold, wherein the output unit (ED17) is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation, second information indicating that the residual level of the electrical energy source is higher than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold. [2] Actuating device (ED1) according to claim 1, in which the output unit (ED17) contains an indicator (ED18), the indicator (ED18) is arranged to display the first information(s) in response to the user input operation in the event that the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold, and the indicator (ED18) is arranged not to display the second information(s) in response to the user input actuation in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold. [3] Actuating device (ED1) according to claim 2, in which the indicator (ED18) is arranged to emit light in response to the user input operation to display the first information(s) in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold, and the indicator (ED18) is arranged not to emit light in response to the user input operation in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold. [4] An actuator (ED1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising electronic control circuitry (EC1) electrically connected to the output unit (ED17) for controlling the output unit (ED17) based on the user input operation and the residual level of the electrical energy source. [5] Actuating device (ED1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an energy source holder configured to hold the electrical energy source, wherein the output unit (ED17) is configured to output, in response to the user input operation, the first information indicating that the residual level of the electrical energy source held by the energy source holder is lower than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold, and the output unit (ED17) is configured not to output, in response to the user input operation, the second information(s) indicating that the residual level of the electric power source held by the power source holder is higher than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold. [6] Actuating device (ED1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a communicator circuit arrangement (WC1) arranged to transmit a control signal to an electrical device (RD) in response to the user input actuation. [7] Actuating device (ED1) according to claim 6, in which the communicator circuit arrangement (WC1) contains a radio communicator (WC11), and the radio communicator (WC11) is configured to wirelessly transmit the control signal to the electrical device (RD) in response to the user input operation. [8] Actuating device (ED1) according to claim 7, in which the electrical device (RD) contains the electrical energy source, and the radio communicator (WC11) is arranged to wirelessly receive residual level information regarding the residual level of the electrical energy source of the electrical device (RD). [9] An actuating device (ED1) of a muscle-powered vehicle, the actuating device (ED1) comprising: a base structure (ED12) mountable on the muscle-powered vehicle; an actuator movable relative to the base structure (ED12) in response to a user input; a radio communicator (WC11) configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal to an electrical device (RD) in response to the user input operation, wherein the radio communicator (WC11) is configured to wirelessly receive residual level information regarding a residual level of an electrical energy source of the electrical device (RD); and an output unit (ED17) configured to output information indicating the remaining level of the electrical energy source in response to the user input operation. [10] The operating device (ED1) according to claim 9, wherein the output unit (ED17) is arranged to output, in response to the user input operation, first information indicating that the residual level of the electric power source is lower than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is lower than the residual level threshold. [11] An operating device (ED1) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the output unit (ED17) is arranged to output, in response to the user input operation, second information indicating that the residual level of the electric power source is higher than the residual level threshold in a case where the residual level is higher than the residual level threshold. [12] Actuating device (ED1) according to one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the radio communicator (WC11) is arranged to wirelessly receive a signal including the residual level information(s) from the electrical device (RD). [13] An actuating device (ED1) according to claim 12, wherein the radio communicator (WC11) is arranged to wirelessly receive the signal wirelessly transmitted by the electrical device (RD) in response to the control signal. [14] Actuating device (ED1) according to one of claims 8 to 13, in which the electrical device (RD) includes a gear changer with the electrical energy source and the radio communicator (WC11) is configured to wirelessly receive the residual level information(s) of the gear changer's electrical energy source. [15] Actuating device (ED1) according to claim 14, in which the gear changer includes a rear derailleur with the electrical energy source and the radio communicator (WC11) is configured to wirelessly receive the residual level information(s) relating to the electrical energy source of the rear derailleur.

Images