Bicycle control system

Abstract

Bicycle control system comprising a first wireless communication unit mounted on a hub and / or wheel axle or crank unit or rear wheel gear shifting mechanism of the bicycle; and a wireless mobile device, such as a smartphone; wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or acknowledge a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device in response to a power-on and / or power-off operation.

Description

Area

[0001] The invention relates to a control system for muscle-powered vehicles or light electric vehicles, such as bicycles. background

[0002] Bicycle control systems, such as wireless gear shifting systems, are known per se, for example, for shifting gears on a bicycle without using a wired connection between a gear control device, usually mounted on a handlebar, and a gear shifting device, also called a gearshifting device, usually located on a transmission, such as a derailleur. Typically, a pairing between the gear control device and the gear shifting device is required to enable wireless communication.

[0003] EP 1 475 302 A1 discloses a bicycle gear shifting system comprising a rear derailleur and a front derailleur, the latter containing a motor to move a chain axially to shift gears. The system also includes an electronic control unit for generating a signal that requests chain movement. Information transmission between the various components can be wireless, for example, using the Bluetooth® protocol. Pairing methods for the Bluetooth® protocol, such as using a pairing button on one or both of the devices to be paired, are known per se.

[0004] US Patent 9,540,071 B2 discloses a wireless control system for a bicycle, comprising at least one shifting unit that generates an input signal when actuated and a master control unit that transmits a shift signal in response to the input signal. A rear derailleur and a front derailleur are provided, each with a shifting control unit. The shifting control unit receives the shift signal from the master control unit and controls the derailleur accordingly. The derailleur has a button that, when actuated, causes the derailleur to enter a pairing mode.

[0005] Instead of or in addition to pairing a first wireless communication unit of the bicycle with a second wireless communication unit of the bicycle, it may also be desirable to pair a wireless communication unit of the bicycle with a wireless communication unit that is located outside the bicycle.

[0006] However, current pairing methods for electronic bicycle gear shifting systems are often not inexpensive or user-friendly enough for use in a factory, at a dealership, or by general consumers. Furthermore, instead of or in addition to pairing a first wireless communication unit of the bicycle with a second wireless communication unit, it may also be desirable to pair a wireless communication unit of the bicycle with a wireless communication unit located outside the bicycle. Summary

[0007] One object of the invention is to improve the usability of a control system for a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle, particularly with regard to the pairing of its wireless devices. A further object is to provide an alternative pairing method.

[0008] According to one aspect, a control system is provided for a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle. This control system for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here simply as the bicycle control system or the control system. The control system includes a first wireless communication unit. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a hub and / or wheel axle of the vehicle. The hub can have a gearbox with a plurality of selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a crank unit of the bicycle. The crank unit can have a gearbox with a plurality of selectable gear ratios.The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on the bicycle's rear derailleur mechanism. The rear derailleur mechanism can be configured to position a chain relative to a plurality of different sprockets connected to the bicycle's rear wheel. The control system includes a wireless mobile device. The first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device in response to a power-on and / or power-off operation. To initiate or confirm the wireless pairing, the first wireless communication unit can, for example, enter an advertising or scanning mode. In this way, the power-on operation can initiate or confirm the wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device for the first wireless communication unit.Alternatively or additionally, the shutdown process for the first wireless communication unit can initiate or confirm wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device.

[0009] The first wireless communication unit can be configured to enter a powered-on state in response to the power-on operation before initiating or confirming wireless pairing. The first wireless communication unit can be configured to enter a powered-off state in response to the power-off operation after initiating or confirming wireless pairing.

[0010] The wireless mobile device can be an external wireless mobile device located outside the bicycle. It can be a general-purpose wireless mobile device or a wireless telecommunications device. The external wireless mobile device can be configured so that only a small percentage of its functionality, such as 10 percent or less, is directly related to controlling the bicycle. The remaining functionality of the wireless mobile device can include, for example, social media, news media, playing and / or streaming multimedia (such as audio and / or video files), gaming, internet browsing, navigation, online shopping, or similar activities. The wireless mobile device can be, for example, a smartphone, smartwatch, smart helmet, tablet computer, or PC.The external wireless mobile device is not mechanically attached to the bicycle, or at least not in such a way that it can be easily removed from the bicycle, for example, without the use of tools. If it is attached to the bicycle in a removable manner, the external wireless mobile device is generally not considered to remain mechanically attached to the bicycle if the bicycle is not in use by an average user for at least a significant period of time, such as more than one hour.

[0011] Therefore, wireless pairing of the first wireless communication unit mounted on the bicycle with the wireless mobile device can be achieved by switching the first wireless communication unit on and / or off. This provides a convenient method of wireless pairing.

[0012] The wireless mobile device can be used, for example, to monitor a bicycle parameter, such as a sensor like a speed sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, tilt sensor, rotational speed sensor (e.g., of a wheel or crank axle), torque sensor, GPS receiver, gear shift status sensor, or similar. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless mobile device can be used to program bicycle settings, such as automatic gear shift parameters. Pairing may be required between the wireless mobile device and, for example, a gear shifter to enable wireless communication between the two.

[0013] Wireless communication between the first wireless communication unit and the wireless mobile device can be achieved, for example, via Bluetooth® or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

[0014] Optionally, the bicycle control system has an on / off switch. The power-on and / or power-off process may involve pressing the on / off switch. The first wireless communication unit can be configured to switch to the power-on state in response to a power-on operation performed at the on / off switch. The first wireless communication unit can also be configured to switch to the power-off state in response to a power-off operation performed at the on / off switch. Optionally, the first wireless communication unit has the on / off switch. Therefore, pressing the on / off switch of the first wireless communication unit can cause the first wireless communication unit to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device.

[0015] Optionally, the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or confirm wireless pairing in response to the on / off switch being pressed for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold.Therefore, the first wireless communication unit may be capable of distinguishing between switching to the on state when the duration for which the on / off switch is pressed is shorter than the threshold to turn on the first wireless communication unit, without causing the first wireless communication unit to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device, and switching to the on state when the duration for which the on / off switch is pressed exceeds the threshold to turn on the first wireless communication unit, causing the first wireless communication unit to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device.The first wireless communication unit may also be capable of distinguishing between switching to the off state when the duration for which the on / off switch is pressed is shorter than the threshold to switch off the first wireless communication unit without causing the first wireless communication unit to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device, and switching to the off state when the duration for which the on / off switch is pressed exceeds the threshold to switch off the first wireless communication unit and cause the first wireless communication unit to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device.

[0016] The bicycle control system may include a battery. The power-on process may involve electrically connecting the first wireless communication unit to the battery. The power-off process may involve electrically disconnecting the first wireless communication unit from the battery. Therefore, the first wireless communication unit may be configured to switch to the power-on state in response to being electrically connected to the battery, and / or to switch to the power-off state in response to being electrically disconnected from the battery. Therefore, wireless pairing can be initiated or confirmed by connecting or disconnecting the battery from the first wireless communication unit.Wireless pairing can be initiated or confirmed, for example, by disconnecting the battery from the first wireless communication unit, followed by connecting the battery to the first wireless communication unit.

[0017] Optionally, the bicycle control system includes a connector for power and / or communication between the battery and the first wireless communication device. The first wireless communication device can be configured to initiate or confirm wireless pairing in response to the first wireless communication device being connected to or disconnected from the battery via the connector. The battery can be located on and / or within the bicycle frame. For example, the battery could be the traction battery of an e-bike. Alternatively or additionally, the battery can be located on and / or within the hub and / or wheel axle. For example, the battery can be located on and / or within a housing that is connected to the hub and / or wheel axle.The first wireless communication unit may include an auxiliary battery to power the first wireless communication unit during wireless pairing after the power-off process, for example, after disconnecting the first wireless communication unit from the battery.

[0018] It is understood that the first wireless communication unit can also be configured to communicate with a second wireless communication unit. The first wireless communication unit can, for example, be configured to control a bicycle's gear system, such as an internal gear hub with multiple selectable gear ratios, a crankset with multiple selectable gear ratios, and / or the rear derailleur mechanism. For this purpose, the first wireless communication unit can communicate with a controller of an electric actuator for the gear system. The second wireless communication unit can, for example, be assigned to a gear shifting device mounted on the bicycle's handlebars.The gearshift device can be configured to receive user input, for example from a button, lever, or the like, representing a desired change in the gear ratio. The second wireless communication unit can wirelessly transmit a command to change the gear ratio to the first wireless communication unit. The first and second wireless communication units can be paired, for example, as described in PCT / EP 2023 / 076787, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0019] The first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or acknowledge wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device in response to the power-on and / or power-off process. When paired with the first wireless communication unit, the wireless mobile device can send a command to the second wireless communication unit to initiate pairing with the first. Alternatively, when paired with the first wireless communication unit, the wireless mobile device can send a command to the first wireless communication unit to initiate pairing with the second wireless communication unit. The wireless mobile device can be configured to send the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app.

[0020] One aspect is a control system for a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle. This control system for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here simply as the bicycle control system or the control system. The bicycle control system includes a first wireless communication unit. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a hub and / or wheel axle of the bicycle. The hub can have a gearbox with a number of selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit can also be mounted on a crank unit of the bicycle. The crank unit can have a gearbox with a number of selectable gear ratios.The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on the bicycle's rear derailleur mechanism. The rear derailleur mechanism can be configured to position a chain relative to a plurality of different sprockets connected to the bicycle's rear wheel. The control system includes a communication unit mounted on the bicycle's frame. The control system has a wired connection between the communication unit and the first wireless communication unit. The communication unit is configured to transmit a pairing initiation or confirmation signal to the first wireless communication unit via the wired connection.The first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired connection.

[0021] The pairing initiation or confirmation signal can be sent via a protocol such as CAN (Controller Area Network), CAN FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Datarate), UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), FlexRay, MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport), K-Line or Ethernet.

[0022] Optionally, the communication unit can be configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a user action performed on the communication unit. This user action could, for example, include pressing a button on the communication unit.

[0023] Optionally, the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or confirm wireless pairing with a wireless mobile device or a second wireless communication unit connected to the bicycle in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired connection. Therefore, receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired connection can initiate the first wireless communication unit pairing with the wireless mobile device. The wireless mobile device can be the wireless mobile device discussed above. Alternatively, receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired connection can initiate the first wireless communication unit pairing with the second wireless communication unit.The second wireless communication unit could, for example, be the second wireless communication unit discussed above.

[0024] When paired with the first wireless communication unit, the wireless mobile device can send a command to the second wireless communication unit to initiate pairing with the first. Alternatively, when paired with the first wireless communication unit, the wireless mobile device can send a command to the first wireless communication unit to initiate pairing with the second. The wireless mobile device can be configured to send the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app. The first and second wireless communication units can be paired, for example, in the manner described in PCT / EP 2023 / 076787, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0025] Optionally, the communication unit is configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a power-on and / or power-off operation at the communication unit. In this way, a power-on operation at the communication unit can trigger the transmission of the pairing initiation or confirmation signal. Alternatively or additionally, a power-off operation at the communication unit can trigger the transmission of the pairing initiation or confirmation signal.

[0026] The communication unit can be configured to switch to an on state before transmitting the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal in response to the power-on process. The communication unit can be configured to switch to an off state after transmitting the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal in response to the power-off process. Optionally, the communication unit has an on / off switch. The power-on and / or power-off process can involve actuating the on / off switch. The communication unit can be configured to switch to the on state in response to a power-on operation performed at the on / off switch. The communication unit can be configured to switch to the off state in response to a power-off operation performed at the on / off switch. The on / off switch can be located on the communication unit.The on / off switch can be located on the handlebars or on the frame of the bicycle.

[0027] The communication unit can be configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to the on / off switch being pressed for a period exceeding a predetermined threshold. Optionally, the communication unit is powered by a battery. The battery can be located on and / or within the bicycle frame. For example, the battery could be the traction battery of an e-bike. The power-on process can involve electrically connecting the communication unit to the battery. The power-off process can involve electrically disconnecting the communication unit from the battery.

[0028] According to one aspect, a method is provided for pairing a first wireless communication unit of a bicycle and a wireless mobile device of a control system of a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle. The control system for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here as the bicycle control system or the control system. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a hub and / or a wheel axle of the bicycle. The hub can include a gearbox with a plurality of different selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a crank unit of the bicycle. The crank unit can include a gearbox with a plurality of different selectable gear ratios.The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on the bicycle's rear derailleur mechanism. The rear derailleur mechanism can be configured to position a chain relative to a plurality of different sprockets connected to the bicycle's rear wheel. The procedure involves initiating or confirming a wireless pairing of the first wireless communication unit with the wireless mobile device by performing a power-on and / or power-off operation on the first wireless communication unit. For example, in response to the power-on and / or power-off operation, the first wireless communication unit can switch to an advertising mode or a scanning mode.

[0029] The first wireless communication unit can be the first wireless communication unit as discussed above. The wireless mobile device can be the wireless mobile device as discussed above.

[0030] Wireless communication between the first wireless communication unit and the wireless mobile device can be achieved, for example, via Bluetooth® or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

[0031] The power-on and / or power-off process may involve actuating the on / off switch. Optionally, the method includes switching the first wireless communication unit to the power-on state in response to a power-on operation initiated at the on / off switch of the bicycle control system. Optionally, the method includes switching the first wireless communication unit to the power-off state in response to a power-off operation initiated at the on / off switch of the bicycle control system. Optionally, the first wireless communication unit includes the on / off switch.

[0032] Optionally, the procedure includes initiating or confirming wireless pairing in response to the on / off switch being pressed for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0033] The power-on and / or power-off process may involve connecting / disconnecting the first communication unit from the battery or from it. Alternatively, the process may involve switching the first wireless communication unit to the power-on / power-off state in response to the wireless communication unit being electrically connected to or disconnected from the battery.

[0034] Optionally, the procedure includes initiating or confirming wireless pairing in response to the first wireless communication unit being connected to or disconnected from the battery via a connector. The battery can be located on and / or within the bicycle frame. For example, the battery could be the traction battery of an e-bike. Alternatively, the battery can be located on and / or within the hub and / or wheel axle. For example, the battery can be located on and / or within a housing that is connected to the hub and / or wheel axle.

[0035] The first wireless communication unit may have an auxiliary battery to supply electrical power to the first wireless communication unit during wireless pairing after the power-off process, for example, after disconnecting the first wireless communication unit from the battery.

[0036] Optionally, the method involves the wireless mobile device, when paired with the first wireless communication unit, sending a command to a second wireless communication unit to pair with the first. Alternatively, the method can involve the wireless mobile device, when paired with the first wireless communication unit, sending a command to the first wireless communication unit to pair with the second wireless communication unit. The wireless mobile device can send the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app. The second wireless communication unit can be the second wireless communication unit as discussed above.

[0037] According to one aspect, a method for pairing a first wireless communication unit with a control system of a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle, is provided. The control system for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here as the bicycle control system or the control system. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a hub and / or a wheel axle of the bicycle. The hub can include a gearbox with a plurality of different selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on a crank unit of the bicycle. The crank unit can include a gearbox with a plurality of different selectable gear ratios.The first wireless communication unit can be mounted on the bicycle's rear derailleur mechanism. The rear derailleur mechanism can be configured to position a chain relative to a plurality of different sprockets connected to the bicycle's rear wheel. The control system includes a communication unit mounted on the bicycle's frame. The control system includes a wired connection between the communication unit and the first wireless communication unit. The procedure involves the communication unit transmitting a pairing initiation or confirmation signal to the first wireless communication unit via the wired connection.The procedure involves the first wireless communication unit initiating or acknowledging a wireless pairing in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired link.

[0038] The pairing initiation or confirmation signal can be sent via a protocol such as CAN (Controller Area Network), CAN FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Datarate), UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), FlexRay, MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport), K-Line or Ethernet.

[0039] Alternatively, the procedure involves the first wireless communication unit initiating or confirming wireless pairing with a wireless mobile device or a second wireless communication unit connected to the bicycle, in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired connection. The second wireless communication unit could, for example, be the second wireless communication unit discussed above.

[0040] The method can involve the wireless mobile device, when paired with the first wireless communication unit, sending a command to the second wireless communication unit to initiate pairing with the first. Alternatively, the method can involve the wireless mobile device, when paired with the first wireless communication unit, sending a command to the first wireless communication unit to initiate pairing with the second wireless communication unit. The method can involve the wireless mobile device sending the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app.

[0041] Optionally, the procedure involves the communication unit transmitting the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a user action performed on the communication unit. The user action could, for example, be pressing a button on the communication unit.

[0042] Optionally, the procedure includes the communication unit transmitting the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a switch-on and / or switch-off operation taking place at the communication unit.

[0043] The power-on and / or power-off process may involve actuating an on / off switch. The on / off switch may be located on the communication unit, on the handlebars, or on the bicycle frame. Optionally, the method includes the communication unit switching to the on or off state in response to a power-on or power-off operation at the communication unit's on / off switch. The method may also include the communication unit transmitting the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal in response to the on / off switch being actuated for a period exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0044] Optionally, the communication unit is powered by a battery. The power-on and / or power-off process can involve connecting the first wireless communication unit to the battery or disconnecting it. The battery can be located on and / or inside the bicycle frame. For example, the battery could be the traction battery of an e-bike.

[0045] Optionally, the procedure involves the communication unit switching between on / off states by connecting it to the battery via a connector and disconnecting it from the battery via the same connector. The communication unit may include an auxiliary battery to supply power to the first wireless communication unit during wireless pairing after the power-off process, for example, after the first wireless communication unit has been disconnected from the battery.

[0046] It is evident that the aspects and options revealed here can be combined in various ways. For example, features described as relating to a process can also be applied to a bicycle control system, and vice versa. Brief description of the drawings

[0047] The present invention will now be further described using examples of embodiments and drawings. The drawings are schematic and show only examples. In the drawings, corresponding elements have been provided with appropriate reference numerals. They show: the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B Schematic examples of a control system for a muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle; the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B Schematic examples of a control system for a muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle; Fig. 3 an exemplary flowchart of a process; Fig. 4. An exemplary flowchart of a process; and Fig. 5. An example of a bicycle. Detailed description

[0048] The Fig. 1A and Fig. Figure 1B shows schematic examples of a control system 1 for a muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle, 1000. The control system 1 for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here as the bicycle control system 1 or simply the control system 1. The bicycle control system 1 has a first wireless communication unit 10. The first wireless communication unit 10 can be mounted on a hub 100 and / or a wheel axle 101 of the bicycle 1000. The hub 100 can have a gearbox 104 that has a plurality of different selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit 10 can be mounted on a crank unit 200 of the bicycle 1000. The crank unit 200 can include a gearbox 202 that has a plurality of different selectable gear ratios.The first wireless communication unit 10 can be mounted on a rear wheel gear shifting mechanism 300 of the bicycle 1000. The rear wheel gear shifting mechanism 300 can be configured to position a chain 304 relative to a plurality of different sprockets 306 connected to a rear wheel 1002 of the bicycle 1000. It is evident that the bicycle can have any one or more of the hub gear 102, the crank gear 202, and the rear wheel gear shifting mechanism 300. The first wireless communication unit 10 can, for example, be mounted on any one of the hub gear 102, the crank gear 202, and the rear wheel gear shifting mechanism 300.

[0049] Control system 1 includes a wireless mobile device 30. Here, the wireless mobile device is an external wireless mobile device that is external to the bicycle 1000. In this example, the wireless mobile device 30 is a general-purpose wireless mobile device, specifically a wireless telecommunications device. The general-purpose wireless mobile device can be configured so that only a small percentage of its functionality, such as 10 percent or less, is directly related to controlling the bicycle. The remaining functionality of the wireless mobile device can then be related to, for example, social media, news media, playback and / or streaming of multimedia (such as audio and / or video files), games, web browsing, navigation, online shopping, or the like. In this example, the wireless mobile device 30 is a smartphone.Alternatively, the wireless mobile device could also be, for example, a smartwatch, a smart helmet, a tablet computer, or a PC. It is understandable that the wireless mobile device 30 in the present example is not mechanically connected to the bicycle. The wireless mobile device 30, especially the smartphone, can be mechanically connected to the bicycle in such a way that it can be easily removed from the bicycle, for example, without the use of tools. Dedicated mounts that use, for example, clamping or clip mechanisms are known for the removable mechanical connection of a smartphone to a bicycle. Generally, users do not leave the wireless mobile device 30, such as the smartphone, mechanically connected to the bicycle when the bicycle is not in use, especially if the bicycle is not in use for an extended period, such as longer than an hour.

[0050] The wireless mobile device 30 can be used, for example, to access a parameter of the bicycle 1000, such as a sensor on the bicycle, like a speed sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, tilt sensor, rotational speed sensor (such as on a wheel or crank axle of the bicycle), torque sensor, GPS receiver, gear position sensor, or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the wireless mobile device can be used to program settings of the bicycle 1000, such as automatic gear shifting parameters.

[0051] The first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30 in response to a power-on operation and / or a power-off operation of the first wireless communication unit 10. To initiate or confirm the wireless pairing, the first wireless communication unit 10 can, for example, switch to an advertising mode or a scanning mode. Therefore, wireless pairing of the first wireless communication unit 10, which is mounted on the bicycle 1000, with the wireless mobile device can be achieved by the first wireless communication unit 10 switching to a power-on state in response to the power-on operation.Alternatively or additionally, wireless pairing of the first wireless communication unit 10, mounted on the bicycle 1000, with the wireless mobile device 30 can be achieved by the first wireless communication unit 10 switching to a power-off state in response to the power-off process. This provides a convenient method of wireless pairing. In this example, wireless communication between the first wireless communication unit 10 and the wireless mobile device 30 takes place via Bluetooth® or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

[0052] In the example of Fig. In this example, the bicycle control system 1A has an on / off switch 40. The first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to switch to the on state in response to an on / off switch 40 being activated. Similarly, the first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to switch to the off state in response to an off / unactivated switch 40 being activated. Therefore, actuating the on / off switch 40 of the first wireless communication unit 10 can cause the first wireless communication unit to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device.It is evident that the on / off switch 40 for putting the first wireless communication unit into the on and / or off state can also be located at a different location on the bicycle.

[0053] In one example, the first wireless communication unit 10 can be configured to initiate wireless pairing in response to the on / off switch 40 being operated for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold.Therefore, the first wireless communication unit 10 can be capable of distinguishing between a switch-on state when the period for which the on / off switch 40 is pressed is less than the threshold to switch on the first wireless communication unit 10 without the first wireless communication unit 10 initiating or confirming wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30, and a switch-on state when the period for which the on / off switch 40 is pressed exceeds the threshold to switch on the first wireless communication unit 10 and cause the first wireless communication unit 10 to initiate or confirm wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30.Similarly, the first wireless communication unit 10 may be capable of distinguishing between a switch-off state when the period for which the on / off switch 40 is operated is less than the threshold to switch off the first wireless communication unit 10 without causing the first wireless communication unit 10 to initiate or confirm wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30, and a switch-off state when the period for which the on / off switch 40 is operated exceeds the threshold to switch off the first wireless communication unit 10 and cause the first wireless communication unit 10 to initiate or confirm wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30.

[0054] In the example of Fig. 1B, the first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to switch to the on state in response to the power-on operation, in which the wireless communication unit 10 is electrically connected to a battery 50, and / or to switch to the off state in response to the power-off operation, in which the wireless communication unit 10 is electrically disconnected from the battery 50. Therefore, wireless pairing can be initiated or confirmed by connecting the battery 50 to the first wireless communication unit 10. For example, wireless pairing can be initiated or confirmed by disconnecting the battery 50 from the first wireless communication unit 10 followed by reconnecting the battery 50 to the first wireless communication unit 10. Again with reference to Fig. 1A It is noted that the on / off switch 40 may also be located on the battery 50 or in a connecting cable between the battery 50 and the first wireless communication unit 10.

[0055] In the example of Fig. In Figure 1B, the bicycle control system 1 has a connector 60 for power and / or communication between the battery 50 and the first wireless communication device 10. In this example, the first wireless communication device 10 is configured to initiate or acknowledge wireless pairing in response to the connection of the first wireless communication device 10 to the battery 50 via the connector 60, and / or to initiate or acknowledge wireless pairing in response to the disconnection of the first wireless communication device 10 from the battery 50 via the connector 60. In one example, the battery 50 may be located on and / or within the frame of the bicycle 1000. The battery 50 may, for example, be a traction battery of an e-bike. The traction battery may be arranged to power an electric traction motor of the e-bike.Alternatively, the battery 50 can be arranged on and / or in the hub 100 and / or the wheel axle 101. The battery 50 can, for example, be arranged on and / or in a housing that is connected to the hub 100 and / or the wheel axle 101.

[0056] In the examples of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B The first wireless communication unit 10 can be configured to switch to the on state in response to the power-on operation before the wireless pairing is initiated or confirmed. The first wireless communication unit 10 can be configured to switch to the off state in response to the power-off operation after the wireless pairing is initiated or confirmed. The first wireless communication unit 10 can include an auxiliary battery 52 to supply power to the first wireless communication unit 10 during wireless pairing after the power-off operation, for example, after the first wireless communication unit 10 is disconnected from the battery 50. The auxiliary battery 52 can be integrated into the first wireless communication unit 10.

[0057] In the examples of Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B The first wireless communication unit 10 is also configured to communicate with a second wireless communication unit 20, although this is not always necessary. The first wireless communication unit 10 can, for example, be configured to control the bicycle's transmission 1100, such as the hub gear 102, which has multiple selectable gear ratios, the crank gear 202, which also has multiple selectable gear ratios, and / or the rear wheel gear shifting mechanism 300. For this purpose, the first wireless communication unit 10 can communicate with a controller 12 and / or an electric actuator 14 of the transmission 1100. In these examples, the second wireless communication unit 20 is assigned to a gear shifting device 400, which is mounted, for example, on the handlebars of the bicycle 1000.The gearshift device 400 can be configured to receive user input, for example from a button, lever, or the like, representing a desired change in the gear ratio of the gearshift 1100. The second wireless communication unit 20 is configured to wirelessly transmit a command to change the gear ratio of the gearshift 1100 to the first wireless communication unit 10. The first wireless communication unit 10 and the second wireless communication unit 20 can be paired, for example, as described in PCT / EP 2023 / 076787, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0058] In one example, the first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to initiate wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30 in response to the power-on and / or power-off operation. When paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, the wireless mobile device 30 can send a command to the second wireless communication unit 20 to initiate pairing with the first wireless communication unit 10. Alternatively, when paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, the wireless mobile device 30 can send a command to the first wireless communication unit 10 to initiate pairing with the second wireless communication unit 20. The wireless mobile device 30 can be configured to send the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app running on the wireless mobile device 30.

[0059] The Fig. 2A and Fig. Figure 2B shows schematic examples of a control system 1 for a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle. The control system 1 for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here simply as the bicycle control system 1 or the control system 1. In many respects, the control system 1 is the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B similar to control system 1 of the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B. The bicycle control system 1 comprises a first wireless communication unit 10. The first wireless communication unit 10 can be mounted on a hub 100 and / or a wheel axle 101 of the bicycle 1000. The hub 100 can include a gearbox 102 having a plurality of different selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit 10 can be mounted on a crank unit 200 of the bicycle 1000. The crank unit 200 can include a gearbox 202 having a plurality of different selectable gear ratios. The first wireless communication unit 10 can be mounted on a rear wheel shifting mechanism 300 of the bicycle 1000. The rear wheel shifting mechanism 300 can be configured to position a chain 304 relative to a plurality of different sprockets 306 connected to a rear wheel 1002 of the bicycle 1000.

[0060] Control system 1 includes a communication unit 70, which is mounted on the bicycle frame. The communication unit 70 can, for example, be part of a crank unit. The communication unit 70 can, for example, be part of an electric traction motor unit. The communication unit 70 can, for example, be part of an electric traction mid-drive motor unit. The communication unit 70 can, for example, be part of an e-bike control unit.

[0061] The control system 1 has a wired connection 71 between the communication unit 70 and the first wireless communication unit 10. In these examples, the communication unit 70 is configured to transmit a pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal to the first wireless communication unit 10 via the wired connection 71. The first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to initiate or acknowledge wireless pairing in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit 70 via the wired connection 71. For example, the communication unit 70 may be configured to transmit the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal in response to a user action performed on the communication unit 70.The user action can, for example, include pressing a button 74 on the communication unit 70 or associated with it (such as being communicatively connected to it).

[0062] In a first example, the first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to initiate or confirm wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device 30 in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit 70 via the wired connection 71. The wireless mobile device 30 can be, for example, the wireless mobile device 30 as identified by the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B was discussed. In a second example, the first wireless communication unit 10 is configured to initiate or confirm wireless pairing with the second wireless communication unit 20, which is connected to the bicycle 1000, in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit 70 via the wired connection 71. The second wireless communication unit 20 could, for example, be the second wireless communication unit 20 that is connected to the bicycle 1000 based on the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B was discussed.

[0063] In this example, the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal is sent over the wired connection using a CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol. However, it is also possible to use other protocols, such as CAN FD (Controller Area Network Flexible Datarate), UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), FlexRay, MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport), K-Line, or Ethernet, but these are not the only options.

[0064] When paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, the wireless mobile device 30 can send a command to the second wireless communication unit 20 to initiate pairing with the first wireless communication unit 10. Alternatively, when paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, the wireless mobile device 30 can send a command to the first wireless communication unit 10 to initiate pairing with the second wireless communication unit 20. The wireless mobile device 30 can be configured to send the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app. The first wireless communication unit 10 and the second wireless communication unit 20 can be paired, for example, as described in PCT / EP 2023 / 076787, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0065] Optionally, the communication unit 70 is configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a power-on and / or power-off operation performed on the communication unit 70. In the example of Fig. In 2A, the communication unit 70 has an on / off switch 72 and is configured to switch to the on state in response to the on / off switch 72 being switched on. Similarly, the communication unit 70 can be configured to switch to the off state in response to the on / off switch 72 being switched off. It is evident that the on / off switch can also be located elsewhere on the vehicle, such as on a steering column or the vehicle frame. In one example, the communication unit 70 can be configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to the on / off switch 72 being actuated for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold.Therefore, the communication unit 70 can be capable of distinguishing between a change to the on state when the period for which the on / off switch 72 is actuated is less than the threshold to switch on the communication unit 70 without causing the communication unit 70 to transmit the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal, and a change to the on state when the period for which the on / off switch 72 is actuated exceeds the threshold to switch on the communication unit 70 and cause the communication unit 70 to transmit the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal.Similarly, the communication unit 70 may be capable of distinguishing between a change to the off state when the period for which the on / off switch 72 is actuated is less than the threshold to switch off the communication unit 70 without causing the communication unit 70 to transmit the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal, and a change to the off state when the period for which the on / off switch 72 is actuated exceeds the threshold to switch off the communication unit 70 and cause the communication unit 70 to transmit the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal.

[0066] In one example, the communication unit 70 is powered by a battery 50. The battery can be located on and / or inside the bicycle frame. The battery could, for example, be the traction battery of an e-bike.

[0067] In the example of Fig. 2B The communication unit 70 is configured to switch to the on state in response to the communication unit 70 being electrically connected to a battery 75 and / or to switch to the off state in response to the communication unit 70 being electrically disconnected from the battery 75. Therefore, wireless pairing can be initiated by connecting the battery 75 to the communication unit 70 and / or disconnecting the battery 75 from the communication unit 70. For example, wireless pairing can be initiated by disconnecting the battery 75 from the communication unit 70, followed by connecting the battery 75 to the communication unit 70. Again with reference to Fig. 1A notes that the on / off switch 72 can also be located on the battery 75 or in a connecting cable between the battery 75 and the communication unit 70. For example, the battery 75 can be located on and / or in the frame of the bicycle 1000. The battery 75 could, for example, be a traction battery of an e-bike. Alternatively or additionally, the battery 75 can be located on and / or in the communication unit 70. The battery 75 can be the same battery as the battery 50, which is connected to the first wireless communication unit 10.

[0068] In the example of Fig. In 2B, the bicycle control system 1 has a connector 80 for power and / or communication between the battery 75 and the communication unit 70. In this example, the communication unit 70 is configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to the communication unit 70 being connected to the battery 75 via the connector 80.

[0069] In the examples of Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B The communication unit 70 can be configured to switch to the power-on state in response to the power-on process before the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal is transmitted. The communication unit 70 can be configured to switch to the power-off state in response to the power-off process after the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal is transmitted. The communication unit 70 can have an auxiliary battery 76 to supply electrical power to the communication unit 70 during wireless pairing after the power-off process, for example, after the communication unit 70 is disconnected from the battery 75. The auxiliary battery 76 can be integrated into the communication unit 70.

[0070] Fig. Figure 3 shows an example of a flowchart of a method 500 for pairing a first wireless communication unit 10 of a bicycle 1000 with a wireless mobile device 30 of a control system 1 for a muscle-powered vehicle or a light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle. The control system for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here as the bicycle control system or the control system. It is evident that the method 500 can refer to the control system 1, as shown by the Fig. 1A and Fig. 1B was described. Optional steps are shown in dashed boxes. Procedure 500 involves initiating or acknowledging 550 a wireless pairing of the first wireless communication unit 10 with the wireless mobile device 30 in response to a power-on and / or power-off operation 505 on the first wireless communication unit 10. The first wireless communication unit 10 may then transition to a power-on state and / or a power-off state 510. For example, in response to transitioning to the power-on state and / or the power-off state, the first wireless communication unit 10 may switch to an advertising mode or a scanning mode.

[0071] Optionally, the procedure 500 includes switching the first wireless communication unit 10 to the on state in response to a switch-on operation 520 performed at an on-off switch of the bicycle control system and / or switching the first wireless communication unit 10 to the off state in response to a switch-off operation 520 performed at the on-off switch of the bicycle control system.

[0072] Optionally, the procedure includes determining whether the on / off switch has been operated for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold, and initiating wireless pairing in response to the on / off switch being operated for a period of time exceeding the predetermined threshold.

[0073] Optionally, the procedure includes switching the first wireless communication unit 10 to the on state in response to the first wireless communication unit 10 being electrically connected to a battery 540, for example via a connector, or switching the first wireless communication unit 10 to the off state in response to the first wireless communication unit 10 being electrically disconnected from the battery 540, for example via a connector.

[0074] Optionally, the method involves the wireless mobile device 30, when paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, sending a command to the second wireless communication unit 20 560 to initiate pairing with the first wireless communication unit 10. Alternatively, the method can involve the wireless mobile device 30, when paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, sending a command to the first wireless communication unit 10 570 to initiate pairing with the second wireless communication unit 20. The wireless mobile device 30 can send the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app.

[0075] Fig. Figure 4 shows an example of a flowchart of a method 600 for pairing the first wireless communication unit 10 of a control system 1 for a muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as a bicycle. The control system for the muscle-powered vehicle or light electric vehicle, such as the bicycle, is also referred to here as the bicycle control system or the control system. The control system 1 has a communication unit 70 which is mounted on a frame of the bicycle. The control system 1 has a wired connection 71 between the communication unit 70 and the first wireless communication unit 10. It is understood that the method 600 can refer to the control system 1, which is based on the Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B. Optional steps are shown in dashed boxes. Procedure 600 involves the communication unit 70 transmitting a pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal to the first wireless communication unit 10 via the wired link 71. 610 involves the first wireless communication unit 10, in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit 70 via the wired link 71, initiating or acknowledging a wireless pairing.

[0076] Optionally, the procedure 600 includes the first wireless communication unit 10 initiating or confirming the wireless pairing 620 with the wireless mobile device 30 or the second wireless communication unit 20 in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal via the wired link 71 from the communication unit 70.

[0077] Method 600 can involve the wireless mobile device 30, when paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, sending a command to the second wireless communication unit 20 to initiate pairing with the first wireless communication unit 10. Alternatively, method 600 can involve the wireless mobile device 30, when paired with the first wireless communication unit 10, sending a command to the first wireless communication unit 10 to initiate pairing with the second wireless communication unit 20. The method can also involve the wireless mobile device 30 sending the command in response to a user action, such as pressing a button, for example, in an app.

[0078] Optionally, the procedure 600 includes the communication unit 70 transmitting the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a switch-on and / or switch-off operation 650 taking place at the communication unit 70.

[0079] Optionally, the procedure 600 includes switching the communication unit 70 to the on state in response to a switch-on operation 660 at the on / off switch 72 of the communication unit and / or switching the communication unit 70 to the off state in response to a switch-off operation 660 at the on / off switch 72 of the communication unit. The procedure may include determining 670 whether the on / off switch 72 has been actuated for a period exceeding a predetermined threshold, and sending the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal in response to the on / off switch 72 being actuated for a period exceeding the predetermined threshold.

[0080] Optionally, the procedure 600 includes switching the communication unit 70 to the on state in response to the communication unit being electrically connected to a battery 680, for example via a connector, and / or switching the communication unit 70 to the off state in response to the communication unit being electrically disconnected from the battery 680, for example via the connector.

[0081] Fig.Figure 5 shows an example of a bicycle 1000. The bicycle has a frame 1002 and a front fork 1005. The bicycle has a handlebar 1003. A front wheel 1011 is mounted in the front fork 1005. The frame 1002 has a rear fork 1007 to which a rear wheel 1013 is mounted. A crank axle 1004 is mounted on the frame 1002. Pedals 1017 are connected to the crank axle 1004. A front chainring 1009 is also connected to the crank axle 1004. The rear wheel is equipped with a hub 100. The pedals 1017 drive the rear wheel 1013 via a gearbox 1100. A rear sprocket or a plurality of rear sprockets 306 is connected to the hub. The front chainring 1009 drives the rear sprocket 1021 via an endless element 304, such as a chain or a belt, for example via a rear wheel gear shifting mechanism 300.In the present example, bicycle 1 has a gear shifting device 400 which is configured to transmit a shift control signal.

[0082] The invention is described here with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. However, it is obvious that various modifications and alterations can be made to them without departing from the purpose of the invention. For the sake of clarity and a concise description, features are described here as part of the same or separate embodiments; however, alternative embodiments that include combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments are also considered.

[0083] Other modifications, variations, and alternatives are also possible. The descriptions, drawings, and examples should therefore be understood in an illustrative sense and not in a restrictive one.

[0084] In claims, reference numerals in parentheses should not be interpreted as limiting the claim. The word "comprising" does not preclude the presence of features or steps other than those listed in the claim. Furthermore, the words "one" should not be interpreted as limiting to "only one," but rather as meaning "at least one" and do not preclude multiple features. The mere fact that certain measures are listed in different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot also be advantageously used. Reference symbol list 1 Control system 10 first wireless communication unit 12 controllers 14 electric actuator 20 second wireless communication unit 30 wireless mobile devices 40 On / Off switches 50 batteries 52 Auxiliary battery 60 connectors 70 communication unit 71 wired connection 72 On / Off switches 74 buttons 75 battery 76 Auxiliary battery 80 connectors 100 hub 101 Wheel axle 102 gearboxes 200 crank unit 202 gearbox 300 rear wheel gear shift mechanism 304 chain 306 gear rings 400 gear shift device 500 procedures 505 Switch-on / switch-off process 510 changes 520 On / Off switch operation 530 Determine 540 Connect (Disconnect) 550 Start or confirm wireless pairing 600 procedures 610 Transferred 620 Start or Confirm 650 Switch-on / switch-off process 660 On / Off switch operation 670 Determine 680 Connect (Disconnect) 1000 vehicles 1002 frames 1003 Steering rod 1004 Crank axle 1005 front fork 1007 rear fork 1009 front chainring 1013 Rear wheel 1017 pedals 1021 rear sprocket 1100 gearbox QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] EP 1 475 302 A1

[0003] US 9,540,071 B2

[0004] EP 2023 / 076787 [0018, 0024, 0057, 0064]

Claims

Bicycle control system comprising: a first wireless communication unit mounted on a hub and / or wheel axle or crank unit or rear wheel gear shifting mechanism of the bicycle; and a wireless mobile device, such as a smartphone; wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or acknowledge wireless pairing with the wireless mobile device in response to a power-on and / or power-off operation. Bicycle control system according to claim 1, wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to switch to a power-on state in response to the power-on process prior to initiating or confirming wireless pairing, and / or wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to switch to a power-off state in response to the power-off process after initiating or confirming wireless pairing. Bicycle control system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an on / off switch, wherein the switching on process and / or the switching off process includes actuation of the on / off switch. Bicycle control system according to claim 3, wherein the first wireless communication unit has the on / off switch. Bicycle control system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or confirm wireless pairing in response to the on / off switch being operated for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold. Bicycle control system according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a battery, wherein the switching-on process includes electrically connecting the first wireless communication unit to the battery, or the switching-off process includes electrically disconnecting the first wireless communication unit from the battery. Bicycle control system according to claim 6, comprising a connector for power and / or communication between the battery and the first wireless communication device. Bicycle control system according to claim 7, wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to confirm or initiate wireless pairing in response to the first wireless communication unit being connected to the battery via the connector, and / or to confirm or initiate wireless pairing in response to the first wireless communication unit being disconnected from the battery via the connector. Bicycle control system according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein the battery is arranged on and / or in a frame of the bicycle. Bicycle control system according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein the battery is arranged on and / or in the hub and / or the wheel axle. Bicycle control system according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein the battery is arranged on and / or in a housing that is connected to the hub and / or the wheel axle. Bicycle control system according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first wireless communication unit has an auxiliary battery for providing electrical power to the first wireless communication unit during wireless pairing after the power-off process. Bicycle control system comprising: a first wireless communication unit mounted on a hub and / or wheel axle or crank unit or rear wheel gear shifting mechanism of the bicycle; a communication unit mounted on a frame of the bicycle; a wired connection between the communication unit and the first wireless communication unit; wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit a pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal to the first wireless communication unit via the wired connection; and wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or acknowledge wireless pairing in response to receiving the pairing initiation or acknowledgment signal from the communication unit via the wired connection. Bicycle control system according to claim 13, wherein the pairing initiation or confirmation signal is sent via a protocol such as CAN, CAN FD, UART, LIN, FlexRay, MOST, K-Line or Ethernet. Bicycle control system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the first wireless communication unit is configured to initiate or confirm a wireless pairing with a wireless mobile device or a second wireless communication unit connected to the bicycle in response to the reception of the pairing initiation or confirmation signal from the communication unit via the wired connection. Bicycle control system according to claim 13, 14 or 15, wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to a switch-on and / or switch-off operation performed on the communication unit. Bicycle control system according to claim 16, wherein the communication unit is configured to switch to an on state in response to the switch-on process before the transmission of the pairing initiation or confirmation signal, and wherein the communication unit is configured to switch to an off state in response to the switch-off process after the transmission of the pairing initiation or confirmation signal. Bicycle control system according to claim 16, wherein the communication unit has an on / off switch, wherein the switching on process and / or the switching off process includes actuation of the on / off switch. Bicycle control system according to claim 18, wherein the on / off switch is arranged on the communication unit, on a handlebar or on a frame of the bicycle. Bicycle control system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to the on / off switch being actuated for a period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold. Bicycle control system according to one of claims 13 to 20, further comprising a battery, wherein the switching-on process includes electrically connecting the communication unit to the battery, or the switching-off process includes electrically disconnecting the communication unit from the battery. Bicycle control system according to claim 21, comprising a connector for power and / or communication between the battery and the communication device. Bicycle control system according to claim 22, wherein the communication unit is configured to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to the communication unit being connected to the battery via the connector, and / or to transmit the pairing initiation or confirmation signal in response to the communication unit being disconnected from the battery via the connector. Bicycle control system according to one of claims 13 to 23, wherein the communication unit has an auxiliary battery for providing electrical power to the communication unit during the transmission of the pairing initiation or confirmation signal after the switch-off process.

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