Bicycle transmission system and a control method for it

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a bicycle transmission system comprising a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios. The transmission system also includes a control unit. The control unit has a memory in which one or more separate subsets of gear ratios are stored. Each separate subset is a separate subset of gear ratios within the continuous set of gear ratios. The control unit is configured to control the CVT to operate according to a selective choice of one or more separate subsets of gear ratios. The CVT is thus controlled to operate as a separate transmission. The CVT allows flexibility in the configuration of a separate subset. The individual gear ratios of a subset can therefore be determined as needed, for example, to adjust the gear ratios.B. to be adapted to a further gear toothing of the transmission system.

Description

AREA

[0001] The invention relates to bicycle transmission systems, in particular bicycle transmission systems that include a continuously variable transmission. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Bicycles typically include a gear system with multiple shifting gears selectable by the rider. Conventional bicycle gear systems involve a front derailleur to shift a chain between differently sized sprockets on a cassette. Alternatives to front derailleurs are hub gears, where a gear cable is provided inside the hub of a driven wheel, and crank gears, where a gear cable is provided inside the crankset. Hybrid systems also exist, combining a hub or crank gear with a front derailleur and a corresponding cassette.

[0003] Some bicycle transmission systems may include a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can operate at different gear ratios within a continuous range. A CVT allows a user to change the transmission's gear ratio in a stepless manner, thus providing smooth gear changes. SUMMARY

[0004] According to one aspect, a bicycle transmission system is provided that includes a continuously variable transmission (CVT) which can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios. The transmission system also includes a control unit. The control unit has a memory in which one or more separate subsets of gear ratios are stored. Each separate subset is a separate subset of gear ratios from the continuous set of gear ratios. The control unit is configured to control the CVT to operate according to a selective one or more of the separate subsets of gear ratios. The CVT is thus controlled to operate as a separate transmission. The CVT allows flexibility in the configuration of a separate subset.The individual gear ratios of a subset can therefore be determined as needed, for example to adapt to a further gear tooth configuration of the transmission system.

[0005] A gear change in the transmission system can involve a change in the CVT's gear ratio from one gear ratio of the separate subset to another. The gear ratios of the continuous set that lie between the individual gear ratios of a separate subset are not effectively utilized. The individual gear ratios of a separate subset can correspond to individual operating settings of the CVT, with a gear change in the CVT involving switching from one CVT setting to another. The control unit can control the CVT to transition between the different CVT settings, particularly according to a gear change commanded by a user.

[0006] The memory can store a multitude of separate subsets of translation ratios. Each separate subset contains a finite number of individual translation ratios, which are selected, for example, from the theoretically infinite set of translation ratios according to which the CVT can be operated.

[0007] The control unit may be configured to automatically determine a separate subset of gear ratios and store this automatically determined subset in memory. For example, the control unit can calculate a finite number of gear ratios from the continuous set that constitutes the separate subset. The CVT can be used, for instance, in combination with various other transmissions. A separate subset of gear ratios for the CVT can thus be automatically determined based on another transmission with which the CVT is to be combined to obtain a desired set of system gear ratios for the transmission system.

[0008] If necessary, the control unit is configured to automatically select a separate subset of translation ratios from the one or more separate subsets stored in memory and to control the CVT to operate according to the automatically selected separate subset of translation ratios. The control unit can thus select an optimal subset of translation ratios from a large number of subsets stored in memory.

[0009] If necessary, the control unit is configured to control the CVT to operate according to a separate subset of gear ratios, with the separate subset of gear ratios being automatically determined and / or automatically selected based on cycling data.

[0010] The bicycle data includes, for example, bicycle hardware data indicating the presence or absence of the bicycle's hardware components and specific attributes of those components. The bicycle hardware data might, for instance, indicate the presence of an additional gear in the transmission system and its associated gearing. It might also indicate the type of bicycle, such as whether it is a road bike, gravel bike, mountain bike, commuter bike, cargo bike, light electric vehicle, etc. Furthermore, the bicycle hardware data might indicate the presence or absence of an electric drive motor and the performance characteristics of any such motor.

[0011] Cycling data can include, for example, user data that identifies the user of the bicycle. This user data can include, for example, user preferences such as a preferred gear ratio and cadence, and / or physical characteristics of the user, such as general fitness level, age, height and weight, maximum rated power, functional threshold power, maximum endurance capacity (VO2 max), maximum heart rate, etc.

[0012] Cycling data can include, for example, usage data that indicates how the bicycle is used. This usage data can show, for example, the intended use of the bicycle, such as whether it is used for riding long, steep climbs, primarily on flat roads, for commuting within a city, for carrying loads, for indoor training, etc. The usage data can also show the bicycle's current or predicted geographic location, such as a planned route, general terrain characteristics, etc.

[0013] Cycling data can be entered by a user, such as via a user interface, and / or can be obtained from various sensors, such as power sensors, cadence sensors, heart rate monitors, GPS sensors, etc.

[0014] The bicycle transmission system may include an additional gearbox. If the transmission system includes an additional gearbox, the control unit may be configured to determine a separate subset of gear ratios by obtaining first gear data indicating the gear ratios of the additional gearbox; obtaining second gear data indicating the desired system gear ratios for the bicycle transmission system; and calculating the separate subset of gear ratios for the CVT based on the first and second gear data.

[0015] If necessary, the transmission system is configured to allow a user, e.g. via a user interface, to select any one of the one or more separate subsets of transmission ratios stored in the memory and to control the CVT with the control unit according to the subset selected by the user.

[0016] If necessary, the transmission system is configured to allow a user, e.g. via a user interface, to program a separate subset of gear ratios by specifying a finite number of different gear ratios within the continuous set of gear ratios and storing the specified gear ratios as a separate subset in memory.

[0017] If necessary, the control unit is configured to switch from controlling the CVT according to one of the one or more sets of gear ratios to controlling the CVT according to any other of the one or more sets of gear ratios, particularly during use of the bicycle.

[0018] Optionally, each gear ratio of one or more separate sets of gear ratios has a predetermined continuous fine-tuning range associated with it, and the control unit, while controlling the CVT according to a gear ratio from one of the sets of gear ratios, is configured to adjust the gear ratio within the associated predetermined continuous fine-tuning range based on user input. Thus, fine-tuning of the system gear ratio can be achieved by fine-tuning the gear ratio of the CVT. A cadence, i.e., the number of bicycle crank revolutions per time interval, can therefore be fine-tuned as needed.The fine-tuning range for a specific CVT translation ratio can be, in particular, smaller than one step size from the translation ratio to a subsequent translation ratio.

[0019] The control unit may be configured to track a target cadence by adjusting the gear ratio within the associated predetermined continuous fine-tuning range. For example, the control unit may be configured to determine, based on a detected cadence-related parameter, an appropriate CVT gear ratio to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the target cadence, and to automatically adjust the CVT gear ratio to the determined appropriate ratio. Thus, the CVT can be used to accurately track the target cadence.

[0020] If necessary, the control unit is configured to shift the CVT up or down from the current CVT ratio of the separate subset to a higher or lower CVT ratio of the separate subset if the appropriate CVT ratio is outside the fine-tuning range of the current CVT ratio.

[0021] The transmission system may be configured to allow a user to select and adjust the target cadence while cycling, for example, via a user interface. The user interface may include, for instance, a manually operated switch, such as a rotary switch, which the user can use to increase or decrease the target cadence according to their preference.

[0022] According to another aspect, a method for controlling a bicycle transmission system is provided. The bicycle transmission system comprises a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios. The transmission system also includes a control unit with a memory in which one or more separate subsets of gear ratios are stored, each separate subset being a separate subset of the continuous set of gear ratios. The method involves controlling the CVT with the control unit to operate according to a selective choice of one or more separate subsets of gear ratios stored in the memory.

[0023] In a general sense, the method relates to the use of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in a bicycle transmission system, wherein the CVT can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios, comprising operating the CVT according to a selective choice from a plurality of different separate subsets of the set of gear ratios.

[0024] If necessary, the procedure includes automatically determining, with the control unit, a separate subset of translation ratios and storing the automatically determined separate subset in the memory.

[0025] If necessary, the procedure includes automatically selecting a separate subset of translation ratios from the one or more separate subsets stored in memory and controlling the CVT to operate according to the automatically selected separate subset of translation ratios.

[0026] Where appropriate, the method includes automatically determining and / or automatically selecting a separate subset of gear ratios based on cycling data, where the cycling data includes, for example, one or more pieces of bicycle hardware data, user data, and usage data. The hardware data may indicate the presence or absence of bicycle hardware components and specific attributes of those hardware components. The user data may indicate a user of the bicycle. The usage data may indicate bicycle usage.

[0027] Optionally, the bicycle transmission system includes a further transmission, wherein determining the separate subset of transmission ratios involves the control unit receiving first gear data indicating the transmission ratios of the further transmission; the control unit receiving second gear data indicating the desired system transmission ratios for the bicycle transmission system; and the control unit calculating the separate subset of transmission ratios for the CVT based on the first and second gear data. The further transmission can, in particular, be a separate transmission that can be operated according to a finite, invariant, separate set of transmission ratios.

[0028] If appropriate, the method includes a user selecting, for example via a user interface, any one of the one or more separate subsets of translation ratios stored in the memory and controlling the transmission unit according to the subset selected by the user.

[0029] Optionally, the method includes a user, e.g. via a user interface, programming a separate subset of translation ratios by specifying a finite number of different translation ratios within the continuous set of translation ratios and storing the specified translation ratios as a separate subset in memory.

[0030] Where appropriate, the method includes switching from controlling the CVT according to the selective control of one or more sets of gear ratios to controlling the CVT according to another set of one or more sets of gear ratios, particularly while riding the bicycle. The method may further include switching from controlling the other transmission according to one of its respective gear ratios to controlling the other transmission according to another set of its respective gear ratios, particularly while riding the bicycle.

[0031] Optionally, each translation ratio of one or more separate subsets of translation ratios has a predetermined continuous fine-tuning range associated with it, and the method includes, while controlling the CVT according to a translation ratio of one of the one or more subsets of translation ratios, adjusting the translation ratio within the associated predetermined continuous fine-tuning range based on user input.

[0032] According to another aspect, a transmission system for a bicycle is provided. The transmission system of this aspect can correspond to any other aspect described in this document. The transmission system comprises a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to various gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios. The control unit has a memory in which a target cadence is stored. The control unit is configured to determine, based on a detected cadence-related parameter, a suitable CVT gear ratio to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value, and to automatically control the CVT to operate according to the determined suitable gear ratio. Thus, the CVT can be used to accurately track the target cadence.The control unit can make essentially continuous adjustments to the CVT ratio, enabling precise and perceptually seamless tracking of the target cadence. For example, if a user increases their power output and accelerates the bike, the CVT ratio can be adjusted accordingly by the control unit to maintain a constant cadence. The target cadence can be defined by the user, reflecting, for example, a personal preference. The target cadence can be defined as the number of pedal revolutions per unit of time.

[0033] The recorded cadence-related parameter may include one or more parameters derived from a recorded cadence value, crank speed, bicycle operating speed, wheel rotation speed, or user power output. The cadence value need not be measured directly but can be derived from other parameters, such as the bicycle operating speed, wheel rotation speed, and user power output, such as rated power or torque. The recorded cadence value itself may not be accurate in some cases, as the user may occasionally pause pedaling. In such cases, the second cadence value would be zero, which is not a suitable representation of the actual cadence.Secondary indicators can therefore be used instead or additionally to estimate a current cadence value.

[0034] The transmission system may also include a separate transmission that can be connected in series with the CVT and can be operated selectively according to a variety of different separate transmission ratios.

[0035] If necessary, the control unit is configured to determine, based on the detected cadence-related parameter, a suitable system gear ratio for the transmission system to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the target cadence, and to determine, based on the suitable system gear ratio, a suitable separate gear ratio for the separate transmission and the suitable CVT gear ratio for the CVT to form the suitable system gear ratio, and to automatically control the separate transmission and the CVT accordingly to operate according to their respective determined suitable gear ratios. Since the CVT may have a limited range, it may be necessary to also engage another gear in the transmission system.The system transmission ratio can be defined as the transmission ratio provided by the transmission system between the transmission system input and the transmission system output. It can therefore be formed by the gears between the transmission system input and the transmission system output. The system transmission ratio can thus be formed, at least partially, by the CVT transmission ratio and the separate transmission ratio.

[0036] If necessary, the control unit is configured to determine the appropriate CVT gear ratio for a given current separate gear ratio of the separate transmission; to determine whether the appropriate CVT gear ratio is within or outside the continuous set; and to automatically shift the separate transmission up and down from the current separate gear ratio to a higher or lower gear ratio when the determined appropriate CVT gear ratio is outside the continuous set.

[0037] The transmission system may be configured to allow a user to select and adjust the target cadence while cycling, for example, via a user interface. The user interface may include, for instance, a manually operated switch, such as a rotary switch, which the user can use to increase or decrease the target cadence according to their preference.

[0038] According to another aspect, a method for controlling a bicycle transmission system is provided. The bicycle transmission system comprises a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios. The bicycle transmission can correspond to any bicycle transmission described in this document. The bicycle transmission includes a control unit with a memory in which a target cadence value is stored. The method includes determining, based on a detected parameter related to cadence, a suitable CVT gear ratio to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the target cadence, and automatically determining the CVT to operate according to the determined suitable gear ratio.

[0039] The transmission system may also include a separate transmission that can be connected in series with the CVT and can be operated selectively according to a variety of different separate transmission ratios.

[0040] Where appropriate, the procedure includes determining, based on the detected cadence-related parameter, a suitable system gear ratio for the transmission system to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the target cadence; determining, based on the suitable system gear ratio, a suitable separate gear ratio for the separate transmission and the suitable CVT gear ratio for the CVT to form the suitable system gear ratio; and automatically controlling the separate transmission and the CVT accordingly to operate according to their respective determined suitable gear ratios.

[0041] Where appropriate, the procedure includes determining the appropriate CVT transmission ratio given a current separate transmission ratio; determining whether the appropriate CVT transmission ratio is outside the continuous set; and automatically shifting the separate transmission up or down from the current separate transmission ratio to a higher or lower transmission ratio if the determined appropriate CVT transmission ratio is outside the continuous set.

[0042] The procedure may include a user selecting and setting the target cadence while cycling, e.g. via a user interface.

[0043] According to one aspect, a bicycle is provided that includes a transmission system as described in this document. It is understood that a bicycle includes similar human-propelled vehicles, especially those powered by pedals, such as tricycles, quadricycles, etc. The bicycle transmission can be implemented as a hub gear and / or a crank gear.

[0044] According to one aspect, an electrically powered vehicle is provided, such as a light electrically powered vehicle, for example an electric bicycle or an electric scooter. The electrically powered vehicle comprises a bicycle gearbox, as described in this document, and an electric drive motor with a rated power of a maximum of 10 kW, preferably a maximum of 4 kW; wherein the electric drive motor is designed to drive or assist in driving the vehicle, the rated power of the drive motor being transmitted at least partially through the bicycle gearbox.

[0045] It is understood that any of the aspects, features, and options described in this document can be combined. In particular, it is understood that any of the aspects, features, and options described with regard to the transmission system apply equally to the process, and vice versa. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the following applies: Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 show examples of a bicycle transmission system; Fig. Figure 3 shows a bicycle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic example of a transmission system 10 comprising a continuously variable transmission (CVT) 1 and a control unit 2 with a memory 3. The CVT 1 can be operated selectively according to a multitude of different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios. The CVT 1 can be any type of CVT. An example of a suitable CVT 1 is described in PCT / EP2022 / 060915, the entire contents of which are incorporated into this document by reference. The control unit 2 is operatively connected to the CVT 1 to control it. The memory 3 of the control unit 2 stores one or more separate subsets of the continuous set of gear ratios. Thus, each separate subset contains a finite number of gear ratios selected from the theoretically infinite number of gear ratios in the continuous set of gear ratios of the CVT 1.Control unit 2 is specifically designed to control CVT 1 to operate according to a selective selection of one or more subsets of translation ratios. For example, control unit 2 can control an actuator of CVT 1 to change an operating setting of CVT 1 according to the translation ratios of a specific, separate subset.

[0048] Memory 3 can store a variety of different, separate subsets of translation ratios. For example, a user can select any of the separate subsets stored in memory 3 and have control unit 2 control CVT 1 accordingly. A user can also store a separate subset of translation ratios in memory 3.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, memory location 3 can store a target cadence. A user can, for example, select a desired target cadence and / or set the target cadence.

[0050] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic example of the transmission system 10, which includes a user interface 4 through which a user can interact with the control unit 2. The user interface 4 can be part of the control unit. Using the user interface 4, the user can, for example, store a separate subset of gear ratios in memory 3 and / or select any of the separate subsets stored in memory 3 so that the CVT 1 is controlled accordingly. Additionally or alternatively, the user can use the user interface to store a target cadence value in memory 3 and / or set and select target cadence values ​​stored in memory 3.

[0051] It is understood that the user interface can include four different input devices for receiving user input and four different output devices for providing feedback to the user. In a specific example, the user interface could include a bicycle computer and / or a general-purpose computer, such as a smartphone. Furthermore, the user interface could include a switch, such as a rotary switch, to allow the user to manually adjust the target cadence.

[0052] In the example from Fig. In this example, the transmission system 10 includes a further transmission 5, which is connected in series with the CVT 1. The further transmission 5 is a separate transmission that can be selectively operated according to a variety of different, separate gear ratios. The further transmission 5 can, for example, include a gear train, such as a planetary gear set, and / or a derailleur system. The control unit 2 is configured in this example to control the further transmission. The control unit 2 can, for example, control a shift actuator of the further transmission 5 to shift gears of the further transmission 5. Thus, in this example, the CVT 1 and the further transmission 5 can jointly provide different gear ratios.

[0053] Memory 3 of control unit 2 can store a separate subset of gear ratios for CVT 1, adapted to the gearing of the further gear 5. In this way, a suitable set of system gear ratios can be obtained, e.g., with appropriate steps between successive gear ratios. Control unit 2 can, for example, be configured to calculate a separate subset of gear ratios for CVT 1 based on the gearing of the further gear 5 and to store the calculated separate subset in memory 3. Control unit 2 can also be configured to select a suitable separate subset of gear ratios from the one or more separate subsets stored in memory 3 and to control CVT 1 accordingly.For example, a user can use the user interface to indicate whether the additional gearbox is present and to enter its properties, such as its specific gear ratio. Control unit 2 can also be configured to automatically detect the presence of the additional gearbox and CVT 1, as well as the properties of these gearboxes. This can be useful for modular gearbox systems where multiple gearbox modules can be coupled together.

[0054] Memory 3 of control unit 2 can store a separate subset of gear ratios for CVT 1, tailored to a user's preference. For example, the user can select a desired subset of gear ratios from the separate subsets stored in memory 3, corresponding to an intended cycling style. If, for instance, the user primarily intends to cycle uphill, a suitable separate subset can be selected that provides many small increases between higher gears of the transmission system. The user can select a desired separate subset via the user interface, for example, before and / or while cycling.

[0055] Additionally or alternatively, control unit 2 can be configured to automatically select and / or determine a separate subset of translation ratios for CVT 1. Such automatic selection and / or determination can be based on various aspects, including, but not limited to, - Bicycle hardware aspects, e.g., the presence or absence of bicycle hardware components and specific attributes of these hardware components, such as whether the bicycle is a racing bike, a gravel bike, a mountain bike, a commuter bike, a cargo bike, a light electric vehicle, and whether it has an electric drive; - User aspects, such as preferences and attributes of a bicycle user, e.g., a preferred gear ratio and preferred cadence, physical characteristics of the user, such as general fitness level, age, height and weight, a maximum rated power, a functional threshold power, a maximum endurance capacity (VO2 max), a maximum heart rate; - Cycling aspects, e.g., intended use of the bicycle, for example, for riding long steep climbs, primarily on flat roads, for commuting within a city, for carrying loads, for indoor training, and a current and predicted geographical location of the bicycle.

[0056] Any such aspects can be entered by a user, such as via the user interface 4, and / or can be obtained from various sensors 6, such as speed sensors, power sensors, cadence sensors, heart rate monitors, GPS sensors, etc.

[0057] The example from Fig. 2 also includes a shift device 7, which can be manually operated by a user to command a gear change. The shift device 7 can, for example, be provided on the handlebars of the bicycle and configured to transmit a shift signal when the shift device 7 is actuated. The shift signal can be, for example, an upshift signal to command an upshift to a higher gear or a downshift signal to command a downshift to a lower gear. The control unit 2 is configured to receive the shift signal and accordingly to control the CVT 1 and, in this example, also the further transmission 5. The shift device 7 can be part of the user interface 4. Thus, a user can, for example, select a separate subset of gear ratios stored in the memory using the shift device 7.For example, the transmission system 10 can be put into a subset selection mode, e.g. by using a separate switch or a predetermined sequence of actuations with the shifting device, wherein the upshift signal in subset selection mode can select a next separate subset stored in memory 2 and the downshift signal can select a previous separate subset stored in memory 2.

[0058] In one example, the additional transmission 5 can be selectively operated according to four different gear ratios R1, R2, R3, and R4. The CVT 1 can be operated according to any gear ratio RCVT within a continuous set of gear ratios, e.g., from 1.00 to 1.50. The user can, for example, input a value via the user interface 4 to preferably have a seventeen-speed transmission system 10 with a substantially constant step between successive gear ratios of approximately nine percent. A separate subset of gear ratios for the CVT 1, e.g., RCVT_1, RCVT_2, RCVT_3, RCVT_4, can be determined based on this, as shown in Table 1.

[0059] In the example from Table 1, the separate set of gear ratios for CVT 1 includes only five different gear ratios, here RCVT_1 to RCVT_4. Control unit 2 can thus control CVT 1 according to this exemplary separate set of gear ratios, for example, by switching the CVT between only five different CVT settings. Control unit 2 also controls the other transmission 5 according to the system gear ratios. For example, the control unit can be configured to receive an upshift or downshift signal from a manually operated shifter and to control the other transmission 5 and CVT 1 accordingly to obtain the next higher or lower system gear ratio.

[0060] In another example, using the same additional gearbox 5 and the same CVT 1 as in the example from Table 1, a nine-speed gearbox system can be obtained, with a stage size between successive gear ratios being constant and approximately nineteen percent, as shown in Table 2. Such system gear ratios may be suitable, for example, for commuting through the city.

[0061] In another example, using the same additional gearbox 5 and the same CVT 1 as in the example from Tables 1 and 2, a fourteen-speed gearbox system can be obtained, with a step size gradually increasing between successive gear ratios, as shown in Table 3. Such system gear ratios may be suitable for hill climbing.

[0062] Fig.Figure 3 shows a bicycle 100. The bicycle 100 comprises a frame 102 with a front fork 105 and a rear fork 107, as well as a front wheel and a rear wheel 111, 113, which are located in the front and rear forks, respectively. The bicycle 100 also comprises a crank 117 and a front chainring 119, which are connected to each other. The bicycle 100 also comprises a rear sprocket 121 and a rear hub 122 of the rear wheel 113, with a chain 123 wound over the front chainring 119 and the rear sprocket 121. The bicycle 100 comprises a transmission system 10, as described in this document. In this example, the transmission system 10 includes the further transmission 5. The further transmission 5 is, in this example, designed as a hub gear, which is housed in the rear hub 122. The CVT 1 of the transmission system 10 is arranged here in a transmission path between the rear gear ring 121 and the further transmission 5.In this example, the control unit 2 is housed in the frame 102. The control unit can be connected to the other gearbox 5 and the CVT 1 either wired or wirelessly. A user interface 4, here formed by a bicycle computer, is mounted on the handlebar 131 to allow a user to interface with the control unit 2.

[0063] In this document, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. However, it is obvious that various modifications and changes can be made to it without departing from the essence of the invention. For the sake of clarity and a concise description, features are described in this document as part of the same or separate embodiments; however, alternative embodiments are also considered that incorporate combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments.

[0064] However, other modifications, variations, and alternatives are also possible. The specifications, drawings, and examples are therefore to be understood in an illustrative, not a limiting, sense.

[0065] In patent claims, reference numerals enclosed in parentheses are not to be interpreted as limiting the patent claim. The word "comprising" does not preclude the presence of features or steps other than those listed in a patent claim. Furthermore, the words "a" and "a" are not to be interpreted as limiting them to "only one," but are instead used to mean "at least one," and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are mentioned in different patent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously. 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 2022 / 060915

[0047]

Claims

[1] Gear system for a bicycle, comprising: a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios; and a control unit with a memory in which one or more separate subsets of translation ratios are stored, wherein each separate subset is a separate subset of translation ratios of the continuous set of translation ratios, wherein the control unit is configured to control the CVT to operate according to a selective choice of one or more separate subsets of translation ratios. [2] Transmission system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to automatically determine a separate subset of transmission ratios and to store the automatically determined separate subset in the memory. [3] Transmission system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit is configured to automatically select a separate subset of transmission ratios from the one or more separate subsets stored in the memory and to control the CVT to operate according to the automatically selected separate subset of transmission ratios. [4] Transmission system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the control unit for controlling the CVT is configured to operate according to a separate subset of gear ratios, wherein the separate subset of gear ratios is automatically determined and / or automatically selected based on wheel-driving data, wherein the wheel-driving data includes, for example, one or more of the following: - a further gear in the transmission system, such as the presence of the further gear and / or a gear ratio of the further gear; - an intended use of the bicycle; - a current and / or predicted geographical location of the bicycle; - a type of bicycle; - the presence or absence of an electric drive motor; - a user's fitness level of the bicycle. [5] Transmission system according to claim 2, or claim 3 or 4 if dependent on claim 2, wherein the bicycle transmission system includes a further transmission and wherein the control unit is configured to determine the separate subset of transmission ratios by: Obtaining initial gear data that indicates the gear ratios of the subsequent gearing; Obtaining second gear data that indicates the desired system gear ratios for the bicycle transmission system; Calculating the separate subset of translation ratios for the CVT based on the first gear data and the second gear data. [6] Transmission system according to any of the preceding claims, configured to allow a user, e.g. via a user interface, to select any one of the one or more separate subsets of transmission ratios stored in the memory and to control the CVT according to the subset selected by the user. [7] Gear system according to one of the preceding claims, configured to allow a user, e.g. via a user interface, to program a separate subset of gear ratios by specifying a finite number of different gear ratios within the continuous set of gear ratios and storing the specified gear ratios as a separate subset in the memory. [8] Transmission system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit is configured to switch from controlling the CVT according to one of the one or more sets of transmission ratios to controlling the CVT according to any other of the one or more sets of transmission ratios, in particular during use of the bicycle. [9] Transmission system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each transmission ratio of one or more separate sets of transmission ratios has a predetermined continuous fine-tuning range associated with it, and wherein the control unit, while controlling the CVT according to a transmission ratio of one of the one or more sets of transmission ratios, is configured to adjust the transmission ratio within the associated predetermined continuous fine-tuning range based on user input. [10] Transmission system according to claim 9, wherein the control unit is configured to track a target cadence by adjusting the transmission ratio within the associated predetermined continuous fine-tuning range. [11] Method for controlling a bicycle transmission system, wherein the bicycle transmission system comprises a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios, and a control unit with a memory in which one or more separate subsets of gear ratios are stored, each separate subset being a separate subset of gear ratios of the continuous set of gear ratios; wherein the method comprises controlling the CVT with the control unit to operate according to a selective one of the one or more separate subsets of gear ratios stored in the memory. [12] Method according to claim 11, comprising automatic determination, with the control unit, of a separate subset of translation ratios and storage of the automatically determined separate subset in the memory. [13] Method according to claim 11 or 12, comprising automatically selecting a separate subset of translation ratios from the one or more separate subsets stored in the memory and controlling the CVT to operate according to the automatically selected separate subset of translation ratios. [14] Method according to claim 12 or 13, comprising automatically determining and / or automatically selecting a separate subset of gear ratios based on cycling data, wherein the cycling data includes, for example, one or more of the following: - a further gear in the transmission system, such as the presence of the further gear and / or the gearing of the further gear; - an intended use of the bicycle; - a current and / or predicted geographical location of the bicycle; - a type of bicycle; - the presence or absence of an electric drive motor; - a user's fitness level of the bicycle. [15] Method according to claim 12, or claim 13 or 14 if dependent on claim 12, wherein the bicycle transmission system includes a further transmission and wherein determining the separate subset of transmission ratios includes the following: that the control unit receives initial gear data, which indicates the gear ratios of the subsequent gearbox; that the control unit receives second gear data indicating the desired system gear ratios for the bicycle transmission system; that the control unit calculates the separate subset of translation ratios for the CVT based on the first gear data and the second gear data. [16] Method according to any one of claims 11-15, comprising that a user, e.g. via a user interface, selects any one of the one or more separate subsets of translation ratios stored in the memory and controls the transmission unit according to the subset selected by the user. [17] Method according to one of claims 11-16, comprising that a user, e.g. via a user interface, programs a separate subset of translation ratios by specifying a finite number of different translation ratios within the continuous set of translation ratios and storing the specified translation ratios as a separate subset in the memory. [18] Method according to any one of claims 11-17, comprising switching from controlling the CVT according to the selective control of one or more subsets of gear ratios to controlling the CVT according to another of one or more subsets of gear ratios, in particular while riding the bicycle. [19] Method according to one of claims 11-18, wherein each translation ratio of one or more separate subsets of translation ratios has a predetermined continuous fine-tuning range associated therewith, and wherein the method comprises adjusting the translation ratio within the associated predetermined continuous fine-tuning range based on user input while controlling the CVT according to a translation ratio of one of the one or more subsets of translation ratios. [20] A bicycle transmission system, as according to any of the preceding claims, comprising: a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios; and a control unit with a memory on which a target cadence value is stored; wherein the control unit is configured to determine, based on a detected parameter related to cadence, a suitable CVT gear ratio to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the target cadence, and to automatically control the CVT to operate according to the determined suitable gear ratio. [21] Gear system according to claim 20, wherein the detected parameter related to the cadence includes one or more parameters from a detected cadence value, a detected operating speed of the bicycle, a detected rotational speed of a wheel of the bicycle, a detected user power. [22] Transmission system according to claim 20 or 21, further comprising a separate transmission which can be connected in series with the CVT and can be operated selectively according to a plurality of different separate transmission ratios. [23] Transmission system according to claim 22, wherein the control unit is configured to determine, based on the detected parameter related to cadence, a suitable system transmission ratio for the transmission system in order to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the target cadence value, and to determine, based on the suitable system transmission ratio, a suitable separate transmission ratio for the separate transmission and the suitable CVT transmission ratio for the CVT in order to form the suitable system transmission ratio, and to automatically control the separate transmission and the CVT accordingly to operate according to their respective determined suitable transmission ratios. [24] Transmission system according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the control unit is configured to, to determine the appropriate CVT transmission ratio given the current separate transmission ratio of the separate gearbox; to determine whether the appropriate CVT translation ratio lies outside the continuous sentence; and to automatically shift the separate transmission up or down from the current separate gear ratio to a higher or lower gear ratio when the specified suitable CVT gear ratio is outside the continuous set. [25] Transmission system according to one of claims 20-24, configured to allow a user to select and adjust the target cadence while cycling, e.g. via a user interface. [26] Method for controlling a bicycle transmission system, wherein the bicycle transmission system comprises a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that can be selectively operated according to different gear ratios within a continuous set of gear ratios, and a control unit with a memory in which one or more separate subsets of gear ratios are stored, wherein the method comprises determining, on the basis of a detected parameter related to cadence, a suitable CVT gear ratio in order to obtain and / or maintain a cadence value at the cadence setpoint, and automatically determining the CVT to operate according to the determined suitable gear ratio. [27] Method according to claim 26, wherein the transmission system further comprises a separate transmission which can be connected in series with the CVT and can be operated selectively according to a plurality of different separate transmission ratios. [28] The method of claim 27, comprising Determine, based on the recorded parameter related to cadence, a suitable system gear ratio for the transmission system in order to obtain a cadence value and / or maintain it at the target cadence value; Determine, based on the appropriate system gear ratio, an appropriate separate gear ratio for the separate transmission and the appropriate CVT gear ratio for the CVT, to form the appropriate system gear ratio, and automatic appropriate control of the separate gearbox and CVT to operate according to their respective determined suitable gear ratios. [29] Method according to claim 27 or 28, comprising determining the appropriate CVT transmission ratio at a current separate transmission ratio of the separate gearbox; Determine whether the appropriate CVT translation ratio lies outside the continuous sentence; and Automatic upshifting or downshifting of the separate transmission from the current separate gear ratio to a higher or lower gear ratio when the specified suitable CVT gear ratio is outside the continuous set. [30] Method according to one of claims 26-29, comprising that a user selects and sets the target cadence value while cycling, e.g. via a user interface. [31] Bicycle comprising a transmission system according to one of claims 1-10 and / or one of claims 20-25.

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