Bicycle suspension components and electronic control devices

Abstract

Shock absorber for a bicycle, the shock absorber comprising: a first eyelet configured for attachment to a bicycle frame and a second eyelet configured for attachment to a bicycle frame, the first eyelet and the second eyelet defining a space therebetween; a damper body defining a first chamber; a reservoir defining a second chamber, a flow path being defined between the first chamber and the second chamber; a flow control element disposed in the reservoir in the flow path; a movement device for operating the flow control element to influence a fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber; a printed circuit board (PCB) having a circuit to activate the movement device based on a command signal to actuate the flow control element; a wireless transceiver for receiving the command signal, wherein the wireless transceiver is arranged on the PCB and the PCB is arranged in a housing of a control device, wherein at least a portion of the housing is constructed of radio frequency permeable material; and a battery disposed in the space between the first eyelet and the second eyelet, the battery configured to supply power to the electrically powered movement device.

Description

AREA OF REVELATION

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to bicycle components and more particularly to bicycle suspension components and electronic control devices. BACKGROUND

[0002] Bicycles are known to have various suspension components. Suspension components are used for various purposes, such as absorbing shocks, vibrations, or other disturbances the bicycle experiences during use. A common application for suspension components on bicycles is to absorb shocks or vibrations experienced by the rider as the vehicle travels over bumps, ruts, rocks, potholes, and / or other obstacles. These suspension components include rear and / or front suspension components. Suspension components can also be used in other locations, such as a seatpost or handlebar, to isolate the rider from impacts. SUMMARY

[0003] An exemplary shock absorber for a bicycle disclosed herein includes a damper body defining a first chamber and a reservoir defining a second chamber. A flow path is defined between the first chamber and the second chamber. The exemplary shock absorber further includes a flow control element disposed in the flow path and a motor for operating the flow control element to influence fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0004] An exemplary shock absorber for a bicycle disclosed herein includes a damper body defining a first chamber and a reservoir defining a second chamber. A flow path is defined between the first chamber and the second chamber. The shock absorber further includes a flow control element disposed within a body of the reservoir and a control device for actuating the flow control element based on a wireless command signal to influence fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0005] An exemplary shock absorber for a bicycle disclosed herein includes a spring and a damper configured in a telescopic arrangement with the spring. The damper has a damper body defining a first chamber. A flow path is defined between the first chamber and a second chamber. The shock absorber further includes a flow control element disposed in the flow path and a motor for operating the flow control element to influence a damping rate of the shock absorber. LIST OF FIGURES Fig. 1 is a side view of an exemplary bicycle that may utilize exemplary suspension components and exemplary electronic control devices disclosed herein. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary shock absorber with an exemplary control device constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure and installed on the exemplary bicycle of Fig. 1 can be implemented. Fig. 3 is a side view of the exemplary shock absorber of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the exemplary shock absorber of Fig. 2, which shows the exemplary control device separated from an exemplary reservoir of the exemplary shock absorber. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the exemplary control device of Fig. 2. Fig. 6 is a partially exploded view of the exemplary shock absorber of Fig. 2 without the exemplary control device. Fig. 7 is a side view of the exemplary reservoir and an exemplary cap of the exemplary shock absorber of Fig. 2. Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary reservoir and the exemplary cap along line AA of Fig. 7. Fig. 8 shows an exemplary flow control element in the exemplary reservoir. Fig. 9 is an exploded view of the exemplary flow control element of Fig. 8. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the exemplary flow control element of Fig. 8. Fig. 11 is a side view of the exemplary flow control element of Fig. 8. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary flow control element taken along line BB of Fig. 11, which shows the exemplary flow control element in the open state. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary flow control element taken along line BB of Fig. 11, which shows the exemplary flow control element in the open state. Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary flow control element taken along line BB of Fig. 11, which shows the exemplary flow control element in the closed state. Fig. 15 is an exploded view of the exemplary control device of Fig. 2. Fig. 16 is an exploded view of an exemplary motor assembly of the exemplary control device of Fig. 15. Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the exemplary engine assembly of Fig. 16. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary engine assembly taken along line CC of Fig. 17. Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary control device along DD of Fig. 4.

[0006] The figures are not to scale. Instead, the thickness of layers or regions may be exaggerated in the drawings. In general, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or similar parts.

[0007] Descriptors "first," "second," "third," etc., are used herein when multiple elements or components are identified that may be referred to separately. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on the context used, these descriptors are not intended to imply any significance of priority or chronological order, but merely as identifiers for separately identifying multiple elements or components for easier understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" may be used to identify one element in the detailed description, while the same element may be referred to in a claim with a different descriptor, such as "second" or "third." In these circumstances, it should be understood that such descriptors are used merely to conveniently identify multiple elements or components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Disclosed herein are exemplary dampers that may be implemented as a suspension component of a vehicle, such as a bicycle. The exemplary dampers may be used as part of a shock absorber incorporating a damper and a spring that may act together to absorb shock impulses. The exemplary dampers are adjustable and may operate in different states to affect the damping rate of the shock absorber. The degree of damping desired may depend on various variables, such as the speed of the bicycle, the terrain over which the bicycle travels, the structure of the bicycle, the wheel width, the rider's weight, and / or the rider's particular preferences.

[0009] Conventional adjustable dampers can be manually operated by the user. Some popular adjustable dampers have adjustment knobs on the damper itself. However, adjusting this type of damper is often a time-consuming task. In particular, a rider cannot safely adjust the damper while riding the bike. Therefore, the rider must dismount the bike to manually adjust the damper. Other popular adjustable dampers are operated via a cable or hydraulic hose leading to an actuation mechanism on the handlebar. However, these cables and tubes are often bulky and increase the weight of the bike. Furthermore, these cables and tubes are prone to damage from external hazards (e.g., tree branches).

[0010] Disclosed herein are exemplary adjustable dampers that can be remotely actuated and / or modified. In particular, exemplary electronic control devices that can be used to actuate and / or modify the states of a damper are disclosed herein. The exemplary electronic control devices may include a moving device, such as a motor, a battery, and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless command signals.

[0011] In one embodiment, a motor is used as the moving device to impart rotary motion to the system. In some applications, rotary motion may be preferred, and an electric motor providing the rotary motion may be an efficient user of energy contained in a power supply such as a battery.

[0012] Based on a received command signal, a motor can be activated to change a state of a flow control element of the damper, thereby influencing a damping rate of the damper. Thus, the exemplary electronic control devices disclosed herein do not require bulky cables or tubing as seen in known adjustable damper systems. Furthermore, the exemplary electronic control devices can be used to automatically adjust or modify the state of the damper without physical user interaction with the suspension component. This allows for near-instantaneous adjustment of the damper without requiring manual interaction with the damper. Thus, the damper can be quickly adjusted to an optimal or desired state while the rider is riding the bicycle (i.e., on the fly).In some examples, the command is generated by a controller based on one or more other parameters of the bicycle or based on user input to the controller. The exemplary electronic control devices disclosed herein are relatively small and compact, thus adding minimal weight to the suspension component. Furthermore, the components of the electronic control device are housed in a housing that protects the components from external hazards, such as tree branches, rocks, etc., to which the suspension component may be exposed during aggressive riding.

[0013] If we now turn to the figures, we see Fig. 1 shows an example of a human-powered vehicle on which the exemplary suspension components and electronic control devices disclosed herein can be implemented. In this example, the vehicle is a possible type of bicycle 100, such as a mountain bike. In the illustrated example, the bicycle 100 includes a frame 102 and a front wheel 104 and a rear wheel 106 rotatably connected to the frame 102. In the illustrated example, the front wheel 104 is connected to the front end of the frame 102 via a front fork 108. A front and / or forward direction of travel or orientation of the bicycle 100 is shown in Fig. 1 is indicated by the direction arrow A. In this respect, the forward direction of movement for the bicycle 100 is indicated by the direction arrow A.

[0014] In the example shown by Fig. 1, the bicycle 100 includes a seat 110 connected to the frame 102 via a seat post 112 (e.g., near the rear end of the frame 102 relative to the forward direction A). The bicycle 100 also includes a handlebar 114 connected to the frame 102 at the front fork 108 (e.g., near a front end of the frame 102 relative to the forward direction A) for steering the bicycle 100. The bicycle 100 is shown on a riding surface 116. The riding surface 116 can be any riding surface, such as the ground (e.g., a trail, sidewalk, road, etc.), a man-made structure above the ground (e.g., a wooden ramp), and / or any other surface.

[0015] In the illustrated example, the bicycle 100 has a drivetrain 118 including a crank assembly 120. The crank assembly 120 is operatively connected via a chain 122 to a sprocket assembly 124 mounted on a hub 126 of the rear wheel 106. The crank assembly 120 includes at least one, and typically two, crank arms 128 and pedals 130, along with at least one front sprocket or chainring 132. A rear gear changing device 134, such as a derailleur, is disposed on the rear wheel 106 to move the chain 122 through different sprockets of the sprocket assembly 124. Additionally or alternatively, the bicycle 100 may also include a front gear changing device to move the chain 122 through gears on the chainring 132.

[0016] The exemplary bicycle 100 includes a suspension system with one or more suspension components. In this example, the bicycle 100 includes a front suspension component 136 and a rear suspension component 138. The front and rear suspension components 136, 138 are shock absorbers (sometimes referred to as shocks) and are referred to herein as shock absorbers 136, 138. The shock absorbers 136, 138 absorb shocks while the bicycle 100 is traveling (for example, when traveling over rougher terrain). In this example, the shock absorber 136 is integrated into the front fork 108. The shock absorber 138 is connected between two sections of the frame 102, including a swingarm 140 connected to the rear wheel 106. In other examples, the shock absorber 136 and / or the shock absorber 138 may be integrated into the bicycle 100 in other configurations or arrangements.Furthermore, in other examples, the suspension system may utilize only one suspension component (e.g., only one shock absorber, such as shock absorber 138) or more than two suspension components (e.g., an additional suspension component on seat post 112) in addition to or as an alternative to shock absorbers 136, 138.

[0017] In some examples, one or more components of the bicycle 100 are electronically controlled. For example, the shock absorber 138 of Fig. 1 an electronic control device 142 (referred to herein as the control device 142) that can adjust certain parameters of the shock absorber 138. Examples of the shock absorber 138 and the control device 142 are disclosed in further detail herein. Similarly, in the illustrated example, the bicycle 100 includes a control device 144 associated with the shock absorber 136 that can adjust certain parameters of the shock absorber 136. An example of such a control device and a front suspension component are disclosed in U.S. Application No. 16 / 140,064, entitled "Controllable Cycle Suspension," filed September 24, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Further, in the illustrated example of Fig. 1, the bicycle 100 includes a control device 146 associated with the rear gear change device 134 for shifting gears, a control device 148 associated with the seat post 112 for adjusting the suspension and / or the height of the seat 110, and a control device associated with one or both brake levers 152 for braking the bicycle 100. In other examples, the bicycle 100 may include more or fewer control devices.

[0018] In some examples, the bicycle 100 includes a controller 154 (e.g., a master controller) that can communicate with and control one or more components of the bicycle 100. For example, the controller 154 can wirelessly send commands to the control devices 142, 144, 146, 148, 150 to adjust certain parameters of the respective components. In some examples, the controller has a user interface (e.g., buttons, a touchscreen, etc.) to receive commands entered by a user. For example, a user can enter a command to increase or decrease the damping rate of the shock absorber 138. In this example, the controller 154 sends a command to the control device 142 associated with the shock absorber 138.Additionally or alternatively, the controller 154 may automatically generate commands based on one or more sensed parameters (e.g., speed of the bicycle 100, pitch angle of the bicycle 100, crank assembly torque, etc.). Thus, the bicycle 100 may have one or more sensors to measure and / or detect various parameters associated with the bicycle 100. The controller 154 and the control devices 142, 144, 146, 148, 150 communicate and / or share data such as control commands, status indicators, and other data related to the function and / or activity of the bicycle 100.

[0019] In this example, the controller 154 and the control devices 142, 144, 146, 148, 150 communicate (e.g., send / receive commands, sensor output values, etc.) via wireless communication. In other examples, the bicycle 100 may include one or more cable connections (e.g., wires, cables, etc.) to connect the controller 154 to the control devices 142, 144, 146, 148, 150 for communication.

[0020] While the Fig. While the exemplary bicycle 100 illustrated in Figure 1 is a type of mountain bike, the exemplary suspension components and exemplary electronic control devices disclosed herein may also be implemented on other types of bicycles. For example, the disclosed suspension components and electronic control devices may also be used on road bicycles, such as bicycles with mechanical (e.g., cable, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) and non-mechanical (e.g., wire, wireless) drive systems. The disclosed suspension components and control devices may also be implemented on other types of two-, three-, and four-wheeled human-powered vehicles. Furthermore, the exemplary suspension components and control devices may also be used on other types of vehicles, such as motor vehicles (e.g., a motorcycle, a car, a truck, etc.).

[0021] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the exemplary shock absorber 138 used as the rear suspension component on the bicycle 100. However, the shock absorber 138 may also be used in other locations on the bicycle 100. The exemplary shock absorber 138 includes the control device 142 for adjusting or modifying one or more operating conditions of the shock absorber 138, as disclosed in further detail herein.

[0022] In the illustrated example, the exemplary shock absorber 138 integrally includes a spring 200 and a damper 202. The spring 200 works (by compressing or expanding) to absorb vibrations or shocks, while the damper 202 works to dampen (slow down) the movement of the spring 200. In the illustrated example, the spring 200 is implemented as an air reservoir 204. However, in other examples, the spring 200 may also be implemented as another type of spring, such as a coil spring. The spring 200 and the damper 202 are configured in a telescopic arrangement and aligned along an axis 206.

[0023] In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 138 includes a cap 208 that forms a top of the air reservoir 204. The damper 202 includes a damper body 210. The cap 208 and the damper body 210 include respective first and second attachment portions 212, 214 (e.g., eyelets) at distal ends for connecting the shock absorber 138 between two components of the bicycle, such as two points on the frame 102 ( Fig. 1) of the bicycle 100 ( Fig. 1), the frame 102 and the swing arm 140 ( Fig. 1), with which the rear wheel 106 ( Fig. 1) of the bicycle 100, and / or another intermediate part or component. In the illustrated example, the first and second mounting portions 212, 214 are aligned along the axis 206 of the spring 200 and the damper 202. The air reservoir 204 and the damper body 210 are configured in a telescopic arrangement. As such, the damper body 210 is movable in and out of the air reservoir 204, as shown by the double-headed arrow. For example, during compression, the first and second mounting portions 212, 214 are forced toward each other, moving the damper body 210 into the air reservoir 204 (or moving the air reservoir 204 over the damper body 210). Conversely, during rebound, the first and second mounting portions 212, 214 are at least partially pushed (and / or pulled) apart by the force from the spring 200, which moves the damper body 210 out of the air reservoir 204.In one embodiment, the first mounting portion 212 and / or the second mounting portion 214 includes a rounded or circular recess or hole. The rounded or circular recess or hole may be configured for rotatable support on a frame or frame part of a bicycle. The first mounting portion 212 may be fixedly attached to the cap 208. The second mounting portion 214 may be fixedly attached to a tube or other part of the damper body 210.

[0024] Generally, compression of the shock absorber 138 is followed by rebound. The exemplary damper 202 of Fig. 2 has the ability to independently adjust the compression and rebound rates. This type of control allows the shock absorber 138 to be configured for specific driving types and preferences.

[0025] In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 138 includes a reservoir 216 (sometimes referred to as a shock can or shock piggy-bag-can). The reservoir 216 is disposed externally of the spring 200 and the damper 202. The reservoir 216 is used to collect excess damper fluid when the shock absorber 138 is compressed and / or rebounded. Specifically, during compression and rebound, the damper fluid is directed between the damper body 210 and the reservoir 216. The flow of damper fluid between the damper body 210 and the reservoir 216 can be controlled to affect the damping rate of the shock absorber 138, as disclosed in further detail herein. This type of shock absorber with an external reservoir has numerous advantages.For example, the use of reservoir 216 keeps nitrogen (or other pneumatic fluid) away from the main body (e.g., spring 200 and damper 202) of shock absorber 138, reducing overall heat buildup. Also, the load sharing of a shock between two compression circuits can make the shock feel less severe. Furthermore, reservoirs are often larger and can also be used to accommodate larger internal floating pistons. This results in a more linear stroke, and the amount of shock ramping toward the ends of its stroke can be less.

[0026] In this example, reservoir 216 is connected to cap 208. Reservoir 216 extends downward along one side of air canister 204. Reservoir 216 may be aligned along an axis 218 that is parallel and offset from axis 206 of spring 200 and damper 202. In other examples, reservoir 216 may be connected to another part of spring 200 and / or damper 202, such as the side of air canister 204.

[0027] In the illustrated example, the control device 142 is connected to the reservoir 216. More specifically, in this example, the control device 142 is connected to a top surface 219 of the reservoir 216. As disclosed in further detail herein, the control device 142 includes electronic components to actuate a flow control element and control the damping rate of the shock absorber 138. In the illustrated example, the control device 142 includes an activation button 220. In some examples, a user can press the activation button 220 to turn the control device 142 on or off and / or toggle between an active mode and a sleep mode. In some examples, the control device 142 deactivates (e.g., enters a sleep mode) if no actuations occur within a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 minutes).In other examples, the control device 142 remains active until a user presses the activation button 220 again to turn the control device 142 off. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the control device 142 is used to change damper states. For example, a single press may cause the control device 142 to enter a first damper state (e.g., an open state), and a double press may cause the control device 142 to enter a second damper state (e.g., a closed state or a lock mode). In the illustrated example, the control device 142 also includes an indicator light 222. In some examples, the indicator light 222 illuminates for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 seconds) when a state change is made (e.g., via manual selection or automatic selection).In some examples, the color of indicator light 222 changes to indicate the remaining charge level in the battery of control device 142. Additionally or alternatively, indicator light 222 may also illuminate to indicate to a user that control device 142 is activated or powered on. If indicator light 222 is not illuminated after the user presses activation button 222, this may indicate to the user that the battery of control device 142 needs to be recharged.

[0028] Fig. 3 is a side view of the shock absorber 138. Some of the internal components of the shock absorber 138 are shown in dashed lines. In the illustrated example, the damper 202 includes a stem 300 connected to and extending from the cap 208. A fixed piston 302 is connected (e.g., via threaded engagement) to an upper end 304 of the damper body 210. In the illustrated example, the damper body 210 defines a first chamber 306. The stem 300 extends through the fixed piston 302 and into the first chamber 306. The stem 300 slides in and out of the damper body 210 through the fixed piston 302 as the shock absorber 138 compresses and rebounds. The fixed piston 302 is slidable within the air reservoir 204.During compression (when the air reservoir 204 and the damper body 210 move toward each other), the fixed piston 302 is pushed into the air reservoir 204, compressing a gas (e.g., air) within the air reservoir 204. After the compression force is released, the compressed gas in the air reservoir 204 acts against the fixed piston 302, pushing the fixed piston 302 (and thus the damper body 210) outward from the air reservoir 204. In other examples, the air reservoir 204 may be filled with other types of fluid (e.g., oil). Furthermore, while in this example the spring 200 is implemented by the air reservoir 204, in other examples a coil spring may be used.

[0029] The first chamber 306 of the damper body 210 is filled with fluid. The fluid may, for example, be oil, such as a mineral oil-based damping fluid. In other examples, other types of damping fluids may also be used (for example, silicone or glycol-type fluids). A piston 308 is connected to a distal end of the stem 300. A fluid flow path 310 is defined between the first chamber 306 in the damper body 210 and a second chamber 312 defined in the reservoir 210. In this example, the fluid flow path 310 at least partially passes through the piston 308, the stem 300, and the cap 208. The piston 308 slides within the first chamber 306 of the damper body 210 as the shock absorber 138 compresses and extends.For example, when the shock absorber 138 is compressed, the piston 308 is moved toward a lower end 314 of the damper body 210 and into the first chamber 306, which decreases the volume in the first chamber 306 and thus increases the pressure of the fluid in the first chamber 306. As a result, the fluid in the first chamber 306 is forced up through the fluid flow path 310 and into the second chamber 312 in the reservoir 216. Conversely, during rebound, the piston 308 is moved in the opposite direction, that is, away from the lower end 314 of the damper body 210 and toward the upper end 304 of the damper body 210. The rebound movement is driven at least in part by the spring 200. For example, after the compression force is released, the air reservoir 204 causes the damper body 210 to move away from the cap 208, which causes the piston 308 to slide (upward) in the first chamber 306, thereby expanding the shock absorber 138.This movement causes a drop in the temperature of the fluid in the first chamber 306, which moves the fluid from the second chamber 312 through the fluid flow path 310 and back into the first chamber 306. This movement or flow of fluid between the first and second chambers 306, 312 causes the damping effect. As disclosed in further detail herein, the exemplary shock absorber 138 includes a flow control element disposed in the fluid flow path 310 that controls the fluid flow between the first chamber 306 and the second chamber 312 to affect the compression and rebound damping rates.

[0030] While in Fig. 3, the controller 142 is implemented in conjunction with a shock absorber design having an external reservoir, it should be understood that the exemplary controller 142 and the teachings herein may also be similarly implemented in conjunction with a shock absorber damper that does not have an external reservoir. In particular, other damper designs include two chambers in the damper body 210 that are divided by the piston 308. In such a design, the piston 308 may include a flow control element (e.g., a valve) to control the fluid flow between the two chambers to thereby provide the damping effect. The electronic controller 142 may be used to actuate the flow control element to adjust or modify the state of the damper.

[0031] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the exemplary shock absorber 138. In Fig. 4, the control device 142 is shown separated from the reservoir 216. In this example, the control device 142 is removably connected to the reservoir 216 via threaded fasteners 400 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. In other examples, the control device 142 may be connected to the reservoir 216 via other mechanical and / or chemical fastening techniques. In some examples, the control device 142 is removably connected to the reservoir 216 so that the control device 142 can be swapped out or replaced with a different control device (e.g., if the control device 142 becomes inoperative or defective). This allows a user to easily replace the control device 142 with a different control device without replacing the entire shock absorber 138.In other examples, the control device 142 may be permanently connected to the reservoir 216.

[0032] In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 138 includes a head 402 that forms the top 219 of the reservoir 216. The head 402 defines an internal dry section 404 that is separated by an internal wet section (in Fig. 8) is isolated within the reservoir 216 containing the fluid. The shock absorber 138 includes a sleeve 408 extending through the head 402 between the internal dry section 404 and the internal wet section.

[0033] In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 138 includes an actuator 408. The actuator 408 is connected to a flow control element in the reservoir 216. The actuator 408 can be rotated to adjust or modify the state of the fluid control element and thus influence the damping rate of the shock absorber 138. In the illustrated example, the actuator 408 extends through the sleeve 406 between the internal dry section 404 and the internal wet section.

[0034] When the control device 142 is connected to the head 402 of the reservoir 216, the control device 142 engages the actuator 408. The control device 142 includes a moving device such as a motor (in Fig. 15), which, when activated, rotates the actuator 408 and therefore actuates the flow control element to influence the damping rate. In the example shown, the actuator 408 has a first projection 410. The first projection 410 mates with a corresponding slot in a drive coupling in the Fig. 5. In this example, the first protrusion 410 has a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, the first protrusion 410 may have a different shape.

[0035] Fig. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the control device 142. As in Fig. 5, the control device 142 includes a drive coupling 500 having a slot 502. The slot 502 is configured to receive the first projection 410 ( Fig. 4) of the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4). When the control device 142 is connected to the head 402 ( Fig. 4) of the reservoir 216 ( Fig. 4), the first protrusion 410 of the actuator 408 extends into the slot 502 of the drive clutch 500. As disclosed in further detail herein, the controller 142 may drive (e.g., rotate) the drive clutch 500 to rotate the actuator 408, and thus affect the damping rate of the shock absorber 138.

[0036] In the example shown by Fig. 5, the control device 142 has a housing 504. The housing 504 has a bore 506 (for example, a recess). In this example, the drive coupling 500 is arranged in the bore 506. When the control device 142 is connected to the head 402 ( Fig. 4) of the reservoir 216 ( Fig. 4), the sleeve 406 ( Fig. 4) into the bore 506, and the first projection 410 ( Fig. 4) of the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4) extends into the slot 502 of the drive coupling 500. In the illustrated example, the control device 142 has a seal 508 (e.g., an O-ring) in the bore 506 to provide a tight boundary between the housing 504 and the sleeve 406.

[0037] To power the movement device (e.g., the motor) and other electronic components, the exemplary control device 142 includes a battery 510. The battery 510 may include one or more batteries (e.g., a battery pack). In this example, the battery 510 is removably connected to a terminal on the housing 504, which will be described in further detail in connection with the Fig. 15 and Fig. 19. In the illustrated example, the battery 510 is removably connected to the housing 504 via a latch 512. In other examples, the battery 510 may be removably connected to the housing 504 via other mechanisms. The battery 510 may be removed from the housing 504 and recharged and / or may be recharged while attached to the housing 504. In other examples, the battery 510 may be charged while the battery 510 remains installed on the housing 504. For example, the battery 510 and the housing 504 may have a charging port (e.g., a coaxial DC power port, a USB-A port, a USB-B port, a mini-USB port, a micro-USB port, etc.), and a power cable may be plugged into the charging port to charge the battery 510. In some examples, the battery 510 need not be removable from the housing 504. When the control device 142 is connected to the head 402 ( Fig. 4), the battery 510 extends along one side of the reservoir 216 ( Fig. 2), which reduces (e.g., minimizes) the overall height added by the control device 142 to the shock absorber 138. In other examples, the control device 142 need not include an integrated battery. Instead, the control device 142 may be connected to a battery external to the control device 142. For example, some bicycles include a battery (e.g., mounted on the frame) for electrical assistance. In such an example, the control device 142 may be powered by the battery on the bicycle. In one implementation, a battery mounting cover 511 may be included to protect the battery mounting portions during shipping.

[0038] Fig. Figure 6 is a partially exploded view of the exemplary shock absorber 138. In particular, the reservoir 216 is shown in exploded view, but the damper 202 is not shown in exploded view. The air tank 204 and the control device 142 are shown in Fig. 6 not shown. As in Fig. 6, the stem 300 of the damper 202 extends from the cap 208 and through the fixed piston 302 into the damper body 210.

[0039] As described above, the reservoir 216 is connectable to the cap 208. In this example, the head 402 of the reservoir 216 is connected to the cap 208 via threaded fasteners 600 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. The threaded fasteners 600 extend through the openings 602 in the head 402. In other examples, the head 402 may be connected to the cap 208 using other mechanical and / or chemical fastening techniques. A positioning pin 604 may be disposed between the head 402 and the cap 208.

[0040] The reservoir 216 includes a body 606 having a first end 608 and a second end 610 opposite the first end 608. The body 606 is tubular. When the reservoir 216 is assembled, the head 402 is connected (e.g., threaded) to the first end 608 of the body 606. The reservoir 216 includes a seal 612 (e.g., an O-ring) for creating a fluid seal between the head 402 and the first end 608 of the body 606. In the illustrated example, the reservoir 216 includes a plug 614 disposed in the second end 610 of the body 606 to seal the second end 610 of the body 606. The plug 614 is sealed in the body 606 via a seal 616 (e.g., an O-ring). A retaining ring 618 may be used to lock the plug 614 in the second end 610 of the body 606.The head 402 and the plug 614 seal the respective first and second ends 608, 610 of the body 606 so that a chamber is formed in the body 606.

[0041] In the example shown by Fig. 6, the reservoir 216 includes a high-pressure valve core 620 to be disposed in an opening in the plug 614. The high-pressure valve core 620 is used to add / remove pneumatic fluid, such as air or nitrogen, to / from a pneumatic pressure chamber in the body 606. A cap 622 and a seal 624 are to be disposed on the end of the high-pressure valve core 620.

[0042] In this example, the reservoir 216 includes an internal floating piston (IFP) 626 slidably disposed within the body 606. The IFP 626 serves to separate fluid sections within the body 606, as described in connection with Fig. 8 in further detail. A seal 628 (e.g., an O-ring) is disposed around the IFP 626 to prevent fluid from leaking between the two sections of the chamber. In some examples, a vent valve 630 is disposed in an opening through the IFP 626 to relieve excess pressure. A seal 632 (e.g., an O-ring) seals the vent valve 630. In other examples, the IFP need not be provided in the reservoir 216.

[0043] In the illustrated example, the shock absorber 138 includes a flow control element 634. In this example, the flow control element 634 is part of the reservoir 216. When the reservoir 216 is assembled, the flow control element 634 is disposed in the body 606. The flow control element 634 controls the fluid flow between the first chamber 306 ( Fig. 3) in the damper body 210 and the second chamber 312 ( Fig. 3) in the body 606. When the reservoir 216 is mounted, two retaining rings 636, 638 are used to secure the flow control element 634 to the head 402.

[0044] As described above, the top of the head 402 defines the internal dry section 404. The bottom of the head 402, which is connected to the body 606, forms an internal wet section. The head 402 includes a wall or barrier (in Fig. 8) that separates the internal dry section 404 from the internal wet section. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the head 402 has an opening 640. When the head 402 is attached to the cap 208, the opening 640 is aligned with another opening in the head 402, which forms the fluid flow path 310. A passageway is defined in the head 402 between the opening 640 and the internal wet section.

[0045] In Fig. 6, the actuator 408 is also shown. One end of the actuator 408 includes the first protrusion 410, and the opposite end of the actuator 408 includes a second protrusion 642. When the reservoir 216 is mounted, the second protrusion 642 of the actuator 408 extends into the flow control element 634. The actuator 408 can be rotated to adjust or modify a state of the flow control element 634 to effect a change in the damping rate. In this example, the second protrusion 642 has a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, the second protrusion 642 may be shaped differently.

[0046] As described above, when the reservoir 206 is mounted, the sleeve 406 extends through an opening in the barrier in the head 402. A seal 644 (e.g., an O-ring) is to be disposed between the sleeve 406 and the inner surface of the opening in the barrier. In the illustrated example, the reservoir 216 includes two bearings 646, 648, a seal 650 (e.g., an O-ring), and two retainers 652, 654 disposed within the sleeve 406. The bearings 646, 648, the seal 650, and the two retainers 652, 654 enable smooth rotation of the actuator 408 and also provide a sealing interface between the actuator 408 and the sleeve 406 to prevent fluid leakage between the internal wet section and the internal dry section 404. Another seal 651 (for example an O-ring) can also be used.

[0047] In the illustrated example, the reservoir 216 includes a biasing member 656 (e.g., a coil spring) and a check plate 658. The biasing member 656 biases the check plate 658 into engagement with the flow control member 634. This arrangement forms a check valve to allow fluid flow during rebound, as disclosed in further detail herein.

[0048] Fig. 7 is a side view of the components of the shock absorber 138 of Fig. 6 in the assembled state. The reservoir 216 is connected to the cap 208.

[0049] Fig. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the reservoir 216 and the cap 208 of the shock absorber 138 along line AA of Fig. 7. As in Fig. 8, the head 402 is connected to the cap 208 via the threaded fasteners 600 (one of which is shown in Fig. 8). In the illustrated example, the first end 608 of the body 606 is threadedly engaged with the head 402. The seal 612 is disposed between the head 402 and the body 606 to seal the first end 608 of the body 606 to the head 402. The plug 614 is inserted into and seals the second end 610 of the body 606. The reservoir 216 defines the second chamber 312 that receives or contains at least a portion of the damping fluid. The second chamber 312 is connected to the first chamber 306 ( Fig. 3) of the damper body 210 ( Fig. 3) in fluid communication.

[0050] As in Fig. 8, the IFP 626 is disposed within the body 606. The IFP 626 separates the second chamber 312 (e.g., an upper portion) from a third chamber 800 (e.g., a lower portion). In some examples, the third chamber 804 is filled with a pneumatic fluid, such as air or nitrogen. The IFP 626 moves up and down within the body 606 based on the pressure differential across the IFP 626. The pneumatic fluid in the third chamber 800 may have a higher pressure or a lower pressure than the damping fluid in the second chamber 312. When the shock absorber 138 is compressed, damping fluid is forced into the second chamber 312 and the IFP 626 is forced downward, thereby decreasing the volume of the third chamber 800 and compressing the pneumatic fluid in the third chamber 800. When the shock absorber 138 rebounds (for example, via the force of the spring 200), the volume of the first chamber 306 ( Fig. 3) in the damper body 210 ( Fig. 3) and the damping fluid flows from the second chamber 312 back into the first chamber 306 in the damper body 210. The compressed fluid in the second chamber 312 pushes against the IFP 626 to move the IFP 626 upward within the body 626. While an IFP is used in this example, in other examples, the reservoir 216 may not contain an IFP.

[0051] As in Fig. 8, the head 402 has a barrier 806 between the internal dry section 404 and an internal wet section 808. The sleeve 406 extends through an opening 810 in the barrier 806. The seal 644 is disposed in a gland 812 of the barrier 806 around the opening 810 to prevent fluid from leaking through the opening 810. In the illustrated example, the actuator 408 is disposed within the sleeve 406. The actuator 408 is rotatable within the sleeve 406.

[0052] As in Fig. 8, the flow control element 634 is disposed in the body 606 of the reservoir 216. A portion of the flow control element 634 extends into the sleeve 406 and engages the second projection 642 of the actuator 408. A cavity 814 is defined between the flow control element 634 and the barrier 806 of the head 402. The cavity 814 communicates with the opening 640 ( Fig. 6) in the head 402 via a passage in fluid communication that extends through the head 402. The flow control element 634 separates the cavity 814 from the second chamber 312. The flow control element 634 controls the fluid flow between the cavity 814 and the second chamber 312. Therefore, the fluid flow path 310 ( Fig. 3) between the first chamber 306 and the second chamber 316 by sections of the shaft 300 ( Fig. 3), the cap 208, the head 402, and the cavity 814. The flow control element 634 is disposed in the fluid flow path 310 (between the cavity 814 and the second chamber 312) and controls the fluid flow between the first chamber 306 ( Fig. 3) and the second chamber 312. As in Fig. 8, the actuator 408 and the flow control element 634 are aligned along an axis 816. The axis 816 is equal to or aligned with the axis 218 of Fig. 2.

[0053] Fig. 9 is an exploded view of the flow control element 634. In the illustrated example, the flow control element 634 includes a plug 900, a seal 901, a first seat 902, a retainer 904, a second seat 906, a guide 908, a first compression check plate 910, a first washer stack 912, a second compression check plate 914, a second washer stack 916, and a retaining nut 918.

[0054] When the flow control element 634 is mounted, the plug 900, the seal 901, the first seat 902, the holder 904, and the second seat 906 are arranged in the guide 908. The plug 900 has a threaded portion 920, a first engagement portion 922, a second engagement portion 924, and a stem portion 923 between the first and second engagement portions 922, 924. In the illustrated example, the stem portion 925 has an opening 927 that is connected to a bore defined in the threaded portion 920, as will be described in detail later in connection with Fig. 14. As explained in further detail herein, the plug 900 is movable within the guide 908 to control the fluid flow through the flow control element 634. When the flow control element 634 is mounted, the guide 908 extends through the first compression check plate 910, the first washer stack 912, the second compression check plate 914, and the second washer stack 916. In the illustrated example, the guide 908 has a threaded portion 926. The retaining nut 918 is to be threaded onto the threaded portion 926 of the guide 908 to secure the first compression check plate 910, the first washer stack 912, the second compression check plate 914, and the second washer stack 916 to the guide 908. As in Fig. 9, the first compression lock plate 910 includes a plurality of internal openings 928 (one of which is Fig. 9) extending through or over the first compression locking plate 910. The first compression locking plate 910 also includes a plurality of external openings 930 (of which Fig. 9) extending through or over the first compression locking plate 910.

[0055] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the flow control element 634 in the assembled state, and Fig. 11 is a side view of the flow control element 634 in the assembled state. As shown in the Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, the guide 908 extends through the first compression lock plate 910, the first washer stack 912, the second compression lock plate 914, and the second washer stack 916. The retaining nut 918 is threaded onto the guide 908.

[0056] As in Fig. 10, the guide 908 has a first opening 1000. The plug 900 is arranged in the first opening 1000. The plug 900 has a slot 1002. When the reservoir 216 is mounted, the second projection 642 ( Fig. 6 and Fig. 8) of the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4) into the slot 1002. When the flow control actuator 408 is rotated, the plug 900 rotates in the first opening 1000 of the guide 908.

[0057] Fig. 12 to Fig. 14 are cross-sectional views of the flow control element 634 along line BB of Fig. 11. Fig. 12 to Fig. 14 show the flow control element 634 in different operating states. In particular, Fig. 12 shows the flow control element 634 in an open state, Fig. 13 the flow control element 634 in a partially closed state (which may also be referred to as a partially open state), and shows Fig. 14 the flow control element 634 in the closed state.

[0058] In relation to Fig. 12, the guide 908 has a passage 1200 between the first opening 1000 and the second opening 1202 at an end opposite the guide 908. The first seat 902 is arranged in the passage 1200 and forms a first throttle opening 1204, and the second seat 906 is arranged in the passage 1200 and forms a second throttle opening 1206. The plug 900 is arranged in the passage 1200. The plug 900 is movable in the guide 908. In particular, the threaded portion 920 of the plug 900 engages the thread 1208 in the passage 1200 near the first opening 1000. When the plug 900 is rotated, the plug 900 translates (e.g., moves linearly) along the axis 816 in the passage 1200. In the Fig. In the position shown in Figure 12, the first engagement portion 922 of the plug 900 is spaced from the first seat 902, and the second engagement portion 924 is spaced from the second seat 906. This condition or position may be referred to as the fully open position.

[0059] During rebound and compression, fluid can be directed via the flow control element 634 between the cavity 814 ( Fig. 8) and the second chamber 312 ( Fig. 8). In the example shown, the guide 908 has several openings 1210 (of which Fig. 12 two are indicated). The openings 1210 are arranged around the guide 908 at a distance from each other. Any number of openings 1210 can be implemented (e.g., one opening, two openings, etc.). When the flow control element 634 is arranged in the reservoir 216 ( Fig. 8), the openings 1210 of the guide 908 are in fluid communication with the cavity 814 and the second opening 1201 of the guide 908 is in fluid communication with the second chamber 312 ( Fig. 8).

[0060] A compression flow path line 1212 is in Fig. 12. During compression, fluid flows from the cavity 814 ( Fig. 8) through the openings 1210 into the passage 1200, through the first and second throttle openings 1204, 1206 and through the second opening 1202 into the second chamber 800 ( Fig. 8). In this state, the flow control element 634 offers relatively low resistance (low damping) during compression.

[0061] During rebound, fluid may flow in the opposite direction along the flow path conduit 1212 via the flow control element 634. In addition, during rebound, fluid may flow via the first compression check plate 910 through the outer openings 930 (of which Fig. 12). (Although not fully shown, the openings 930 extend completely through the first compression lock plate 910.) A springback flow path line 1214 is shown in Fig. 12. When the flow control element 634 is mounted in the reservoir 216, the blocking plate 658 ( Fig. 6) is clamped against the top of the first compression locking plate 910 and blocks the outer openings 930. During compression, the outer openings 930 remain blocked by the locking plate 658. However, during rebound, the pressure of the fluid in the outer openings 930 pushes the locking plate 658 away from the first compression locking plate 910 (against the bias of the clamping element 656 ( Fig. 6)) and allows the fluid to flow into the cavity 814 ( Fig. 8) flows.

[0062] In relation to Fig. 13, the plug 900 has been rotated such that the plug 900 has been displaced in the passage 1200 of the guide 908 towards the first and second seats 902, 906. In the Fig. In the position shown in Figure 13, the first engaging portion 922 of the plug 900 is spaced apart from the first seat 902. However, the second engaging portion 924 of the plug 900 engages the second seat 906, preventing fluid from flowing through the second restricting orifice 1206 of the second seat 906. Therefore, fluid is prevented from flowing into / out of the passage 1200 through the second opening 1202 of the guide 908. This position or state may be referred to as a partially open or partially closed state.

[0063] A compression flow path line 1300 is in Fig. 13. During compression, fluid flows out of the cavity 814 ( Fig. 8) through the openings 1210 in the guide 908 into the passage 1200, through the first throttle opening 1204 in the first seat 902 and several openings 1302 (of which in Fig. 13) in the guide 908 and into the second compression check plate 914. The openings 1302 are spaced apart around the guide 908. Any number of openings 1302 may be implemented (e.g., one opening, two openings, etc.). The second compression check plate 914 is covered with the second shim stack 916. The fluid in the second compression check plate 914 pushes on the second shim stack 916 to deflect, thereby allowing fluid to flow into the second chamber 312. In this state, the flow control element 634 offers a relatively high resistance (strong damping) during compression.

[0064] During springback, the second engagement portion 924 of the plug 900 and the second washer stack 906 prevent the fluid from flowing through the passage 1200. Instead, the fluid flows via the first compression check plate 910 via the springback flow path conduit 1214, which is the same as described above in connection with Fig. 12 revealed.

[0065] In relation to Fig. 14, the plug 900 has been rotated such that the plug 900 has been displaced in the passage 1200 of the guide 908 further towards the first and second seats 902, 906. In the Fig. In the position shown in Figure 14, the first engagement portion 922 of the plug 900 engages the first seat 902 to prevent fluid flow through the first orifice 1204 of the first seat 902. Additionally, the second engagement portion 924 engages the second seat 906 to prevent fluid from flowing through the second orifice 1206 of the second seat 906. As such, fluid is prevented from flowing through the passage 1200. This position or state may be referred to as the closed state or lockout mode. In this lockout mode, the flow control element 634 provides relatively strong damping to substantially limit the movement of the shock absorber 138.

[0066] A compression flow path line 1400 is in Fig. 14. When the pressure of the fluid in the cavity 814 ( Fig. 8) reaches a threshold, the fluid flows through the internal openings 928 in the first compression lock plate 910 and deflects the first shim stack 912 to allow the fluid to flow into the second chamber 312 ( Fig. 8). Therefore, in this lock mode, the flow control element 634 still allows some fluid to flow under relatively high forces, such as when a rider comes down from a jump and lands hard on the ground. This makes it possible to release some of the pressure in the first chamber 306 ( Fig. 3) of the damper body 210 ( Fig. 3) to be paid.

[0067] During springback, the second engagement portion 924 of the plug 900 and the second washer stack 916 prevent the fluid from flowing through the passage 1200. Instead, fluid flows through the first compression check plate 910 via the springback flow path conduit 1214, which is the same as described above in connection with Fig. 12. While in the Fig. 12 to Fig. 14, it is understood that the plug 900 can also be moved to various positions between any of these three positions. Moving the plug 900 further or closer to the first and / or second seats 902, 906 affects the damping rate. The plug 900 can be moved to any position to achieve a desired or optimal flow rate.

[0068] Briefly back to Fig. 8, the top of the guide 908 is disposed within the sleeve 406. The actuator 408 has a flange 818 that engages the guide 908 and seals the first opening 1000 of the guide 908. The second protrusion 642 of the actuator 408 extends into the slot 1002 in the plug 900. When the actuator 408 is rotated, the actuator 408 rotates the plug 900, which causes the plug 900 to translate (e.g., move linearly) within the guide 908 along the axis 816. The second protrusion 648 has a sufficient length to remain engaged in the slot 1002 while the plug 900 moves up and down within the guide 908. As disclosed in further detail herein, the shock absorber 138 includes a motor that, in response to a command signal (e.g., a wireless signal), rotates the actuator 408 to thereby move the plug 900 to change the damping rate of the shock absorber 138.

[0069] In some examples, the flow control element 634 includes a feature to reduce the pressure differential across the plug 900, which reduces (e.g., minimizes) the force required to move the plug 900. For example, according to Fig. 14, the plug 900 has the opening 927. The opening 927 establishes a fluid connection of the passage 1200 (between the first and second seats 902, 906) and the bore 1400 formed in the threaded portion 920 of the plug 900. Therefore, the opening 927 allows fluid to bypass the first seat 902 and the first engagement portion 922 and fill the threaded portion 920 of the plug 900 and the upper part of the guide 908. (The upper part of the guide 908 is connected via the flange 818 ( Fig. 8) of the actuator 408 ( Fig. 8) sealed.) If the plug 900 is in the Fig. 14, the plug 900 engages the seal 901, which prevents the high pressure fluid in the cavity 814 ( Fig. 8) up into the bore 1500 and the upper part of the guide 908. In this respect, the pressure on both sides of the first engagement portion 922 of the plug is substantially equalized with the low-pressure fluid in the passage 1200 and / or the second chamber 312 ( Fig. 8). This helps reduce the pressure differential across the plug 900 and thus the force required to move the plug 900 up and down in the passageway 1200. As a result, a smaller, less powerful motor can be used. As such, in this example, the flow control element 634 operates as a spool valve. In other examples, in addition to or as an alternative to the opening 927 formed in the plug 900, a channel or passageway may be formed in the guide 908 that fluidly connects the passageway 1200 (between the first and second seats 902, 906) and the upper portion of the guide 908, similarly bypassing the first seat 902 and the first engagement portion 922. In other examples, the flow control element 634 does not include a pressure compensation feature.

[0070] Fig. 15 is an exploded view of the exemplary control device 142. The control device 142 includes a connector 1500 (e.g., a battery interface or adapter) for receiving the battery 510 ( Fig. 5). In the example shown, the connector 1500 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 1502 with electrical pins 1504 (one of which is Fig. 15). When the control device 142 is mounted, the PCB 1502 is arranged in the housing 504. The PCB 1502 is connected to the housing 504 via threaded fasteners 1506 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) (one of which is shown in Fig. 15). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. The connector 1500 also includes a cover plate 1510 that is connectable to the housing 504 above the PCB 1502. A gasket 1512 may be disposed between the cover plate 1510 and the housing 504. The cover plate 1510 is connected to the housing 504 via threaded fasteners 1514 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) (one of which is shown in Fig. 15). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. The cover plate 1510 has openings 1518 (one of which is Fig. 15). When the control device 142 is mounted, the electrical pins 1504 are aligned with corresponding ones of the openings 1518. The electrical pins 1504 may extend partially into or completely through the openings 1518 in the cover plate 1510. The control device 142 includes seals 1508 (one of which is shown in Fig. 15) that seal the openings 1518 through which the electrical pins 1504 extend. The battery 510 ( Fig. 5) has corresponding pins or contacts that mate with the arrangement of electrical pins 1504 and openings 1518. Thus, when the battery 510 is connected to the terminal 1500, the pins on the battery 510 contact the electrical pins 1504 to supply power to the electrical components of the controller 142. In the illustrated example, the controller 142 includes a seal 1516. When the battery 1510 is connected to the terminal 1500, the seal 1516 helps prevent liquid and debris from contacting the electrical pin connection.

[0071] As disclosed above, the control device 142 includes the latch 512, which can be used to secure the battery 510 to the connector 1500. In the illustrated example, the latch 512 has a tab 1520. The latch 512 is pivotally connected to the housing 504 via a pin 1522. When the battery 510 ( Fig. 5) is placed on the terminal 1500, the latch 512 can be rotated toward the battery 510 until the tab 1520 engages a corresponding projection on the battery 510 to thereby secure the battery 510 to the terminal 1500.

[0072] In the illustrated example, the housing 504 defines a cavity 1524. The cavity 1524 serves to accommodate one or more components. At least a portion of the housing 1504 may be constructed of a rigid material, such as plastic or metal, to protect the components within the housing 504.

[0073] To operate the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4) to move (for example to rotate) and thereby the flow control element 634 ( Fig. 6), the control device 142 includes a movement device. In this example, the movement device is implemented as a motor 1526 (for example, an electric DC motor). As such, the motor 1526 is used to move the flow control element 634 ( Fig. 6) to control the fluid flow between the first chamber 306 ( Fig. 3) and the second chamber 312 ( Fig. 8). In other examples, a different type of movement device may be implemented, such as a solenoid valve or a linear slide. When the control device 142 is mounted, the motor 1526 is disposed in the cavity 1524 of the housing 504. The motor 1526 is connected to the housing 504 via threaded fasteners 1528 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) (one of which is shown in Fig. 15). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. In this example, the motor 1526 is part of a motor assembly 1530 used in conjunction with the Fig. 16 to Fig. 18 is discussed in further detail.

[0074] In some examples, the controller 142 includes one or more gears (e.g., a gear assembly) to transmit the rotational movement from the motor 1526 to the actuator 408 ( Fig. 8) and thus on the plug 900 ( Fig. 7). In this example, the control device 142 includes a worm gear drive. For example, the control device 142 of Fig. 15, a screw 1532 driven by the motor 1526. The screw 1532 has a first end 1534 that is to be inserted into the motor assembly 1530. The motor 1526 can be activated to rotate the screw 1532 in a first direction or a second direction opposite the first direction. When the control device 142 is mounted, the screw 1532 is disposed in the cavity 1524. A second end 1536 of the screw 1532 is supported in and rotates within a bearing 1538, which is also disposed in the cavity 1524.

[0075] The control device 142 also includes a worm gear 1540 (also referred to as a worm wheel). When the control device 142 is assembled, the worm gear 1540 is disposed in the cavity 1524 and engages (e.g., meshes) with the worm 1532. The worm gear 1540 is fixedly connected or integrated with the drive coupling 500. When the control device 142 is assembled and connected to the head 402 ( Fig. 4), the first projection 410 ( Fig. 4) on the actuator 408 ( Fig. 8) engages with the drive coupling 500. The worm gear 1540 and the drive coupling 500 are aligned along the axis 816, along which the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4) and the plug 900 ( Fig. 9). Therefore, when motor 1526 is activated, motor 1526 rotates worm 1532, which rotates worm gear 1540, which rotates actuator 408 to move plug 900. Thus, in this example, motor 1526 is operatively connected to plug 900 via the worm gear.

[0076] In the illustrated example, the control device 142 includes two bearings 1542, 1544 to enable smooth rotation of the drive coupling 500 and the worm gear 1540. A cover 1546 is used to connect the drive coupling 500 and the worm gear 1540 to the housing 504 between the two bearings 1542, 1544. The cover 1546 is connected to the housing 504 via threaded fasteners 1548 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) (one of which is shown in Fig. 15). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used.

[0077] The worm gear assembly allows the motor 1526 to be oriented generally orthogonal to the rotational axis of the drive coupling 500. In particular, the motor 1526 and the worm 1532 are oriented along an axis 1550, while the drive coupling 500, the worm gear 1540, and the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4) and the plug 900 ( Fig. 9) are oriented along the axis 816. In this example, the axis 1550 is orthogonal to and offset from the axis 816. This arrangement allows the height of the control device 142 to remain relatively small, compared to orienting the motor 1526 in line or parallel to the axis 816. Additionally, worm gear assemblies are advantageous because the worm gear assembly allows efficient rotation in one direction by the worm 1532, but prevents or reduces counter-directional drive by the worm gear 1540. For example, after the motor 1526 has removed the plug 900 ( Fig. 9) to a desired position in the flow control element 634 ( Fig. 6), the pressure on the plug 900 does not drive the motor 1526 in the opposite direction. Therefore, the motor 1526 does not need to provide braking or constant torque to hold the plug 900 in a desired position. Furthermore, no locking or tensioning element is required to hold the plug 900 in the desired position. In addition to being offset from the axis 816, the axis 1550 of the motor 1526 is also offset from the axis 206 ( Fig. 2) offset (for example, not aligned with) the axis along which the spring 200 and the damper 202 are aligned and move.

[0078] While in this example a worm gear assembly is used to transmit the rotary motion between the motor 1526 and the actuator 408 ( Fig. 4), other drive assemblies may also be used in other examples. For example, the motor 1526 may be directly connected to the drive coupling 500 or the actuator 408. In other examples, one or more gears or gear assemblies may be disposed between the motor 1526 and the actuator 408.

[0079] To control the motor 1526, the control device 142 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 1552. The PCB 1552 has a circuit 1553. The circuit 1553 implements a controller for activating and controlling the motor 1526 (e.g., activating and deactivating the motor, controlling the direction or rotation, controlling the speed of the motor, etc.) and / or any other operation of the control device 142. For example, the circuit 1553 is to activate the motor 1526 based on a command signal to actuate the flow control element 634 ( Fig. 6). The circuit 1553 may include, for example, analog or digital circuit(s), logic circuit(s), programmable processor(s), programmable controller(s), application-specific integrated circuit(s) (ASIC(s)), programmable logic device(s) (PLD(s)), and / or field-programmable logic device(s) (FPLD(s)). While in this example the circuit 1553 is implemented in the PCB 1552, in other examples, a portion of the circuit may also be implemented in the PCB 1552, and other portions of the circuit may be implemented in another circuit board or hardware component. Furthermore, the circuit 1553 may be implemented in one or more other types of circuit boards or hardware, such as a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) or a flexible printed circuit. The electrical pins 1504 on the PCB 1502 are electrically connected to the PCB 1552.When the control device 142 is assembled, the PCB 1552 is disposed within the cavity 1524. The PCB 1552 is disposed over the motor assembly 1530, the worm 1532, and the worm gear 1540. The worm 1552 is connected to the housing 1504 via threaded fasteners 1555 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) (one of which is shown in FIG. Fig. 15). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used.

[0080] In some examples, the control device 142 includes a wireless transceiver 1556 with an antenna for transmitting and / or receiving signals, such as command signals. For example, the wireless transceiver 1556 may receive wireless command signals from the control unit 154 ( Fig. 1). The wireless command signal can be generated automatically (for example, based on measured parameters of the bicycle 100) and / or via user input. The circuit 1553 on the PCB 1552 processes the commands and activates the motor 1526 accordingly. For example, the wireless transceiver 1556 can receive a command to activate the damper 202 ( Fig. 2) into a lock mode ( Fig. 14). In this case, the PCB 1552 activates the motor 1526 to move the plug 900 (Fig. 900) of the flow control element 634 ( Fig. 6) to the Fig. 14. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless transceiver 1556 may transmit information, such as the current state of the damper, to a remote device (e.g., the controller 154).

[0081] In this example, the wireless transceiver 1556 is disposed on the PCB 1552. In other examples, the wireless transceiver 1556 may also be separate from the PCB 1552. The wireless transceiver 1556 may send or receive data using any wireless protocol, such as Bluetooth®. While in this example, the circuitry 1553 for controlling the motor 1526 and the wireless transceiver 1556 are implemented on the PCB 1552, in another example, the circuitry 1553 and / or the wireless transceiver 1556 may be disposed on multiple PCBs. Furthermore, while in this example the controller 142 includes a wireless transceiver capable of sending and receiving signals, in other examples the controller 142 may only include a receiver for receiving signals.

[0082] In the illustrated example, the control device 142 includes an inner cover 1558 and an outer cover 1560. When the control device 142 is assembled, the inner and outer covers 1558, 1560 are connected to the housing 504 above the cavity 1524 to protect the components within the cavity 1524. The outer cover 1560 is connected to the housing 504 via threaded fasteners 1562 (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) (one of which is shown in Fig. 15). Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. The outer cover 1560 forms part of the housing 504 of the control device 142, which houses and protects the delicate electronic components. In some examples, the inner cover 1558 is a gasket that may be constructed of a compliant material (e.g., rubber). When the outer cover 1560 is connected to the housing 504, the inner cover 1558 is compressed, helping to seal and protect the inside of the housing 504 from liquids and debris. While in this example the control device 142 includes two covers, in other examples the control device 142 may include only one cover (e.g., only the outer cover 1560) or more than two covers.

[0083] As disclosed above, the PCB 1552 is disposed over the motor assembly 1530 and other parts within the cavity 1524 of the housing 504. In some examples, this placement reduces interference with wireless signals to / from the wireless transceiver 1556 compared to other locations. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, at least a portion of the housing 504 is constructed of radio frequency transparent material to prevent signal interference. For example, the inner and outer covers 1558, 1560 may be constructed of radio frequency transparent materials such as Teflon, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and / or other polymers or materials.

[0084] In Fig. 15, the threaded fasteners 400 are also shown. The threaded fasteners 400 serve to connect the control device 142 to the top of the reservoir 216. Therefore, in this example, the control device 142, including the PCB 1552, the motor 1526, and the battery 510, is removably connected to the top of the reservoir 216. However, in other examples, one or more components of the control device 142 may also be fixedly connected and / or otherwise integrated with the reservoir 216.

[0085] In Fig. 15 also shows the power button 220 and the indicator light 222. The power button 220 and the indicator light 222 are connected to the outer cover 1560 and interconnected to the PCB 1552. In Fig. 15 also shows the seal 508.

[0086] Fig. 16 is an exploded view of the motor assembly 1530 including the motor 1526. The motor 1526 has electrical wires or conductors 1600 to be connected to the PCB 1552 ( Fig. 15). The motor assembly 1530 includes a drive coupling 1602 with a slot 1604. The slot 1604 serves to receive the first end 1534 ( Fig. 15) the snail 1532 ( Fig. 15). When motor 1526 is activated, motor 1526 rotates drive clutch 1602, which thereby rotates auger 1532.

[0087] In this example, motor assembly 1530 utilizes a planetary gear assembly to drive drive clutch 1602. Motor 1526 has an output shaft 1606 extending from one end 1608 of motor 1526. A drive gear 1610 (which may also be referred to as a sun gear) is fixedly connected to output shaft 1606. When motor 1526 is energized, motor 1526 rotates output shaft 1606, which rotates drive gear 1610.

[0088] In the illustrated example, the motor assembly 1530 includes three planetary gears 1612. The drive clutch 1602 has a column 1614 extending from a bottom of the drive clutch 1602. When the motor assembly 1530 is assembled, the planetary gears 1612 engage (e.g., mesh) with the drive gear 1610, and the column 1614 extends past the drive clutch 1602 to a center of one of the planetary gears 1612. When the drive gear 1610 is rotated by the motor 1526, the drive gear 1610 rotates the planetary gears 1612 around the drive gear 1610, which rotates the drive clutch 1602. The drive clutch 1602 rotates the worm 1532 ( Fig. 15), which rotates the worm gear 1540 and the drive coupling 500, which rotates the actuator 408, which drives the plug 900 ( Fig. 9) and causes the plug to move within the guide 908. In this manner, rotation of the output shaft 1606 causes displacement (linear movement) of the plug 900. In other examples, the motor assembly 1530 may also use other types of gear assemblies to drive the drive clutch 1602.

[0089] In the illustrated example, the motor assembly 1530 includes a first bracket 1616 and a second bracket 1618. When the motor assembly 1530 is assembled, the first and second brackets 1616, 1618 are connected to the motor 1526. In particular, the first bracket 1616 is connectable to the end 1608 of the motor 1526 via threaded fasteners 1620, and the second bracket 1618 is connectable to the first bracket 1616 via threaded fasteners 1622. Any number of threaded fasteners may be used. The first carrier 1616 has an opening 1624. When the motor assembly 1530 is mounted, the drive gear 1610 extends through the opening 1624. Furthermore, the drive clutch 1602 and the planet gears 1612 are disposed between the first and second carriers 1616, 1618. A plate 1626 is disposed between the planet gears 1612 and a top surface 1628 of the first carrier 1616.As the planet gears 1612 rotate, they slide on the plate 1626 around the drive gear 1610.

[0090] In the illustrated example, the second carrier 1618 includes an opening 1628 to receive the first end 1534 ( Fig. 15) the snail 1532 ( Fig. 15). The first end 1534 of the worm 1532 extends through the opening 1628 into the second carrier 1618 and into the slot 1604 of the drive coupling 1602. A bearing 1630 is provided in the opening 1628 to enable smooth rotation of the drive coupling 1602 and the worm 1532.

[0091] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the motor assembly 1530 in the assembled state. As shown in Fig. 17, the first and second supports 1616, 1618 are connected via the threaded fasteners 1622. The first and second supports 1616, 1618 include openings 1700 to receive the threaded fasteners 1528 ( Fig. 15) to connect the motor assembly 1530 to the housing 504 ( Fig. 15) to connect.

[0092] Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the motor assembly 1530 along line CC of Fig. 16. As in Fig. 18, the threaded fasteners 1620 connect the first carrier 1616 to the end 1608 of the motor 1526. The drive gear 1610, the planet gears 1612, and the drive clutch 1602 are arranged between the first and second carriers 1616, 1618. As shown in Fig. 18, the column 1614 on the drive clutch 1602 extends into the center of one of the planet gears 1612. Therefore, when the planet gear 1612 rotates about the drive gear 1610, the planet gear 1612 rotates the drive clutch 1602 about the axis 1550.

[0093] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the control device 142 along line DD of Fig. 4. As in Fig. 19, the first end 1534 of the worm 1532 extends into the slot 1604 of the drive coupling 1602. Therefore, when the motor 1526 rotates the drive coupling 1602, the drive coupling 1602 rotates the worm 1532. The motor 1526 and the worm 1532 are aligned along the axis 1550.

[0094] As in Fig. 19, the PCB 1552 is disposed over the motor 1526 near the inner and outer covers 1558, 1560. As disclosed above, in some examples, the first and second covers 1558, 1560 are constructed of a radio frequency permeable material that allows wireless signals to propagate through the first and second covers 1558, 1560. In other examples, the PCB 1552 may be disposed in a different location. In Fig. 19 also shows the connection 1500 with which the battery 510 ( Fig. 5) is connected.

[0095] In some examples, the PCB 1552, the motor 1526, and the battery 510 are parts of the controller 142, which is removably connected to the reservoir 216. However, in other examples, one or more of the PCB 1552, the motor 1526, and / or the battery 510 may also be integrated into the reservoir 216 or another part of the shock absorber 138. For example, the PCB 1552, the motor 1526, and / or the battery 510 may also be disposed in the internal dry portion 404 of the head 402.

[0096] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to serve as a complete description of all elements and features of the apparatus and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Upon review of the disclosure, numerous other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized or derived from the disclosure, so that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, the illustrations are merely representative and need not be to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized.Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive.

[0097] While this description contains numerous specifics, these should not be considered limitations on the scope of the invention or the claimed subject matter, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features described in this description in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any subcombination.Furthermore, although features may be described above as operating in certain combinations and may initially be claimed as such, in some cases some or more features from the claimed combination may be deleted from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variant of the sub-combination.

[0098] Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that a subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the specification.

[0099] The Summary of Disclosure is provided in accordance with 37 CFR §1.72(b) and is presented with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Moreover, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure should not be interpreted to reflect an intent that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the present claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to fewer than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments.Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing alone if it separately defines the claimed subject matter.

[0100] It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be considered as illustrative rather than restrictive, and it is to be understood that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be read as limiting them to the described order or elements unless expressly indicated. Therefore, all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the following claims and their equivalents are claimed as the invention.

[0101] Exemplary bicycle suspension components and control devices are described herein. An exemplary shock absorber includes a damper body defining a first chamber and a reservoir defining a second chamber. A flow path is defined between the first chamber and the second chamber. The exemplary shock absorber also includes a flow control element disposed in the flow path and a motor for actuating the flow control element to influence fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber. Aspects of the invention Aspect 1: Shock absorber for a bicycle, the shock absorber comprising: a damper body defining a first chamber; a reservoir defining a second chamber, a flow path being defined between the first chamber and the second chamber; a flow control element arranged in the flow path; and a motor for operating the flow control element to influence a fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber. Aspect 2: The shock absorber of aspect 1, further including a printed circuit board (PCB) having circuitry to activate the motor to actuate the flow control element based on a command signal. Aspect 3: The shock absorber of aspect 2, further comprising a wireless transceiver to receive the command signal. Aspect 4: The shock absorber according to aspect 3, wherein the wireless transceiver is arranged on the PCB. Aspect 5: The shock absorber of aspect 4, wherein the PCB is disposed in a housing of a control device, wherein at least a portion of the housing is constructed of radio frequency transmissive material. Aspect 6: Shock absorber according to aspect 5, wherein the motor is arranged in the housing. Aspect 7: Shock absorber according to aspect 6, further comprising a battery for powering the motor. Aspect 8: The shock absorber according to aspect 7, wherein the control device including the PCB, the motor and the battery is detachably connected to a top of the reservoir. Aspect 9: The shock absorber of any preceding aspect, wherein the flow control element includes a plug movable along a first axis, and wherein the motor is oriented along a second axis orthogonally offset from and offset from the first axis. Aspect 10: A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the flow control element includes a plug, and wherein rotation of an output shaft of the engine causes displacement of the plug. Aspect 11: The shock absorber of aspect 10, wherein the motor is operatively connected to the plug via a worm gear. Aspect 12: Shock absorber according to any one of the preceding aspects, wherein the flow control element is arranged in a body of the reservoir. Aspect 13: The shock absorber of any preceding aspect, further including a spring, wherein the damper body and the spring are configured in a telescopic arrangement, the reservoir being aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from an axis of the spring and the damper body. Aspect 14: Shock absorber for a bicycle, the shock absorber comprising: a damper body defining a first chamber; a reservoir defining a second chamber, a flow path being defined between the first chamber and the second chamber; a flow control element disposed in a body of the reservoir; and a control device for actuating the flow control element based on a wireless command signal to influence fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber. Aspect 15: Shock absorber according to aspect 14, wherein the control device is connected to the reservoir. Aspect 16: Shock absorber according to aspect 14 or 15, wherein the control device includes: a housing; and a wireless transceiver arranged in the housing. Aspect 17: The shock absorber of aspect 16, wherein at least a portion of the housing is constructed of radio frequency transmissive material. Aspect 18: Shock absorber for a bicycle, the shock absorber comprising: a feather; a damper configured in a telescopic arrangement with the spring, the damper comprising a damper body defining a first chamber, a flow path defined between the first chamber and a second chamber, and a flow control element disposed in the flow path; and a motor for operating the flow control element to influence a damping rate of the shock absorber. Aspect 19: The shock absorber of aspect 18, further including a reservoir defining the second chamber, the reservoir being disposed outside the spring and damper. Aspect 20: The shock absorber of aspect 19, further including a controller connected to the reservoir, wherein the motor is disposed in the controller housing. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] US 16 / 140,064

[0017] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] Controllable Cycle Suspension“, filed on September 24, 201

[0017]

Claims

[1] Shock absorber for a bicycle, the shock absorber comprising: a first eyelet configured for attachment to a bicycle frame and a second eyelet configured for attachment to a bicycle frame, the first eyelet and the second eyelet defining a space therebetween; a damper body defining a first chamber; a reservoir defining a second chamber, a flow path being defined between the first chamber and the second chamber; a flow control element disposed in the reservoir in the flow path; a movement device for operating the flow control element to influence a fluid flow between the first chamber and the second chamber; a printed circuit board (PCB) having a circuit to activate the movement device based on a command signal to actuate the flow control element; a wireless transceiver for receiving the command signal, wherein the wireless transceiver is arranged on the PCB and the PCB is arranged in a housing of a control device, wherein at least a portion of the housing is constructed of radio frequency permeable material; and a battery disposed in the space between the first eyelet and the second eyelet, the battery configured to supply power to the electrically powered movement device. [2] Shock absorber according to claim 1, wherein the control device is connected to the reservoir. [3] Shock absorber according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the moving device is arranged in the housing. [4] A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery is removably attached to the housing. [5] A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device including the PCB and the movement device is releasably connected to a top surface of the reservoir. [6] A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery or the housing has a charging port configured to charge the battery. [7] A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery is arranged to extend along one side of the reservoir. [8] A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the battery is detachably attached to a housing at an opening in the housing. [9] Shock absorber according to claim 7, wherein the opening is surrounded by a seal. [10] A shock absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, further including a spring, wherein the damper body and the spring are configured in a telescopic arrangement, the reservoir being aligned along an axis parallel to and offset from an axis of the spring and the damper body. [11] Shock absorber according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow control element is arranged in a body of the reservoir.

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