Bearing system for storing a component in a frame tube of a bicycle frame

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a bearing system for storing electronic components in a frame tube of a bicycle frame, comprising a base body and at least one first support element for storing and / or fastening the base body to an inner surface of the frame tube. The invention further relates to a bicycle frame, comprising a frame tube and a bearing system for storing electronic components in the frame tube, which includes a base body and at least one support element for storing and / or fastening the base body to an inner surface of the frame tube.

[0002] From DE 10 2013 204 557 A1, which discloses all features of the preamble of independent claim 1, a bicycle with an electric motor is known. A battery or accumulator for operating at least the electric motor is housed in a frame tube of a bicycle frame. Document EP3901024, prior art according to Article 54(3) EPC, also discloses a known bearing system for supporting an electronic component.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to create a storage system for bicycle components which can be used flexibly.

[0004] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims.

[0005] A bearing system is proposed for mounting components within a frame tube of a bicycle frame. The bicycle frame is designed for a bicycle, in particular an electrically powered bicycle, a so-called e-bike. The components also include electronic components for the bicycle, such as an energy storage device, for example for an electric motor of the e-bike, and / or a control unit.

[0006] The bearing system comprises a housing body for receiving the component. The housing body can accommodate the component, particularly an electronic component, and preferably at least partially enclose it. The bearing system also includes at least one first support element for mounting the housing body on the inside of the frame tube. Additionally or alternatively, the housing body can also be attached to the inside of the frame tube by means of the at least one first support element.

[0007] According to the invention, the first support element is attached to an outer surface of the housing body. Additionally or alternatively, the first support element can be attached to the outer surface of the housing body. This is advantageous because the first support element allows the housing body to be supported against the inner surface of the frame tube. With the aid of the first support element, the housing body can be mounted at a distance from the frame tube. The component is thus protected, for example, from vibrations. Since the at least one first support element is arranged on the outer surface of the housing body, it is positioned between the inner surface of the frame tube and the housing body. Preferably, the housing body can thus be spaced apart from the inner surface of the frame tube, so that vibrations are not transmitted directly to the housing body.

[0008] According to the invention, the first support element can be detachably attached to the housing body.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, according to the invention, the first support element is detachably attached to the housing body. Depending on the mechanical requirements, a different number of support elements can be arranged on the housing body. This allows for a bearing arrangement in which the acting forces are optimally dissipated.

[0010] It is advantageous if the bearing system has at least one second support element. This differs from the first support element in its dimensions, particularly in terms of shape, size, and / or dimensions. This allows the housing body to be fitted into virtually any frame tube diameter and shape of a bicycle frame. It also compensates for variations in manufacturing tolerances.

[0011] It is also advantageous if the first and / or second support element is axially guided and / or displaceable in a longitudinal direction of the frame tube during the intended use of the bearing system. As a result, the first and / or second support element can be positioned on the housing body so that the housing body is optimally supported. The first and / or second support element can also be axially guided and / or displaceable in an axial direction of the housing body.

[0012] It is advantageous if at least one support element is positively connected, materially connected, and / or force-fit connected to the housing body, or can be connected in this way. The support elements can be arranged variably on the housing body. In particular, the positively connected and / or force-fit connection can be released again to allow the repositioning of at least one support element.

[0013] It is also advantageous if the housing body has at least one first fastening element on its outer surface. At least one support element can be arranged on the housing body at this first fastening element. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one support element can have a second fastening element corresponding to the first fastening element. This allows one or more support elements to be attached to the outer surface of the housing body as needed.

[0014] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the first and / or second fastening element extends parallel to a longitudinal direction of the frame tube during the intended use of the bearing system. The first and / or second fastening element can also extend parallel to the axial direction of the housing body. During intended use, the longitudinal and axial directions are oriented parallel to each other, so that at least one support element can be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the frame tube.

[0015] It is advantageous if the first fastening element extends from a first end face of the housing body and / or the second fastening element extends from a first end face of the support element, in particular to an opposite second end face. The first fastening element and / or the second fastening element can extend to the correspondingly opposite second end face of the housing body and / or the support element.

[0016] It is also extremely advantageous if one of the two fastening elements is designed as a groove and the other as a projection, particularly one that engages positively in the groove. The groove and the projection allow at least one support element to be easily moved.

[0017] It is also advantageous if the groove has at least one opening. The extension can be inserted into and / or removed from the groove through this opening. This allows for quick assembly of at least one support element and / or quick replacement.

[0018] It is also advantageous if the housing body has a receiving cavity for the electronic component, which includes at least one opening in the housing body. The component can be positioned within this receiving cavity, and can be inserted and / or removed through the housing opening. These components can include parts of a controller for the electric motor and / or a control unit for the battery or accumulator. Within the receiving cavity, the components are protected from mechanical forces.

[0019] Advantages arise if the bearing system has a first and / or second end plate that is attached to one of the two end faces of the housing body, particularly in a detachable manner, to close the housing opening. The end plates increase the mechanical stability of the housing body and seal the housing body or the receiving cavity. Furthermore, the components within the receiving cavity of the housing body are better protected from external influences.

[0020] It offers advantages if the groove opening is located on one of the two end faces of the housing body. This allows at least one support element to be inserted into the groove from the corresponding end face. Additionally or alternatively, the groove opening can be closed by one of the two end plates. This prevents the support element from potentially slipping out of the groove. Furthermore, the end plates can serve as a defined end stop.

[0021] Furthermore, according to the invention, the first support element is radially expandable, so that the housing body can be force-fitted to the inside of the frame tube. It is also advantageous if the second support element is radially expandable, so that the housing body can be force-fitted to the inside of the frame tube. This allows for fine adjustments during assembly. In addition, the housing body can thus be fixed relative to the frame tube. As the corresponding support element expands, the housing body expands against the inside of the frame tube. By expanding the corresponding support element, a force-fit connection can be formed between the housing body and the inside of the frame tube.

[0022] It is advantageous if the first and / or second support element has a bore, particularly with at least one longitudinal groove, into which an expansion element, especially a screw, nail, or bolt, can be inserted to spread the support element. Depending on the application, the expansion element can be inserted from either side. The bore can also have an internal thread into which the screw can be screwed as an expansion element. This also secures the expansion element. This allows the support element to be spread quickly and precisely.

[0023] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the housing body has at least one stop element by means of which the housing body can be supported and / or mounted longitudinally along the frame tube during intended use. The stop element can also be adjustable in length, particularly via a threaded rod, so that the housing body can be positioned by means of the stop element when it is in contact with the frame tube. The stop element allows the housing body to be fitted into frame tubes of different lengths.

[0024] It is advantageous if the stop element is located at one of the two ends or at one of the two end faces of the housing body. Alternatively, the stop element can also be located on one of the two end plates. The stop element allows for axial adjustment of the housing body's length. This facilitates easy and precise assembly of the bearing system components. In particular, the stop element enables the housing body to be positioned longitudinally along the frame tube.

[0025] It is also advantageous if at least one stop element is axially adjustable, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the designated frame tube. Additionally or alternatively, at least one stop element can also be adjusted axially along the housing body. By adjusting it longitudinally along the frame tube or axially along the housing body, the housing body itself can be positioned relative to the frame tube. This ensures precise positioning of the housing components even under harsh operating conditions.

[0026] It is advantageous if the housing body has at least one corner in its cross-section. Additionally or alternatively, the first fastening element can be located in the corner. Since the corner is an outermost region of the housing body, positioning the at least one support element at or near the corner is advantageous. There, the support element makes contact with the inside of the frame tube, whereas the areas between the corners can be spaced away from the inside of the frame tube. Furthermore, when force is applied at the corners of the housing body, the force can be distributed evenly over an outer surface of the housing body, thus avoiding areas with high load peaks. Additionally, by arranging the first fastening element in the corner, the at least one support element can also be positioned in the corner.At least one support element is therefore located in the area on the housing body that is furthest out, namely the corner.

[0027] It is advantageous if at least one of the first and / or second support elements is elastically designed. This allows vibrations of the frame tube to be dampened. The vibrations are thus either dampened or not transmitted to the component, thereby reducing the stress on it. For example, at least one of the first and / or second support elements can be made of a plastic and / or rubber material and / or include a damping element, particularly made of rubber.

[0028] Furthermore, a bicycle frame is proposed, comprising at least one frame tube and a bearing system for housing electronic components within the frame tube. The bearing system includes a housing body and at least one support element for supporting and / or attaching the housing body to the inside of the frame tube.

[0029] The storage system is designed according to at least one feature of the preceding and / or following description.

[0030] Advantages arise when at least one support element rests against the inside of the frame tube and is spread radially between the housing body and the frame tube. This allows for a mechanically robust fixation of the housing body within the frame tube. The housing body does not rest directly against the frame tube; it can be spaced from the frame tube, particularly from its inside. By selecting the appropriate support element, for example, its size, shape, and / or diameter, the housing body can be mounted in any frame tube using the bearing system.

[0031] In this design, the housing body can only indirectly rest against or contact the inside of the frame tube via at least one support element. This allows the frame tube to bend and / or twist to a certain extent without the housing body itself bending and / or twisting. This prevents damage to the components. The frame tube can therefore be designed with lower rigidity, which in turn saves weight. A bicycle frame is also proposed, consisting of a frame tube and an electronics unit fixed immovably within the frame tube. The electronics unit could be, for example, a control unit. A bearing unit is also fixed immovably within the frame tube. An energy storage device is positioned between the electronics unit and the bearing unit. The energy storage device is connected to the electronics unit at its first end via a primary interface.The energy storage device is also detachably connected to the storage unit at its other end via a second interface. The energy storage device can, for example, supply energy to the electric motor of an e-bike. Furthermore, the electronic unit can be connected to the energy storage device, allowing it to draw energy from the storage device and / or control the energy storage device or an energy flow. The energy storage device could be, for example, a battery or an accumulator.

[0032] The proposed design is a bicycle frame with a frame tube, an electronics unit fixed immovably in the frame tube, a bearing unit fixed immovably in the frame tube, and an energy storage device arranged between the electronics unit and the bearing unit, which is detachably connected at its first end to the electronics unit via a first interface and at its second end to the bearing unit via a second interface.

[0033] The first and second interfaces are designed such that the energy storage device is mounted in a floating manner. The energy storage device can move relative to the electronics unit and the bearing unit.

[0034] Thus, the first and second interfaces are designed so that the energy storage device is floating and can move relative to the electronics unit and the bearing unit. The energy storage device can therefore move relative to the frame tube if it deforms and / or twists under load. Such loads are thus not, or only minimally, transferred to the energy storage device. Damage to the energy storage device is therefore prevented, and its lifespan is extended.

[0035] The electronic unit comprises an electronic component, for example a control unit for the e-bike, and a bearing system for mounting the electronic component within the frame tube. The bearing system can be designed according to one or more features of the preceding and / or following description.

[0036] It is advantageous if the first and second interfaces are designed such that the energy storage device can rotate around the electronic unit in the area of ​​the first interface. The rotation occurs, in particular, about at least one first axis of rotation running transversely in the longitudinal direction of the frame tube. Additionally or alternatively, the rotation can occur about a second axis of rotation perpendicular to this first axis. The rotational possibilities afforded by the given degrees of freedom enable movement of the energy storage device. This allows forces occurring during intended use to be compensated for. It also facilitates easy removal of the energy storage device.It is advantageous if the first and second interfaces are designed in such a way that the energy storage device can rotate around the electronic unit in the area of ​​the first interface, in particular around at least one first axis of rotation running transversely to the longitudinal direction of the frame tube and / or a second axis of rotation perpendicular to this first axis of rotation.

[0037] It is advantageous if the first interface has a hinge between the energy storage device and the electronic unit. This allows the energy storage device to pivot relative to the electronic unit.

[0038] It is advantageous to have a gap between one end face of the energy storage device and the opposite end face of the electronic unit. This gap is thus arranged longitudinally or axially between the electronic unit and the energy storage device. The gap allows for rotational and / or translational movement of the energy storage device relative to the electronic unit. Additionally or alternatively, the gap can reduce the distance between the electronic unit and the energy storage device without them touching. The gap also simplifies the removal and replacement of the energy storage device. The necessary mobility for use and / or assembly / disassembly is ensured by the gap.

[0039] It is advantageous if the first interface has a spacer element that bridges the gap and / or separates the energy storage device and the electronic unit.

[0040] Advantageously, the first interface has a spacer element that bridges the gap. Additionally or alternatively, the spacer element separates the energy storage device from the electronic unit. This spacer element prevents the energy storage device and the electronic unit from touching, except for the spacer element itself.

[0041] It is therefore advantageous if the first interface has a spacer element that bridges the gap and / or separates the energy storage device and the electronic unit.

[0042] It is advantageous if the first interface has a recess in which a free end of the spacer element is rotatably received, particularly for the formation of the joint.

[0043] It is advantageous if the first interface has a recess. A free end of the spacer element is received in this recess, allowing the joint to be formed. The receiving element is rotatable and / or pivotable, thus providing free degrees of rotation.

[0044] It is advantageous if the free end of the spacer element has a convex first joint surface and the recess has a corresponding concave second joint surface. The free end of the spacer element corresponds to the recess. This ensures not only mobility, particularly rotational mobility, but also secure guidance and the absorption of resulting forces.

[0045] It is advantageous if the spacer element and / or the recess is arranged eccentrically in the transverse direction of the housing and / or in an edge area of ​​the front face.

[0046] Advantageously, the spacer element and / or the recess is arranged eccentrically in the transverse direction of the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the spacer element and / or the recess is located in an edge region of the end face. This arrangement allows for a tilting of the housing bodies that is beneficial for use. This simplifies the removal of the energy storage device from the frame tube.

[0047] It is advantageous if the spacer element or recess is formed on the electronic unit or the energy storage device. The resulting articulated connection allows for relative movement of the housing bodies. This provides a floating mounting for the energy storage device. Removal and installation of the energy storage device are simplified.

[0048] It is advantageous if the first interface on the electronic unit has an electrical first connector and the energy storage device has a second electrical connector corresponding to the first connector.

[0049] Advantageously, the first interface on the electronic unit has an electrical first connector. The first interface on the energy storage device has a second electrical connector that corresponds to the first connector. During normal use, electrical contact is made via the first and second connectors.

[0050] It is advantageous if the first and / or second connector is movably mounted relative to its respective housing, especially via an elastic intermediate element.

[0051] It is advantageous if the first connector is movably mounted relative to its associated housing, particularly via an elastic intermediate element. Additionally or alternatively, the second connector is also movably mounted relative to its associated housing, particularly by means of an elastic intermediate element. This ensures reliable electrical contact even when the respective housings move relative to each other.

[0052] It is advantageous if the elastic intermediate element extends in a ring shape around the connector, is arranged in the radial direction between the radially inner connector and the radially outer housing, and / or indirectly connects the connector to the housing.

[0053] Advantageously, the elastic intermediate element extends in a ring shape around the connector. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic intermediate element is arranged radially between the radially inner connector and the radially outer housing. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic intermediate element indirectly connects the connector to the housing. The connectors are flexibly connected to each other by means of the elastic intermediate element. The connectors can move relative to each other while maintaining an electrical connection. Preferably, both connectors can have said elastic intermediate element.

[0054] It is advantageous if the second interface is designed in such a way that the second end of the energy storage device is held in a neutral position by a spring and / or can move out of the neutral position in the event of a shock in the transverse direction of the frame tube and is then moved back into the neutral position by a spring.

[0055] It is advantageous if the second interface is designed such that the second end of the energy storage device is held in a neutral position by a spring. Additionally or alternatively, the second end of the energy storage device can move out of the neutral position upon impact in a transverse direction of the frame tube and then return to the neutral position by spring action. This spring-loaded mounting protects the energy storage device from impact loads. Furthermore, the second end of the energy storage device is always returned to the neutral position. The neutral position can, for example, be designed such that the energy storage device is arranged coaxially with the frame tube when the second end of the energy storage device is in the neutral position.

[0056] It is advantageous if the second interface has an elastic retaining element by means of which the second end of the energy storage device, especially in the transverse direction of the frame tube, is held in the neutral position by spring action.

[0057] Advantageously, the second interface features an elastic retaining element. This elastic retaining element holds the second end of the energy storage device, particularly in the transverse direction of the frame tube, in a spring-loaded neutral position. The elastic retaining element can be loop-shaped. It ensures precise positioning and a predefined range of motion. The range of motion can be determined by the length of the retaining element.

[0058] It is advantageous if the second interface has an elastic damping element through which the second end of the energy storage device is indirectly connected to the frame tube.

[0059] It is advantageous if the second interface incorporates an elastic damping element. This indirectly connects the second end of the energy storage device to the frame tube, thus enabling relative movement of the energy storage device to the frame tube.

[0060] It is advantageous if the elastic damping element includes a contact surface on which the energy storage device rests loosely in the transverse direction of the frame tube in the area of ​​its second end.

[0061] It is advantageous if the elastic damping element includes a bearing surface. The energy storage device rests loosely on this bearing surface at its second end, in the transverse direction of the frame tube. This arrangement creates a floating mounting for the energy storage device. In the stationary state, the weight of the energy storage device is absorbed, at least partially, by the damping element and the bearing surface. Impact loads are reduced by the damping element.

[0062] It is advantageous if the elastic retaining element presses the energy storage device against the side of the frame tube and / or against the contact surface of the elastic damping element in the area of ​​its second end under spring pressure.

[0063] It is advantageous if the elastic retaining element, acting under spring pressure, presses the energy storage device at its second end in a transverse direction along the frame tube. Additionally or alternatively, the elastic retaining element presses the energy storage device at its second end, acting under spring pressure, in a transverse direction along the frame tube against the contact surface of the elastic damping element. This secures and / or holds the second end of the energy storage device in a neutral position, reliably protecting it against impact loads, regardless of the direction from which the force is applied.

[0064] It is advantageous if the elastic retaining element and the elastic damping element are formed as a single unit. This embodiment ensures that the retaining element and the damping element are correctly aligned with each other. Furthermore, it simplifies assembly.

[0065] It is advantageous if the second interface includes a fastening element, in particular a hook, to which the elastic retaining element, in particular a loop of the retaining element, is loosely attached.

[0066] A key advantage is that the second interface includes a fastening element, specifically a hook. The elastic retaining element, particularly a loop of the retaining element, can be loosely attached to this fastening element. This allows the energy storage device to be mounted easily and quickly and removed effortlessly at any time.

[0067] It is advantageous if the second interface, for the purpose of facilitating assembly and / or limiting movement, includes at least a first and / or second cross stop and a corresponding stop element.

[0068] It is advantageous if the second interface, to facilitate assembly, includes at least a first and / or second cross stop and a corresponding, in particular rectangular, stop element. This arrangement ensures that the components are guided relative to each other during assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the first and / or second cross stop and the corresponding stop element serve to limit movement.

[0069] Advantageously, a clearance is provided between the stop element and the first and / or second cross stop. The cross stop allows for a defined degree of movement between the cross stop and the corresponding stop element. This clearance enables the floating bearing to be achieved.

[0070] It is advantageous if the retaining element, particularly elastic, the damping element, particularly elastic, the fastening element, the at least one transverse stop, and / or the stop element are formed on the energy storage device or on the bearing unit. Depending on the embodiment, the arrangement of the elements on the different bearing units can vary. Depending on the technical implementation, optimal interaction of the elements with each other can be ensured.

[0071] It is advantageous if the bearing unit includes a bearing body fixed in the frame tube, which is connected, in particular loosely and / or positively, to the retaining element and / or the damping element.

[0072] It is advantageous if the bearing unit comprises a bearing body fixed within the frame tube, which is connected, particularly loosely and / or positively, to the elastic retaining element and / or damping element. The elastic retaining element can be hooked into recesses and / or notches. An advantage of this design is the simple and effortless re-detachment of the elastic retaining element to the bearing body. The energy storage device is floatingly mounted at the second end, thus ensuring a degree of movement.

[0073] It is advantageous if the bearing body, fixed within the frame tube, has a threaded rod. This threaded rod also has a thread. Using the threaded rod, the bearing body can be securely wedged against the inside of the frame tube. The threaded rod can be rotated relative to the bearing body, allowing it to be screwed in or out. By unscrewing it, the threaded rod is wedged within the frame tube. This allows for length adjustment of the threaded rod. A locking element surrounds the threaded rod, enabling the bearing unit to be wedged within the frame tube.

[0074] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a thread is cut into the end of the threaded rod facing the locking element. A magnetic locking device can be detachably attached to this second thread, in particular by screwing it on. In normal use, a magnetic locking bolt engages with the magnetic locking device. The magnetic locking bolt is guided by a locking cylinder. The magnetic interaction between the magnetic locking device and the magnetic locking bolt provides haptic feedback as soon as the magnetic locking bolt engages the magnetic locking device. This also ensures that the magnetic locking bolt engages positively with the magnetic locking device.

[0075] It is advantageous to have a locking cylinder on the cover to prevent unauthorized opening. The cover closes an opening through which at least the energy storage device can be inserted into or removed from the frame tube. The locking cylinder can be located at one end of the cover. At the other end of the cover, opposite the first end, a magnet is attached to its underside. A second magnet is mounted on a housing fixed within the frame tube. This magnetic device allows the cover to be releasably secured in a locked position. At least one extension is attached to the other end of the cover. This extension(s) engage with the inside of the frame tube, thus mechanically preventing the cover from being detached.The interaction with the locking cylinder at the first end of the cover ensures that the cover is securely fixed to the opening of the frame tube. The cover completely seals the opening of the frame tube, thus preventing the ingress of dirt particles and / or moisture.

[0076] Furthermore, an electronics unit, storage unit and / or energy storage device for use in a bicycle frame is proposed, wherein the bicycle frame is designed according to at least one feature of the preceding and / or following description.

[0077] Further advantages of the invention are described in the following exemplary embodiments. These show: Figure 1 a perspective view of a section of a bicycle frame with a bearing system, Figure 2 a perspective view of a housing body, Figure 3 a perspective view of a support element, Figure 4a longitudinal and a front view of the support element, Figure 5 a front view of the housing body mounted in a frame tube, Figure 6 a longitudinal view of the housing body mounted in a frame tube, Figure 7 a perspective view of an energy storage device, Figure 8 a perspective view of the frame tube with housing body and energy storage, Figure 9 a perspective view of a storage unit with energy storage and Figure 10 A schematic side view showing an energy storage device mounted in the frame tube.

[0078] Figure 1Figure 1 shows a section or part of a bicycle frame with a frame tube 2. The frame tube 2 shown here is, by way of example, a down tube with a bottom bracket shell 10. Alternatively, the frame tube 2 can also be a seat tube, cross tube, front tube, or a tube for a luggage rack. The frame tube 2 has a hollow space 58 in which a bearing system 4 for mounting an electronic component is arranged. The bearing system 4 comprises a housing 5. The component is, for example, a control unit for an energy storage device 9, also shown in this embodiment. The energy storage device 9 can, for example, supply energy to an electric motor (not shown here) if the bicycle frame is part of an e-bike. According to the present embodiment, the energy storage device 9 is also housed in the frame tube 2 or arranged in the hollow space 58. The component 1 is further arranged in the housing 5.The housing body 5 has a receiving cavity 3. The component, in particular electronic, and / or the housing body 5 and the bearing system 4 form an electronic unit 1.

[0079] The frame tube 2 also has an inner side 59.

[0080] The frame tube 2 also includes a cover 7, by means of which the tube cavity 58 can be closed. The cover 7 can also be closed by means of a locking device 8.

[0081] Furthermore, a longitudinal direction L is shown. The frame tube 2 has the longitudinal direction L or extends in longitudinal direction L, wherein, as shown here, the electronic unit 1 and the energy storage device 9 are arranged one behind the other in longitudinal direction L.

[0082] Features already described in at least one preceding figure are not explained again for the sake of simplicity. Furthermore, features may only be described in at least one of the subsequent figures. For the sake of simplicity, the same reference symbols are used for identical features. Additionally, for the sake of clarity, not all features can be shown in the following figures. However, features shown in one or more of the preceding figures may also be present in one or more of the subsequent figures. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, features may only be shown in one or more of the subsequent figures. Nevertheless, features shown only in one or more of the subsequent figures may also already be present in a preceding figure.

[0083] Figure 2Figure 1 shows the electronics unit 1 with the housing body 5. The bearing system 4 comprises at least one first support element 11, which is attached to an outer surface 13 of the housing body 5. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one first support element 11 can also be attached to the outer surface 13 of the housing body 5. The housing body 5 has an axial direction X, as shown here. When the electronics unit 1 with the housing body 5 is arranged in the frame tube 2, the longitudinal direction L and the axial direction X are parallel to each other.

[0084] According to the present embodiment, several first support elements 11a, 11b are shown here. As shown, the support elements 11a, 11b are preferably arranged in the region of corners 28 of the housing body 5. The housing body 5 has a square cross-section. The corners 28 are therefore the outermost areas, so that support elements 11 can support the housing body 5 in the frame tube 2 there. If several first support elements 11 are arranged on the housing body 5, they can be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X and / or in a circumferential direction. The two first support elements 11a, 11b shown here are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0085] In the present embodiment, the bearing system 4 comprises at least one further support element 12, which differs from the first support element 11, particularly with regard to shape, size, and / or dimensions. Here, too, several second support elements 12a, 12b are arranged on the housing body 5. If several second support elements 12 are arranged on the housing body 5, they can be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X and / or in a circumferential direction. The two second support elements 12a, 12b shown here are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction X.

[0086] Furthermore, a first end plate 16 is attached to a first end face 14 of the housing body 5, which closes a receiving cavity 3 of the housing body 5. The receiving cavity 3 is located inside the housing body 5.

[0087] A second end plate 17 is arranged on a second end face 15 of the housing body 5 opposite the first end face 14, which also closes the receiving cavity 3 of the housing body 5.

[0088] The first end plate 16 also includes a first connector 36 for connecting the electronic unit 1 to the energy storage device 9 or a counterpart. The first connector 36 also has electrical contacts 22.

[0089] Furthermore, the first end plate 16 has a spacer element 21 which can be inserted into a recess 33 of the energy storage device 9. Both are part of a first interface, which is described in more detail in the following figures.

[0090] The at least one first and / or the at least one second support element 11, 12 are further arranged in a groove 18. The groove 18 is here an embodiment of a first fastening means for arranging the at least one support element 11, 12 on the housing body 5. The groove 18 further has, as shown here, two groove openings 19a, 19b through which the first and / or the second support element 11, 12 can be inserted into the groove 18. According to the present embodiment, the two groove openings 19a, 19b are closed by means of the two end plates 16, 17, so that the corresponding support elements 11, 12 can no longer fall out.

[0091] The at least one support element 11, 12 can further be displaced along the groove 18 and preferably connected to the housing body 5 by force-fit, form-fit and / or material-fit. The at least one support element 11, 12 is thus fixed, in a particularly detachable manner.

[0092] The at least one first support element 11a, 11b further comprises a spreading element 20 by means of which the at least one first support element 11a, 11b can be spread open. This allows the at least one first support element 11a, 11b to be spread against the inside 59 of the frame tube 2, so that the electronic unit 1 can be fixed in the frame tube 2.

[0093] According to the present embodiment, the first connector 36 further comprises an elastic intermediate element 55. The elastic intermediate element 55 extends in a ring shape around the first connector 36. The elastic intermediate element 55 is arranged radially between the radially inner first connector 36 and the radially outer housing body 5. It indirectly connects the first connector 36 to the housing body 5. This arrangement of the elastic intermediate element 55 allows the plug connection of a first interface 60 with a second connector 37 to have rotational mobility (see Figure 1). Figures 7 and 8 and 10 ). The rotational mobility extends in particular to a first axis of rotation running transversely in the longitudinal direction L of the frame tube 2 or to a first axis of rotation running transversely in the axial direction X of the housing body 5 and / or to a further axis of rotation perpendicular to this axis of rotation.

[0094] Furthermore, the spacer element 21 has a first joint surface 52 which can form a joint 48 with a second joint surface 53 of a recess 33 on the energy storage device 9. The second joint surface 53 of the recess 33 on the energy storage device 9 is in Figure 7 shown. The first joint surface 52 is furthermore convex according to the present embodiment.

[0095] Figure 3Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the first support element 11 with an expanding element 20 in a support body 23 of the support element 11. In this embodiment, the expanding element 20 is designed as a screw. The slot 26 arranged in the support body 23 allows the support body 23 to expand when the expanding element 20 is inserted or screwed in, thereby increasing the cross-section of the support body 23. This allows the support element 11, or the support body 23, to be expanded against the inner side 59 of the frame tube 2, thus forming a force-fit connection.

[0096] The support element 11 or support body 23 has a projection 24 which can engage, in particular in a form-fitting manner, in the groove 18 provided on the housing body 5. The projection 24 allows the at least one support element 11 to be moved and positioned along the groove 18. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one second support element 12 can also have the projection 24 and / or the slot 26 for spreading. The projection 24 is an embodiment of a second fastening means for attaching the at least one support element 11, 12 to the housing body 5. The first and / or the second fastening means can also be designed as a screw connection, clip connection, and / or snap-in connection to attach the at least one support element 11, 12 to the outer surface 13 of the housing body 5.

[0097] Figure 4shows both a side view and a front view of the support element 11. The side view is shown above and the front view is shown below.

[0098] The side view shows the spreading element 20 with a screw as an exemplary embodiment. The length of the first support element 11, or optionally the second support element 12, can vary, as can the length of the slot 26.

[0099] A bore 25 is provided in the center, from which slots 26 extend to the sides. As shown here, the slot 26 extends over the entire width of the support body 23 (see front view). According to the side view, the slot 26 extends only partially over the length of the support body 23. Consequently, the support body 23 remains a single piece.

[0100] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a front view of the housing body 5, with support elements 11, 12, which bear against the inner side 59 of the frame tube 2. According to the present embodiment, two first support elements 11a, 11b and two second support elements 12a, 12b are arranged on the housing body 5. The two first support elements 11a, 11b each have the two spreading elements 20a, 20b for spreading. This allows the housing body 5 to be spread against the inner side 59 of the frame tube 2 by means of the bearing system 4 or the support elements 11, 12, so that the housing body 5 with the electronic component is fixed in the frame tube 2. As can be seen in the present embodiment, only the support elements 11, 12 are in contact with the frame tube 2. The housing body 5 is spaced apart from the frame tube 2. Bending and / or twisting of the frame tube 2 is therefore not transferred to the housing body 5, so that it is not subjected to any stress.By means of at least one support element 11, 12, such deformations of the frame tube can be dampened, especially if they are elastically designed.

[0101] The invention is not limited to the embodiment shown here. Any combination of support elements 11, 12 with and without a spreading element 20 can be provided.

[0102] By arranging one or more support elements 11, 12 on the housing body 5, the housing body 5 can be optimally fitted into the frame tube 2, which may have different frame tube diameters and shapes. To achieve good bracing of the housing body 5 against the inner side 59 of the frame tube 2, one or more support elements 11, 12 can be arranged on the housing body 5.

[0103] Figure 6Figure 1 shows a side view of the housing body 5 arranged in the frame tube 2. The housing body 5 is shown adjacent to the bottom bracket housing 10 of the frame tube 2, which is designed as a down tube. The bearing system 4 includes a stop element 27 by means of which the housing body 5 can be supported and / or mounted in the longitudinal direction L of the frame tube 2. The stop element 27 can only abut the frame tube 2. A tensile-load-bearing connection between the stop element 27 and the frame tube 2 is not provided in this embodiment. However, a tensile-load-bearing connection between the stop element 27 and the frame tube 2 can be provided in an alternative embodiment. For example, the stop element 27, particularly in the area of ​​the end furthest from the housing body 5, can be glued, screwed, and / or connected to the frame tube 2 by means of a magnetic element.Additionally or alternatively, the housing body 5 can be fixed relative to the frame tube 2 by spreading at least one support element 11, 12.

[0104] The stop element 27 is arranged, as shown here, on the second end plate 17 and preferably extends coaxially from the housing body 5. The length of the stop element 27 can also be variable, so that the position of the housing body 5 relative to the frame tube 2 can be adjusted. The spacer element 21 is also arranged on the side of the housing body 5 opposite the stop element 27.

[0105] Figure 7Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the energy storage device 9. The energy storage device 9 has a second connector 37 at a first end 34, which can be connected to the first connector 36 of the electronic unit 1. Furthermore, the energy storage device 9 has a recess 33 at its first end 34, which can be connected to the spacer element 21 of the electronic unit 11. The energy storage device 9 has a second end 35, which is opposite the first end 34.

[0106] The recess 33 also has the second articulating surface 53, which forms the joint 48 with the first articulating surface 52 (cf. Figure 8 The second articulating surface 53 is concave here. Alternatively, the first articulating surface 52 can be concave and the second articulating surface 53 convex. Both articulating surfaces 52, 53 should correspond to each other so that they form a joint connection.

[0107] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a schematic view of the housing body 5 arranged in the frame tube 2. The housing body 5 forms part of the electronic unit 1. The electronic unit 1, or the first end plate 16, comprises the spacer element 21 and the first connector 36, and the energy storage device 9 comprises, on its first side 34, the recess 33 and the second connector 37. At least the spacer element 21 and the recess 33, into which the spacer element 21 can be inserted, form a first interface 60 between the electronic unit 1 and the energy storage device 9. The first articulating surface 52 of the spacer element 21, which is not designated here, and the second articulating surface 53 of the recess 33, which is also not designated here, together form the joint 48. As a result, the energy storage device 9 and the electronic unit 1 can pivot or rotate relative to each other.

[0108] The energy storage device 9, which has a recess 33 and a second connector 37 at its first end 34, can be electrically connected to the electronic unit 1 by means of the first connector 36. The spacer element 21 rests in the recess 33, thereby creating a distance between the electronic unit 1 and the energy storage device 9.

[0109] Figure 9 Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a storage unit 29 with the energy storage device 9. The energy storage device 9 can be detachably connected to the storage unit 29 via the second interface 61.

[0110] The energy storage device 9 also has an axial direction X. Under normal use, the axial directions X of the housing body 5 and the energy storage device 9 are parallel to each other, so for the sake of simplicity, the axial direction X is used. Furthermore, the axial direction X is parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the frame tube 2.

[0111] The energy storage device 9 has a stop element 38 at one edge. The stop element shown here is located at the second end 35 of the energy storage device 9. The second interface 61 encompasses the stop element 38. The stop element 38 facilitates the insertion or mounting of the energy storage device 9 into the frame tube 2.

[0112] The second interface 61 further comprises, according to the present embodiment, a fastening element 41, which is designed here as a hook. An elastic retaining element 42 of the second interface 61 can be loosely attached to the fastening element 41. The elastic retaining element 42 comprises a loop 43, which, as shown here, can be connected to, and in particular hooked onto, the fastening element 41 designed as a hook. This allows the detachable and elastic or flexible connection between the energy storage device 9 and the bearing unit 29 to be formed, so that the energy storage device 9 is floatingly mounted via the second interface 61. As already described above, the first interface 60 is also flexible, so that the floating mounting is also formed here. Overall, the energy storage device 9 is thus floatingly mounted.

[0113] Furthermore, the second interface 61 includes an elastic damping element 44, via which the second end 35 of the energy storage device 9 is indirectly connected to the frame tube 2. The elastic damping element 44 has a bearing surface 47 on which the energy storage device 9 rests loosely in the transverse direction of the frame tube 2 in the region of its second end 35.

[0114] Furthermore, the bearing unit 29 comprises a bearing body 30, which is fixed to the frame tube 2. For example, the bearing body 30 is screwed, riveted, glued, welded and / or clamped to the frame tube 2.

[0115] The bearing body 30 further comprises a connection arrangement 62 by means of which the elastic damping element 44 and / or the elastic retaining element 42 can be connected to the bearing body 30. For example, the connection arrangement 62 has two notches 63a, 63b spaced apart laterally or transversely to the axial direction X, into which the elastic retaining element 42, in particular the loop 43, can be hooked. The notches 63a, 63b are also recesses.

[0116] Furthermore, the bearing body 30 has a recess 39 into which the stop element 38 shown here can be inserted when the energy storage device 9 is connected to the bearing unit 29 via the second interface 61.

[0117] Furthermore, the second interface 61 includes a first and / or a second transverse stop 64, 65, by means of which the stop element 38 shown here is guided laterally, in particular in a transverse direction Q. The transverse direction Q is oriented perpendicular to the axial direction X.

[0118] The bearing unit 29 further comprises a locking element 46 by means of which the bearing unit 29 can be spread against the inside 59 of the frame tube 2. The locking element 46 is adjustable in length so that, when inserted into the frame tube 2, it can be extended to wedge itself against the frame tube 2.

[0119] The locking element 46 comprises a threaded rod 45, making the locking element 46 adjustable in length. For example, the locking element 46 can be screwed into the bearing body 30 and unscrewed into the bearing body 30 to shorten its length or out of the bearing body 30 to lengthen it.

[0120] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, a locking element 66 is arranged on the locking element 46 in order to lock the cover 7.

[0121] It should be noted that the elements energy storage device 9, elastic damping element 44, support surface 47, and bearing body 30 are shown pulled apart or spaced apart in the axial direction X. When the energy storage device 9 is connected to the bearing unit 29 via the second interface 61, the support surface 47 is located at least partially under the energy storage device 9, particularly in the area of ​​the second end 35. The stop element 38 shown here is located at least partially in the recess 39 and / or adjacent to the at least one transverse stop 64, 65. If the second interface 61 or the bearing body 30 has the two transverse stops 64, 65 shown here, the stop element 38 shown here is located between the two transverse stops 64, 65. The elastic retaining element 42 is also engaged in the two notches 63a, 63b of the connection arrangement 62 shown here.

[0122] Within this specified range of motion, the energy storage device 9 is spring-mounted by means of the elastic retaining element 42. The energy storage device 9 is indirectly connected to the frame tube 2 via the elastic damping element 44. The energy storage device 9 is held in a neutral position by spring action. This ensures that the energy storage device 9 is mounted without vibration. In the event of impacts, the energy storage device 9 is deflected and spring-loaded back into its neutral position.

[0123] Figure 10 Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of the energy storage device 9 mounted in the frame tube 2. The energy storage device 9 is shown in comparison to the Figure 9 For the sake of clarity, the presentation has been simplified.

[0124] The energy storage device 9 is connected to the electronic unit 1 via the first interface 60. An electrical connection is formed between the electronic unit 1 and the energy storage device 9 by means of the two connectors 36, 37. The first interface 60 further comprises the spacer element 21 and the recess 33, wherein the spacer element 21 engages at least partially in the recess 33. One of the two connectors 36, 37 is movably mounted relative to the electronic unit 1 or the energy storage device 9 by means of the elastic intermediate element 55 (not shown). A gap 50 is also arranged between the electronic unit 1 and the energy storage device 9.

[0125] The energy storage device 9 can pivot relative to the electronic unit 1 by means of the first interface 60 shown here and / or the gap 50. The energy storage device 9 can change its orientation and / or its distance relative to the electronic unit 1.

[0126] On the side opposite the first interface 60, or at the second end of the energy storage unit 9, it is connected to the storage unit 29 via the second interface 61.

[0127] The energy storage device 9 rests on the support surface 47 of the elastic damping element 44 at its second end 35. The energy storage device 9 is dampened on the inside 59 of the frame tube 2 by means of the elastic damping element 44.

[0128] Furthermore, the elastic retaining element 42 is connected to or hooked onto a fastening element designed as a hook. This allows the energy storage element 9, as shown in this embodiment, to move towards the cover 7 and / or away from the elastic damping element 44, but is then pulled back into the neutral position shown here by the elastic retaining element 42.

[0129] According to the present embodiment, the energy storage device 9 is arranged at a distance from the inner side 59 of the frame tube 2, so that vibrations are not transmitted. The energy storage device 9 is floatingly mounted by means of the first and second interfaces 60, 61, so that no vibrations and / or bending of the frame tube 2 are transmitted to the energy storage device.

[0130] Furthermore, the locking element 46 is shown, which fixes the bearing unit 29 immovably in the frame tube 2.

[0131] As shown in this embodiment, the locking element 66 is arranged on the locking element 46, by means of which the cover 7 can be closed. According to the present embodiment, a locking mechanism 6 is arranged on the cover 7, which here comprises a locking cylinder 51 and an extension element 54. The locking element 46 has a recess 49, in particular a completely circumferential one, into which the extension element 54 can engage to lock the cover 7. The tube cavity 58 is thus closed.

[0132] The present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown and described. Modifications within the scope of the claims are possible, as is a combination of the features, even if they are shown and described in different embodiments. Reference symbol list

[0133] 1 Electronic unit 2 Frame tube 3 Mounting cavity 4 Bearing system 5 Housing body 6 Locking mechanism 7 Cover 8 Locking device 9 Energy storage 10 Bottom bracket housing 11 First support element 12 Second support element 13 Outer side 14 First end face of housing body 15 Second end face of housing body 16 First end plate 17 Second end plate 18 Groove 19 Groove opening 20 Spreading element 21 Spacer element 22 Electrical contacts 23 Support body 24 Extension 25 Bore 26 Slot 27 Stop element 28 Corner 29 Bearing unit 30 Bearing body 33 Recess 34 First end of energy storage 35 Second end of energy storage 36 First connector 37 Second connector 38 Stop element 39 Recess 41 Fastening element 42 Elastic retaining element 43 Loop 44 Elastic damping element 45 Threaded rod 46 Locking element 47 Support surface 48 Joint 49 Recess 50 Gap 51 Locking cylinder 52 First joint surface 53 Second joint surface 54 Extension element 55 Elastic intermediate element 58 Tube cavity 59 Inside 60 FirstInterface 61, second interface 62, connection arrangement 63, notch 64, first cross stop 65, second cross stop 66, locking element L longitudinal direction X axial direction Q transverse direction

Claims

1. Bearing system (4) for bearing an electronic component in a frame tube (2) of a bicycle frame having a housing body (5) for receiving the component and at least one first support element (11) for bearing and / or fastening the housing body (5) on an inner side of the frame tube (2), characterized in that the first support element (11) is releasably fastened and / or can be releasably fastened on an outer side (13) of the housing body (5) and the first support element (11) can be expanded radially, with the result that the housing body (5) can be spread in a force-fitting manner with the inner side (59) of the frame tube (2).

2. Bearing system according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bearing system (4) has at least one second support element (12) which differs from the first support element (11), in particular with respect to shape, size and / or dimensions.

3. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or the second support element (11, 12) is / are axially guided and / or displaceable in a longitudinal direction of the frame tube (2) during intended use of the bearing system (4).

4. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one support element (11, 12) is connected and / or can be connected to the housing body (5) in a form-fitting manner, in an integrally bonded manner and / or in a force-fitting manner.

5. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing body (5) has at least one first fastening means (18, 24) on its outer side (13) and / or the at least one support element (11, 12) has a second fastening means (18, 24) which corresponds to the first fastening means (18, 24).

6. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or second fastening means (18, 24) extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the frame tube (2) during intended use of the bearing system (4), and / or the first fastening means (18, 24) extends from a first end side of the housing body (14) and / or the second fastening means (18, 24) extends from a first end side of the support element, in particular as far as an opposite second end side.

7. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the two fastening means (18, 24) is configured as a groove (18) and the other fastening means (18, 24) is configured as an extension (24) which engages in the groove (18), in particular in a form-fitting manner, wherein the groove (18) preferably has at least one groove opening (19) via which the extension (24) can be introduced into the groove (18) and / or can be guided out of the latter.

8. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing body (5) has a receiving cavity (3) for the electronic component, which receiving cavity comprises at least one housing opening for introducing the component, and wherein the bearing system (4) preferably has a first and / or second end plate (16, 17) which is fastened, in particular releasably, to one of the two end sides (14, 15) of the housing body (5) in order to close the housing opening.

9. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the groove opening (19) is arranged on one of the two end sides (14, 15) of the housing body (5) and / or is closed by one of the two end plates (16, 17).

10. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second support element (12) can be expanded radially, with the result that the housing body (5) can be spread in a force-fitting manner with the inner side (59) of the frame tube (2).

11. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and / or second support element (11, 12) has a bore (25), in particular with at least one longitudinal groove, into which a spreading element (20), in particular a screw, can be introduced in order to spread the support element (11, 12).

12. Bearing system according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing body (5) has at least one stop element (27) by means of which the housing body (5) can be supported and / or mounted in the longitudinal direction (L) of the frame tube (2) during intended use, wherein the stop element (27) is preferably arranged in the region of one of the two end sides (14, 15) of the housing body (5), in particular on one of the end plates (16, 17), and / or the at least one stop element (27) is preferably adjustable axially, in particular in the longitudinal direction (L) of the frame tube (2) provided for this purpose.

13. Bicycle frame, having a frame tube (2) and a bearing system (4) for bearing electronic components in the frame tube (2), which has a housing body (5) and at least one support element (11, 12) for bearing and / or fastening the housing body (5) on an inner side of the frame tube (2), characterized in that the bearing system (4) is configured according to one or more of the preceding claims.

14. Bicycle frame according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the support element (11, 12) rests on an inner side (59) of the frame tube (2) and is spread in the radial direction of the frame tube (2) between the housing body (5) and the frame tube (2).