Steerable driving assistance system of a bicycle and / or LEV, and a bicycle and / or LEV with such a steerable driving assistance system

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a bicycle and / or LEV (Light Electric Vehicle) with a steerable driving assistance system.

[0002] Although the present invention is applicable to all bicycles and LEVs, it will be explained in more detail below using a bicycle as an example for the sake of simplicity.

[0003] From the prior art, a light unit is known as a driving assistance system, which can be attached in particular to the handlebars or in the area of ​​the front mudguard on the suspension fork of a bicycle in such a way that it is steered when the handlebars are steered.

[0004] It is also known that in LEVs the lighting units can be coupled to the battery drive unit and powered by it.

[0005] However, these approaches have been found to be disadvantageous in that the known light units can become defective in the event of a fall or other type of force, are directly exposed to external weather conditions and are usually not adequately protected against theft.

[0006] Another prior art bicycle with a riding assistance system is disclosed in document GB2492742A, which shows the features of the preamble of claim 1.

[0007] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of designing an improved steerable driving assistance system. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a steerable driving assistance system for a bicycle and / or LEV having the features of claim 1.

[0008] Accordingly, a steerable ride assistance system for a bicycle and / or LEV is provided, comprising a fastening device having a fastening section for fastening the ride assistance system to a fork shaft of the bicycle and / or LEV that can be inserted into a head tube; and a functional unit that is connected to the fastening device in such a way and has such geometric dimensions that when the ride assistance system is fastened to the fork shaft of the bicycle and / or LEV that is inserted into a head tube by means of the fastening device, a steered rotational movement of the functional unit within the head tube of the bicycle and / or LEV is ensured without hindrance.

[0009] According to the invention, a bicycle and / or LEV is provided which has such a steerable driving assistance system.

[0010] The idea underlying the present invention is to mount the functional unit, which is designed as a lighting unit, for example, via a fastening device on a fork shaft of the bicycle and / or LEV in such a way that the driving assistance system, with a corresponding geometric design of the same, is completely inserted in the head tube during operation of the bicycle and / or LEV, and can carry out this steering movement inside the head tube without hindrance when the handlebars are operated.

[0011] This advantageously provides a steerable riding assistance system that is securely mounted within the head tube and thus protected against theft and weather influences. Furthermore, the riding assistance system is also better protected against damage from external forces because it is concealed inside the head tube. Furthermore, the present invention ensures an improved overall aesthetic appearance of the bicycle and / or LEV, as functional units attached to the fork or handlebar that detract from the overall visual appearance are avoided. Consequently, an integration of the riding assistance system that is completely invisible from the outside and protected from weather influences is advantageously created, which ensures an excellent aesthetic appearance of the bicycle and / or LEV.Furthermore, the integration of an internal cable routing for an electrical connection of the functional unit with an associated battery is advantageously enabled.

[0012] According to a preferred development, the fastening section of the fastening device is designed as a ring clamping section that can be clamped by means of a frictional connection, preferably a screw connection, preferably for frictional clamping on a cylindrical section of the fork shaft, wherein the tightening torque of this connection is preferably in a range of 1 to 5 Nm, preferably in a range of 2 to 4 Nm, and more preferably approximately 3 Nm. Another configuration, for example an interference fit (fork cone principle), is also conceivable. In this case, the torque-controlled clamping force is replaced by the choice of fit. This ensures that the functional unit is attached to the fork shaft in a simple and cost-effective manner.

[0013] According to a further preferred development, the ring clamping section is attached to the fork stem for suitable energy dissipation in the event of a rotational force being applied by means of a predetermined tightening torque of the screw connection with a predetermined frictional force. Preferably, with such a frictional connection, a maximum transmittable torque or breakaway torque is provided in a range of preferably 4 to 90 Nm, preferably in a range of 10 to 70 Nm, and more preferably in a range of 15 to 50 Nm. This advantageously prevents damage to components of the system according to the invention in the event of a greater force being applied.

[0014] According to a further preferred development, the fastening device has a fastening projection which extends from a radial edge region approximately in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the fastening device, to which the functional unit is attached or integrally formed, for example by means of a screw connection, click connection, clamp connection, magnetic connection, or the like. As a result, the functional unit can be firmly mounted to the fork shaft via the fastening device and the fastening projection at an optimized position within the head tube, thus ensuring, on the one hand, the smooth functioning of the functional unit and, on the other hand, ensuring unobstructed rotation of the functional unit within the head tube at all times.

[0015] According to a further preferred development, the fastening projection has a web section extending in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis, which is preferably arranged between the fastening section of the fastening device and the functional unit. Due to the web section, the functional unit can advantageously be spaced apart from the fastening device in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal axis in such a way that optimized positioning is ensured, taking the installation space constraints into account.

[0016] According to a further preferred embodiment, the web section has two legs extending approximately parallel to one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis and spaced apart by a gap, with the functional unit being attached to at least one of the legs. This allows the fastening device to be firmly clamped to the fork stem by means of the gap with an associated screw connection or the like, without the resulting change in the width of the gap hindering the attachment of the functional unit to the web section, for example, due to undesirable material stresses.

[0017] According to a further preferred development, the web section has a stop device for limiting the steering angle of the bicycle and / or LEV, wherein the side wall sections of the respective legs facing laterally from the web section preferably form stop sections of the stop device. As a result, the legs of the web section have a dual function, since, on the one hand, the functional unit is attached to at least one of the legs, and the legs also form the stop sections when using a system for limiting the steering angle.

[0018] According to a further preferred development, frame-side counter-stop elements are provided on the head tube of the bicycle and / or LEV as the counter-stop device assigned to the stop device for limiting the steering angle. These counter-stop elements are formed, for example, in one piece with the head tube of the bicycle and / or LEV or are provided as counter-stop elements fastened by means of a screw connection in the head tube of the bicycle and / or LEV, which counter-stop elements are height-adjustable, for example, via elongated holes provided in the head tube. The system thus advantageously provides an integrated steering angle limitation, whereby components of the system according to the invention can advantageously be used. This represents a cost-effective steering angle limitation with minimal assembly effort.

[0019] According to the invention, the functional unit is designed as a headlight system, radar system, camera system, laser system, ultrasound system, lidar system or the like, or as a combination of the aforementioned, and / or has a cover designed as a functional component, for example to protect the functional unit from the effects of the weather, to protect the functional unit from theft or damage, as a lens system for focusing and / or reducing the light cone, as a reflector unit, as a tinting means for darkening certain light exit areas, or the like. This advantageously creates a type of modular principle, so that the functional unit can incorporate one or more of the aforementioned systems as required. Depending on the desired system, the front region of the head tube can be adapted accordingly so that the desired functional unit can perform its function without restriction.

[0020] According to a further preferred development, the functional unit is geometrically adapted to the contour of the associated section of the fork tube and / or the inner curvature of the head tube in such a way that an approximately flush fit with the associated section of the fork tube and / or a collision-free rotational movement is ensured. This advantageously optimizes the available installation space and ensures that, during a steering movement of the fork tube, the functional unit operates without colliding with the inner surfaces of the head tube.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment of the claimed bicycle and / or LEV, the head tube has a cutout opening in the front area, the geometric dimensions, circumferential extent, and / or transparency of which are adapted to the mode of operation of the functional unit. Thus, the geometry and transparency can be advantageously adapted to the respective functional units used, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing overall impression due to the form integrity.

[0022] According to a further preferred embodiment, the cutout opening is provided as an inspection opening for the assembly, replacement, and / or adjustment of the functional unit and / or the fastening device. The inspection opening allows external access to the fastening device and the functional unit without having to remove the system from the head tube. This advantageously allows the functional units to be replaced, exchanged, or realigned as needed in a simple and cost-effective manner, with minimal effort and thus a cost-effective solution.

[0023] According to a further preferred embodiment, the cutout opening can be closed by means of a preferably transparent cover, which can be attached to the cutout opening, preferably flush, using a clip connection, clamp connection, screw connection, magnetic connection, or the like. Furthermore, depending on its design, the cover also provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0024] According to a further preferred embodiment, the transparent cover is designed as a functional component, for example, to prevent weather influences, to protect the functional unit from theft or damage, as a lens system for focusing and / or reducing the light cone, as a reflector unit, to darken certain light exit areas, or the like. Thus, the cover advantageously provides protection against external weather influences or water ingress and can also advantageously provide theft protection and perform other advantageous functions.

[0025] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawing. In the drawings: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a fastening device according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a functional unit according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 3 is a plan view of the functional unit from Fig. 2 ; Fig. 4 a side view of the functional unit from the Figures 2 and 3 , which is attached to the fastening device Fig. 1 is attached; Fig. 5 is a side view of a driving assistance system mounted on a fork shaft according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 6 is a side view of a fastening device according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a front view of the fastening device from Figure 6according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a fastening device according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 9 is a first sectional view of a head tube with a counter-stop device according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 10 is a second sectional view of the head tube with the counter-stop device according to the first preferred embodiment of the present invention Figure 9; Fig. 11 shows a fastening device according to the second embodiment with an associated counter-stop device according to a further embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 12 shows a perspective view of a driving assistance system with an associated counter-stop device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which is mounted on a fork shaft; Fig. 13 shows a plan view of the driving assistance system attached to a fork shaft from Fig. 12 ; Fig. 14 is a front view of a driving assistance system integrated into a head tube according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the head tube from Figure 14 with a closure cover associated with the cutout opening according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] The accompanying figures are intended to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the aforementioned advantages will become apparent upon reference to the figures of the drawings. The elements of the figures are not necessarily shown to scale relative to one another.

[0027] In the figures of the drawing, identical, functionally identical and effective elements, features and components are provided with the same reference symbols, unless otherwise stated.

[0028] The Figures 1 to 5 illustrate a steerable driving assistance system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The steerable driving assistance system 1 consists of a fastening device 10, which in Fig. 1is illustrated in perspective. The fastening device 10 according to the first preferred embodiment has a fastening section 11, which is preferably designed as an annular clamping cone or annular clamping section. The annular clamping section 11 preferably has a gap 12 and a screw connection 13, such that the inner diameter of the annular clamping section 11 can be varied by means of the screw connection 13. Fig. 1 A screw hole associated with the screw connection is shown. This results in the attachment of the fastening device 10 to a preferably cylindrical section of the associated fork shaft 2 of a bicycle or LEV, as shown in Fig. 5As can be seen, a frictional clamping connection with a predetermined frictional force is ensured. For example, the tightening torque of this connection is in a range of 1 to 5 Nm, preferably in a range of 2 to 4 Nm, and more preferably 3 Nm. The values ​​and value ranges given are to be understood as approximate information only. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that other tightening torques are also possible depending on the application.

[0029] Another configuration, such as an interference fit (fork cone principle), is also conceivable. In this case, the torque-controlled clamping force is replaced by the appropriate fit.

[0030] According to the first preferred embodiment, the fastening device 10 has a fastening projection 15, which preferably extends approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis L of the fastening device 10. According to the present embodiment, the fastening projection 15 consists of two legs 16a, 16b running parallel to one another, which are spaced apart from one another by the central gap 12 in order to ensure the desired clamping force for the screw connection 13 described above. Furthermore, one of the two legs 16a is preferably extended relative to the second leg 16b in the direction of the longitudinal axis L and is bent at the distal end by approximately 90 degrees in the direction of the second leg 16b such that its end section is arranged approximately below the second leg 16b and spaced apart from it.

[0031] As particularly in the Figures 1 and 4As can be seen, the distal end region of the first leg 16a serves to attach the associated functional unit 20. In this case, a screw connection 18, 21 (reference number 18 is assigned to the screw hole and reference number 21 to the associated screw), a click connection, a clamp connection, a magnetic connection or the like can be provided for attaching the functional unit 20. Furthermore, it is also possible for the functional unit 20 to be formed integrally with the fastening projection 15. The functional unit 20 is thus connected, for example, via a force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection to the fastening projection 15 of the fastening device 10 or is designed as an integral component in a one-piece design and rotates together with the fork shaft 2 of the bicycle or LEV.

[0032] The web section of the fastening device 10 comprising the two legs 16a, 16b is thus preferably provided between the fastening section 11 and the functional unit 20.

[0033] In the Figures 2 and 3 A functional unit 20 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in a perspective view and a top view. According to this preferred embodiment, the functional unit 20 has at least one front light system, which, for example, comprises an LED or the like as the illuminant.

[0034] Furthermore, the functional unit 20 comprises, in addition to or alternatively to the aforementioned front lighting system, further driving assistance modules, such as, in particular, a radar system, a camera system, a laser system, an ultrasound system, a lidar sensor system, or other smart technology systems. The front lighting system serves to illuminate a predetermined area in the direction of travel in front of the bicycle or LEV within a limited angular range, whereas, for example, a radar system measures speed and distance to other road users, a laser and lidar sensor system, in combination with certain braking systems, detects obstacles and prevents collisions, and a camera and infrared camera system, in particular, monitors traffic and the roadway.It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that the above-mentioned systems can be combined with one another as desired, so that the functional unit 20 can be designed accordingly or even expanded with desired systems using a modular principle. All systems have the goal of improving or recording the user's driving situation and, if necessary, outputting certain recorded data or situations to the user via an output unit - this can be done via Bluetooth or another wireless technology, for example, to a display or an alternative HMI - and / or automatically initiating corresponding driving maneuvers. The individual systems of the functional unit 20, such as the above-mentioned LED of the lighting system, are provided inside the functional unit 20 and are preferably covered by a translucent cover 23.The aperture 23 can be designed as a functional component, for example, as a lens system for focusing and / or reducing the light cone, as a reflector unit, as a tinting device for darkening certain light exit areas, or the like. For example, a visor or shield for directing the light cone can also be provided above the aperture 23.

[0035] The functional unit 20 has, according to a preferred embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2 As shown, a screw 21 is associated with the screw hole 18, which can be inserted into the screw hole 18 and tightened such that the functional unit 20 is fastened to the fastening projection 15 of the fastening device 10 with a predetermined tightening torque. For this purpose, the functional unit 20 has a fastening portion 22, preferably complementary to the distal end portion of the fastening projection 15, for stable attachment.

[0036] As particularly in Fig. 3 As can be seen in the plan view, the functional unit 20 preferably has a contour in the rear area adapted to the outer curvature of the fork shaft 2 such that a concavely curved contact area is provided on the rear side. This preferably results in a flush contact of the functional unit 20 with the associated section of the fork shaft 2, as shown in Fig. 5as can be seen, so that this creates the largest possible installation space for the functional unit 20 and ensures the largest possible vertical adjustment range of the functional unit 20 on the fork shaft 2 inside a head tube 4. Blocking of the steering by a tilted functional unit 20 in the head tube 4 is, as already explained above, preferably ensured by a flush contact via, for example, a chamfer between the functional unit 20 and the associated section of the fork shaft 2 and, if applicable, by existing steering stops or counter-stop elements. The rotational movement of the functional unit 20 is implemented proportionally to the angle of rotation of the handlebar due to the flow of force between the fastening device 10, to which the functional unit 20 is attached, and the fork shaft 2.

[0037] The geometric dimensions of the functional unit 20 are preferably designed such that, in addition to the aforementioned flush contact with the fork shaft 2, rotation within an associated head tube 4 is ensured without collision with sections of the head tube 4 or other components. For this purpose, the functional unit 20 can further comprise a convexly curved front section 25, which is adapted to the inner radius of the head tube 4 in such a way that a predetermined spacing from the inner wall of the head tube 4 is advantageously ensured in every rotational state.

[0038] In the Figures 6 and 7A fastening device 10' according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in a side view and a front view. Since this embodiment is preferably designed substantially analogously to the first embodiment described above with regard to the fastening section 11, reference is made to the above explanations in this regard.

[0039] In the present case, however, with such a frictionally engaged connection of the fastening device 10', a maximum transmittable torque or a breakaway torque in a range of preferably 4 to 90 Nm, preferably in a range of 10 to 70 Nm, and more preferably in a range of 15 to 50 Nm can be provided. The values ​​and value ranges provided are to be understood as approximate information only, since the maximum transmittable torque depends on several factors, such as the coefficient of friction of the respective friction pairing used. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that other tightening torques or breakaway torques are also possible depending on the application.

[0040] In contrast to the first embodiment, the fastening device 10' according to the second embodiment has a fastening projection 15' extended in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, which in turn comprises a first longer leg 17a and a second shorter leg 17b spaced therefrom across the gap 12, each having side wall sections 19a and 19b facing the outside. Attachment of the functional unit 20 to the fastening projection 15' takes place in a manner analogous to the attachment according to the first embodiment described above.

[0041] Due to the increased longitudinal extent, the side wall sections 19a and 19b of the two legs 17a and 17b now form suitable stop sections of a stop device, which are used in a system for limiting the steering angle. Limiting the steering angle can be useful to prevent the steering from locking due to the functional unit 20. The function of the stop sections 19a and 19b when using a system for limiting the steering angle is explained in more detail below.

[0042] Fig. 8 illustrates a fastening device 10" according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention. In contrast to the fastening device 10" described above with reference to Figures 6 and 7 The fastening device 10" according to the present embodiment has the configuration of the fastening device 10' explained Fig. 8a one-piece fastening projection 15", in which the two side wall sections 19a and 19b facing the outside represent the stop sections for an associated system for limiting the steering angle. A functional unit 20 is mounted in the distal end region of the one-piece fastening projection 15" and is also fastened by means of a screw connection including the screw hole 18.

[0043] In contrast to the previous embodiments, in the present case the screw connection 13 of the fastening section 11 and the gap 12 can be arranged offset in the circumferential direction relative to the fastening projection 15" in order to achieve the clamping effect of the fastening section 11. As a result, despite the one-piece design of the fastening projection 15", a firm clamping effect is achieved by means of the gap 12 now located outside the fastening projection 15", without affecting the fastening of the functional unit 20 to the fastening device 10". An advantage of this embodiment, in addition to a more stable one-piece fastening projection 15", is that due to the circumferentially offset position of the screw connection 13, easier access to the screw connection 13 is possible when providing a cutout opening 6 arranged in the front area of ​​the head tube 4, as in Figure 14 is shown.

[0044] The fastening device 10, 10' or 10" can, for example, be made of a fiber composite material (preferably carbon fiber reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, aramid fiber reinforced plastic), a metallic material (preferably an aluminum alloy), a thermoplastic (preferably PP, PE, PA66, ABS), an elastomer (preferably natural / synthetic rubber), or the like. Various components of the fastening device 10, 10' or 10" can also each be made of one of the predicted materials. Particularly shock-absorbing materials can also advantageously be used to achieve a desired energy dissipation in the event of certain force impacts.

[0045] As counter-stop elements corresponding to the above-mentioned stop sections 19a, 19b for an associated system for limiting the steering angle, separately designed elements can be provided, for example, as shown for example in the Figures 9 and 10 illustrated in respective sectional views of a head tube 4. In Figure 9Of the two counter-stop elements 30a, 30b, only the counter-stop element 30b on one side of the cutout opening 6 is illustrated, which according to the illustrated embodiment is designed as an approximately triangular counter-stop element 30b. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that a further counter-stop element 30a with a similar fastening is provided in a mirror-symmetrical manner on the opposite side. The two counter-stop elements 30a, 30b can either be formed in one piece with a corresponding frame section or as an integral component of the head tube 4, for example in the form of a rail or the like, or as shown in the Figures 9 and 10 is illustrated by way of example, be firmly attached by means of a screw connection inside the head tube 4, wherein Figure 10only the screw connection 32b is shown. Counter-stop elements provided on the frame side as integral steering angles can, for example, also be provided as pins or webs inside the head tube 4 at a fixed, predetermined position.

[0046] In this case, it can also be advantageously provided that the screw connection 32b is vertically adjustable in height by means of a vertically provided elongated hole 33b in the head tube 4, which also applies analogously to the opposite second counter-stop element 30a. Consequently, the counter-stop elements 30a, 30b can be suitably adjusted to a corresponding height positioning of the stop sections 19a, 19b of the legs 17a, 17b of the fastening device 10'.

[0047] Fig. 11illustrates in perspective a further advantageous embodiment of the counter-stop elements 30a and 30b, wherein in this case the two counter-stop elements 30a, 30b are connected to each other by means of a common connecting web 31. This allows, in the event that the connecting web 31 is not firmly connected to the frame, the two counter-stop elements 30a, 30b to be advantageously precisely adjusted to the same height. Fig. 11 Furthermore, only the screw hole 34b associated with the screw connection 32b is visible, whereby this is provided analogously for the opposite counter-stop element 30a.

[0048] The two counter-stop elements 30a, 30b have counter-stop sections 35a, 35b assigned to the stop sections 19a, 19b of the fastening device 10', of which Figure 11only one counter-stop section 35b is visible and which are preferably designed in their geometric dimensions such that, during a rotational movement of the handlebar, a limitation of the steering angle of the bicycle and / or LEV is achieved by the respective stop sections 19a, 19b of the fastening projection 15' coming into contact with the respectively associated counter-stop sections 35a, 35b of the counter-stop elements 30a, 30b.

[0049] This mode of action is explained below using the Figures 12 and 13 explained in more detail, whereby Fig. 12 a perspective view of an installed driving support system 1 from the front in a sectional view and Fig. 13 illustrate a top view of the driving assistance system 1 inserted into a head tube 4.

[0050] In the Figures 12 and 13In each case, a maximum steering movement of the handlebar 5 to the left side, viewed in the direction of travel, is shown, so that the limitation of the steering angle due to the contact of the stop portion 19b of the fastening projection 15' of the fastening device 10' with the associated counter-stop element 30b is illustrated. The fastening device 10' is clamped onto the fork stem 2 of the bicycle and / or LEV with its approximately annular clamping portion or fastening portion 11, wherein the inner diameter of the annular fastening portion 11 can be varied by means of the gap 12 and the associated screw connection 13, thereby ensuring a firm attachment of the fastening device 10' to the associated portion of the fork stem 2 by means of a frictional clamping connection with a predetermined frictional force. In this regard, reference is made to the explanations already given above.

[0051] In case of maximum steering angle, as in the Figures 12 and 13 As illustrated by way of example for a left-hand steering angle, at a predetermined steering angle on the left side, the stop section 19b of the fastening projection 15' comes into contact with the correspondingly associated counter-stop element 30b. The same applies, of course, for a predetermined steering angle to the right. Thus, a bilaterally predetermined and thus limited steering angle can be ensured by a suitable interplay of the designs and positioning of the respective stop sections 19a, 19b and counter-stop sections 35a, 35b of the counter-stop elements 30a, 30b.

[0052] It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that the co-steerable driving assistance system 1 described here can also be combined, alternatively or additionally, with independent, different systems for limiting the steering angle. A fastening device 10 according to the first embodiment can advantageously be selected here. In the second and third preferred embodiments, however, the system for limiting the steering angle is at least partially implemented in the design of the fastening device 10' or 10", so that advantageously only the respective counter-stop elements need to be provided on the frame side.

[0053] The individual components of the steerable driving assistance system 1 described above are preferably each dimensioned such that a sufficiently large free space is provided inside the steering tube 4 to accommodate any cables or the like, so that no cable damage can occur during rotational movements of the steering wheel due to an installation space that is too narrow.

[0054] The Figures 14 and 15 each illustrate a head tube 4 with a recorded driving assistance system 1 according to one of the embodiments of the present invention, wherein the head tube 4 has a cutout opening 6 in the front area. As in the Figures 14 and 15As can be seen, according to the present exemplary embodiment, the cutout opening 6 is, for example, approximately visor-shaped, i.e. its shape is based on the visor of a motorcycle helmet. The cutout opening 6 preferably has such geometric dimensions that its circumferential width and its vertical height are adapted to the mode of operation of the functional unit 20 and / or the desired steering angle. If, for example, the functional unit 20 represents a lighting system, the cutout 6 is advantageously selected such that the light emitted by the lighting system forms the desired illumination area in front of the bicycle for every possible steering angle. The size of the cutout opening 6 therefore depends on the light cone and the rotation angle of the lighting system when the lighting system is used.The same applies if the functional unit 20 has additional systems or, alternatively, completely different systems.

[0055] The cutout opening 6 advantageously also serves as an inspection opening for assembly, replacement, and / or adjustment of the functional unit 20 and / or the fastening device 10, 10' or 10", since a user can easily access the components to be modified or replaced via the access through the cutout opening 6. Due to the cutout opening 6, for example, if the fastening device 10, 10' on the fork shaft 2 is twisted, for example as a result of a strong impact of the handlebar, the driving assistance system 1 can be easily realigned via the cutout opening 6.

[0056] As in Fig. 15As can be seen, a cover 7 is also provided, which can preferably close the cutout opening 6 flush. The cover 7 can be attached to the cutout opening 6, for example, by means of a clip connection, a clamp connection, a screw connection, a magnetic connection, or the like. According to the present exemplary embodiment, the cover 7 has a preferably circumferential cover frame 8, which surrounds the transparent section 9 provided in the central region. This ensures, on the one hand, a stable design of the cover 7 and, on the other hand, a suitable exit option for the rays emitted by the functional unit 20.The cover 7, through its transparent area, allows, for example, the light cone to pass through when a lighting system is used as the functional unit 20. It also protects the driving assistance system 1 from weather influences such as water and / or dirt. It can also make it more difficult or even completely prevent destruction or theft of the driving assistance system 1 in the event of an acceptance check. Consequently, the cover 7 can be designed as a functional component, for example, to protect the functional unit 20 from weather influences, to protect the functional unit 20 from theft or damage as already mentioned above, as a lens system for focusing and / or reducing the light cone, as a reflector unit, as a tinting agent for darkening certain light exit areas, or the like.

[0057] Thus, the steerable driving assistance system 1 according to the invention ensures that when the driving assistance system 1 is attached to the fork shaft 2 of the bicycle and / or LEV inserted in a head tube 4 by means of the fastening device 10, 10' or 10", a steered rotational movement of the functional unit 20 within the head tube 4 takes place without obstruction. Furthermore, the steerable driving assistance system 1 already has corresponding stop sections 19a, 19b, which can be used in an associated system for limiting the steering angle.

[0058] Although the present invention has been described using preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto, but can be modified in many ways as long as it falls within the scope of the following claims.

[0059] Furthermore, it is advantageous to completely integrate the cable routing in the head tube 4 or in the stem of the bicycle and / or LEV in such a way that, for example, the light cone of the lighting system of the functional unit 20 is not interrupted or disturbed by cables running outside the handlebar or head tube area. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0060] 1Steerable driving assistance system 2Fork tube 4Head tube 5Handlebar 6Cutout opening 7Cover 8Cover frame 9Transparent section 10, 10', 10"Fastening device 11Fastening section 12Gap 13Screw connection 15, 15', 15"Fastening projection 16a, 16bLeg 17a, 17bLeg 18Screw hole 19a, 19bStop sections 20Functional unit 21Screw 22Fastening section 23Cover 24Concave contact section 25Convex section 30a, 30bCounter stop elements 31Connecting web 32bScrew connection 33bElongated hole 34bScrew hole 35a, 35bCounter stop sections Longitudinal axis

Claims

1. Bicycle and / or LEV, having a head tube (4), a fork steerer tube (2) that can be inserted into the head tube (4), and a steerable ride assist system (1), wherein the ride assist system (1) comprises: a fastening device (10; 10'), which comprises a fastening section (11) for fastening the ride assist system (1) to the fork steerer tube (2) of the bicycle and / or LEV; and a functional unit (20), which is connected to the fastening device (10; 10 ', 10") and comprises such a geometric dimension that, when the ride assist system (1) is fastened to the fork steerer tube (2), which is inserted into the head tube (4), of the bicycle and / or LEV, by means of the fastening device (10; 10', 10") a steered rotational movement of the functional unit (20) within the head tube (4) of the bicycle and / or LEV is ensured without hindrance, characterised in that the functional unit (20) is designed as a front light system, radar system, camera system, laser system, ultrasound system and / or lidar system.

2. Bicycle and / or LEV, according to claim 1, characterised in that the fastening section (11) of the fastening device (10; 10', 10") is designed as an annular clamping section which can be clamped by means of a frictional connection, preferably a screw connection (13), preferably for a frictional clamping to a cylindrical section of the fork steerer tube (2), wherein the tightening torque of this connection is preferably in a range from 1 to 5 Nm, preferably in a range from 2 to 4 Nm, and more preferably is 3 Nm.

3. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 2, characterised in that the ring clamping section is attached to the fork steerer tube (2) with a predetermined frictional connection force for suitable energy dissipation in the event of a rotational force action by means of a predetermined tightening torque of the screw connection (13), wherein a maximum transmissible torque or breakaway torque in a range of preferably 4 to 90 Nm, preferably in a range of 10 to 70 Nm and more preferably in a range of 15 to 50 Nm is provided in such a frictional connection.

4. Bicycle and / or LEV according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the fastening device (10; 10', 10 ") comprises a fastening projection (15; 15'), which extends from a radial edge region approximately in the direction of a longitudinal axis (L) of the fastening device (10; 10', 10"), to which the functional unit (20) is attached or integrally formed by means of a screw connection, click connection, clamping connection or magnetic connection.

5. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 4, characterised in that the fastening projection (15; 15') comprises a bar section that extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L), which is preferably arranged between the fastening section (11) of the fastening device (10; 10', 10") and the functional unit (20).

6. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 5, characterised in that the bar section has two limbs (16a, 16b; 17a, 17b) that extend approximately parallel to one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) and are spaced apart from one another by a gap (12), wherein the functional unit (20) is attached to at least one of the limbs.

7. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 5 or 6, characterised in that the limbs (17a, 17b) of the bar section comprise a stop device for limiting the steering angle of the bicycle and / or LEV, wherein the side sections of the respective limbs (17a, 17b) that face sideways from the bar section preferably respectively form stop sections (19a, 19b) of the stop device.

8. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 7, characterised in that frame-side counter-stop elements (30a, 30b) are provided on the head tube (4) of the bicycle and / or LEV as a counter-stop device that is allocated to the stop device for limiting the steering angle, which counter-stop elements are designed, for example, as a single piece with the head tube (4) of the bicycle and / or LEV or counter-stop elements (30a, 30b) are provided, in particular by means of a screw connection (22), fastened in the head tube (4), which counter-stop elements (30a, 30b) are preferably designed as counter-stop elements (30a, 30b) that are adjustable in height via elongated holes (33b) that are provided in the head tube (4).

9. Bicycle and / or LEV according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the functional unit (20) has an aperture (23), which is designed as a lens system for focusing and / or reducing the light cone, as a reflector unit or as a tinting agent for darkening certain light exit regions, wherein a visor or shield for directing the light cone is preferably also provided above the aperture (23).

10. Bicycle and / or LEV according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the functional unit (20) is adapted in its geometric design to the contour of the allocated section of the fork steerer tube (2) and / or the inner curvature of the head tube (4) in such a manner that an approximately flush contact with the allocated section of the fork steerer tube (2) and / or a collision-free rotational movement is ensured.

11. Bicycle and / or LEV according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the head tube (4) of the bicycle and / or LEV has a cut-out opening (6) in the front region, which cut-out opening is adapted in terms of its geometric dimension, its circumferential extension and / or its transparency to the mode of operation of the functional unit (20).

12. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 11, characterised in that the cut-out opening (6) is provided as an inspection opening for mounting, replacing and / or adjusting the functional unit (20) and / or the fastening device (10; 10').

13. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the cut-out opening (6) can be closed by means of a preferably at least partially transparent cover (7), which can be attached, preferably flush, to the cut-out opening (6) by means of a clip connection, clamping connection, screw connection or magnetic connection.

14. Bicycle and / or LEV according to claim 13, characterised in that the transparent cover (7) is designed as a functional component for protecting the functional unit (20) against weather influences, as protection of the functional unit (20) against theft or damage, as a lens system for focusing and / or reducing the light cone, as a reflector unit or as a tinting agent for darkening certain light exit regions.