ELECTRIC CYCLE AND ELECTRIC CYCLE CONTROL DEVICE

Abstract

ELECTRIC CYCLE AND ELECTRIC CYCLE CONTROL DEVICE The invention relates to a control device (10) for an electric cycle (20) comprising a brake lever (23), an electric motor (14), an energy storage device (12), the control device (10) comprising a power supply circuit (11), a control unit (13) for the electric motor (14), a brake relay (28) for interrupting the power supply to the motor (14) by actuating the brake lever (23), characterized in that the control device (10) comprises an engagement sensor (15) activated by the brake lever (23) and for powering the control unit (13), and a holding circuit (16) comprising a holding relay (17) controlled by the control unit to maintain the power supply to the control unit (13). Figure for the abstract: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: ELECTRICAL CYCLE AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING AN ELECTRICAL CYCLE Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a control device for an electric cycle, in particular a control device for an electric motor assisting the propulsion of a cycle. More particularly, the invention relates to a control device for an electric cycle motor whose ignition provides optimized safety and energy management.

[0002] The invention also relates to an electric cycle, namely an electrically assisted cycle, in particular an electrically assisted bicycle, comprising such a control device. Technological background

[0003] Electrically assisted bicycles offer numerous advantages, including the distribution of effort exerted by the user, which at least partially mitigates the effects of the terrain. Such bicycles include an energy storage device, generally a battery, and thus provide propulsion assistance during the most energy-intensive phases, such as uphill climbs.

[0004] Such cycles therefore generally include a control device for the electric assist motor which in some cases allows the electric motor to be controlled by means of a manual control operated by a user and / or in other cases to automatically manage the electric assistance provided by the motor according to one or more parameters.

[0005] Such control devices may include several functionalities, often including a safety function to disable the power supply to the motor when a brake is activated by the user.

[0006] Thus, US patent 5,505,277 describes a bicycle comprising a battery, an electric motor for propulsion assistance, and a sensor that adapts the power of assistance provided according to the effort exerted by the user and, in particular, cuts off the motor's power supply upon detection of an anomaly. To this end, the bicycle includes an electric motor control circuit that controls the motor's power supply and that can, in particular, isolate the motor from the power supply provided by the battery. The control circuit of a bicycle according to this patent is adapted to cut off the motor's power supply when a brake switch is activated.

[0007] Nevertheless, the control circuit described in this document is permanently activated, which represents a significant energy expenditure of the battery during the many long periods of inactivity in most cycles.

[0008] To conserve battery power on electrically assisted bicycles during periods of inactivity, many models include a power button to switch the control unit on or off, thereby activating or deactivating the bicycle's electric assistance. However, these buttons can be sensitive to shocks or water.

[0009] Furthermore, a software error or user handling error at ignition can, in some cases, prove dangerous, as the engine is potentially then immediately powered. Objectives of the invention

[0010] The invention aims to provide a particularly safe cycle and cycle control device.

[0011] The invention also aims to provide a cycle and a cycle control device that are energy-efficient.

[0012] The invention aims to provide, in addition, a cycle and a cycle control device that are easy and intuitive to use.

[0013] The invention also aims to provide a cycle and a cycle control device that are robust and weather-resistant.

[0014] The invention also aims to provide a simple and economical cycle and cycle control device.

[0015] The invention also aims to provide, in at least one embodiment, a cycle and a cycle control device that offer a user-friendly human-machine interface. Description of the invention

[0016] To this end, the invention relates to a device for controlling an electrical cycle, said device comprising • a main power supply circuit suitable for connection to an electrical energy storage device, • a control unit: • mounted on the main power supply circuit so that it can be supplied with electrical energy by the energy storage device, • Adapted to control an electric motor of the cycle, • A brake relay adapted to be activated by operating a brake lever on the cycle,

[0017] the control unit and the brake relay being arranged so that, the brake relay being activated, the electrical supply to the motor is interrupted,

[0018] characterized in that it further comprises: • an activation sensor: • adapted to be activated by actuation of said brake lever, • interposed on the main power supply circuit so as to, being activated, allowing power to the control unit, • a power supply maintenance circuit: • arranged to be able to supply the control unit with electrical power from the energy storage device, • including a holding relay controlled by the control unit.

[0019] Throughout the text, the term "electric cycle" refers to a cycle comprising at least one electric motor for propulsion or assistance to the propulsion of the cycle.

[0020] When a device according to the invention is mounted in an electric cycle, actuation of a brake lever of the cycle allows both and simultaneously: - to start the control unit of the electric motor via the engagement sensor, - to isolate the motor from any electrical power supply via the brake relay.

[0021] A control device according to the invention thus makes it possible to obtain a particularly safe electrical cycle according to the invention. Indeed, the starting of the motor control unit occurs simultaneously with electrical isolation of the electric motor from its energy source. In this way, any unintended starting of the electric motor when the control unit is switched on is prevented.

[0022] Furthermore, using a brake lever to mount a bicycle is particularly natural and instinctive, as it allows the wheel(s) of the bicycle to be immobilized when a user mounts the bicycle. The use of a bicycle according to the invention is therefore particularly safe, simple, and intuitive for the user.

[0023] The electric motor is an electric motor that assists in propelling the cycle. The electric motor provides mechanical energy to assist the user in propelling the cycle. In certain phases of use, the electric motor can function as a current generator by converting excess mechanical energy into electrical energy that can be stored in the energy storage device.

[0024] A motor power supply circuit is adapted to be connected to the energy storage device and the electric propulsion assist motor of the cycle so as to supply said motor with electrical energy. The motor power supply circuit may further include a voltage converter with a variable output voltage controlled by the control unit to allow the power to be varied electrical power supplied to the electric motor. Conversely, the voltage converter allows the electrical energy supplied by the electric motor - then operating as a generator - to be converted into electrical energy in the electrical energy storage device of the cycle.

[0025] The main power supply circuit is adapted to electrically connect the control unit to an electrical energy storage device.

[0026] The main power supply circuit may, for example, include an electrical connector suitable for being connected to an electrical energy storage device of the cycle, such as a battery for example.

[0027] The main power supply circuit is adapted to be connected to a power supply input of the control unit. The main power supply circuit may also include an electrical connector adapted to be connected to the power supply input of the control unit.

[0028] The control unit is programmed to control the electric propulsion assistance motor. In particular, the control unit is adapted to control the power supplied to the electric motor. Thus, the control unit can, for example, control the output voltage of a current converter connected to the electric motor, or the switching frequency of transistors to vary the rotational speed of the electric motor.

[0029] The control unit is programmed to control the electric motor.

[0030] In particular, the control unit is programmed to control the power supply to the electric motor assisting the propulsion of the cycle according to various parameters, including, for example: - the inclination of the cycle - which can be representative of the inclination of the ground on which the cycle moves and therefore of the effort required from a user, - the charge level of the electrical energy storage device, - the torque supplied by a user on a bicycle's crankset, - a user-selected operating mode - such as, for example, a sport mode requiring more effort or an easy mode providing more sustained electric assistance, - etc.

[0031] The control unit can also be programmed to control other electrical elements of the cycle such as lighting, a derailleur, etc.

[0032] The control unit may, for example, include a microprocessor or a microcontroller enabling it to execute instructions. The control unit includes a memory in which a program is stored.

[0033] The control unit includes an operating mode in which it executes instructions from its program, and a shutdown mode in which it is no longer powered by electricity. Thus, in its stop mode, the control unit consumes no electrical energy, so that a device according to the invention and a cycle according to the invention are particularly energy economical.

[0034] The brake relay is activated by actuation of the brake lever simultaneously with the engagement sensor.

[0035] To this end, in certain embodiments, the brake relay is activated upon activation of the engagement sensor. The brake relay may, for example, be a relay or a field-effect transistor controlled by the state of the engagement sensor.

[0036] Activating the brake relay interrupts the motor's power supply. For this purpose, the brake relay can be connected to an input of the control unit. The control unit is also programmed to interrupt the electric motor's power supply upon receiving a brake relay activation signal on this input. More specifically, as long as the control unit receives a brake relay activation signal, it interrupts the electric motor's power supply. Thus, each time and as long as the brake lever is operated, whether when the control unit is switched on or during subsequent actuations of the brake lever during cycle operation, the motor's power supply is interrupted.

[0037] The holding relay can, for example, be a monostable or bistable relay, voltage-controlled by the control unit. The holding relay can, for example, be a relay or a field-effect transistor controlled by an output of the control unit.

[0038] The holding relay is interposed on the holding circuit so as to open or close said holding circuit.

[0039] The holding circuit is adapted to electrically connect the control unit to an electrical energy storage device. The holding circuit may, for example, include an electrical connector adapted to be connected to the energy storage device. The holding circuit is also adapted to be connected to a power supply input of the control unit.

[0040] The engagement sensor is mounted on the main power supply circuit between a connection to the electrical energy storage device and the control unit, so as to allow the control unit to be powered by actuation of said engagement relay when the main power supply circuit is connected to an electrical power source.

[0041] The engagement sensor is interposed on the main power supply circuit so that, when inactivated, it does not allow the control unit to be powered via the main power supply circuit.

[0042] However, the control unit can be powered by another circuit when the The activation sensor is deactivated. In particular, the control unit can be powered via the aforementioned holding circuit.

[0043] Thus, with the control unit in standby mode – and therefore without power – activation of the on / off sensor powers the control unit. Once the control unit is activated in an operating mode by the activation of the on / off sensor, the control unit itself manages to maintain or deactivate this operating mode and cut off its power supply by an appropriate control of the holding relay.

[0044] Thus, when the brake lever is released, after the control unit has been switched on, the control unit remains powered via the holding circuit.

[0045] Since the engagement sensor is directly interposed on the control unit's power supply circuit, a device according to the invention is particularly simple and robust to failure, but also very responsive.

[0046] In a device according to the invention, the switching sensor is connected to the control unit by a wired link and not by a wireless link, thus minimizing the energy used while the control unit is stopped.

[0047] The activation sensor is advantageously a passive element that does not consume energy. Such a device is therefore energy-efficient because the activation sensor does not consume energy when the device is off.

[0048] The engagement sensor of the invention is adapted to be mounted in a brake lever so that it can be activated by actuation of the brake lever.

[0049] Furthermore, the activation sensor can be a logic sensor.

[0050] A logic sensor produces an on / off signal. More particularly, in the invention, the logic sensor allows or prevents electric current from flowing in the main power supply circuit, between the power source and the control unit. When the on / off sensor is activated, it conducts, so the control unit is powered; when it is not activated, it does not allow electric current to flow in the main power supply circuit.

[0051] The activation sensor can be implemented in various ways. The activation sensor can, for example, be a switch, or an electrical contactor such as a dry contact.

[0052] A control device and a cycle according to the invention are free of a control unit activation button. A control device and a cycle according to the invention are free of a control unit start and / or stop button. In particular, the control device is free of a physical button but also of a simulated button – for example, on an interface screen. Thus, a control device and a cycle according to the invention are particularly robust, simple, and eco-

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[0061] standards in mechanical parts. In particular, the invention makes it possible to minimize the use of parts sensitive to shocks or water. Furthermore, a device according to the invention further comprises an electrical converter adapted to provide a regulated voltage current from an unregulated voltage current, said converter being interposed: - on the main power supply circuit, upstream of a power input to the control unit, - on the maintenance circuit, upstream of the control unit's power input. The converter allows the control unit to be supplied with a current of stable values, including stable voltage, despite an electrical energy source whose values, particularly electrical voltage, could vary over time. The converter can be a direct current to direct current (DC / DC) converter. More specifically, the converter can be a wide-range DC / DC converter capable of delivering a stable voltage current from a current whose voltage can vary widely between a minimum and a maximum value. The DC / DC converter, and in particular the wideband DC / DC converter, is particularly advantageous in the case of a capacitive type electrical energy source, for example a supercapacitor or a group of supercapacitors. A device according to the invention further comprises a brake lever adapted to actuate: - the brake relay, - the activation sensor, - a cycle braking device. A device according to the invention may include a brake lever in which the engagement sensor and the brake relay are mounted. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, there is nothing to prevent the control unit from also being located in the brake lever. Activating the cycle's brake lever activates a cycle braking device. The brake lever is suitable for operating, directly or indirectly: - the cycle's braking device, - the activation sensor, - the brake relay. A braking device for a cycle according to the invention comprises the elements necessary for braking the cycle. In particular, the braking device comprises a cycle braking mechanism such as, for example, an electromagnetic brake enabling recharging of the energy storage device, and / or a mechanical friction brake and its transmission cable, etc.

[0062] Thus, in a control device and a cycle according to the invention, the actuation of a brake lever simultaneously allows: - to activate a cycle braking device, limiting or preventing the cycle from moving forward or backward, - to activate the control unit when it was previously stopped, and - to isolate the electric motor of the cycle from its power supply, thus preventing the cycle from being driven - both forwards and backwards.

[0063] Thus, thanks to a control device according to the invention, the activation of the electric assistance of a cycle according to the invention is particularly safe. Indeed, the invention ensures that the cycle remains firmly stationary at the moment of activation – in particular at the moment the control unit is switched on.

[0064] A device according to the invention further includes an electrical energy storage device adapted to connect the main power supply circuit.

[0065] The electrical energy storage device forms the electrical energy source of a control device according to the invention and in particular of the control unit.

[0066] The energy storage device may include a socket for connecting a connector from the main power supply circuit. In other embodiments, the connection between the main power supply circuit and the energy storage device is integrated, so that the connection between the main power supply circuit and the energy storage device is fixed, for example, achieved by soldering.

[0067] Other electrical circuits, such as the holding circuit or the motor supply circuit, can be connected directly to the energy storage device or to the main supply circuit.

[0068] The electrical energy storage device can be of different types such as, for example, an electrochemical battery, one or more capacitors (sometimes called "supercapacitors"), etc.

[0069] In certain embodiments of the invention, the electrical energy storage device is a supercapacitor. Throughout this text, the term "supercapacitor" refers to one or more electrical capacitors connected together to form an electrical energy storage device. Thus, a supercapacitor according to the invention may comprise several units, each of which can also be considered as a supercapacitor.

[0070] The control unit is programmed to:

[0071] - generate a first output signal for a human-machine interface,

[0072] - upon receipt of at least one signal generated by actuation of the brake lever, generate a second output signal, different from the first output signal, for the human-machine interface.

[0073] The control unit includes an input / output interface comprising at least one input connected to the engagement sensor and / or the brake relay. With both the engagement sensor and the brake relay activated upon actuation of the brake lever, the control unit receives a signal, referred to as the brake input, generated by the actuation of the brake lever, at this input.

[0074] In such embodiments of the invention: - Activating the on / off sensor when the control unit is off allows the control unit to be powered and therefore activated. - Activating the engagement sensor when the control unit is already in operation allows a braking signal to be sent to the control unit.

[0075] In a device according to the invention, the engagement sensor, adapted to be actuated by a brake lever, allows a user not only to activate the electric assist of their bicycle initially, but also to interact with the control unit once it is activated. Activating the brake lever thus allows, via the engagement sensor, the use of the brake lever as an input interface for instructions sent by the user to the control unit.

[0076] In particular, upon receiving one or more braking signals, the control unit is programmed to generate an output signal for a human-machine interface, such as a screen. More specifically, if the human-machine interface already displays certain information to the user, upon receiving one or more braking signals, the control unit is programmed to generate an output signal that allows the user to modify the display on the human-machine interface. Thus, such a device allows the user, for example, to navigate a virtual menu using the bicycle's brake lever. This device also allows the user to navigate and modify control unit settings, such as, for example, activating or deactivating the start-up assist.

[0077] A device according to the invention may further include a screen adapted to receive signals from the control unit and form an information display for a user.

[0078] Alternatively or in combination, in a device according to the invention, the control unit includes a communication interface generating a signal for a human-machine interface not forming part of the device according to the invention. Thus, for example, the control unit may include a communication interface capable of generating a signal—for example, a wireless signal—for a the user's mobile phone, so as to display an interface for interaction with the device according to the invention.

[0079] The brake relay is controlled by the engagement sensor.

[0080] In particular, the brake relay can be mounted so as to provide an electrical output voltage which is a function of the state of the engagement sensor.

[0081] For example, the brake relay may include a field-effect transistor (commonly abbreviated FET) controlled by the engagement sensor connected to the gate of the transistor so that the output voltage on the drain of the transistor is modified when the logic state of the engagement sensor changes.

[0082] Upon receiving a braking signal from the brake relay, the control unit is adapted to suspend the power supply to the electric motor. Thus, actuating the brake lever suspends the motor's power supply.

[0083] In some embodiments of the invention, it is the brake relay, controlled by the engagement sensor, which is connected to a braking input of the control unit to control the motor and / or a human-machine interface.

[0084] A device according to the invention further comprises a second activation sensor:

[0085] - adapted to be able to be activated by actuation of a second brake lever of the cycle,

[0086] - interposed on the main power supply circuit so as to, when activated, allow the power supply for the control unit.

[0087] Thus, in a device according to the invention, cycles - in particular bicycles - generally comprising two brake levers, one for each of the user's hands, the control unit can be activated either by the actuation of one brake lever, or by the actuation of the other brake lever or even by the simultaneous actuation of both brake levers of the cycle.

[0088] The second activation sensor can be identical in all respects to the first activation sensor. The digital or analog output(s) of the second activation sensor can, however, advantageously be connected to separate inputs of the control unit.

[0089] Furthermore, in certain embodiments of the invention: - The input / output interface of the control unit is connected via at least one input to the second activation sensor, and - the control unit is programmed to, upon receiving at least one signal generated by activation of the second engagement sensor, generate a second output signal, different from the first output signal, for a human-machine interface.

[0090] Thus, each of the two brake levers can be used as an instruction input interface by a user to the control unit.

[0091] In certain embodiments, the second engagement sensor can be connected to the brake relay so as to control the brake relay and thus provide a braking signal to the control unit via the brake relay, with the effect, for example, of interrupting the motor's power supply and / or interacting with a human-machine interface. In such embodiments, the brake relay can be activated independently by the first engagement sensor or by the second engagement sensor.

[0092] In other embodiments, the first engagement sensor and the second engagement sensor can each be connected to a separate input of the control unit's input / output interface, such that the input signals received from each brake lever have a different effect on the processes implemented by the control unit based on its programming. Thus, each brake lever allows for distinct interaction with the user interface provided by a device according to the invention. For example, actuation of the first brake lever can allow navigation through a virtual menu with multiple options, while actuation of the second brake lever can allow selection of an option within that menu.

[0093] The control device may include a second brake relay adapted to: - be able to be activated by actuation of said second brake lever, - when activated, cause the interruption of the electrical supply to the motor.

[0094] Thus, the actuation of the second brake lever, and the activation of the control unit triggered by this actuation, can be carried out under the same safety conditions as the activation of the control unit triggered by the actuation of the first brake lever, namely that the motor is deactivated at the moment of activation of the control unit in order to prevent any unwanted premature start-up. The first brake lever and the second brake lever can then be used interchangeably to activate the electric assistance of the bicycle.

[0095] Furthermore, in certain embodiments of the invention, the control unit is programmed to keep the holding relay closed for a predetermined period, referred to as the inactivity period, after the holding relay has closed. In particular, the control unit can trigger an inactivity timer which it compares to an inactivity period value stored in memory. Once this inactivity period has elapsed, the control unit is programmed to release the holding relay command, so that the holding relay opens and the power supply to the control unit is completely cut off. Thus, the control unit consumes no more energy once the inactivity period has elapsed.

[0096] The control unit can be programmed to restart the inactivity timer whenever a predetermined event representative of an activity or cycle usage by a user occurs. Such events can be of various kinds, such as, for example: - the activation of a brake lever, detected for example by the activation of the engagement sensor and / or the brake relay, - the detection of cycle usage based on signals transmitted by a sensor such as, for example: • a motion sensor, • a tilt sensor, • a torque sensor in a crankset or in the electric motor of the bicycle, • a thermal sensor, • a pressure sensor, • etc.

[0097] In particular, in certain embodiments, the device may include at least one sensor disposed in at least one element of the cycle chosen from: a saddle, a handlebar, a pedal, a crankset, the electric motor, a fork, a wheel, a frame, etc.

[0098] In particular, a motion or tilt sensor, such as an accelerometer for example, makes it possible to detect an acceleration or vibration of the cycle; a torque sensor in the crankset or in the motor makes it possible to detect the pedaling of a user; a thermal or pressure sensor in the handlebar or in the saddle makes it possible to detect the contact of a user; etc.

[0099] Since the inactivity timer is restarted each time a user detects ongoing use, the control unit remains in an operating mode in which it is supplied with electricity by the power source as long as at least one of the sensors of the device and / or the cycle sends signals representative of cycle use.

[0100] The invention thus makes it possible to minimize the energy consumed by the control device, which is in a state of complete shutdown when the cycle is not in use, while also minimizing the number of parts required to achieve this result. The use of the energy storage device's load is therefore optimized.

[0101] The invention extends to an electrical cycle comprising:

[0102] - at least one braking device,

[0103] - at least one brake lever adapted to be able to operate the brake device,

[0104] - at least one electric motor,

[0105] - at least one electrical energy storage device,

[0106] - a control device comprising:

[0107] • a main power supply circuit connected to the storage device of energy,

[0108] • a control unit:

[0109] o mounted on the main power supply circuit so that it can be supplied with electrical energy by the energy storage device,

[0110] o adapted to control the electric motor,

[0111] • a brake relay adapted to be activated by operating the lever cycle brake

[0112] the control unit and the brake relay being arranged so that, the brake relay being activated, the electrical supply to the motor is interrupted,

[0113] characterized in that the control device further comprises:

[0114] - an engagement sensor:

[0115] • adapted to be activated by actuation of said brake lever,

[0116] • interposed on the main power supply circuit so that, when activated, it supplies the electrical control unit,

[0117] - a power supply maintenance circuit:

[0118] • arranged to be able to supply the control unit with electrical energy from energy storage device,

[0119] • comprising a holding relay controlled by the control unit.

[0120] The invention applies in particular to a common category of cycles: the bicycle. However, nothing prevents the invention from being extended to a unicycle or a tricycle, provided that it has at least one brake lever.

[0121] A bicycle according to the invention advantageously comprises handlebars that allow the user to grip them. The handlebars may include one or more brake levers. In particular, the handlebars may include a right-hand brake lever adapted and arranged to be operated by the user's right hand. Similarly, the handlebars may include a left-hand brake lever adapted and arranged to be operated by the user's left hand. Each brake lever may, for example, be pivotally mounted on the handlebars, with an elastic return to a rest position.

[0122] A cycle according to the invention includes a crankset. It is a pedal-driven cycle, that is to say, one in which at least part of the propulsion is provided by a user. As previously stated, the electric motor of the cycle can provide mechanical energy to assist the propulsion of the cycle or operate as a current generator so as to accumulate electrical energy in the energy storage device.

[0123] A cycle according to the invention comprises a single energy storage device for power the control unit and the electric motor.

[0124] In certain embodiments, a cycle according to the invention comprises a single energy storage device. The cycle is thus particularly simple, and the control device does not require an additional battery for its operation. Therefore, no battery replacement is necessary for the control device to function, simplifying its use and making it more weather-resistant.

[0125] A cycle according to the invention is free of a mains-powered charging device for the energy storage device. In particular, the cycle is free of a plug and a charging transformer that converts mains alternating current into direct current (AC / DC). Thus, a cycle according to the invention is particularly economical and weather-resistant.

[0126] In such a cycle, all the energy required for movement by the cycle is supplied by a user. However, the electrical energy storage device, the electric assist motor, and the control device make it possible to manage the effort supplied by a user and to distribute it by: assisting the effort during phases requiring more mechanical energy, such as climbing a hill, for example, and storing energy—sometimes partly supplied by the user—during phases with an excess of mechanical energy, such as descending a hill.

[0127] The invention also relates to a control device and a cycle characterized in combination by all or part of the features mentioned above or below. List of figures

[0128] Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of non-limiting example only, and which refers to the accompanying figures in which: • Figure [1] is a schematic view of a control device according to the invention, • [Fig.2] is a schematic view of a cycle according to the invention.

[0129] Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention

[0130] In the figures, scales and proportions are not strictly respected for the purposes of illustration and clarity.

[0131] Identical, similar or analogous elements are designated by the same reference numerals in all figures.

[0132] Figure 1 schematically presents the elements of an embodiment of a control device 10 according to the invention. In this diagram, the electrical paths represented by intersecting lines are not electrically connected to each other; the black dots represent connections between electrical paths.

[0133] In this embodiment, the control device 10 comprises: - an energy storage device 12, which is a supercapacitor, - a control unit 13, which is a microcontroller, - a 15-position activation sensor, - a DC / DC converter 18.

[0134] These elements are electrically connected to each other by a main power supply circuit 11. In particular, the main power supply circuit 11 is connected to the terminals of the energy storage device 12. In the main power supply circuit 11, the DC / DC converter 18 is interposed between the energy storage device 12 and the control unit 13 so as to regulate the electrical voltage supplied by the energy storage device and provide a regulated voltage to the control unit 13. In addition, on this main power supply circuit 11, said switching sensor 15 is interposed between the energy storage device 12 and the DC / DC converter 18.

[0135] The inrush sensor 15 is a switch, or dry contactor, so that it can close or open the main supply circuit 11. The inrush sensor 15 is normally open.

[0136] The engagement sensor 15 is mounted in a brake lever (not shown in this figure) so that it is closed by actuation of the brake lever. Thus, actuation of the brake lever closes the main power supply circuit 11, and the control unit is thereby supplied with electricity from the energy storage device 12 at a voltage regulated by the DC / DC converter 18. Actuation of the brake lever thus allows the control unit to be switched on when it was in a completely stopped state, thereby maximizing the energy stored by the supercapacitor 12 during periods of inactivity in the cycle.

[0137] The device may further include a voltage divider bridge to prevent the control unit from switching on when the voltage supplied by the supercapacitor 12 is not sufficient for its normal operation.

[0138] The control device 10 also includes a brake relay 28. The brake relay 28 is connected to the engagement sensor 15 so as to be controlled by the engagement sensor 15.

[0139] Together, the engagement sensor 15 and the brake relay 28 form a brake sensor 27. The brake sensor 27 has both a power output allowing the main circuit 11 to be closed on the control unit 13 to supply it with electricity, and a digital output allowing a logic information to be given to the control unit 13 which can then, for example, upon receiving the logic information, open a motor safety relay to isolate the electric motor 14 from its electrical energy source 12.

[0140] When a brake lever is operated, the motor 14 can nevertheless remain connected to an electrical converter to recharge the energy storage device 12. In particular, the control unit is adapted to, upon receiving a braking signal, control the motor 14 so that it transforms the mechanical energy transmitted to it into electrical energy in order to store it in the energy storage device 12.

[0141] The brake relay 28 is capable of delivering a signal, called the braking signal, in the form of an output voltage. The output of the brake relay 28 is connected to an input of an input / output interface of the control unit, called the braking input. Thus, when the engagement sensor 15 is activated by actuation of the brake lever, the control unit receives information at this braking input that represents the actuation of the brake lever. The control unit is advantageously programmed so that, upon receiving a braking signal at this braking input that represents the actuation of the brake lever via the engagement sensor 15 and the brake relay 28, it interrupts the power supply to the motor 14. Thus, each time the brake lever is activated, the power supply to the motor is automatically interrupted, including as soon as the control unit is switched on.

[0142] The brake relay may include a field-effect transistor whose gate is connected to the engagement sensor 15 so as to become conducting when the engagement sensor 15 is closed and thus provide a predetermined voltage on the braking input of the control unit.

[0143] The control device 10 further includes a holding circuit 16. This holding circuit 16 connects the energy storage device 12 to the control unit 13 via the DC / DC converter 18.

[0144] The holding circuit 16 includes a holding relay 17 controlled by the control unit 13. The holding relay 17 allows the control unit 13, once initially energized by the closing of the engagement sensor 15, to maintain its power supply by keeping the holding relay 17 in the closed position. In particular, the holding circuit 16 and its holding relay 17 allow the control unit 13 to maintain its power supply once the brake lever is released and the engagement sensor 15 has returned to the open position.

[0145] The control unit can be programmed to close the holding relay 17 as soon as it is energized, or to close the holding relay 17 upon receipt of the braking signal from the brake relay 28.

[0146] The holding relay 17 can be a monostable or bistable relay. The holding relay 17 can, for example, comprise a transistor whose gate is connected to a voltage output of the control unit so as to be controlled by the control unit 13.

[0147] Furthermore, as previously explained, the control unit 13 is programmed to, after a predetermined period of inactivity, open the holding relay 17, so that, with the brake lever otherwise unused and the engagement sensor 15 in the open position, the power supply to the control unit is cut off and it is stopped. Its power consumption is then zero during the non-use phases of the cycle.

[0148] However, as long as the control unit receives signals representative of the use of the cycle at time intervals shorter than said inactivity time, it keeps the holding relay 17 closed.

[0149] The control device 10 also includes a brake sensor 29. The brake sensor 29 can advantageously be mounted in a second brake lever, for cycles having two brake levers. The brake sensor 29 is mounted in the second brake lever (not shown in this figure) so that it is closed by actuation of the brake lever. The brake sensor 29 is capable of delivering a signal, called the braking signal, in the form of an output voltage. The output of the brake sensor 29 is connected to a second braking input of the control unit. Thus, with the brake sensor 29 activated by actuation of the second brake lever, the control unit receives information on this second braking input regarding the closure of the second brake lever.The control unit is advantageously programmed to interrupt the power supply to motor 14 upon receiving a braking signal on this second braking input. Thus, each time the second brake lever is activated, regardless of whether the first brake lever is activated or not, the power supply to the electric motor 14 is interrupted. In such embodiments, the braking sensor 29 may, for example, comprise a dry contact that applies a voltage to the braking input of the control unit, from a positive value to a reference value.For example, the dry contactor of the brake sensor 29 can be connected to a negative terminal of the energy storage device, while the voltage at the brake input of the control unit is normally maintained by a software pull-up resistor of predetermined positive value, so that this voltage is brought back to the voltage of the negative terminal of the energy storage device by actuation of the second brake lever.

[0150] However, in certain embodiments not shown here, nothing prevents the brake sensor 29, instead of being activated directly by the actuation of the second brake lever, from being controlled by a second engagement sensor, said second engagement sensor being activated by the actuation of the second brake lever. Thus, the diagram described above in relation to a first brake lever, the first engagement sensor 15 and the relay The function of the brake lever 28 could be replicated in the second brake lever with a second engagement sensor and a second brake relay, the second brake relay then replacing the brake sensor 29. Furthermore, the second engagement sensor could also, like the first engagement sensor 15, be interposed in the main power supply circuit 11 – or in a similar parallel circuit – so as to power the control unit upon the first actuation of the second brake lever while the control unit is stationary. In such embodiments, the control unit can thus be independently activated by both the actuation of the first brake lever and the actuation of the second brake lever.

[0151] As previously explained, the control unit 13 can be programmed to perform certain predetermined operations upon receiving signals on the first or second braking input. In particular, the control unit can be adapted to produce output signals for a communication interface 19 designed to provide signals interpretable by a human-machine interface. The control unit can produce output signals for the communication interface 19, the content of which depends on signals received on its braking inputs. Thus, a human-machine interface can be controlled by actuating the brake levers of the cycle.

[0152] Furthermore, the brake lever may include an intermediate position in which the engagement sensor is activated but the mechanical brake is not activated. Thus, the mechanical travel of the brake lever can be configured to allow the engagement sensor to be activated in a first portion of its travel without activating the mechanical brake, and then, in a second portion of its travel, to activate both the engagement sensor and the mechanical brake of the cycle. This first portion of its travel allows control of the human-machine interface without activating the mechanical brake of the cycle.

[0153] Furthermore, the control unit is adapted to control the power supply to the electric motor 14 of the cycle. In particular, the control unit can control the power and frequency supplied to the electric motor. The control unit is adapted to control a three-phase pre-driver of the electric motor 14. The pre-driver may include a DC / DC converter delivering an output voltage, for example, 5V, to the electric motor. A second DC / DC converter may be mounted at the output of the DC / DC converter in the pre-driver to reduce the voltage to a lower voltage, for example, 3V, for the control unit. The engagement sensor and the main circuit are then arranged to allow this cascaded arrangement of the DC / DC converters.

[0154] In certain embodiments, the control unit may further receive input information from a throttle lever 30 located on the handlebar 21 and control the electrical supply of the motor according to a value received on this input, so as to allow a user to control the acceleration provided by the electric motor 14.

[0155] Figure 2 represents a cycle 20 according to the invention schematically. In this For example, cycle 20 includes two wheels; it is a bicycle.

[0156] The bicycle 20 includes an electric motor 14 for propulsion assistance, and an electrical energy storage device 12 which is a supercapacitor.

[0157] The bicycle also includes a control device according to the invention comprising in particular an engagement sensor 15 and a control unit 13. The electrical wires connecting the multiple elements of the invention are not shown, for the sake of clarity.

[0158] The bicycle 20 further comprises a handlebar 21, on which a brake lever 23 is mounted on each side of the handlebar, one on the right and the other on the left of a sagittal plane of the bicycle. Each brake lever 23 activates an engagement sensor 15 of the control device.

[0159] The bicycle 20 also includes a saddle 22 and a crankset 24 comprising two pedals 25 enabling a user to exert effort to propel the cycle.

[0160] In particular, in this cycle, the motor is mounted at the rear wheel so as to be able to assist the propulsion of the cycle by transforming electrical energy into mechanical energy, or to generate electricity by recovering mechanical energy from the wheel - including without pedaling by the user - for example on a descent.

[0161] The pedal assembly 24 is connected to the electric motor 14, for example by a chain or a belt, so that the motor can recover some of the mechanical energy supplied by the user and transform it into electrical energy to store it in the supercapacitor 12.

[0162] The brake lever 23 of the bicycle 20 is part of a braking device that may include the electric motor 14. Indeed, the electric motor 14 can brake the bicycle by being used as an electricity generator. In addition, the braking device may include a mechanical brake, for example a rim brake 26, allowing at least one of the wheels to be braked by friction through the operation of the brake lever 23.

[0163] In this embodiment, the control device further includes an acceleration sensor 32 in a pedal 25, for example an accelerometer. The control device also includes a pressure sensor 31 located in the saddle 22 of the bicycle. The device also includes a torque sensor 33 disposed in the axle of the crankset 24. These sensors are connected to inputs of the control unit 13 to send them signals representing acceleration and pressure, respectively.

[0164] The control unit is programmed to process signals received from the acceleration sensor 32 and the pressure sensor 31. In particular, as previously explained, upon receiving one or more signals from these sensors, the control unit resets an inactivity timer, preventing it from shutting down. The control unit therefore keeps the hold relay 17 closed as long as it receives signals from the pressure sensor 31 or the acceleration sensor 32 at intervals shorter than a predetermined inactivity period stored in memory.

[0165] Indeed, accelerations at the bottom bracket, whether they correspond to pedaling by a user or to vibrations, can, beyond a certain threshold, be indicative of bicycle use. Similarly, pressure on the saddle, particularly pressure beyond a certain threshold, is usually indicative of bicycle use 20, with the user seated on the saddle 22.

[0166] When the control unit is stationary, accelerating the pedal 25 or applying pressure to the saddle 22 does not activate the control unit. However, when the control unit is in operation, detecting accelerating the pedal 25 or applying pressure to the saddle 22 generally indicates ongoing use by a user, and the control unit is thus kept powered for a minimum period known as the inactivity time.

[0167] Similarly, the control unit keeps the hold relay 17 closed by resetting the idle timer as long as it receives signals from the brake levers 23 (via the engagement sensors and brake relays) or from the throttle lever 30.

[0168] The control device is adapted to be able to send wireless signals. In particular, the control unit 13 can be connected to a wireless communication interface 19 adapted to send wireless signals to a portable device 51 having a human-machine interface such as a screen.

[0169] The cycle 20 advantageously includes an engagement sensor in each of the brake levers 23. Furthermore, the control unit is programmed so that, when already running, the activation of the engagement sensors triggers the transmission of wireless signals from the control unit 13 to the portable device 51. The portable device 51 is programmed to receive the wireless signals and to modify the display of its human-machine interface according to the received signals. Thus, in a device and a cycle according to the invention, actuation of the brake levers also allows the display of a human-machine interface to be modified. For example, the right brake lever of the cycle can, through successive presses, highlight one option from among several options in a menu displayed on the screen, and the left brake lever can confirm the highlighted option so as to enter a user selection.

[0170] Other cycle sensors can also be connected to the control unit and the unit of programmed control so that the activation of these sensors allows control of the human-machine interface. For example, the acceleration sensor 32 of a pedal or the torque sensor 33 can be used to validate a highlighted option in an interface menu so that the user can make a choice.

Claims

Claims

1. Control device (10) for an electric cycle, said device (10) comprising: • a main electrical power supply circuit (11) adapted to be connected to an electrical energy storage device (12), • a control unit (13): • mounted on the main power supply circuit (11) so that it can be supplied with electrical energy by the energy storage device (12), • adapted to control an electric motor (14) of the cycle, • a brake relay (28) adapted to be activated by operating a brake lever of the cycle, the control unit (13) and the brake relay (28) being arranged to, the brake relay (28) being activated, cause the interruption of the electrical supply to the motor (14), characterized in that it further comprises: • an engagement sensor (15): • adapted to be activated by actuation of said brake lever, • interposed on the main power supply circuit (11) so as to, when activated, allow the power supply to the control unit (13), • a power supply maintenance circuit (16): • arranged to be able to supply the control unit (13) with electrical energy from the energy storage device (12), • comprising a holding relay (17) controlled by the control unit (13).

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the engagement sensor (15) is a logic sensor.

3. Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that it further comprises an electrical converter (18) adapted to supply a regulated voltage current from an unregulated voltage current, said converter (18) being interposed: - on the main power supply circuit (11), upstream of a power supply input of the control unit (13), - on the holding circuit (16), upstream of the power supply input of the control unit (13).

4. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it further comprises a brake lever (23) adapted to actuate: - the brake relay (28), - the engagement sensor (15), - a cycle brake device.

5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it further comprises an electrical energy storage device (12) adapted to connect the main power supply circuit (11) thereto.

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the control unit (13) is programmed to: - generate a first output signal intended for a human-machine interface, - upon receipt of at least one signal generated upon actuation of the brake lever, generate a second output signal, different from the first output signal, intended for the human-machine interface.

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the brake relay (28) is controlled by the engagement sensor (15).

8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it further comprises a second engagement sensor (29): • adapted to be able to be activated by actuation of a second brake lever of the cycle, interposed on the main power supply circuit (11) so as to, when activated, allow the control unit (13) to be powered.

9. Electric cycle (20) comprising: - at least one braking device, - at least one brake lever (23) adapted to be able to operate the brake device, - at least one electric motor (14), - at least one electrical energy storage device (12), - a control device (10) comprising: - a main power supply circuit (11) connected to the energy storage device (12), - a control unit (13): • mounted on the main power supply circuit (11) so that it can be supplied with electrical energy by the energy storage device (12), • suitable for controlling the electric motor (14), - a brake relay (28) adapted to be activated by actuation of the brake lever (23) of the cycle, the control unit (13) and the brake relay (28) being arranged to, the brake relay (28) being activated, cause the interruption of the electrical supply to the motor (14), characterized in that the control device (10) further comprises: • an engagement sensor (15): adapted to be activated by actuation of said lever brake (23), interposed on the main power supply circuit (11) so as to, when activated, supply the control unit (13) with electricity, a power supply maintenance circuit (16): • arranged to be able to supply the control unit (13) with electrical energy from the energy storage device (12), • comprising a holding relay (17) controlled by the control unit (13).

10. Cycle according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises a single energy storage device (12) for powering the control unit (13) and the electric motor (14).

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