Lighting device and / or turn signal for mounting on the handlebars of a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lighting device and / or turn signal (10) for mounting on the handlebars (20) of a vehicle such as a bicycle. In a preferred embodiment, the device is arranged to allow the battery supplying power to the device's light source to be removed separately. In another embodiment, the device is configured to be mounted on an electric vehicle and is arranged to be connected to a battery that supplies power to propel the vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lighting device and / or a direction indicator for handlebars of vehicles such as bicycles, scooters or motorcycles. The present invention also relates to a device for vehicles having removable parts.

Background Art

[0002] All vehicles need to be equipped with lighting devices to allow the rider to illuminate their path and be seen in the absence of external lighting, such as sunlight or streetlights, especially at night. For all vehicles, it is generally desirable that the vehicle be visible from all directions (360° visibility). It is also necessary to indicate a change of direction, for example by using a direction indicator.

[0003] However, many vehicles with handlebars, such as bicycles, tricycles and scooters, are not fitted with a lighting system by default, and it may be necessary to provide such a system separately. In some cases, lighting is present but the vehicle has no direction indicators.

[0004] The prior art provides lighting systems intended to be mounted on or inside the side ends of handlebars. For example, the commercially available "WingLights 360" lighting falls into this category. Many of these solutions are bulky. They also have drawbacks, in particular the need for battery replacement and a high risk of theft.

[0005] Documents WO2020173959, RO201500041U1, US2004207520A1 and DE102014006837 disclose retractable lighting systems or direction indicators that can be inserted into the handlebar when the light source is not in use. These systems require specific solutions for changing the battery. Furthermore, these solutions do not provide or are incapable of 360° visibility.

[0006] Furthermore, for example, documents KR20170004801A and KR101406282B1 describe removable solutions. Removable components are relatively large and include electronics, light sources (typically LEDs), and batteries. When a user needs to remove such an assembly, there is an increased risk of damaging vulnerable components of the system. Replacing and / or recharging the battery requires disassembling the removable component and removing the battery. These solutions also present the problem of accidental removal and / or theft.

[0007] The present invention aims to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a lighting and / or turn signal system that allows the system's battery to be easily recharged and / or replaced.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to improve illumination and / or provide 360° visibility, particularly in the absence of external lighting. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide improved visibility independently of the lighting system and / or the turn signal system.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system based on a general structural design that offers lighting options, such as being able to have only turn signals, only front / rear lighting, or both. This makes it possible to provide users with a variety of products related to lighting or turn signals based on a limited number of different components. [Overview of the project]

[0011] According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to a lighting device and / or a turn signal device to be mounted on the handlebars of a vehicle such as a bicycle, the device comprising: an external device positioned to be fixed to the handlebars as an extension of one of its two side ends, the external device including a support on which one or more light sources are arranged; and a connecting device connected to the external device, configured to house an electrical energy source and / or to connect the external device to an electrical energy source, the connecting device positioned at least partially within the tubular portion of the handlebars.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the support includes a central opening that provides a passage for connecting a connecting device to an opening to the outside of the lighting device and / or turn signal.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention is arranged to allow removal and / or insertion of the battery and / or assembly containing the battery for recharging or replacement of the battery. Preferably, when the battery and / or assembly containing it is removed from the apparatus, one or more light sources remain connected to the lighting device and / or turn signals. Preferably, one or more light sources and / or electronic equipment for controlling one or more light sources are not part of the assembly and / or removable components and / or are not arranged to be removed from the apparatus of the present invention.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the support includes an inner surface facing the passage and an outer surface facing outward, and one or more light sources are arranged on the outer surface.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the support includes a printed circuit board (PCB), preferably a flexible and / or pliable PCB.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention includes annular diffusers and / or light guides arranged to guide light emitted by one or more light sources toward one or more annular outer surfaces and / or externally visible surfaces.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention includes a battery and / or an assembly containing the battery, which is arranged to be inserted into and / or removed separately from the apparatus through an opening.

[0018] In one embodiment, the assembly includes (i) a hollow longitudinal housing for housing a battery, and (ii) an electrical connector arranged to enable an electrical connection between the battery and / or the assembly and one or more light sources.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the assembly can be separated from the device to recharge or replace the battery, and the assembly does not have a light source that functions as illumination and / or a turn signal for the vehicle and / or to improve visibility for the rider while riding.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the assembly has an external shape arranged to allow the assembly to be inserted into a device and / or a connecting device in a single orientation or in a limited number of orientations, for example, one to three orientations, preferably one to two orientations.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the device includes a closing mechanism and / or locking mechanism (81, 86, 87) for closing the opening, the mechanism being arranged to be opened (i) manually, (ii) with a tool, and / or (iii) with a coin, so that a user can remove the battery and / or the assembly containing the battery from the device through the opening (80).

[0022] In one embodiment, the mechanism includes a member (81) positioned to be operated by the user as described above for removing the battery / assembly. In one embodiment, the member 81 forms part of the assembly and / or is integral with the assembly.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the assembly includes a cover comprising a locking member, wherein the cover and / or the locking member is arranged to be at least partially rotatable relative to the housing and / or relative to the tube of the assembly, and the housing and / or the tube accommodates a battery. Preferably, rotation of the locking member relative to the housing / tube can lock and / or unlock the assembly to allow insertion and / or removal of the assembly relative to the device of the present invention.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle is an electric vehicle provided with a battery for propelling the vehicle, and the device includes an electrical connection portion arranged to connect the device to the battery for vehicle propulsion.

[0025] Other aspects and preferred embodiments of the present invention are defined in the dependent claims and the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the non-limiting description of several preferred embodiments. This description is given by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings.

[0027] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bicycle handlebar to which the device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is attached. [Figure 1B] FIG. 3 is a side view of the bicycle handlebar to which the device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is attached. [Figure 1C] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bicycle handlebar to which the device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is attached. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the device shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C. [Figure 2B] FIG. 3 is a side view of the device shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C. [Figure 2C] FIG. 4 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the device shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the device shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C. [Figure 4] Figures 2A-3 are perspective views of the electronic components of the device shown. [Figure 5] Figures 2A-3 are perspective views of the apparatus, with the battery assembly removed from the apparatus of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7A] This is a perspective view of the apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7B] This is a side view of the apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7C] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figures 7A to 7C are exploded views of the apparatus shown. [Figure 9] Figures 7A to 78 show longitudinal cross-sectional views of a bicycle handlebar to which the device according to the embodiment shown is attached. [Figure 10A] This is a perspective view of the apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10B] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10C] This is a schematic exploded view of the apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10D] Figures 10A to 10C show exploded views of the battery in the device shown. [Figure 10E] Figures 10A to 10C are perspective views of the electronic components of the device shown. [Figure 10F] Figures 10A to 10C are side views of the electronic components of the device shown. [Figure 10G] Figures 10A to 10C are detailed exploded views of the apparatus shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The apparatus shown in the figure represents a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figures 1A–1C show the right end of a bicycle handlebar 20 to which a grip 21, designed to be held in the rider's right hand when riding the bicycle, is attached. In these figures, the sleeve includes a pair of annular clamps 22 for securing the sleeve to the handlebar.

[0030] The handlebar 20 is equipped with a lighting and / or turn signal device 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] For the purposes of this invention, "lighting" particularly includes the headlights and / or taillights of a vehicle. Headlights are generally bright lights with directionality, e.g., a beam (e.g., white or yellow), and serve to illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle in the direction of forward travel. Taillights are generally red and serve to improve visibility rather than to illuminate the road. Taillights may also include and / or diffuse light.

[0032] The lighting of the present invention includes, for example, a bicycle lamp.

[0033] Turn signals are not intended for road lighting and, in principle, may include diffused light. Regarding color, turn signals preferably include orange and / or red light. Turn signals preferably include turn indicator lights and / or flashing lights. Turn signals include, for example, flashing bicycle lights.

[0034] Figures 1A and 1B show only the outer portion (external device 50) attached as an extension to the right side end of the handlebar.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the external device 50 has a cylindrical shape with a diameter substantially corresponding to the diameter of the sleeve 21, such that the device is integrated with the sleeve-device assembly in a harmonious and / or inconspicuous manner and forms an end cap at the handlebar end.

[0036] The external device includes at least one actuation member 54 arranged to allow the lidar to operate the device 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the member 54 is realized as a single button, but the present invention also envisions other types of actuation members, such as sliders, levers, and pull tabs. The present invention also envisions providing a plurality of actuation members, which may be selected independently of the actuation members described above.

[0037] As will be further explained below, the present invention envisions one or more operating members that can be activated by a lidar. Providing a single operating member to activate a specific operating member among the multiple operating members is considered advantageous because it is user-friendly. The selection of various lighting and / or directional operation can be made by the manner in which the operating member is activated.

[0038] Figures 1C, 2A-2C, 3, 5, and 6 also show the connection device 30 connected to the external device 50. In Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, 3, 5, and 6, the handlebar is omitted, and the longitudinal cross-section shown in Figure 1C shows the connection device 30 inside the handlebar 20.

[0039] The connecting device 30 includes a tubular portion or tube 31 that is firmly, preferably permanently, connected to the external device 50, particularly to the housing portion or housing 55 of the external device. The connection can be made, for example, by adhesive bonding, welding, screwing, riveting, and snap fitting. The present invention also envisions that the tube 31 and housing 55 are formed as a single unit.

[0040] The connecting device 30 further includes a mounting assembly 90 having the function of being able to firmly mount the device 10 inside the handlebar, particularly in the hollow portion of the handlebar. In the prior art, particularly in the field of bicycle machinery, there are different possibilities for fastening elements inside tubes and / or hollow portions. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting assembly includes a plug 91 firmly fixed to the first end of the tube 31, the first end being oriented in the stem direction toward the inside of the handlebar. The plug may be screwed to the tube, glued, or otherwise secured. The plug has a hole through which the threaded portion of a cylindrical screw 92 can pass, while the head of the screw is held in contact with the edge of the plug. The screw 92 passes through a tubular elastic member 93 and is secured to the threaded hole of a nut 94. When the device 10 is positioned in the desired location within the handlebar 20, the screw 92 can be rotated using a washer or screwdriver having a shaft long enough to reach the head of the screw 92 through the opening 80 of the device of the present invention, for example, as shown in Figure 1C. The parts 91-94 are positioned so that when the screw 92 is tightened, the nut 94 is pulled toward the plug, and thus compresses the elastic member 93 fitted to the screw. The part 93 may be made of, for example, an elastomer, and as described above, its compression increases its thickness until it contacts the inner wall of the hollow portion of the handlebar. The compression of part 93 applies pressure to the inner wall, firmly securing the device of the present invention within the hollow portion 23 of the handlebar.

[0041] The present invention is not limited to a specific fastening method and envisions other types of connectors for securing the connecting device 30 within a handlebar to fix the device of the present invention. For example, instead of an elastomer component, two rigid components, for example, metal, can be used, which are in contact with each other and have contact surfaces inclined with respect to the screw axis. When the screw is tightened, the two components are displaced relative to each other, and this displacement allows pressure and / or support force to be generated against the inner wall of the handlebar, thereby enabling fastening. This solution is known, for example, for fastening a stem to the head tube of a bicycle frame.

[0042] An apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a battery 41 or an assembly or unit 40 containing a battery (Figure 3). The battery and / or assembly are arranged to be located within the apparatus of the present invention, particularly within the connection device 30. As shown in Figure 1C, the assembly 40 containing the battery is located within the tube 31 of the connection device.

[0043] The external device 50 preferably includes an opening 80 that allows for the insertion and / or removal of the assembly 40 (and / or battery 41). The opening 80 is clearly shown in Figure 5. In one embodiment, the opening 80 is an external lateral opening, preferably positioned laterally / transversely to the bicycle, preferably positioned in a substantially vertical plane, and / or substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the vehicle. In this specification, the term “substantially” means, in the case of a directional indicator, that can cover a deviation of up to 45°, preferably up to 25°, and more preferably up to 10° from the stated direction and / or angle.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3, the components 52-60 of the external device 50 include a central opening or passage (components 55-56, 58-60), or are arranged on or within the walls of the housing 55 (components 52-54), thereby not obstructing the central portion of the external device 50 and freely securing and / or forming a passage 70 that connects the inside of the connecting device 30 to the outside of the device 10 of the present invention.

[0045] In one embodiment, the passage is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the handlebar.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, the housing 55 is located at the bottom of the housing and includes a circular hole 75 that communicates with the inside of the tube 31. The operating member 54 and the front and rear windows 52, 53 are located within the wall 76 of the housing. The external device further includes a tubular member 56, a support 60, and two annular members 58, 59, all of which are annular, tubular, and / or have openings or recesses, thereby forming a passage 70 for inserting and removing the battery 41 and / or the assembly containing the battery.

[0047] Figure 4 shows the support 60 in more detail. The support 60 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) having an overall tubular appearance, but with a portion 73 being flat. The PCB is preferably flexible and / or pliable. The PCB includes an inner surface 71 facing the passage 70 and an outer surface 72. Light sources, in particular LEDs 61-65 and 66, 67, are arranged on the outer surface. In the illustrated embodiment, several types of LEDs are arranged on the support 60. For example, a series of several LEDs 61-65 are arranged such that each LED is spaced apart from one another along the perimeter of the outer surface.

[0048] In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus 10 includes rows and / or arrays of LEDs spaced apart from one another along a curve and / or around the perimeter or a large part of the perimeter of a support structure. The support structure is, for example, annular, circular, tubular and / or cylindrical, or a structure having a central opening.

[0049] The distance between an LED and two adjacent LEDs around it is either approximately the same, or, if not, the spacing always includes the minimum distance between LEDs, for example, at least 1 centimeter. Note that no LEDs are located in the lower part 73 of the printed circuit board (PCB), and this part 73 is positioned facing the ground when the device 10 is connected to the handlebars.

[0050] LED66 is positioned on the support 60 so that it is positioned forward when the device 10 is connected to the handlebars. LED66 performs a conventional lighting function. LED67 functions as a rear light source and is therefore positioned towards the rear.

[0051] In contrast, LEDs 61-65 function as turn signals and / or serve to improve rider visibility at night. Each of these LEDs 61-65 may be smaller than the illumination LED 66 and / or consume less energy. LEDs 61-65 operate together and / or are turned on and / or off simultaneously, and preferably operate independently of LEDs 66, 67.

[0052] The support 60 further includes other electronic components necessary for controlling the electronic functions, such as a microprocessor 69.

[0053] The support 60 further includes a pair of electrical connectors 78 intended to make electrical contact with the electrical contacts 46 of the assembly 40, which includes the battery 41.

[0054] The microprocessor and other electronic components are preferably located on the outer surface 72, while the connector 78 is preferably located on the inner surface 71 of the PCB, facing the passage 70, so that the support 60 can make electrical contact with the battery (assembly 40) when it is positioned correctly within the passage 70 of the device 10.

[0055] The tubular member 56 shown in Figure 3 is a rigid support for the flexible printed circuit board (PCB) 68 of the support 60. The printed circuit board (PCB) is preferably attached to the member 56.

[0056] The component 56 includes a collar 79 that extends substantially along its perimeter, while the printed circuit board (PCB) 68 / support 60 includes a slot 77 along a portion of its perimeter, the slot 77 being fitted to receive the collar. When the printed circuit board (PCB) is attached to the component 56, it is locked longitudinally by the collar located within the slot 77. Due to its flexibility, the printed circuit board (PCB) can be twisted to a certain extent without being damaged, thereby allowing it to be positioned in place on the rigid component 56.

[0057] Although not clearly shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 2C due to the relatively thinness of the printed circuit board (PCB), the LED 66 is shown. The wall of component 56 has an opening for passing electrical connectors 78 through, which are exposed within the passage 70 into which the assembly 40 is inserted. The tubular portion 56 partially forms the inner wall of the external device, i.e., the wall of the passage 70 that penetrates the device 50.

[0058] The external device further includes two windows 52, 53 positioned in the wall 76 of the housing 55, which are intended to transmit light emitted by the LEDs, particularly the light from the front and rear lights. The forward-facing window 52 is preferably completely transparent, allowing white light emitted by the LED 66 to pass through so as to function as illumination in the forward direction of travel of the vehicle equipped with the device. The rear-facing window 53 may be colored red to function as a rear light for the vehicle. In the drawings, an LED 67, which functions as a rear light source, is also positioned on a printed circuit board (PCB), for example, in an appropriate location on the outer surface 72. Alternatively, the windows could be completely transparent and a red LED could be used, or the rear light / LED could be omitted entirely, i.e., a single light source could be used for both the front and rear.

[0059] In one embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention includes a diffuser and / or light guide 58 arranged to guide light emitted by one or more light sources 61-66 toward one or more external annular surfaces 82, 83. Preferably, the diffuser and / or light guide is annular or includes an annular component.

[0060] The component 58 shown in Figure 3 is preferably formed, coated, and / or manufactured from a translucent and / or colored material. In a preferred embodiment, the material is red, pink, reddish, yellow, or orange. Preferably, the component 58 is made of and / or manufactured from an orange material so as to emit orange light, preferably diffuse light, when the light source is turned on.

[0061] As can be seen from Figures 2C, 3, and 4, LEDs 61-65 are configured to direct the light they emit toward component 58. In other words, inside the device 50, component 58 is exposed to the light emitted by LEDs 61-65. This light is then directed outwards through component 58. As shown in Figures 1A, 2C, and 3, component 58 includes externally visible surfaces 82, 83 and / or is exposed to the outside from the device 10 when mounted inside the handlebars.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the component 58 is visible from outside the apparatus 10 and includes one or more surfaces 82, 83 which may be illuminated by one or more light sources located in the apparatus.

[0063] In one embodiment, the component 58 includes at least one annular surface which is capable of emitting light and is visible from the outside and / or exposed to the outside.

[0064] In one embodiment, the component 58 includes at least two surfaces that are visible from the outside and / or can emit light exposed to the outside. In a preferred embodiment, the component 58 includes at least two annular surfaces 82, 83.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the exposed annular surfaces 82, 83 are different, for example, having different shapes and / or being positioned in different directions.

[0066] For example, surface 82 extends across the outer surface of the cylinder. Surface 82 is a curved annular surface. Surface 82 is positioned to emit light in a direction normal (perpendicular) to the cylindrical outer surface. When the device 10 is mounted on the handlebars, the light emitted from surface 82 improves the rider's visibility from the front and rear of the vehicle, and, to a lesser extent, also improves visibility from above and / or below the vehicle.

[0067] Surface 83 is a substantially flat and / or planar annular surface. By being mounted on the lateral side of the vehicle, it improves rider visibility from the right side of the vehicle (or from the left side if the device is mounted on the left side of the handlebars).

[0068] Surfaces 82 and 83 are preferably positioned on the right side of the handlebars, as shown in Figures 1A to 1C, to provide at least 180° of visibility to the device. This 180° of visibility means that the right hemisphere (or semicircle parallel to the ground) of the rider when riding a bicycle equipped with the device is illuminated, and a person within this area can see the light emitted by the device.

[0069] The second device, mounted on the left side of the handlebars, similarly provides 180° visibility, covering the left hemisphere (or semicircle parallel to the ground) of the rider. Together, the two devices provide 360° coverage around the rider (left and right), ensuring the rider is visible from all directions.

[0070] The external device 50 according to this embodiment further includes a protective ring 59 that is positioned on the diffuser and / or light guide 58, covers it, and forms a side / outside annular rim of the device of the present invention.

[0071] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 16, the apparatus of the present invention preferably includes a battery 41 or a battery assembly 40.

[0072] The batteries are preferably arranged to be separately removable, i.e., there is no need to disassemble external devices including light sources and / or electronic equipment. The electronic equipment includes, in particular, printed circuit boards (PCBs) and the electrical components of control buttons.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, assembly 40 functions as a battery dedicated to the device, a custom battery, and / or a separate battery. It is assembly 40 that is removed as a unit from the device of the present invention. The present invention also assumes that the battery 41 does not have to be incorporated into assembly 40, and that the battery 41 can be removed separately, as described above with respect to assembly 40.

[0074] The assembly 40 includes a hollow section or tube 42 in which an elongated battery 41 is housed. The cross-section of the tube 42 is not perfectly circular. The tube 42 forming the wall includes a flat section 45 (Figure 5) extending along the length of the tube, which serves to determine the placement for inserting the assembly 40 into the apparatus of the present invention.

[0075] The tube 42 is longitudinal, like the assembly 40, and therefore includes two opposing ends. The first end is positioned toward the center of the handlebar (towards the stem) when the assembly is placed within the handlebar, and the second end is positioned toward the corresponding outer side end of the handlebar, i.e., to the right or left, determined by the direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0076] Assembly 40 includes a component 43 that supports a connector used to electrically connect the battery of assembly 40 to an electrical connector 78 located in the passage 70 of an external device. In the illustrated embodiment, component 43 is located on the second end side of the tube 42 (right side in Figure 2C) and is connected by a cable to the electrical contacts of the battery 41, the cable (not shown in the drawing) located inside the tube 42. Component 43 is in contact with electrical contacts 46 that are exposed on the external surface of assembly 40 (Figure 5).

[0077] The assembly includes a cover, which in the illustrated embodiment is formed by a disc 81, a screw 85 and a ring 84, forming the closure and / or end of the assembly 40 toward the second end. The connector 43 is housed at the second end of the tube 42. The external electrical contacts 46 are preferably located within the tube 42, particularly within the wall of the tube, to allow contact between the connector of the component 43 housed in the assembly 40 and the connector 78 in the external device 50 and / or passage 70. A washer 44 is inserted into the tube 42 toward the second end, defining a housing for the component 43 that mounts the connector 43 (Figure 2C), and the tube is closed at its end.

[0078] The ring 84 is screwed onto the second end of the tube 42 by a screw 85, and the disc 81 is positioned on the ring and functions as a protective and / or closing part for the ring 84 and / or the second end of the assembly 40. The disc 81 also functions, for example, together with the ring 84, as a user-operable member for pushing out the assembly 40 or positioning it in the apparatus. In the assembly 40, the disc 81 is firmly connected to the ring 84, for example, by adhesive or riveting.

[0079] The ring 84 further includes lugs and / or protrusions 86 that function as locks. External devices, in particular the annular component 58, include complementary notches 87 and inner rims and serve as entry points for the assembly 40, especially when the rotational position of the ring 84 is such that the lugs align with the notches. The annular inner rim acts as a stopper and plays a role in holding the assembly 40 in place as the ring 84 rotates due to the rotation of the disk 81 when the assembly 40 is inserted through the opening 80.

[0080] The compression spring 88 is housed within the tube 31 toward the first end (inner end) of the connector 30 and biases the assembly 40 toward the opening 80, i.e., outward, when the assembly is placed in the connector 30.

[0081] Due to the schematic nature of the drawings, Figure 2C does not show the spring 88 supporting the assembly 40, nor does it show that the tube 42 closes toward the first end; however, those skilled in the art will understand the operating principle.

[0082] When the assembly 40 is placed inside the device 10, the user can press the disc 81 that appears in the opening 80 (Figures 1A, 2A, and 6) with their thumb or other finger, and rotate the assembly 40 by turning their finger. When the lug 86 of the ring is aligned with the notch 87 of the external device, the assembly 40 is pushed out by the action of the compression spring 88. The user can then remove the assembly 40 from the device 10 of the present invention, for example, to replace or recharge the battery, or when the user parks the bicycle and does not want to leave the battery inside the device.

[0083] In Figure 5, the assembly 40 is separated from the device 10. To insert the assembly 40 into the device, it is necessary to find the precise rotational position of the assembly 40, particularly the tube 42, so that the flat portion 45 of the tube 42 aligns with the corresponding and / or complementary flat portions provided within the passage 70, as described, for example, with respect to parts 60 and 56. Thus, the geometric configuration of one or more parts that determine at least a portion of the inner wall of the passage determines the orientation that allows the assembly 40 to be inserted into the device 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembly 40 can only be inserted if the flat portion 45 is positioned downwards. As shown in Figure 5, the left side shows the assembly 40 in a rotational position that does not allow insertion through the passage 70. The arrow indicates that the assembly is rotated 180° and positioned in front of the opening 80. The right-hand assembly 40, positioned as shown, can be inserted through the external device.

[0084] The ring 84 with lugs 86 is freely rotatable relative to the tube 42. However, its rotation is restricted by the disk 81. When the device is inserted into its housing within the tube 31 of the connecting device 30, the position of the tube 42 remains unchanged, but the ring 84 and disk 81 can still rotate freely. The user can rotate the disk 81 until the lugs of the ring are aligned with the notches 87. The user can then push the assembly 40 further into its housing against the force of the compression spring 88. Finally, the user can rotate the disk 81 to lock the assembly 40 into its housing.

[0085] Once inserted, the assembly 40 remains stably housed within the apparatus 10 by and / or despite the compression spring 88, which biases the assembly in the extrusion direction.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the structural design of the assembly makes reverse insertion (disk 81 and / or ring 84 being inserted first) impossible because at least one portion that forms or is part of the passage 70 allows the lug 86 to be inserted only through the notch 87 and not further.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the profile of the tube 42 having a flat outer surface 45 allows insertion of the assembly 40 into the passage only in the intended direction, thereby enabling the battery contacts to make electrical contact with the electrical connector 78 in the passage 70.

[0088] The present invention is not limited to any particular complementary shape for guiding and / or forcing the correct insertion of the battery / assembly 40 into the device. For example, the profile of the tube 42 may be a polygon having only one axis of symmetry or no axis of symmetry at all, and the passage 70 may be arranged complementaryly. The present invention assumes any other means and / or geometric configuration of the assembly and its housing in the device, and, if necessary, any other means and / or geometric configuration of locking components, here the lugs (projections) 86 and notches 87, that can perform this function.

[0089] Assembly 40 can be designed as a non-removable unit and / or as a unit not intended to be disassembled by the user. In this case, as described above, assembly 40 functions as a custom battery itself. This custom battery may or may not be rechargeable, depending on whether the battery 41 in tube 42 is a secondary battery.

[0090] In another embodiment, the assembly 40 is arranged to be disassembled by the user and / or the battery 41 is separated from the assembly 40. In this case as well, the battery 41 may be a rechargeable battery or a primary battery, at the user's discretion. If the assembly 40 is arranged to be disassembled by the user, the battery 41 is preferably a standard battery available at a retail store.

[0091] An advantage of the present invention, as embodied in Figures 1A to 6, is that the battery (or assembly 40) can be removed, disassembled, and / or separated from the device 10 without removing other components, particularly those related to electronic equipment and / or light sources. This allows for a more compact removable component and reduces the risk of damage to electronic components. Furthermore, since the device will not operate without assembly 40, the risk of theft is also reduced.

[0092] In this invention, it is assumed that the device according to the embodiment may be configured to operate only as a turn signal, or only as a front lighting device / rear light, or to provide both functions.

[0093] The presence of electronic equipment and / or LEDs 61-66 in the device is configured according to these functions. For example, in a configuration without front and / or rear lights, LEDs 66 and 67 installed at the front and rear may not be present (Figures 2C, 3, and 8). An embodiment corresponding to such a device 100 is shown in Figure 6. The flashing function (turn signal) is preferably provided by other light sources, particularly LEDs 61-65, whose light is transmitted through a diffuser and / or light guide 58 to cover a 180° visibility angle on one side, and the other 180° is provided by a device mounted on the opposite side of the handlebars.

[0094] The apparatus 100 in the second embodiment shown in Figure 6 differs externally from apparatus 10 in that it does not have a front window 52 and a rear window 53 intended to allow light to pass through. Alternatively, the same housing 55 as in apparatus 10 can be used, but the windows 52 and 53 are replaced with opaque plates.

[0095] Figures 7A to 9 show the device 200 according to the third embodiment. The device 200 is intended for electric vehicles and / or vehicles equipped with a built-in battery, preferably a battery for propulsion. In one embodiment, the vehicle is a bicycle, tricycle, cargo bike, kick scooter, motorcycle, or electric scooter. Therefore, the light source of the device 200, i.e., the illumination LEDs and / or turn signal LEDs, is powered by the vehicle's battery.

[0096] Therefore, the device 200 does not necessarily need to include a tube for housing a battery. The device connection device 30' shown in the figure includes a base 31' with internal wires for connecting the electronics of the device 200 to a cable 43', which is connected to the vehicle's battery. The base 31' functions both for mounting the device 200 to the end of the handlebar and as a support for the housing 55' of the external device 50'. The device 200 can be firmly attached to the handlebar using a mounting assembly similar to the device mounting assembly 90 of the previously described embodiment. In the embodiment shown in the figure, no such assembly exists, and the device is preferably secured using a ring attached to the handlebar, such as the ring 22 in Figure 1A. Other fastening means are also possible, and the present invention is not limited to any particular fastening means.

[0097] To connect the connecting device 30' to the external device 50', a snap-fit ​​connector is provided, consisting of a male portion 32' on the device 30' and a ring forming a female portion 33' on the external device (Figure 8). The present invention assumes a rigid and / or permanent connection, or another type of removable connection, between the connecting device 30' and the external device.

[0098] As shown in Figures 7C and 8, some internal components of the external device 50' are identical to those described above for embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 6, particularly components 56, 58 and 59, and component 60', which includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with electronics and LEDs, may be adapted to be electrically connected to the cable 43', and therefore the electrical connector 78 (Figure 4) may be absent or replaced. The opening 80' formed by the annular member 58 is preferably covered by a cover and / or disk 81', which may constitute permanent closure of the opening 80' or may be a separate disk. The disk 81' may be designed as a removable cover for the external device, for example, for maintenance and / or repair of the electronics. Finally, the disk 81' may be removable, for example, to allow access to the mounting assembly using tools, as described above with respect to the mounting assembly 90.

[0099] Similar to the apparatus of the embodiment described above, various modifications can be realized. One modification may include headlights, taillights, and turn signals, while another modification may include only turn signals. As described above, these functions can be realized by different LEDs.

[0100] To facilitate control of the device's light source, a single actuator 54 is preferably provided. This actuator is preferably easily accessible by a finger, such as a thumb, or by the outside of the hand while the device is in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator is preferably positioned upward and / or on top of the external devices 50, 50', and preferably on an upward-facing portion of the housing 55, 55'.

[0101] The operating member may also be positioned to face the rider more directly and / or towards the rider, particularly towards the rider's face while riding.

[0102] To enable the activation of several different functions using a single control element, such as a button, the electronics of the device are preferably configured to distinguish and / or recognize different inputs made by a user operating the control element 54. For example, pressing the button for more than one second may switch the headlights and / or taillights on and off, and pressing the same control element for a short time may cause the turn signals to start flashing and then stop flashing.

[0103] A lighting device and / or turn signal 300 according to the fourth embodiment is shown in Figures 10A to 10G. This device 300 differs from the first embodiment shown in Figures 1A to 6 mainly in the following features: The external device 150 is provided with a separate housing and / or attachment 255, which is connected to the main housing 155 of the external device, here to the underside of the main housing, although the separate housing may alternatively be connected to the front of the main housing. This separate housing has front illumination or a conventional light source. Next, the device 300 includes a separate cover 181 instead of the caps 81, 85, 84 arranged with the battery assembly 40. Another difference is that the support 160 that mounts the LEDs and / or optionally other electronic components is composed of multiple parts, here three or four members, depending on whether or not the lighting LEDs 166 in the separate housing are counted. In the first embodiment, the support 60 was manufactured as a single piece. The light guide 158 of the third embodiment provides only a single annular surface (rather than two) for emitting diffused light, primarily for the purpose of improving the visibility of the lidar. Finally, the device of this fourth embodiment is more complex overall in that it includes more parts.

[0104] Generally, the reference numbers of structural elements in the fourth embodiment are increased by 100 compared to the corresponding or similar structural elements in the first embodiment. For example, external devices in the fourth embodiment are numbered 150, while external devices in the first embodiment are numbered 50.

[0105] As shown in Figure 10A, the apparatus of the fourth embodiment includes an internal device 130 which includes a mounting assembly 190 having the same fastening function in the hollow portion of the handlebar described in the first embodiment, and an external device which is connected to the internal device. The external device also includes an operating member 154, a cover 181, a housing 155, an outer protective ring 159, two rear windows 153.1 and 153.2 (Figure 10G), a front window 152.1 of the main housing 155, and a front window 152.2 located in the separate housing 255 described above.

[0106] Figure 10B shows the internal components and structure of the device 300, and these components are also shown in Figure 10G.

[0107] Figure 10C separately shows the main components of the device 300, namely the external device 150 having a separate extension 255 fixed to the external device housing 155 by screws 174.1, the battery assembly 140, the cover 181, and the internal device 130. The top surface of the separate housing 255 has at least one hole or passage that allows the screws 174.1 to pass through and also allows electrical connections to pass through for connecting one or more LEDs of the separate housing to a support 160 containing electronic equipment. An LED indicator 251 is also attached to the external device. This indicator allows the user to see which function is in use, i.e., which lamp of the device is active.

[0108] As shown in this figure, the cover 181 has male threads and can be fixed to the external device 150 by a threaded hole formed in a passage 170 that leads to an external opening 180 of the external device. As shown in Figure 10G, this threaded hole is located in a tubular portion 156. In the case of device 300, the cover can be removed, preferably manually, by loosening a screw. For this purpose, a rib 189 is provided on the cover 181, which is gripped by the user between the thumb and index finger, thereby enabling manual loosening and tightening of the screw, respectively, and opening and closing the opening 180 to allow access to the passage 170.

[0109] Figure 10D shows in more detail the elements of the assembly 140 that form the removable battery 140 of the device 300. The assembly includes a battery body 141, a tube 142 for housing the battery, a cap 148, a connector 147 (here a USB connector) for allowing the battery to be recharged, and a small connecting plate 143 with electrical contacts for connecting the assembly 140 to the electronic equipment of the support 160.

[0110] Figures 10E and 10F show a support 160 on which at least some of the light sources are arranged. In this embodiment, the support 160 is formed as several parts, namely a main part 168.1 having an overall tubular shape, a lower plate 168.2 with electrical contacts, and an annular part 168.3 that supports a light source 162 positioned laterally with respect to the direction in which the user is riding in the vehicle (and axially with respect to the axis of the handlebars). A separate part 168.4 is located in a separate housing 255 and supports a front light source 166. Parts 168.1 to 168.4 are electrically connected. Multiple light sources, preferably LEDs, are arranged on the support 168. As in the device 10 of the first embodiment, the support 160 and / or separate parts 168.1 to 168.4 are the support and / or printed circuit board (PCB).

[0111] In the illustrated embodiment, one group of LEDs 161 is arranged on the front side of the support 168.1, and two groups of LEDs 163 are arranged on the rear side (only one group of 163 is shown in Figure 10E). These LED groups preferably emit light through the front window 152.1 and the rear windows 153.1 and 153.2, respectively. Generally, diffuse light is emitted through the rear windows 153.1 and 153.2. Red light is preferably emitted through the rear window 153.2, allowing this window to function as a conventional rear light, and white / yellow light is preferably emitted through the rear window 153.1, allowing it to function as a turn signal. A switch 149 is also located on the support portion 168.1, which is positioned to detect the operation of a button 154, thereby allowing the electronic device to illuminate the components in response to the user's operation of the button, for example, as described above.

[0112] The front window 152.2 has a front surface that is slightly inclined laterally to direct a beam of light inclined toward the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. As described above, the separate housing 255 emits "illumination" light, i.e., relatively strong non-diffuse light. Each free end of the handlebars of the vehicle according to the present invention is provided with a device 300 so that the light from the two devices is directed to converge on a point and / or area at a specific distance in front of the vehicle. This improves illumination of the road area directly in front of the vehicle.

[0113] Figure 10G shows the components of the device 300 in detail. Several seals and / or sealing rings 157 are present to make the device watertight and to securely assemble the components.

[0114] Similar to the apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment, the external apparatus 150 in this case includes an essentially tubular portion 156 whose inner wall or surface forms the inner wall of the passage 170. Support portions 168.1 to 168.4 are arranged on and / or around the portion 156. Thus, the electronics of the apparatus 300 are located in the space between the external housing 155 and the tubular portion 156, ensuring the passage 170 for insertion and removal of the battery assembly 140.

[0115] In one embodiment, the support consists of one or more members 60, 160, 168.1-168.4 arranged around the passages 70, 170 and / or adjacent to the inner walls of the external device housings 55, 155, so as not to obstruct the central portion of the external device in which the passages are located.

[0116] In one embodiment, the external devices 50, 150 include housings 55, 155 that form at least a portion of the outer wall and / or boundary of the external devices, and substantially tubular portions 56, 156 that form an inner wall that at least partially defines the dimensions of the passages 70, 170, and the supports 60, 160 are preferably positioned in the space between the housing and the tubular portions. The present invention is not limited to any particular shape and / or geometric configuration of the passage 170.

[0117] The diffuser 158, which emits diffused light onto the annular surface 183 (Figure 10A), has already been described. In the case of the apparatus 300, the protective ring 159 is attached to the housing 155 by screws 174.2, and thus the ring 159 also functions as an assembly ring, which can secure the diffuser 158, the ring 168.3 and the tubular portion to and / or inside the housing 155.

[0118] Similar to the case of device 10, the spring 188 of device 300 allows the battery assembly 140 to be biased outward through the opening 180. The fastening device 190 includes a longitudinal screw 192 whose head is housed by a ring 191 in the tube 131 of the inner device 130. The screw 192, together with parts 193.1 and 193.2 and a nut 194, secures the inner device 130 within the hollow of the handlebar by sliding between rigid parts 193.1 and 193.2, as described below.

[0119] Those skilled in the art will have no particular difficulty applying the contents of this disclosure to their own needs without departing from the scope of the present invention, and especially implementing lighting devices and / or turn signals to be mounted on vehicles. For example, those skilled in the art can apply this disclosure to any vehicle that uses handlebars or a similar structure to determine the direction of travel. Preferred vehicles within the scope of the present invention are bicycles, kick scooters, tricycles, cargo bikes, motorcycles and / or scooters. These vehicles may or may not be electric.

Claims

1. A lighting and / or turn signal device (10, 300) mounted on the handlebar (20) of a vehicle such as a bicycle or kick scooter, An external device (50) is positioned to be fixed to the handlebar on an extended portion of one of the two side ends of the handlebar, and the external device (50) includes a support (60) on which one or more light sources (61-66) are arranged, Includes a connecting device (30, 30') which is connected to the external device (50), houses a power supply (41), and / or is arranged to connect the external device to the power supply, and is positioned at least partially within the tubular portion (23) of the handlebar, The lighting and / or turn signal device (10, 300) is characterized in that the support (60) is arranged within the external device such that it leaves a passage (70) for connecting the connecting device (30) to an opening (80) to the outside of the lighting device and / or turn signal (10).

2. The passage is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the handlebar, particularly at the side end and / or free end of the handlebar, and preferably the device is housed at the end, according to claim 1 (10, 300).

3. The apparatus (10, 300) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the opening (80) is an external side opening, preferably located on a plane substantially perpendicular and / or substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the vehicle.

4. The apparatus (10, 300) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support (60, 160) is formed from one or more members arranged around the passage (70) and / or in close proximity to the inner wall of the housing (55, 155) of the external device, so as not to obstruct the central portion of the external device in which the passage (70) is located.

5. The external device comprises a housing (55, 155) forming at least a portion of the outer wall and / or boundary of the external device, and a generally tubular member (56, 156) forming an inner wall that at least partially defines the dimensions of the passage (7), wherein the support (60, 160) is preferably located in the space between the housing and the tubular member, the device (10, 300) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The support (60) includes an inner surface (71) facing the passage (70) and an outer surface (72) facing outwards, and the one or more light sources (61-66) are arranged on the outer surface, the apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The support (60) comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) (68), preferably a flexible and / or pliable PCB, in the apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising an annular diffuser and / or light guide (58) arranged to guide light emitted from, for example, light source 62, 63, among one or more light sources (61 to 66), toward one or more external annular surfaces (82).

9. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a battery (41) and / or an assembly (40) including the battery, wherein the battery and / or the assembly are arranged to be inserted into and / or removed separately from the apparatus through the opening (80).

10. The aforementioned assembly is A hollow longitudinal housing (42) that houses the battery (41), The apparatus (10) according to claim 9, comprising the battery and / or the assembly and an electrical connector (43, 46) arranged to enable an electrical connection between the one or more light sources (61-66).

11. The apparatus (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the assembly (40) is separable from the apparatus (10) to recharge or replace the battery, and the assembly does not have a light source that functions as illumination of the vehicle and / or a turn signal.

12. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the assembly (40) has an external shape arranged to allow the assembly to be inserted into the apparatus (10) and / or the connecting device (30) in only one orientation.

13. The apparatus (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a closing mechanism and / or locking mechanism (81, 86, 87) for closing the opening (80), wherein the mechanism is arranged to be opened manually or with a tool or coin so that a user can remove the battery (41) and / or the assembly (40) containing the battery from the apparatus (10) through the opening (80).

14. A lighting and / or turn signal device (10) mounted on the handlebars (20) of a vehicle, particularly a bicycle or scooter, An external device (50) is positioned to be attached to the handlebar as an extension of one of the two side ends of the handlebar, and the external device (50) includes a support (60) on which one or more light sources (61-66) are arranged, The connection device (30, 30') is connected to the support device (50), houses a power supply (41), and / or allows the external device to be connected to the power supply, and is positioned at least partially within the tubular portion (23) of the handlebar, The device is arranged to allow removal and / or insertion of the battery (41) and / or the assembly (40) containing the battery for recharging or replacement of the battery, and the one or more light sources (61-66) remain connected to the lighting device and / or turn signal device (10) when the battery and / or the assembly is removed from the device (10).

15. The vehicle is an electric vehicle including a battery that supplies power for propulsion of the vehicle, and the device (10) includes an electrical connection part arranged to connect the device (10) to the battery that supplies power for propulsion of the vehicle, according to any one of claims 1 to 8 and 13.

Images