Power supply monitoring device for human-powered vehicle and operating device and control system thereof

Abstract

The present invention provides a power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle. The power supply monitoring device essentially includes a first detector and a first controller. The first detector is configured to detect first information related to the electrical load of at least one power supply. The first controller is configured to control the first detector to detect the first information in a predetermined state, the predetermined state including a state in which the electrical value supplied by the power supply is less than a predetermined value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This case generally concerns a power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle. Prior Technology

[0002] Human-powered vehicles such as bicycles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), personal boats, and snowmobiles typically include one or more operating devices for controlling one or more components. These operating devices include a user-operated component that operates one or more other components. Therefore, the operating device is usually provided in a convenient location for the user to operate it (such as on the handlebars of a bicycle). Some operating devices are electrically operated, providing one or more electrically operated switches that are activated by moving the operating component (which in turn transmits control signals to operate electrical components). These one or more switches may transmit control signals wirelessly or via wires. An example of a control device for a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,604,206 B2, assigned to Shimano Inc. When a human-powered vehicle uses an electrically operated device to operate electrical components, one or more power supplies are provided. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, the contents disclosed in this invention pertain to various features of a power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle. As used herein, the term "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle that can be driven by at least human power, but does not include a vehicle that uses only a transmission force other than human power. In particular, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as the transmission force are not included in this category of human-powered vehicles. The human-powered vehicle is generally conceived as a small, lightweight vehicle that sometimes does not require a license for driving on public roads. The number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a unicycle, and a vehicle with three or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a freight bike, and a leaning bicycle, as well as an electric-assisted bicycle (E-bike).

[0004] In view of the state of the known art and in accordance with the first aspect disclosed in this invention, a power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The power supply monitoring device essentially includes a first detector and a first controller. The first detector is configured to detect first information related to the electrical load of at least one power supply. The first controller is configured to control the first detector to detect the first information in a predetermined state. The predetermined state includes a state in which the electrical value supplied by the power supply is less than a predetermined value.

[0005] By employing the power supply monitoring device based on the first state, the first detector can be appropriately controlled based on the electrical load supplied by the power supply.

[0006] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to the first embodiment is configured such that the first controller is configured to use the first information to perform value conversion, so as to transmit the first information to different electrical components in a predetermined state. The first controller is configured to suspend at least one of the activities related to changes in the first information in order to perform the value conversion.

[0007] By employing the power supply monitoring device based on the second state, it is possible to avoid error fluctuations in the first information transmitted to different electrical components by suspending the activity related to the change of the first information during the value conversion period.

[0008] According to the third embodiment of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to the second embodiment is configured such that the first controller is configured to perform the value conversion in response to receiving control input from the electric components.

[0009] The power supply monitoring device based on the third state may update the first information being transmitted to the different electrical components when the control input is received, so that the user has updated the information at that time.

[0010] According to the fourth state of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to the first state or the second state is configured such that the value conversion includes an analog-to-digital conversion.

[0011] The power supply monitoring device based on the fourth state may use an analog detector as the first detector and has a digital output of the first information being transmitted to the different electrical components.

[0012] According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to any one of the first to fourth embodiments further includes a second detector and a second controller. The second detector is configured to detect second information related to the temperature of the power supply. The second controller is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the first and second information.

[0013] By employing the power supply monitoring device based on the fifth state, the power supply status can be corrected based on changes in the temperature of the power supply.

[0014] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to the fifth aspect is configured such that the second controller is configured to enable the second detector in response to a predetermined condition.

[0015] By employing the power supply monitoring device according to the sixth state, power consumption may be reduced by selectively activating the second detector in response to predetermined conditions.

[0016] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to the sixth aspect is configured such that the predetermined state includes at least one of a predetermined time interval, a reset operation of the controller, and a user input operation.

[0017] By employing the power supply monitoring device according to the seventh state, the first information being transmitted to the different electrical components at the required time can be updated appropriately.

[0018] According to the eighth state of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to any one of the third to seventh states is configured such that the second detector includes a thermistor.

[0019] The power supply monitoring device based on the eighth state can be simple and inexpensive by using a thermistor as the second detector.

[0020] According to the ninth state of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to any one of the third to eighth states is configured such that the second controller includes a memory having correction data relating the corrected power supply state to one of the relationships between multiple temperatures and multiple power supply states.

[0021] By employing the power supply monitoring device based on the ninth state, and using the calibration data stored in the memory, the power supply status system can be easily corrected for temperature changes.

[0022] According to the tenth state of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to any one of the fifth to ninth states further includes a notification device configured to output a notification indicating the corrected power supply status.

[0023] Using the power supply monitoring device according to the tenth state, the user may be notified of the corrected power supply status.

[0024] According to the eleventh state of the present invention, the power supply monitoring device according to any one of the first state to the tenth state is configured such that the first detector is configured to detect the voltage of the power supply as the first information.

[0025] By employing the power supply monitoring device based on the eleventh state, the voltage of the power supply can be accurately measured.

[0026] According to the twelfth aspect disclosed in this invention, a power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The power supply monitoring device includes a detector and a controller. The detector is configured to detect information related to the temperature of at least one power supply. The controller is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the information.

[0027] By employing the power supply monitoring device based on the twelfth state, the power supply status can be estimated more accurately based on the temperature change of the power supply.

[0028] According to the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention, an operating device includes a power supply monitoring device according to any one of the first to twelfth embodiments. The operating device further includes a base member and an operating member. The operating member is movably coupled to the base member.

[0029] The operating device according to the thirteenth state may be used with a power supply monitoring device to monitor the power supply of the operating device.

[0030] According to the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention, the operating device according to the thirteenth embodiment is configured such that the base member includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a grip portion. The first end portion has a handlebar storage recess configured to couple to a handlebar. The second end portion has a rounded end portion. The grip portion is provided between the first end portion and the second end portion.

[0031] The operating device according to the fourteenth state is installed on the handlebars of a human-powered vehicle and is held by the user while riding.

[0032] According to the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention, the operating device according to the thirteenth or fourteenth embodiment is configured such that the operating member includes a rod pivotally mounted on the base member.

[0033] Using the operating device according to the fifteenth state, the operating device can be easily operated by pivoting the lever.

[0034] According to the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the thirteenth to fifteenth embodiments further includes a receiving structure, including a receiving portion configured to receive the power supply provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member.

[0035] By employing the operating device according to the sixteenth state, and by providing the power supply to one of the base component and the operating component, a simple and compact setup can be achieved.

[0036] According to the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth embodiments further includes a wireless communicator provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member.

[0037] Using the operating device according to the seventeenth state, it is possible to wirelessly operate at least one remotely located component and provide a simple structure without having to wire the operating device to another component.

[0038] According to the eighteenth embodiment of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments is configured such that the power supply includes at least one primary battery.

[0039] Using the operating device according to the eighteenth state, it is possible to manufacture the operating device at a relatively low cost by using at least one primary battery, compared to using a secondary battery.

[0040] According to the nineteenth embodiment disclosed in this invention, a control system includes the operating device according to any one of the thirteenth to eighteenth embodiments. The control system further includes at least one component that controls the operation of the operating component.

[0041] Using the control system based on the nineteenth state, the operating device can be used to appropriately control at least one component in response to the operation of the operating component.

[0042] According to the twentieth aspect of the present invention, the control system according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the at least one component includes one of a gear changing device, a suspension device, an adjustable seat post, a braking device, a display device, and a transmission auxiliary device.

[0043] The control system according to the twentieth state is used to appropriately control various vehicle parts, such as gear shifting devices, suspension devices, adjustable seatposts, braking devices, display devices, and transmission auxiliary devices.

[0044] Furthermore, other objects, features, forms, and advantages of the disclosed power supply monitoring device will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following embodiments obtained in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which disclose various preferred embodiments of the power supply monitoring device. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0045] Now refer to the accompanying drawings that form part of this original disclosure.

[0046] Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a power supply control device and a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) equipped with a power supply monitoring device, according to one of the specific embodiments disclosed in this invention.

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the control system of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Figure 1.

[0048] Figure 3 is an internal elevation view of the operating device installed on the handlebars of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Figure 1.

[0049] Figure 4 is a partial perspective view of one part of the operating device illustrated in Figure 3.

[0050] Figure 5 is a central longitudinal cross-sectional view of the operating device illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.

[0051] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device illustrated in Figures 3 to 5, as seen along section line 6-6 of Figure 4.

[0052] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the power supply control device and the power supply monitoring device of the operating device illustrated in Figures 3 to 6.

[0053] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the power supply control device, including the power supply monitoring device of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Figure 1.

[0054] Figure 9 is a graph showing the relationship between various discharge levels supplied by the power supply and various detected voltages supplied by the power supply at various temperatures before calibration.

[0055] Figure 10 is a graph showing the relationship between the discharge levels of the power supply and the calibrated voltage of the power supply after temperature correction.

[0056] Figure 11 is a table showing the relationship between the discharge levels of the power supply and the calibrated voltages of the power supply after temperature correction.

[0057] Figure 12 is a graph showing the battery current and battery voltage values ​​when content processing is interrupted during analog-to-digital conversion.

[0058] Figure 13 is an external elevation view of the operating device installed on the handlebars of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Figure 1.

[0059] Figure 14 is a partial internal elevation view of one part of the operating device illustrated in Figure 13.

[0060] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, as seen along section lines 15-15 of Figure 14.

[0061] Figure 16 is a side elevation view of a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) equipped with a power supply control device and a power supply monitoring device according to another illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Implementation

[0062] The selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings, in which the same reference numerals designate corresponding or equivalent elements. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (such as bicycles) that the following descriptions of these embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0063] Referring initially to FIG1, a human-powered vehicle V1 equipped with a control system 10 according to the first embodiment is illustrated. The human-powered vehicle V1 is configured to be powered by the human power of at least one user (i.e., a rider) riding the vehicle. The human-powered vehicle V1 has any number of wheels. For example, the human-powered vehicle V1 has at least one wheel. In an embodiment of the invention, the human-powered vehicle V1 is preferably smaller than a four-wheeled automobile. However, the human-powered vehicle V1 can be of any size. Examples of such human-powered vehicles include (but are not limited to) a bicycle, a tricycle, and a kick scooter. In an embodiment of the invention, the human-powered vehicle V1 is illustrated as a road bike. However, the control system 10 can be applied to other human-powered vehicles and any type of bicycle, such as mountain bikes, off-road bikes, gravel bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, and leaning bikes.

[0064] As shown in Figure 1, the human-powered bicycle V1 essentially comprises a frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. A suspension fork FF is pivotally coupled to the frame F at its upper end and rotatably supports the front wheel FW at its lower end. The human-powered bicycle V1 further includes a handlebar H, which is mounted to the upper end of the fork FF for controlling the front wheel FW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to the rear end of the frame F. The seatpost SP is conventionally mounted to the seatpost of the frame F and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner.

[0065] The human-powered vehicle further includes a drivetrain assembly DT. Here, for example, the drivetrain assembly DT is of the chain-driven type, comprising a crank C, a plurality of front sprockets FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crankshaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crankshaft CA1 is conventionally rotatably supported to the front frame FB via a bottom bracket. The crank arms CA2 are provided on opposite ends of the crankshaft CA1. Pedals PD are rotatably coupled to the distal ends of each of the crank arms CA2. Although the drivetrain assembly DT is illustrated as a chain-driven type, it can be selected from any type of drivetrain assembly and can be of the belt-driven or shaft-driven type. The front sprockets FS are provided on the crank C to rotate integrally with the crankshaft CA1. The rear sprockets CS are provided on the hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN runs around the front sprockets FS and the rear sprockets CS. The human-powered drive system is applied to the pedals PD by the rider, and the drive system is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprockets FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets CS.

[0066] As shown in Figure 2, in a specific embodiment of the present invention, the control system 10 essentially includes at least one operating device OD and at least one vehicle component VC, in addition to an operating device OD. In this specific embodiment, the control system 10 uses wireless communication to communicate between the at least one operating device OD and the at least one vehicle component VC. However, the control system 10 may use wired and / or wireless communication as desired and / or required.

[0067] Here, the human-powered vehicle V1 is a bicycle, and the vehicle component VC is a bicycle component BC. Therefore, as used herein, the term "bicycle component BC" generally refers to all such bicycle components of the human-powered vehicle V1. On the other hand, as used herein, the term "vehicle component VC" generally refers to all such bicycle components of the human-powered vehicle V1, as well as components of each vehicle other than those that can be used with the control system 10 disclosed herein. Therefore, the operating devices are a type of vehicle component, and here, the operating device OD is a type of bicycle component BC of the human-powered vehicle V1.

[0068] Referring back to Figure 1, the vehicle component VC or the bicycle component BC includes an electric operating device 12 or 12', an electric front derailleur 16, and an electric rear derailleur 14. For simplicity, the control system 10 will be described with respect to a single operating device OD (operating device 12) and a single bicycle component BC (rear derailleur 14). However, the control system 10 is not limited to this configuration, but may include one or more operating devices OD and one or more vehicle components VC.

[0069] A rear derailleur 14 and an electric front derailleur 16 are provided to the frame F. The rear derailleur 14 is configured to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS, in response to either an automatic shift signal from the bicycle computer or a shift signal input by the user from the operating device 12. The front derailleur 16 is configured to shift the chain CN between the front sprockets FS, in response to either an automatic shift signal from the bicycle computer CC or a shift signal input by the user from the operating device 12'.

[0070] The control system 10 includes the operating device OD (operating device 12 or operating device 12'), and further includes at least one component BC (rear transmission 14 or front transmission 16) which controls the operation of the operating component (operating device 12 or operating device 12'). For example, the control system 10 includes the operating device 12 and the rear transmission 14, wherein the rear transmission 14 controls the operation of the operating component. However, the at least one component of the control system 10 is not limited to an external gear-changing device (such as a transmission). Rather, the at least one component includes one of a gear-changing device, a suspension device, an adjustable seatpost, a braking device, a display device, and a transmission assist device.

[0071] Referring to Figures 2 to 5, the power supply control device 30, in addition to the lights, provides components for the manually driven vehicle V1. Here, the operating device 12 includes the power supply control device 30. Furthermore, a power supply monitoring device 32 is provided for the manually driven vehicle V1. Also, here, the operating device 12 includes the power supply monitoring device 32.

[0072] Basically, the power supply control device 30 includes a housing structure 34, a controller 36, and an electrical component 38. As explained below, the housing structure 34 is configured to house and electrically connect to at least one power supply 40. Here, the power supply 40 includes at least one primary battery. Preferably, the at least one primary battery includes two button batteries BT1 and BT2. The button batteries BT1 and BT2 are supported by the housing structure 34. The button batteries BT1 and BT2 are electrically connected to the controller 36 and the electrical component 38 via the housing structure 34. Therefore, the power supply 40 serves both the power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32. Alternatively, the power supply 40 may be located remotely, or a central power supply may be used for both the power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32.

[0073] Here, the power supply control device 30 includes a circuit board CB1, which is provided to the operating device 12. A controller 36, as seen in Figures 2 and 5, is provided to the circuit board CB1. An electric component 38, as seen in Figures 2 and 5, is provided to the circuit board CB1. As explained below, the housing structure 34 may be located distally from the circuit board CB1, as schematically illustrated in Figure 2, or it may be mounted on the circuit board CB1, as illustrated in Figure 5.

[0074] The controller 36 is configured to control the power supplied from the power supply 40 to the electric component 38, as explained below. Therefore, the controller 36 is electrically connected to the electric component 38. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply control device 30 includes several of these electric components 38, which are controlled by the controller 36. It will be apparent from this disclosure that these electric components 38 are not limited to those disclosed.

[0075] In this illustrated embodiment, the electric component 38 includes a wireless communicator 42. Here, the wireless communicator 42 is provided to the circuit board CB1, as seen in FIG2. Preferably, the wireless communicator 42 includes an antenna 42a. However, the wireless communicator 42 may be provided at a location remote from the circuit board CB. The wireless communicator 42 is configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more of the bicycle components BC. For example, the wireless communicator 42 wirelessly communicates shift signals to the rear derailleur 14 and status information to the bicycle computer CC. The wireless communicator 42 is controlled automatically by the controller 36 according to pre-stored programs or in response to user input.

[0076] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the electric component 38 includes a light-emitting diode (LED) circuit 44 configured to provide information such as communication errors, processing errors, and remaining power supply levels. Here, the LED circuit 44 is provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIG2. However, the LED circuit 44 can be provided at a location remote from the circuit board CB. The LED circuit 44 is also an example of a notification device. The LED circuit 44 is controlled by the controller 36 as explained below.

[0077] Furthermore, the electric component 38 includes a notification device 46. The notification device 46 is configured to output a notification indicating the calibrated power supply status. For example, the controller 36 controls the notification device 46 to output the calibrated power supply status to the wireless communicator 42, which in turn wirelessly communicates the calibrated power supply status to the bicycle computer CC. In this way, the calibrated power supply status can be displayed on the screen of the bicycle computer CC. Here, the notification device 46 is provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIG2. However, the notification device 46 can be provided at a location remote from the circuit board CB. Of course, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the electric component 38 is not limited to the wireless communicator 42, the LED circuit 44, and the notification device 46.

[0078] Referring now to Figures 1 and 3 through 7, the operating device 12 will now be discussed in more detail. The operating device 12 is mounted on the handlebars H, allowing the rider of the human-powered vehicle V1 to selectively operate the vehicle components from the handlebars H. Essentially, the operating device 12 comprises a base member 50 and an operating member 52. The operating member 52 is movably coupled to the base member 50. The base member 50 is configured to be mounted to the handlebars H of the human-powered vehicle V1. Here, in the illustrated specific embodiment, the base member 50 includes a first end portion 50a, a second end portion 50b, and a grip portion 50c. Here, the first end portion 50a corresponds to the proximal end portion of the base member 50, and the second end portion 50b corresponds to the distal end portion 16b of the base member 50. The first end portion 50a is opposite to the second end portion 50b. The grip portion 50c is provided between the first end portion 50a and the second end portion 50b.

[0079] The first end portion 50a has a handlebar receiving recess 50a1 configured to couple to the handlebar H. The handlebar receiving recess 50a1 is configured to receive a curved section of the handlebar H. A handlebar mounting structure 56 is provided for mounting the base member 50 to the handlebar receiving recess 50a1. Here, the handlebar mounting structure 56 includes a clamping band and a fastener (such as a nut and bolt) for clamping the handlebar H to secure the base member 50 to the handlebar H. The handlebar mounting structure 56 can be any suitable mounting structure and is not limited to the illustrated configuration.

[0080] The second end portion 50b has a rounded end portion 50bl. In other words, the rounded end portion 50bl is part of the distal end portion of the base member 50. The rounded end portion 50bl protrudes upward relative to the grip portion 50c. The rounded end portion 50bl helps to restrain the forward movement of the rider's hands on the grip portion 50c.

[0081] In the case where the operating device 12 is used as a bicycle operating device for a road bike, the rider will sometimes grip and rest on the handlebar portion 50c during riding. Preferably, the base member 50 is made of resin. For example, the base member 50 is made of a fiber-reinforced hard plastic material (resin), which may be used as desired and / or required. This resin of the base member 50 is a rigid material suitable for the rider to grip and rest on during riding. The resin of the base member 50 is also lightweight, so that the overall weight of the operating device 12 can be minimized. However, the base member 50 may be made of other suitable materials as desired and / or required. The base member 50 is made of several parts forming the first end portion 50a, the second end portion 50b, and the handlebar portion 50c. However, the base member 50 may be made of a single part as desired and / or required.

[0082] While the rider is gripping the base member 50, a comfortable grip is required for the rider's hands. To provide a comfortable grip, the operating device 12 further includes a cover 54 that at least partially covers the grip portion 50c. Therefore, the base member 50 is partially covered by the cover 54. Thus, the cover 54 is often referred to as a grip cover because the rider sometimes grips the base member 50 in the area of ​​the cover 54 during riding. In this case, the cover 54 is made of an elastomeric material. For example, the cover 54 is made of a flexible rubber material. The cover 54 has a tubular configuration (with a front opening and a rear opening) such that the cover 54 extends over the base member 50. In other words, the cover 54 covers the elastic component (such as rubber) of the outer surface of the grip portion 50c. Here, the cover 54 also partially covers the rounded portion 50bl of the base member 50. Therefore, the cover 54 provides cushioning to the grip portion 50c of the base member 50 and also gives the base member 50 an attractive appearance.

[0083] In this illustrative embodiment, the operating device 12 is configured to operate the rear derailleur 14 and the rear brake RB. The rear brake RB is hydraulically operated and connected to the operating device 12 via a cable. More specifically, the operating member 52 includes a lever 60 pivotally mounted on the base member 50. The lever 60 is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis A1 on a second end portion 50b of the base member 50. To perform braking operation, the lever 60 is pivoted from a rest position (shown in solid lines) toward the handlebars H by the rider to an operating position (shown in dashed lines). The lever 60 is configured to operate the rear brake RB. Therefore, the lever 60 constitutes a brake lever.

[0084] As used herein, the term "rest position" refers to a state in which the movable part (such as lever 60) remains stationary without user or other external intervention (such as not holding lever 60) to establish a state corresponding to that rest position. Therefore, the term "rest position" can also refer to a non-operating position. As used herein, the terms "operated position" and "actuated position" refer to the position in which the movable part has been moved from the rest position by the user.

[0085] Here, the operating member 52 further includes a first operating lever 61 and a second operating lever 62. The first operating lever 61 is configured to operate a first electric input switch SW1. The second operating lever 62 is configured to operate a second electric input switch SW2. The first electric input switch SW1 and the second electric input switch SW2 are mounted on the lever 60. Here, the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 are pivotally mounted on the lever 60 about the pivot axis A2. Alternatively, the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 may be pivotally mounted on the base member 50 as desired and / or required. Here, the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 are configured to operate the rear transmission 14.

[0086] One of the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 is configured to output an upshift signal, while the other of the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 is configured to output a downshift signal. However, operating the shift lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 can be configured to operate one or more electrical components as desired and / or required. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, although the operating member 52 is provided with the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62, the first operating lever 61 can be omitted so that only the second operating lever 62 is provided to operate one or more electrical components as desired and / or required. For example, the second operating lever 62 can be configured to upshift or downshift according to one of the rear transmission 14 and the front transmission 16 according to the synchronized shift path, and the operating device 12' can be configured to upshift or downshift the other of the rear transmission 14 and the front transmission 16 according to the synchronized shift path.

[0087] Operating device 12' is a mirror image of operating device 12. Operating device 12' is mounted on the opposite side of the handlebar H and operating device 12. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, operating device 12' is configured to operate the front derailleur 16 and the front brake device FB. Therefore, the above description of operating device 12 applies to operating device 12'.

[0088] As mentioned above, the operating device 12 includes a power supply control device 30 and a power supply monitoring device 32. Preferably, some or all of the power supply control device 30 and / or the power supply monitoring device 32 are provided to at least one of the base member 50 and the operating member 52.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 includes a power supply 40. Preferably, the power supply 40 is provided to at least one of the base member 50 and the operating member 52. Here, the power supply 40 is provided to the rounded portion 50b1 of the base member 50. As seen in Figures 5 and 6, the operating device 12 includes a receiving structure 34. In particular, the receiving structure 34 is provided to the rounded portion 50b1 of the base member 50. However, the receiving structure 34 may also be provided to the grip portion 50c of the base member 50 and / or to the lever 60 of the operating member 52.

[0090] Here, the housing structure 34 includes a housing portion 34A configured to house the power supply 40. Specifically, the housing portion 34A is electrically connected by wires W1 and W2 supplied to the circuit board CB. Therefore, the housing structure 34 is provided in a location where the power supply 40 can be easily replaced. The housing structure 34 further includes a housing 34B and a cover 34C. The housing 34B is provided in a recess in the rounded portion 50bl of the base member 50, while the cover 34C forms the top outer surface of the rounded portion 50bl of the base member 50. The cover 34C is pivotally attached to the housing 34B at one end by a pivot pin 34D and detachably attached to the housing 34B at the other end by a retaining screw 34E. Therefore, the cover 34C is pivotally attached to the housing 34B between a closed position and an open position.

[0091] Here, the receiving portion 34A includes an electrical connector comprising a negative contact 34A1 and a positive contact 34A2. The negative contact 34A1 and the positive contact 34A2 are electrically connected to the circuit of the circuit board CB1 by wires W1 and W2. The receiving portion 34A further includes an intermediate contact 34A3 disposed between the negative contact 34A1 and the positive contact 34A2. Therefore, the receiving portion 34A forms a pair of coin-shaped battery storage pouches for storing the button batteries BT1 and BT2 of the power supply 40. As mentioned above, the electrical components 38 are provided to the circuit of the circuit board CB1. In this manner, the electrical components 38 are electrically connected to the power supply 40 via the receiving structure 34.

[0092] Electrical connector 64 is electrically connected to the circuitry of the circuit board CB1. Electrical connector 64 can be used to electrically connect an external device to the circuit board CB1. The external device may be a bicycle computer, an auxiliary power supply, or any other additional electrical component.

[0093] Furthermore, preferably, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 includes a wireless communicator 42. As mentioned above, the wireless communicator 42 is provided to the circuitry of the circuit board CB1. However, the wireless communicator 42 may be provided at other locations as desired and / or required. Furthermore, preferably, the wireless communicator 42 is provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member. Here, the wireless communicator 42 is provided to the rounded portion 50bl of the base member 50.

[0094] Furthermore, preferably, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 includes a notification device 46. As mentioned above, the notification device 46 is provided to the circuitry of the circuit board CB1. However, the notification device 46 may be provided at other locations as desired and / or required. Additionally, the notification device 46 is provided to the rounded portion 50bl of the base member 50.

[0095] As seen in Figures 2, 5, and 7, the electric component 38 includes at least one light-emitting device. As mentioned above, this light-emitting device includes an LED circuit 44. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the at least one light-emitting device includes a first light-emitting device 44A and a second light-emitting device 44B. The light-emitting device 44A and the second light-emitting device 44B are part of the LED circuit 44 on the circuit board CB1. Preferably, the first light-emitting device 44A is configured to generate a first color of light, and the second light-emitting device 44B is configured to generate a second color of light. The second color of light is a different color from the first color of light. As seen in Figure 5, the light from the first light-emitting device 44A is visible through the base member 50 via the light panel 66. The light from the second light-emitting device 44B is also visible through the base member 50 via the light panel 66. Essentially, the light panel 66 is illuminated by the light from the first light-emitting device 44A and / or the second light-emitting device 44B. The light panel 66 has one or more protrusions 66a extending through one or more openings in the base member 50 to make the light from the first light-emitting device 44A and / or the second light-emitting device 44B visible. Here, the light panel 66 has only a single protrusion 66a for receiving the light from the first light-emitting device 44A and the second light-emitting device 44B.

[0096] The first light-emitting device 44A and the second light-emitting device 44B are selectively controlled by the controller 36 (e.g., illuminated and / or flashed) to inform the user of the power supply status of the power supply 40 (e.g., remaining battery level). The first light-emitting device 44A and the second light-emitting device 44B can also be selectively controlled by the controller 36 to inform the user of other information related to the operating device 12, as desired and / or required. For example, the first light-emitting device 44A and the second light-emitting device 44B can be used to inform the user of the communication status of the wireless communicator 42 and / or the operating status of the controller 36.

[0097] Although LED circuit 44 is illustrated on the circuit board CB1, it will be apparent from the disclosure that LED circuit 44 can be provided on a circuit board as desired and / or required to be separate from circuit board CB1. As seen in FIG8, LED circuit 44 is electrically connected to power supply 40. Controller 36 controls the power from power supply 40 to selectively illuminate the first light-emitting device 44A and / or the second light-emitting device 44B in any combination of a steady state and / or a flashing state. LED circuit 44 further includes a first N-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor N-FET1; and a first diode D1, which is controlled by controller 36 to selectively illuminate the first light-emitting device 44A to notify the user according to a predetermined illumination pattern. Similarly, LED circuit 44 further includes a second N-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor N-FET2; and a second diode D2, which is controlled by controller 36 to selectively illuminate the second light-emitting device 44B to notify the user according to a predetermined illumination pattern.

[0098] The power supply control device 30 will now be discussed in more detail with reference to Figures 2 and 8. As mentioned above, the power supply control device 30 is provided to operating devices 12 and 12'. However, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other components may be used in the power supply control device 30. The power supply control device 30 further includes a regulating circuit 70. The regulating circuit 70 is electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the electric component 38. The regulating circuit 70 is configured to regulate the current supplied from the power supply 40 to the electric component 38 at a constant level. As seen in Figure 8, the regulating circuit 70 includes a constant current circuit 70A. The constant current circuit 70A is configured to generate a constant current value regardless of the voltage of the power supply 40 and / or the load resistance applied to the power supply 40. Here, the power supply control device 30 further includes a buck circuit 72. The buck circuit 72 is electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the electric component 38. The buck circuit 72 is configured to reduce the voltage supplied from the power supply 40 to the electric component 38. The regulating circuit 70 is electrically connected to the power supply 40, the step-down circuit 72, and the electric component 38. Specifically, the step-down circuit 72 is provided in the electrical path between the power supply 40 and the electric component 38 (such as the wireless communicator 42, LED circuit 44, and notification device 46) so that voltages lower than the maximum voltage of the power supply 40 are received by the electric component 38. The regulating circuit 70 is provided in the electrical path between the step-down circuit 72 and the electric component 38 (such as the wireless communicator 42, LED circuit 44, and notification device 46). For example, each of the button batteries BT1 and BT2 is a CR1632 button battery with a maximum voltage of 3.4 volts. Therefore, the power supply 40 has a maximum voltage of 6.8 volts (2 * 3.4 volts). The step-down circuit 72 reduces this voltage from the power supply 40 to 3.3 volts.

[0099] The power supply control device 30 includes a P-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOSFET) P-FET and a diode D3. The P-FET is configured to control the current flow between the power supply 40 and the buck circuit 72 in response to the gate voltage applied to its gate terminals. The P-FET is configured to allow current flow between the power supply 40 and the buck circuit 72 when the gate voltage applied to its gate terminals is higher than a threshold voltage. The P-FET is configured to interrupt current flow between the power supply 40 and the buck circuit 72 when the gate voltage applied to its gate terminals is equal to or lower than the threshold voltage. The output voltage of the power supply 40 is higher than the threshold voltage. The diode D3 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction from the buck circuit 72 to the controller 36 and the regulation circuit 70. In other words, the diode D3 is configured to restrict the current from flowing from the controller 36 and the regulating circuit 70 to the step-down circuit 72.

[0100] In the illustrated specific embodiment, the power supply control device 30 further includes a low-dropout regulator 74 electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the electric component 38 to convert a first input voltage supplied from the power supply 40 into a predetermined supply voltage supplied to the electric component 38. The low-dropout regulator 74 is a direct-current (DC) linear voltage regulator that regulates the output voltage from the power supply 40 to minimize current variations.

[0101] The power supply monitoring device 32 will now be discussed in more detail. As mentioned above, the power supply monitoring device 32 is provided to the operating device 12 and the operating device 12'. However, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other components can be used with the power supply monitoring device 32. As seen in Figure 8, the power supply monitoring device 32 is integrated with the power supply control device 30. However, the power supply monitoring device 32 can be provided without the power supply control device 30. Similarly, the power supply control device 30 can be provided without the power supply monitoring device 32.

[0102] Generally, in the illustrated embodiment, the power supply monitoring device 32 includes a first controller 76. The first controller 76 is configured to perform value conversion using first information to transmit the first information to different electrical components in a predetermined state. This predetermined state includes a state where an electrical value EV supplied by the power supply 40 is less than a predetermined value. To avoid error fluctuations in the first information, the first controller 76 is configured to suspend one or more activities affecting the first information during the value conversion. The first controller 76 is configured to suspend at least one activity related to changes in the first information in order to perform the value conversion. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a second controller 78. The second controller 78 is configured to estimate the corrected power supply state based on the first information received from the first controller 76 and second information affecting the corrected power supply state. In the illustrated embodiment, the corrected power supply state corresponds to a remaining power supply level or a power supply discharge level. That is, since the voltage of the power supply 40 can fluctuate significantly depending on the temperature and / or the electrical load, the voltage of the power supply 40 is calibrated so that the power supply status can be detected more accurately.

[0103] The calibrated power supply status can be output to the user using the notification device 46. Therefore, in this illustrated embodiment, the power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a notification device 46 configured to output a notification indicating the calibrated power supply status. More specifically, the notification device 46 is controlled by a second controller 78 to transmit the value used for analog-to-digital conversion to the bicycle computer using a wireless communicator 42. Alternatively, the notification device 46 can be electrically connected via cable to a display screen provided on the operating device 12 or located remotely from the operating device 12.

[0104] The first controller 76 and the second controller 78 can be a single controller (i.e., controller 36) or two controllers. The first controller 76 and the second controller 78 can be arranged on the same circuit board or on different circuit boards. In any case, the first controller 76 and the second controller 78 are electrically connected to the power supply 40. Alternatively, the first controller 76 and the second controller 78 can be combined into controller 36.

[0105] The first controller 76 is an electronic controller, preferably a microcomputer or central processing unit (CPU) including at least one processor 76A and memory 76B (i.e., at least one computer storage device). The electronic controller 12 is formed from one or more semiconductor chips mounted on the circuit board CB1. As used herein, the term "electronic controller" refers to the hardware executing software programs and does not include a person. The processor 76A is configured to control the memory 76B to store data in and read data from the storage areas of the memory 76B. The first electric input switch SW1 and the second electric input switch SW2 are connected to the processor 76A and the memory 76B via conductive paths and / or system buses of the circuit board CB1. The memory 76B (such as the ROM) stores the program. This program is read into the processor 76A, and thereby performs the configuration and / or algorithms of the first controller 76.

[0106] Memory 76B can be any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, with the sole exception of transient signal transmission. For example, memory 76B may include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and may include internal memory or other types of memory devices, such as a read-only memory (ROM) device, a random access memory (RAM) device, a hard disk, a flash drive, etc.

[0107] The second controller 78 is an electronic controller, preferably a microcomputer or central processing unit (CPU) including at least one processor 78A and memory 78B (i.e., at least one computer storage device). The electronic controller 12 is formed from one or more semiconductor chips mounted on the circuit board CB1. The processor 78A is configured to control the memory 78B to store data in and read data from the storage areas of the memory 78B. The first electric input switch SW1 and the second electric input switch SW2 are connected to the processor 78A and the memory 78B via conductive paths and / or system busbars of the circuit board CB1. The memory 78B (such as a ROM) stores a program. This program is read into the processor 78A, and thereby performs the configuration and / or algorithms of the second controller 78.

[0108] Memory 78B can be any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, with the sole exception of transient signal transmission. For example, memory 78B may include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and may include internal memory or other types of memory devices, such as a read-only memory (ROM) device, a random access memory (RAM) device, a hard disk, a USB flash drive, etc.

[0109] As shown in Figure 9, the voltage of the power supply 40 is affected by the temperature of the power supply 40. For example, when the power supply 40 is fully charged at a temperature of 50°C, the voltage of the power supply 40 is approximately 6.4 volts. However, when the power supply 40 is fully charged at a temperature of -10°C, the voltage of the power supply 40 drops to approximately 5.7 volts. This change in the voltage of the power supply 40 becomes larger as the discharge level increases (i.e., the remaining charge decreases). Therefore, as shown in Figure 10, the second controller 78 is configured to apply a correction to adjust the voltage of the power supply 40 for temperature changes. This corrected voltage corresponds to the voltage available from the power supply 40 for operating the electric component 38 due to the temperature change. In this way, the fluctuation of the voltage of the power supply 40 is reduced in response to temperature changes. The graph in Figure 10 can be pre-stored in the memory 78B of the second controller 78. However, the correction is not limited to obtaining a corrected voltage value. For example, the detected electrical value (EV) of the power supply 40 can be revised by the second controller 78 using pre-stored temperature correction data, such that correction is applied to the detected electrical value EV of the power supply 40. In this way, the predetermined state is used to determine the point in time when the value is converted using the first information.

[0110] Figure 11 shows a table relating the voltage of power supply 40 at different temperatures to estimate the actual discharge level of power supply 40. This table in Figure 11 can be pre-stored in memory 78B of the second controller 78. Strictly speaking, in this illustrated embodiment, the calibration by the second controller 78 does not correct the voltage value. Rather, for example, as shown in the table of Figure 11, the actual power supply level can be determined based on the detected temperature and the detected voltage. This function of the second controller 78 is also referred to as calibration. Therefore, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the second controller 78 includes memory 78B which has calibration data relating the calibrated state of power supply 40 to one of a plurality of temperatures and a plurality of power supply states.

[0111] In the illustrated specific embodiment, the first information pertains to the detected voltage of the power supply 40. This voltage of the power supply 40 is based on changes in the electrical load of at least one power supply 40. Therefore, the voltage of the power supply 40 can be determined by detecting the electrical load of the power supply 40. Here, the power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a first detector 81. The location of the first detector 81 is not limited to the illustrated location. Rather, the first detector 81 can be located anywhere a voltage value can be detected to determine the current state of the power supply 40. In other words, the first detector 81 can be set or arranged at a location different from the illustrated location, as long as the first detector 81 can detect the current state of the power supply 40. Furthermore, the first detector 81 can be used to detect the voltage value EV of the power supply 40 to determine whether a predetermined state exists for value conversion using the first information. The first detector 81 is configured to detect the first information related to the electrical load of the power supply 40. Therefore, the first detector 81 is an electrical load detector for detecting the electrical load of the power supply 40. Therefore, the first detector 81 is configured to detect the voltage of the power supply 40 as the first information. It will be apparent from this disclosure that the first detector 81 is not limited to the specific embodiment illustrated herein.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the second information pertains to the temperature of the power supply 40. The power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a second detector 82. The second detector 82 is configured to detect the second information related to the temperature of the power supply 40. Here, the second detector 82 includes a thermistor. The location of the second detector 82 is not limited to the illustrated location. Rather, the second detector 82 can be located anywhere the temperature of the power supply 40 can be detected. In other words, the second detector 82 can be set or arranged in a location different from the illustrated location.

[0113] The second controller 78 is configured to estimate the calibrated power supply state based on the first information and the second information. In other words, the second controller 78 is configured to estimate the calibrated power supply state based on the detected voltage or load (the first information) and the detected temperature (the second information). In this way, the calibrated voltage (calibrated power supply state) can be used to more accurately estimate the discharge level (i.e., the remaining charge or voltage). Preferably, the second controller 78 is configured to activate the second detector 82 in response to a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition includes at least one of a predetermined time interval, a reset operation of one of the controllers 36, the first controller 76, or the second controller 78, and a user input operation. In other words, the second controller 78 updates the second information each time the predetermined condition occurs. Alternatively, for example, the second information may only be detected and adjusted when it is needed for estimating the calibrated power supply state or for some other purpose.

[0114] Furthermore, the first controller 76 is configured to control the first detector 81 to detect the first information in a predetermined state. This predetermined state includes a state where the electrical value EV supplied by the power supply 40 is less than a predetermined value. In other words, when the electrical load of the power supply 40 is less than a predetermined load value, the first controller 76 controls the first detector 81 to detect the electrical load of the power supply 40 as the first information. Since the voltage of the power supply 40 can be determined from the electrical load, the first controller 76 controls the first detector 81 to detect the electrical load of the power supply 40, and the first controller 76 determines the voltage of the power supply 40 as the first information.

[0115] The first detector 81 generates an analog value of the electrical load, which needs to be converted into a digital value that can be used by the first controller 76. Therefore, the first controller 76 is configured to use this first information for value conversion so that the first information can be transmitted to different electrical components in the predetermined state. That is, here, the value conversion includes an analog-to-digital conversion. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the first controller 76 performs a value conversion from an analog value to a digital value based on the voltage determined by the detected electrical load. Preferably, the first controller 76 is configured to perform this value conversion in response to receiving control input from the electric component 38. For example, when the wireless communicator 42 (electric component 38) receives control input from the first electric input switch SW1 or the second electric input switch SW2 via the controller 36 (first controller 76 and / or second controller 78).

[0116] This value conversion process consumes a significant amount of power. Therefore, the first controller 76 is configured to suspend at least one of the activities related to the change of the first information in order to perform the value conversion. The at least one of the activities includes processing activities that increase the electrical load of the power supply 40. This suspension of processing activities by the first controller and / or the second controller during the analog-to-digital conversion is shown in Figure 12. Therefore, during this suspension, the notification of the discharge level or remaining power level of the power supply 40 does not change. Once the analog-to-digital conversion process has ended, normal processing activities will resume. In other words, the controllers 36 (first controller 76 and / or second controller 78) will resume updating the discharge level or remaining power level of the power supply 40.

[0117] In the above description, the power supply monitoring device 32 includes one or two controllers (controller 36 or a first controller 76 and a second controller 78), a first detector 81, and a second detector 82. However, the power supply monitoring device 32 may be configured with only controller 36 and second detector 82. In other words, in this configuration, the power supply monitoring device 32 includes detector 82 and a controller 36. Detector 82 is configured to detect information related to the temperature of the power supply 40. Controller 36 is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on this information. Therefore, controller 36 estimates and corrects the power supply state based on the temperature of the power supply 40.

[0118] Referring back to Figure 2, preferably, each of the bicycle components BC (such as the rear derailleur 14 and the front derailleur 16) includes a third controller 90, a position detector 92, an actuator driver 94, an actuator 96, a power supply 98, and a wireless communicator 100. Here, the third controller 90, position detector 92, actuator driver 94, and wireless communicator 100 are provided to circuit board CB2. However, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the third controller 90, position detector 92, actuator driver 94, and wireless communicator 100 may be provided to different circuit boards at different locations. Furthermore, although the bicycle components BC are illustrated to have their own individual power supply, the bicycle components BC may share a power supply provided to one of the bicycle components BC or to the frame F of the remotely driven bicycle V1.

[0119] Wireless communicator 100 receives wireless control signals transmitted from wireless communicator 42. These wireless control signals are processed by a third controller 90 (which controls actuator 96 via actuator driver 94). Therefore, actuator driver 94 controls actuator 96 based on the control signals from the third controller 90. Examples of actuator 96 include a DC motor and a stepper motor. In the case of the rear derailleur 14, actuator 96 includes a rotating shaft operatively coupled to a chain guide of the rear derailleur 14. Position detector 92 is configured to sense the current gear position of the rear derailleur 14. Examples of position detector 92 include a potentiometer and a rotary encoder. Position detector 92 is configured to sense the absolute rotational position of the rotating shaft of actuator 96 as the current gear position of the rear derailleur 14. Actuator 96 and position detector 92 are electrically connected to actuator driver 94. The human-powered bicycle V2 includes a frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. A suspension fork FF is pivotally coupled to the frame F at its upper end and rotatably supports the front wheel FW at its lower end. The human-powered bicycle V2 further includes a handlebar H, which is mounted to the upper end of the fork FF for controlling the front wheel FW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to the rear end of the frame F. The seatpost SP is conventionally mounted to the seatpost of the frame F and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner.

[0120] Referring now to Figures 13 to 15, the operating device 112 is illustrated according to another specific embodiment. Given this similarity between the operating device 12 and the operating device 112, the same reference numerals for the operating device 12 will be used to identify those corresponding or equivalent elements of the operating device 112. Essentially, the operating device 112 is the same as the operating device 12, except that the power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32 are provided to the lever 60 of the operating member 52, rather than to the base member 50. However, as illustrated by the dashed lines in Figure 13, or, if necessary, the receiving structure 34' may be at least partially provided to the grip portion 50c of the base member 50.

[0121] As seen in Figure 15, in this specific embodiment, the operating device 112 includes a receiving structure 134 provided to the lever 60 of the operating member 52. Here, the receiving structure 134 includes a receiving portion 134A configured to receive a power supply 40. Specifically, the receiving portion 134A is provided to the circuit board CB1'. The receiving structure 134 further includes a housing 134B and a cover 134C. The housing 134B is provided to the lever 60 and houses the controller 36, the electrical components 38, the circuit board CB1', the power supply 40, the first electric input switch SW1, and the second electric input switch SW2. The cover 134C is detachably attached to the housing 134B. The wireless communicator 42, the LED circuit 44, and the notification device 46 (i.e., the electrical components 38) are also provided to the circuit board CB1'. Here, the receiving portion 134A includes an electrical connector 134D. Electrical connector 134D may be, for example, an electrical path electrically connected to receiving portion 134A and configured to support power supply 40 on the circuit board CB1'. In this way, in the illustrated embodiment, these electrical components 38 are electrically connected to power supply 40 via receiving structure 134.

[0122] Referring now to Figure 16, a human-powered bicycle V2 equipped with the control system 10 discussed above is illustrated. Here, the human-powered bicycle V2 is illustrated as a power-assisted bicycle specifically designed for off-road use. Since both the human-powered bicycle V1 and the human-powered bicycle V2 are bicycles with many common parts, the same reference numerals used with respect to the human-powered bicycle V1 will also be used with reference to the human-powered bicycle V2 to identify those corresponding or equivalent components of the human-powered bicycle V2.

[0123] In this human-powered vehicle V2, an operating device SL is provided, including the operating device OD shown in FIG2. Therefore, the operating device SL is equipped with the power supply control device 30 and power supply monitoring device 32 discussed above. The operating device SL differs from the operating device 12 in that it is configured for a flat handlebar H.

[0124] The human-powered bicycle V2 further differs from the human-powered bicycle V1 in that it includes an adjustable seatpost 18, a front suspension 20, a transmission assist device 22, a rear brake device RB, a front brake device FB, and a display device SC. Each of the adjustable seatpost 18, front suspension 20, transmission assist device 22, rear brake device RB, front brake device FB, and display device SC is an electric bicycle component that includes the bicycle component BC shown in FIG. 2. In other words, the operating device SL is configured to operate one or more of these bicycle components BC (adjustable seatpost 18, front suspension 20, transmission assist device 22, rear brake device RB, front brake device FB, and display device SC). Preferably, the rear derailleur 14 controls the operation of the operating mechanism of the operating device SL. Furthermore, preferably, the human-powered vehicle V2 here includes various additional operating devices, including the configuration of the operating device OD shown in FIG2 for controlling the adjustable seat post 18, the front suspension 20, the transmission auxiliary device 22, the rear brake device RB, the front brake device FB, and the display device SC.

[0125] The power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32 may be included in one or more of the bicycle parts BC of the human-powered vehicle V2. Therefore, the power supply of the bicycle parts BC of the human-powered vehicle V2 can be controlled and / or monitored in the same manner as described above with respect to the operating device 12.

[0126] In understanding this scope of the invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended as open-ended terms that explicitly state the presence of the stated features, elements, parts, groups, integers, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, parts, groups, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "including," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part," "section," "portion," "member," or "element," when used in the singular, may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plural part.

[0127] As used herein, the following directional terms, "frame facing side," "non-frame facing side," "forward," "rearward," "front," "rear," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "perpendicular," and "transverse," and any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions of a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) in an upright riding position equipped with the power supply monitoring device. Accordingly, these directional terms used to describe the power supply monitoring device should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface equipped with the power supply monitoring device. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate the "right" when viewed from the right as seen from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle), and to indicate the "left" when viewed from the left as seen from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle).

[0128] The phrase "at least one of" used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the choices required. For example, if the number of choices is two, "at least one of" means "only one single choice" or "both of two choices." As another example, if the number of choices is three or more, "at least one of" means "only one single choice" or "any combination of equal to or more than two choices." Furthermore, the phrase "and / or" used in this disclosure means "either one or both of."

[0129] Furthermore, it will be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used in the text to describe various parts, these parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one part from another. Thus, for example, the first part discussed above may be referred to as the second part and vice versa, without departing from the description of the present invention.

[0130] As used herein, the terms "attached" or "attaching" encompass configurations in which an element is directly fixed to another element by directly attaching it to the other element; configurations in which an element is indirectly fixed to another element by attaching it to an intermediate member (e.g., attaching it to the other element); and configurations in which one element is integral with another element (i.e., one element is essentially part of another element). This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "bonded," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately" as used herein indicate a deviation of the modified term such that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0131] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen as examples of the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various modifications and alterations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position, or orientation of such various parts may be changed as desired and / or required, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, parts shown to be directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures arranged therebetween, provided that such changes do not materially affect their intended function. The functions of an element may be performed by two, and vice versa unless otherwise specifically stated. The structure and function of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment. Not all advantages need to be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique from the prior art (alone or in combination with other features) should also be considered as a separate description by the applicant of each further invention, including the structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features(s). Therefore, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0132] 10: Control System 12: Electric operating device; operating device; electronic controller 12': Electric operating device; operating device 14: Electric rear transmission; rear transmission; geared rear transmission 16: Electric front transmission; front transmission 16b: Distal portion 18: Adjustable seat post 20: Front suspension 22: Transmission auxiliary device 30: Power supply control device 32: Power supply monitoring device 34,34',134: Retaining structure 34A, 134A: Accommodation section 34A1: Negative contact 34A2: Positive contact 34A3: Intermediate connection point 34B, 134B: Housing 34C, 134C: Lid 34D: Pivot pin 34E: Fixing screw 36: Controller 38: Electric Components 40,98: Power Supply 42,100: Wireless communicator 42a: Antenna 44: Light Emitting Diode (LED) Circuit 44A: First light-emitting device; light-emitting device 44B: Second light-emitting device 46: Notification device 50: Base components 50a: First end portion 50a1: Handlebar storage recess 50b: Second end portion 50b1: Round head section 50c: Grip area 52: Operating components 54: Cover 56: Handlebar mounting structure 60: pole 61: First operating lever; operating gear shift lever 62: Second operating lever 64: Electrical connector port 66: Light panel 66a: protrusion 70: Adjustment circuit 70A: Constant current circuit 72: Step-down circuit 74: Low differential pressure regulator 76: First Controller 76A, 78A: Processors 76B, 78B: Memory 78: Second controller 81: First Detector 82: Second detector; detector 83: Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) 84: Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) 90: Third Controller 92: Position Detector 94: Actuator Driver 96: Actuator 112: Operating device 134D: Electrical connector A1, A2: Pivot axis BC: Bicycle parts BT1, BT2: Button batteries C: Crankshaft CA1: Crankshaft CA2: Crank arm CB1,CB,CB2,CB1': Circuit board CC: Bicycle Computer CN: Chain CS: Rear sprocket D1: First Dipolar Body D2: Second Dipolar Body D3: Diode DT: Transmission Kit F: Chassis FB: Front frame; front brake system FF: Suspension fork; fork FS: Front sprocket FW: Front wheel H: Handlebar N-FET1: First N-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor N-FET2: Second N-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor OD,SL: Operating devices PD: Pedal P-FET: P-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor RB: Rear Braking System RW: Rear wheel S: bicycle seat or cushion SC: Display device SP: Seat Post SW1: First electric input switch SW2: Second electric input switch V1, V2: Human-powered vehicles VC: Vehicle parts W1, W2: Electrical wires

Claims

1. A power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a first detector configured to detect first information related to an electrical load of at least one power supply; and a first controller configured to control the first detector to detect the electrical load as the first information in a predetermined state where the electrical load of the power supply is less than a predetermined value.

2. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 1, wherein: The first controller is configured to use the first information to perform a value conversion so as to transmit the first information to a different electrical component in the predetermined state, and the first controller is configured to suspend at least one of the activities related to a change in the first information so as to perform the value conversion.

3. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 2, wherein: The first controller is configured to perform the value conversion in response to receiving a control input from one of the electrical components.

4. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 2 or 3, wherein: This value conversion includes an analog-to-digital conversion.

5. The power supply monitoring device as claimed in claim 1 further comprises: a second detector configured to detect second information related to a temperature of the power supply; and a second controller configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the first information and the second information.

6. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 5, wherein: The second controller is configured to enable the second detector in response to a predetermined condition.

7. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 6, wherein: The predetermined condition includes at least one of a predetermined time interval, a reset operation of one of the controllers, and a user input operation.

8. The power supply monitoring device as described in any of claims 5 to 7, wherein: The second detector includes a thermistor.

9. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 5, wherein: The second controller includes a memory having correction data that correlates the corrected power supply state with one of the complex temperature and complex power supply states.

10. The power supply monitoring device as claimed in claim 5 further includes: a notification device configured to output a notification indicating the calibrated power supply status.

11. The power supply monitoring device as described in claim 1, wherein: The first detector is configured to detect one of the voltages of the power supply as the first information.

12. A power supply monitoring device for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a detector configured to detect information related to the temperature of at least one power supply; and a controller configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the information.

13. An operating device comprising a power supply monitoring device as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, and further comprising: a base member; and an operating member movably coupled to the base member.

14. The operating device as described in claim 13, wherein: The base component includes: a first end portion having a handlebar storage recess configured to be coupled to a handlebar; a second end portion having a rounded head portion; and a grip portion provided between the first end portion and the second end portion.

15. The operating device as described in claim 13 or 14, wherein: The operating component includes a rod that is pivotally mounted on the base component.

16. The operating device as claimed in claim 13 further comprises: a receiving structure including a receiving portion configured to receive the power supply provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member.

17. The operating device as claimed in claim 13 further comprises: a wireless communicator provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member.

18. The operating device as described in claim 13, wherein: The power supply includes at least one primary battery.

19. A control system comprising an operating device as described in any one of claims 13 to 18, and further comprising: at least one component for controlling and responding to the operation of the operating component.

20. The control system as described in claim 19, wherein: The at least one component includes one of a gear changing device, a suspension device, an adjustable seat bar, a braking device, a display device, and a transmission auxiliary device.

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