Electric component for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

This invention discloses an electrical component for a human-powered vehicle. The electrical component includes at least one of an electronic control unit and a power supply, a housing, and a cover. The housing has a receiving area configured to receive at least one of the electronic control unit and the power supply. The cover is configured to be attachably and detachably connected to the housing. The cover has a tool engagement structure configured to engage with a tool for attaching the cover to the housing and for detaching the cover from the housing. The tool engagement structure is further configured to limit the attachment force applicable to attaching the cover to the housing to a lower than the separation force applicable to detach the cover from the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electrical component for human-powered vehicles. Prior Technology

[0002] Human-powered vehicles such as bicycles, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), private boats, and snowmobiles are typically equipped with one or more electrical components to make it easier for the rider to operate the vehicle. Examples of these electrical components include suspension, transmissions (such as derailleurs, internal gear hubs, etc.), operating mechanisms, and height-adjustable seat pillars. These electrical components use power from an onboard power source, such as a battery, which is typically connected via cables to a junction box that is then connected to two or more electrical components via cables. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to numerous features of electrical components for human-powered vehicles. As used herein, "human-powered vehicle" means a vehicle that can be driven at least by human power, but excludes vehicles that use power other than human power. In particular, vehicles powered solely by an internal combustion engine are not included in human-powered vehicles. Human-powered vehicles are generally assumed to be compact, lightweight vehicles that sometimes do not require a permit for road use. There is no limitation on the number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, and recumbent bikes, as well as electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes).

[0004] Considering the state of the known art and according to a first aspect of the present invention, an electrical assembly for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The electrical assembly essentially includes at least one of an electronic control unit and a power supply, a housing, and a cover. The housing has a receiving area configured to receive at least one of the electronic control unit and the power supply. The cover is configured to be attachably and detachably connected to the housing. The cover is provided with a tool engagement structure configured to engage with a tool for attaching the cover to the housing and for separating the cover from the housing. The tool engagement structure is further configured to limit the attachment force applicable to attaching the cover to the housing to a lower than the separation force applicable to detach the cover from the housing.

[0005] By using the electrical component according to the first state, damage to the connection structure between the housing and the cover can be avoided when attaching the cover to the housing.

[0006] According to a second embodiment of the invention, the electrical component according to the first embodiment is provided such that the cover plate includes an outer surface having a tool engagement structure. The tool engagement structure includes a first tool engagement surface extending from the outer surface, a second tool engagement surface extending from the outer surface, and a tool engagement recess defined between the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface. At least one of the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface includes a chamfer adjacent to the outer surface of the cover plate.

[0007] By using the electrical component according to the second state, the attachment force applied to attach the cover to the housing can be easily reduced by providing a chamfer on at least one of the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface.

[0008] According to a third embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the second embodiment, such that a first tool engagement surface includes a first planar portion and a second tool engagement surface includes a second planar portion, the first planar portion and the second planar portion being parallel to each other.

[0009] Using the electrical component according to the third state, a reliable tool engagement surface can be provided for attaching the cover to the housing and removing the cover from the housing.

[0010] According to the fourth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the third embodiment, such that the tool engagement structure further includes a recessed surface located between the first planar portion and the second planar portion.

[0011] Using the electrical component according to the fourth state, a coin can be used as a tool to rotate the cover relative to the housing.

[0012] According to the fifth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with any of the second to fourth embodiments, such that each of the first tool engagement surfaces and the second tool engagement surfaces includes the chamfer.

[0013] By using the electrical component according to the fifth state, the attachment force applied to attach the cover to the housing can be reduced more easily by providing chamfers on both the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface.

[0014] According to the sixth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the fifth embodiment, such that the first tool engagement surface and the outer surface of the cover plate define the first edge of the tool engagement recess, and the chamfer of the first tool engagement surface extends along half of the first edge of the tool engagement recess.

[0015] Using the electrical component according to the sixth state, the chamfer of the first tool engagement and the first tool engagement surface can be easily formed.

[0016] According to the seventh embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the sixth embodiment, such that the second tool engagement surface and the outer surface of the cover plate define the second edge of the tool engagement recess, and the chamfer of the second tool engagement surface extends along half of the second edge of the tool engagement recess.

[0017] Using the electrical component according to the seventh state, the chamfer of the second tool engagement and the second tool engagement surface can be easily formed.

[0018] According to the eighth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with any of the first to seventh embodiments, such that the housing includes a first thread and the cover includes a second thread that is threadedly engaged with the first thread, such that the cover is removably attached to the housing.

[0019] Using the electrical component according to the eighth state, the cover can be easily attached to and detached from the housing.

[0020] According to the ninth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with any of the first to eighth embodiments, such that the first thread and the second thread are right-hand threads, such that the cover is screwed clockwise onto the housing, allowing the cover to be removably attached to the housing.

[0021] Using the electrical component according to the ninth state, the user can easily attach and detach the cover from the housing.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, an electrical assembly for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The electrical assembly includes a housing, an operating member, an electronic control unit, and a light source. The housing includes a light guide. The operating member is disposed on the housing. The electronic control unit is disposed within the housing. The electronic control unit is configured to operate a human-powered vehicle assembly different from the electrical assembly according to user operation. The light source is disposed in the housing and controlled by the electronic control unit to emit light indicating the operating state of the electronic control unit. The light source is configured to emit light onto the light guide disposed in the housing to guide light from the light source in two different directions.

[0023] Using the electrical component according to the tenth state, an electrical component with two light indicators can be manufactured with relatively few parts.

[0024] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the electrical component according to the tenth aspect is provided such that the light guide has reflectivity to light emitted from the light source.

[0025] Using the electrical component according to the eleventh state, light emitted from the light source can be directed to a location visible to the user.

[0026] According to the twelfth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the tenth or eleventh embodiment, such that the light guide includes at least one reflective surface that reflects light emitted from the light source.

[0027] Using the electrical component according to the twelfth state, light emitted from the light source can be directed to a location visible to the user.

[0028] According to the thirteenth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with any of the tenth to twelfth embodiments, such that the light guide includes a triangular reflector that reflects light emitted from the light source in two different directions.

[0029] Using this electrical component according to the thirteenth state, light emitted from the light source can be easily reflected in two different directions.

[0030] According to the fourteenth aspect of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the thirteenth aspect, such that the triangular reflector reflects light emitted from the light source in the opposite direction.

[0031] Using the electrical component according to the fourteenth state, light emitted from the light source can be easily reflected in the opposite direction.

[0032] According to the fifteenth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the thirteenth or fourteenth embodiment, such that the light guide includes a transparent guide plate placed to receive light reflected from the triangular reflector.

[0033] By using the electrical component according to the fifteenth state, light can be appropriately directed to a place visible to the user.

[0034] According to the sixteenth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with any of the tenth to fifteenth embodiments, such that the light source comprises a single light-emitting diode.

[0035] By using this electrical component according to the sixteenth state, the cost can be minimized by using a single light-emitting diode.

[0036] According to the seventeenth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with any of the tenth to sixteenth embodiments, such that the light guide includes a reflective material.

[0037] By using the electrical component according to the seventeenth state, it can be determined that there is good reflection of light from the light guide.

[0038] According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, an electrical assembly for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The electrical assembly includes at least one of an electronic control unit and a power supply, a housing, a cover, and a magnet. The housing has a receiving area configured to receive at least one of the electronic control unit and the power supply. The cover is detachably connected to the housing to retain at least one of the electronic control unit and the power supply within the receiving area. The magnet is disposed on at least one of the housing and the cover to magnetically hold at least one of the electronic control unit and the power supply at the housing and the cover.

[0039] Using the electrical component according to the eighteenth state, at least one of the electrical control unit and the power supply can be easily held in at least one of the housing and the cover.

[0040] According to the nineteenth embodiment of the present invention, the electrical component according to the eighteenth embodiment is provided such that the power supply is provided in the housing area, and the cover is provided with a magnet.

[0041] Using this electrical component according to the nineteenth state, the power supply can be easily held in the cover.

[0042] According to the twentieth embodiment of the invention, the electrical component is provided in accordance with the eighteenth or nineteenth embodiment, such that the electrical control unit and the power supply are separately disposed on the housing.

[0043] Using this electrical component according to the twentieth state, the power supply can be easily replaced as needed.

[0044] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand other objects, features, forms, and advantages of the electrical components of the present invention from the numerous specific embodiments of the electrical components disclosed in the following detailed description, together with the accompanying drawings. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0045] A more complete evaluation of the invention and its many accompanying advantages will become clearer upon referring to the following detailed description and considering the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) including an electric component according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] Figure 2 is a first top perspective view of the electrical component shown in Figure 1.

[0048] Figure 3 is a second top perspective view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0049] Figure 4 is a top view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0050] Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 4.

[0051] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 5, viewed along section line 6-6 in Figure 4.

[0052] Figure 7 is similar to Figure 6 and is a cross-sectional view of the electrical assembly shown in Figures 1 to 6, but the cover and power supply are separated from the housing.

[0053] Figure 8 is an exploded top perspective view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 7, in which the cover and power supply are separated from the housing.

[0054] Figure 9 is a bottom perspective view of the cover plate and magnet of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 8.

[0055] Figure 10 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the cover plate and magnet shown in Figure 9.

[0056] Figure 11 is a top view of the cover plate of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 8.

[0057] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 8, viewed along section line 12-12 in Figure 11.

[0058] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 8, viewed along section line 13-13 in Figure 12.

[0059] Figure 14 is an exploded top perspective view of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 8.

[0060] Figure 15 is an exploded top perspective view of the housing of the electrical component shown in Figures 1 to 8.

[0061] Figure 16 is a top perspective view of the housing and the first housing component of the light guide of the electrical assembly shown in Figures 1 to 8.

[0062] Figure 17 is a top view of the first housing component and the light guide shown in Figure 16.

[0063] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the first housing component and the light guide shown in Figures 16 and 17. Implementation

[0064] The selected specific embodiments will now be explained with reference to these figures. Those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) will understand from the following description of specific embodiments that the following description of specific embodiments of the invention is illustrative only and is not intended to limit the invention, which is defined by the appended claims and their appendices.

[0065] Referring first to Figure 1, according to an illustrative specific embodiment, an electrical component 10 is provided for a human-powered vehicle V. As used herein, "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle that can be driven at least by human power, but excludes vehicles that use power other than human power. In particular, vehicles powered solely by an internal combustion engine are not included in human-powered vehicles. It is generally assumed that human-powered vehicles are compact, lightweight vehicles that do not require a permit for road use. There is no limitation on the number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle V. Human-powered vehicle V includes, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicle V includes, for example, various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, and recumbent bikes, as well as electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes). In the following specific embodiment, the human-powered vehicle V refers to a bicycle.

[0066] As shown in Figure 1, the human-powered vehicle V is a road bicycle, but it is not limited to this type of road bicycle. The human-powered vehicle V mainly includes a frame VB, a front fork FF, a front wheel FW, a rear wheel RW, a handlebar H, and a drivetrain DT. Here, the electric component 10 is installed in the cockpit area of ​​the human-powered vehicle V. In particular, the electric component 10 is exemplified as a handlebar post mounted to the handlebar H of a road bicycle. However, the electric component 10 is not limited to installation in the cockpit area of ​​the human-powered vehicle V. For example, in the case of bicycles equipped with flat handlebars or horn handlebars, the electric component 10 may, as needed and / or desired, be installed near the end of the handlebars or on the handlebar brake. Furthermore, for example, the electric component 10 may, as needed and / or desired, be directly mounted on a road brake or handlebar brake. Furthermore, for example, the electric component 10 may, as needed and / or desired, be mounted on a triathlon handlebar.

[0067] The vehicle body VB also features a height-adjustable seat post SP. The drivetrain DT essentially includes a crankshaft CS, a pair of crank arms CA, a pair of pedals PD, a plurality of front sprockets FS, a plurality of rear sprockets RS, and a chain CN. The crank arms CA are fixed to opposite ends of the crankshaft CS. Each pedal PD is rotatably connected to the distal end of a corresponding crank arm CA. The front sprockets FS are mounted on one of the crank arms CA. The rear sprockets RS are mounted on a rear wheel hub of the rear wheel RW. In a first embodiment, the chain CN runs around the drivetrain DT, the front sprockets FS, and the rear sprockets RS. The driving force applied by the rider of the human-powered vehicle V to the pedals PD is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprockets FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets RS. Optionally, the human-powered vehicle V may include an electric drive unit to assist the rider's driving force. In other words, the human-powered vehicle V may be an electric bicycle.

[0068] Here, the human-powered vehicle V further includes an electric rear derailleur RD for moving the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS, and an electric front derailleur FD for moving the chain CN between the front sprockets FS. The rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD are each operated by a user operating device OD. Although the user operating device OD is exemplified for controlling both the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD, it will be understood from the present invention that each of the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD can be controlled by a separate user operating device. Here, the user operating device OD is an electric brake with hydraulic braking function. The operating device OD, the rear derailleur RD, the front derailleur FD, and the height-adjustable seat column SP are examples of vehicle components, and more specifically, examples of bicycle electrical components.

[0069] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, the electrical assembly 10 is electrically connected to one or more vehicle components via cables EC1 and EC2. The electrical assembly 10 essentially comprises a housing 12. In the illustrated specific embodiment, the electrical assembly 10 further includes a cover 14. Here, the housing 12 and the cover 14 are made of a suitable rigid material, such as a hard plastic material. The cover 14 is configured to be attached to the housing 12 in an attachable and detachable manner. In particular, the cover 14 is provided with a tool engagement structure 16, which is configured to engage with a tool for attaching the cover 14 to the housing 12 and for detaching the cover 14 from the housing 12. Here, for example, the tool engagement structure 16 is configured to receive a coin as a tool for attaching and detaching the cover 14 from the housing 12. As explained below, the tool engagement structure 16 is further configured to limit the attachment force that can be applied to attach the cover 14 to the housing 12 to a lower level than the separation force that can be applied to detach the cover 14 from the housing 12.

[0070] In the illustrated specific embodiment, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cover plate 14 is attached to and detached from the housing 12 using screws. Specifically, the housing 12 includes a first thread 18 and the cover plate 14 includes a second thread 20, which threadedly engages the first thread 18 to removably attach the cover plate 14 to the housing 12. The first thread 18 and the second thread 20 are right-hand threads, such that the cover plate 14 is screwed onto the housing 12 clockwise to removably attach the cover plate 14 to the housing 12. Preferably, a sealing ring 22 is disposed between the housing 12 and the cover plate 14 to provide a waterproof seal therebetween. The housing 12 has an opening 24 that is closed by attaching the cover plate 14 to the housing 12. Here, the first thread 18 is an internal thread disposed on the housing 12 around the opening. On the other hand, the second thread 20 is an external thread disposed on the cover plate 14.

[0071] As seen in Figures 6 and 7, the housing 12 includes a first housing portion 26 and a second housing portion 28. The first housing portion 26 is attached to the second housing portion 28 using adhesives, etc. The electrical assembly 10 further includes at least one of an electronic control unit 30 and a power supply 32. The housing 12 has a receiving area 34 configured to receive at least one of the electronic control unit 30 and the power supply 32. A cover 14 is detachably connected to the housing 12 to retain at least one of the electronic control unit 30 and the power supply 32 within the receiving area. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical assembly 10 further includes both the electronic control unit 30 and the power supply 32. Furthermore, both the electronic control unit 30 and the power supply 32 are disposed within the receiving area 34. Alternatively, the electrical assembly 10 may include the electronic control unit 30 and may omit the power supply 32. In this case, the electronic control unit 30 may receive power via one of the cables EC1 or EC2. In any case, the electronic control unit 30 is disposed within the housing 12.

[0072] The electronic control unit 30 can be described as a circuit including a substrate. The electronic control unit 30 can be defined as a controller or communicating with a controller, capable of receiving / processing / analyzing / regulating / parsing / communication signals. Furthermore, the electronic control unit 30 may include or communicate with a wireless communication unit. Here, the electronic control unit 30 includes one or more semiconductor chips, including a processor 30A mounted on a circuit board 30B (see Figure 15). As used herein, the term "electronic control unit 30" refers to hardware executing software programs and excludes personnel. In any case, the electronic control unit 30 preferably includes a microcomputer with at least one processor (i.e., central processing unit) and at least one memory (i.e., computer storage device). The processor may be one or more integrated circuits with firmware to cause the circuitry to perform the activities described herein. The memory is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, with the sole exception of transient propagating signals. For example, the memory may include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and may include ROM (read-only memory) devices, RAM (random access memory) devices, hard disks, USB flash drives, etc. The electronic control unit 30 is configured to operate a human-powered vehicle component that is different from the electric component 10, depending on the user's operation.

[0073] As seen in Figures 6 and 7, the electrical component 10 further includes a magnet 36. The magnet 36 is disposed at least at one of the housing 12 and the cover 14, magnetically holding at least one of the electronic control unit 30 and the power supply 32 to at least one of the housing 12 and the cover 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply 32 is disposed in a receiving area 34 of the housing 12, and the cover 14 is provided with the magnet 36. For example, the magnet 36 is adhered to the cover 14. The power supply 32 has a magnetic attraction portion so that the power supply 32 is attracted by the magnet 36. Thus, when the user removes the cover 14 from the housing 12, the magnet 36 holds the power supply 32 on the cover 14.

[0074] The power supply 32 is preferably a battery, for example, removably mounted in the receiving area 34. More preferably, the power supply 32 is a button cell battery as shown. However, the power supply 32 is not limited to a button cell battery. The power supply 32 is electrically connected to the electronic control unit 30 via a pair of electrical contacts 38A and 38B provided on the circuit board 30B. Preferably, the electronic control unit 30 is arranged separately from the power supply 32 on the housing 12. Here, the power supply 32 can be removed from the electrical contacts 38A and 38B without the use of any tools.

[0075] As seen in Figures 8 and 13, the electrical assembly 10 further includes an operating member 40, which is disposed on the housing 12. In the illustrated specific embodiment, the operating member 40 is a button that activates a first electrical switch SW1 disposed on the circuit board 30B. The first electrical switch SW1 outputs a control signal to the processor 30A in response to pressing the operating member 40. Here, the electrical assembly 10 further includes an operating member 42, which is a button that activates a second electrical switch SW2 disposed on the circuit board 30B. The second electrical switch SW2 outputs a control signal to the processor 30A in response to pressing the operating member 42. Operating members 40 and 42 are examples of user input. However, operating members 40 and 42 are not limited to the illustrated specific embodiment (i.e., push-button operating members). For example, operating members 40 and 42 may be rotary operating members and / or pull-type operating members. However, in some cases, operating members 40 and 42 may be omitted.

[0076] Please now refer to Figures 11 to 13 for a more detailed discussion of the cover plate 14. As described above, the cover plate 14 is provided with a tool engagement structure 16. The cover plate 14 includes an outer surface 14a having the tool engagement structure 16. The cover plate 14 includes an indentation for receiving a magnet 36. The tool engagement structure 16 includes a first tool engagement surface 51 extending from the outer surface 14a, a second tool engagement surface 52 extending from the outer surface 14a, and a tool engagement recess 53 defined between the first tool engagement surface 51 and the second tool engagement surface 52. At least one of the first tool engagement surface 51 and the second tool engagement surface 52 includes chamfers 51a and 52a adjacent to the outer surface 14a of the cover plate 14. By including chamfers 51a and 52a near the outer surface 14a of the cover plate 14, the attachment force for attaching the cover plate 14 to the housing 12 becomes lower than the removal force for removing the cover plate 14 from the housing 12.

[0077] Here, each of the first tool engagement surface 51 and the second tool engagement surface 52 includes chamfers 51a and 52a. The first tool engagement surface 51 includes a first planar portion 51b, and the second tool engagement surface 52 includes a second planar portion 52b. The first planar portion 51b and the second planar portion 52b are parallel. The first planar portion 51b and the second planar portion 52b define a groove, which serves as a tool engagement recess 53. The tool engagement structure 16 further includes a concave surface 54 disposed between the first planar portion 51b and the second planar portion 52b. Therefore, the tool engagement recess 53 is specifically configured to receive a coin for rotating the cover plate 14 relative to the housing 12.

[0078] The first tool engagement surface 51 and the outer surface 14a of the cover plate 14 define a first edge 55 of the tool engagement recess 53. A chamfer 51a of the first tool engagement surface 51 extends along half of the first edge 55 of the tool engagement recess 53. The second tool engagement surface 52 and the outer surface 14a of the cover plate 14 define a second edge 56 of the tool engagement recess 53. A chamfer 52a of the second tool engagement surface 52 extends along half of the second edge 56 of the tool engagement recess 53.

[0079] Please now turn to Figures 6, 7, and 14 through 18. The notification features of the electrical component 10 will now be discussed. As seen in Figures 6 and 7, the electrical component 10 further includes a light source 60, which comprises a single light-emitting diode. The light source 60 is disposed on the circuit board 30B of the electronic control unit 30. Thus, the light source 60 is positioned at the housing 12. Specifically, the light source 60 is disposed on the side of the circuit board 30B opposite to the power supply 32. The light source 60 emits light based on control signals from the electronic control unit 30. In other words, the light source 60 is controlled by the electronic control unit 30 to emit light indicating the operating state of the electronic control unit 30.

[0080] Here, the housing 12 includes a light guide 62. The light source 60 is configured to emit light onto the light guide 62 disposed in the housing 12 to guide the light from the light source 60 in two different directions. Here, the housing 12 is provided with a first opening 64 disposed on one side of the housing 12, and a second opening 66 disposed on the opposite side of the housing 12. The first opening 64 has a first transparent window portion 68 disposed in the first opening 64. Similarly, the second opening 66 has a second transparent window portion 70 disposed in the second opening 66. The light guide 62 has reflectivity to light emitted from the light source 60. In other words, the light guide 62 is configured to reflect light in a desired direction. For example, the light guide 62 includes at least one reflective surface that reflects light emitted from the light source 60. Here, for example, the light guide 62 includes a first reflective surface 71 that reflects light emitted from the light source 60 in a first direction, and a second reflective surface 72 that reflects light emitted from the light source 60 in a second direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the light guide 62 includes a triangular reflector 74 that reflects light emitted from the light source 60 in two different directions. The triangular reflector 74 includes a first reflective surface 71 and a second reflective surface 72. In this way, the triangular reflector 74 reflects light emitted from the light source 60 in opposite directions. Preferably, the light guide 62 includes a reflective material. For example, each of the first reflective surface 71 and the second reflective surface 72 is coated with a reflective coating as a reflective material.

[0081] Here, the light guide 62 includes a transparent guide plate 76 configured to receive light reflected from the triangular reflector 74. The guide plate 76 is disposed above the triangular reflector 74 and extends toward the first opening 64 and the second side opening. The guide plate 76 may have a different color on each side of the triangular reflector 74; for example, on the right side of the triangular reflector 74, the guide plate 76 may be formed of a transparent green material. On the left side of the triangular reflector 74, the guide plate 76 may be formed of a transparent red material. Additionally, the first transparent window portion 68 and the second transparent window portion 70 may both be formed of transparent materials of different colors.

[0082] In understanding the scope of this invention, the term "comprising" and its variations as used herein are open-ended terms, specifying the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and / or steps, but not excluding the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, integers, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "comprising," "having," and variations thereof. Furthermore, when words such as "part," "section," "part," "component," or "element" are used in the singular form, they may have both singular and plural meanings unless otherwise stated.

[0083] As used in this specification, the following directional terms, "facing the frame," "not facing the frame," "forward," "backward," "front," "rear," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "right angle," and "lateral," as well as any other similar directional terms, represent the orientation of the human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright, riding position with the electrical components installed. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe the electrical components should be interpreted relative to the human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface with the electrical components configured. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" when looking forward from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) relative to the right, and "left" when looking forward from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) relative to the left.

[0084] The phrase "at least one" as used in this invention means "one or more" of the desired selection. For one example, if the number of selections is two, then the phrase "at least one" as used in this invention means "only one selection" or "both selections". For another example, if the number of selections is equal to or greater than three, then the phrase "at least one" as used in this invention means "only one selection" or "any combination of two or more selections".

[0085] Furthermore, although terms such as "first" and "second" are used herein to describe many components, these components should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish components. Thus, for example, without departing from the technical aspects of the invention, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component.

[0086] The terms "connected" or "attached" as used in this specification encompass: configurations in which one component is directly attached to another component, fixing the component to the other component; configurations in which one component is attached to an intermediate component and then to another component, indirectly fixing the component to the other component; and configurations in which one component is integrated with another component, i.e., one component is an integral part of the other component. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as "joined," "connected," "linked," "installed," "keyed," "fixed," and variations thereof. Finally, terms of degree, such as "generally," "approximately," and "roughly" as used in this specification, indicate offsets of modified terms without significantly altering the result.

[0087] Although only selected specific embodiments are chosen to illustrate the invention, this disclosure will enable those skilled in the art to understand that many changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless specifically stated otherwise, the size, shape, position, or orientation of many components may be changed as needed and / or required, even if not for their intended function. Unless specifically stated otherwise, intermediate structures may be inserted between components that are directly connected or in contact with each other without significantly altering their intended function. The function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa unless specifically stated otherwise. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adjusted in another embodiment. Not all advantages need to be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Further descriptions of the invention by the applicant should also consider each feature, independent of prior art, alone or in combination with other features, including the structural and / or functional concepts implemented by such features. Thus, the foregoing description of specific embodiments according to the invention is illustrative only and is not intended to limit the invention, which is defined by the appended claims and their appendices.

[0088] 10: Electrical components 12: Shell 14: Cover plate 14a: Outer surface 16: Tool joint structure 18: First thread 20: Second thread 22: Sealing ring 24: Opening 26: First shell section 28: Second shell section 30: Electronic Control Unit 30A: Processor 30B: Circuit Board 32: Power Supply 34: Accommodation Area 36: Magnet 38A, 38B: Electrical contacts 40: Operating components 42: Operating components 50: Tool engagement structure 51: First tool mating surface 51a: Chamfer 51b: First Plane Section 52: Second tool mating surface 52a: Chamfer 52b: Second plane portion 53: Tool joint depression 54: Concave surface 55: First Edge 56: Second Edge 60: Light source 62: Optical guide 64: First Opening 66: Second opening 68: First transparent window section 70: First transparent window section 71: First reflecting surface 72: Second reflective surface 74: Triangular reflector 76: Guide plate CA: Crank arm CN: Chain CS: Crankshaft DT: Transmission System EC1, EC2: Cables FD: Electric front derailleur FF: Front Fork FS: Front Chain Disk FW: Front wheel H: Handlebars OD: User Operating Device PD: Pedal RD: Electric rear derailleur RS: Rear Chain Disk RW: Rear wheel SP: Seat Post SW1: First power switch SW2: Second electrical switch V: Human-powered vehicles VB: Body

Claims

1. An electrical component for a human-powered vehicle, the electrical component comprising: At least one of an electronic control unit and a power supply; A housing having a receiving area configured to receive the at least one electronic control unit; And a cover plate configured to be attachably and detachably connected to the housing, the cover plate having a tool engagement structure configured to engage with a tool for attaching the cover plate to the housing and for separating the cover plate from the housing, the tool engagement structure being further configured to limit the attachment force applicable to attach the cover plate to the housing to a lower than the separation force applicable to separate the cover plate from the housing; wherein the cover plate includes an outer surface having the tool engagement structure, the tool engagement structure including a first tool engagement surface extending from the outer surface, a second tool engagement surface extending from the outer surface, and a tool engagement recess defined between the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface, and at least one of the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface includes a chamfer adjacent to the outer surface of the cover plate.

2. The electrical assembly of claim 1, wherein the first tool engagement surface includes a first planar portion and the second tool engagement surface includes a second planar portion, the first planar portion and the second planar portion being parallel to each other.

3. The electrical assembly of claim 2, wherein the tool engagement structure further includes a concave surface disposed between the first planar portion and the second planar portion.

4. An electrical assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the first tool engagement surface and the second tool engagement surface includes the chamfer.

5. The electrical assembly of claim 4, wherein the first tool engagement surface and the outer surface of the cover plate define a first edge of the tool engagement recess, and the chamfer of the first tool engagement surface extends along half of the first edge of the tool engagement recess.

6. The electrical assembly of claim 5, wherein the second tool engagement surface and the outer surface of the cover plate define a second edge of the tool engagement recess, and the chamfer of the second tool engagement surface extends along half of the second edge of the tool engagement recess.

7. The electrical assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a first thread and the cover includes a second thread that threadedly engages the first thread to removably attach the cover to the housing.

8. The electrical assembly of claim 7, wherein the first thread and the second thread are right-hand threads, such that the cover is screwed onto the housing in a clockwise manner to detachably connect the cover to the housing.

9. The electrical component as claimed in claim 1, the electrical component comprising: An operating component is disposed on the housing, the housing including a light guide; an electronic control unit is disposed on the housing, the electronic control unit being configured to operate a human-powered vehicle component different from the electronic component according to a user input; and a light source, disposed on the housing and controlled by the electronic control unit, for emitting light indicating the operating state of the electronic control unit, the light source being configured to emit light onto the light guide provided in the housing so as to guide the light from the light source in two different directions.

10. The electrical component of claim 9, wherein the light guide has reflectivity for light emitted from the light source.

11. The electrical component of claim 9 or 10, wherein the light guide includes at least one reflective surface that reflects light emitted from the light source.

12. The electrical component of claim 9, wherein the light guide includes a triangular reflector that reflects light emitted from the light source in two different directions.

13. The electrical component of claim 12, wherein the triangular reflector reflects light emitted from the light source in opposite directions.

14. The electrical component of claim 12 or 13, wherein the light guide includes a transparent guide plate configured to receive light reflected from the triangular reflector.

15. The electrical component of claim 9, wherein the light source comprises a single light-emitting diode.

16. The electrical component of claim 9, wherein the light guide includes a reflective material.

17. The electrical component as claimed in claim 1, the electrical component comprising: A magnet, disposed at least at one of the housing and the cover, magnetically holds at least one of the electronic control unit and the power supply to at least one of the housing and the cover.

18. The electrical component of claim 17, wherein the power supply is disposed within the receiving area of ​​the housing; and the cover provides the magnet.

19. The electrical components of claim 17 or 18, wherein the electrical control unit is disposed separately from the power supply on the housing.

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