Wireless gear shift system for a bicycle

Abstract

System and method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver.

Description

[0001] Title: Wireless gear shift system for a bicycle

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The disclosure concerns a wireless gear shift system for light human powered vehicles, such as bicycles.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Wireless gear changing systems for bicycles are known as such for changing gears on a bicycle without use of a wired connection between a gear control device, usually arranged on a handle bar, and a gear changing device, usually arranged at a transmission such as a derailleur. Usually, pairing is required between the gear control device and the gear changing device to allow wireless communication.

[0006] EP1475302A1 discloses a bicycle gear shift system comprising a rear derailleur and a front derailleur having a motor to displace a chain in axial direction for shifting gears. The system also includes an electronic control unit for generating a signal requesting displacement of the chain. The information transfer between the various components can be carried out wirelessly, for example with the Bluetooth® protocol. Pairing methods for the Bluetooth® protocol, such as using a pairing button on one or either of the devices to be paired, are known per se.

[0007] US9,540,071B2 discloses a wireless control system for a bicycle, including at least one shift unit generating an input signal when actuated and a master control unit transmitting a shift signal responsive to the input signal. A rear derailleur and front derailleur are provided and include a gear changer control unit. The gear changer control units receive the shift signal from the master control unit and controls the derailleur corresponding to the received shift signal. The derailleur includes a button which when actuated causes the derailleur to enter a pairing mode. However, current pairing methods of electronic gear-shifting systems of bicycles are not convenient and friendly enough for general consumers. For example, the consumer needs to read the instruction guides of the electronic gear-shifting system before he can correctly press a specific button on a bicycle component in a specific manner to complete the pairing operation between the bicycle components.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] An object is to improve usability of wireless gear changing systems for bicycles, in particular with respect to pairing of wireless devices thereof. A further object is to provide an alternative pairing method.

[0010] To that end, an aspect provides a method of mutually pairing a wireless gear control device and a wireless gear changing device for a bicycle.

[0011] According to an aspect is provided a method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver. Interrupting or discontinuing the charging operation can provide a useful and simple method for initiating the pairing process. The charging port can be a connector type charging port or a wireless type charging port. Accordingly, the charging operation can be a wired or a wireless charging operation. The wireless charging operation can e.g. be an inductive charging operation.

[0012] Optionally, the discontinuing the charging operation comprises disconnecting an electric charger connected to the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or switching off the electric charger.

[0013] Optionally, the disconnecting of the charger comprises disconnecting the charger from the charging port of the wireless receiver. The disconnecting can comprise unplugging the charger from the charging port in case of a connector type charging port. The disconnecting can comprise moving the charger away from the charging port in case of a wireless type charging port. Alternatively, or additionally, the disconnecting can comprise disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply. The disconnecting can comprise unplugging the charger from a mains electric power supply, or opening a switch between the charger and the mains electric power supply.

[0014] Optionally, the disconnecting comprises opening a switch in a cable from the charger to the charging port, so as to interrupt or discontinue the charging operation.

[0015] Optionally, the detecting the interrupting or discontinuing of the charging operation comprises detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port of the wireless receiver. Optionally, the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts. It is convenient to detect a state change to an absence of a charging voltage for initiating the pairing process.

[0016] Optionally, the disconnecting the charger from the mains electric power supply, or switching off the charger, causes a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal. The charger may e.g. execute a power-down protocol when switched of or unplugged. The power-down protocol can include providing the predetermined signal to the charging port. It is possible that the predetermined signal is sent when the charger is unplugged from the mains, but not when the charger is switched off. Alternatively, it is possible that the predetermined signal is sent when the charger is switched off, but not when the charger is unplugged from the mains.

[0017] Optionally, the wireless gear control device is configured to be mounted to a handlebar for a bicycle. Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises an activator for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command.

[0018] Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode.

[0019] According to an aspect is provided a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver. The charging port can be a connector type charging port or a wireless charging port.

[0020] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a disconnecting of an electric charger connected to the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or a switching off of the electric charger.

[0021] Optionally, the disconnecting of the charger comprises disconnecting the charger from the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply.

[0022] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port of the wireless receiver. Optionally, the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts.

[0023] Optionally, the electric charger is configured to cause a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port upon disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply, and the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal.

[0024] Optionally, the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub. Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a thru axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the thru axle.

[0025] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a wheel axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the wheel axle.

[0026] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a hub shell, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged inside the hub shell.

[0027] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing.

[0028] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing, but fully or largely positioned inside the hub shell.

[0029] Optionally, the wireless receiver that contains an antenna. The antenna can be positioned inside or outside of the hub shell.

[0030] According to an aspect is provided a method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal. Detecting a predetermined acceleration signal can provide a useful and simple method for initiating the pairing process.

[0031] Optionally, the predetermined acceleration signal comprises an acceleration level above a predetermined threshold level (m / s2). Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined acceleration signal comprises a predetermined acceleration at a predetermined frequency, such as within a predetermined frequency band, below a predetermined frequency, or above a predetermined frequency. The predetermined threshold level and / or the predetermined frequency can be chosen such that it never, or at least rarely, occurs in normal use of the bicycle.

[0032] Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined acceleration signal comprises a predetermined acceleration sequence. The predetermined acceleration sequence can comprise a sequence of one or more first periods of an acceleration level above a predetermined threshold level, and one or more second periods of an acceleration level below the predetermined threshold level. Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined acceleration sequence can comprise one or more third periods of acceleration at a first predetermined frequency and one or more fourth periods of acceleration at a second, different, predetermined frequency. The predetermined acceleration sequence can be chosen such that it never, or at least rarely, occurs in normal use of the bicycle.

[0033] Optionally, the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit.

[0034] Optionally, the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

[0035] Optionally, the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a sequence of knocking on the processing unit or the gear shift device.

[0036] Optionally, the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell associated with the gear shift device.

[0037] Optionally, the processing unit is arranged in or on a thru axle associated with the gear shift device.

[0038] Optionally, the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle. Acceleration in the axial direction of the hub shell or the thru axle in normal use of the bicycle is much more limited than acceleration in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. Hence, acceleration in the axial direction can be useful in initiating the paring process.

[0039] Optionally, the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation. The combination of the predetermined acceleration signal and the predetermined orientation can provide a useful way to discriminate an intention to enter the pairing mode.

[0040] Optionally, the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright. Acceleration while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright in normal use of the bicycle is much more limited than acceleration while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially horizontal. Hence, acceleration while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright can be useful in initiating the paring process.

[0041] Optionally, the wireless gear control device is configured to be mounted to a handlebar for a bicycle. Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises an activator for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command.

[0042] Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode.

[0043] According to an aspect is provided a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal. Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit.

[0044] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

[0045] Optionally, the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

[0046] Optionally, the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on a thru axle associated with the gear shift device.

[0047] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a thru axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the thru axle.

[0048] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a wheel axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the wheel axle.

[0049] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a hub shell, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged inside the hub shell.

[0050] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing.

[0051] Optionally, the wireless gear shift system further comprises a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing, but fully or largely positioned inside the hub shell.

[0052] Optionally, the wireless receiver that contains an antenna. The antenna can be positioned inside or outside of the hub shell. Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle.

[0053] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation.

[0054] Optionally, the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright.

[0055] Optionally, the wireless gear control device is configured to be mounted to a handlebar for a bicycle. Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises an activator for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command.

[0056] Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode.

[0057] According to an aspect is provided a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a sensor system for determining a value of at least one parameter, and the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit; wherein the processing unit is configured to receive a signal representative of the determined at least one parameter value from the sensor system, and for, upon detecting a predetermined change in the determined at least one parameter value, causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode.

[0058] Optionally, the at least one parameter is one or more of an acceleration, a velocity, an orientation, a rotational velocity, a rotational acceleration, a voltage, a light intensity, a magnetic field, a sound, and a pressure.

[0059] Optionally, the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined change in a value of a first parameter and at least one second parameter, wherein the first parameter is one of the acceleration, the velocity, the orientation, the rotational velocity, the rotational acceleration, the voltage, the light intensity, the magnetic field, the sound, and the pressure, and wherein the at least one second parameter is at least one of the acceleration, the velocity, the orientation, the rotational velocity, the rotational acceleration, the voltage, the light intensity, the magnetic field, the sound, and the pressure.

[0060] Optionally, the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a first predetermined change in a value of the first parameter, simultaneous with, or sequential with a second predetermined change in a value of a at least one second parameter.

[0061] Optionally, the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined temporal sequence in the detected parameter value(s).

[0062] Optionally, the system further comprises a switch, such as a button, wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined change in the detected parameter value and upon detecting activation of the switch.

[0063] Optionally, the system further comprises a charging port associated with the processing unit, wherein the sensor system is configured for detecting a voltage at the charging port, and wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined drop in the detected voltage.

[0064] Optionally, the predetermined change in the detected parameter value comprises the detected parameter value exceeding a predetermined threshold value. Optionally, the sensor system is configured for detecting an acceleration of the sensor system, and wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined temporal sequence in the detected acceleration.

[0065] Optionally, the sensor system is configured for detecting an orientation and an acceleration of the sensor system, and wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined value of the detected acceleration simultaneously with detecting a predetermined value of the orientation.

[0066] Optionally, the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

[0067] Optionally, the system further comprises a thru axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the thru axle.

[0068] Optionally, the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a value of the detected acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold while detecting that an orientation of a longitudinal axis of the hub shell or the thru axle is upright.

[0069] Optionally, the wireless gear control device is configured to be mounted to a handlebar for a bicycle. Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises an activator for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command.

[0070] Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode.

[0071] According to an aspect is provided a method for use in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a sensor system for determining a value of at least one parameter, and the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit, wherein the method comprises the processing unit receiving a signal representative of the determined at least one parameter value from the sensor system, and, upon detecting a predetermined change in the determined at least one parameter value, causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode.

[0072] According to an aspect is provided a system, mounted on a bicycle, comprising at least one control device to be wirelessly connected to a wireless receiver comprising a processor, which processor is configured to receive at least one signal, and wherein the processor is configured to create a software event to enter into paring mode.

[0073] Optionally, the processor is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a single signal.

[0074] Optionally, the processor is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a combination of at least two signals.

[0075] Optionally, the processor is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a combination of at least two simultaneous signals.

[0076] Optionally, the processor is configured to receive a sequence of signal values and filter the signal values, and to create the software event to enter into paring mode based on similarity of the sequence of signal values with a reference sequence.

[0077] Optionally, the signal received by the processor comes from a single sensor able to create a signal, or signals, or sequence of signal values.

[0078] Optionally, the signal received by the processor comes from at least two different sensors able to create a signal, or signals, or sequence of signal values.

[0079] Optionally, the signal received by the processor comes from a detection of a voltage interrupt.

[0080] Optionally, the signal received by the processor comes from a detection of interrupting / discontinuing a charging operation. Optionally, discontinuing the charging operation comprises unplugging the charging power source.

[0081] Optionally, discontinuing charging operation comprises unplugging the charging power source of an external charger.

[0082] Optionally, the control device is, at least mainly, used to control an electrical actuator.

[0083] Optionally, the electrical actuator is used for changing a transmission ratio of or on a bicycle transmission unit.

[0084] Optionally, the bicycle transmission unit is an internally geared hub transmission system.

[0085] Optionally, the bicycle transmission unit is a derailleur system.

[0086] Optionally, the bicycle transmission unit is a crank gearbox system.

[0087] Optionally, the wireless receiver is mounted on or in a thru-axle.

[0088] Optionally, wireless receiver is mounted on or in a wheel-axle.

[0089] Optionally, the wireless receiver is mounted near or connected to the electrical actuator.

[0090] Optionally, the signal(s) is generated by a sensor(s).

[0091] Optionally, the sensor(s) are one or more of an acceleration sensor, velocity sensor, orientation sensor, rotational velocity sensor, rotational acceleration sensor, pressure sensor, voltage sensor, voltage generating sensor, optical sensor, sound sensor, magnetic sensor, multi axis motion sensor etc.

[0092] Optionally, the control device is configured to be mounted to a handlebar for a bicycle. Optionally, the control device comprises an activator for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command.

[0093] Optionally, the control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode. It shall be appreciated that aspects and options disclosed herein may be variously combined. For example, features described as relating to a method may be correspondingly applied to a device and / or a system, and vice versa. Wireless gear changing devices as described herein are preferably configured to be arranged within a hub for a wheel of the bicycle, in particular to effect a gear change from within said hub. Still, in some embodiments, one or more of the wireless gear changing devices may be configured differently, e.g. to effect a gear change from outside such a hub.

[0094] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0095] In the following, the invention will be explained further using examples of embodiments and drawings. The drawings are schematic and merely show examples. In the drawings, corresponding elements have been provided with corresponding reference signs. In the drawings:

[0096] Fig. 1 shows an example of a bicycle provided with a wireless gear changing system;

[0097] Fig. 2 shows an example of a wireless gear shift system;

[0098] Fig. 3 shows an example of a wheel hub;

[0099] Fig. 4 shows an example of a wheel hub in combination with a thru axle;

[0100] Fig. 5 shows an example of a wireless gear shift system;

[0101] Fig. 6 shows an example of a wireless gear shift system; and

[0102] Fig. 7 shows an example of a system.

[0103] DETAILED DSCRIPTION

[0104] For two components to establish a wireless connection with each other they need to be made aware of each other. This mode of operation is known as pairing mode. After the wireless connection being successfully established between the two components, the connection can be secured by using a long-term key (LTK) as negotiated during pairing. When saving the LTK into persistent memory on both components it can be used to reestablish the connection the next time automatically without going to pairing mode first. Saving the pairing data is sometimes referred to as bonding.

[0105] In pairing mode, transceivers of the components can be used to put one component in transmitter mode (TX) and the other component in receiver mode (RX). The transmitter can transmit so called advertisements to be received by the receiver scanning for them. Hereafter the receiver can sends a connection request to the transmitter. Upon acceptance of the connection request by the transmitter the connection is established and hereafter secured.

[0106] Herein several options for pairing two components are described.

[0107] In a first example, when charging a battery of the first component with an external charger, and then when interrupting or discontinuing the charging operation, the first component will enter pairing mode.

[0108] In a second example, detecting an acceleration, such as an acceleration value or acceleration parameter, or acceleration pattern, of the first component will cause the first component to enter pairing mode if the detected acceleration fulfils predetermined criteria.

[0109] Figure 1 shows an example of a bicycle 1000. The bicycle includes a frame 1002 and a front fork 1005. The bicycle includes a handlebar 1003. A front wheel 1011 is mounted to the front form 1005. The frame 1002 includes a rear fork 1007 having a rear wheel 1013 mounted thereto. A crank axle 1004 is mounted to the frame 1002. Pedals 1017 are connected top the crank axle 1004. A front sprocket 1009 is also connected to the crank axle 1004. The rear wheel is provided with a hub 1022. A rear sprocket 1021 is connected to the hub. In this example, the rear sprocket 1021 is connected to the hub 1022 via a transmission system. In this example, the hub 1022 is an internally geared hub including the transmission having a plurality of selectable transmission ratios. The front sprocket 1009 drives the rear sprocket 1021 via an endless member, such as a chain or belt.

[0110] Figure 2 shows a wireless gear shift system 1 for a bicycle 1000, such as the bicycle of Figure 1. The system 1 comprises a wireless gear control device 2. The wireless gear control device 2 can for example be mounted to a handlebar 1002 of the bicycle 1000. The wireless gear control device 2 can comprises an activator 3 for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command. Optionally, the wireless gear control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode.

[0111] The system 1 comprises a wireless receiver 4 for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device 2. In normal operation, the wireless gear control device 2 can transmit a gear change command to the wireless receiver 4. The wireless receiver will then instruct a transmission, e.g. of the gear change hub 1022, to change its transmission ratio. In Figure 2, the wireless receiver 4 comprises a processing unit 6 configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter a pairing mode. In this example, the processing unit 6 is configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port 8 of the wireless receiver 4. The charging port 8 can be a connector type charging port or a wireless charging port.

[0112] In this example, the processing unit 6 is configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a disconnecting of an electric charger 10 connected to the charging port 8 of the wireless receiver 4, and / or a switching off of the electric charger 10. The electric charger can comprise an on / off switch 12. In this example the electric charger 10 comprises a plug 14 for connection to an electric mains outlet 16. Disconnecting of the charger 10 can comprise disconnecting, such as unplugging, the charger 10 from the charging port 8 of the wireless receiver 4. Alternatively, or additionally, disconnecting of the charger 10 can comprise disconnecting, such as unplugging, the charger 10 from a mains electric power supply 16. The disconnecting can comprise opening a switch between the charger 10 and the mains electric power supply. The disconnecting can comprise moving the charger 10 away from the charging port 8 in case of a wireless type charging port. In an example, the disconnecting comprises opening an optional switch 20 in a cable 22 between the charger 10 and the charging port 8.

[0113] Here, the processing unit 6 is configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port 8 of the wireless receiver. A voltage drop is a change of the voltage, wherein the voltage decreases, e.g. suddenly. In this case, the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts. When the processing unit 6 detects a decrease of the voltage at the charging port 8, such as from a charging voltage, of e.g. 5V, to a lower voltage, such a 0V, the processing unit 6 can initiate a pairing process. Thereto, the processing unit 6 can call a pairing routine from a memory 18 of the wireless receiver 4.

[0114] In an example, the electric charger 10 is configured to cause a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port 8 upon disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply 16. The charger 10 may e.g. execute a power-down protocol when switched of or unplugged. The powerdown protocol can include providing the predetermined signal to the charging port 8. It is possible that the predetermined signal is sent when the charger is unplugged from the mains, but not when the charger is switched off. Alternatively, it is possible that the predetermined signal is sent when the charger is switched off, but not when the charger is unplugged from the mains. The processing unit 6 can be configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal.

[0115] Figure 3 shows an example of a wheel hub 1022. The wheel hub comprises a hub shell 24. A sprocket 2021 is shown. The wheel hub 1022 in this example includes a wheel axle 26, here a hollow wheel axle. In this example, the wireless receiver 4 is arranged in the hub shell 24. It is also possible that the processing unit 6 is arranged in the hub shell.

[0116] Figure 4 shows an example of a wheel hub 1022. The wheel hub comprises a hub shell 24. A sprocket 2021 is shown. The wheel hub 1022 in this example includes a wheel axle 26, here a hollow wheel axle. Here the wheel hub 1022 is shown in combination with a thru axle 28. The thru axle 28 extends through the hollow wheel axle 26 for mounting the wheel hub 1022 to the frame 1002. In this example, the wireless receiver 4 is arranged in the thru axle 28. It is also possible that the processing unit 6 is arranged in or on the thru axle. Alternatives are however possible. The wireless receiver 4 and / or the processing unit 6 can be arranged in or on the wheel axle 26. The system can comprises a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing. The system can comprises a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing, but fully or largely positioned inside the hub shell.

[0117] The wireless receiver 4 contains an antenna 30. The antenna 30 can be positioned inside or outside of the hub shell 24. The antenna 30 can be positioned inside or outside of the thru axle 26.

[0118] Figure 5 shows an example of a wireless gear shift system 1. The system 1 of Figure 5 is similar to the example of Figure 2. It will be appreciated that the charging port 8 is optional in this example. The system may e.g. include an internal power source such as a battery or generator. In the example of Figure 5, the system 1 comprises an accelerometer 32. Here, the processing unit 6 is configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal, the predetermined acceleration signal comprises an acceleration level above a predetermined threshold level (m / s2). Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined acceleration signal comprises a predetermined acceleration at a predetermined frequency, such as within a predetermined frequency band, below a predetermined frequency, or above a predetermined frequency. The predetermined threshold level and / or the predetermined frequency can be chosen such that it never, or at least rarely, occurs in normal use of the bicycle. Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined acceleration signal comprises a predetermined acceleration sequence. The predetermined acceleration sequence can comprise a sequence of one or more first periods of an acceleration level above a predetermined threshold level, and one or more second periods of an acceleration level below the predetermined threshold level. Alternatively, or additionally, the predetermined acceleration sequence can comprise one or more third periods of acceleration at a first predetermined frequency and one or more fourth periods of acceleration at a second, different, predetermined frequency. The predetermined acceleration sequence can be chosen such that it never, or at least rarely, occurs in normal use of the bicycle

[0119] In an example, the processing unit 6 is configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit. For instance, the processing unit 6 can be configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

[0120] In an example, the processing unit 6 is configured to cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of knocking, e.g. with a knuckle or tool, on a part of the bicycle, such as on the frame 1002, the hub 1022, or on the wireless receiver 4, or the processing unit 6. The predetermined acceleration signal can e.g. be representative of a knocking sequence. The knocking sequence can include a plurality of knocks spaced in time at predetermined intervals.

[0121] It will be appreciated that the system 1 of Figure 5 can also be used in the configurations as described in view of Figures 3 and 4.

[0122] In an example, the processing unit 6 causes the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell 24 or thru axle 28. Acceleration in the axial direction of the hub shell 24 or the thru axle 28 in normal use of the bicycle is much more limited than acceleration in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. Hence, acceleration in the axial direction can be useful in initiating the paring process.

[0123] In an example, the processing unit 6 causes the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation. The combination of the predetermined acceleration signal and the predetermined orientation can provide a useful way to discriminate an intention to enter the pairing mode. For example, the processing unit 6 can cause the wireless receiver 4 to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell 24 or thru axle 28 is substantially upright. Acceleration while an axial direction of the hub shell 24 or thru axle 28 is substantially upright in normal use of the bicycle is much more limited than acceleration while an axial direction of the hub shell 24 or thru axle 28 is substantially horizontal. Hence, acceleration while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright can be useful in initiating the paring process.

[0124] Figure 6 shows an example of a wireless gear shift system 1. The system 1 of Figure 6 is similar to the example of Figures 2 and 5. It will be appreciated that the charging port 8 is optional in this example. In the example of Figure 6, the system 1 comprises sensor system 34. The sensor system 34 is configured for determining a value of at least one parameter. The processing unit 6 is configured to receive a signal representative of the determined at least one parameter value from the sensor system, and for, upon detecting a predetermined change in the determined at least one parameter value, causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode. Here, the at least one parameter is one or more of an acceleration, a velocity, an orientation, a rotational velocity, a rotational acceleration, a voltage, a light intensity, a magnetic field, a sound, and a pressure. It will be appreciated that the system 1 of Figure 6 can also be used in the configurations as described in view of Figures 3 and 4.

[0125] In an example, the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined change in a value of a first parameter and at least one second parameter, wherein the first parameter is one of the acceleration, the velocity, the orientation, the rotational velocity, the rotational acceleration, the voltage, the light intensity, the magnetic field, the sound, and the pressure, and wherein the at least one second parameter is at least one of the acceleration, the velocity, the orientation, the rotational velocity, the rotational acceleration, the voltage, the light intensity, the magnetic field, the sound, and the pressure.

[0126] In an example, the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a first predetermined change in a value of the first parameter, simultaneous with, or sequential with a second predetermined change in a value of a at least one second parameter.

[0127] In an example, the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined temporal sequence in the detected parameter value(s).

[0128] In an example, the system 1 further comprises a switch, such as a button, wherein the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined change in the detected parameter value and upon detecting activation of the switch. It will be appreciated that the switch per se does not activate the pairing mode. Activating the switch can e.g. bring the processing unit 6 to a wake state, after which the processing unit 6 can determine the parameter value (and / or detect acceleration, and / or detect interrupting or discontinuing the charging operation). Activating the switch can e.g. have a different function, such as initiating a battery check.

[0129] In an example, the system 1 further comprises the charging port 8 associated with the processing unit 6, wherein the sensor system 34 is configured for detecting a voltage at the charging port 8, and wherein the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined drop in the detected voltage.

[0130] In an example, the predetermined change in the detected parameter value comprises the detected parameter value exceeding a predetermined threshold value.

[0131] In an example, the sensor system 34 is configured for detecting an acceleration of the sensor system, and the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined temporal sequence in the detected acceleration.

[0132] In an example, the sensor system 34 is configured for detecting an orientation and an acceleration of the sensor system, and the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined value of the detected acceleration simultaneously with detecting a predetermined value of the orientation.

[0133] In an example, the processing unit 6 is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a value of the detected acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold while detecting that an orientation of a longitudinal axis of the hub shell 24 or the thru axle 28 is upright.

[0134] Figure 7 shows an example of a system 1 mountable on a bicycle 1000 (see Figure 1). The system 1 comprises at least one control device 2 to be wirelessly connected to a wireless receiver 4. The wireless receiver 4 comprises a processing unit 6 (also referred to as processor 6). The processor 6 is configured to receive at least one signal from a source 36. The processor 6 is further configured to create a software event to enter into paring mode. It will be appreciated that the charging port 8 is optional in this example. It will also be appreciated that the system 1 of Figure 7 can also be used in the configurations as described in view of Figures 3 and 4.

[0135] In an example, the processor 6 is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a single signal. Alternatively, the processor can be configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a combination of at least two signals. The processor may be configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a combination of at least two simultaneous signals.

[0136] In an example, the processor is configured to receive a sequence of signal values and filter the signal values, and to create the software event to enter into paring mode based on similarity of the sequence of signal values with a reference sequence.

[0137] In an example, the signal received by the processor comes from a single sensor able to create a signal, or signals, or sequence of signal values. Alternatively, the signal received by the processor comes from at least two different sensors able to create a signal, or signals, or sequence of signal values.

[0138] In an example, the signal received by the processor comes from a detection of a voltage interrupt. The signal received by the processor can e.g. come from a detection of interrupting / discontinuing a charging operation. Discontinuing the charging operation can comprise unplugging the charging power source. Alternatively, or additionally, discontinuing the charging operation can comprise unplugging the charging power source of an external charger. In an example, the control device is, at least mainly, used to control an electrical actuator. In an example, the electrical actuator is used for changing a transmission ratio of or on a bicycle transmission unit. The bicycle transmission unit is an internally geared hub transmission system, a derailleur system, and / or a crank gearbox system.

[0139] In an example, the wireless receiver is mounted on or in a thru- axle. In an example, wireless receiver is mounted on or in a wheel-axle.

[0140] In an example, the wireless receiver is mounted near or connected to the electrical actuator.

[0141] In an example, the signal(s) is generated by a sensor(s) 34. The sensor(s) can be one or more of an acceleration sensor, velocity sensor, orientation sensor, rotational velocity sensor, rotational acceleration sensor, pressure sensor, voltage sensor, voltage generating sensor, optical sensor, sound sensor, magnetic sensor, multi axis motion sensor etc.

[0142] In an example, the control device is configured to be mounted to a handlebar for a bicycle. Optionally, the control device comprises an activator for generating a gear shift command, such as an upshift command or a downshift command.

[0143] In an example, the control device comprises means for entering into pairing mode.

[0144] EXAMPLE CLAUSES

[0145] 1. A method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver.

[0146] 2. The method of clause 1, wherein the charging operation is a wired or wireless charging operation. 3. The method of clause 1 or 2, wherein the discontinuing the charging operation comprises disconnecting an electric charger connected to the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or switching off the electric charger.

[0147] 4. The method of clause 3, wherein the disconnecting of the charger comprises disconnecting the charger from the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply.

[0148] 5. The method of any of clauses 1-4, wherein the detecting the interrupting or discontinuing of the charging operation comprises detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port of the wireless receiver.

[0149] 6. The method of clause 5, wherein the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts.

[0150] 7. The method of clause 4 or clause 5 or 6 when dependent from clause 3, wherein the disconnecting the charger from the mains electric power supply, or switching off the charger, causes a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal.

[0151] 8. A wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver.

[0152] 9. The wireless gear shift system of clause 8, wherein the charging port is a connector type charging port or a wireless charging port.

[0153] 10. The wireless gear shift system of clause 8 or 9, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a disconnecting of an electric charger connected to the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or a switching off of the electric charger.

[0154] 11. The wireless gear shift system of clause 10, wherein the disconnecting of the charger comprises disconnecting the charger from the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply.

[0155] 12. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-11, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port of the wireless receiver.

[0156] 13. The wireless gear shift system of clause 12, wherein the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts.

[0157] 14. The wireless gear shift system of clause 11 or clause 12 or 13 when dependent from clause 11, wherein the electric charger is configured to cause a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port upon disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply, and wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal.

[0158] 15. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-14, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

[0159] 16. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-15, further comprising a thru axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the thru axle.

[0160] 17. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-16, further comprising a wheel axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the wheel axle.

[0161] 18. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-17, further comprising a hub shell, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged inside the hub shell. 19. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-18, further comprising a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing.

[0162] 20. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-19, further comprising a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing, but fully or largely positioned inside the hub shell.

[0163] 21. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 8-20, wherein the wireless receiver contains an antenna.

[0164] 22. The wireless gear shift system of clause 21, wherein the antenna is positioned inside or outside of the hub shell.

[0165] 23. A method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal.

[0166] 24. The method of clause 23 wherein the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit.

[0167] 25. The method of clause 23 or 24, wherein the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

[0168] 26. The method of any of clauses 23-25, wherein the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell associated with the gear shift device.

[0169] 27. The method of any of clauses 23-26, wherein the processing unit is arranged in or on a thru axle associated with the gear shift device.

[0170] 28. The method of clause 26 or 27, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle. 29. The method of any of clauses 23-28, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation.

[0171] 30. The method of clause 29, as far as dependent from clause 26 or 27, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright.

[0172] 31. A wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal.

[0173] 32. The wireless gear shift system of clause 31, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit.

[0174] 33. The wireless gear shift system of clause 31 or 32, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

[0175] 34. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 31-33, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

[0176] 35. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 31-34, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on a thru axle associated with the gear shift device.

[0177] 36. The wireless gear shift system of clause 34 or 35, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle.

[0178] 37. The wireless gear shift system of any of clauses 31-36, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation.

[0179] 38. The wireless gear shift system of clause 37, as far as dependent from clause 34 or 35, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright.

[0180] 39. A wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a sensor system for determining a value of at least one parameter, and the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit; wherein the processing unit is configured to receive a signal representative of the determined at least one parameter value from the sensor system, and for, upon detecting a predetermined change in the determined at least one parameter value, causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode.

[0181] 40. The gear shift system of clause 39, wherein the at least one parameter is one or more of an acceleration, a velocity, an orientation, a rotational velocity, a rotational acceleration, a voltage, a light intensity, a magnetic field, a sound, and a pressure.

[0182] 41. The system of clause 39 or 40, wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined change in a value of a first parameter and at least one second parameter, wherein the first parameter is one of the acceleration, the velocity, the orientation, the rotational velocity, the rotational acceleration, the voltage, the light intensity, the magnetic field, the sound, and the pressure, and wherein the at least one second parameter is at least one of the acceleration, the velocity, the orientation, the rotational velocity, the rotational acceleration, the voltage, the light intensity, the magnetic field, the sound, and the pressure.

[0183] 42. The system of clause 41, wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a first predetermined change in a value of the first parameter, simultaneous with, or sequential with a second predetermined change in a value of a at least one second parameter.

[0184] 43. The system of any of clauses 39-42, wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined temporal sequence in the detected parameter value(s).

[0185] 44. The system of any of clauses 39-43, further comprising a switch, such as a button, wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined change in the detected parameter value and upon detecting activation of the switch.

[0186] 45. The system of any of clauses 39-44, further comprising a charging port associated with the processing unit, wherein the sensor system is configured for detecting a voltage at the charging port, and wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined drop in the detected voltage.

[0187] 46. The system of any of clauses 39-45, wherein the predetermined change in the detected parameter value comprises the detected parameter value exceeding a predetermined threshold value.

[0188] 47. The system of any of clauses 39-46 wherein the sensor system is configured for detecting an acceleration of the sensor system, and wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined temporal sequence in the detected acceleration.

[0189] 48. The system of any of clauses 39-47, wherein the sensor system is configured for detecting an orientation and an acceleration of the sensor system, and wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined value of the detected acceleration simultaneously with detecting a predetermined value of the orientation.

[0190] 49. The system of any of clauses 39-48, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

[0191] 50. The system of any of clauses 39-49, further comprising a thru axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the thru axle.

[0192] 51. The system of any of clauses 39-50, further comprising a hub shell, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged inside the hub shell.

[0193] 52. The system of any of clauses 39-51, further comprising a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing.

[0194] 53. The system of any of clauses 39-52, further comprising a Non Drive Side, NDS, or Drive Side, DS, bearing, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged on the outside of the NDS or DS bearing, but fully or largely positioned inside the hub shell.

[0195] 54. The system of any of clauses 39-53, wherein the wireless receiver contains an antenna.

[0196] 55. The system of clause 54, wherein the antenna is positioned inside or outside of the hub shell.

[0197] 56. The system of clause 41 or 42, wherein the processing unit is configured for causing entering the pairing mode upon detecting a value of the detected acceleration exceeding a predetermined threshold while detecting that an orientation of a longitudinal axis of the hub shell or the thru axle is upright. 57. A method for use in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a sensor system for determining a value of at least one parameter, and the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit, wherein the method comprises the processing unit receiving a signal representative of the determined at least one parameter value from the sensor system, and, upon detecting a predetermined change in the determined at least one parameter value, causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode.

[0198] 58. A system, mounted on a bicycle, comprising at least one control device to be wirelessly connected to a wireless receiver comprising a processor, which processor is configured to receive at least one signal, and wherein the processor is configured to create a software event to enter into paring mode.

[0199] 59. The system of clause 58, wherein the processor is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a single signal.

[0200] 60. The system of clause 58 or 59, wherein the processor is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a combination of at least two signals.

[0201] 61. The system of any of clauses 58-60, wherein the processor is configured to, e.g. directly, create the software event to enter into paring mode, upon receiving a combination of at least two simultaneous signals.

[0202] 62. The system of any of clauses 58-61, wherein the processor is configured to receive a sequence of signal values and filter the signal values, and to create the software event to enter into paring mode based on similarity of the sequence of signal values with a reference sequence. 63. The system of any of clauses 58-62, wherein the signal received by the processor comes from a single sensor able to create a signal, or signals, or sequence of signal values.

[0203] 64. The system of any of clauses 58-63, wherein the signal received by the processor comes from at least two different sensors able to create a signal, or signals, or sequence of signal values.

[0204] 65. The system of any of clauses 58-64, wherein the signal received by the processor comes from a detection of a voltage interrupt.

[0205] 66. The system of any of clauses 58-65, wherein the signal received by the processor comes from a detection of interrupting / discontinuing a charging operation.

[0206] 67. The system of clause 66, wherein discontinuing the charging operation comprises unplugging the charging power source.

[0207] 68. The system of clause 66 or 67, wherein discontinuing charging operation comprises unplugging the charging power source of an external charger.

[0208] 69. The system of any of clauses 58-68, wherein the control device is, at least mainly, used to control an electrical actuator.

[0209] 70. The system of clause 69, wherein the electrical actuator is used for changing a transmission ratio of or on a bicycle transmission unit.

[0210] 71. The system of any of clauses 58-70, wherein the bicycle transmission unit is an internally geared hub transmission system.

[0211] 72. The system of any of clauses 58-71, wherein the bicycle transmission unit is a derailleur system.

[0212] 73. The system of any of clauses 58-72, wherein the bicycle transmission unit is a crank gearbox system.

[0213] 74. The system of any of clauses 58-73, wherein the wireless receiver is mounted on or in a thru-axle.

[0214] 75. The system of any of clauses 58-74, wherein the wireless receiver is mounted on or in a wheel-axle. 76. The system of any of clauses 58-75 wherein the wireless receiver is mounted near or connected to the electrical actuator.

[0215] 77. The system of any of clauses 58-76, wherein the signal(s) is generated by a sensor(s).

[0216] 78. The system of clause 77, wherein the sensor(s) is one or more of an acceleration sensor, velocity sensor, orientation sensor, rotational velocity sensor, rotational acceleration sensor, pressure sensor, voltage sensor, voltage generating sensor, optical sensor, sound sensor, magnetic sensor, multi axis motion sensor etc.

[0217] Although the invention has been explained further herein using examples of embodiments and drawings, these do not limit the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Within said scope, many variations, combinations and extensions are possible, as will be appreciated by the skilled person. For example, a wireless gear control device may be configured to send a gear change message partly or fully automatically, i.e. partly or fully independent from any active user input, for example in response to a sensor input such as from a sensor associated with the bicycle, e.g. a speed sensor or a torque sensor, and / or from a sensor associated with a rider of the bicycle, e.g. a heart rate sensor or a temperature sensor. Further, wireless devices may be mutually pre-paired, e.g. during production, while still allowing a user to adjust such pairing, e.g. by an unpairing or a re-pairing.

Claims

Claims1. A method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the charging operation is a wired or wireless charging operation.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the discontinuing the charging operation comprises disconnecting an electric charger connected to the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or switching off the electric charger.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the disconnecting of the charger comprises disconnecting the charger from the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply.

5. The method of any of claims 1-4, wherein the detecting the interrupting or discontinuing of the charging operation comprises detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port of the wireless receiver.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts.

7. The method of claim 4 or claim 5 or 6 when dependent from claim 3, wherein the disconnecting the charger from the mains electric power supply, or switching off the charger, causes a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal.

8. A wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device; a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting an interrupting or discontinuing a charging operation at a charging port of the wireless receiver.

9. The wireless gear shift system of claim 8, wherein the charging port is a connector type charging port or a wireless charging port.

10. The wireless gear shift system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a disconnecting of an electric charger connected to the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or a switching off of the electric charger.

11. The wireless gear shift system of claim 10, wherein the disconnecting of the charger comprises disconnecting the charger from the charging port of the wireless receiver, and / or disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply.

12. The wireless gear shift system of any of claims 8-11, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined voltage drop on the charging port of the wireless receiver.

13. The wireless gear shift system of claim 12, wherein the predetermined voltage drop is a drop to zero volts.

14. The wireless gear shift system of claim 11 or claim 12 or 13 when dependent from claim 11, wherein the electric charger is configured to cause a predetermined signal to be sent to the charging port upon disconnecting the charger from a mains electric power supply, and wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined signal.

15. The wireless gear shift system of any of claims 8-14, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

16. The wireless gear shift system of any of claims 8-15, further comprising a thru axle, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on the thru axle.

17. A method for, in a wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, pairing a wireless gear control device with a wireless receiver associated with a gear shift device, the method comprising: a processing unit of the wireless receiver causing the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit.

19. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

20. The method of any of claims 17-19, wherein the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell associated with the gear shift device.

21. The method of any of claims 17-19, wherein the processing unit is arranged in or on a thru axle associated with the gear shift device.

22. The method of claim 20 or 21, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle.

23. The method of any of claims 17-22, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation.

24. The method of claim 23, as far as dependent from claim 18 or 19, wherein the processing unit causes the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright.

25. A wireless gear shift system for a bicycle, comprising: a wireless gear control device;a gear changing hub; and a wireless receiver for receiving wireless control signals from the wireless gear control device, the wireless receiver comprising a processing unit configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter a pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal.

26. The wireless gear shift system of claim 25, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a shaking of the processing unit.

27. The wireless gear shift system of claim 25 or 26, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting that the predetermined acceleration signal is representative of a predetermined acceleration in a predetermined direction.

28. The wireless gear shift system of any of claims 25-27, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in a hub shell of the gear changing hub.

29. The wireless gear shift system of any of claims 25-28, wherein the wireless receiver and / or the processing unit is arranged in or on a thru axle associated with the gear shift device.

30. The wireless gear shift system of claim 28 or 29, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting a predetermined acceleration signal in an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle.

31. The wireless gear shift system of any of claims 25-30, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while the processing unit is in a predetermined orientation.

32. The wireless gear shift system of claim 31, as far as dependent from claim 28 or 29, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the wireless receiver to enter the pairing mode upon detecting the predetermined acceleration signal while an axial direction of the hub shell or thru axle is substantially upright.

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