DE102020001792A1 - Modular bicycle trainer - Google Patents

Abstract

To enable easier design, shipping, and assembly and upgrade to functional systems, a modular bicycle trainer is provided that divides the components into modules that correspond to the functional systems. The modular bicycle trainer comprises a frame, a drive unit arrangement, a handlebar arrangement, a seat unit and a console.

Description

priority

This application claims the right of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 820.814 , which was filed on March 19, 2019 and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

background

Area of revelation

The present disclosure relates generally to a bicycle trainer and, more particularly, to a modular bicycle trainer.

Description of the related art

Bicycle trainers are known in the prior art and are typically used for stationary indoor training on a bicycle. Existing or known bicycle trainers are sometimes configured such that a user is unable to use his own bicycle with the trainer. Instead, a bicycle trainer can be a single monolithic machine that is pre-assembled and shipped to a user. While such a bicycle trainer requires little or no assembly by the user, delivery is difficult due to the size, shape and weight of the pre-assembled bicycle trainer, and customization and upgrading is difficult due to the monolithic nature of the bicycle trainer. Components such as Base support legs, a display, a handlebar tube, and / or a seat tube can be removed for shipment and a user or technician can install these components after shipment.

Summary

In one example, a drive unit for a bicycle trainer includes a housing, a body rotatably attached to the housing, and an axle rotatably attached to the housing. The axle is operably connected to the body so that the body can be driven via the axle. The drive unit also includes a resistance to movement that is carried by the housing. The resistance to movement is configured to exert a drag force on the body when the body rotates. The drive unit includes a first guide within the housing or carried by the housing. The first tour corresponds to a second tour. The second tour is placed on a frame of the bicycle trainer.

In one example, the first guide includes a plurality of openings through a portion of the frame. The second guide includes a plurality of captive fasteners. The drive unit is positionable on the frame so that the plurality of captive fastening elements extend through the plurality of openings.

In one example, the body is a flywheel.

In one example, the drive unit also includes a wheel rotatably attached to the housing. An axis of rotation of the wheel coincides with an axis of rotation of the axis. A diameter of the wheel is larger than a diameter of the flywheel. The drive unit further comprises a belt or a chain which is placed around the wheel. The axle is operably connected to the flywheel through the wheel and belt or chain.

In one example, the wheel is a first wheel. The drive unit further includes a second wheel that is rotatably attached to the housing. An axis of rotation of the second wheel is in line with the axis of rotation of the flywheel. The diameter of the second wheel is smaller than the diameter of the first wheel and the diameter of the flywheel. The belt or chain is wrapped around the second wheel. The axle is operably connected to the flywheel through the first wheel, belt or chain and the second wheel.

In one example, the drag resistance includes an electromagnet carried by the housing at a fixed distance from the flywheel, a permanent magnet supported by the housing at a variable distance from the flywheel, a generator, or a mechanical drag resistor that is in contact is movable with the flywheel.

In one example, resistance to movement includes mechanical resistance to movement. The mechanical resistance to movement comprises a piston that is movable in contact with the flywheel.

In one example, the housing has first and second sections. The second portion of the housing extends from a side of the first portion of the housing. The first guide is applied in the second section of the housing.

In one example, the second portion of the housing weighs at least as much as the rest of the drive unit.

In one example, the flywheel is attached to the housing on or adjacent to the side of the first portion of the housing so that the flywheel and the second portion of the housing are on the same side of the first portion of the housing.

In one example, the side of the first portion of the housing is a first side of the first portion of the housing. The wheel is attached to the housing on or adjacent a second side of the first portion of the housing. The second side of the first section of the housing is opposite the first side of the first section of the housing.

In one example, the axis extends through at least a portion of the first portion of the housing and at least a portion of the second portion of the housing.

In one example, a bicycle trainer includes a drive unit and a frame. The drive unit comprises a housing, a rotatably attached to the housing, drivable flywheel and a movement resistance carried by the housing. The drag resistance is configured to apply a force to the drivable flywheel. The drive unit also includes a first guide carried within or by the housing. The frame includes one or a plurality of supports and a second guide within or carried by the one or the plurality of supports, the second guide corresponding to the first guide. The drive unit is detachably attached to the frame via the first guide and the second guide.

In one example, the first guide includes a plurality of holes through a portion of the housing of the drive unit. The second guide includes a plurality of captive fasteners extending from a bracket of the one or more brackets. The plurality of captive fasteners extend through the plurality of holes, and the portion of the housing of the drive unit abuts the bracket of the frame when the drive unit is attached to the frame.

In one example the carrier is a first carrier. The one or more beams also includes second and third beams that form a V-shape. The first bracket extends between the second and third brackets so that a length of the first bracket defines a position of the first bracket and the drive unit along the second and third brackets.

In one example, the drag resistance includes an electromagnet supported by the housing at a fixed distance relative to the drivable flywheel, a permanent magnet supported by the housing at a variable distance relative to the drivable flywheel, a generator, or a mechanical drag resistor which is movable in contact with the drivable flywheel.

In one example, the housing has first and second sections. The second portion of the housing extends from a side of the first portion of the housing. The first guide is applied in the second section of the housing. The drivable flywheel is attached to the first portion of the housing on or adjacent to the side of the first portion of the housing so that the drivable flywheel and the second portion of the housing are positioned on the same side of the first portion of the housing.

In one example, a frame for a bicycle trainer includes two brackets, a mounting plate extending between the two brackets, and one or a plurality of captive fasteners extending from the mounting plate. The one or the plurality of captive fastening elements each corresponds to one or a plurality of openings through a housing of a drive unit. The drive unit includes a drivable flywheel rotatably attached to the housing and a drag resistor carried by the housing and configured to apply a force to the flywheel.

In one example, the one or more captive fasteners includes a plurality of captive fasteners that extend from the mounting plate. The one or a plurality of openings through the housing of the drive unit comprises a plurality of openings through the housing of the drive unit. The plurality of openings each corresponds to the plurality of captive fastening elements.

In one example, the two beams form a V-shape. The mounting plate extends between the two beams such that a length of the mounting plate defines a position of the mounting plate along the two beams.

Figure list

• 1 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Beispiels einer Antriebseinheit;
• 2 eine perspektivische Nahansicht eines Beispiels eines Anbringungsabschnitts eines Gehäuses der Antriebseinheit aus 1;
• 3 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Beispiels einer Halterung, die auf einem Rahmenabschnitt eines modularen Fahrradtrainers positioniert ist;
• 4 eine perspektivische Nahansicht eines Beispiels für eine Halterung, die auf einem Rahmenabschnitt eines modularen Fahrradtrainers positioniert ist und Befestigungselemente umfasst;
• 5 eine erste perspektivische Ansicht eines Beispiels einer Antriebseinheit und eines Rahmenabschnitts eines modularen Fahrradtrainers in einem angebrachten Zustand;
• 6 eine zweite perspektivische Ansicht eines Beispiels einer Antriebseinheit und eines Rahmenabschnitts eines modularen Fahrradtrainers in einem angebrachten Zustand;
• 7 eine Vorderansicht eines Beispiels einer Antriebseinheit und eines Rahmenabschnitts eines modularen Fahrradtrainers in einem angebrachten Zustand; und
• 8 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Beispiels eines modularen Fahrradtrainers.

Objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description in conjunction with the figures of the drawings. Show it:

• 1 a perspective view of an example of a drive unit;
• 2 FIG. 14 is a close-up perspective view of an example of a mounting portion of a housing of the power unit 1 ;
• 3 Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a bracket positioned on a frame portion of a modular bicycle trainer;
• 4th Fig. 3 is a close-up perspective view of an example of a bracket positioned on a frame portion of a modular bicycle trainer and including fasteners;
• 5 a first perspective view of an example of a drive unit and a frame portion of a modular bicycle trainer in an attached state;
• 6th a second perspective view of an example of a drive unit and a frame portion of a modular bicycle trainer in an attached state;
• 7th Fig. 3 is a front view of an example of a drive unit and frame portion of a modular bicycle trainer in an attached state; and
• 8th Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a modular bicycle trainer.

Detailed description of the disclosure

The modular bicycle trainer of the present exemplary embodiment separates the components of a bicycle trainer into modules that correspond to functional systems. This enables a lighter construction, easier shipping and simple assembly and upgrading to the functional systems during the life of the bicycle trainer.

Characteristics of the modular bicycle trainer can define the separation of the modules. For example, the driver's touch points and / or the technical interaction can define the separation of the modules. Regarding the rider's point of contact, the rider interacts with the modular bike trainer at a discrete number of points of contact: feet, hands, seat and eyes. The boundaries of the modules can be defined by the technical systems that serve each of the discrete points of contact. With regard to the technical interaction, the modules can maximize the technical complexity contained in each of the modules while minimizing the technical complexity of the interfaces and / or interactions between the modules.

The modular bicycle trainer of the present embodiments may comprise any number of modules, e.g. a frame, a drive unit assembly, a handlebar assembly, a seat unit and a console. The modular bicycle trainer can include more, fewer and / or different modules.

The drive unit assembly includes components that serve to create drag and driving feel on the user's feet. A drive unit includes, for example, a flywheel, an adjustable load device, an electronic control device, one or a plurality of adjustable load sensors, one or a plurality of drive rollers or chain rings, a belt or a chain tensioning device, a belt or a chain, crank arms and pedals. The drive unit can comprise more, fewer and / or different components. For example, the drive unit can also include bearings and cladding. In one embodiment, the drive unit can be of direct construction in which the crank arms drive a flywheel or load unit directly without a belt or chain. In another embodiment, the crank arms can drive the load unit via a gear (e.g. a planetary gear).

The drive unit is attached to the frame in a simple and secure manner. The mounting points and dimensional control of a drive train are contained in the drive unit. The number of fasteners used to fasten the drive unit to the frame is reduced to a minimum. For example, guide pins and / or another positioning device facilitate / facilitate alignment and facilitate the correct installation of the drive unit on the frame for the user.

The frame and drive unit are each heavy (e.g. 40 lb or more each = 18.14 kg or more) and bulky. Due to the modular nature of the bicycle trainer of the present exemplary embodiments, the frame and the drive unit can be delivered separately to the user and can be assembled by the user after delivery. If the modular bicycle trainer is to be moved a non-negligible distance during the life of the modular bicycle trainer, the modular bicycle trainer can be disassembled, moved and reassembled by the user.

Referring to the drawings, FIG 1 a perspective view of an example of a drive unit 50 . The drive unit 50 includes a housing 52 (e.g. a swivel lever) that has a drive 54 (e.g. an axis or a spindle), a load unit 56 and carries one or a large number of other components (cf. 6th and 7th ). The load unit 56 includes, for example, a flywheel 58 (e.g. a rotatable body) that comes with the drive 54 (e.g. directly or indirectly) rotatably coupled (cf. 6th and 7th ) and electronics 60 that are used to control the load unit 56 configured. Pedaled crank arms (not shown) are on opposite sides of the drive 54 attachable so that the user can pedal the modular bike trainer.

The Electronic 60 is eg on a carrier 62 positioned and / or carried by this. The carrier 62 is for example a plate that is detachable from the housing 52 the drive unit 50 is attached. In other embodiments, the carrier is 62 configured in another way. So can the wearer 62 for example a printed circuit board (PCB). In another example, the carrier is 62 a section of the housing 52 .

The plate 62 is attached to the housing 52 the drive unit 50 eg with one or a large number of connectors 64 (e.g. screws and / or nut / bolt combinations) releasably attached. In one embodiment, the plate 62 on the housing 52 the drive unit 50 fixed in such a way that the distances between the from the plate 62 carried components (e.g. a permanent magnet or an electromagnet) and the flywheel 58 can be varied. In one embodiment, the drive unit comprises 50 an actuator (e.g., an electric motor) that is configured to drive the plate 62 and / or a component carried by the plate (e.g., the permanent magnet or the electromagnet) from the flywheel 58 away and to move towards this. In other embodiments, the plate 62 can be detachably attached to other components of the modular bicycle trainer, such as the frame.

The Electronic 60 includes any number of components including, for example, an electromagnet 66 . The electromagnet 66 can use a variety of wires 68 contain that around a core 70 wound from a magnetic material and / or applied to it. The electromagnet 66 is magnetic with a permanent magnet or magnetic material on the flywheel 58 coupled. In one embodiment, the positioning of the electromagnet is 66 and the reverse of the permanent magnet: the electromagnet 66 will be on the flywheel 58 positioned and the permanent magnet is on the plate 62 positioned. In one embodiment, the electromagnet is 66 on opposite sides of the core 70 educated. In another embodiment, there is a plurality of cores 70 (e.g. two cores on opposite sides of the flywheel 58 ) on the plate 62 attached, and a variety of electromagnets 66 is on the multitude of cores 70 educated.

Current flows from a source outside the drive unit and through the electromagnet 66 via a feed line 72 and a connector 74 . The source can be on the wall at a location where the modular bicycle trainer is installed, or it can be a power source (e.g., a battery) on or separate from the modular bicycle trainer. The connection 74 can be connected directly or indirectly (e.g. via one or a plurality of intermediate components) to the source.

In other embodiments the current flows from the external source and is controlled for other types of motion resistors. For example, the current can be controlled in such a way that a motor is activated to set a distance between a permanent magnet on the plate 62 and the flywheel 58 change to a generator with windings on the flywheel 58 or the plate 62 to drive and / or to activate an actuator configured to move a piston toward the flywheel 58 to move.

The electromagnet 66 creates a magnetic field when the source is across the lead 72 and the connector 74 to the electromagnet 66 and power through the multitude of wires 68 flows. The magnetic field works with the flywheel 58 (which is made of an electrically conductive material, for example) and acts on the rotation of the flywheel 58 opposite. The electromagnet 66 acts - when interacting with the permanent magnet or the magnetic material of the flywheel 58 - For example as resistance to movement against the flywheel 58 . This will also stop the rotation of the flywheel 58 rotary coupled drive 54 a resistance opposite. An amount of rotational resistance may be based on power supplied to the electromagnet from the source and / or a distance between the electromagnet 66 and the permanent magnet or magnetic material of the flywheel 58 can be set. In one embodiment, the rotational resistance is generated mechanically. For example, a piston with a felt tip (e.g. the resistance to movement) is in contact with a surface (e.g. a peripheral surface or a radial surface) of the flywheel 58 to the rotation of the flywheel 58 counteract by friction. The amount of rotational resistance can be based on one of the rotational resistance on the surface of the flywheel 58 applied force can be adjusted. Other mechanical resistance to movement can be provided. For example, calipers can Pads against opposite sides of the flywheel 58 press.

In other exemplary embodiments, the rotational resistance can be achieved by a permanent magnet from the housing 52 and / or the plate 62 at a variable distance from the flywheel 58 (e.g. via a servo motor), and / or by a generator with stator windings extending from the housing 52 and / or the plate 62 are carried, and rotor windings by the flywheel 58 be worn, generated. The drive unit 50 can provide rotational resistance in more than one of these ways (e.g. with the electromagnet 66 and the mechanical resistance to movement).

The Electronic 60 can also be a PCB 76 included that from the plate 62 will be carried. The PCB 76 can store and electrically interconnect any number of electronic components, e.g., a processor, memory, one or a plurality of communication devices (e.g., wireless transmitter, antennas), one or a plurality of sensors, and / or other electronic components. The processor may be in communication with electronic components (eg, one or a plurality of communication devices) of a handlebar assembly via the one or a plurality of communication devices. The one or more communication devices of the drive unit 50 can be coupled to the one or the plurality of communication devices of the handlebar arrangement and / or other modules of the modular bicycle trainer before the communication, for example between the drive unit 50 and the handlebar assembly takes place. The processor can measure a power to be supplied by the source and / or the amount of resistance to the rotation of the flywheel 58 determine (e.g. the proximity of the plate 62 relative to the flywheel 58 , the power to be supplied to the motor that moves the piston and / or the power to be supplied to the generator) to be provided on the basis of the data received from the electronic components of the handlebar assembly.

For example, the processor may determine the power to be delivered based on user input (e.g., generated in response to the user pressing a resistance increase button on the handlebar assembly) and instruct a communication device to operate via the PCB 76 is electrically connected to the processor for transmitting the determined power to a communication device (e.g. a wireless transmitter, antennas) connected to the source and / or a control device that is used to control the current to the electromagnet 66 configured. In another example, the processor determines a distance, for example, between a permanent magnet and the flywheel 58 to be provided based on the user input and instructs the communication device to transmit the determined distance to a communication device associated with a control device configured to control the actuator that controls the plate 62 and / or the core 70 emotional. The amount of the rotational resistance can thus be controlled on the basis of user inputs, for example on the handlebar arrangement.

The drive unit 50 is via a fastening section 80 of the housing 52 attached to the frame of the modular bicycle trainer. For example, the rest of the housing forms 52 (e.g. without the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 ) a first section 81 of the housing 52 , and the attachment portion 80 of the housing 52 forms a second section of the housing 50 . The case 52 has an outer surface 82 on from which the fastening section 80 extends. In other words, the second section extends 80 of the housing 52 from a page (e.g. a first page) of the first section 81 of the housing 52 path. The fastening section 80 can with the housing 52 continuously formed or from the housing 52 be attached separately and in any number of ways (e.g. with one or a plurality of fastening elements).

The drive unit 50 can be heavy (e.g. 25-50 lb = 11.34-22.68 kg) and have an irregular shape with a center of gravity in a location offset from the mounting position of the frame. As described below, a bracket for attaching the drive unit 50 on the frame contain captive fasteners (e.g. threaded bolts) or pins that initialize the positioning of the drive unit 50 on the frame with the help of gravity and not by tightening nuts, e.g. on the threaded bolts. Alternatively, the fastening section 80 weigh as much as or weigh more than the rest of the drive unit 50 so that the drive unit 50 can be positioned on the bracket without the drive unit 50 tilts relative to the frame. This can be the attachment of the drive unit 50 on the frame by the user.

According to 2 comprises the fastening portion 80 one or a plurality of openings 84 (e.g. a first guide) to attach the drive unit 50 to further facilitate on the frame. The one or the plurality of openings 84 can be through holes or blind holes. The one or the plurality of openings 84 can be designed with or without a thread.

As in the example of 2 shown comprises the attachment portion 80 four openings 84 that differ from a first page 86 of the fastening section 80 through the fastening section 80 to a second page 88 of the fastening section 80 opposite the first page 86 extend. The drive 54 extends at least partially through the fastening section 80 and at least partially through the first section 81 of the housing 52 . In one example, the drive extends 54 entirely through the attachment section 80 and the first section 81 of the housing 52 (e.g. all the way through the housing 52 ). The drive 54 is for example a spindle, and the ends of the spindle 54 are shaped and dimensioned to facilitate the attachment of pedals to crank arms for the use of the modular bicycle trainer by the user.

The four openings 84 include two first openings 84a adjacent to a first edge 90 and two second openings 84b adjacent to a second edge 92 opposite the first edge 90 . The positioning of the first openings 84a and the second openings 84b is symmetrical with respect to the spindle 54 that extends through the mounting section 80 extends. The fastening section 80 can have more or less openings 84 included, and / or the openings 84 can be relative to each other and / or relative to the first edge 90 and / or to the second edge 92 be positioned differently.

According to 3 can use the openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the openings 94 (e.g. four openings) through a bracket 96 for the drive unit 50 correspond to that of a frame 100 of the modular bicycle trainer. The openings 94 through the bracket 96 at least partially form a second guide (for example with captive fastening elements). The frame 100 of the modular bicycle trainer includes a base 102 and one or a plurality of carriers 104 who / who are from the base 102 extends away. One or the multitude of carriers 104 includes, for example, two carriers 104 facing in directions from the base 102 extend away so that the two supports 104 form a V shape. The two porters 104 can form a V-shape in that the two beams 104 from the base 102 strive away from each other (e.g. with or without mutual contact). A seat assembly can be attached to a first bracket 104a of the two carriers 104 be attached, and there can be a handlebar assembly on a second bracket 104b of the two carriers 104 attached.

The bracket 96 can be configured in any number of ways, e.g. as a mounting plate. The first carrier 104a of the frame 100 , the second carrier 104b of the frame 100 and / or the mounting plate 96 may contain notches and / or the mounting plate 96 can be dimensioned (eg with a certain length) that the positioning of the mounting plate 96 in a predetermined position and alignment (eg with desired tolerances) relative to other mounting positions on the frame (eg for the seat and handlebar arrangement). Once the mounting plate 96 is positioned in the predetermined position and orientation, the mounting plate 96 on the first carrier in any number of ways 104a and / or the second carrier 104b be fastened, for example with one or a plurality of connecting elements (for example fastening elements). Alternatively, you can attach the mounting plate 96 on the first carrier 104a and the second carrier 104b also take place by frictional engagement.

In one embodiment, the first carrier comprise 104a and the second carrier 104b a series of notches at different heights relative to the base 102 . Depending on the height of the notches used in relation to the base 102 can then use mounting plates of different sizes 96 (e.g. with different lengths) can be used. For example, the length of the mounting plate 96 a position of the mounting plate 96 and thus the drive unit 50 along the first beam 104a and the second carrier 104b define.

According to 4th the connector 120 through the openings 94 through the bracket 96 and the openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 extend. When the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 via the connector 120 through the openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 on the bracket 96 is attached, the attachment portion 80 on the bracket 96 issue.

The number of connectors 120 can be equal to the number of openings 94 through the bracket 96 and the number of openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 be. Alternatively, the number of connectors 120 also be smaller than the number of openings 94 through the bracket 96 and / or the number of openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 .

The connectors 120 can contain any number of different types of connectors (e.g. fasteners), including threaded bolts 122 . The connectors 120 may contain captive fasteners that attach to the mounting plate 96 are attached captive (e.g. captive threaded bolts 122 ). Other connectors can also be used 120 be used. Alternatively or In addition to the threaded fasteners, the connectors 120 Contains clamps (e.g., over-center clamps), circular or other geometric locking geometries, quick release mechanisms, guide pins and / or other connectors.

5 shows an example of the drive unit 50 and the frame 100 in an attached condition. In the example shown is the drive unit 50 with the threaded bolts 122 and the threaded nuts 124 on the frame 100 attached. In one embodiment, the include threaded nuts 124 each conical ends (for example similar to a conical union nut on a wheel of a road vehicle), which in the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 intervention. The fastened state, e.g. using the threaded bolts 122 and the threaded nuts 124 , is a rigid attachment. The drive unit 50 does not bend or move outside a predetermined tolerance relative to the frame during the operation of the modular bicycle trainer, even under heavy loads.

During the assembly of the modular bicycle trainer, the user brings the drive unit 50 in a predetermined position relative to the frame 100 by having the drive unit 50 above the mounting plate 96 positioned the threaded bolts 122 e.g. on the openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 aligns and the drive unit 50 like this on the mounting plate 96 that moved the threaded bolt 122 through the openings 84 through the fastening section 80 of the housing 52 the drive unit 50 pass. With such an attachment, the drive unit 50 not sufficiently rigid on the frame 100 for the operation of the modular bicycle trainer attached, but the drive unit 50 is positioned so that it will not tip over or off the frame 100 falls off. The user can then, for example, the threaded nuts with two hands 124 on the threaded bolts 122 mount and the drive unit 50 on the frame 100 fix rigidly.

Based on 6th and 7th includes one or the plurality of other components of the drive unit 50 a major role 140 (e.g. a big wheel) that comes with the drive 54 is rotatably coupled (eg via a direct connection, so that an axis of rotation of the large role 140 with one axis of rotation of the drive 54 matches), and a small role 142 (e.g. a small wheel) that with the big role 140 is rotatably coupled. The little role 142 is with the big role 140 e.g. with a belt or a chain 144 rotationally coupled. The little role 142 is with the flywheel 58 rotatably coupled (e.g. via a direct connection, so that an axis of rotation of the flywheel 58 with an axis of rotation of the small roller 142 matches). One or the multitude of other components of the drive unit 50 can contain any number of additional and / or other components, e.g. an additional role 146 (e.g. a pulley). The additional role 146 is for example with the big role 140 and the small role 142 with the belt or the chain 144 rotationally coupled. The big part 140 who have favourited little role 142 and for example the additional role 146 are through the housing 52 the drive unit rotatably mounted (e.g. via on the housing 52 attached bearings).

In one embodiment, is a diameter of the large roller 140 larger than a diameter of the flywheel 58 and larger than a diameter of the small roller 142 ; the diameter of the flywheel 58 is larger than the diameter of the small roll 142 . The flywheel 58 who have favourited big part 140 and the little role 142 can be made from any number of materials. For example can the flywheel 58 who have favourited big part 140 and the little role 142 made of aluminum. One or more of the flywheel 58 , the big role 140 and the small role 142 can consist of different materials.

All assembly locations, for example the big role 140 , the little role 142 , the additional role 146 , the flywheel 58 , the electromagnet 66 , the core 70 , the plate 62 , the electromagnet 66 and / or other components of the drive unit 50 are located inside the housing 52 or on the case 52 (e.g. the first section 81 of the housing 52 ) of the drive unit 50 . In other words, none of the mounting locations of the large reel, for example 140 , the little role 142 and the additional role 146 are on the frame 100 . These components can be pre-assembled (e.g. before shipping to the user) and thus become part of the drive unit module 50 be. Accordingly, the dimensional control points and tolerances for these components are for the drive unit 50 isolated.

In the in 6th and 7th embodiment shown are the attachment portion 80 and the flywheel 58 on the same page of the first section 81 of the housing 52 created (e.g., on or adjacent to the first page of the first section 81 of the housing 52 ), and the big part 140 who have favourited little role 142 who have favourited additional role 146 and the belt or chain 144 are on the same other side of the first section 81 of the housing 52 created (e.g. on or adjacent to a second page of the first section 81 of the housing 52 that is the first page of the first section 81 of the housing 52 opposite).

The drive unit 50 may contain additional components. For example, the drive unit includes 50 Protective panels that protect the user from injury on the major role 140 , the little role 142 , the additional role 146 , the flywheel 58 and / or additional pinch points. All protective covers and other protective devices can be attached to the drive unit 50 be placed in such a way that all appropriate dimensional controls are in the drive unit 50 are provided.

8th shows an example of a modular bicycle trainer 200 . The modular bicycle trainer 200 of the present embodiments may comprise any number of modules including, for example, the frame 100 , a drive unit arrangement (e.g. the drive unit 50 ), a handlebar assembly 201 (e.g. control strips), a seat unit 202 and a console 204 . The modular bicycle trainer 200 can contain more, less and / or different modules.

The frame 100 includes, for example, two carriers (e.g. the first carrier 104a and the second carrier 104b) , the base 102 including the base support legs 206a , 206b and 206c , a seat tube 208 , a handlebar tube 210 , a console bracket 212 and a holder for electronic devices (e.g. for a tablet or a phone). The frame 100 may contain more, less and / or different components. So can the frame 100 For example, it also contains holders for water bottles and / or training accessories (e.g. for weights). As another example, the frame 100 more or less carrier 104 and / or base support legs 206 and / or other carriers 104 and / or base support legs 206 (e.g. different forms) included.

The frame 100 includes the assembly areas for the other modules. The fastening mechanisms (e.g. the bracket 96 and the fasteners 120 ) for the assembly of the other modules are configured in such a way that the complexity of the assembly is minimized. The frame 100 can be further disassembled to reduce volume during shipping while allowing re-assembly by the user.

The handlebar assembly 201 includes primary interfaces and controls 216 that the user (e.g. the driver) does when riding the modular bicycle trainer 200 used. The handlebar assembly 201 includes, for example, a handlebar bracket 218 (e.g. a fastening mechanism), a handlebar 220 and the controls 216 for the user. The handlebar assembly 201 may contain more, less and / or different components.

In one embodiment in which the handlebar assembly 201 the fastening mechanism 218 includes, enables the fastening mechanism 218 the attachment of the handlebar 220 on the handlebar tube 210 . The fastening mechanism 218 is configured such that the user can use the handlebar assembly 201 can be loosened and reattached quickly and without tools. This enables a large number of users to use the same modular bicycle trainer 200 with a variety of different handlebars 220 (e.g. according to the different users).

The electronic components of the handlebar unit 201 are with the drive unit 50 , the console 204 and / or other electronics connected via wired or wireless communication. The handlebar assembly 201 can be powered by a wired power supply, batteries, and / or other means. Electronic technology and controls for bicycle trainers can evolve over time. The modular structure of the handlebar unit 201 allows the user to control the handlebar unit 201 during the life of the bicycle trainer 200 to a newer generation of handlebar units 201 upgrade with different or improved electronic technology and / or control.

The seating arrangement 202 includes, for example, a seat bracket 222 (e.g. a saddle mount) and a seat 224 (e.g. a saddle). The seating arrangement 202 may contain more, less and / or different components.

The seat support device 222 allows the seat assembly to be attached 202 on the seat tube 208 . The saddle mount 222 is configured so that the user can use the seating arrangement 202 can be removed and re-attached quickly and without tools. This means that a large number of users can use the same modular bicycle trainer 200 with a variety of different seats 224 (e.g. according to the different users). The saddle mounting device 222 can be an angle or a slope of the saddle 224 Maintained between installations as this can be an important setting for driving comfort.

The modular bicycle trainer 200 of the present disclosure, the console 204 included (e.g. with one or a multitude of displays). The console 204 may include, for example, a display screen, a computer processing unit (CPU), and wired or wireless network equipment. The console 204 may contain more, less and / or different components. So can the console 204 for example contain secondary controls for the user, such as a Volume control and / or a power control. The console 204 is attached to the frame 100 attached and powered by an external source or batteries. The console 204 communicates with other electronic systems of the modular bicycle trainer 200 (for example the handlebar arrangement and / or the drive unit) wirelessly and / or via one or a plurality of wire connections.

The illustrations of the exemplary embodiments described here are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various exemplary embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to be a complete description of all elements and features of an apparatus and systems that employ the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon studying the disclosure. Other exemplary embodiments can be used and derived from the disclosure, so that structural and logical substitutions and changes can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the disclosure. In addition, the images are only representative and may not be to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated while other proportions may be reduced. Accordingly, the disclosure and the figures are to be regarded as illustrative, not restrictive.

While this description includes many details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or the subject matter of the claim, but rather as descriptions of features that are specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features that are described in this description in connection with separate exemplary embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single exemplary embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in connection with a single exemplary embodiment can also be implemented in a plurality of exemplary embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and may even be originally claimed as such, in some cases one or a plurality of features may be detached from a claimed combination and the claimed combination may refer to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination be directed.

Similarly, operations and / or steps shown in the drawings and described in a particular order are not to be construed as such that those operations must be performed in the particular order or sequential order shown, or that all of the operations shown must be performed to achieve the desired results Get results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing can be beneficial. In addition, the separation of various system components in the exemplary embodiments described above is not to be interpreted in such a way that such a separation is necessary in all exemplary embodiments, and it should be noted that all program components and systems described are generally integrated together in a single software product or in a plurality of Software products can be packaged.

One or a plurality of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure can be referred to here, individually and / or collectively, with the term “invention” for the sake of simplicity and without the intention of voluntarily restricting the scope of protection of this application to a specific invention or a specific inventive concept, Be referred to. Furthermore, although specific exemplary embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be noted that any later arrangement aimed at achieving the same or a similar purpose may replace the specific exemplary embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any later adaptations or variations of various exemplary embodiments. Combinations of the above-mentioned exemplary embodiments and other exemplary embodiments that are not expressly described here will become apparent to a person skilled in the art on studying the description.

The abstract of the disclosure is prepared in accordance with 37 C.F.R. Section 1.72 (b) and is submitted with the legal opinion that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or literal language of the claims. Furthermore, in the foregoing detailed description, various features may be summarized or described in a single exemplary embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be construed as reflecting the intention that the claimed exemplary embodiments require more features than are expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all features of any of the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Therefore, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own and defining subject matter separately.

It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be interpreted in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and it is understood that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be read as limited to the order or elements described unless otherwise indicated. Therefore, all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the following claims and their equivalents are claimed as the invention.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• US 62/820814 [0001]

Claims (20)

Drive unit for a bicycle trainer, the drive unit comprising: a housing; a body rotatably attached to the housing; an axle rotatably attached to the housing, the axle operably connected to the body so that the body can be driven via the axle; a moving resistor carried by the housing, the moving resistor configured to apply a drag force to the body when the body rotates; and a first guide carried within the housing or by the housing, wherein the first guide corresponds to a second guide and the second guide is applied to a frame of the bicycle trainer. Drive unit after Claim 1 wherein the first guide has a plurality of openings through a portion of the frame, the second guide including a plurality of captive fasteners, the drive unit being positionable on the frame such that the plurality of captive fasteners extends through the plurality of openings. Drive unit after Claim 1 , where the body is a flywheel. Drive unit after Claim 3 further comprising: a wheel rotatably attached to the housing, an axis of rotation of the wheel coinciding with an axis of rotation of the axis, and a diameter of the wheel being greater than a diameter of the flywheel; and a belt or chain tied around the wheel, the axle being operatively connected to the flywheel via the wheel and the belt or chain. Drive unit after Claim 4 , wherein the wheel is a first wheel, the drive unit further comprising a second wheel rotatably attached to the housing, an axis of rotation of the second wheel coinciding with an axis of rotation of the flywheel, a diameter of the second wheel being smaller than the diameter of the is the first wheel and the diameter of the flywheel, with the belt or chain wrapped around the second wheel, and wherein the axle is operably connected to the flywheel via the first wheel, belt or chain and the second wheel. Drive unit after Claim 3 wherein the resistance to movement comprises: an electromagnet carried by the housing at a fixed distance from the flywheel; a permanent magnet carried by the housing at a variable distance from the flywheel; a generator; or a mechanical resistance to movement that is movable in contact with the flywheel. Drive unit after Claim 6 wherein the resistance to movement comprises the resistance to movement, and wherein the resistance to movement comprises a piston movable in contact with the flywheel. Drive unit after Claim 4 wherein the housing has a first portion and a second portion, the second portion of the housing extending from a side of the first portion of the housing, and wherein the first guide is positioned within the second portion of the housing. Drive unit after Claim 8 , the second portion of the housing weighing at least as much as the rest of the drive unit. Drive unit after Claim 8 wherein the flywheel is attached to the housing on or adjacent to the side of the first section of the housing such that the flywheel and the second section of the housing are positioned on the same side of the first section of the housing. Drive unit after Claim 10 , wherein the side of the first portion of the housing is a first side of the first portion of the housing, wherein the wheel is attached to the housing at or adjacent to a second side of the first portion of the housing, the second side of the first portion of the housing of the first side of the first portion of the housing opposite. Drive unit after Claim 9 wherein the axis extends through at least a portion of the first portion of the housing and at least a portion of the second portion of the housing. A bicycle trainer comprising: a drive unit comprising: a housing; a drivable flywheel rotatably attached to the housing; a resistance to motion carried by the housing and configured to apply a force to the drivable flywheel; and a first guide within the housing or carried by the housing; a frame comprising: one or a plurality of beams; a second guide within or carried by the one or the plurality of carriers, the second guide corresponding to the first guide, the drive unit being removably attached to the frame via the first guide and the second guide. Bicycle trainer after Claim 13 wherein the first guide has a plurality of holes through a portion of the housing of the drive unit, the second guide including a plurality of captive fasteners extending from a bracket of the one or more carriers, and the plurality of captive fasteners extending extends through the plurality of holes and the portion of the housing of the drive unit abuts the bracket of the frame when the drive unit is attached to the frame. Bicycle trainer from Claim 14 wherein the carrier is a first carrier, and wherein the one or the plurality of carriers further comprises a second carrier and a third carrier that form a V-shape, the first carrier extending between the second carrier and the third carrier, such that a length of the first carrier defines a position of the first carrier and the drive unit along the second carrier and the third carrier. Bicycle trainer from Claim 13 wherein the resistance to movement comprises: an electromagnet carried by the housing at a fixed distance from the drivable flywheel; a permanent magnet carried by the housing at a variable distance from the drivable flywheel; a generator; or a mechanical resistance to movement that is movable in contact with the drivable flywheel. Bicycle trainer after Claim 13 , wherein the housing has a first and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the housing extends from a side of the first portion of the housing away, the first guide is applied within the second portion of the housing, and wherein the drivable flywheel on the The first portion of the housing is attached to or adjacent to the side of the first portion of the housing so that the drivable flywheel and the second portion of the housing are positioned on the same side of the first portion of the housing. A frame for a bicycle trainer, the frame comprising: two carriers; a mounting plate extending between the two beams; and one or a plurality of captive fasteners extending from the mounting plate, the one or more captive fasteners each corresponding to one or a plurality of openings through a housing of a drive unit, the drive unit including a drivable flywheel rotatably attached to the housing and includes a resistance to movement carried by the housing and configured to apply a force to the flywheel. Frame of Claim 18 wherein the one or more captive fasteners comprises a plurality of captive fasteners extending from the mounting plate, and wherein the one or plurality of openings through the housing of the drive unit comprises a plurality of openings through the housing of the drive unit, the A plurality of openings each correspond to the plurality of captive fasteners. Frame after Claim 18 wherein the two beams form a V-shape with the mounting plate extending between the two beams so that a length of the mounting plate defines a position of the mounting plate along the two beams.

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