DE3114767A1 - Bicycle light system - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a bicycle light system which preferably has at least two galvanic elements or cells which are connected in series and output an electrical voltage to at least one load or filament lamp, specifically in particular in accordance with Patent Application P 3106569.4. In the case of such a bicycle light system, the filament lamps can relatively easily burn through as a result of unacceptable overloads so that the illumination required for safety in traffic is no longer possible. So that the operating range for the filament lamps can also be restricted and light is thus radiated over the longest possible period with a comparatively high degree of brightness, it is proposed to assign a limiting device to the load or the filament lamp by means of which device voltage and/or current peaks are kept away from the load or the filament lamp or at least however reduced. <IMAGE>

Description

Bicycle lighting system

(Addition to P 31 06 569.4) The invention relates to a bicycle lighting system, which preferably at least two series-connected galvanic elements or Has cells, which an electrical voltage to at least one consumer submit, in particular according to patent application P 31 06 569.4.

It is well known that due to a bicycle lighting system the discharge characteristics of the galvanic elements or cells used Initially, a relatively high voltage is emitted, which in the course of the load Time continues to decrease. There is a requirement to the connected consumers to provide at least a minimum voltage, otherwise his Functionality can no longer be guaranteed. This is especially the case with one Power supply unit for a bicycle lighting system to ensure that the light bulbs Sufficient voltage is supplied from the headlights or taillights so that sufficient lighting can be ensured and a traffic hazard Driving with light values that are too low is reliably prevented. In addition, there is but also the difficulty that when the voltage of the bicycle lighting system is too high to the consumer or consumers, or incandescent lamps, excessively high overvoltages occur, which can significantly reduce the service life of the incandescent lamps. In As a rule, therefore, several galvanic elements or cells are connected in series, wherein the voltage delivered at the beginning by a predetermined amount above that for the consumer or incandescent lamp permissible nominal value. So at the beginning Overvoltage applied to the consumers decreases according to the discharge characteristics of the galvanic elements or cells, whereby also the electrical resistance of the consumer is to be taken into account. The consumers or light bulbs the bicycle lighting systems have so far been operated in a relatively wide work area, so that the incandescent lamps lit up relatively brightly at first and with decreasing voltage lit up correspondingly weaker. It can be seen that due to the wide Working area the incandescent lamps are supplied with a voltage over time, which is not insignificantly below the nominal voltage of the incandescent lamps.

As a result, for a relatively long period of time, only one obtained comparatively low light output. Since in a bicycle lighting system in usually at least two consumers or light bulbs, namely in the headlights and in the tail light, result in newly installed galvanic Elements or cells difficulties if one of the light bulbs fails. Because of the correspondingly lower load is then on the other incandescent lamp an increased voltage, which shortens the service life.

If necessary, incandescent lamps with increased nominal voltages must therefore be used come into use, the supply voltage being the same after a relatively short time not insignificant will fall below.

The invention is therefore based on the object with a low Cost and manufacturing effort for a bicycle lighting system of the type mentioned to train that an inadmissible overload of the consumer or

Incandescent lamps are definitely avoided. Furthermore, the work area be restricted so that the consumer or the incandescent lamps have a possible emit the light with substantially uniform brightness for a long period of time. The bicycle lighting system should also be safe to operate and the operational conditions be grown.

This object is achieved according to the invention in that the consumption ~ or a limiting device is assigned to the incandescent lamp, by means of which voltage and / or Current peaks kept away from the consumer or the incandescent lamp, or at least be reduced.

The bicycle lighting system according to the invention is characterized by a simple and inexpensive construction, and it is made in a particularly simple manner an inadmissible overloading of the consumers or the incandescent lamps is avoided.

Since high voltage and / or current peaks are kept away, is it is now possible, the consumer or the incandescent lamp in a not inconsiderable to operate a restricted work area. This has the consequence that now the Incandescent lamps over the entire service life of the galvanic elements or cells by far emit the light more evenly. In addition, one will not either to Underestimated extension of the service life of the incandescent lamps guaranteed, since the too high voltage and / or current peaks are cut off, so to speak, and not can reach the consumer or the incandescent lamp.

By means of the bicycle lighting system according to the invention, the above are shown Disadvantages avoided in a particularly simple manner. It should be particularly emphasized that the advantages of the invention in such a bicycle lighting system to bear come at which after falling below the of the named elements or cells output voltage and / or the current flowing through the consumer at least one predetermined minimum value at least one further element or cell is connected in series to the voltage available to the consumer to increase. Especially when switching on a new cell, a relatively high, even if only brief voltage and / or current peaks occur.

In a preferred embodiment, the limiting device is designed as a semiconductor element, preferably as a Zener diode, which the Consumers or the incandescent lamp is connected in parallel, with its cathode with is connected to the positive pole of the galvanic elements or cells. With a such a semiconductor element or Zener diode is the bicycle lighting system according to the invention constructed in a particularly simple and inexpensive manner.

The said semiconductor element or the Zener diode only needs to be Consumers or the incandescent lamp are connected in parallel, including no special Circuit effort is required.

It is well known that bicycle lighting systems are optional or also with additional galvanic elements or

to operate a bicycle dynamo. This also applies to the bicycle dynamo no impermissibly high voltage and / or current peaks on the consumer or the incandescent lamp can reach, it is proposed in a preferred embodiment, that the consumer or the incandescent lamp has a correspondingly designed limiting device assigned. Even with a bicycle lighting system designed in this way, the The disadvantages already explained above are avoided or those already mentioned are avoided Benefits achieved. Needless to say, with a bicycle dynamo excessively high voltage and / or current peaks, in particular due to driving too fast or for example also occur when a light bulb burns out. It is special emphasized that said limiting device at least partially with the Limiting device agrees, which for limiting the voltage and / or Current peaks of the galvanic elements or cells is provided.

The limiting device can thus be implemented in a particularly simple manner fulfill a double function.

In a preferred embodiment of a bicycle lighting system with a bicycle dynamo for alternating voltage, the limiting device has semiconductor elements, preferably two counter-connected Zener diodes. These semiconductor elements or Zener diodes are connected in parallel to the consumer or the incandescent lamp, and a particularly simple circuit arrangement is thus created.

Here, a Zener diode has a double function because it has both those of the galvanic elements or cells as well as those of the one half-waves of the bicycle dynamo occurring voltage and / or current peaks Keeps away from the consumer or the incandescent lamp or dissipates it.

In a preferred embodiment, the nominal voltage is galvanic Elements or cells lower than the nominal voltage of the bicycle dynamo, whereby the Consumers or the incandescent lamp as well as the limiting device or

the Zener diodes to the nominal voltage of the galvanic elements or Cells are matched. In such a bicycle lighting system can thus for Dynamo operation and also for battery operation with the galvanic elements or Cells use the same light bulbs. For a bicycle dynamo is the nominal voltage is usually 6 volts. Commercially available galvanic elements or cells usually have a nominal voltage of around 1.5 volts. For reasons of space and weight but it is not very useful in practice by connecting such elements in series to get to the nominal voltage of a bicycle dynamo in order to get to grips with the elements and the Bicycle dynamo to supply the same light bulbs in each case.

With the bicycle lighting system according to the invention, it is now in particular Easily possible to remove the incandescent lamps from the galvanic elements or from to supply the bicycle dynamo. There are therefore none, as in the past proposed so-called double headlights or double taillights for one Bike required, but the same headlight and tail light can be supplied by the bicycle dynamo as well as by the galvanic elements. For example, it is possible to have only three cells with the total nominal voltage of 4.5 volts to be provided and the incandescent lamps to this nominal voltage to vote. By means of the limiting device, superimposed ones are in a simple manner Voltage values cut off and thus kept away from the incandescent lamps.

In a preferred embodiment, the limiting device or Zener diode, by means of which the galvanic elements or voltage and / or current peaks are kept away, a higher limiting value or breakdown voltage on, as the limiting device or Zener diode, by means of which only the Peak values supplied by the bicycle dynamo are kept away or derived. Because of this asymmetrical design of the limiting device, the cut a half-wave of the bicycle dynamo less than the half-waves with the other signs. It thus arrives as a whole in a particularly advantageous manner a voltage with a lower mean value to the consumers or incandescent lamps. An overload of the incandescent lamps is thus reliable in a particularly simple manner avoided.

In a preferred embodiment, a bicycle dynamo for an alternating voltage of 6 volts is provided and the galvanic elements or Cells have a total nominal voltage of 4.5 volts, the breakdown voltage is the one zener diode in the range of 3.3 to 4.3 volts and preferably at 3.8 volts, while the breakdown voltage of the other zener diode ranges from 1.9 to 2.9 Volts and preferably 2.4 volts.

With such a design of the bicycle lighting system will an optimal adaptation and mutual coordination of the components used achieved.

In a preferred embodiment, the limiting device is connected in parallel to the bicycle dynamo.

This results in a comparatively simple and cost-effective solution Circuit design. In addition, there are also more in the bicycle lighting system Electronic components contained in a particularly simple manner protected from overloads.

A switching device is advantageously provided by means of which optionally the bicycle dynamo or the galvanic elements or cells for Supply of the consumer or the incandescent lamps can be switched on. Such a one Switching device can be easily between the bicycle dynamo and the provide said cells, and they can also be used by the cyclist in a simple manner be operated.

In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle dynamo is a Rectifying element, preferably a diode connected in series. This series connection is connected in parallel to the galvanic elements or cells in such a way that the rectifier element is switched in the blocking direction. By means of the rectifier element is thus a Inadmissible discharge via the bicycle dynamo avoided.

In addition, a separate switching device is used for switching from generator operation to battery operation avoided in a particularly simple manner. There is an automatic switchover if the generator or

The bicycle dynamo is switched on and the cyclist is riding. is If the voltage supplied by the bicycle dynamo is too low, the power supply is automatically switched off of the incandescent lamps are taken over by the galvanic elements or cells. Is however the voltage supplied by the bicycle dynamo is sufficiently high that the light bulbs become also fed by the bicycle dynamo. It should be particularly emphasized that here a continuous transition from generator operation to battery operation takes place without that significant fluctuations in light intensity occur in the incandescent lamps. It a reliable function of the bicycle lighting system is thus always guaranteed, without the cyclist having to intervene by switching on or off. It it can be seen that in this way a good supply under all conditions the light bulbs is guaranteed without the cyclist having to do this got to. The incandescent lamps are regardless of whether driven slowly or is stopped or whether it is driven sufficiently fast, always sufficiently bright to shine. An unnecessary discharge of the cells will not occur either if the drive is sufficiently fast, the generator takes over the supply of the incandescent lamps. On the other hand, however, a discharge is also carried out by means of the rectifier element reliably avoided the bicycle dynamo.

In a preferred embodiment, a switching device is with the galvanic elements or cells connected in series to switch them on or off to be able to.

By means of the switching device, the galvanic elements or Cells are easily separated from the other parts of the bicycle lighting system, so that no undesired discharge can occur.

In a preferred embodiment of the bicycle lighting system, in which Galvanic elements or cells are connected in parallel to the bicycle dynamo by means of a switching device and / or a locking device from the bicycle dynamo caused current flow through the galvanic elements or cells when it is too low Internal resistance of the same throttled or prevented. In the case of parallel connection of bicycle dynamo and galvanic elements there is a risk that with increasing discharge of the cells whose internal resistance is too small, so that a Current flow could occur through the cells and thus the incandescent lamps accordingly less could be supplied with electricity. By means of the switching according to the invention or blocking device, such a current flow is advantageously prevented, so that the power supplied by the generator is fed to the incandescent lamps.

In a preferred embodiment of the bicycle lighting system, in which at least one further element can be connected to the galvanic elements or cells is, the required switching elements have a double function. The switching means or transistors, on the one hand, lead the switching processes to connect on the other galvanic element or the cell and they form on the other hand in cooperation with the rectifier device or diode connected downstream of the bicycle dynamo called locking device. This is a not insignificant simplification and the bicycle lighting system has become cheaper.

In an alternative embodiment, the galvanic elements or cells are assigned a measuring device.

By means of this measuring device, the falling below a predetermined The minimum voltage of the cells is detected and an associated switching device is actuated or a corresponding switching transistor can be made high-resistance. One of those Measuring device is preferably formed from the series connection of a resistor and a Zener diode, so that in connection with the downstream switching transistor a comparatively low circuit complexity is required.

The common connection of the Zener diode and the Resistance, which are connected in parallel to the cells, to two connected in series Driver transistors leads, which via a resistor to the base of the switching transistor are performed, the latter switching transistor connected in series with the cells is.

If the voltage delivered by the cells falls below a specified value Minimum value, a reliable shutdown is achieved in a particularly simple manner of the cells of the bicycle dynamo. It has been found to be particularly useful proved to have a positive feedback resistor from the base of the one driver transistor explained above to the collector-emitter path drs further downstream driver transistor to lead. In this way, a quick and reliable shutdown is guaranteed. If, in addition, a capacitor is connected in parallel to the mentioned positive feedback resistor, in this way, a repeated switching off and on by means of of said switching transistor can be accomplished. If the generator voltage then falls below, for example, when driving very slowly or when parking the bike, one Minimum value, the aforementioned switching off and on causes the light bulbs to flash L1 and L2 reached. The cyclist can easily see that the cells are discharged to the point that they must be replaced.

It is well known that due to the elner bicycle light system the discharge characteristics of the galvanic elements or cells used Initially, a relatively high voltage is emitted, which in the course of the load Time continues to decrease. On the other hand, there is also the requirement that the connected To provide consumers with at least a minimum voltage, otherwise its functionality can no longer be guaranteed. So is particular in the case of a power supply unit for a bicycle lighting system to ensure that Sufficient voltage is supplied to the bulbs of the headlights or tail lights so that sufficient lighting can be ensured and a traffic hazard Driving with light values that are too low is reliably prevented. Furthermore but also exists Difficulty that with too high voltages the bicycle lighting system on the consumer (s), in particular incandescent lamps, Excessive overvoltages occur, which reduce the service life of the consumer or incandescent lamps can reduce significantly. In the known power supply units therefore usually several galvanic elements or cells connected in series, wherein the voltage delivered at the beginning by a predetermined amount above that for the consumer or incandescent lamp permissible nominal value.

The overvoltage initially applied to the consumers decreases according to the discharge characteristics of the galvanic elements or cells, the electrical resistance of the consumer must also be taken into account.

It has been shown that in the galvanic elements or cells a relatively high electrical voltage even after falling below the permissible nominal voltage Amount of energy is stored. However, until now the elements or cells had to be If the voltage drops below the nominal voltage, they are exchanged by a specified amount, otherwise the functional reliability of the consumer is no longer guaranteed was.

The invention is therefore based on the object of a bicycle lighting system to create, in which with a low cost and manufacturing effort the useful life of the galvanic elements or cells is not insignificantly increased will. Furthermore, the b bicycle lighting system should. be designed so that a largest possible Share of the comparatively expensive energy of the galvanic elements or cells is fed to the consumer in order to convert them into light, especially in incandescent lamps. In addition, the bicycle lighting system should be designed such that the submitted Voltage on the one hand does not exceed specified maximum values and on the other hand in their lowest values those necessary for the downstream consumer Minimum values still reached. In conjunction with a bicycle lighting system, the Cyclists are protected from having cells that are already too exhausted or elements that no longer ensure the required minimum values for lighting, can still use the inadequate lane lighting. Furthermore should the usable working area of the cells or elements can be limited in such a way that the required minimum values for the lowest usable voltage output the lane lighting can still be achieved while the highest working voltage so banessen- is that bicycle headlights the prescribed maximum permissible Do not exceed glare values. The power supply unit should also be operationally reliable and be able to cope with the operational conditions.

According to the invention, this object is achieved in that when the value falls below the voltage delivered by said elements or cells and / or the through current flowing to the consumer below at least a specified minimum value, at least one further element or cell in said elements or cells Series is connected to the voltage available to the consumer to increase.

The bicycle lighting system according to the invention is characterized by a simple and inexpensive construction and ensures optimal utilization the electrical energy stored in the galvanic elements or cells used Energy. The bicycle lighting system includes a power supply unit, so that subsequently also and especially the structure of the power supply unit is explained. The authoritative Features and advantages apply accordingly to the entire bicycle lighting system.

- With a small amount of circuitry, switching on a further elements or a further cell if the value falls below the output Voltage below a minimum value extends the useful life of the elements or cells not insignificantly increased. As a result of the connection of the further element becomes its Tension of the elements that have become too low in themselves, of the elements that were initially present output voltage superimposed, so that the total voltage now applied to the consumer An adequate supply of the consumer is ensured and that in the elements or cells still existing amount of energy in a not inconsiderable proportion of the Consumer can be supplied. It should be emphasized that basically for power supply of the consumer only a single cell can be provided, which then a another cell is switched on. The power supply unit according to the invention can without difficulties with discrete components such as transistors, semiconductor elements and resistors, and also in other technologies, especially in IC technology or can also be implemented at least partially by means of a microprocessor.

In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle lighting system is of this type designed that the rest voltage of the or the first connected to the consumer Element or cells and / or said minimum value is greater, preferably at least is greater by a factor of two than the idle voltage of the connected element or the connected cell.

It should be emphasized that in principle only at the beginning a single element can be provided with a certain open-circuit voltage, which a further element is switched on at the appropriate time. Provided both elements have the same open-circuit voltage, it is to be feared that when connecting to the Consumer too high an overvoltage is placed. Provided elements or cells of the same size or with comparable electrical data are used, the specified dimensioning ensures that when the further element or the further cell the voltage occurring at the consumer does not exceed permitted values.

In other words, the one applied to the consumer when it is switched on Overvoltage will not get too big. It should be especially noted that Initially only a single element or only a single cell can be used can, whose rest voltage is suitably greater than the rest voltage of the in element or cell to be subsequently switched on in the manner specified.

The bicycle lighting system is preferably designed in such a way that the One or more elements are switched on one after the other when the total voltage, including the voltage of the previously switched on Elements or cells fall below a specified minimum value. It thus takes place successive connection of cells or elements whenever the total voltage falls below a specified minimum value. In other words, it will be one after the other elements or cells are activated in chronological order whenever the Total voltage applied to the consumer falls below the specified minimum value.

The bicycle lighting system preferably has a reference unit and a Control unit, with the reference unit falling below a predetermined Minimum value can be determined and a control signal is emitted by means of the control unit. Furthermore, switching means are provided which, when said control signal occurs cause the connection of the further element or cells.

The reference unit is used to undershoot a predetermined value Minimum value determined, the minimum value of the reference unit being appropriate Way is fed.

There is thus a comparison between the target value and the specified one Minimum value and the actual value, which as output voltage and / or as through current flowing to the consumer is detected. The reference unit is a control unit assigned, which forwards a control signal to downstream switching means. It does not need to be explicitly mentioned that a voltage measurement is circuitry is usually easier to implement than a current measurement, so that is preferred the voltage delivered to the consumer is detected or measured. As part of the invention also includes a current measurement, especially in the case of a purely ohmic consumer there is a direct and simple relationship between current and voltage.

Advantageously, the reference and control unit become a single functional unit summarized. Commercially available elements such as a voltage sensor can be used for this purpose including voltage discriminator, which when falling below a specified Setpoint generates a signal or, for example, a bistable multivibrator get used.

In a preferred embodiment, the reference unit is the elements or cells connected in parallel.

This can create an additional burden without any particular difficulty of elements or cells can be avoided because the reference unit can have a high Have internal resistance, influencing the flowing through the consumer Stromes can be practically avoided.

The bicycle lighting system t is preferably designed such that the or the consumers with their first connection directly to a first pole of the power supply unit are connected that the second connection of the consumer or consumers optionally via first switching means or via second switching means to the second pole of the power supply unit can be connected, the further element or cell with the second switching means is switched on in series. By the specified arrangement of the switching means, which preferably as semiconductor elements or

are designed as transistors, is a particularly simple circuit Construction achieved. A switchover thus takes place by means of the switching means mentioned of the consumer from the second pole of the cells or elements initially connected on the additional element or cell, the latter in series with the first switched on elements or cells.

The power supply unit is preferably attached to a bicycle or in a bicycle lighting system for use, with the consumer or consumers of the headlights and / or the end light and / or Signal lights (for example Turn signal lights) of the bike. By the connection according to the invention at least of a further element or at least one further cell to the first to Lighting elements or cells used will provide adequate road lighting still guaranteed even if the elements that were initially switched on or cells output voltage falls below a predetermined minimum value. Just In the case of bicycle lights, it is of particular importance that headlights, Tail lights and possibly also other signal lights for one if possible be supplied with sufficient power for a long time. The ones that have become known so far Power supply units did not meet the special requirements because the useful life of the elements or cells used was not long enough. By adding further elements or cells according to the invention, the usable life increased in the manner already explained above, so that over a Sufficient lighting of the bike is guaranteed for a long time without that in this case the service life of the incandescent lamps is inadmissible due to excessive overvoltages Way is decreased.

If you would do all the intended elements or cells from the start connected in series, the voltage would necessarily be much too high at the beginning are in contact with the incandescent lamps, the service life of which would be significantly reduced as a result. On the other hand, due to the connection according to the invention, the Voltage range that can be used to supply the incandescent lamps, considerably reduced. On the one hand, excessive overvoltages are thus avoided and on the other hand there is sufficient tension over a very long period of time, not below the specified minimum value.

Reference and control units are advantageous as a single semiconductor element, preferably designed as a Zener diode. Such a semiconductor or such a Zener diode represent a particularly simple and inexpensive implementation of reference and control unit.

The Efahradlichtanlage is preferably designed such that a Series connection of Zener diode and resistor of the mentioned elements or cells is connected in parallel that the common connection point between Zener diode and resistor through another resistor to the base of a downstream one Transistor is connected and that the collector-emitter path of this transistor connected to the base of an NPN transistor and the base of a PNP transistor is to due to the same switching signal in the said NPN or PNP transistors to cause opposing switching states or switching processes. The proposed Circuit can be implemented in a simple manner with commercially available components. It is of particular importance here that opposing signals are due to the same signal Switching states or switching operations are effected so that the downstream switching means also switch reliably.

The emitter of the transistor, its base with both the zener diode as well as the series connected resistor is connected, connected to the negative pole of the elements or cells, being the collector of the said transistor via another resistor to the positive pole of the elements or cells are connected. Thus reaches the bases of the downstream transistors depending on the magnitude of the voltage delivered by the elements or cells, where the zener voltage of the zener diode provides the switching criterion, either a negative voltage or a positive voltage. With a small Circuit complexity is therefore the connection of the additional element or the additional cell or

the switchover is ensured.

Akkali-manganese cells or cells with a similar one are advantageous Discharge characteristics used to avoid a sudden voltage collapse To reach the end of the discharge time of the cells. Surprisingly, it was found that when using alkaline-manganese cells or cells with a similar discharge characteristic and the connection explained above, a sudden collapse of the voltage is reached at the end of the discharge time.

A special and complex switch-off electronics is therefore not required. This inventive and surprising sudden breakdown of tension is of particular importance when using the power supply unit in a bicycle lighting system. Because of the sudden voltage breakdown, the Cyclists with batteries that are already too exhausted continue to operate their lighting system. The cyclist will feel the sudden, sudden tension breakdown very much Easily perceive, as headlights or taillights are essential within a very short time get darker. The cyclist then becomes his inadequate lane lighting do not continue to use it, but switch to the existing bicycle dynamo.

In a preferred embodiment, the specified Minimum value and the load by the consumer and the construction size of the used Elements or cells coordinated in such a way that the sudden tension collapse at the end of the usable discharge time occurs when the entire Tension including the connected elements or cells close again, preferably slightly below the specified minimum value is. Thus, in an advantageous manner, an optimal utilization of the in the elements or cells stored energy and, moreover, a sudden Voltage collapse is reached when the total voltage exceeds the specified minimum value has reached or has sunk below. The consumer thus survives sufficient voltage is available for a comparatively long time, with a sudden voltage breakdown occurs at the end of the usable discharge time. As stated earlier, the sudden voltage breakdown is related with a bicycle lighting system of particular importance, since in this way without one complex switch-off electronics, however, utilizing and optimally coordinating the mentioned parameters and influencing variables an abrupt reduction of the transmitted Light enters. The cyclist is then not even with an impermissibly weak or if the lighting is getting weaker and weaker, but if necessary switch on the bicycle dynamo.

In a preferred embodiment the power supply unit is at least one contact, which with a pole, preferably the plus pole of an element or a cell to be connected, in shape and / or size and / or material such designed that an electrical connection only to a given element or cell type can be produced.

In this way, a code key is created without any special effort, to only very specific types of cells or elements in the power supply unit to be able to send in. So the plus pole of an Aliali-Manganese cell is in its center higher than normal brownstone cells. For example, at an alkaline-manganese cell of type LR 20 the middle positive pole one Diameter of about 8.5 mm and a height of about 4 to 4.5 mm. With conventional Brownstone cells or zinc chloride cells, this height is only about 2.5 mm, the diameter again being 8.5 mm. Because of the proposed training of the Xontakt is guaranteed without any special effort that into the power supply unit for example, only alkaline monocells can be used.

To in a simple way the exclusive use of alkaline manganese cells Ensure in a power supply unit is preferred to at least at least one insulating piece is arranged on a contact of the power supply unit, its height above the contact area between the height H1 of an alkaline cell and the height H2 of a conventional cell.

In a preferred embodiment, said insulating piece is substantially U-shaped in plan view in the direction of the axis of the cell to be used educated. It goes without saying that the opening between the legs of the U-shaped insulating piece is arranged such that the cell in the direction of said opening in the power supply unit can be used. The insertion of cells other than alkaline manganese cells is thus prevented in a simple manner.

With alkaline cells are called alkaline manganese cells, which usually have the IEC designation LR.

In a preferred embodiment, the consumer is which is preferably designed as a headlight bulb of a bicycle headlight, an electronics assigned, by means of which when falling below a predetermined Minimum value of the voltage delivered to the consumer, a signal, in particular an optical signal is emitted. Thus, in a simple manner, for example The cyclist is protected from having to deal with elements that are already too exhausted or cells that no longer ensure the minimum values of lighting, continues. When the signal occurs, the cyclist may become a dynamo switch on or replace the cells or elements. Traffic safety will thus not insignificantly increased according to the invention in a simple manner.

In a preferred embodiment, the electronics are designed in such a way that that said signal is emitted as a flashing signal from the consumer. With others Words, when falling below a predetermined minimum value, in particular with the light bulb of the headlight emitted a flashing signal, so that the already existing incandescent lamp can be used and no further signaling devices required are. Such electronics are characterized by a special one simple and inexpensive construction.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one further consumer is which is preferably the bulb of a bicycle rear light, with the cells or Elements connected in series and at the same time also the above-mentioned signal giving electronics connected in parallel. The other one mentioned consumer thus places a permanent load on the elements or

Cells represent, so that in a preferred manner after a first undershoot the specified minimum value of the output voltage, this voltage practically will no longer increase. An otherwise rapid switching on and off of the first consumer, this process being gradual in the case of an incandescent lamp Would be perceived weaker is thus avoided in a simple manner. If the other consumer is used as an incandescent lamp in the rear light of a bicycle, a safety function is also fulfilled, since the taillight also then continues to burn when the first consumer or the bulb of the headlight is already switched off.

In a preferred embodiment of the electronics, after falling below the specified minimum value of the signal is issued for a certain period of time, wherein after a period of time the power supply or the elements or cells is switched off by the first consumer. Because of the relationships explained above becomes the first consumer after falling below the specified minimum value for the first time operated as a flashing light, so to speak, causing a further discharge of the Elements or cells takes place. Is now the one given off by the elements or cells If the voltage has dropped even further by a specified amount, a new The first consumer can no longer be switched on and it therefore remains advantageously finally switched off from the elements or cells.

A preferred embodiment is characterized in that a Series connection of a Zener diode and a resistor for the elements or cells is connected in parallel that the common connection of Zener diode and resistor is led to two driver transistors connected in series, which over another resistor are led to the base of a switching transistor, wherein the switching transistor a consumer prefers the incandescent lamp of a bicycle headlight turns on and off. The circuit complexity for such electronics is extremely low and ensures reliable switching on and off of the consumer, as soon as the voltage delivered by the elements or cells has reached a predetermined level Value falls below.

The base of the downstream of the Zener diode and the resistor is advantageous Transistor via one positive feedback resistor to the collector-emitter path of the further transistor switched The two transistors mentioned thus represent Driver transistors, whose signal behavior is determined by the positive feedback resistor is influenced in an advantageous manner so that a reliable switching of the downstream switching transistor is made possible.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the above-mentioned Positive feedback resistor a capacitor connected in parallel to after a first If the voltage falls below the specified minimum value, the consumer resp. make the lightbulb blink. It is thus only in the simplest possible way created by means of an additional capacitor, a delay element with which a delayed renewed one Activation of the consumer achieved will. However, because the consumer is switched on again, the from decreases again the voltage delivered to the elements or cells, 8o that a renewed shutdown will take place. These processes repeat fisch with given time constants, and the consumer or

the incandescent lamp flashes until the elements or cells are discharged to such an extent are that they can no longer be switched on again.

In an advantageous, alternative embodiment, an optical Display, in particular a light-emitting diode, is provided to indicate that a predetermined value is not reached Display the minimum value of the voltage. It should be emphasized that this minimum value can also be a different, expediently higher minimum value than that at which the consumer switches off or flashes. So in particular becomes a Cyclists are made aware in good time that the useful life of the used Elements or cells are coming to an end. In addition, the named Minimum values must be at least approximately the same size, without this affecting the frame the invention is abandoned.

So that when using the power supply unit according to the invention, especially in a bicycle lighting system, the cyclist has the option of choice, when he wants to ride with a dynamo-powered bicycle light and when he wants to To reduce the physical strain, only drive with battery-operated lighting switching electronics is advantageously provided.

In addition, the switching electronics should ensure that that when the dynamo is switched on and when driving too slowly or when standing still, a Stand lighting is ensured.

According to the invention, switching electronics are provided by means of which the consumers or incandescent lamps from the elements or cells can be switched off or these Can be switched on if the from a generator, in particular a bicycle dynamo The voltage supplied exceeds or falls below a specified value. Means the switching electronics is thus also in an advantageous manner. the useful life of the elements or cells extended, as these are switched off during normal driving and the power to the consumer or incandescent lamps is carried out by the generator.

In a preferred embodiment, the switching electronics have a the generator downstream reference unit, this switching means connected downstream are, by means of which the consumers or incandescent lamps from the elements or cells can be switched off or switched on. By means of the reference unit, which the If the voltage exceeds or falls below the specified value, the downstream Switching means controlled so that the consumers of the elements or cells can be switched off. The reference unit can, for example be designed as a well-known voltage discriminator, which a reference value corresponding to the predetermined value is supplied for switching. A digital yes-no decision is thus carried out by the reference unit and actuated the downstream switching means accordingly.

A preferred embodiment of the switching electronics is characterized by that the generator of a series circuit, a Zener diode and a resistor, is preferably connected downstream with the interposition of a rectifier that the common one Connection point of the enerdiode and the resistor is led to the base of a transistor and that the latter transistor preferably a switching transistor with the interposition of driver transistors is connected downstream, the switching transistor together with the consumers or

Incandescent lamps connected in series with the elements or cells. Switching electronics constructed in this way can therefore be made with commercially available components Manufacture inexpensively and without special effort. Beyond that there are none particular difficulties, depending on the cells or elements used or their output voltage and in connection with the generator used or bicycle dynamo to carry out an optimal adjustment. This is special Meaning that the elements or cells are practically not stressed as long as the generator provides the consumers with sufficient voltage. The switching electronics built up in this way advantageously switch one with elements or cells or battery-operated bicycle lights that are used for Dynamo-operated lighting meets the prescribed minimum luminous intensity. To the Cyclists are therefore left with the entire generator or bicycle dynamo switch off, for example, when driving up a mountain. The switched on Switch-on electronics will then operate the bicycle lighting system with batteries the dynamo is put on again, so that traffic safety is in any case is guaranteed.

In the switching electronics explained above, preference is given to between the Base of the transistor, which is the series connection of Zener diode and resistor is connected downstream, and the collector-emitter path of the switching transistor on Positive feedback resistor switched. The mentioned positive feedback resistor guaranteed in a preferred manner a safe switching of the switching transistor. The switching transistor is thus either fully controlled or blocked. A high power dissipation in the switching transistor is avoided in an advantageous manner.

In a preferred embodiment, the switching electronics are by means of which consumer of elements or cells can be switched off or switched on are, and an additional electronics, by means of which when falling below the of the Elements or cells output voltage and / or the voltage flowing through the consumer Current below at least one predetermined minimum value at least one more Element or cell is connected to the named elements or cells in series, connected with each other. Such a combination results in considerable Advantages with regard to the service life of the elements or cells used. During normal operation or driving.

the necessary voltage is supplied by the generator.

If this voltage is no longer sufficient, the switching electronics switched to at least one first element or cell. Now that of the sinks elements mentioned or the voltage delivered to the cells due to the consumer below a given value, at least one additional element or cell is used switched on and it is now, as described in detail above, a sufficient Voltage made available, with the elements initially switched on or residual energy contained in cells is utilized according to the invention.

It should be emphasized at this point that in the frame of the present invention, the electronic units explained above with one another be connected and combined.

It can thus be done in a simple manner by simply joining them together respectively. Combine the respective requirements and boundary conditions.> In optimal Wise coordinated and fulfilled.

Further features and advantages essential to the invention emerge from the exemplary embodiments explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing.

1 shows a block diagram of a .Farradlicmtanlage Switch-on electronics, Fig. 2 is a circuit diagram of a 'bicycle lighting system, with discrete electronic components are used, Fig. 4 is a view of a contact, to which an insulating piece is assigned, FIG. 3 the discharge curves of three in series switched mono cells LR20 at a load of about 9 ohms, after about 14 hours a further mono cell is switched on by means of the switching electronics, 5 shows a circuit diagram of a power supply unit with switching electronics, 6 shows a circuit diagram of a power supply unit with electronics for switching or switching on a generator, FIG. 7 shows the circuit arrangement of a combination from the connection electronics according to FIG. 2 and the electronics according to FIG. 6.

8 shows a bicycle lighting system similar to FIG. 2, but with Zener diodes the incandescent lamps are connected in parallel, Fig. 9 a bicycle lighting system, the dynamo two Zener diodes are connected in parallel, FIG. 10 is a basic circuit diagram of a bicycle lighting system with dynamo and galvanic elements or cells connected in parallel, Fig. 11 a circuit diagram of a bicycle lighting system, according to the combination of circuits 8 and 10, FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram of a bicycle lighting system with an electronic switch-off, with which a current flow of the bicycle dynamo via cells that have become low-resistance automatically is prevented.

In Fig. 1 a block diagram of a bicycle lighting system is shown. Two alkaline monocells B1, B2 are provided, their positive poles with 2 and 4 and which are connected in series in the manner indicated. the Monocells B1, B2 are connected via a line 6 to the first connection 8 of a consumer L1 connected, which is designed as an incandescent lamp. The negative pole is higher a further line 10 and switching means 12, 14, 16 with the second connection 18 of the consumer L1 connected. In the illustrated switching position of the switching means 12, 14, 16, the consumer L1 is therefore exclusively via the mono cells B1, B2 supplied with voltage. There are further mono cells B4, B5, B6 provided which are connected in series with each other, with the common connection points to the switching means 12, 14, 16 are performed. The mono cells B4, BS, B6 deliver however, no voltage is applied to the switching means in the position shown the consumer L1.

The consumer L1 or the series-connected mono cells B1, B2 a reference unit 20 is connected in parallel, which has a predetermined minimum value U1 is entered. The reference unit 20 is used to determine whether the The voltage U2 delivered to the mono cells B1, B2 or applied to the consumer L1 falls below specified minimum value Ul or not. The minimum value U1 is such specified that proper functioning of the consumer L1 is guaranteed. Provided that the consumer L1 and possibly in a bicycle lighting system also other consumers through the bulbs of the front headlights and rear lights or flashing lights are formed, the minimum value U1 is specified in such a way that the prescribed minimum values for lighting are observed. Falls below the voltage output U2 the specified minimum value U1, so a corresponding signal is fed to the downstream control unit 22. The control unit 22, which is designed in particular as a ring counter, supplies now a first control signal S1 to the switching means 12. Thereupon, as dash-dotted lines indicated, a switch made so that now the mono cell B4 is connected in series with the mono cells B1 and B2. By activating the Monocell B4 now has a correspondingly increased voltage at consumer L1 again, which a sufficient supply or a sufficient current flow guaranteed by the consumer L1. It should be particularly emphasized that after when the mono cell B4 is switched on, the mono cells B1, B2 are still used for power supply contribute, although the sums from B1 and B2 no longer contribute to adequate care of the consumer L1 would be sufficient. The ones still contained in the mono cells B1, B2 According to the invention, the amount of energy is thus used to further supply the consumer L1 used and used. After a further period of time, the voltage output will be U2 again drop so far that the predetermined minimum value U1 is again undershot will. This state of affairs is ascertained via the reference unit 20 and from the Control unit 22 emits a further control signal S2 to the switching means 14 to be controlled. By switching over the switching means 14, the other Mono cell B5 switched on to supply the consumer L1. It can be seen that in the specified manner without difficulty via a further control signal S3, the switching means 16 can be controlled in order to also supply the mono cell B6 of the consumer L1 to be used. Needless to say, that if applicable also other switching means or

Cells can be provided.

Switching means K1, K2 are also connected in parallel to the mono cells B1, B2. Corresponding switching means can also the monocells B4, B5 and B6 are connected in parallel, but these are not shown for the sake of simplicity. It is known that the internal resistance of certain galvanic elements or cells increases with increasing discharge.

To in case of advanced discharge of an element or a cell to achieve the further flow of current through the consumer L1 are therefore the ones mentioned Switching means K1, K2 are provided with which the mono cells B1, B2 are short-circuited can be. The switching means Xi, K2 are expediently also controlled by control signals the control unit 22 is controlled. For example, when the control signal occurs S3 also controls the switching means K1 and is shown in the dash-dotted line Position brought. The mono cell B2 is short-circuited so that its internal resistance the flow of current is not hindered. If necessary, K2 can also be actuated at the same time will. These switching processes can also be carried out in a corresponding manner with other mono cells be performed. Of course, it is important to ensure that the Voltage of the mono cells that are switched on ensure sufficient supply of the Consumer's L1 guaranteed.

In Fig. 2 a circuit diagram of a bicycle lighting system is shown, which is made up of discrete electronic components. Here are three Cells B1, B2 and B3 connected in series. A switch A is also provided, to put the power supply unit into operation. The positive pole or the first Pole 24 is connected to terminal 8 of two consumers L1, L2 via line 6. The second connection 18 is via a switching means which is designed as a transistor T3 is, as well as via said switch A to the second, negative pole 26 of the power supply unit tied together.

It is initially assumed that the transistor T3 is fully turned on is and the three cells B1, B2 and B3 a sufficiently large voltage to the two Release consumer L1, L2. The cells mentioned are connected in series Zener diode Z D1 and a resistor R5 connected in parallel, the common Connection point passed through a resistor R1 to the base of a transistor T1 is. By means of the Zener diode Z D1, a defined voltage is generated in accordance with the Zener voltage Voltage value specified. As long as the voltage delivered by the cells is high enough is, a current will flow through the Zener diode Z D1, with the result that on a positive voltage is applied to the base of transistor T1. The transistor T1 is therefore turned on, and is at the base of the downstream transistor T2 the negative voltage across the resistor R2.

The transistor T2 is designed as a PNP transistor, which is thus controlled. The positive voltage from the first pole 24 is thus applied Via the diode D1, the transistor T2, the resistor R3 to the base of the switching transistor T3. The switching transistor T3 is designed as an NPN transistor, which thus is switched through, with the result that the second terminal 18 to the negative Pole 26 is connected. The consumers L1 and L2 are therefore the ones from the cells B1, B2, B3 output voltage, so that the consumers designed as incandescent lamps L1, L2 can also lead the specified current to generate the light.

To prevent the fourth cell B4 from being switched on, the negative voltage switched through by the transistor T1 lies across a resistor R4 also at the base of a downstream NPN transistor T4. The transistor T4 is blocked as long as the negative voltage is applied to its base.

The transistor T4 is a further transistor T5 and the latter one further switching transistor T6 connected downstream. It can be seen that as long as the Transistor T4 is blocked, the switching transistor T6 is blocked and thus cell 94 is turned off.

If now the voltage delivered by cells B1, 32, B3 as a result the consumption of the consumer or incandescent lamps L1, L2 below the means of the Zener diode Z D1 predetermined value decreases, this Zener diode closes Z D1 and across the resistor R5 and resistor R1, negative voltage is applied to the base of the transistor T1, which is now blocked. As a result, the resistors R4, R6 the positive voltage from the first pole 24 to the base of the transistor T4. Of the Transistor T4 then opens and conducts a negative voltage across the resistor R7 to the base of the downstream transistor T5.

The negative voltage at the base of the transistor T5 controls this by, so that thereupon the positive voltage from the first pole 24 across the diode D1, the transistor T5 and the resistor R8 at the base of the switching transistor T6 is present. As a result, the switching transistor T6 turns on, and the fourth cell B4 is switched on. Cell B4 is now in with the three other cells Row, and the loads L1, L2 have a correspondingly increased total voltage at.

At the same time, however, the following also happened. The fact that as a result of the Decrease in the voltage of the three cells B1, B2, B3, the Zener diode Z D1 and blocked then the base of the transistor T1 became negative and this transistor T1 thereupon also blocked, the positive voltage came from the first pole 24 across resistor R6 and the Resistor R4 does not only to the base of transistor T4, but also to the via resistor R2 Base of transistor T2.

The transistor T2 then blocks. Thus there can be no positive voltage more get to the base of transistor T3, which then also blocks and the connection of the second connection 18 to the second, negative pole is prevented.

The processes described take place simultaneously, and the supply the two incandescent lamps or consumers L1, L2 are thus suddenly replaced by three cells switched to four cells. The explained control of the switching transistors T3 and T6 ensures with high reliability that only one of the named Switching transistors is turned on.

A short circuit is thus reliably avoided. it should be pointed out that with the switching transistors T3 and T6, the switching means designed as a changeover switch 12 according to FIG. 1 is realized.

In the specified circuit, the diode D1 is used in an advantageous manner Way prevents that as long as the fourth cell B4 is not connected, too no negative reverse current, however small, from this cell B4 via the transistors T6 and T5 flow back to the three-cell main battery. Such a reverse current would prematurely weaken the storage capacity of the fourth cell B4.

For a preferred embodiment of the circuit according to FIG. 2, the various components advantageously dimensioned according to the following list. Instead of the specified semiconductor types of the company AEG-Te1Jfunken Of course, other semiconductor elements can also be used without to leave the inventive idea. The resistors are advantageous Ranges of the resistance values observed, preferably the last one in each case specified resistance value for a preferred and particularly favorable circuit leads: Zener diode ZD1: Zener voltage 2.7-3.6 preferably 3, OV diode D1: IN 4148 transistors T1, T4: BC 238 transistors T2, T5: BC 328 transistors T3, T6: BC 635 resistor R1: 1-50, preferably 10 kilohm resistor R2: 0.5-5, preferably 1 kilohm resistor R3: 50-500, preferably se 1C0 ohm resistor R4: 1-50, preferably 22 kiloohm Resistor R5: 100-5000, preferably 680 ohms Resistor R6: 1-50, preferably 22 kiloohm resistor R7: 0.1-5, preferably 1 kiloohm resistor R8: 50-500, preferably 100 ohms In Fig. 3 are the discharge curves of three alkaline series connected LR20 mono cells when exposed to loads with a resistance of approx 9 ohms shown. The open circuit voltage of these three cells is 1.52 V. Will the consumer with 9 ohms switched to the three cells connected in series, then the voltage delivered by the three cells drops to 4.14 V. In FIG this output voltage of 4.14 V at the beginning of the discharge process at the time Drawn in zero. Used as a consumer is an incandescent lamp with a nominal value of the operating voltage of 3.0 V is taken as a basis, there is thus an overvoltage of approx 38 e at.

At the specified operating voltage of 3.0 V, such an incandescent lamp delivers a specified minimum luminous flux. The following approximation formula can be given for the shortening of the service life as a result of an overvoltage: Service life reduction With an upper voltage of around 38%, the service life of the incandescent lamp is shortened to around 1/66. This high overvoltage occurs only very briefly in the given case, because after just 15 minutes of burning, the voltage of the three cells B1, B2, B3 has dropped to 3.90 V, which corresponds to an overvoltage of 30%. With this overvoltage, the service life of the incandescent lamp is only shortened with the divisor 30.

After a further 30 minutes, the overvoltage is only about 3.80 V or 27%. The service life of the incandescent lamp is then only calculated using the divisor 21 shortened. The further decrease in the output voltage is readily apparent from Fig. 3.

The nominal voltage has reached 3.0 V after about 14 hours. On average, the incandescent lamp burned with one during the first 14 hours mentioned Voltage of about 3.3 V, which is an average reduction in service life with about the divisor 3.5 means.

When the operating voltage of the three cells drops to 3.0 V. now the fourth cell B4 according to FIG. 2 is switched on. Due to the finite internal resistance of the switching transistor T6 is now applied to the consumers or incandescent lamps L1 and L2 applied initial voltage is somewhat limited and is 4.16 V.

The dashed line would show the voltage curve without represent connected fourth cell 34. After turning on sink the voltage values drop a little faster than in the first switch-on phase, and they reach after about 23 hours and 22 minutes the value of 3.0 V. Surprisingly breaks now the voltage due to the total voltage collapse that was initially switched on three cells B1, B2, B3 to a value of less than within about 3 minutes 1 V together.

Due to this surprising effect, the incandescent lamps or Consumers L1, L2 switched off suddenly, so to speak.

This means that when used in a bicycle lighting system, headlights, The tail light and, if necessary, other signal lights are switched off automatically, as soon as the prescribed light values are no longer sufficient. An additional and Complicated shutdown electronics are not required for this, as the shutdown caused by the almost complete discharge of the first three cells. It it is particularly important to note that the size of the cells used is the specified Voltage value for connecting the fourth cell as well as the resistance or the load are coordinated by the consumer in such a way that the sudden voltage collapse begins after about 23.5 hours, with the specified minimum value being observed until then has been. The in Fig.

3 entered discharge and voltage curves were used when using Alkali-manganese mono cells LR20 measured at a load of approx. 9 ohms. It has it has been shown that when using AUcali-Manganese monocells due to their special Discharge characteristics an astonishingly large extension of the operating time 14 to 23.5 hours is achieved if, according to the invention, only one additional Mono cell is switched on. They are therefore preferred for realizing the invention Cells or elements with similar discharge characteristics are used. The invention However, this does not affect the use of such Cells restricted. In the preferred use in a bicycle lighting system, the inventive Activation of traffic-endangering driving with too low light values reliably prevented. The extension of the useful life from 14 hours to 23.5 hours makes a significant contribution to improving road safety, whereby by connecting a single cell, the specified minimum value of 3.0 V for a further 9.5 hours is not exceeded. Would you instead of switching to switch the fourth cell in a row from the beginning for about 14 hours, then would although the voltage of 3 V is reached later than the specified 14 hours will. But this would mean that the initial voltage would be 5.52 V, which means a shortening of the service life of the 3 V incandescent lamp with about the divisor 2077 would.

In practice, when switching on a power supply unit designed in this way the incandescent lamp transform into a flashlight lamp, so to speak, because it would burn out after a few seconds. By the connection electronics according to the invention respectively.

If at least one additional cell is switched on, the voltage range is within which the incandescent lamp must work, significantly reduced in size. As shown in Fig. 3, this voltage range is in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG present invention only about 1.16 V, while with a normal series connection of four cells the voltage range would be 2.52 V. For the present Circuit example with a 3 V incandescent lamp finds its way through with three cells + one the switching electronics according to the invention switched on fourth cell a service life shortening the incandescent lamp with an average divisor of only about 3.5 instead. this means that with an incandescent lamp life of 350 hours at 3.0 V in practice of battery operation can still be achieved about 100 hours of service life corresponds to a normal standardized service life of a bicycle lamp.

Another problem is the dazzling effect of battery-operated bicycle lamps. If such a lamp has a luminous flux of 100% at 3.0 volts, then it increases this at 4.16 volts already to about 230% and at 5.52 volts or 84% overvoltage the glare values of a bicycle headlight could no longer be limited at all, because the luminous flux would be a multiple of the nominal luminous flux.

Also the problem of glare from battery operated bicycle headlights you can get a better grip on the connection electronics according to the invention, since the supply voltages from the batteries fluctuate in a smaller range.

Of course, other battery combinations are also possible, so for example two cells at the beginning and a connection of a third cell if the voltage of the first two cells connected in series to a value of, for example. 1.8 volts has dropped.

To operate normal 6v bicycle lamps, e.g. five cells can be connected in series, which is about 6.5 to 7V battery voltage at the beginning would bring. You could then add two more cells connected in series, if the voltage of the first five cells has dropped to about 4.5 volts, so do so start again with about 7 volts for a longer burning time.

Since the inventive surprising sudden collapse of the Supply voltage primarily when using alkaline manganese cells occurs at the end of battery life, it would be beneficial to use such alkaline cells in such a device.

As can be seen from FIG. 3, the inventive Activation of a reserve cell not only extends the service life by 14 over 23 hours, but beyond that would be without switching according to the invention the reserve cell a cyclist for about 9 hours with too weak lighting can continue driving, which would be extremely dangerous to traffic.

By using alkaline manganese cells and making the right choice the load on the cells, the voltage value of the incandescent lamps and the connection value it can also be ensured that driving with insufficient lighting is avoided by making the voltage of the cells quite steep at the end of their life falls off and the battery lighting is switched off in a very short time, as well it no longer delivers the required minimum values. This effect becomes according to the invention reliably ensured by the coding of the contacts for alkaline manganese cells.

However, should conventional cheaper, especially brownstone cells, are used, other measures are required to prevent the cyclist from falling below the limit Pay close attention to the minimum values.

A contact 30 and an associated alkali-manganese cell are schematically shown in FIG B1 shown. The alkali-manganese cell B1 has a positive pole 2, the height of which is designated in the direction of the axis 32 with H1. In comparison, the dashed line the height H2 of the positive pole of a conventional cell, in particular a so-called brownstone cell, shown to be a connection of contact Preventing 30 with a conventional cell is on the contact surface 34 an insulating piece 36 is arranged with a height H3. The I80-lierstück 36 is such formed that the size of the height H3 is between the heights H1 and H2. The insulating piece 36 can in particular be designed in the form of a ring, so that the use of an alkali-manganese cell B1 can take place in the direction of the axis 32. However, the insulating piece 36 is preferred essentially U-shaped in order to enable the cell B1, thus to enable transversely to the plane of the drawing. It does not need special mention that in a known manner, for example by means of springs, the cell B1 against the contact 30 is pressed.

It is therefore a code key using the Insulating piece 36 created for the exclusive use of alkaline manganese cells in the power supply unit.

FIG. 5 preferably shows one assigned to the front headlight of the bicycle Incandescent lamp L1 and an electronics assigned to this incandescent lamp L1. The light bulb L1 is connected on the one hand to the positive pole 24 and on the other hand via a transistor T11 connected to the negative pole 26 of cells B1, B2. The electronics contain a series circuit from a Zener diode ZD11 and a resistor R41. If the amount falls below the breakdown voltage of the Zener diode ZD11 blocks this and the resistors R41, Ril now the negative voltage reaches the base of a downstream Transistor T21. At the same time, a capacitor is negatively charged. Due to the This transistor T21 blocks negative voltage at the base of T21. The downstream Transistor 31 then blocks because there is no longer a negative voltage at its base. Thus, negative voltage is applied to the base via resistors R41, R11, R31 and R21 of the transistor T11 out, which then also locks and thus switches off the consumer or incandescent lamp L1. As a result of the shutdown the incandescent lamp L1, the load on cells B1, B2 is reduced, so that their output Voltage increases again a little. This also increases the through voltage of the Zener diode ZD11 exceeded and the positive voltage reaches the resistor R11 the base of transistor T21. This process is due to the previously necessary unloading of the capacitor CI delayed. The transistors are therefore not immediately switched on T21, T31 and Tfl and the incandescent lamp Ll is only switched on again with a delay. After that, it takes some time for the voltage to recover due to the load on L1 has fallen below the specified minimum value. Repeat the above procedures and the light bulb L1 flashes. After a certain period of time, the blinking will stop ended according to the invention, since due to the further discharge of the cells B1, B2 the The breakdown process of the Zener diode ZD11 is no longer achieved. The transistor T11 locks finally and the bulb L1 of the headlight remains according to the invention switched off.

In an alternative, preferred embodiment is in the electronics according to FIG. 5, the capacitor C1 is not present.

The delay explained above is therefore not given and the incandescent lamp After an initial shutdown, L1 would be switched on again practically immediately. As a result, therefore, the bulb L1 of a headlamp becomes very gradual getting weaker and shining. A second consumer is therefore in accordance with the invention L2, which is preferred as the bulb of a tail light of a bicycle lighting system is formed, the cells B1, B2 connected in parallel. Thus, in is more preferred Way a burden is still given if after falling below of specified minimum value in the manner specified above, the consumer or the Bulb L1 is switched off. As a result, after a first shutdown the incandescent lamp L1 also no longer has such a voltage rise due to which the transistor T11 could switch through again.

Due to the load from the consumer or the bulb L2 This ensures that after the consumer has been switched off for the first time or the incandescent lamp L1 remains switched off for the following time.

For a preferred embodiment of the circuit according to FIG. 5, the various components advantageously dimensioned according to the following list. Instead of the specified semiconductor elements from AEG-Telefunken, you can of course other semiconductors with similar data can also be used. With the resistors the specified ranges of resistance values are advantageously adhered to, with preferably the last given resistance value to a preferred one and particularly favorable circuit leads: transistor T11 BC 635 T 21 BC 238 T 31 BC 328 resistors R11 1 to 50, preferably 10 Xiloohm R21 50 Ohm to 1 kiloohm, preferably 150 ohms R31 22 kilo ohms to 1 mega ohm, preferably 220 kilo ohms R41 50 ohms to 5 kilo ohms, preferably 560 ohms capacitor C1 5 RH to 30 / «F, preferably 10 to 20 / kr The circuit of the electronics according to FIG. 5 can without Difficulties associated with the circuit of FIG. 2 and used there. For this purpose, the consumers or incandescent lamps L1, L2 are connected to the two connections 8, 18 to take out. At these connections 8, 18 the circuit is in a simple manner of the electronics according to FIG. 5 connected to the poles 24, 26, of course cells B1, B2 are omitted. In other words, the connection 8 is on the pole 24 and the connection 18 led to the pole 26.

6 shows a bicycle lighting system with switching electronics for stand lighting using elements or cells B1, B2, B3. A generator or Bicycle dynamo G supplies an alternating voltage to supply the bicycle headlight bulb L3 and the bicycle tail light bulb L4. The generator G is a bridge rectifier with four diodes D100 - D103 connected downstream, with also a smoothing capacitor C110 is provided. It is also connected to the positive and negative connections of the rectifier a series circuit of a Zener diode ZD110 and a resistor R110 is connected. The common connection point of Zener diode ZD110 and resistor R110 is across a resistor R210 connected to the base of a transistor T110. The collector-emitter path of the transistor T110 is connected to the series-connected cells B1, B2, B3 via a Switch A connected. When switch A is closed, the activation electronics activated. As soon as the voltage supplied by the generator has reached a specified value falls below, the Zener diode ZDllO blocks. As bicycle lighting systems operated with dynamo are generally equipped with 6 volt incandescent lamps, the Zener diode ZD110 blocks preferred if the dynamo voltage is below a predetermined value of 5 to 4 volts decreases to the now insufficient bright dynamo lighting to supplement or replace lighting that is operated by switching on the battery. When the Zener diode ZD110 blocks, a negative one passes through the resistors R110, R210 Voltage at the base of transistor T110, which then blocks. Thereupon a positive voltage arrives from cells B1, B2, B3 via resistor R510 to the base of transistor T210. This transistor now controls a negative one Voltage through, which via the resistor R310 to the base of the transistor T310 got. The transistor T310 also controls through and through the resistor R410 positive voltage reaches the base of transistor T410. The transistor T410 then switches through and the light bulbs L1 of the bicycle headlight and the Burn bulb L2 of the bicycle rear light. From the collector of transistor T410 leads a positive feedback resistor R110 to the base of the transistor TltO. This Positive feedback resistor R610 has the effect that when transistor T410 a negative voltage reaches the base of the transistor T110, and the pending there negative potential is amplified.

If the voltage supplied by the Dynamo G increases with a faster one Driving mode on, the Zener diode ZD110 controls through and positive voltage is applied to the base of transistor T110, which controls du = h, so that negative voltage got to the base of T210. As a result, the transistor T210 blocks and also Transistor T310 and transistor T410. This will make the light bulbs L1 and L2 switched off. Because the transistor T410 blocks, it passes through the positive feedback resistor R610 additional positive potential to the base of transistor T110. So long The voltage supplied by the dynamo G is large enough, the batteries remain powered Incandescent lamps L1, L2 switched off and only the dynamo-operated incandescent lamps L3, L4 burn.

The switching electronics explained here advantageously switch one Battery-operated bicycle lights too, which are those for dynamo-operated lights prescribed minimum light intensities, so that it is left to the cyclist to E.g. switch off the energy-sapping dynamo completely on an incline. The switched on Switch-on electronics will then operate the bicycle lighting system with batteries until the dynamo is put back on.

For a preferred embodiment of the circuit according to FIG. 6, the various components advantageously dimensioned according to the following list. Instead of the specified semiconductor types from AEG-Telefunken, you can of course other semiconductor elements can also be used without the idea of the invention leaving. In the case of the resistors and the capacitor, the areas are advantageous of the values adhered to, the last value preferably given becoming a preferred one particularly favorable circuit leads: Zener diode ZD110: Zener voltage 3.0 V diodes D100 to D103: IN 4148 transistors T110, T210: BC 238 transistor T310: BC 328 transistor T410; BC 635 resistors R110, R310: 100 ohms - 2 kilo ohms, preferably 680 ohms resistance R210: 1-50 kilo ohms, preferably 10 kilo ohms resistor R410: 10 ohms - 1 kilo ohms, preferably 100 ohm resistor R510: 1-220 kiloohms, preferably 22 kiloshm resistor R610: 22 kiloohms - 1 megaohm, preferably. 220 kolin capacitor C110: 10 / 'F - 220 tF, preferably 47 / F In Fig. 7 is the combination of the circuit shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 6, the corresponding components are each provided with the same reference numerals.

In the upper part of the drawing, the components according to FIG. 2 can be seen, for the sake of simplicity on the relevant statements referenced above. In cells B1, B2, B3 is also in the lower part of the drawing assigned to the switching electronics explained with reference to FIG. 6. The transistor T410 is with its emitter via switch A with cell B3 and with its collector with consumers or

Incandescent lamps L1, L2 connected. Is the voltage supplied by generator E. too small, the transistor T410 is turned on and via the cells B1, B2, B3, the incandescent lamps L1, L2 are supplied with voltage. The current flows here from the positive pole 24 via the line 6 through the incandescent lamps L1, L2 and further via the Terminal 8 through the turned on transistor T3 and through the turned on Transistor T410 and switch A to negative pole 26. Now used by the generator G supplied a higher voltage and exceeded the specified minimum value, so the switching transistor T410 will block.

As a result, the current flow explained is interrupted, and there will be only the light bulbs L3 and L4 light up. On the other hand, if it falls below that of the generator G supplied voltage exceeds the specified minimum value, so the switching transistor T410 again activated so that the light bulbs L1 and L2 light up again will. This ensures reliable lighting.

It should be expressly emphasized that each of the two incandescent lamps for the front headlight or rear light, preferably in so-called double headlights or double taillights can be arranged. The bulbs from the headlights preferably have different electrical and / or lighting properties on. The same goes for the taillights.

Headlights and taillights are advantageous with concave mirror reflectors equipped.

Fig. 8 shows the circuit diagram of a bicycle lighting system, which essentially Parts with the bicycle lighting system according to FIG. 2 coincides. The matching Electronic components are therefore provided with the same reference numerals and reference is expressly made to the explanations relating to FIG. 2 in this regard. Additionally however, a generator or bicycle dynamo G is provided, which generates an alternating voltage can deliver. One connection of the bicycle dynamo G is via a switching device 40 and the line 6 to the first connection 8 of the consumer or incandescent lamps L1 and L2 out. The other connection of the bicycle dynamo is via a line 44 connected to the second terminal 18. By means of the switching device 40, which is designed as a switch, the bicycle dynamo G or but the galvanic elements or cells B1, B2, B3 and possibly also B4 be connected to the incandescent lamps Ll, L2. The incandescent lamps L1 and L2 are two against each other switched Zener diodes ZD2 and ZD3 connected in parallel.

It is initially assumed that the switching device 40 on the positive pole 24 of cells B1, B2, B3 is connected and that thus the incandescent lamps L1 and L2 are fed from the cells. Furthermore, the Zener diode ZD3 should initially remain unconsidered. The Zener diode ZD2 should have a breakdown voltage in the Of the order of 3.8 volts.

If these cells are completely fresh, they deliver, as already shown of Fig. 3 explained, with the specified load by the two incandescent lamps L1 and L2 have a voltage of about 4.14 V. However, by means of the Zener diode ZD2 the voltage peak above the breakdown voltage of 3.8 V. derived and kept away from the light bulbs.

It can be seen that this is the working area for the incandescent lamps L1 and L2 can be restricted to a not inconsiderable extent. But beyond that, too The following facts are of decisive importance: in the case of a bicycle lighting system the light bulb L1 of the headlight is known to be designed for a higher output than the tail lamp bulb L2. So if the bulb L1 of the headlight falls due to a defect, there is a relatively high voltage, which is not insignificant is greater than the 4.14 V mentioned above, on the comparatively "weak" incandescent lamp L2 on. Under these conditions, the incandescent lamp L2 is significantly overloaded and it will also burn out in no time. By means of the invention Limiting device or the Zener diode ZD2, however, an overload is reliable prevented. The necessary work area can also be based on these interrelationships for the incandescent lamps L1 and L2 are considerably restricted.

By switching the switching device 40, the cells B1, B2, B3 and possibly also B4 of the incandescent lamps L1 and L2 switched off and it is the bicycle dynamo G is switched on. The bicycle dynamo supplies an alternating voltage, which is 6 V in nominal operation. If you would use the incandescent lamps L1 and L2, which are for the cells are sized, simply connect to the bicycle dynamo, so would they get overloaded and burn out. To avoid this, the two are against each other switched zener diodes ZD2 and ZD3 provided. It should be emphasized that the Zener diode ZD2 thus has a double function, namely it limits both in battery operation as well as in generator operation. With the two zener diodes the voltage values of the respective half-waves above the breakdown voltages the alternating voltage is limited.

The breakdown voltage of the Zener diode ZD3 is not 2.4 V. insignificantly below the breakdown voltage of 3.8 V of the Zener diode ZD2. This means, that of the one half-wave of the alternating voltage a larger area from the Zener diode ZD3 is derived from the Zener diode ZD2. Thus, in a simple manner corresponding specification of the breakdown voltage of the Zener diode ZD3 of the Fahrraddynan G the mean voltage applied to the bulbs L1 and L2 to the nominal data of the Incandescent lamps L1 and L2 are matched. This is of vital importance because thus the parts of the bicycle lighting system intended for battery operation and above all the incandescent lamps L1 and L2 are initially optimized for themselves and coordinated with one another can be. Independently of this, the Zener diode ZD3 can then be used for generator operation be interpreted.

In a preferred embodiment of the bicycle lighting system as oppositely connected Zener diodes ZD2, ZD3 those of the type BZX 55C with a Breakdown voltage of 3.0 V provided. The two incandescent lamps have a nominal voltage from 3 V, with the incandescent lamp L1 consuming 240 mA and the incandescent lamp L2 has a current consumption of 85 mA. According to the following table total currents of different sizes for alternating voltage or direct voltage the Zener diodes ZD2, ZD3-determined: total current / mA voltage / V with alternating voltage with direct voltage 3 10 0.3 3.25 17 2 3.5 25 4 3.75 55 7.5 4.0 96 12 4.25 126 19 4.5 148 47 It can be seen that with the same voltage values with alternating voltage a higher current is discharged than with direct voltage. This sets the voltage regulation earlier for the more powerful bicycle dynamo G than for cells B1, B2, B3.

Fig. 9 shows the circuit diagram of a modified bicycle lighting system, similar to FIG. 8, in which the Zener diodes ZD2 and ZD3 are directly connected to the bicycle dynamo are connected in parallel. Even with such an arrangement of the Zener diodes based on the above.

voltage limitation of the generator explained in detail by FIG ensures that no peak battery voltage is derived here, but only the generator or Fahrraityzeo is controlled.

Fig. 10 shows a basic circuit diagram of a bicycle lighting system, the Bicycle dynamo G a rectifier device in the form of a diode D2 connected in series is. The bicycle dynamo G together with the series-connected diode D2 are the cells B1, B2 and B3 connected in parallel. The cells B1, B2 and B3 also have a switching device 42 upstream. The rectifier element or the diode D2 is arranged in such a way that that a current flow from the cells via the bicycle dyymo G is prevented.

This extremely simple bicycle lighting system allows without an external intervention an automatic switchover from battery operation to generator operation or vice versa. If the voltage supplied by the Fahrraddynarna G is less than the voltage supplied by cells B1, B2, B3 are when the switching device is closed 42 the incandescent lamps L1 and L2 fed by the cells mentioned. By means of the diode D2, however, is an impermissible discharge of cells B1, B2, B3 via the generator G avoided. If the voltage delivered by the Fahrraddynama G exceeds the total voltage of cells B1, B2, B3, the FaIraddynamo G takes over the supply of the light bulbs L1 and L2.

This is followed by a continuous transition from battery operation to Generator operation and the light bulbs L1, L2 light up with little change in luminosity. It can be seen that this process also in a corresponding manner when the voltage of the bicycle dynamo falls below the total voltage of the cells B1, B2, B3 enters. By means of the switching device 42, the cells B1, B2, B3 can be switched off, for example during the day or when the bike is parked, to prevent unnecessary discharge of the cells.

In FIG. 11, the bicycle lighting systems according to FIGS. 8 and 10 are together combined. Invention of the Bicycle Dymiro G is a D20 bridge rectifier and a capacitor C20 connected downstream, so that a positive voltage on the first Stop 8 is applied. The positive pole 24 of cells B1, B2, B3 is closed when Switching device 42 also via line 6 to the first terminal 8 of the two light bulbs L1 and L2. It can be seen that by means of the rectifier D20, when the switching device 42 is closed, the cells are discharged via the bicycle dynamo G will avoid. A bicycle lighting system constructed in this way thus combines excellent Way, the advantages and modes of operation explained in detail with reference to FIGS. 2, 8 and 10. It is characterized by a minimal effort and it guarantees reliable lighting in all operating conditions.

This ensures that the bike is illuminated even when it is stationary, without the need for expensive switching electronics. A bicycle lighting system 11 opens up three possibilities for the cyclist: 1. If he wants additional Avoid physical exertion in the dark, then he needs the bicycle dynamo Do not put it on the bicycle tire. It is sufficient that he turns on the switch 42; it therefore has continuous lighting, which is therefore very inexpensive is than by switching on the other Cell B4 with intermittent Discharge of e.g. 15 minutes twice a day the useful life of the cells is doubled.

2. If, on the other hand, he puts the dynamo on the bicycle tire, so will if the driving speed is sufficient, i.e. if the voltage of the dynamo is high enough, the cells are not stressed. Does he have to go slowly, e.g. for traffic-related reasons drive or stop, the cells will be opened without any action on the part of the cyclist Ensure sufficient lighting without the need for expensive switching electronics is required.

3. Should the cyclist even change the cells in a timely manner To have forgotten, the lighting of the bike is in a known manner during the ride is ensured by the dynamo.

In an alternative embodiment, it is used as a rectifier element not, as previously explained, a single diode is provided, but there are several Diodes, in particular in the form of a diode bridge, are provided for full-wave rectification to obtain.

In Fig. 12 a schematic of a bicycle lighting system is shown, in which a current flow of the dynamo via cells that have become low-resistance automatically is prevented. For a better understanding of these interrelationships, first of all Reference is made to FIG. The cells connected in parallel to the bicycle dynamo G. B1, B2, B3 have a sufficiently high resistance when charged, so that there is practically no current flow from the bicycle dynamo G via the cells mentioned entry. If, however, the cells B1, B2, B3 are discharged, at least different Types of cells whose internal resistance is low, and it could be Circuit according to FIG. 10 thus a current flow through the discharged cells B1, B2, B3 take place. So that such a current flow cannot come about, is in the bicycle lighting system 12, a switching or locking device is provided, which in the essential Components with the switching electronics according to FIG. 5 coincides.

The cells B1, E2, B3 are connected in series with a Zener diode ZD11 and a resistor R41 connected in parallel.

If the value of the breakdown voltage of the Zener diode is not reached ZD11 blocks this and the negative one now passes through the resistors R41, R11 Voltage to the base of the downstream transistor T21. As a result locks the transistor T21, and the downstream transistor T31 then also blocks, since there is no longer any negative voltage at its base. Thus it becomes negative voltage Via the resistors R41, Rll, R31 and R21 to the base of the switching transistor T11 led, which then also locks.

Viewed from the bicycle dynamo G, the transistor Til is in series with cells B1, B2, B3. So if the voltage of the cells mentioned is below a given value drops and the cells have become low resistance by means of the now blocked transistor T11, a current flow through cells B1, B2, B3 prevented. When falling below a predetermined minimum voltage the cells B1, B2, B3 of the bicycle dynamo G are thus switched off. Through the positive feedback resistance R31, the switching transistor T11 is switched off quickly and reliably. In addition, however, a capacitor C1 can also be connected to the positive feedback resistor R31 be connected in parallel. As already explained in detail with reference to FIG. 5, by means of the capacitor C1 a time delay and possibly also a flashing of the incandescent lamps L1, L2 reached. As long as the bicycle dynamo G has a sufficiently high voltage, of course supplies, the light bulbs will not flash. At the latest with Parking the bike, however, the light bulbs Ll and L2 will flash, so that the Cyclists pay attention to the advanced discharge of cells B1, B2, B3 is made. By means of the rectifier device, which in turn acts as a diode D2 is to be formed, an impermissible discharge of the cells via the generator however avoided. It should be emphasized at this point that with all embodiments instead of a diode, which is known to only have one-way rectification can accomplish, if necessary, another rectifier device is provided can be. In particular, a diode bridge can be provided as the rectifier device to obtain full wave rectification.

It should also be particularly emphasized that with sufficiently large Voltage of cells B1, B2, B3, transistor T1 is fully turned on and thus has an extremely low resistance of its emitter-collector path.

With battery operation, there is only a comparatively small voltage drop at transistor T11. In addition, however, the transistor T11 prevents im Generator operation, that the half-waves passed by the diode D2 or one pending at the output of a correspondingly arranged rectifier device positive voltage, in any way via the shutdown electronics according to the invention is derived.

The above is also explained in the case of the bicycle lighting system according to FIG. 11 Shutdown function fulfilled. The cells B1, B2, B3 become with increasing discharge low resistance, the transistor T3 is blocked. Because of the bicycle dynamo G rectifier device connected in series or diode D2 only get positive Half waves or a positive voltage from the bicycle dynamo G to the switching device 42 or to the pole 24. In the event of an assumed short circuit in cells B1, B2, B3 or also B4 is connected to the emitter of the transistor T3 or also to the emitter of the transistor T6 a positive voltage in each case. Due to the training and arrangement of the called transistors T3 and T6, a blocking effect is thus achieved and a Inadmissible current flow through the cells can therefore not occur. In summary can therefore be determined that the bicycle lighting system according to the invention according to 11 fulfills a total of six functions in a single circuit: 1. automatic Switching between generator and battery operation.

2. Extension of the useful life of the cells by switching on another cell B4 by a factor of about 2.

3. Blocking effect for generator current in the case of low resistance of the cells.

4. Limiting effect in the event of voltage and / or current peaks in the cells.

5. Limiting effect in the event of voltage and / or current peaks in the bicycle dynamo.

6. Sudden breakdown of the supply voltage to the cells Falling below a voltage necessary to achieve minimum light values.

It should be emphasized at this point that in the frame of the invention, all combinations and subcombinations of the based on the exemplary embodiments explained circuit parts or features. One restriction only on the the respective exemplary embodiments specified modes of operation and relationships never given.

Reference list 2, 4 plus poles 6 line 8 first connection 10 Line 12, 14, 16 switching means 18 second connection 20 reference unit 22 control unit 24 first, positive pole 26 second, negative pole 30 contact 32 axis 34 contact surface 36 Insulator A switch B1, B2, B3 elements or cells B4, B5, B6 capacitor Diode ZD ... Zener diode T ... transistor resistor L1, L2 consumer or incandescent lamp L3, L4 further consumers or incandescent lamp G generator H1, H2, H3 height 40/42 switching device 44 Leadership Blank page

Claims (47)

Claims 9 bicycle lighting system, which preferably has at least two Series-connected galvanic elements or cells, which have an electrical Deliver voltage to at least one consumer, characterized in that at Falling below the voltage output by the named elements or cells (B1, B2) (U2) and / or the current flowing through the consumer under at least one predetermined minimum value (U1; at least one further element or cell (B4) the said Elements or cells (B1, B2> are connected in series to the consumer (L1, L2) to increase the available voltage. 2. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1, characterized in that the open circuit voltage of the element or elements initially connected to the consumer (L1, t2) or cells (B1, B2) and / or said minimum value is more preferably at least is greater by a factor of (2) than the open circuit voltage of the connected element or Cell (B4N 3, Fadrradlichtanlage according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in, that the connection of one or more elements or cells (B4, B5, B6) one after the other occurs when the total voltage (U2) including the voltage of the previously connected elements or cells falls below a specified minimum value (U1). 4. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that a reference unit (20) and a control unit (22) are provided, with means the reference unit (20) can determine whether a predetermined minimum value U1 has been fallen below and that a control signal (S1, S2X) is output by means of the control unit (22) and that switching means (12, 14, 16; T3, T6) are provided, which when the control signal occurs, the connection of the further element or cell (B4, B5, B6). 5. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that switching means (K1, K2) are provided, by means of which elements that have already been discharged or cells (B1, B2) can be switched off or short-circuited, the signals for Actuation of the switching means (K1, K2) is preferably output by the control unit (22) will. 6. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that the reference unit (20> and the control unit (22) are combined into a single functional unit (ZD1) are. 7. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that the reference unit (20) corresponds to the elements or cells (B1, B2) or the consumer <L1, L2) is connected in parallel. 8. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that the consumer or consumers (L1, L2) with their first connection (8) directly with one connected to the first pole of the power supply unit, that the second connection (18) the consumer (s) (L1, L2) either via the first switching means (T3) or via the second Switching means (T6) can be connected to the second pole (26) of the power supply unit, the further element or cell (B4) in series with the second switching means (T6) is switched on. 9. -Pahfradlichtanlage according to claim 1 or the following, characterized by using it on a bicycle, whereby the consumer or consumers (L1, L2) the Bulbs of the headlights and / or the tail light and / or the signal lights (Flashing lights) of the bike. 10. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that the reference and control unit (20, 21) as a semiconductor element is preferred is designed as a Zener diode (ZD1). 11. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that a series connection of Zener diode (1) and resistor (RS) the elements or Cells (B1, B2, B3) is connected in parallel that the connection point between Zener diode (ZD1) and resistor (R5) via another resistor (R1) with the base of a Transistor (T1) is connected, and that the collector-emitter path of this transistor (Tl) with the base of an NPN transistor (T4) and the base of a PNP transistor (T2) connected is. 12. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 11, characterized in that the emitter of the transistor (Tl) with the negative pole (26) of the elements or cells (B1, B2, B3) is connected, and that the collector is connected to the positive via a resistor (R6) Pole (24) is connected. 13. bike lights. according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that alkaline cells (DIN designation LR) or cells with similar discharge characteristics used to avoid a sudden voltage breakdown at the end of the discharge time to reach. 14. Bicycle lighting system. according to claim 1 or the following, in particular according to claim 13, characterized in that the predetermined minimum value (U1) and the load caused by the consumer (s) (L1, L2) and the size of the one used Elements or cells (B1, B2, B3) are coordinated in such a way that the sudden Voltage collapse at the end of the usable discharge time occurs when the total voltage including the connected elements or cells (B4) again in the vicinity, preferably slightly below the specified minimum voltage (U12 dropped is. 15 bicycle light system in particular according to claim 13, characterized in that that at least one contact which with a pole (2, 4) of an element or a Cell (B1, B2) is to be connected, designed in this way in shape and / or size and / or material is that an electrical connection is only made to a given type of element or cell can be produced. 16. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 15, characterized in that to ensure the use of alkaline cells, the middle part of which is the The positive pole (2, 4) has a height (H1) which is greater than the conventional height (H2) Cells, arranged on at least one contact, at least one insulating piece whose height (H3) is above the contact area between (H1 and H2). 17. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 16, characterized in that the insulating piece in plan view in the direction of the axis of the cell (B1, B2, B4) essentially Is U-shaped. 18. Bicycle light system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that the consumer (L1), which is preferably a headlight bulb a bicycle headlight is formed, an electronics is arranged. by means of which when falling below a predetermined minimum value the voltage (U3) delivered to the consumer (L1) a signal, in particular a optical signal is emitted. 19. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that by means of the consumer (L1) said signal as Flashing signal is given. 20. Bicycle lighting system 'in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that at least one further consumer (L2), which is preferred the bulb of a bicycle rear light 4st, with the power supply unit in Series and at the same time the signal-emitting electronics is connected in parallel. 21. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that after falling below the predetermined minimum value the Signal is emitted for a certain period of time and that after this period has elapsed the power supply from the consumer (L1) is switched off. 22. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that a series connection of a Zener diode (ZD11) and a resistor (R41) the cells (B1, B2) is connected in parallel that the common Connection of Zener diode (ZD11) and resistor (R41) to two connected in series Driver transistors (T21, T31) is performed, which about a resistor (R21) are led to the base of a transistor (T11), and that the transistor (T11) a consumer (L1), preferably the light bulb of a bicycle headlight turns on and off. 23. Wheel light system according to claim 22, characterized in that that from the base of the transistor (T21) a positive feedback resistor (R31) to the collector-emitter path of the transistor (T31) leads. 24. E-bicycle lighting system according to claim 23, characterized in that that a capacitor (C1) is connected in parallel to the positive feedback resistor (R31), after the voltage falls below the specified minimum value for the first time make the light bulb (L1) flash. 25. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that that an optical display, in particular a light emitting diode, is provided to the Display below a specified minimum voltage. 26. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that switching electronics are provided by means of which the consumers or incandescent lamps L1, L2) can be switched off by the elements or cells (B1, B2) respectively. these can be switched on if the from a generator, in particular voltage supplied by a bicycle dynamo (G) exceeds a specified value or falls below. 27. Bicycle facility, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that a switching electronics the generator, in particular, has a reference unit (ZD? 10) connected downstream of a bicycle dynamo (G) and that switching means (T410) are connected downstream of the reference unit (ZD110), by means of which the consumers or incandescent lamps (L1, L2) from the elements or cells (B1, B2) can be switched off or which can be switched on. 28. Ahrradlichtanlage according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that, that the generator (G) is a series connection of a Zener diode (ZD110) and a resistor (R110), preferably connected downstream with the interposition of a rectifier D100 to D103 is that the common connection point of the Zener diode (ZD110) and the resistor (R110) is led to the base of a transistor (T110) and that the transistor (T110) preferably with the interposition of driver transistors (T210, T310) Switching transistor [410) is connected downstream, the switching transistor (T410) together with the consumers or incandescent lamps (L1, L2) with the elements or cells (B1, B2) is connected in series. 29. wheel lighting system according to claim 28, characterized in that between the base of the transistor [110) and the collector-emitter path of the switching transistor (T410) a positive feedback resistor (R610) is connected. 30. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that switching electronics, by means of which the consumers or incandescent lamps (L1, L2) from the elements or cells (B1, B2) can be switched off or these can be switched on if they are supplied by a generator, in particular a bicycle dynamo (G) the voltage supplied exceeds or falls below a specified value, is connected to an additional electronic system, by means of which when the value falls below that of the voltage delivered to the elements or cells (B1, B2) and / or the current flowing through the loads (L1, L2) below at least at least one further element or cell (B4) denotes a predetermined minimum value named elements or cells (B1, B2) is switched on in series to provide the To increase the voltage available to consumers (L1, L2). 31. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, which preferably at least two series-connected galvanic elements or Has cells, which an electrical voltage to at least one consumer or emit incandescent lamp - in particular according to patent application P 31 06 569.4, thereby characterized in that the consumer or the incandescent lamp (Ll, L2) has a limiting device (ZD2) is assigned, by means of which voltage and / or current peaks from the consumer or the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) are kept away or at least reduced. 32. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 31, characterized in that that the limiting device as a semiconductor element, preferably as a Zener diode (ZD2) is formed which the consumer or the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) parallel is connected, its cathode with the positive pole (24) of the galvanic Elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) are connected. 33. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, being a bicycle dynamo for optional or additional care of the consumer or the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) is provided, characterized in that that the consumer or the incandescent lamp (tal, L2) a limiting device (ZD21 ZD3) is assigned, by means of which voltage and / or current peaks from the consumer respectively. kept away from the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) or at least reduced. 34. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 33, wherein the bicycle dynamo is a AC voltage supplies, characterized in that the limiting device Semiconductor elements, preferably two Zener diodes (ZD2, ZD3) connected against each other, has, which the consumer or the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) connected in parallel are. 35. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that the nominal voltage of the galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3) is less than the nominal voltage of the bicycle dynamo (G) and that the Consumers or the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) to the voltage range of the galvanic Elements or cells (B1, B2, B3) is matched and that the limiting device or the Zener diodes (ZD2, ZD3) to the nominal voltage or working range of the incandescent lamp (L1, L2) are matched. 36. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 35, characterized in that the limiting device or the one Zener diode (ZD2), by means of which the of voltage and / or current peaks supplied to the galvanic elements or cells be kept away or at least reduced, a higher limit value or Has breakdown voltage than the limiting device or the other Zener diode (ZD3), by means of which only the voltage supplied by the bicycle dynamo (G) and / or current spikes from the consumer or the light bulb (L1, L2) should be kept away or at least reduced. 37. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 36, wherein a bicycle dynamo with a nominal voltage of 8 V and a nominal power of 3 W is provided, thereby characterized that the nominal voltage of the galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) is in the range of 4.5 V that the breakdown voltage of one Zener diode (ZD2) is in the range from 3.3 to 4.3 V, preferably at 3.8 V, and that the breakdown voltage the other Zener diode (ZD3) in the range of 1.9 - 2.9 V, preferably at 2.4 V, lies. 38. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that the limiting device (ZD2, ZD3) is the bicycle dynamo (G) is connected in parallel. 39. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that a switching device (40) is provided by means of which optionally the bicycle dynamo (G) or the galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) can be switched on to supply the consumer or the incandescent lamps (L1, L2) are. 40. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, characterized in that with the bicycle dynamo (G) a rectifier device, preferably a diode (D2), is connected in series and that the bicycle dynamo and the rectifier device to the galvanic elements or Cells (B1, B2, B3; 34) are connected in parallel in such a way that the rectifier device (D2) is switched in the reverse direction so that a discharge of the galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) cannot enter via the bicycle dynamo (G). 41. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 40, characterized in that a switching device (42) with the galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) is connected in series to switch it on or off. 42. Bicycle lighting system, in particular according to claim 1 or the following, wherein a bicycle dynamo is provided, characterized in that the bicycle dynamo (G) galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) are connected in parallel, and that by means of a switching device (42; T11) and / or a blocking device (D2, T3, T6, T11) a current flow caused by the bicycle dynamo (G) through the galvanic Elements or cells (B1, B2, B3; B4) if their internal resistance is too low is throttled or prevented. 43. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 42, characterized in that the switching means or transistors (T3, T6) perform a double function in such a way that that, on the one hand, the switching operations for switching on at least one further galvanic Element or cell (B4) and on the other hand in cooperation with the rectifier device or diode form said blocking device. 44. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 42, characterized in that the galvanic elements or cells (B1, B2, B3) a measuring device (R41, ZD11) is assigned, and that at Falling below a specified minimum voltage of the cells (B1, B2, B3) via the measuring device (R41, ZD11) the switching device or the switching transistor (T11) is made high resistance. 45. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 42, characterized in that a series circuit of a Zener diode (ZD11) and a resistor (R41) den Cells (B1, B2, B3) are connected in parallel that the common connection of Zener diodes (ZD11) and resistor (R41) on two driver transistors connected in series (T21, T31), which via a resistor (R21) to the base of a transistor (T11) is performed, and that the transistor (T11) with the cells (B1, B2, B3) in series is switched and when the cells fall below a predetermined minimum voltage (B1, B2, B3) switches off the same from the bicycle dynamo (G). 46. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 45, characterized in that from the base of the transistor (T21) a positive feedback resistor (R31) to the collector-emitter path of the transistor (T31) leads. 47. Bicycle lighting system according to claim 46, characterized in that a capacitor (C1) is connected in parallel with the positive feedback resistor (R31).