FR3096337A1 - Anti-theft device for cycle and associated cycle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an anti-theft device (20) for a cycle (1), said cycle (1) comprising two substantially coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the female element integrally cooperating with the frame (5) of said cycle, the male element being mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the female element, said anti-theft device (20) being characterized in that it comprises means arranged to block the rotary stroke of the male element relative to the female element in response to an event trigger determined. Figure to be published with the abstract: Fig. 5A

Description

Description Title of the invention: Anti-theft device for cycle and associated cycle

The invention relates to the field of anti-theft devices or systems.

Such anti-theft devices or systems are used for all types of use and preferentially but not exclusively, in application with pedal-powered machines, such as, for example two-wheelers, possibly motorized, or more generally cycles, possibly assisted pedaling, or even motorcycles.

Within the meaning of the invention and throughout the document, the term "two-wheeler" means any vehicle or means of locomotion comprising two wheels arranged along the same longitudinal axis and a saddle, such, for example, such a vehicle being motorized or no and intended for the transport of one or two people.

Also, within the meaning of the invention and throughout the document, the term "cycle" means any vehicle or means of locomotion, whether or not without a motor (in the case of a motorized cycle, we will then speak of motorcycles), comprising a plurality of wheels, that is to say at least two wheels or more, such, for example, bicycles, tricycles, scooters, velomobiles, quadricycles, balance bikes, (...), such vehicle, when it has no engine, being human-powered, that is to say driven by a single force generated by the respective physical effort or efforts of a driver and/or passengers.

[0002] In the remainder of the document, the invention will be described, preferably but not limitatively, in application with a bicycle, also referred to as a bicycle (abbreviation of the word “velocipede”).

The invention cannot, however, be limited to this example of application alone and could instead be used in connection with any device requiring blocking of an axis in rotation, such as for example the hinges of a door.

[0003] Throughout the world, the bicycle is recognized and used as one of the main means of transport.

Its practice, qualified as “cycling”, constitutes both a daily use of transport, a sport and a popular leisure activity.

In comparison with walking, for the same individual, the bicycle is between two and four times faster and two to three times more efficient for the same energy effort.

[0004] A bicycle thus consists of a human-powered land vehicle or machine, belonging to the category of cycles, as previously described.

Such a bicycle generally comprises two wheels aligned along the same longitudinal axis, the presence of such wheels giving the vehicle its name.

The driving force, also qualified as human propulsion, for said bicycle is mainly provided by a driver, also called a "cyclist", generally in a seated position on the saddle of the bicycle, by means of a pedal assembly generally comprising two pedals and a roller chain, said crankset thus driving the rear wheel dc of the bicycle.

The front wheel of the bicycle is, for its part, steering, thus ensuring the balance of said bicycle.

The orientation and direction of the bicycle are controlled by a handlebar.

The driver or cyclist of such a bicycle thus generally places his two hands on the two grips of said handlebars so as to control the trajectory, the braking or even the change of gears.

A known embodiment of a bicycle is described in connection with Figure 1.

A known bicycle 1 comprises a frame 5 as its main part.

Such a frame 5 generally consists of a first structure 5dt, 5tt, 5st of substantially triangular shape on which the weight of a user or driver is distributed from the fulcrum of a saddle 6 on which said driver sits.

This first frame structure 5 can cooperate integrally according to a suitable mechanical connection, preferably embedding, with a second structure 5ss, 5cs also of substantially triangular shape, of smaller dimensions, on which is mounted a rear wheel 3r.

The first structure, optionally in the form of a single entity, is generally composed of a horizontal tube 5tt cooperating integrally according to mechanical connections embedding with a diagonal tube 5dt, a seat tube 5st and a steering tube 5ht, said tubes 5dt diagonal, 5ht direction and 5st saddle also cooperating together according to mechanical connections embedding.

The second structure, for its part, is generally made up of a 5ss stay, corresponding to the outer edge of this second structure, and a Ses base.

[0007] A bicycle generally has two front 3f and rear 3r wheels.

Each of the wheels 3f, 3r consist of a generally spoked wheel, thus comprising a plurality of spokes 3s, a hub 3wh consisting of the central part of the wheel on which the plurality of spokes 3s are assembled and ensuring the rotational guidance of the wheel, a 3ri rim and a 3t cover.

The front wheel 3f is fixed to the frame 5 by a fork 2f, possibly suspended, more precisely at its lower ends, the upper end of said fork 2f, constituting the steering column 2sc which can be mounted on ball bearings, constituting the headset, through the substantially vertical steering tube 5ht present at the front of frame 5.

Also, the steering tube 5ht advantageously has a slot, that is to say an orifice or through hole, allowing the insertion and a rotational movement of the steering column 2sc within it.

The steering column 2sc constituting the axis of rotation, the steering tube 5ht then serves as axis support and provides guidance in rotation, said steering column 2sc and the steering tube consisting of two coaxial elements.

Ball bearings make up the headset.

The upper end of the fork 2f and/or of the steering column 2sc constitutes a stem to which a handlebar 2hb can be fixed.

The steering column 2sc, the fork 2f and the handlebar 2hb thus cooperate respectively two by two according to suitable mechanical connections 3, preferably but not litnitatively embedding, so as to constitute a set or system 2 of direction, thus allowing a user to the bicycle 1 to orient the trajectory and/or to direct the latter, the rotation to the left or to the right of the handlebar 2hb, directly causing the rotation of the fork 2f and consequently of the front wheel 3f, the axis of the front wheel 3f being fixed with respect to the fork 2f, the changes of direction being transmitted through the steering column 2sc.

[0008] The energy to move a bicycle 1 is generally provided by a user of the latter, through his legs, which he presses his feet on 4p pedals.

Such pedals 4p are thus connected to one or more serrated plates at the level of the pedal assembly, referred to as one or more plates 4cr, by means of connecting rods 4ca.

The drive of the rear wheel is generally achieved by means of one or more sprockets 4sp, generally called a "derailleur", mounted on said rear wheel 3r, generally by a non-return pawl mechanism.

The rear wheel 3r is thus qualified as a freewheel.

The transmission of movement between a 4cr plate and a 4sp pinion is conventionally ensured by a 4c chain.

All of the elements 4cr, 4ca, 4c, 4sp, comprised between the pedals 4p and the rear wheel 3r, are thus called transmissions.

[0009] Their popularity and, in some cases, their prices, make bicycles a preferred target for thieves.

Indeed, no less than four hundred thousand bicycles disappear each year in France.

Faced with this resurgence of thefts, bicycle users are trying as best they can to prevent such thefts.

To do this, such bicycle users make use of anti-theft type devices, i.e. devices or mechanisms, separate from or integrated into said bicycles, intended to prevent, deter, delay, signal or prevent the theft of said bicycles.

The action of such anti-theft devices for bicycles is generally removable.

At present, there are many types of locks generally physically implemented by a user of said bicycle 1.

Mainly, such a physical implementation of bicycle locks consists in blocking the movement of so-called essential parts of the bicycle, such as the frame 5 or the rear wheel 3r, and/or in reducing or even eliminating the possibility of moving said bicycle 1.

Today, to be effective, the known anti-theft devices must generally form a link, that is to say cooperate according to any suitable mechanical connection, with an immovable element, such as, for example, street furniture or a permanent element. bicycle parking spaces, such as bike racks or bike racks.

[0010] Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a first non-limiting embodiment of a known anti-theft device, generally intended to be used in connection with a bicycle 1.

Such an anti-theft device 10, qualified as a “U” anti-theft device. is independent and distinct from bicycle 1.

Said anti-theft device 10 advantageously comprises a curved steel bar 11 in the shape of a "U", said steel bar 11 being locked at its two ends by a lock block 12.

Before locking the steel bar of a known anti-theft device, it is inserted between two spokes 3s of a wheel 3r of the bicycle 1 or in the center of the first structure 5dt, 5tt and 5st of the frame 5, or any other suitable element of the bicycle 1, then around all or part of the non-removable element mentioned above, so that the locked steel bar 11 of the said anti-theft device 10 encases or surrounds an element of the bicycle 1 and all or part of the immovable element and that ultimately the bicycle 1 cannot be moved.

Such a U-shaped anti-theft device 10 currently constitutes the most popular protection as a separate anti-theft device, in particular because it presents a good compromise in terms of resistance in relation to weight and/or price. .

Nevertheless, such a U-shaped anti-theft device is generally relatively heavy, of the order of approximately one kilogram and sometimes difficult to put in place due to its rigidity.

[0011] As specified above, there is now a plethora of anti-theft devices, the operation of which is similar to that of the example of an anti-theft device described in connection with FIG. or part thereof is arranged to capture an element of the bicycle 1 and all or part of an irremovable element, so as to prevent the bicycle from moving unexpectedly.

By way of non-limiting examples, mention may be made in particular of: - chain anti-theft devices, consisting of a set of steel links united by a padlock: the resistance of such chain anti-theft devices depends mainly on the diameter of the links of steel ; - the so-called "snake" cable anti-theft devices, consisting of a plurality of braided steel wires, possibly spiral, enclosed in a plastic protective sheath: such devices generally do not resist the attack of more than a few seconds tools of small dimensions; - anti-theft devices with cables with reinforcement or articulated called "boas or pythons", consisting of anti-theft devices with cables, covered with articulated steel reinforcements, reducing the ease of deterioration of said cable of such devices.

However, such devices do not achieve the protection offered by U-shaped anti-theft devices, although offering easier installation, a chain anti-theft device, consisting of a set of links; - “foldable” anti-theft devices.

[0012]Although offering solutions for deterring bicycle theft, such anti-theft devices mentioned above generally turn out to be easily lockable due to the presence of locks.

To overcome such a drawback, researchers have developed connected or "intelligent" anti-theft devices, lockable and unlockable without a key, said anti-theft devices comprising at least a processing unit and wireless communication means, so as to be able to exchange, c that is to say, mainly to receive messages from a remote electronic device, such as for example a smart mobile phone (also called a “smartphone” in English terminology), locking and/or unlocking said anti-theft device or even notification messages in the event of an attempt to steal said bicycle.

By way of non-limiting examples, such connected anti-theft devices can consist of “U” anti-theft devices.

Nevertheless, whether said anti-theft devices are connected or not, the anti-theft devices described above are very often the target of malicious damage.

Such damage may in particular consist of attempting to saw, cut or break, depending on the type of anti-theft device used, the steel bar, the links or even the braided wires.

Once the anti-theft devices are broken, it is relatively easy for a thief to take the bicycle away without even being worried.

To compensate for such damage, alternatively or in addition, other anti-theft devices qualified as fixed, nevertheless always distinct from the bicycle, the purpose of which is to prevent or prevent the theft of certain parts of the bicycle and/or render the latter unusable, are employable.

Unlike the anti-theft devices previously presented, the objective is therefore not to fix the bicycle to a permanent element.

By way of non-limiting examples, such anti-theft devices may comprise a frame anti-theft device or "Dutch" anti-theft device in the shape of a horseshoe, generally fixed to the frame of the bicycle and making it possible to lock the rear wheel, by intermediary of a steel bar passing between two spokes of said wheel.

Nevertheless, such anti-theft devices qualified as fixed, when they are not coupled with another distinct anti-theft device previously presented, that is to say fixed to permanent elements, have the disadvantage of not preventing for one or several thieves to discreetly take away the bicycle.

Once hidden out of sight, the thief or thieves can thus have every opportunity to destroy and/or cut the fixed anti-theft device.

[0013] In the 1930s, the inventor Abram NEIMAN created an anti-theft device, intended for its part to cooperate with a steering column of a motor vehicle.

Such an anti-theft device consists of a mechanical system comprising seventy-five different miniaturized parts.

Said anti-theft device according to Abram NEIMAN comprises for this purpose a cylindrical element cooperating with the steering column of said motorized vehicle according to a mechanical embedding connection, such as for example by welding, within which a key cylinder slides.

Such a barrel can thus, at one of its ends, comprise or cooperate with a bolt coupled to a return spring 6, said bolt being arranged to engage, after actuation of the key, in a recess or a striker made on the steering column, and consequently, to block the steering column.

Although offering an anti-theft type solution commonly used in the field of motor vehicles, the anti-theft device according to Abram NEIMAN also has a certain number of drawbacks.

Indeed, it works from the outside inwards, since the lock of said anti-theft device is visible and thus exposed to vandalism.

In addition, the barrel of such an anti-theft device being generally made of brass, it is relatively easy for an ill-intentioned third party to pick it and/or damage it, so that said anti-theft device becomes inoperative.

[0014] Faced with all these drawbacks, three Chilean inventors attempted to develop a bicycle which they considered to be "impossible" to steal.

To do this, said Chilean inventors made adaptations of a conventional bicycle and created, within said bicycle, an integrated anti-theft device, as described in document US2016/0311484 Al.

To do this, the diagonal tube of the first frame structure is advantageously formed of two segments, said segments cooperating together solidly according to an advantageously reversible recessed mechanical connection.

A locking bar, possibly telescopic and possibly cooperating with the saddle, is advantageously contained within the saddle tube.

Once the two segments of the diagonal tube have been separated and the locking bar has come out of the saddle tube, the two ends of the locking ban-e can cooperate solidly according to suitable mechanical connections with respectively each free end of the two segments of the diagonal tube, thus forming a new closed structure.

It is thus possible to place this new closed structure around a permanent furniture element or more generally a permanent element, as mentioned previously, so as to prevent the movement of the bicycle.

Although offering improvements in terms of security of anti-theft devices and in terms of speed of installation, such an integrated anti-theft device also presents inconveniences.

Indeed, said integrated anti-theft device cannot be adapted or added to an already existing bicycle, since the structure and arrangement of said anti-theft device requires a particular arrangement.

If a bicycle user wishes to obtain an integrated anti-theft device of this type, he is, consequently, obliged to purchase a new bicycle.

In addition, although offering an ingenious configuration, the integrated anti-theft device requires the use of a bolt in the form of a lock, which is, like the previously known anti-theft devices, by nature pickable.

The invention makes it possible to respond to all or part of the drawbacks raised by the known solutions. 7

[0016] Among the many advantages provided by the invention, we can mention that it makes it possible to: - provide an anti-theft device integrated into the bicycle, almost inviolable, the implementation of which, advantageously mechanical and/or electrical, is very easy and very fast; - offer a compact, concealable anti-theft device with no visible lock, adaptable to a large number of cycles, whether motorized or not;

According to a first object, there is in particular provided an anti-theft device for a cycle comprising two substantially coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame of said cycle, the male element being mounted rotatably relative to the female element.

To suppress any rotational movement between said male and female elements, an anti-theft device for a cycle comprises means arranged to block the rotary stroke of the male element relative to the female element in response to a determined triggering event.

[0018] Advantageously but not limitingly, in order to avoid any unexpected deterioration or destruction and prevent any additional bulk of an anti-theft device according to the invention, the latter can be arranged to be inserted within the frame of the cycle. .

According to a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of an anti-theft device according to the invention, the means arranged to block the rotary stroke of such a device may comprise a blocking element mounted movable in translation along an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution of the male and female elements and arranged to fit into a recess made in the male element.

[0020] Advantageously but not limited to, to trigger the actuation of an anti-theft device according to the invention, the latter may comprise an actuator cooperating with said locking element and designed to cause the translation of said locking element.

To reduce the risk of theft and improve the effectiveness of an anti-theft device according to the invention, preferably but not limited to, the actuator of said anti-theft device can be arranged to cause the translation of the element of one-way blocking blocking.

According to a first advantageous but non-limiting embodiment, the actuator of an anti-theft device according to the invention can be mechanically controlled.

As a variant or in addition, according to a second advantageous but non-limiting embodiment, an anti-theft device according to the invention may comprise a processing unit, said processing unit being arranged to develop and generate an actuation command to the actuator according to a determined trigger event, said actuator being electrically controlled and capable of interpreting the command generated by the processing unit.

To facilitate r actuation of the locking element of an anti-theft device according to the invention, as a variant or in addition, such an anti-theft device may further comprise a sensor cooperating with said processing unit and delivering to said processing unit a measurement of a physical quantity representative of a speed, an acceleration or a movement of the cycle.

In this case, the processing unit of said anti-theft device is arranged to compare the measurement of the physical quantity with a determined threshold and the triggering event consists of a comparison attesting to a measurement of said physical quantity substantially also at said determined threshold.

In order to allow the remote actuation of an anti-theft device according to the invention, by means of any suitable electronic device, such an anti-theft device may comprise or cooperate with communication means capable of receiving a control signal emitted by a remote electronic entity, said processing unit being suitable for interpreting said command signal as a determined triggering event.

Advantageously but not limitingly, the sensor of an anti-theft device according to the invention may comprise an accelerometer and/or a gyroscope.

[0027] To warn a user who owns a cycle of a possible theft attempt, an anti-theft device according to the invention can, as a variant or in addition, comprise or cooperate with an output man-machine interface arranged to deliver a sound and/or light signal perceptible by a human subject, the processing unit being adapted to actuate said output interface according to the determined triggering event.

According to a second object, the invention relates to a cycle comprising two elements, respectively male and female, substantially coaxial cylindrical, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame of said cycle, the male element being mounted rotatably relative to the female element.

To reduce or even prevent any attempted theft, a conforming cycle comprises an anti-theft device conforming to the first object of the invention.

[0029] Preferably, but not exclusively, the male element of a cycle according to the invention may consist of a steering column and the female element of a steering tube.

[0030] Other characteristics and advantages will appear more clearly on reading the following description and on examining the accompanying figures, including:

[0031] [fig.1], previously described, represents an embodiment of a vehicle in the form of a bicycle 9

[0032] [fig.2], previously described, schematically shows a view of a known embodiment of an anti-theft device for a bicycle;

schematically shows an exploded and detailed view of a bicycle provided with an anti-theft device according to the invention;

[0034] [fig.4A] schematically shows a perspective view of a first non-limiting embodiment of an anti-theft device for a bicycle according to the invention;

[0035] [fig.413] schematically presents a side view of a first non-limiting embodiment of an anti-theft device for a bicycle according to the invention, when the latter is inactive;

[0036] [fig.4C] schematically presents a side view of a first non-limiting embodiment of an anti-theft device for a bicycle in accordance with the invention, when the latter is active;

[0037] [fig.5A] schematically presents a detailed view of a bicycle provided with an anti-theft device according to the invention, when the latter is active;

[0038] [fig.513] schematically presents a detailed view of a bicycle provided with an anti-theft device according to the invention, when the latter is inactive

[0039] An anti-theft device for a cycle according to the invention will be described, in the rest of the document, in the context of an application in connection with a bicycle, more particularly to block any rotational movement of the steering column within of the steering tube of such a bicycle.

However, the invention cannot be limited to this single embodiment.

As a variant, such an anti-theft device could be used to block the rotation of two substantially coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame of the bicycle, the male element being mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the female element, such as, by way of non-limiting examples, the rotation of the crankset, of a wheel hub or more generally of the wheel.

Furthermore, still as a variant or in addition, an anti-theft device in accordance with the invention could cooperate with or be included within any other cycle, more particularly within the framework of such a cycle, that is to say any vehicle or means of locomotion, with or without a motor (in the case of a motorized cycle, we will then speak of "motorcycles"), comprising a plurality of wheels, that is to say at least two or more wheels, such that, for example, bicycles, scooters, tricycles, velomobiles, quachicycles, draisiennes, etc., such a vehicle, when it has no engine, being human-powered, that is to say moved by a single force generated by the respective physical effort(s) of a driver and/or passengers, whose rotational movements it is desired to block between two coaxial male and female elements, such coaxial elements possibly being included within the system steering, pedals or the hub of a wheel.

More broadly, the invention could be applied to any system for which it is desired to block the rotational movements between two elements, respectively male and female, coaxial cylindrical, the male element being mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the female element, such as for example, the hinge and the hinge of a door, a gate or a window.

[0040] Figure 3 schematically shows an exploded and detailed view of a bicycle provided with a non-limiting embodiment of an anti-theft device according to the invention, when the latter is arranged and consequently used for block the rotary stroke of the steering column as a male element within the steering tube as a female element, and thus more generally block any movement of the steering system of said bicycle 1.

A bicycle 1 according to the invention, that is to say comprising an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention, mainly comprises the elements of a known bicycle 1, of which a non-limiting embodiment has been previously described in connection with Figure 1.

Such a bicycle 1 thus comprises a frame 5, of which only part of the horizontal 5tt and diagonal 5dt tubes are represented, for the purpose of simplification.

Similarly, only part of the fork 2f of the steering assembly 2 is shown to illustrate the embodiment of said anti-theft device.

According to the exemplary embodiment of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention described in connection with FIG. 3, said anti-theft device 20 can advantageously take the form of a cartridge, that is to say an element or object having a substantially slender and tubular casing, having dimensions, in particular in terms of length and diameter or more generally in terms of volume, smaller than those of the horizontal tube 5tt, so as to allow the insertion of such an anti-theft device 20 within such a horizontal tube 5tt, said anti-theft device 20 being ultimately inserted and concealed within the frame 5 of the bicycle 1.

The use of such a shape and such dimensions proves to be particularly advantageous, since it allows the use of the anti-theft device 20 in connection with a very large number of bicycles already existing on the market, the adaptation of such a bicycle 1 consisting mainly in creating an orifice or through hole 5o within the steering tube 5ht, so that the anti-theft device 20 can be placed within the horizontal tube 5tt, and possibly making a blind hole or a recess 2sco on the steering column 2sc, such a blind hole or recess 2sco being arranged to accommodate an element of the anti-theft device 20, thus making it possible to make the anti-theft device 20 and the steering column 2sc integral and finally to guarantee the blocking of any rotational movement of the steering column 2sc by the anti-theft device 20 with respect to the steering tube 5ht.

To ensure concealment of an anti-theft device 20 within a bicycle 1 in accordance with the invention and thus avoid any attempt to damage or destroy said anti-theft device 20, said bicycle 1 in accordance with the invention may comprise a plug or a cap 27 arranged, by its dimensions and its structure, to hide the orifice 5o made on the steering tube 5ht of said bicycle 1.

Such a plug or cap 27 can advantageously be screwed or sealed, so that only an informed operator or the owner of the bicycle 1 can access the anti-theft device 20 and thus avoid any damage or unexpected alteration of the anti-theft device 20.

The invention cannot, however, be limited to this single shape and these single cartridge dimensions for the anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention, as described in connection with FIG. 3 or even to the adaptations of the bicycle 1 mentioned above and carried out in the context of the use of an anti-theft device 20 in the form of such a cartridge.

Indeed, depending on the elements whose rotational movements are to be blocked, such as for example the crankset, more particularly the chainring(s) 4cr and the connecting rod 4ca, or even the wheel hub 4wh, the invention provides that the dimensions and the form of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention can be adapted and/or arranged with said elements.

[0042] Figures 4A to 4C respectively represent respective schematic views of a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention, respectively in perspective view, in inactive mode, that is to say say when the latter is out of operation, not ensuring its function of blocking rotational movements of the steering column within the steering tube, and in active mode, that is to say when the latter is in working order, thus performing its function of blocking rotational movements of the steering column within the steering tube.

According to Figures 4A to 4C and as previously described in connection with Figure 3, in particular to facilitate the adaptation of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention within a bicycle 1 already existing on the market, said bicycle anti-theft device 20 is in the form of a cartridge.

To this end, such an anti-theft device 20 advantageously comprises a casing 21 or substantially tubular and slender guide, arranged to accommodate the various elements of the anti-theft device 20.

An anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention comprises means arranged, more particularly structurally, to block the rotary stroke of the male element, more particularly according to our embodiment the steering column 2sc, relative to the female element, more particularly according to our embodiment the 5ht steering tube.

Indeed, to steer the bicycle, the rotational movements are generally transmitted from the handlebars 2hb to the front wheel 3f, by the rotation of the steering column 2sc within the steering tube 5ht along the axis of revolution (Ar) of said steering column 2sc and said steering tube 5ht.

The locking means of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention are thus structurally arranged so as to be made integral with the steering column 2sc, then creating a mechanical connection of the embedding type and thus eliminating any degree of freedom in rotation. of the steering column 2sc within the steering tube 5ht.

Such blocking of the steering column 5sc, or more generally of a male element is advantageously implemented in response to a determined triggering event, that is to say an actuation command.

Such a triggering event can advantageously be caused manually following a human interaction or automatically in response to predefined situations, as we will describe them later.

According to a preferred but non-limiting exemplary embodiment of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention, described in particular in connection with FIGS. 4A to 4C, the means arranged to block the rotary stroke may comprise a blocking element 22 mounted movable in translation along an axis (Ap) substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution (Ar) of the steering column 2sc and of the steering tube 5ht.

The use of a blocking element 22 mounted to move in translation proves to be particularly advantageous, since it makes it possible in particular to simplify the arrangement of the anti-theft device and consequently the manufacture of said anti-theft device 20.

In addition, the dimensions of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention being generally imposed by the structure of the frame 5, since said anti-theft device 20 is arranged to be inserted into said frame, the materialization of a movement in translation, with regard to of a rotational movement, makes it possible in particular to reduce the size induced by the elements embodying said translation.

To eliminate any degree of freedom between the anti-theft device 20 and the steering column 2sc, said locking element is advantageously arranged to fit into the recess or blind hole 2sco made in the steering column 2sc.

Thus, said blocking element 22 and the recess 2sco are mutually arranged, by their structures and their dimensions, to cooperate together and ensure their assembly.

According to FIGS. 4A to 4C, to facilitate the manufacture of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention, such a locking element 22 can advantageously consist of a rod, a bolt or even a key, having a cylindrical shape and a section substantially circular.

The recess 2sco made within the steering column 2sc can then have a substantially complementary shape and a section whose dimensions and shape are substantially equal to or greater than those of the blocking element 22.

The invention cannot, however, be limited to these previously mentioned examples of blocking element or more generally of means arranged to block the rotary stroke.

Any element to provide an identical or similar function, that is to say capable of making the anti-theft device 20 and the male element of a set of two coaxial cylindrical male and female elements integral, may instead be used . 13

As mentioned previously, one of the objectives of the invention consists in ensuring the blocking of the rotary stroke of the steering column 2sc within the steering tube 5ht according to a determined triggering event, that is to say say as specified above, in response to an actuation command.

To this end, an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention may comprise an actuator 23,24,25 cooperating integrally with said locking element 22 and designed to cause the translation of said locking element 22.

Such an actuator allows a user of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention or more generally of a bicycle or a cycle to cause, in due time and according to a determined event, the translation of a locking element 22 and ultimately to ensure more effective immobilization of the bicycle or cycle.

Two non-limiting examples of actuators of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention will be described later in the rest of the document.

The cooperation between the actuator 23,24,25 and the blocking element 22 can be ensured by any element or means capable of associating and/or placing said means in communication.

The cooperation between such an actuator and such a blocking element advantageously depends on the respective natures and/or structures of said actuator and blocking element.

By way of non-limiting examples, such cooperation can advantageously be embodied by a suitable mechanical connection.

As a variant, such an actuator and such a blocking element can cooperate with the aid of suitable communication means, allowing in particular electric, magnetic or electromagnetic communication.

The invention cannot thus be limited to the nature of the element or elements which guarantee such cooperation or even of the respective physical natures of the actuator and/or blocking element.

Preferably but not limited to, to reduce the risk of theft and improve the effectiveness of an anti-theft device according to the invention, the actuator 23,24,25 of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention can be arranged to cause the translation of the locking element 22 in a single locking direction, so as to allow the insertion of the locking element 22 in the recess 2sco formed within the steering column 2sc.

A one-way blocking makes it possible in particular to avoid any fraudulent attempt to open the anti-theft device and requires a precise maintenance operation carried out by a chosen operator, by means of a tool adapted and/or dedicated to such a maintenance operation. .

The owner or user of the bicycle will not be able to “unlock” the anti-theft device by himself or by himself.

As such, the actuator and/or the blocking element of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention can advantageously be arranged so as not to cause the blocking element to be withdrawn from its housing on request. male element after activation of the anti-theft device.

Only a maintenance operation can recover the mobility of said male and female elements. 14

According to a first embodiment, not shown in the figures, the ractionncur of an anti-theft device according to the invention can be mechanically controlled, that is to say be operable or actuated by means of a mechanical element or part.

According to this first embodiment, the actuator is then arranged to produce one or more mechanical commands, such as for example a force then causing a movement and a mechanical contact.

By way of example, such an actuator may comprise or cooperate with a moving mechanical part arranged to trigger the release of a previously tensioned spring, causing the translation of the dc blocking element.

As a variant, such an actuator can comprise or cooperate with a crank 23 cooperating according to a recessed mechanical connection with the blocking element 22.

As a variant or always in addition, said actuator can comprise or cooperate with a button, possibly a push button.

The invention cannot, however, be limited solely to the examples of embodiments mentioned above.

Any part capable of mechanically actuating such an anti-theft device or providing a substantially identical function may be used instead.

Alternatively, according to a second generally preferred embodiment of an anti-theft device according to the invention, the actuator of the latter can be electrically controlled, that is to say be operable or actuated by means of a determined electrical signal produced by an electrical or electronic element or object.

Such an actuator is then responsible for sending an electric pulse, thus making it possible to finally move the blocking element.

As already mentioned, the actuator of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention, cooperating with the blocking element 22, is advantageously arranged or designed to cause the translation of the said blocking element 22 in response to a determined triggering event.

To do this, such an anti-theft device 20 comprises a processing unit, for example in the form of one or more microcontrollers or microprocessors.

Such a processing unit is advantageously arranged to develop and generate an actuation command in the form of a determined electrical signal that can be interpreted by the actuator of said anti-theft device in response to a determined triggering event, said electrical signal being interpretable by such a actuator as being an actuation command of the latter.

According to a preferred but non-limiting embodiment of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention, the actuator of the latter can advantageously comprise an electric motor 25, generally coupled to a reduction gear 24, the “motor-reduction gear” assembly. being commonly referred to as a geared motor, thus allowing the transmission of the actuation command to the locking element 22, by means of a crank or a cam 23.

Alternatively, the invention provides that the geared motor of the actuator can be replaced, according to another embodiment, by an electromagnet or even an electric motor coupled to a worm.

The invention cannot be limited to the system or element allowing the electrical actuation of the locking element 22 of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention.

Let us now describe a non-exhaustive list of examples of triggering events allowing the electrically controlled actuation of a locking element of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention.

According to a first non-limiting example, such a triggering event may consist of a comparison attesting to a measurement of a physical quantity substantially equal to a determined threshold.

To do this, an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention may comprise, or optionally cooperate with, one or more measurement sensors, such measurement sensors also cooperating with said processing unit and delivering to the latter a measurement of a physical quantity representative of the trajectory or of any movement or even of any immobility of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention and more generally of the bicycle 1 or of the cycle in which said anti-theft device 20 is inserted.

Thus, such an anti-theft device 20 could possibly be triggered following a somewhat too abrupt movement of the bicycle 1, thus attesting to an obvious theft of the bicycle, or after stopping all movement of the said bicycle 1, so as to avoid the risk of unexpected inactivation likely to cause an accident.

As a variant or in addition, such a sensor can measure the speed or even the acceleration of such an anti-theft device 20 and more generally of the bicycle 1 or of the cycle in which said anti-theft device 20 is inserted.

By way of non-limiting examples, such a sensor can consist of one or more accelerometers and/or gyroscopes.

As a variant or in addition to an accelerometer and/or a gyroscope, the sensor(s) may comprise an inertial unit, generally comprising three gyrometers and three accelerometers, or even a system 26 of geolocation of the GPS type ("Global Positioning System according to English terminology), said control unit and/or said system advantageously cooperating with the actuator of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention.

Said sensor advantageously cooperates with said processing unit by means of internal communication buses.

The processing unit is then arranged to compare the measurement of the physical quantity with a predetermined threshold.

To do this, an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention may comprise or cooperate with a data memory cooperating with said processing unit by means of internal communication buses.

Before any displacement of a cycle within which an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention is inserted or concealed, said predetermined threshold can optionally be written within the data memory.

When said measurement reaches said threshold, the processing unit is arranged to generate an actuation command, in the form of one or more electrical signals, intended for the actuator, 16 requiring the controlled triggering of the translation of the blocking element via the actuator.

As previously mentioned, to do this, the actuator is electrically controlled and capable of interpreting an actuation command generated by the processing unit.

[0051] According to a second non-limiting example, such a triggering event may consist of a command signal produced and/or emitted by a remote electronic entity, such as for example a smart mobile telephone (also known by the Anglo-Saxon name "Stnariphone “), a computer tablet (also known by the Anglo-Saxon name “Digilal Table!”), and/or a personal computer.

To do this, an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention may comprise, or possibly cooperate with, communication means 26, such communication means also cooperating with said processing unit by means of internal communication buses, and being capable of receiving a control signal encoded in the form of a determined message and transmitted by said remote electronic entity.

Said processing unit is then suitable for interpreting said command signal as a determined triggering event.

Said means of communication can thus provide communication, possibly wired or wireless, to any remote electronic entity within communication range.

Such communication means can also be of the "long distance or range" type and allow such an anti-theft device 20 to be able to receive from said remote entity, one or more control signals through messages distributed by an operating network, for example , GPRS, Sigfox or satellite technologies, in the event that said communication takes place wirelessly.

As a variant or in addition, such communication means can also be arranged to determine the current geolocation of the bicycle 1 or of the cycle comprising said anti-theft device 20.

To this end, said means of communication can ensure reception of reference messages transmitted, according to a wireless link, by a satellite system, such as, in a non-exhaustive manner, the GPS system, also known by the Anglo-Saxon terminology “Global Positioning System”, the GLONASS system or the Galileo system.

Such systems consist of a constellation of satellites offering a terrestrial user a plurality of satellites within communication range.

The means of communication thus make it possible to receive reference messages, in the form of signals emitted by said plurality of satellites, to translate them and to transmit them to the processing unit, responsible for calculating a terrestrial position from (said messages of reference thus received.

To warn a user owning a cycle of a possible theft attempt, an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention may, as a variant or in addition, comprise or cooperate with an output interface arranged to deliver a signal 17 sound and / or light perceptible to a human subject, said subject may or may not be close to said anti-theft device.

Such an output interface, which we can qualify in this case as a “man-machine interface”, can for example consist of one or more light-emitting diodes possibly positioned on the frame of the cycle.

As a variant or in addition, such an output interface can comprise a loudspeaker capable of emitting a characteristic sound signal.

In this case, the processing unit of an anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention can be advantageously adapted to actuate said output interface in response to a determined triggering event, such as, for example, as soon as the aforementioned sensor delivers a measure equal to a predetermined threshold, while the blocking element is optionally activated, thus alerting a user of the bicycle or of the cycle of any displacement or attempted theft of the latter or of the latter.

Also, to allow the operation of an anti-theft device 20 according to the invention, that is to say that the processing unit can cause the triggering of the locking element 22 of said anti-theft device 20, the device comprises a source of electrical energy, in the form of one or more batteries for example.

The capacity to be able to communicate or quite simply to be able to operate of an anti-theft device is directly linked to the remaining and available energy capacity of said anti-theft device.

Finally, as mentioned above, the invention also relates to a cycle 1, comprising two substantially coaxial male and female cylindrical elements, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame 5 of said cycle, or alternatively being included within said frame the male element being mounted rotatably relative to the female element.

To reduce the risk of theft or attempted theft by proposing an anti-theft device integrated into the bicycle, concealable and without visible lock, almost indestructible, the implementation of which, advantageously mechanical and/or electrical, is very easy and very quick, a cycle according to the invention comprises an anti-theft device according to the first object of the invention.

11 is well known that a cycle driver cannot move easily with his cycle without a steering assembly, since such a steering assembly has the main purpose of guiding the cycle and consequently its driver.

To this end, according to a preferred but non-limiting embodiment described in particular in connection with FIGS. 5A and 5B, the male element may consist of a steering column 2sc of a cycle 1 and the female element of a tube of Shi direction of the same cycle 1.

FIGS. 5A and 5B schematically show detailed views of a bicycle provided with an anti-theft device according to the invention, when the latter is arranged to be used in connection with the steering column and the steering tube, in modes respectively active and inactive.

According to FIG. 5B, when the anti-theft device 20 is in inactive operating mode, the blocking element 22 of said anti-theft device 20, mounted to move in translation along an axis (Ap) substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution (Ar) of the steering column 2sc and of the steering tube Sht, does not cooperate with the recess or blind hole 2sco made in the steering column 2sc of the bicycle.

The steering column 2sc can freely move in rotation within the steering tube Sht, allowing a rider of a bicycle to orient himself freely.

According to figure SA, when the anti-theft device 20 is in active operating mode, the locking element 22 of said anti-theft device 20, mounted to move in translation along an axis (Ap) substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution (Ar) of the steering column 2sc and the steering tube Sht, is advantageously inserted into the recess or blind hole 2sco made in the steering column 2sc of the bicycle.

Any relative rotational movement between the steering column 2sc and the steering tube Mit is thus blocked.

The invention cannot be limited to the embodiments described above.

As a variant, such an anti-theft device could be used to block the rotation of any other two substantially coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame of the bicycle, the male element being mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the female element, such as, by way of non-limiting examples, the two coaxial male and female elements of a crankset, of a wheel hub or more generally of the wheel.

Furthermore, still as a variant or in addition, an anti-theft device in accordance with the invention could cooperate with or be included within any other cycle, more particularly within the framework of such a cycle, that is to say any vehicle or means of locomotion, with or without a motor (in the case of a motorized cycle, we will then speak of "motorcycles"), comprising a plurality of wheels, the rotational movements of which are to be blocked between two coaxial male and female elements , such coaxial elements possibly being included within the steering system, the pedal assembly or even the hub of a wheel.

More broadly, the invention could be applied to any system in which it is desired to block the rotational movements between two coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the male element being mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the female element, such as, for example, the hinge and the hinge of a door, a gate or a window. 19

Claims (1)

CLAIMS [Claim I] Anti-theft device (20) for cycle (I), said cycle (1) comprising two substantially coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame (5) of said cycle, the male element being mounted rotatably relative to the female element, said anti-theft device (20) being characterized in that it comprises means arranged to block the rotary stroke of the male element relative to the female element in response to an event specific trigger. [Claim 2] Anti-theft device (20) according to the preceding claim, said anti-theft device (20) being arranged to be inserted within the frame (5) of the cycle (1). [Claim 3] Anti-theft device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, for which the means arranged to block the rotary stroke comprise a blocking element (22) mounted movable in translation along an axis (Ap) substantially perpendicular to the axis of revolution (Ar) of the male and female elements and arranged to fit into a recess made in the male element. [Claim 4] Anti-theft device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an actuator (25) cooperating with the said blocking element (22) and designed to cause the translation of the said blocking element (22). [Claim 5] Anti-theft device (20) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, for the actuator (25) is arranged to cause the translation of the locking element (22) in a single locking direction. [Claim 6] Anti-theft device (20) according to any one of Claims 4 or 5, for which the actuator (25) is mechanically controlled. [Claim 7] Anti-theft device (20) according to any one of claims 4 or 5, comprising a processing unit (26), said processing unit (26) being arranged to develop and generate an actuation command intended for the actuator (25) according to a determined triggering event, said actuator (25) being electrically controlled and capable of interpreting the command generated by the processing unit. [Claim 8] Anti-theft device (20) according to claim 5: - further comprising a sensor (26) cooperating with said processing unit and delivering to said processing unit a measurement of a physical quantity representative of a speed, an acceleration or 20 [Claim 9] [Claim 10] [Claim 11] [Claim 12] [Claim 13] of a movement of the cycle; - said processing unit is arranged to compare the measurement of the physical quantity with a determined threshold; - the triggering event consists of a comparison attesting to a measurement of said physical quantity substantially also at said determined threshold. Anti-theft device (20) according to claim 6, for which the sensor comprises an accelerometer and/or a gyroscope. Anti-theft device (20) according to claim 5, comprising or cooperating with communication means capable of receiving a command signal emitted by a remote electronic entity, said processing unit being suitable for interpreting said command signal as a triggering event determined. Anti-theft device (20) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, comprising or cooperating with an output interface arranged to deliver a sound and/or light signal perceptible by a human subject, the processing unit being adapted to actuate said output interface according to the determined trigger event. Cycle (1), comprising two substantially coaxial cylindrical male and female elements, the female element cooperating integrally with the frame (5) of said cycle, the male element being mounted so as to be able to rotate relative to the female element, characterized in that it comprises an anti-theft device (20) in accordance with claims 1 to 11. Cycle (1) according to the preceding claim, for which the male element consists of a steering column (2sc) and the female element of a steering tube (5 hours).