NL2031286B1 - Electric bicycle and service port for use in such an electric bicycle - Google Patents
Electric bicycle and service port for use in such an electric bicycle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NL2031286B1 NL2031286B1 NL2031286A NL2031286A NL2031286B1 NL 2031286 B1 NL2031286 B1 NL 2031286B1 NL 2031286 A NL2031286 A NL 2031286A NL 2031286 A NL2031286 A NL 2031286A NL 2031286 B1 NL2031286 B1 NL 2031286B1
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- Prior art keywords
- bicycle
- service port
- port
- control unit
- service
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- 230000005291 magnetic effect Effects 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000005294 ferromagnetic effect Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 8
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000021615 conjugation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000881 depressing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007257 malfunction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
- B62M6/00—Rider propulsion of wheeled vehicles with additional source of power, e.g. combustion engine or electric motor
- B62M6/40—Rider propelled cycles with auxiliary electric motor
- B62M6/45—Control or actuating devices therefor
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62M—RIDER PROPULSION OF WHEELED VEHICLES OR SLEDGES; POWERED PROPULSION OF SLEDGES OR SINGLE-TRACK CYCLES; TRANSMISSIONS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SUCH VEHICLES
- B62M6/00—Rider propulsion of wheeled vehicles with additional source of power, e.g. combustion engine or electric motor
- B62M6/80—Accessories, e.g. power sources; Arrangements thereof
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Electric Propulsion And Braking For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to an electric vehicle, in particular an electric bicycle. The invention also relates to a service port for use in a bicycle according to the 5 invention. The invention further relates to a bicycle control unit comprising at least one service port for use in a bicycle according to the invention. The invention further relates to a bicycle servicing system comprising at least one bicycle according to the invention and at least one service terminal.
Description
Electric bicycle and service port for use in such an electric bicycle
The invention relates to an electric vehicle, in particular an electric bicycle. The invention also relates to a service port for use in a bicycle according to the invention. The invention further relates to a bicycle control unit comprising at least one service port for use in a bicycle according to the invention. The invention further relates to a bicycle servicing system comprising at least one bicycle according to the invention and at least one service terminal.
Over the last 150 years, the bicycle has evolved to become one of the most efficient means of transportation in terms of conversion of energy into distance travelled. The efficiency of the bicycle has also been optimized to minimize the effort required by the rider. For instance, most modern bicycles include an efficient gear system to minimize rider effort. To further reduce the amount of human effort required to propel a bicycle, a variety of electric bicycles (e-bikes) have been introduced, wherein use is made of an electromotor as auxiliary power source to assist the manpowered pedalling process. These developments have resulted in faster bicycles, which facilitates bicycling at high speeds. The electromotor is powered by a rechargeable battery which is typically arranged within a down tube of the bicycle frame. The bicycle as such, and in particular the battery, is typically controlled by a bicycle control unit, which is typically programmed to perform various tasks, such as generating control signals, controlling electric components, converting input signals into a motor output signals, etcetera. The programming of such bicycle control units becomes more and more complicated as the electronic complexity of the bicycle keeps increasing.
It is a fist object of the invention to provide an improved electric bicycle, in particular an electric bicycle, having at least one bicycle control unit which allows servicing.
Itis a second object of the invention to provide an improved electric bicycle, in particular an electric bicycle, having at least one bicycle control unit which allows relatively safe servicing.
it is a third object of the invention to provide an improved electric bicycle, in particular an electric bicycle, having at least one bicycle control unit which allows relatively practical servicing.
This object can be met by providing a bicycle, in particular an electrical bicycle, comprising: - a bicycle frame, - at least one bicycle control unit, directly or indirectly, connected to said bicycle frame, wherein at least one bicycle unit comprises and/or is connected to at least one keyed service port for connecting said bicycle control unit to a keyed external port of a service terminal for servicing said bicycle control unit, wherein the service port is configured to allow connection with the external port in at least one predefined relative orientation only.
The bicycle according to the present invention has several advantageous effects.
First of all, since the service port is configured to allow a connection with the external port in predefined relative positions, it is easy to connect an external port to the service port according to the invention. This may allow for easy coupling of the bicycle control unit with a service terminal in order to provide for easier maintenance. Due to this fit in at least one predefined relative orientation only, it becomes easier to prevent an erroneous connection between the external service port of the service terminal and the service port of the bicycle. Due to these predefined positions it may additionally become safer since it may prevent general connectors from being coupled. Hence, it may prevent that malicious person’s wit traditional external port configurations connect to the bicycle via the service port. As such, only persons having the correct external connecter may connect, via the service port, to the bicycle control unit. To this end it is preferred that the external port of the service terminal is only connectable in one relative orientation with respect to the service port.
The bicycle control unit may be configured for controlling at least a part of the bicycle as such, in particular individual components thereof. The bicycle control unit may control the components based on input received by said bicycle control unit.
Such input may for example be related to sensor data, such as wheel speed, in particular rotations per minute (RPM), battery level, battery temperature, tire pressure, current selected gear, motor power level, and the like. The data received by the bicycle control unit may however also be received as an input from a user, such as for example a button or multiple buttons on the handlebar of the bicycle. Or may be received by a mobile device, such as a telephone of the user. Based on the data received by the bicycle control unit the control unit may compute and/or determine the bicycle status and provide the user with feedback and/or control components of the bicycle, such as the battery. Although the bicycle control unit may be configured to receive over the air updates, it may be required to couple the bicycle control unit to an external device, such as a service terminal, every now and then. Such an external service terminal may be used to read out a log of the bicycle control unit. Said log may as such comprise error codes that have occurred in the past. Since the bicycle control unit comprises sensitive data, such as user related data, and also may comprise geometric related date due to navigation systems, it is not desired that the information becomes in the hands of a malicious person.
It is imaginable that the external service terminal and/or service port, is configured for, at least in connected condition, updating and/or modifying firmware of the bicycle, in particular firmware of the at least one bicycle control unit. Said firmware may for example be updated and/or modified via a wired connection established upon connecting the external service terminal to the service port and/or via a wireless connection between the service port and the external service terminal.
Said wireless connection may allow for example for over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates. lt is also imaginable that the service port is configured and/or used to read data stored in or by the bicycle, to download data from the bicycle, to upload data to the bicycle, to charge at least one battery of the bicycle, such as a battery of at least one bicycle control unit, the adjust bicycle settings, to restart firmware, to initialise bicycle settings and/or firmware, etcetera. Data stored by the bicycle, in particular by at least one control unit, which may be downloaded via the service part may for example be data and/or data logs, including, but not limited to: bicycle status related data, such as historic and/or current power levels, battery state of charge, distance driven, number battery cycles, GPS locations, button inputs, user related settings, error codes, and the like. Said data logs may be used for analysing specific trends in the data log over said predetermined period of time. Preferably, said data logs are encrypted and/or protected by means of access permission rights, such that access to said data logs is limited to authorized people only.
Preferably, also the connection between the service port and the external service terminal is coded, such as encrypted, preferably end-to-end encrypted. It is furthermore conceivable that the external service terminal and/or service port may be used or configured for providing an initial setting, such as an initial control setting, of the bicycle via the service port. That is, the initial settings may be loaded onto the bicycle control unit. This may for example be uploaded during a manufacturing stage of the bicycle, but it may also be possible to upload said initial setting if the bicycle needs a reboot of the system, in particular a reboot of the bicycle control unit. During maintenance, a mechanic may also use the service terminal for accessing and reading error codes. Preferably, a service terminal used by a mechanic is configured such that the mechanic may only access certain parts of the data logs, while other parts of the data logs remain inaccessible to the mechanic. Preferably the external service terminal may be configured to adjust settings, preferably via the connection with the service port, of components of the bicycle. The external service terminal and/or service port may for example be allowed to upload firmware or software, or software updates to other components than the bicycle control unit. Uploading firmware or software, or software updates may be directed via at least one bicycle control unit. That is, software may be uploaded to the bicycle control unit by the external service terminal, via the service port. Subsequently, the bicycle control unit may be configured to adjust software of a plurality (sub-)components of the bicycle.
According to a preferred embodiment the service port comprises at least one magnetic and/or ferromagnetic element configured to co-act with at least one magnetic and/or ferromagnetic element of the external port. Preferably the service port comprises at least two magnets having an opposing exposed polarities. It is conceivable that the external port comprises at least two magnets having an opposing exposed polarities. Exposed polarities should be understood as the polarity of the side of the magnet facing away from the body of the service port, hence the polarity of the side of the magnet visible for the user. lt is also conceivable that to this end a switchable magnet is applied in the service port and/or a switchable magnet is applied in the external port. The switchable magnet may for example be protected such that it may only switch into a magnetised state under predefined conditions. As such undesired coupling of an external port with the service port may be prevented. This may prevent malicious persons with general external ports to connect with the service port of the bicycle. Preferably, when at least two magnets are applied, the magnets mutually enclose a plurality of exposed electrical connectors of the service port. This may allow for a rigid connection between the external port and the service port. The magnets may allow 5 the external port and the service port to be self-seeking, that is, once in a close proximity of each other the opposing polarities attract causing the external port and service port to establish a mutual connection. The magnets may be partially embedded in a common housing or mounting structure of the service port.
According to and an advantageous embodiment an exposed surface of the service port is provided with an, at least partially asymmetric, relief and/or geometry configured to co-act with a mating relief and/or geometry of the externa! port.
Preferably, the asymmetric relief and/or geometry of the service port comprises at least one recessed and/or protruding circumferential edge. It is furthermore conceivable that the relief and/or geometry of the service port comprises at least one radially and/or laterally extending recessed and/or protruding element.
Moreover, the relief and/or geometry of the service port may comprise at least two radially and/or laterally extending recessed and/or protruding elements positioned at a distance from each other, and preferably running parallel or extending in different directions. Preferably, wherein at least one laterally extending recessed and/or protruding element coincides with a lateral axis of the service port. It is also conceivable that at least one laterally extending recessed and/or protruding element is positioned at a distance from a lateral axis of the service port, and preferably runs parallel with said lateral axis. The relief and/or geometry structures allow for a unique fit between the service port and the external port. To this end, the relief and/or geometry are mating, that is, cooperating shapes, or complementary shapes. Preferably, said relief and/or geometry of the service port and the relief and/or geometry of the external port may at least partially enclose, at least in coupled condition, parts of one another. As such, the respective position of the external plug with respect to the service port may be determined.
In a preferred embodiment an exposed surface of the service port comprises a seal, preferably a seal ring, preferably at least partially composed of a resilient material. According to a specific embodiment, the seal is accommodated within a groove of the asymmetric relief and/or geometry. Preferably, said seal is configured for sealing the connection between the service port and an external port in coupled condition. When the service port is connected to an external port it is important that the electronic connections are protected from a surrounding. Hence the seal, in particular the rubber seal may be arranged such that the connectors are sealed by said rubber when the external port is connected to the service port. Preferably, at least a part of the relief and/or geometry of the external port is enclosed by the seal of the service port in a coupled condition. This allows the seal element to establish a seal which is essentially impermeable to water and/or moisture.
Preferably, the service port comprises a plurality of, preferably linearly arranged, electric connectors. Each of the electric connectors may be arranged for a specific purpose, such as power, data or ground connections, and/or a group of electric connectors may be arranged to have a mutual purpose, which may be similar to the above lister purposes. This allows the electric connectors to remain relatively small.
Preferably at least one, more preferably at least two, connectors are configured as electrical power connectors, such as a 5-volt power supply, and wherein at least one, preferably at least two connectors are configured as data connectors. it is imaginable that at least one power supply connector is configured for charging at least one, preferably rechargeable, battery of the bicycle, in particular of at least one control unit. It is conceivable that at least one power supply may e.g. be a 3- volt power supply or a 5-volt power supply, or a 12-volt power supply. It is conceivable that the service port comprises two power supply ports. Said two power supply ports may be configured for supplying different powers, such as a 3- volt and a 5-volt supply. Said power supply may also be configured for powering at least one component, preferably a bicycle control unit, in connected condition of a service terminal to the service port. This may be of benefit if the battery of the bicycle is removed, e.g., during maintenance, and service of the bicycle is required.
The power supply may as such power components of the bicycle to allow said maintenance to be provided for, at least powering the required components. Data connectors may be configured for allowing a data exchange between the service terminal and the bicycle control unit, and the electrical power connectors may be configured for establishing a power connection between the external service terminal the bicycle and/or the bicycle control unit. By arranging the connectors in a linear manner, a relatively thin service port may be established which may be easily located on a part of the bicycle, in particular on the cartridge thereof. Preferably, the service ports comprises a linear array of four electric connectors, wherein two outer connectors are configured as electrical power connectors and two inner connectors are configured as data connectors. It is conceivable that the electrical connectors are configured according to the USB 2.0 standard, and as such comprising a power connector, preferably 5V, a data- connector, a data+ connector, and a ground connector. Preferably, the inner two connectors are the data connectors, and the outer connectors are the power connector and ground connector respectively.
According to an embodiment an exposed surface of the electric connectors is located deepened with respect to a protruding part of the relief and/or geometry of the service port, wherein, preferably, at least a part of said protruding part is located adjacent to, and more preferably surrounds, said electrical connectors. The electrical connectors are preferably deepened with respect to the protruding part such that they are protected.
Preferably, the service port comprises at least one mounting element, preferably two mounting elements, for mounting the service port to the bicycle frame and/or to the bicycle control unit, optionally by making use of one or more fastening elements, such as screws, co-acting with said one or more mounting elements. By using mounting elements a rigid and stable connection may be established. This may be of benefit for connecting the external port to the service port, especially in case magnets are provided since the magnetic force may otherwise pull the service port from its location.
According to an advantageous embodiment the bicycle comprises a removable cover element for covering the service port. The cover element may protect the service port in case it is not in connection with an external port of a service terminal. The cover element at least covers the electrical connectors of the service port. Preferably, the cover element is configured to cover at least the electrical connectors of the service port substantially impermeable to water and/or moisture.
The cover may be entirely removable from the service port or may be movably attached. If the cover is entirely removable, it may for example be clamped such as to cover the service port of the bicycle. If it is movably attached, a part of the cover may be attached via screws, bolts, glue or by clamping. Preferably, the cover is movable between an opened position, wherein at least the electrical connectors of the service port are accessible, at least for connecting an external port, and a closed position, wherein the cover covers at least a part of the service port, preferably at least the electrical connectors. Although the service port is preferably waterproof, the cover element may provide for an additional water barrier and therefore may increase the protection against water. The main goal of the cover element is to prevent the service port from external impact that may damage the service connector. Also, the cover may provide for protection against sabotage by for example malicious persons or persons trying to impede into the bicycles systems without being authorized to do so. To this end, the cover element may be screwed or bolted to a part of the bicycle. Preferably temper resistant screws, e.g., secured screws that may only be unscrewed with special tools, are used for fastening the cover in this respect.
It is conceivable that the service port makes integral part of the bicycle control unit.
This allows for a compact design of the service port and takes less space in the bicycle. Moreover, it allows for direct data exchange once an external service device is connected via an external port to the service port. Preferably, the service port makes integral part of the bicycle control unit acting as main bicycle control unit. In particular the service port makes integral part of the bicycle control unit which is at least partially, accommodated within a space enclosed by the bicycle frame. Preferably, said bicycle control unit is enclosed in a top tube of the bicycle. It is conceivable that the bicycle control unit is releasably mounted to the bicycle frame. This allows to bicycle control unit to be removed and/or replaced. This may be of benefit in case of a permanent malfunction that may not be solved via the service port. This may in particular be the case when there is an internal hardware failure inside the bicycle control unit that may not be remedied by a service connection. The bicycle control unit may in mounted state be an exposed part of the bicycle, preferably an exposed part of a side of the top tube, in particular the bottom side of the top tube. To this end, the bicycle control unit is accommodated with a top tube of the bicycle frame, wherein the service port is preferably located at a bottom side of said top tube.
According to an advantageous embodiment of the present invention the bicycle comprises at least two wheels connected to said bicycle frame, at least one an electric motor configured to drive at least one wheel, and at least one rechargeable battery attached to and/or accommodated within the bicycle frame, wherein said battery is connected, directly or indirect, to said motor and to at least one bicycle control unit configured to control the power supply from the at least one battery to at least one wheel, and wherein the bicycle preferably comprises a charging device electrically connected, directly or indirectly, to at least one battery and to at least one bicycle control unit, wherein the charging device comprises at least one charging port configured to co-act with an external charger to transfer electric energy from said external charger via the charging device to at least one battery.
The bicycle may comprise foot pedals, wherein said pedals are, directly or indirectly, connected to a crank set of the bicycle for propelling the bicycle. In particular, the bicycle is a pedal operable electric bicycle. Moreover, the bicycle comprises preferably at least one electromotor to drive at least one wheel of the bicycle. It is preferred that the bicycle comprises a pedal-operated manpower driven system and an electromotor driven system in parallel to each other, wherein at least one bicycle control unit is configured to control the output of the electromotor driven in response to a pedal depressing force of the manpower driven system.
The present invention is further related to a service port and to a bicycle control unit comprising a service port for use in a bicycle according to the invention. The same benefits apply to the service port according to the invention as have been stipulated with respect to the electric bicycle above. These benefits are therefore incorporated by reference with respect to the service port and to a bicycle control unit comprising a service port.
The present invention further relates to a bicycle servicing system. The bicycle servicing system, comprising at least one bicycle according to the invention, and at least one service terminal for servicing at least one bicycle control unit of said bicycle, wherein said service terminal comprises at least one keyed external port configured to be connected with at least one keyed service port of the bicycle in at least one predefined relative orientation only. Preferably, the external port comprises at least one magnetic and/or ferromagnetic element configured to co-act with at least one magnetic and/or ferromagnetic element of the service port.
It is conceivable that the external port comprises at least two magnets having an opposing exposed polarities. Preferably the magnets mutually enclose a plurality of exposed electrical connectors of the service port. According to a preferred embodiment of the servicing system, an exposed surface of the external port is provided with an, at least partially asymmetric, relief and/or geometry configured to co-act with a mating relief and/or geometry of the service port. Preferably, the asymmetric relief and/or geometry of the external port comprises at least one recessed and/or protruding circumferential edge. It is also conceivable that the relief and/or geometry of the external port comprises at least one radially and/or laterally extending recessed and/or protruding element. In particular, the relief and/or geometry of the external port comprises at least two radially and/or laterally extending recessed and/or protruding elements positioned at a distance from each other, and preferably running parallel or extending in different directions; and/or wherein at least one laterally extending recessed and/or protruding element coincides with a lateral axis of the service port; and/or wherein at least one laterally extending recessed and/or protruding element is positioned at a distance from a lateral axis of the service port, and preferably runs parallel with said lateral axis.
The lateral protruding element and/or recess of the service port and the external port respectively are configured for mutually engaging. That is, for example. The protruding lateral element of the service port may be configured to be at least partially received by a, preferably complementary, recess provided in the external port. Preferably, said lateral protrusions and/or recesses are provided on at least one side of the electrical connectors, preferably on at least two, preferably opposing, sides of the de electrical connectors. In particular it is preferred that, in case to of said laterally extending recessed and/or protruding elements are provided, they are mutually situated at a distance, seen in a longitudinal direction, of the service port and/or charging port. The laterally extending recessed and/or protruding elements are configured for defining the unique fit of the service port and the external port. Preferably an exposed surface of the external port comprises at least one receiving groove for receiving at least one seal of the service port.
Preferably, said seal is configured for sealing the connection between the service port and an external port in coupled condition. When the service port is connected to an external port it is important that the electronic connections are protected from a surrounding. Hence the seal, in particular the rubber seal may be arranged such that the connectors are sealed by said rubber when the external port is connected to the service port. Preferably, at least a part of the relief and/or geometry of the external port is enclosed by the seal of the service port in a coupled condition. This allows the seal element to establish a seal which is essentially impermeable to water and/or moisture.
The present invention will hereinafter be further elucidated based on the following non-limitative drawings, wherein: - Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a part of a bicycle according to the invention; - Figure 2 shows a part of the bicycle as shown in figure 1, showing the service port, - Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the service port according to an embodiment of the present invention; and - Figure 4a and 4b show a view of a service port and a external port respectively according to an embodiment of the present invention; and - Figure 5 shows a schematic overview of a bicycle according to the invention.
Figure 1 shows a part of a bicycle 1 according to a non-limitative embodiment of the present invention. The bicycle comprises a frame having at least a top tub 2, a bottom tube 6, a seat tube, a pair of seat stays 4, 5 and a head tube 7. The top tube 2 is connected to the bottom tube 6 and also to the seat tube 3. Preferably, the pair of seat stays 4, 5 are connected to the seat tube 3. A front light module 8 is at least partially accommodated in a part of the bicycle frame, in particular an extension of the top tube 2. Similarly, a rear light module 9 is arranged in a part of the bicycle frame, in particular in an extension of the top tube 2 at the rear of the frame. As shown by this figure, a cartridge 100 is accommodated in a bottom side of the top tube 2 of the bicycle. Said cartridge 100 may provide a number of functionalities. Said cartridge 100 may for example house a bicycle control unit.
The cartridge 100 as indicated in figure 1 is shown in figure 2 as separated from the top tube 2. Said cartridge 100 is preferably removably attached or accommodated in the top tube 2 via fastening elements 106, which in this non-limitative embodiment are screws which may co-act with a part of the top tube 2. The cartridge 100 may comprise a common housing 101 which may house all the functionalities of the cartridge 100 as such. At respective end surfaces of the cartridge 100 the cartridge may comprise one or more connectors 104, 105, for connecting the cartridge 100 to adjacent or remote other components of the bicycle 1. On a bottom side of the cartridge a service port 102 is provided. Said service port 102 may allow for easier servicing of the bicycle 1. Adjacent to the service port 102 is a plurality of perforations 103, underneath which a speaker may be housed.
Said speaker may be configured for providing an audible feedback signal to a user.
Such an audible feedback signal may for example let a user know if or when the bicycle service has started and/or finished. Start and/or finish of servicing may respectively have different signals. The service port 102 is shown in more detail in the cross section as shown in figure 3. This figure shows a cross section of a part of the cartridge 100. On an interior side of the cartridge 100 the service port 102 is attached via at least one screw 116 which attaches the frame 117 of the service port 102 to the housing 101 of the cartridge 100. Preferably, the exterior side of the cartridge 100 comprises at least one recessed portion 108, in which recessed portion 108 the service port 102 is provided. In particular the interface, being the side of the service port 102 which receives an external port of a service device, is situated in the recessed portion 108. On a side facing away from the recessed portion 108, the service port comprises a number of pins 107, which may electronically connect the service port 102 to at least one bicycle control unit. As such, the service port may co-act with an external port via at least one service port 102.
Figures 4a and 4b respectively show an interface 118of the service port 102 and an interface of an externa port 109 of a service terminal. The two interfaces 118, 109 may mutually co-act with magnets 110, 111 provided on either sides of the connecting pins 112. Preferably, at least two magnets 110, 111 having opposing polarities are used for the service port 102 and the external port to cooperate. In this embodiment the service port 102 and the external port each comprise two magnets 110, 111, but using a single magnet is also conceivable. In any case, it is preferred that the magnets of the different ports comprise magnets of opposing polarities. Preferably, an exposed surface 118 of the service port 102 is provided with an, at least partially asymmetric, relief 14 and/or geometry 114 configured to co-act with a mating relief 118 and/or geometry 118 of the external port. In this non- imitative embodiment the asymmetric relief 114 and/or geometry 114 of the service port comprises at least one protruding circumferential edge 114. The relief 14 and/or geometry 114 in this non-limitative embodiment are formed by ridges which are configured to co-act with a geometry 118 of the external port. In particular the geometry 118 of the external port is a raised bed which protrudes with respect to the interface thereof. In particular said raised surface 118 is configured to be enclosed by the ridges 114 of the service port 102. The geometry of the service port 102 as shown in figure 4a in this non-limitative embodiment also comprises two laterally extending protruding elements. There are two laterally protruding elements, one on either side of the electrical connectors 112, and mutually at a distance in the longitudinal direction of the service port. The interface of the external port 109 comprises complementary shaped recessed portions in its geometry 118. Preferably an exposed surface of the service port 102 comprises a seal 113, which in this non-limitative embodiment is formed by a seal ring 113 composed out of a resilient material. Said seal ring 113 may be accommodated in a groove of the relief 114. Preferably, a linearly arranged number of electric connectors 112 are accommodated within the seal ring 113. Preferably, said electric connectors are arranged in a line of at least four connectors 112, wherein at least two of said connectors 112 are configured as data connectors, and wherein at least one is configured as a power connector for providing a supply of power, preferably SV. It is conceivable that the service port 102 comprises a mounting element 115, for mounting the service port 102 to a cartridge 100 or a part of the bicycle 1. In the embodiment shown in the figure the mounting elements 115 are formed by lips wherein a through hole is provided in the lips for arranging therein a bolts, screws, or nuts. Although two mounting elements 115 are shown in this figure, it is conceivable that one mounting element, or four mounting elements may be used. Preferably, the bicycle, in particular the cartridge comprises a removable cover element for covering the service port 102. Preferably, said cover element is movable from a covering position, wherein said cover element at least partially covers the service port 102, and an opened position, wherein the service port 102 is at least partially accessible to at least one external port 109. It may be conceivable that the service port 102 makes integral part of the bicycle control unit.
As such, when an external connector is connected to the service port 102 it is directly coupled to the bicycle control unit for exchanging data therewith.
Figure 5 shows a schematic overview of a bicycle 200 according to the invention.
The bicycle 200 comprises a frame comprising a top tube 203, a seat tube 205, a bottom tube 206, a pair of seat stays 216, and a pair of chain stays 218. At the rear axis 219 a rear wheel 208 is rotatably arranged. The rear wheel may be powered by a used via a crank set 221. In order to drive de bicycle 200, the front side of the bicycle may comprise a handlebar 201, which may be rotatable with respect to the head tube 202 of the bicycle. The handlebar 201 may rotate the front wheel 207 which is arranged rotatably on a front axis 220. Said front wheel 207 may be held into place by means of the fork 217 which is rotatably coupled to the handlebar 201 of the bicycle 200. The handlebar 201 may be provided with a brake system 213 for allowing a user to apply a braking force. The handlebar 201 may comprise a first control unit 100, preferably arranged in a stem of the bicycle. Said first control unit may allow the accessory cables of the electronic accessories of the handlebar to be routed at least partially, preferably substantially entirely inside the frame of the bicycle 200. The first control unit 100 allows to reduce the amount of cables running through a steerer tube. One or more optical feedback units 214 may be arranged on and/or in the handlebar 201 for providing the user with optical feedback related to a bicycle status. Inside the bottom tube 206 a primary battery may be arranged for driving at least one electric motor which is arranged in the front axis 220 and/or rear axis 219. Optionally, a secondary battery 222 may be provided for extending the range of the bicycle 200. The primary battery inside the bottom tube 206 and/or the secondary battery 222 may be charged via a charging port 210 of the bicycle 200. The charging port 210 is arranged on a rear side of the bicycle in order to be easily accessible for a user. In this particular embodiment, the charging port 210 is arranged between the pair of seat stays 216 and attached to the seat tube 205 of the bicycle 200. In order for easily connecting the bicycle 200 to an external service terminal a service port 215 may be provided. In this embodiment the service port 215 is provided on a bottom side of the top tube 203 of the bicycle. The service port 215 is configured to allow connection with the external port of the service terminal in a predefined relative orientation only. Inside the top tube 203 at least one bicycle control unit may be provided. It is imaginable that at least one exposed exterior surface of at least one frame part comprises at least one antenna system. Said antenna system may be directly or indirectly mounted to said bicycle frame 203, 205, 206, 212, 216. The seat tube 205 further accommodates the seat post which may be attached to the saddle 204 of the bicycle 200. In order to increase the visibility of the user of the bicycle 200 during the evening or in the night time, the bicycle 200 may be provided with a front light module 212 and/or a rear light module 211. Said front light module 212 and rear light module 211 may allow for dynamic light patterns and/or for emitting light in at least a left and/or right direction.
The bicycle 200 as shown in this figure is merely illustrative for the components thereof. It is explicitly noted that some aspects of the bicycle 200 as shown in this figure may be chosen by way of design. In particular shapes of the light modules 212, 211 may at least partially be shaped by design. Moreover, the shape of the tubes 202, 203, 205, 206 of the bicycle may also at least partially be chosen by way of design. Hence, the aesthetica! appearance of the depicted embodiment are matters of design choice and can be varied or eliminated as desired.
The above-described inventive concepts are illustrated by several illustrative embodiments. It is conceivable that individual inventive concepts, including inventive details, may be applied without, in so doing, also applying other details of the described example. It is not necessary to elaborate on examples of all conceivable combinations of the above-described inventive concepts, as a person skilled in the art will understand numerous inventive concepts can be (re)combined in order to arrive at a specific application and/or alternative embodiment.
The ordinal numbers used in this document, like “first”, “second”, and “third” are used only for identification purposes. Hence, the use of expressions like a “second” component, does therefore not necessarily require the co-presence of a “first” component. By "complementary" components is meant that these components are configured to co-act with each other. However, to this end, these components do not necessarily have to have complementary forms. The verb “comprise” and conjugations thereof used in this patent publication are understood to mean not only “comprise”, but are also understood to mean the phrases “contain”, “substantially consist of”, “formed by” and conjugations thereof. it will be apparent that the invention is not limited to the working examples shown and described herein, but that numerous variants are possible within the scope of the attached claims that will be obvious to a person skilled in the art. The aesthetical appearance and design of the working examples or details thereof, in particular as shown in the appended figures, is not technically determined, unless indicated otherwise, and is merely incorporate to demonstrate and clarify the inventive concept(s) described herein.
Hence, the aesthetical appearance of the depicted embodiments are matters of design choice and can be varied or eliminated as desired.
The owner of this patent document does moreover not disclaim any other rights that may be lawfully associated with the information disclosed in this document, including but not limited to, copyrights and designs associated with, based upon, and/or derived from the appended figures.
Claims (43)
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2031286A NL2031286B1 (en) | 2022-03-15 | 2022-03-15 | Electric bicycle and service port for use in such an electric bicycle |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2031286A NL2031286B1 (en) | 2022-03-15 | 2022-03-15 | Electric bicycle and service port for use in such an electric bicycle |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| NL2031286B1 true NL2031286B1 (en) | 2023-09-27 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2031286A NL2031286B1 (en) | 2022-03-15 | 2022-03-15 | Electric bicycle and service port for use in such an electric bicycle |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| NL (1) | NL2031286B1 (en) |
Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2015059730A1 (en) * | 2013-10-21 | 2015-04-30 | パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社 | Vehicular operation device, and bicycle |
| WO2017131428A1 (en) * | 2016-01-26 | 2017-08-03 | 주식회사 티앤에스모터스 | Multi-functional battery device for electric bicycle |
| EP3372482A1 (en) * | 2017-03-07 | 2018-09-12 | Hong Xue | Frame for electrically-assisted vehicle and electrically-assisted vehicle |
| DE102019105724A1 (en) * | 2018-03-14 | 2019-09-19 | Shimano Inc. | Component of a human powered vehicle |
| WO2021215913A2 (en) * | 2020-04-20 | 2021-10-28 | Vanmoof B.V. | Bicycle antenna assembly |
-
2022
- 2022-03-15 NL NL2031286A patent/NL2031286B1/en active
Patent Citations (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2015059730A1 (en) * | 2013-10-21 | 2015-04-30 | パナソニックＩｐマネジメント株式会社 | Vehicular operation device, and bicycle |
| WO2017131428A1 (en) * | 2016-01-26 | 2017-08-03 | 주식회사 티앤에스모터스 | Multi-functional battery device for electric bicycle |
| EP3372482A1 (en) * | 2017-03-07 | 2018-09-12 | Hong Xue | Frame for electrically-assisted vehicle and electrically-assisted vehicle |
| DE102019105724A1 (en) * | 2018-03-14 | 2019-09-19 | Shimano Inc. | Component of a human powered vehicle |
| WO2021215913A2 (en) * | 2020-04-20 | 2021-10-28 | Vanmoof B.V. | Bicycle antenna assembly |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| PD | Change of ownership |
Owner name: MA MICRO LIMITED; GB Free format text: DETAILS ASSIGNMENT: CHANGE OF OWNER(S), ASSIGNMENT; FORMER OWNER NAME: VANMOOF B.V. Effective date: 20240207 |