NL2033111B1 - Bicycle transmission control system - Google Patents

Bicycle transmission control system Download PDF

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Publication number
NL2033111B1
NL2033111B1 NL2033111A NL2033111A NL2033111B1 NL 2033111 B1 NL2033111 B1 NL 2033111B1 NL 2033111 A NL2033111 A NL 2033111A NL 2033111 A NL2033111 A NL 2033111A NL 2033111 B1 NL2033111 B1 NL 2033111B1
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NL
Netherlands
Prior art keywords
transmission
bicycle
controller
control system
control
Prior art date
Application number
NL2033111A
Other languages
Dutch (nl)
Inventor
Marie Van Druten Roëll
Original Assignee
Classified Cycling Bv
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Classified Cycling Bv filed Critical Classified Cycling Bv
Priority to NL2033111A priority Critical patent/NL2033111B1/en
Priority to PCT/EP2023/066871 priority patent/WO2024012833A1/en
Priority to PCT/EP2023/066875 priority patent/WO2024012834A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of NL2033111B1 publication Critical patent/NL2033111B1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
    • B62K23/00—Rider-operated controls specially adapted for cycles, i.e. means for initiating control operations, e.g. levers, grips
    • B62K23/02—Rider-operated controls specially adapted for cycles, i.e. means for initiating control operations, e.g. levers, grips hand actuated
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62L—BRAKES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES
    • B62L3/00—Brake-actuating mechanisms; Arrangements thereof
    • B62L3/02—Brake-actuating mechanisms; Arrangements thereof for control by a hand lever
    • 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
    • B62M25/00—Actuators for gearing speed-change mechanisms specially adapted for cycles
    • B62M25/08—Actuators for gearing speed-change mechanisms specially adapted for cycles with electrical or fluid transmitting systems
    • 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
    • B62M9/00—Transmissions characterised by use of an endless chain, belt, or the like
    • B62M9/04—Transmissions characterised by use of an endless chain, belt, or the like of changeable ratio
    • B62M9/06—Transmissions characterised by use of an endless chain, belt, or the like of changeable ratio using a single chain, belt, or the like
    • B62M9/10—Transmissions characterised by use of an endless chain, belt, or the like of changeable ratio using a single chain, belt, or the like involving different-sized wheels, e.g. rear sprocket chain wheels selectively engaged by the chain, belt, or the like
    • B62M9/12—Transmissions characterised by use of an endless chain, belt, or the like of changeable ratio using a single chain, belt, or the like involving different-sized wheels, e.g. rear sprocket chain wheels selectively engaged by the chain, belt, or the like the chain, belt, or the like being laterally shiftable, e.g. using a rear derailleur
    • B62M9/121—Rear derailleurs
    • B62M9/122—Rear derailleurs electrically or fluid actuated; Controls thereof

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Control Of Transmission Device (AREA)

Abstract

A bicycle transmission control system for controlling a bicycle transmission, comprising a first control device comprising at least a first and a second sensing device, the first sensing device being actuatable through a first user contact surface, and the second sensing device being actuatable through a second user contact surface different from the first user contact surface, a second control device comprising at least a third and fourth sensing device, the third sensing device being actuatable through a third user contact surface, and the fourth sensing device being actuatable through a fourth user contact surface different from the third user contact surface; and a controller that is operatively connected to the sensing devices of the first and second control devices, wherein the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear shift upon actuation of one of the first, second, third or fourth sensing devices.

Description

P133641NL00
Title: Bicycle transmission control system
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a bicycle transmission control system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Bicycles, in particular racing bicycles, have a transmission system that traditionally includes a front derailleur and a rear derailleur, for shifting gears of the transmission system.
Control devices allows a cyclist to operate each of the derailleurs while cycling, for selecting an appropriate gear. The control devices are conveniently provided in reach of the cyclist, typically mounted at or near a grip portion of a handlebar of the bicycle, to facilitate the operation of the control device while cycling.
A control device conventionally comprises one or more shift levers which are manually operable by a user to effect a gearshift. Movement of one of the shift levers for example pulls a shift cable which connects to one of the derailleurs, causing a movement of the derailleur to shift a chain to a sprocket of a larger or smaller diameter.
Bicycles typically include two separate control devices; typically a right control device dedicated for operating the rear derailleur and a left control device for dedicated for controlling the front derailleur, or vice versa.
The right control device is by convention operable by a right hand of the cyclist to operate the rear derailleur, whereas the left control device is operable by a left hand of the cyclist to operate the front derailleur.
Using the two traditional control devices for up- and downshifting separate transmission systems, such as a front- and rear derailleur can be cumbersome, as shifting with the front derailleur typically results in a large change in transmission ratio, which may need to be compensated for by also shifting the rear derailleur to obtain at a desired consecutive change in transmission ratio.
It is therefore an object to provide a bicycle transmission control system that facilitates and improves the handling of the bicycle transmission. It is further an object to facilitate and improve the overall gear-shifting performance of the bicycle.
SUMMARY
According to a first aspect 1s provided a bicycle transmission control system for controlling a bicycle transmission having a plurality of consecutive discrete transmission ratios. The bicycle transmission control system comprises a first control device comprising at least a first and a second sensing device, the first sensing device being actuatable through a first user contact surface, and the second sensing device being actuatable through a second user contact surface different from the first user contact surface. The first sensing device being actuatable through a first user contact surface, and the second sensing device being actuatable through a second user contact surface different from the first user contact surface avoids user confusion when actuating the first and second sensing devices and provides great control of the first and second sensing devices. The bicycle transmission control system comprises a second control device comprising at least a third and fourth sensing device, the third sensing device being actuatable through a third user contact surface, and the fourth sensing device being actuatable through a fourth user contact surface different from the third user contact surface. The second control device comprising at least a third and fourth sensing device, the third sensing device being actuatable through a third user contact surface, and the fourth sensing device being actuatable through a fourth user contact surface different from the third user contact surface avoids user confusion when actuating the third and fourth sensing devices and provides great control of the first and second sensing devices. The bicycle transmission control system comprises a controller that is operatively connected to the sensing devices of the first and second control devices, wherein the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear shift upon actuation of one of the first, second, third or fourth sensing devices. The controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to: - activate a gear upshift to the first next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the first sensing device; - activate a gear upshift to a transmission ratio higher than the first next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the second sensing device; - activate a gear downshift to the first next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the third sensing device; and - activate a gearshift to a lower transmission ratio lower than first next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the fourth sensing device.
Thus, upshifting or downshifting a small transmission ratio step, viz. to the next higher or lower transmission ratio is performed using the dedicated first or third user contact surface. Upshifting or downshifting a large transmission ratio step, viz. to a transmission ratio higher/lower than the first next higher/lower transmission ratio is performed using the dedicated second or fourth user contact surface. Hence, the user has full control over the transmission system at all times. Herein the term bicycle is used to refer to a(n at least partially) human powered vehicle, particularly a pedal powered vehicle, such as bicycles, tricycles, quadricycles, and the like, also including such vehicles with electric power assistance.
Optionally, the first control device is configured to be operable with a user’s right hand and the second control device is configured to be operable with the user’s left hand, or vice versa the first control device is configured to be operable with a user’s left hand and the second control device is configured to be operable with the user’s right hand. Hence, the user has full bimanual control over the transmission system at all times
Optionally, the first control device is configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar right grip portion and the second control device 1s configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar left grip portion, or vice versa the first control device is configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar left grip portion and the second control device is configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar right grip portion.
Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to: - activate a gear upshift to the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the second sensing device; - activate a gear downshift to the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the fourth sensing device.
The controller may be configured to allow user setting of which transmission ration step the second and fourth sensing device are associated with, e.g. using an app on a mobile device, such as a smartphone.
Optionally, the first user contact surface includes a first user actuatable button, and the second user contact surface includes a separate second user actuatable button. Optionally, the third user contact surface includes a third user actuatable button, and the fourth user contact surface includes a separate fourth user actuatable button. The use of separate buttons provides simple and non-confusing user control.
Optionally, the controller is fixable to or integratable in a bicycle handlebar. The controller can e.g. be configured to be mounted in an end of the bicycle handlebar. Hence, convenient placement of the controller can be provided.
Optionally, the controller includes or is connected to a transmitter for wirelessly transmitting a gear shift command to the bicycle transmission system. The transmitter can e.g. also be mounted in the end of the bicycle handlebar. The transmitter may include an antenna for transmitting a wireless signal. It will be appreciated that the transmitter may be considered to be part of the controller of the control device. The controller may communicate with an actuator or multiple actuators for example, by 5 means of the transmitter. The controller may for instance transmit, with the transmitter, a control signal that is associated with an upshift command to an actuator, which actuator, in response to the control signal, brings about an upward gearshift. The controller may transmit multiple control signals to multiple actuators simultaneously and/or sequentially, e.g. in response to a single signal received from the sensing device. The control signal is preferably transmitted by the transmitter wirelessly, but it will be appreciated that the control signal can also be transmitted by wire.
Optionally, the controller includes or is connected to an electric power source, such as a battery. The power source can e.g. also be mounted in the end of the bicycle handlebar. The controller and/or the transmitter and/or the power source can form a single module, e.g. configured to be placed in the end of the bicycle handlebar.
Optionally, the first and a second control devices are wiredly connected to the controller, e.g. when the controller (and/or transmitter and/or power source) is mounted in the end of the bicycle handlebar.
According to an aspect, the bicycle transmission control system further includes the bicycle transmission having the plurality of consecutive discrete transmission ratios.
The transmission system is a transmission arranged between a system input and a system output which transmission is operable according to multiple system transmission ratios. The transmission includes a first transmission which is operable according to a first transmission ratio and at least a second transmission ratio, and a first actuator for switching from the first to the at least second transmission ratio, or vice versa. The first or second transmission ratio can be a 1:1 coupling. The transmission also includes a second transmission operable according to a first transmission ratio and at least a second transmission ratio and a second actuator for switching from the first to the at least second transmission ratio, or vice versa. The first and second transmissions are couplable to each other, for example using an axle, shaft, chain, clutch or other suitable device. The first and second transmissions can be coupled in parallel and/or in series. The controller is operatively connected to the sensing devices of the control devices. The controller is configured to control the first actuator and/or the second actuator upon receiving a signal from the one or more sensing devices.
The bicycle transmission can include a first transmission connected in series to a second transmission. The first transmission can include a plurality of sprockets associated with an endless drive member, such as a chain, and an electrically actuatable derailleur. The second transmission can include an electrically actuatable internal hub transmission or internal crank transmission having at least two selectable transmission ratios.
Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in: - only the first transmission, - only the second transmission, or - both the first and the second transmission, upon actuation of the first or second sensing device. The controller can be configured to determine, on the basis of the current transmission ratio, and the first next higher or first next lower transmission ratio to be switched to which onefs) of the first transmission and the second transmission should be activated to change its gear ratio. It will be appreciated that an upshift to the first next higher transmission ratio of the bicycle transmission may involve a downshift of the gear ratio of one of the first or second transmission in combination with an upshift of the gear ratio of the other one of the first and second transmission. Similarly, a downshift to the first next lower transmission ratio of the bicycle transmission may involve an upshift of the gear ratio of one of the first or second transmission in combination with a downshift of the gear ratio of the other one of the first and second transmission. The controller thus controls one or more shift actuators of the transmission system in response to the upshift or downshift command provided by the cyclist. Depending on the transmission ratio used at that point in time, the next higher transmission ratio can be obtained by actuating one or more shift actuators. The controller may be configured to select and actuate the appropriate shift actuator. For example, a gearshift to the next higher transmission ratio may involve a gearshift with e.g. an internal hub transmission as well as with e.g. a rear derailleur, whereas the user needs to make only one gearshift command, as the controller activates both the shift actuators accordingly. Shifting is thus simplified for the user.
The one or more shift actuators can be arranged for being operated electronically by the controller. The transmission system can be arranged such that the transmission ratios through which can be shifted can be chosen or adapted by the user.
Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in: - only the first transmission, - only the second transmission, or - both the first and the second transmission, upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device.
Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in only the first transmission upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device. Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in only the second transmission upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device. The controller may e.g. be configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in only the hub transmission upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device.
Optionally, the first transmission and/or the second transmission comprises a continuously variable transmission that is used to switch, or shift, from the first to the second transmission ratio or vice-versa. While switching from the first to the second transmission ratio or vice-versa, the continuously variable transmission can traverse all (continuous) intermediate transmission ratios. The continuously variable transmission can be used to switch from the first to a second and to a third transmission ratio or vice-versa. The continuous variable transmission may be arranged to operate according to a discrete transmission. For example, the continuous transmission may be preprogrammed to operate in a discrete manner according to the first transmission ratio and the second transmission ratio, and optionally further transmission ratios. The transmission ratios of the continuous variable transmission may be adapted and/or customized by a user, e.g. using a communication device such as smart phone table or (bicycle)computer.
The first and the second, and possibly the third, transmission ratio can be chosen by the controller and possibly preprogrammed by the user.
The user can e.g. select desired transmission ratios and set these in the controller, e.g. by creating a control program. Thereto, the controller can be operatively connected, or include, a user interface. The user interface may be part of a bicycle computer. The bicycle computer may be a releasably coupled to the handlebar. The user interface may be powered by the same power source, e.g. battery module, as the control device and other electric components. The user interface may also show the battery status of the battery module. It is also possible that the transmission ratios are selected on a communications device, such as a smartphone or tablet, and communicated to the controller. A computer program product, such as an app, can thereto be executed on the communications device.
The transmission ratio(s) can be chosen by the controller and can be adapted depending on the sprocket that is engaged with the chain. It is also possible that the user preprograms transmission ratios depending on the sprocket that can be engaged with the chain.
The system transmission ratio is defined by the first and second transmissions, in particular by the respective gear ratios of the first and second transmissions. The first gear ratio of the first transmission need not be identical to the first gear ratio of the second transmission.
The transmission system, particularly the first transmission and/or the second transmission thereof, may include a set of sprockets, having varying numbers of teeth, such as a cassette. The number of teeth of the sprockets may increase from one sprocket to the next in a geometric order.
The transmission system can include a chain driven by a chain ring and transferring torque from a system input, such as a crank, to one of the sprockets. The transmission system, particularly the first transmission and/or second transmission thereof, may include a planetary gear set.
The first actuator and/or the second actuator can be an electric actuator, derailleur system or a clutch or brake device.
According to an aspect is provided an assembly comprising a bicycle handlebar including left and right grip portion for allowing a user to grip the handle bar with its respective a left and right hand, and a bicycle transmission control system as described hereinabove, wherein the first control device is mounted to the handlebar at or near the right grip portion and the second control device is mounted to the handlebar at or near the left grip portion, or vice versa wherein the first control device is mounted to the handlebar at or near the left grip portion and the second control device is mounted to the handlebar at or near the right grip portion.
Optionally, the controller is fixable to or integratable in the bicycle handlebar. The controller and/or the transmitter and/or the power source can form a single module, e.g. configured to be placed in the end of the bicycle handlebar.
According to an aspect 1s provided a bicycle comprising a bicycle transmission control system as described hereinabove.
It will be appreciated that actuation of the sensing device may involve opening and/or closing of an electric circuit. For example, the sensing device can be actuated upon arrival of the user contact surface at an actuation position. It is also possible that the sensing device 1s actuated upon departure of the user contact surface from the actuation position. It is furthermore possible that the sensing device is actuated by the user contact surface upon arrival at and/or upon departure from a neutral position. The actuation of the sensing device may trigger the transmission of a signal, e.g. an electric or electronic signal. This signal may be received by a controller, actuator or other device.
Optionally, the user contact surface is movably, such as slidably or pivotably connected to a support body.
Optionally, the user contact surface is biased in the neutral position. The neutral position may correspond to a position in which the user contact surface does not actuate the sensing device. An elastic return member may for example be provided for returning the user contact surface from the actuation position to the neutral position.
Optionally, the sensing device is fixed to a brake lever assembly.
The sensing device may for example be integrated in the brake lever support body or the brake lever.
The controller is configured for generating a shift signal for initiating a gearshift. The shift signal is preferably an electronic signal, such as a wired or wireless electronic signal. The shift signal may be generated by means of an electronic switch of the sensing device, e.g. by opening or closing an electric circuit, and/or by providing a pulsed signal.
The shift signal is can be transmitted to an actuator of the bicycle transmission, e.g. using a wireless and/or wired connection.
It will be appreciated that any one or more of the above aspects, features and options can be combined. It will be appreciated that any one of the options described in view of one of the aspects can be applied equally to any of the other aspects. It will also be clear that all aspects, features and options described in view of the bicycle transmission control system apply equally to the assembly and bicycle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The invention will further be elucidated on the basis of exemplary embodiments which are represented in a drawing. The exemplary embodiments are given by way of non-limitative illustration. It is noted that the figures are only schematic representations of embodiments of the invention that are given by way of non-limiting example.
In the drawing:
Fig. 1 shows an example of a bicycle transmission control system;
Fig. 2 shows an example of a bicycle transmission control system;
Fig. 3 shows an example of a bicycle transmission control system;
Fig. 4 shows an example of a bicycle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 shows a schematic example of a bicycle transmission control system 40 for controlling a bicycle transmission 50 having a plurality of consecutive discrete transmission ratios. The bicycle transmission control system 40 comprises a first control device 60A comprising at least a first sensing device 61A and a second sensing device 62A, the first sensing device 61A being actuatable through a first user contact surface 63A, and the second sensing device 62A being actuatable through a second user contact surface 64A different from the first user contact surface 63A. The bicycle transmission control system 40 comprises a second control device 60B comprising at least a third sensing device 61B and fourth sensing device 62B, the third sensing device 61B being actuatable through a third user contact surface 63B, and the fourth sensing device 62B being actuatable through a fourth user contact surface 64B different from the third user contact surface 63B. In this example, the sensing devices 61A, 61B, 62A, 62B are electric contact switches, and the user contact surfaces 63A, 63B, 64A, 64B are push buttons, such that depressing of the push buttons actuates the corresponding electric contact switch. However, the user contact surfaces can also be differently embodied, such as touch pads, rocker switches, sliders, levers or the like. Also, the sensing devices can be embodied differently, such as magnetic sensors, capacitive sensors, etc..
The bicycle transmission control system 40 comprises a controller 37 that is operatively connected to the sensing devices 61A, 61B, 61A, 62B of the first and second control devices 60A, 60B. The controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gear shift upon actuation of one of the first, second, third or fourth sensing devices.
In this example, the controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gear upshift to the first next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the first sensing device. In this example, the controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gear upshift to a transmission ratio higher than the first next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the second sensing device.
In this example, the controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gear downshift to the first next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the third sensing device. In this example, the controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gearshift to a lower transmission ratio lower than first next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the fourth sensing device. For example, the controller can be configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear upshift to the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the second sensing device. The controller can be configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear downshift to the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the fourth sensing device. The controller may be configured to allow user setting of which transmission ration step the second and fourth sensing device are associated with, e.g. using an app on a mobile device, such as a smartphone.
Here, the controller 37 includes a transmitter 38 for wirelessly transmitting a gear shift command to the bicycle transmission system 50.
The transmitter may include an antenna for transmitting a wireless signal.
It will be appreciated that the transmitter may be considered to be part of the controller of the control device. The controller may communicate with an actuator or multiple actuators for example, by means of the transmitter.
The controller may for instance transmit, with the transmitter, a control signal that is associated with an upshift command to an actuator, which actuator, in response to the control signal, brings about an upward gearshift. The controller may transmit multiple control signals to multiple actuators simultaneously and/or sequentially, e.g. in response to a single signal received from the sensing device. The control signal is preferably transmitted by the transmitter wirelessly, but it will be appreciated that the control signal can also be transmitted by wire.
In this example, the controller 37 includes an electric power source 39, here a battery.
In this example, the bicycle transmission 50 includes a first transmission 51 connected in series to a second transmission 52. The first transmission 51 here includes a plurality of sprockets associated with an endless drive member, such as a chain, and an electrically actuatable derailleur. The second transmission 52 here includes an electrically actuatable internal hub transmission having at least two selectable transmission ratios. The bicycle transmission 50, including the first transmission 51 and the second transmission 52 here provides a plurality of consecutive discrete transmission ratios. An input 55 of the transmission 50 can be can be connected to a bicycle crank. An output 56 of the transmission 50 can be connected to a driven wheel hub.
In this example, the first control device 60A is configured to be operable with a user’s left hand and the second control device 60B is configured to be operable with the user’s right hand. It will be clear that it is also possible that the first control device 60A is configured to be operable with a user’s right hand and the second control device 60B is configured to be operable with the user’s left hand. Hence, the user has full bimanual control over the transmission system at all times
As shown in the examples of figures 2 and 3, the first control device 60A can be configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar left grip portion and the second control device 60B can be configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar right grip portion. Alternatively, the first control device can be configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar right grip portion and the second control device can be configured to be mounted at a bicycle handlebar left grip portion.
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an assembly 30, comprising a handlebar 33 of a bicycle, in this case drop handlebar of a road or gravel race bicycle. A first and a second control device 60A, 60B are mounted to the handlebar 33, at a respective left and right grip portion of the handlebar 33, when used by the cyclist. The first and second control device 60A, 60B are substantially mirrored with respect to one another here. Here, the sensing devices 61A, 61B, 62A, 62B are mounted to the support bodies 2 of the brake levers 3. The user contact surfaces 63A, 63B, 64A, 64B are here in the form of push buttons.
The controller 37 is provided, in this example, in an end section of the handlebar 33. In this example, the controller 37 and the transmitter 38 and the power source 39 form a single module, here configured to be placed in the end of the bicycle handlebar.
Here, each sensing device, i.e. the sensing device of the first control device 60A, and the sensing device of the second control device 60B, is connected to the controller by means of a respective wire 34, 35. Said connection may alternatively be wirelessly. Here, the wires 34, 35 at least partly run through a cavity of the handlebar 33. The controller 37 comprises the transmitter 39, which transmitter 39 is arranged to transmit a wireless signal. The transmitter 39 is particularly arranged to transmit a wireless signal to an actuator of a transmission system 50 to activate a transmission ratio shift.
Figure 3 shows a further example of an assembly 30 comprising a handlebar 33 of a bicycle, in this case a flat-bar handlebar of a mountain bike or commuter bike. A first and a second control device 60A, 60B are mounted to the handlebar 33, at a respective left and right grip portion of the handlebar 33. The user contact surfaces 63A, 63B, 64A, 64B are here in the form of push buttons.
Optionally, the controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gear change m: - only the first transmission 51, - only the second transmission 51, or - both the first and the second transmission 51, 52, upon actuation of the first or second sensing device 61A, 61B. The controller 37 can be configured to determine, on the basis of the current transmission ratio, and the first next higher or first next lower transmission ratio to be switched to which one(s) of the first transmission 51 and the second transmission 52 should be activated to change its gear ratio. It will be appreciated that an upshift to the first next higher transmission ratio of the bicycle transmission 50 may involve a downshift of the gear ratio of one of the first or second transmission in combination with an upshift of the gear ratio of the other one of the first and second transmission. Similarly, a downshift to the first next lower transmission ratio of the bicycle transmission may involve an upshift of the gear ratio of one of the first or second transmission in combination with a downshift of the gear ratio of the other one of the first and second transmission. The controller 37 thus controls one or more shift actuators of the transmission system 50 in response to the upshift or downshift command provided by the cyclist.
Depending on the transmission ratio used at that point in time, the next higher transmission ratio can be obtained by actuating one or more shift actuators. The controller may be configured to select and actuate the appropriate shift actuator. For example, a gearshift to the next higher transmission ratio may involve a gearshift with e.g. an internal hub 51, 1022 transmission as well as with e.g. a rear derailleur 1024, whereas the user needs to make only one gearshift command, as the controller activates both the shift actuators accordingly. Shifting is thus simplified for the user.
The one or more shift actuators can be arranged for being operated electronically by the controller. The transmission system can be arranged such that the transmission ratios through which can be shifted can be chosen or adapted by the user.
Optionally, the controller 37 is configured to control the bicycle transmission 50 to activate a gear change m: - only the first transmission 51, - only the second transmission 52, or - both the first and the second transmission 51, 52, upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device 61B, 62B.
Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in only the first transmission upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device. Optionally, the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in only the second transmission upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device. The controller may e.g. be configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear change in only the hub transmission upon actuation of the third or fourth sensing device.
Figure 4 shows a bicycle 1000. The bicycle 1000 comprises a frame 1002 with a front fork 1005 and a rear fork 1007, as well as a front wheel and a rear wheel 1011, 1013 located in the front and rear fork respectively.
The bicycle 1000 further comprises a crank 1017, and a front chain wheel 1019. The bicycle 1000 also comprises a plurality of rear sprockets 1021 and an internal transmission rear wheel hub 1022 of the rear wheel 1013, wherein a chain or belt 1023 threads over the front chain wheel 1019, one of the rear sprockets 1021 and the derailleur 1024. In this example, the bicycle 1000 comprises a first transmission 51, which is formed by the chain 1023 and the rear sprockets 1021, and a second transmission 52 which is formed by the internal transmission rear wheel hub 1022. The first transmission 51 is operable according to multiple transmission ratios and includes a first gearshift actuator, here electronic derailleur actuator, for actuating a gear shift with the first transmission 51. The second transmission 52 is also operable according to multiple transmission ratios and includes a second gearshift actuator, here electronic internal gear hub actuator, for actuating a gear shift with the second transmission 52.
Herein, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications, variations, alternatives and changes may be made therein, without departing from the essence of the invention. For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, alternative embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments are also envisaged and understood to fall within the framework of the invention as outlined by the claims. The specifications, figures and examples are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than in a restrictive sense. The invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Further, many of the elements that are described are functional entities that may be implemented as discrete or distributed components or in conjunction with other components, in any suitable combination and location.
In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim.
Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed as limited to ‘only one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage.

Claims (20)

ConclusiesConclusions 1. Een rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem voor het regelen van een rijwieltransmissie omvattende een veelvoud opeenvolgende discrete transmissieratios, omvattende: een eerste regelinrichting omvattende ten minste een eerste en een tweede sensorinrichting, waarbij de eerste sensorinrichting via een eerste gebruikerscontactoppervlak activeerbaar is, en de tweede sensorinrichting via een tweede gebruikerscontactoppervlak, die verschilt van het eerste gebruikerscontactoppervlak, activeerbaar is; een tweede regelinrichting omvattende ten minste een derde en vierde sensorinrichting, waarbij de derde sensorinrichting via een derde gebruikerscontactoppervlak activeerbaar is, en de vierde sensorinrichting via een vierde gebruikerscontactoppervlak, die verschilt van de derde gebruikerscontactoppervlak, activeerbaar 1s; en een regelaar die operationeel met de sensorinrichtingen van de eerste en tweede regelinrichtingen verbonden is, waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om de rijwieltransmissie te regelen om een versnellingsschakeling te activeren bij actuatie van een van de eerste, tweede, derde of vierde sensorinrichtingen; waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om de rijwieltransmissie te regelen om: - een versnelling-opschakeling naar de eerstvolgende hogere transmissieratio te activeren bij actuatie van de eerste sensorinrichting; - een versnelling-opschakeling naar een transmissieratio die hoger dan de eerstvolgende hogere transmissieratio 1s te activeren bij actuatie van de tweede sensorinrichting;1. A bicycle transmission control system for controlling a bicycle transmission comprising a plurality of consecutive discrete transmission ratios, comprising: a first control device comprising at least a first and a second sensor device, wherein the first sensor device can be activated via a first user contact surface, and the second sensor device via a second user contact surface, which is different from the first user contact surface, can be activated; a second control device comprising at least a third and fourth sensor device, wherein the third sensor device can be activated via a third user contact surface, and the fourth sensor device can be activated via a fourth user contact surface, which is different from the third user contact surface, 1s; and a controller operatively connected to the sensor devices of the first and second control devices, the controller configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear shift upon actuation of any of the first, second, third or fourth sensor devices; wherein the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to: - activate a gear upshift to the next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the first sensor device; - to activate a gear upshift to a transmission ratio higher than the next higher transmission ratio 1s upon actuation of the second sensor device; - een versnelling-afschakeling naar de eerstvolgende lagere transmissieratio te activeren bij actuatie van de derde sensorinrichting; en - een versnellingsschakeling naar een lagere transmissieratio die lager dan de eerstvolgende lagere transmissieratio is te activeren bij actuatie van de vierde sensorinrichting.- activate a gear shift to the next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the third sensor device; and - an acceleration switch to a lower transmission ratio that can be activated lower than the next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the fourth sensor device. 2. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 1, waarbij de eerste regelinrichting geconfigureerd is om met een rechterhand van een gebruiker bedienbaar te zijn, en de tweede besturingsinrichting geconfigureerd is met een linkerhand van de gebruiker bedienbaar te zijn, of vice versa.The bicycle transmission control system of claim 1, wherein the first control device is configured to be operable with a user's right hand, and the second control device is configured to be operable with a user's left hand, or vice versa. 3. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 2, waarbij de eerste regelinrichting geconfigureerd is om op een rechter greepgedeelte van een rijwielstuur gemonteerd te worden, en de tweede regelinrichting geconfigureerd is om op een linker greepgedeelte van een rijwielstuur gemonteerd te worden, of vice versa.The bicycle transmission control system of claim 2, wherein the first control device is configured to be mounted on a right grip portion of a bicycle handlebar, and the second control device is configured to be mounted on a left grip portion of a bicycle handlebar, or vice versa. 4. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 1, 2 of 3, waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om de rijwieltransmissie te regelen om: - een versnelling-opschakeling naar de tweede, derde, vierde, vijfde of zesde volgende hogere transmissieratio te activeren bij actuatie van de tweede sensorinrichting; - een versnelling-afschakeling naar de tweede, derde, vierde, vijfde of zesde volgende lagere transmissieratio te activeren bij actuatie van de vierde sensorinrichting.The bicycle transmission control system according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to: - activate a gear upshift to the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth next higher transmission ratio upon actuation of the second sensor device; - activate a gear downshift to the second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth next lower transmission ratio upon actuation of the fourth sensor device. 5. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een der conclusies 1-4, waarbij het eerste gebruikerscontactoppervlak een eerste door de gebruiker actueerbare knop omvat, en het tweede gebruikerscontactoppervlak een separate tweede door de gebruiker activeerbare knop omvat.5. The bicycle transmission control system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the first user contact surface comprises a first user-activatable button, and the second user contact surface comprises a separate second user-activatable button. 6. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1-5, waarbij het derde gebruikerscontactoppervlak een derde door de gebruiker activeerbare knop omvat, en het vierde gebruikerscontactoppervlak een separate vierde door de gebruiker activeerbare knop omvat.The bicycle transmission control system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the third user contact surface includes a third user-activatable button, and the fourth user contact surface includes a separate fourth user-activatable button. 7. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1- 6, waarbij de regelaar fixeerbaar is aan of integreerbaar is met een rijwielstuur.7. The bicycle transmission control system according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the controller can be fixed to or integrated with a bicycle handlebar. 8. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1-7, waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om in een uiteinde van het rijwielstuur gemonteerd te worden.The bicycle transmission control system of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the controller is configured to be mounted in an end of the bicycle handlebar. 9. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1-8, waarbij de regelaar een zender omvat of daarmee verbonden is voor het draadloos verzenden van een schakelcommando naar het rijwieltransmissiesysteem.The bicycle transmission control system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the controller comprises or is connected thereto a transmitter for wirelessly transmitting a shifting command to the bicycle transmission system. 10. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1-9, waarbij de regelaar een elektrische vermogensbron, zoals een batterij, omvat of daarmee verbonden is.The bicycle transmission control system of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the controller includes or is connected to an electrical power source, such as a battery. 11. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1- 10, waarbij de eerste en tweede besturingsinrichtingen bedraad met de regelaar verbonden zijn.The bicycle transmission control system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first and second control devices are hardwired to the controller. 12. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1- 11, verder omvattende de rijwieltransmissie omvattende meerdere opeenvolgende discrete transmissieratios.The bicycle transmission control system of any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising the bicycle transmission comprising multiple consecutive discrete transmission ratios. 13. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 11, waarbij de rijwieltransmissie een eerste transmissie omvat die in serie met een tweede transmissie verbonden is.The bicycle transmission control system of claim 11, wherein the bicycle transmission includes a first transmission connected in series with a second transmission. 14. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 13, waarbij: - de eerste transmissie een veelvoud kettingwielen omvat die met een eindloos aandrijfelement, zoals een ketting, geassocieerd zijn en een elektrisch actueerbare derailleur; en - de tweede transmissie een elektrisch actueerbare interne naaftransmissie of interne cranktransmissie met ten minste twee selecteerbare transmissieratios omvat.The bicycle transmission control system according to claim 13, wherein: - the first transmission comprises a plurality of sprockets associated with an endless drive element, such as a chain, and an electrically actuable derailleur; and - the second transmission comprises an electrically actuable internal hub transmission or internal crank transmission with at least two selectable transmission ratios. 15. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 14, waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om de transmissie van de rijwiel te regelen om een versnellingsschakeling te activeren in: - alleen de eerste transmissie, - alleen de tweede transmissie, of - zowel de eerste als de tweede transmissie, bij actuatie van de eerste of tweede sensorinrichting.The bicycle transmission control system of claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to control the transmission of the bicycle to activate a gear shift in: - the first transmission only, - the second transmission only, or - both the first and second transmissions, upon actuation of the first or second sensor device. 16. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 14 or 15, waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om de rijwieltransmissie te regelen om een versnellingsschakeling te activeren in: - alleen de eerste transmissie, - alleen de tweede transmissie, of - zowel de eerste als de tweede transmissie, bij actuatie van de derde of vierde sensorinrichting.The bicycle transmission control system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear shift in: - only the first transmission, - only the second transmission, or - both the first and second transmissions, when actuation of the third or fourth sensor device. 17. Het rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens conclusie 14 of 15, waarbij de regelaar geconfigureerd is om de rijwieltransmissie te regelen om een versnellingsschakeling te activeren in: - alleen de eerste transmissie, of - alleen de tweede transmissie, bij activering van de derde of vierde sensorinrichting.The bicycle transmission control system according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the controller is configured to control the bicycle transmission to activate a gear shift in: - only the first transmission, or - only the second transmission, upon activation of the third or fourth sensor device. 18. Samenstel omvattende een rijwielstuur met een linker en rechter greepgedeelte om een gebruiker het stuur vast te laten pakken met zijn respectievelijke linker- en rechterhand, en een rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een der conclusies 1-17, waarbij de eerste regelinrichting bij of nabij het rechter greepgedeelte aan het stuur gemonteerd is, en de tweede regelinrichting bij of nabij het linker greepgedeelte aan het stuur gemonteerd is, of vice versa.An assembly comprising a bicycle handlebar with a left and right grip portion for allowing a user to grip the handlebar with his respective left and right hand, and a bicycle transmission control system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the first control device is at or near the right grip portion mounted on the handlebars, and the second control device is mounted at or near the left grip area on the handlebars, or vice versa. 19. Samenstel volgens conclusie 18, waarbij de regelaar fixeerbaar is aan of integreerbaar is in het rijwielstuur.19. Assembly according to claim 18, wherein the controller can be fixed to or integrated into the bicycle handlebar. 20. Rijwiel omvattende een rijwieltransmissieregelsysteem volgens een van de conclusies 1-17.20. Bicycle comprising a bicycle transmission control system according to any one of claims 1-17.
NL2033111A 2022-07-12 2022-09-22 Bicycle transmission control system NL2033111B1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2033111A NL2033111B1 (en) 2022-09-22 2022-09-22 Bicycle transmission control system
PCT/EP2023/066871 WO2024012833A1 (en) 2022-07-12 2023-06-21 Wireless control device for a bicycle, bicycle, set, combination and method
PCT/EP2023/066875 WO2024012834A1 (en) 2022-07-12 2023-06-21 Bicycle transmission control system

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NL2033111A NL2033111B1 (en) 2022-09-22 2022-09-22 Bicycle transmission control system

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Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160272282A1 (en) * 2015-03-18 2016-09-22 Tektro Technology Corporation Dual control lever and bicycle stem having the same
US20190276115A1 (en) * 2018-03-12 2019-09-12 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Cycle shifter system with integrated sensor

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160272282A1 (en) * 2015-03-18 2016-09-22 Tektro Technology Corporation Dual control lever and bicycle stem having the same
US20190276115A1 (en) * 2018-03-12 2019-09-12 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Cycle shifter system with integrated sensor

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