TW202308894A - Power supply control device for component of human-powered vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A power supply control device is provided for a component of a human-powered vehicle other than a lamp. The power supply control device comprises an accommodating structure, an electric component, a regulating circuit and a controller. The accommodating structure is configured to accommodate and to be electrically connected to at least one power supply. The electric component is electrically connected to the accommodating structure to be electrically supported by the power supply via the accommodating structure. The regulating circuit is electrically connected to the power supply and the electric component. The regulating circuit is configured to regulate current supplied from the power supply to the electric component at a constant level. The controller electrically connected the electric component.

Description

Power supply control device for parts of human-powered vehicles

This case generally relates to a power supply control device for parts of a human-powered vehicle other than lights.

Human-powered vehicles such as bicycles, motorcycles, All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), personal watercraft, and snowmobiles are typically provided with one or more operating devices for controlling one or more components. These operating devices include a user operating member that operates one or more other components. Therefore, the operating device is usually provided at a place convenient for the user to operate the operating device (such as on the handlebar of a bicycle). Some operating devices are electric operating devices, which are provided with one or more electric switches activated by moving the operating member, which in turn transmits control signals to operate electric parts. The one or more switches may transmit control signals either wirelessly or via wires. An example of a control device for a human powered vehicle, such as a bicycle, is disclosed in US Patent No. 10,604,206 B2 assigned to Shimano Inc. One or more power supplies are provided when the human-powered vehicle uses the electric operating device to operate the electric parts.

In general, the disclosure of the present invention is directed to various features of a power supply control device for a human-driven vehicle. The term "human-powered vehicle" as used herein refers to a vehicle that can be driven by at least human power, but does not include a vehicle that uses only a power other than human power. In particular, a vehicle train using only an internal combustion engine as a power transmission force is not included in this human-powered vehicle. The human-powered vehicle is generally conceived as a compact and lightweight vehicle, which sometimes does not require a license for driving on public roads. On the human-powered vehicle, the number of wheels is not limited. The human-powered vehicle includes, for example, a wheelbarrow, and a vehicle having three or more wheels. The human-driven vehicle includes, for example, various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, and a recumbent bike, as well as an electric assist bicycle (E-bike).

In view of the state of the known technology and according to the first aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, a power supply control device for non-light parts of a human-powered vehicle is provided. The power supply control device includes a containing structure, an electric component, a regulating circuit, and a controller. The containment structure is configured to house and electrically connect to at least one power supply. The electric component is electrically connected via the containment structure to the containment structure to be electrically supported by the power supply. The regulating circuit is electrically connected to the power supply and the electric component. The regulating circuit is configured to regulate the current supplied from the power supply to the electric component at a constant level. The controller is electrically connected to the electric component.

With the power supply control device according to the first aspect, it is possible to reduce variations in currents supplied from the power source to the electric parts by controlling the current to a constant level.

According to a second aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to the first aspect is configured such that the regulating circuit includes a constant current circuit.

With the power supply control device according to the second aspect, the reduction of current variation from the power supply to the electric part can be properly performed using a constant current circuit.

According to the third aspect of the disclosed content of the present invention, the power supply control device is provided for non-lamp parts of the human-powered vehicle. The power supply control device includes an accommodating structure, an electric component, a step-down circuit, and a controller. The containment structure is configured to house and electrically connect to at least one power supply. The electric component is electrically connected via the containment structure to the containment structure to be electrically supported by the power supply. The step-down circuit is electrically connected to the power supply and the electric component. The regulating circuit is configured to reduce the voltage supplied from the power source to the powered part. The controller is electrically connected to the electric component.

With the power supply control device according to the third aspect, it is possible to use a power supply having a voltage larger than the voltage rating of the electric part by reducing the voltage supplied from the power source to the electric part by using a step-down circuit , and thus, reduce transient voltage drops when larger electrical loads are applied.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to any one of the first aspect to the third aspect is configured such that the electric component includes at least one light emitting device.

With the power supply control device according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to notify the user of information related to the power supply control device.

According to a fifth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to the fourth aspect is configured such that the at least one light emitting device includes a first light emitting device and a second light emitting device.

With the power supply control device according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to inform the user of more information by using at least two light emitting devices instead of one light emitting device.

According to the sixth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to the fifth aspect is configured so that the first light emitting device is configured to generate the first color light, and the second light emitting device is configured to A second color light of a different color than the first color light is generated.

With the power supply control device according to the sixth aspect, it is possible to notify the user of even more information by using at least two light emitting devices of different colors instead of a single color.

According to a seventh aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect is configured so that the electric component includes a wireless communicator.

With the power supply control device according to the seventh aspect, it is possible to output signals wirelessly and provide a simple structure without wiring the power supply control device to another part.

According to an eighth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect is configured such that the power supply includes at least one primary battery.

With the power supply control device according to the eighth aspect, it is possible to manufacture the power supply control device at relatively low cost by using at least one primary battery as compared with using a secondary battery.

According to a ninth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the power supply control device according to the eighth aspect is configured such that the at least one primary battery includes two button batteries.

With the power supply control device according to the ninth aspect, it is possible to standardize button batteries to obtain the required voltage of the power supply.

According to the tenth aspect of the disclosed content of the present invention, the power supply control device according to any one of the first aspect to the ninth aspect further includes a low dropout regulator, which is electrically connected to the power supply and the The electric component converts a first input voltage supplied by the power supply into a predetermined supply voltage supplied to the electric component.

With the power supply control device according to the tenth aspect, it is possible to further reduce current variations from the power supply to the electric parts by using a low dropout regulator.

According to the eleventh aspect of the disclosed content of the present invention, the power supply control device according to any one of the third aspect to the tenth aspect further includes a regulating circuit, which is electrically connected to the power supply, the step-down voltage circuit, and the electric parts. The regulating circuit is configured to regulate current supplied from the power supply to the electric component at a constant level.

With the power supply control device according to the eleventh aspect, it is possible to reduce variations in currents supplied from the power source to the electric parts by controlling the current to a constant level.

According to a twelfth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, an operating device includes the power supply control device according to any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect. The operating device further includes a base component and an operating component. The operating member is movably coupled to the base member.

With the operating device according to the twelfth aspect, it is possible to control the power supply of the operating device using the power supply control means.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the operating device according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the base member includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and a grip put parts. The first end region has a handlebar receiving recess configured to be coupled to a handlebar. The second end region has a rounded head region. The handle portion is provided between the first end portion and the second end portion.

With the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, the operating device is mountable to the handlebar of the human-driven vehicle, and is grasped by the user when riding.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the operating device according to the twelfth aspect or the thirteenth aspect is configured such that the operating member includes a lever pivotally mounted on the main body .

With the operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect or the fourteenth aspect is configured such that the operating member includes a lever pivotally mounted on the main body.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the twelfth aspect to the fourteenth aspect is configured so that the power supply is provided to the base member and the at least one of the operating members.

With the operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, by providing the power supply on one of the base member and the operating member, a simple and compact arrangement can be provided.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the disclosure of the present invention, a control system includes the operating device according to any one of the twelfth aspect to the fifteenth aspect. The control system further includes at least one component, which is controlled in response to the operation of the operating member.

With the control system according to the sixteenth aspect, the operating device is operable to appropriately control at least one part in response to the operation of the operating member.

In addition, for those skilled in the art, other purposes, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed power supply control device will become apparent from the following implementations obtained in conjunction with the attached drawings. Various preferred embodiments of the control device.

Selected embodiments will now be illustrated with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or equivalent elements throughout the various drawings. For those who are familiar with the field of human-powered vehicles (such as the field of bicycles), it will be obvious from this disclosure that the following descriptions of these specific embodiments are provided for illustration only, and are not intended to limit. Objects of the invention as defined by the claims and their respective equivalents.

Referring initially to FIG. 1, a human-powered vehicle V1 equipped with a control system 10 according to this first embodiment is illustrated. The human-powered vehicle V1 is a vehicle configured to travel with the power of at least one user (ie, a rider) riding the human-powered vehicle V1. The human-powered vehicle V1 has any number of wheels. For example, the human-driven vehicle V1 has at least one wheel. In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the human-powered vehicle V1 is preferably smaller in size than a four-wheeled vehicle. However, the human-powered vehicle V1 may have any size. Examples of such human-powered vehicles include, but are not limited to, a bicycle, a tricycle, and a kick scooter. In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the human-driven vehicle V1 is exemplified as a road vehicle. However, the control system 10 is applicable to other human-powered vehicles as well as any type of bicycle, such as mountain bikes, off-road bikes, gravel bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, and recumbent bikes.

As shown in FIG. 1, basically, the human-powered vehicle V1 includes a frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The suspension front fork FF is pivotally coupled to the frame F at its upper end and rotatably supports the front wheel FW at its lower end. The human-powered vehicle V1 further includes a handlebar H mounted to the upper end of the front fork FF for controlling the front wheel FW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to the rear end of the frame F. The seat post SP is mounted to the seat tube of the frame F in a conventional manner and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner.

The human-driven vehicle further includes a transmission kit DT. Here, for example, the transmission set DT is of chain transmission type, which includes a crank C, a plurality of front sprockets FS, a plurality of rear sprockets CS, and a chain CN. The crank C includes a crank shaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. The crankshaft CA1 is rotatably supported to the front frame body FB via a bottom bracket in a conventional manner. The crank arms CA2 are provided on respective opposite ends of the crankshaft CA1. A pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each of the crank arms CA2. Although the drive set DT is exemplified as a chain drive type drive set, the drive set DT may be selected from any type of drive set, and may be a belt drive type or a shaft drive type. The front sprockets FS are provided on the crank C to rotate integrally with the crankshaft CA1. The rear sprockets CS are provided on the hub of the rear wheel RW. The chain CN runs around the front sprockets FS and the rear sprockets CS. A human driving force is applied to the pedals PD by a rider, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprockets FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets CS.

As seen in FIG. 2 , in a particular embodiment of the invention, the control system 10 basically includes at least one operating device OD and at least one vehicle component VC in addition to one operating device OD. In an embodiment of the present invention, the control system 10 communicates between the at least one operating device OD and the at least one vehicle component VC using wireless communication. However, the control system 10 may use wired communications and/or wireless communications as desired and/or required.

Here, the human-powered vehicle V1 is a bicycle, and the vehicle parts VC are bicycle parts BC. Therefore, the term "bicycle component BC" (bicycle component BC) as used herein generally refers to all such bicycle components of the human-powered vehicle V1. On the other hand, the term "vehicle component VC" as used herein generally refers to all such bicycle components of the human-powered vehicle V1, and except for those that can be used with the control system 10 disclosed herein Parts of vehicles other than bicycles. Thus, the operating devices are one type of vehicle parts, and here the operating device OD is one type of the bicycle parts BC of the human-powered vehicle V1.

Referring back to FIG. 1 , the vehicle part VC or the bicycle part BC includes an electrically operated device 12 or 12 ′, an electric front derailleur 16 , and an electric rear derailleur 14 . For simplicity, control system 10 will be described with respect to a single operating device OD (operating device 12) and a single bicycle component BC (rear derailleur 14). However, the control system 10 is not limited to such a configuration, but may include one or more operating devices OD and one or more vehicle components VC.

The frame F is provided with a rear derailleur 14 and an electric front derailleur 16 . The rear derailleur 14 is configured to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets CS in response to either an automatic shift signal from the cycle computer, or a user input shift from the operating device 12 Signal. The front derailleur 16 is configured to shift the chain CN between the front sprockets FS in response to either an automatic shift signal from the cycle computer CC or a user input shift signal from the operating device 12'.

The control system 10 includes the operating device OD (operating device 12 or operating device 12'), and further includes at least one part BC (rear derailleur 14 or front derailleur 16), which is controlled in response to the operating member (operating device 12 or operating operation of the device 12'). For example, the control system 10 includes an operating device 12 and a rear derailleur 14, wherein the rear derailleur 14 is controlled in response to operation of the operating member. However, the at least one component of the control system 10 is not limited to an external gear changing device such as a transmission. Rather, the at least one component includes one of a gear changing device, a suspension device, an adjustable seat post, a braking device, a display device, and a transmission assist device.

Referring to FIG. 2 to FIG. 5, the power supply control device 30 is provided for the parts of the human-driven vehicle V1 except the lamp. Here, the operating device 12 includes a power supply control device 30 . In addition, a power supply monitoring device 32 is provided for the human-powered vehicle V1. Furthermore, the operating device 12 here includes a power supply monitoring device 32 .

Basically, the power supply control device 30 includes a receiving structure 34 , a controller 36 , and an electric component 38 . As explained below, the containment structure 34 is configured to house and electrically connect to at least one power supply 40 . The power supply 40 here includes at least one primary battery. Preferably, the at least one primary battery comprises two button batteries BT1 and BT2. The button batteries BT1 and BT2 are supported by the containing structure 34 . The button batteries BT1 and BT2 are electrically connected to the controller 36 and the electric parts 38 via the receiving structure 34 . Thus, the power supply 40 is used for both the power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32 . Alternatively, the power supply 40 may be remotely located, or a central power supply may be used for the power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32 .

Here, the power supply control device 30 includes a circuit board CB1 provided to the operating device 12 . A controller 36 is provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIGS. 2 and 5 . Here, electric parts 38 are provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIGS. 2 and 5 . As explained below, the containment structure 34 may be located distally from the circuit board CB1 as schematically illustrated in FIG. 2 , or may be mounted on the circuit board CB1 as illustrated in FIG. 5 .

The controller 36 is configured to control this power supplied from the power supply 40 to the powered part 38 as explained below. Accordingly, the controller 36 is electrically connected to the motorized component 38 . In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply control device 30 includes several of these electrical components 38 , which are controlled by a controller 36 . Of course, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the electrical components 38 are not limited to the disclosed electrical components.

Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the motorized component 38 includes a wireless communicator 42 . Here, a wireless communicator 42 is provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIG. 2 . Preferably, the wireless communicator 42 includes an antenna 42a. However, the wireless communicator 42 may be provided at a location remote from the circuit board CB. The wireless communicator 42 is configured to communicate wirelessly with one or more of the bicycle parts BC. For example, the wireless communicator 42 wirelessly communicates each shift signal to the rear derailleur 14 and wirelessly communicates status information to the cycle computer CC. The wireless communicator 42 is controlled by the controller 36 either automatically according to various pre-stored programs or in response to user input.

Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the powered component 38 includes a light emitting diode (LED) circuit 44 configured to provide information on communication errors, processing errors, and remaining power supply levels. Here, an LED circuit 44 is provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIG. 2 . However, the LED circuit 44 may be provided at a location remote from the circuit board CB. LED circuit 44 is also an example of a notification device. LED circuit 44 is controlled by controller 36 as explained below.

In addition, the electric component 38 further includes a notification device 46 . The notification device 46 is configured to output a notification indicative of the corrected power supply status. For example, the controller 36 controls the notification device 46 to output the corrected power supply status to the wireless communicator 42, which in turn wirelessly communicates the corrected power supply status to the bicycle computer CC. In this way, the corrected power supply status can be displayed on the screen of the cycle computer CC. Here, notification means 46 are provided to the circuit board CB1 as seen in FIG. 2 . However, the notification device 46 may be provided at a location remote from the circuit board CB. Of course, as will be apparent from this disclosure, the motorized component 38 is not limited to the wireless communicator 42 , the LED circuit 44 , and the notification device 46 .

Referring now to Figures 1 and 3-7, the operating device 12 will now be discussed in greater detail. The operating device 12 is mounted on the handlebar H so that the rider of the human-powered vehicle V1 can selectively operate the vehicle parts from the handlebar H. Basically, the operating device 12 comprises a base member 50 and an operating member 52 . The operating member 52 is movably coupled to the base member 50 . The base member 50 is configured to be mounted to the handlebar H of the human-powered vehicle V1. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the base member 50 includes a first end portion 50a, a second end portion 50b, and a handle portion 50c. Here, the first end region 50 a corresponds to the proximal region of the base component 50 , and the second end region 50 b corresponds to the distal region 16 b of the base component 50 . The first end location 50a is opposite the second end location 50b. A handle portion 50c is provided between the first end portion 50a and the second end portion 50b.

The first end portion 50a has a handlebar receiving recess 50a1 configured to be coupled to the handlebar H. As shown in FIG. The handlebar storage recess 50a1 is arranged to accommodate the curved section of the handlebar H. As shown in FIG. A handlebar mounting structure 56 is provided to the handlebar storage recess 50a1 for mounting the base member 50 to the handlebar H. As shown in FIG. Here, the handlebar mounting structure 56 includes a clamping strap and a fastener (such as a nut and bolt) for clamping the handlebar H to secure the base member 50 to the handlebar H. As shown in FIG. The handlebar mounting structure 56 may be any suitable mounting structure and is not limited to the illustrated configuration.

The second end region 50b has a rounded head region 50b1. In other words, the round head portion 50b1 is a part of the distal portion portion of the base member 50 . The round head portion 50bl protrudes upward relative to the handle portion 50c. The round head portion 50b1 helps to constrain the forward movement of the rider's hand on the grip portion 50c.

In the case where the operating device 12 is being used as a bicycle operating device for a road vehicle, the rider sometimes grasps and leans on the grip portion 50c during riding. Here, preferably, the base member 50 is made of resin. For example, the base member 50 is made of a hard plastic material (resin) that may be fiber reinforced as desired and/or desired. The resin of the base member 50 is a rigid material suitable for the rider to grip and rest on during riding. The resin of the base member 50 is also lightweight so that the overall weight of the operating device 12 can be minimized. However, the base member 50 may be made of other suitable materials as desired and/or desired. The base member 50 is made of several parts forming a first end portion 50a, a second end portion 50b, and a handle portion 50c. However, the base member 50 may be made from one piece as desired and/or required.

While the rider is gripping the base member 50, it is desirable to provide a comfortable feel for the rider's hand. To provide a comfortable grip, the operating device 12 further includes a cover 54 at least partially covering the handle portion 50c. Accordingly, the base member 50 is partially covered with the cover 54 . Accordingly, the cover 54 is also often referred to as a handle cover, since a rider sometimes grasps the base member 50 in the area of the cover 54 during riding. In this case, the cover 54 is made of an elastomeric material. For example, the cover 54 is made of flexible rubber material. The cover 54 has a tubular configuration (with a front opening and a rear opening) such that the cover 54 is stretched over the base member 50 . In other words, the cover body 54 is an elastic member (such as rubber) covering the outer surface of the handle portion 50c. Here, the cover body 54 also partially covers the round head portion 50b1 of the base member 50 . Thus, the cover 54 provides cushioning to the handle portion 50 c of the base member 50 and also provides an attractive appearance to the base member 50 .

Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 is configured to operate the rear derailleur 14 and the rear brake RB. Here, the rear brake RB is a hydraulically operated rear brake connected to the operating device 12 by a cable. More specifically, the operating member 52 includes a lever 60 pivotally mounted on the base member 50 . The lever 60 is pivotally mounted on the second end portion 50b of the base member 50 about the pivot axis A1. For braking operation, the lever 60 is pivoted towards the handlebar H by the rider from a rest position (shown in solid lines) to an operating position (shown in dashed lines). Lever 60 is configured to operate the rear brake RB. Thus, lever 60 constitutes a brake lever.

As used herein, the term "rest position" refers to a state in which a movable part (such as rod 60) remains at rest without user or other external intervention (such as not holding rod 60) to establish a position corresponding to The state of the rest position. Therefore, the term "rest position" can also refer to a non-operating position. The terms "operated position" and "actuated position" as used herein refer to the position at which the movable part has been moved by the user from a rest position.

Here, the operating member 52 further includes a first operating rod 61 and a second operating rod 62 . The first operating lever 61 is configured to operate the first electric input switch SW1. The second operating lever 62 is configured to operate the second electric input switch SW2. The first electric input switch SW1 and the second electric input switch SW2 are mounted on a rod 60 . Here, the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 are pivotally mounted on the lever 60 about the pivot axis A2. Alternatively, the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 may be pivotally mounted on the base member 50 as desired and/or desired. Here, the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 are configured to operate the rear derailleur 14 .

One of the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 is configured to output an upshift signal, and the other of the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 is configured to output a downshift signal. Signal. However, operating the shift lever 61 and the second operating lever 62 may be configured to operate one or more electric components as desired and/or required. Furthermore, in this illustrated embodiment, although the operating member 52 is provided with the first operating lever 61 and the second operating lever 62, the first operating lever 61 may be omitted so that only the second operating lever 62 is provided as Desired and/or required operation of one or more powered components. For example, the second operating lever 62 is configurable for one of upshifting or downshifting of the rear derailleur 14 and the front derailleur 16 according to a synchronized shift path, and the operating device 12' is configurable for one of upshifting and downshifting according to the synchronized shifting path. Path upshifts or downshifts the other of the rear derailleur 14 and the front derailleur 16 .

The operating device 12 ′ is a mirror image of the operating device 12 . The operating device 12 ′ is mounted on the opposite side of the handlebar H and the operating device 12 . Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12' is configured to operate the front derailleur 16 and the front brake device FB. Therefore, the above descriptions of the operating device 12 are applicable to the operating device 12'.

As mentioned above, the operating device 12 here comprises a power supply control device 30 and a power supply monitoring device 32 . Preferably, some or all of these portions of the power supply control device 30 and/or the power supply monitoring device 32 are provided to at least one of the base member 50 and the operating member 52 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 includes a power supply 40 . Preferably, the power supply 40 is provided to at least one of the base member 50 and the operating member 52 . Here, the power supply 40 is provided to the round head part 50b1 of the base member 50 . As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the operating device 12 includes a housing structure 34 . In particular, here, the receiving structure 34 is provided for the round head portion 50b1 of the base member 50 . However, the receiving structure 34 may be provided to the handle portion 50c of the base member 50 and/or to the lever 60 of the operating member 52 .

Here, the receiving structure 34 includes a receiving portion 34A configured to receive a power supply 40 . In particular, the accommodating portion 34A is electrically connected by wires W1 and W2 provided to the circuit board CB. Thus, the containment structure 34 can be provided at a location where the power supply 40 can be easily replaced. The receiving structure 34 further includes a housing 34B and a cover 34C. The housing 34B is provided in the recess of the round head portion 50b1 of the base member 50 , and the cover 34C forms the top outer surface of the round head portion 50b1 of the base member 50 . A cover 34C is pivotally attached to the housing 34B at one end by a pivot pin 34D and is detachably attached to the housing 34B at the other end by a set screw 34E. Thus, the cover 34C is pivotally attached to the housing 34B between a closed position and an open position.

Here, the receiving portion 34A includes an electrical contact including a negative contact 34A1 and a positive contact 34A2. Negative contact 34A1 and positive contact 34A2 are electrically connected to the circuit of the circuit board CB1 by wires W1 and W2. The receiving portion 34A further includes a middle contact 34A3 disposed between the negative contact 34A1 and the positive contact 34A2 . Therefore, the receiving portion 34A forms a pair of coin-type battery storage pockets for storing the button batteries BT1 and BT2 of the power supply 40 . As mentioned above, the electrical components 38 are provided to the circuit of the circuit board CB1. In this way, the powered components 38 are electrically connected to the power supply 40 via the containment structure 34 .

Electrical connector port 64 is electrically connected to the circuit of the circuit board CB1. The electrical connector port 64 can be used to electrically connect external devices to the circuit board CB1. The external device may be a bike computer, an additional power supply, or any other additional electrical component.

Furthermore, preferably, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 includes a wireless communicator 42 . As mentioned above, the wireless communicator 42 is provided to the circuit of the circuit board CB1. However, wireless communicator 42 may be provided at other locations as desired and/or required. In addition, preferably, a wireless communicator 42 is provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member. Here, the wireless communicator 42 is provided to the round head portion 50b1 of the base member 50 .

Furthermore, preferably, in the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 12 comprises a notification device 46 . As mentioned above, the notification device 46 is provided to the circuit of the circuit board CB1. However, notification device 46 may be provided at other locations as desired and/or required. In addition, the notification device 46 is provided to the round head portion 50b1 of the base member 50 .

As seen in FIGS. 2 , 5 , and 7 , the motorized component 38 includes at least one light emitting device. As mentioned above, the light emitting device includes an LED circuit 44 . Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the at least one light emitting device includes a first light emitting device 44A and a second light emitting device 44B. The light emitting device 44A and the second light emitting device 44B are part of the LED circuit 44 on the circuit board CB1. Preferably, the first light emitting device 44A is configured to generate light of a first color, and the second light emitting device 44B is configured to generate light of a second color. The second color light is a color different from the first color light. As seen in FIG. 5 , this light from the first light emitting device 44A is visible through the base member 50 by the light panel 66 . This light from the second light emitting device 44B is also visible through the base member 50 by the light panel 66 . Basically, the light panel 66 is illuminated by this light from the first light emitting device 44A and/or the second light emitting device 44B. The light panel 66 has one or more protrusions 66a extending through one or more openings in the base member 50 to make this light from the first light emitting device 44A and/or the second light emitting device 44B visible. Here, the light panel 66 has only a single protrusion 66a for receiving the light from the first light emitting device 44A and the second light emitting device 44B.

The first light-emitting device 44A and the second light-emitting device 44B are selectively controlled (eg illuminated and/or blinked) by the controller 36 to inform the user of the power supply status of the power supply 40 (eg, the remaining power level). The first light emitting device 44A and the second light emitting device 44B are also selectively controllable by the controller 36 to notify the user of other information related to the operating device 12 as desired and/or required. For example, the first light emitting device 44A and the second light emitting device 44B can be used to inform the user of the communication status of the wireless communicator 42 and/or the operating status of the controller 36 .

Although the LED circuit 44 is illustrated on the circuit board CB1, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the LED circuit 44 may be provided on a circuit board separate from the circuit board CB1 as desired and/or required. As seen in FIG. 8 , LED circuit 44 is electrically connected to power supply 40 . Controller 36 controls this power from power supply 40 to selectively illuminate first light emitting device 44A and/or second light emitting device 44B in any combination of a steady state and/or a blinking state. The LED circuit 44 further includes a first N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor N-FET1; and a first diode D1, which is controlled by the controller 36 to selectively illuminate the first light emitting device 44A, so as to The user is notified according to a predetermined lighting pattern. Similarly, the LED circuit 44 further includes a second N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor N-FET2; and a second diode D2, which is controlled by the controller 36 to selectively illuminate the second light emitting device 44B, to notify the user according to a predetermined lighting mode.

Now, the power supply control device 30 will be discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 2 and 8 . As mentioned above, the power supply control device 30 is provided to the operating device 12 and the operating device 12'. However, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other components may be used for the power supply control device 30 . The power supply control device 30 further includes a regulation circuit 70 . The conditioning circuit 70 is electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the motorized part 38 . The regulation circuit 70 is configured to regulate the current supplied from the power supply 40 to the motorized part 38 at a constant level. As seen in FIG. 8, the regulating circuit 70 includes a constant current circuit 70A. Constant current circuit 70A is configured to generate a constant current value regardless of the voltage of power supply 40 and/or the load resistance applied to power supply 40 . Here, the power supply control device 30 further includes a step-down circuit 72 . The step-down circuit 72 is electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the powered part 38 . The step-down circuit 72 is configured to reduce the voltage supplied from the power supply 40 to the powered component 38 . The regulation circuit 70 is electrically connected to the power supply 40 , the step-down circuit 72 , and the motorized part 38 . In particular, the step-down circuit 72 is provided in the electrical path between the power supply 40 and the electrical components 38 (such as the wireless communicator 42, the LED circuit 44, and the notification device 46) so that the maximum The voltage of the voltage is received by the electric part 38 . Regulation circuit 70 is provided in the electrical path between step-down circuit 72 and powered components 38 such as wireless communicator 42 , LED circuit 44 , and notification device 46 . Here, for example, each of the button batteries BT1 and BT2 is a CR1632 button battery having a maximum voltage of 3.4 volts. Therefore, the power supply 40 has a maximum voltage of 6.8 volts (2*3.4 volts). Buck circuit 72 steps down this voltage from power supply 40 to 3.3 volts.

The power supply control device 30 includes a P-channel MOSFET P-FET and a diode D3. The P-channel MOSFET P-FET is configured to control the flow of current between the power supply 40 and the buck circuit 72 in response to a gate voltage applied to its gate terminal. The P-channel MOSFET P-FET is configured to allow current flow between the power supply 40 and the step-down circuit 72 while the gate voltage applied to the gate terminal is above a threshold voltage The flow. The P-channel MOSFET P-FET is configured to interrupt current flow between the power supply 40 and the step-down circuit 72 while the gate voltage applied to the gate terminal is equal to or lower than the threshold voltage. The flow between. The output voltage of power supply 40 is higher than the threshold voltage. The diode D3 is configured to allow current to flow in one direction from the step-down circuit 72 to the controller 36 and regulation circuit 70 . In other words, the diode D3 is configured to limit the current from flowing from the controller 36 and regulation circuit 70 to the step-down circuit 72 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply control device 30 further includes a low dropout regulator 74 electrically connected to the power supply 40 and the electric component 38 to convert a first input voltage supplied from the power supply 40 into a predetermined supply voltage supplied to the electric parts 38. The low dropout regulator 74 is a direct-current (DC) linear voltage regulator, which regulates the output voltage from the power supply 40 to minimize the current variation.

Now, the power supply monitoring device 32 will be discussed in more detail. As mentioned above, a power supply monitoring device 32 is provided for the operating device 12 and the operating device 12'. However, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other components may be used for the power supply monitoring device 32 . As seen in FIG. 8 , the power supply monitoring device 32 is integrated with the power supply control device 30 . However, the power supply monitoring device 32 may be provided without the power supply control device 30 . Likewise, the power supply control device 30 may be provided without the power supply monitoring device 32 .

Generally speaking, in the illustrated embodiment, the power supply monitoring device 32 includes a first controller 76 . The first controller 76 is configured to use the first information for value conversion in order to transmit the first information to different electrical components for a predetermined state. The predetermined state includes a state in which an electric value EV supplied by the power supply 40 is less than a predetermined value. To avoid error fluctuations of the first information, the first controller 76 is configured to suspend one or more activities affecting the first information during the transition of the value. The first controller 76 is configured to suspend at least one of the activities related to the change of the first aspect of information in order to perform the value conversion. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a second controller 78 . The second controller 78 is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the first information received from the first controller 76 and second information affecting the corrected power supply state. In the illustrated embodiment, the corrected power supply state corresponds to a remaining power supply level or a power supply discharge level. That is, since the voltage of the power supply 40 may fluctuate greatly depending on the temperature and/or the electrical load, the voltage of the power supply 40 is corrected so that the power supply state can be more accurately detected.

The corrected power supply status can be output to the user using the notification device 46 . Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, power supply monitoring device 32 further includes notification device 46 configured to output a notification indicative of the corrected power supply status. More specifically, the notification device 46 is controlled by the second controller 78 to transmit the value for analog-to-digital conversion to the cycle computer using the wireless communicator 42 . Alternatively, the notification device 46 may be electrically connected to a display screen provided on the operation device 12 or a location remote from the operation device 12 via a cable.

The first controller 76 and the second controller 78 may be one controller (ie, the controller 36 ), or two controllers. The first controller 76 and the second controller 78 may be arranged on the same circuit board, or on different circuit boards. In any case, both the first controller 76 and the second controller 78 are electrically connected to the power supply 40 . Alternatively, the first controller 76 and the second controller 78 are incorporated into the controller 36 .

The first controller 76 is an electronic controller, which is preferably a microcomputer or a central processing unit (CPU) including at least one processor 76A and a memory 76B (ie at least one computer storage device). The electronic controller 12 is formed by one or more semiconductor chips mounted on the circuit board CB1. As used herein, the term "electronic controller" refers to hardware that executes software programs and does not include a person. The processor 76A is configured to control the memory 76B to store data in the storage areas of the memory 76B and to read data from the storage areas of the memory 76B. The first electrical input switch SW1 and the second electrical input switch SW2 are electrically connected to the processor 76A and memory 76B via respective conductive paths and/or system bus bars of the circuit board CB1. The memory 76B (such as the ROM) stores programs. The program is read into the processor 76A, and the configuration and/or algorithm of the first controller 76 is performed accordingly.

Memory 76B is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, with the sole exception of temporarily propagating signals. For example, memory 76B can include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and can include an internal memory, or other types of memory devices, such as a read only memory (Read Only Memory, ROM) device , a random access memory (Random Access Memory, RAM) device, a hard disk, a flash drive, etc.

The second controller 78 is an electronic controller, preferably a microcomputer or central processing unit (CPU) including at least one processor 78A and memory 78B (ie at least one computer storage device). The electronic controller 12 is formed by one or more semiconductor chips mounted on the circuit board CB1. The processor 78A is configured to control the memory 78B to store data in the storage areas of the memory 78B and to read data from the storage areas of the memory 78B. The first electrical input switch SW1 and the second electrical input switch SW2 are electrically connected to the processor 78A and the memory 78B via respective conductive paths and/or system bus bars of the circuit board CB1. The memory 78B (such as the ROM) stores programs. The program is read into the processor 78A and the configuration and/or algorithm of the second controller 78 is performed accordingly.

Memory 78B is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, with the sole exception of temporarily propagating signals. For example, memory 78B may include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and may include an internal memory, or other types of memory devices such as a read-only memory (ROM) device, a random access memory Take memory (RAM) devices, a hard disk, a pen drive, and the like.

As seen in FIG. 9 , the voltage of power supply 40 is affected by the temperature of power supply 40 . For example, when the power supply 40 is fully charged at a temperature of 50°, the voltage of the power supply 40 is about 6.4 volts. However, when the power supply 40 is fully charged at a temperature of −10°, the voltage of the power supply 40 drops to about 5.7 volts. The variation of the voltage of the power supply 40 becomes larger as the discharge level increases (ie, the remaining power decreases). Thus, as seen in Figure 10, the second controller 78 is configured to apply a correction to correct the voltage of the power supply 40 for changes in temperature. The corrected voltage corresponds to the voltage available from the power supply 40 to operate the powered part 38 due to the temperature change. In this way, the fluctuations in the voltage of the power supply 40 are reduced for changes in temperature. The graph of FIG. 10 can be pre-stored in the memory 78B of the second controller 78 . However, the correction system is not limited to obtaining corrected voltage values. For example, the detected electrical value (EV) of the power supply 40 can be revised by the second controller 78 using pre-stored temperature correction data such that the correction is applied to the detected electrical value of the power supply 40 EV. In this way, the predetermined state is used to determine the point in time for the value conversion using the first information.

FIG. 11 shows a table correlating the voltage of the power supply 40 at different temperatures for the purpose of estimating the actual discharge level of the power supply 40 . The table of FIG. 11 can be pre-stored in the memory 78B of the second controller 78 . Strictly speaking, in the illustrated embodiment, the correction by the second controller 78 does not correct the voltage value. Rather, for example, as shown in the table of FIG. 11, the actual power supply level may be determined based on the detected temperature and the detected voltage. This function by the second controller 78 is also called calibration. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the second controller 78 includes a memory 78B having calibration data associating the corrected power supply 40 state with one of complex temperature and complex power supply state.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first information relates to the detected voltage of the power supply 40 . The voltage of the power supply 40 varies based on the electrical load of at least one power supply 40 . Therefore, the voltage of the power supply 40 can be determined by detecting the electrical load of the power supply 40 . Here, the power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a first detector 81 . The position of the first detector 81 is not limited to the illustrated position. Rather, the first detector 81 can be located anywhere an electrical value can be detected to determine the current state of the power supply 40 . In other words, the first detector 81 may be provided or arranged at a different position from the illustrated position, as long as the first detector 81 can detect the current state of the power supply 40 . In addition, the first detector 81 can be used to detect the electric value EV of the power supply 40 for determining whether the predetermined state exists for using the first information to perform the value conversion. The first detector 81 is configured to detect the first information related to the electrical load of the power supply 40 . Therefore, the first detector 81 is an electrical load detector for detecting the electrical load of the power supply 40 . Therefore, the first detector 81 is configured to detect the voltage of the power supply 40 as the first information. Of course, as will be apparent from this disclosure, the first detector 81 is not limited to the particular embodiment illustrated.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second information relates to the temperature of the power supply 40 . The power supply monitoring device 32 further includes a second detector 82 . The second detector 82 is configured to detect the second information related to the temperature of the power supply 40 . Here, the second detector 82 includes a thermistor. The location of the second detector 82 is not limited to the illustrated location. Rather, the second detector 82 can be located anywhere that the temperature of the power supply 40 can be detected. In other words, the second detector 82 may be provided or arranged at other locations than the illustrated location.

The second controller 78 is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the first information and the second information. In other words, the second controller 78 is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on the detected voltage or load (the first information) and the detected temperature (the second information). In this way, the corrected voltage (corrected power supply status) can be used to more accurately estimate the discharge level (ie, the remaining charge or voltage). Preferably, the second controller 78 is configured to activate the second detector 82 in response to a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition includes at least one of a predetermined time interval, a reset operation of the controller 36, the first controller 76, or the second controller 78, and a user input operation. In other words, every time the predetermined situation occurs, the second controller 78 updates the second information. Or, for example, the second information may only be detected and adjusted when it is needed for estimating the calibrated power supply state or some other use.

In addition, the first controller 76 is configured to control the first detector 81 to detect the first information in a predetermined state. The predetermined state includes a state in which the electric value EV supplied by the power supply 40 is less than a predetermined value. In other words, when the electrical load of the power supply 40 is less than a predetermined load value, the first controller 76 controls the first detector 81 to detect the electrical load of the power supply 40 as the first information. Since the voltage of the power supply 40 can be determined from the electrical load, the first controller 76 controls the first detector 81 to detect the electrical load of the power supply 40, and the first controller 76 determines the voltage of the power supply 40 as the first information.

The first detector 81 generates a ratiometric value of the electrical load, which needs to be converted into a digital value that can be used by the first controller 76 . Accordingly, the first controller 76 is configured to use the first information for value conversion to transmit the first information to a different electrical component in the predetermined state. That is, here, the value conversion includes an analog-to-digital conversion. In other words, in the illustrated embodiment, the first controller 76 performs a value conversion of the voltage from an analog value to a digital value determined based on the detected electrical load. Preferably, the first controller 76 is configured to perform this value conversion in response to receiving a control input from the motorized component 38 . For example, when the wireless communicator 42 (electric component 38 ) receives a signal from the first electric input switch SW1 or the second electric input switch SW2 via the controller 36 (the first controller 76 and/or the second controller 78 ), control input.

This value conversion routine consumes a lot of power. Accordingly, the first controller 76 is configured to suspend at least one of the activities related to the change of the first information in order to perform the value conversion. The at least one of the activities includes the activity of dealing with increasing the electrical load of the power supply 40 . This suspension of the processing activity of the first controller and/or the second controller during the analog-to-digital conversion is shown in FIG. 12 . Therefore, during this suspension period, the notification of the discharge level or the remaining power level of the power supply 40 is not changed. Once the analog-to-digital conversion process has ended, normal processing activities will resume. In other words, the controller 36 (the first controller 76 and/or the second controller 78 ) will resume updating the discharge level or the remaining power level of the power supply 40 .

In the above description, the power supply monitoring device 32 includes one or two controllers (the controller 36 or the first controller 76 and the second controller 78 ), the first detector 81 , and the second detector 82 . However, the power supply monitoring device 32 may only be equipped with the controller 36 and the second detector 82 . In other words, in this configuration, the power supply monitoring device 32 includes the detector 82 and a controller 36 . Detector 82 is configured to detect information related to the temperature of power supply 40 . Controller 36 is configured to estimate a corrected power supply state based on this information. Accordingly, controller 36 estimates a corrected power supply state based on this temperature of power supply 40 .

Referring back to FIG. 2, preferably, each of these bicycle parts BC (such as the rear derailleur 14 and the front derailleur 16) includes a third controller 90, a position detector 92, an actuator driver 94, an actuator 96, A power supply 98, and a wireless communicator 100. Here, the third controller 90, the position detector 92, the actuator driver 94, and the wireless communicator 100 are provided to the circuit board CB2. However, as will be apparent from this disclosure, the third controller 90, position detector 92, actuator driver 94, and wireless communicator 100 may be provided to different circuit boards at different locations. In addition, although the bicycle parts BC are illustrated with their own individual power supplies, the bicycle parts BC may share the power supplied to one of the bicycle parts BC or on the frame F of the human-powered vehicle V1 at the remote end. power supply.

The wireless communicator 100 receives each wireless control signal transmitted from the wireless communicator 42 . The wireless control signals are processed by a third controller 90 which controls actuators 96 via actuator drivers 94 . Therefore, the actuator driver 94 controls the actuator 96 based on the control signal of the third controller 90 . Examples of actuator 96 include a direct current (DC) motor and a stepper motor. In the case of the rear derailleur 14 , the actuator 96 includes a rotating shaft that is operably coupled to a chain guide of the rear derailleur 14 . Position detector 92 is configured to sense the current gear position of rear derailleur 14 . Examples of position detector 92 include a potentiometer and a rotary encoder. Position detector 92 is configured to sense the absolute rotational position of the axis of rotation of actuator 96 as the current gear position of rear derailleur 14 . Actuator 96 and position detector 92 are electrically connected to actuator driver 94 . The human-powered vehicle V2 includes a frame F supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The suspension front fork FF is pivotally coupled to the frame F at its upper end and rotatably supports the front wheel FW at its lower end. The human-powered vehicle V2 further includes a handlebar H mounted to the upper end of the front fork FF for controlling the front wheel FW. The rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to the rear end of the frame F. The seat post SP is mounted to the seat tube of the frame F in a conventional manner and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-15 , an operating device 112 is illustrated according to another embodiment. In view of this similarity between operating device 12 and operating device 112 , respective identical reference numbers for operating device 12 will be used to designate those corresponding or equivalent elements of operating device 112 . Basically, the operating device 112 is the same as the operating device 12 except that the power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32 are provided to the lever 60 of the operating member 52 instead of the base member 50 . However, as illustrated in phantom in FIG. 13 , or if desired, a receiving structure 34 ′ may be at least partially provided to the handle portion 50 c of the base member 50 .

As seen in FIG. 15 , here in this particular embodiment, the operating device 112 includes a receiving structure 134 which is provided for the rod 60 of the operating member 52 . Here, the receiving structure 34 includes a receiving portion 134A configured to receive the power supply 40 . In particular, the receiving portion 134A is provided for the circuit board CB1'. The receiving structure 134 further includes a housing 134B and a cover 134C. A housing 134B is provided for the rod 60 and houses the controller 36, the electric components 38, the circuit board CB1', the power supply 40, the first electric input switch SW1, and the second electric input switch SW2. Cover 134C is detachably attached to housing 134B. Wireless communicator 42, LED circuit 44, and notification device 46 (ie, the electric parts 38) are also provided to the circuit board CB1'. Here, the receiving portion 134A includes an electrical contact 134D. The electrical connector 134D may be, for example, a terminal electrically connected to an electrical path of the receiving portion 134A and configured to support a power supply 40 on the circuit board CB1'. In this manner, in the illustrated embodiment, the powered components 38 are electrically connected to the power supply 40 via the containment structure 134 .

Referring now to Figure 16, a human powered vehicle V2 equipped with the control system 10 discussed above is illustrated. Here, the human-powered vehicle V2 is exemplified as a power-assisted bicycle specially designed for off-road use. Since the human-powered vehicle V1 and the human-powered vehicle V2 are bicycles with many common parts, the same reference numbers used in connection with the human-powered vehicle V1 will also be used with reference to the human-powered vehicle V2 to calibrate the Corresponding or equivalent elements to those of the human-powered vehicle V2.

In the human-powered vehicle V2, the operating device SL including the configuration of the operating device OD shown in FIG. 2 is provided. Accordingly, the operating device SL is equipped with the power supply control means 30 and the power supply monitoring means 32 discussed above. This operating device SL differs from the operating device 12 in that it is configured for a handlebar H of the flat type.

The human-driven vehicle V2 is further different from the human-powered vehicle V1 in that the human-driven vehicle V2 further includes an adjustable seat post 18, a front suspension 20, a transmission auxiliary device 22, a rear brake device RB, and a front brake device FB, and a display device SC. Each of the adjustable seat post 18, front suspension 20, transmission assist device 22, the rear brake RB, the front brake FB, and the display SC includes the bicycle part BC shown in FIG. The configuration of the pedelec parts. In other words, the operating device SL is configured to operate the bicycle parts BC (adjustable seatpost 18, front suspension 20, transmission assist device 22, the rear brake RB, the front brake FB, and the display SC). one or more. Preferably, here, the rear derailleur 14 is controlled in response to the operation of the operating member of the operating device SL. In addition, preferably, here, the human-driven vehicle V2 includes various additional operating devices, which include the adjustable seat post 18, the front suspension 20, the transmission auxiliary device 22, the rear brake device RB, the front brake The configuration of the operating device OD shown in FIG. 2 of the device FB, and the display device SC.

The power supply control device 30 and the power supply monitoring device 32 may be included in one or more of the bicycle parts BC of the human-driven vehicle V2. Thus, the power supplies of the cycle parts BC of the human-powered vehicle V2 can be controlled and/or monitored in the same manner as described above with respect to the operating device 12 .

In understanding the scope of the present invention, as used herein, the term "comprising" (comprising) and its derivatives are intended to be open-ended terms, which expressly describe the stated features, elements, parts, groups, The presence of integers and/or steps does not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, parts, groups, integers, and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "including", "having", and their derivatives. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part", "section", "portion", "member", or "element" shall be used in the singular When used, this dual meaning can have a single part or plural parts.

As used in the text, the following directional terms "frame facing side", "non-frame facing side", "forward", "rearward" ( rearward, "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above", "below", "upward" ), "downward", "top" (top), "bottom" (bottom), "side" (side), "vertical" (vertical), "horizontal" (horizontal), "vertical" (perpendicular ), and "transverse" (transverse), and any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions of a human-propelled vehicle (such as a bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with this power supply control device. Accordingly, the directional terms, as utilized to describe the power supply control device, should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) equipped with the power supply control device in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to denote the "right" when referenced from the right as viewed from the rear of the human-propelled vehicle (such as a bicycle), and are used Indicates the "left" when referring to the left side as viewed from the rear of the human-powered vehicle (eg, bicycle).

The phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "one or more" of the desired choice. As an example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only one of" if the number of choices is two single choice) or "both of two choices". As another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single Choice" (only one single choice) or "any combination of equal to or more than two choices" (any combination of equal to or more than two choices). Furthermore, the term "and/or" as used in this disclosure means "either one or both of".

Furthermore, it will be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one part from another. Thus, for example, a first element discussed above could be termed a second element and vice versa without departing from these teachings of the invention.

As used herein, the term "attached" or "attaching" encompasses configurations in which an element is directly affixed to another element by directly attaching the element to the other element; wherein configurations in which the element is indirectly fixed to the other element by attaching the element to the intermediate member(s) which in turn are attached to the other element; and wherein one element is integral with the other element (i.e. a An element is basically a part of another element). This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, such as "joined", "connected", "coupled", "mounted", "bonded", "fixed" "(fixed), and its derivatives. Finally, the terms "substantially", "about", and "approximately" as used herein mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result will not significant change.

While only selected specific embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from what is set forth in the appended claims. The scope of the invention is defined. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, location, or orientation of the various parts may be changed as desired and/or required so long as such changes do not materially affect their intended function. Can. Unless specifically stated otherwise, elements shown directly connected or in contact with each other may have intermediate structures disposed therebetween so long as such modifications do not materially affect their intended function. Such functions of one element may be performed by two, and vice versa unless specifically stated otherwise. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. Not all advantages are necessarily present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature (alone or in combination with other features) which is unique from the prior art is also to be considered as a separate description of each further invention by the applicant, including the structural and/or features embodied by such feature(s) or functional concepts. Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments in accordance with the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their respective equivalents.

10: Control system 12: Electric operating device; operating device; electronic controller 12': electric operating device; operating device 14: electric rear derailleur; rear derailleur; geared rear derailleur 16: Electric front derailleur; front derailleur 16b: Distal part 18:Adjustable seat post 20: Front suspension 22: Transmission auxiliary device 30: Power supply control device 32: Power supply monitoring device 34, 34’, 134: containment structure 34A, 134A: accommodating part 34A1: negative contact 34A2: positive contact 34A3: Intermediate contact 34B, 134B: Shell 34C, 134C: cover 34D: Pivot Pin 34E: set screw 36: Controller 38: Electric parts 40,98: power supply 42,100: wireless communicator 42a: Antenna 44:Light-emitting diode (LED) circuit 44A: first light emitting device; light emitting device 44B: Second light emitting device 46: Notification device 50: Base member 50a: first end portion 50a1: handlebar storage recess 50b: second end portion 50b1: round head part 50c: Grip part 52: Operating components 54: cover body 56:Handlebar installation structure 60: Rod 61: the first operating lever; operate the shift lever 62: Second joystick 64: Electrical connector port 66: Light panel 66a: Protrusion 70: Regulating circuit 70A: constant current circuit 72: Step-down circuit 74: Low dropout regulator 76: First controller 76A, 78A: Processor 76B, 78B: memory 78: Second controller 81: First detector 82: second detector; detector 83:Analog-To-Digital Converter (ADC) 84: Digital-to-analog converter (Analog-To-Digital Converter, ADC) 90: Third controller 92: Position detector 94:Actuator driver 96:Actuator 112: operating device 134D: electrical connector A1, A2: Pivot axis BC: bicycle parts BT1, BT2: Button battery C: Crank CA1: crankshaft CA2: crank arm CB1, CB, CB2, CB1': circuit board CC: Cycling Computer CN:Chain CS: rear sprocket D1: the first diode D2: second diode D3: Diode DT: transmission kit F: Frame FB: front frame body; front brake device FF: suspension front fork; front fork FS: front sprocket FW: front wheel H: handlebar N-FET1: The first N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor N-FET2: The second N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor OD, SL: operating device PD: pedal P-FET: P-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor RB: rear brake device RW: rear wheel S: bicycle seat or seat cushion SC: display device SP: Seatpost SW1: First motorized input switch SW2: Second motorized input switch V1, V2: human-driven car VC: vehicle parts W1, W2: wire

Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this original disclosure.

Fig. 1 is a side elevational view of a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) equipped with a power supply control device and a power supply monitoring device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the control system of the manpower-driven vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1 .

Fig. 3 is an internal elevation view of the operating device mounted to the handlebar of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1 .

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the operating device illustrated in FIG. 3 .

Fig. 5 is a central longitudinal sectional view of the operating device illustrated in Figs. 3 and 4 .

FIG. 6 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 as seen along section line 6 - 6 of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the power supply control device and the power supply monitoring device of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 6 .

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the power supply control device including the power supply monitoring device of the human-driven vehicle illustrated in FIG. 1 .

9 is a graph showing various discharge levels of the power supply versus various detected voltages of the power supply at various temperatures prior to calibration.

10 is a graph showing the relationship of the discharge levels of the power supply versus the corrected voltages of the power supply after correction for temperature.

11 is a table showing the relationship of the discharge levels of the power supply to the corrected voltages of the power supply after correction for temperature.

Figure 12 is a graph showing battery current and battery voltage values when processing of content is suspended during analog to digital conversion.

Fig. 13 is an external elevation view of the operating device mounted to the handlebar of the human-powered vehicle illustrated in Fig. 1 .

Fig. 14 is a partial internal elevation view of a part of the operating device illustrated in Fig. 13 .

FIG. 15 is a sectional view of the operating device illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 as seen along section line 15 - 15 of FIG. 14 .

Fig. 16 is a side elevational view of a human-powered vehicle (such as a bicycle) equipped with a power supply control device and a power supply monitoring device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

34:Accommodating structure

34A:Accommodating part

36: Controller

40: Power supply

42: Wireless communicator

42a: Antenna

44:Light-emitting diode (LED) circuit

44A: first light emitting device; light emitting device

44B: Second light emitting device

46: Notification device

70: Regulating circuit

70A: constant current circuit

72: Step-down circuit

74: Low dropout regulator

76: First controller

76A, 78A: Processor

76B, 78B: memory

78: Second controller

81: First detector

82: second detector; detector

83: Digital-to-analog converter (Analog-To-Digital Converter, ADC)

84: Digital-to-analog converter (Analog-To-Digital Converter, ADC)

BT1, BT2: Button battery

CB1: circuit board

D1: the first diode

D2: second diode

D3: Diode

N-FET1: The first N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor

N-FET2: The second N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor

P-FET: P-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor

SW1: First motorized input switch

SW2: Second motorized input switch

Claims (16)

A power supply control device for a part of a human-driven vehicle, the part is not a lamp, the power supply control device includes: a containment structure configured to contain and electrically connect to at least one power supply; an electric component electrically connected to the power supply via the containment structure; a regulation circuit electrically connected to the power supply and the motorized part, the regulation circuit configured to regulate the current supplied from the power supply to the motorized part at a constant level; and A controller is electrically connected to the electric component. The power supply control device as described in Claim 1, wherein: The regulating circuit includes a constant current circuit. A power supply control device for a part of a human-driven vehicle, the part is not a lamp, the power supply control device includes: a containment structure configured to contain and electrically connect to at least one power supply; an electric component electrically connected to the power supply via the containment structure; a step-down circuit electrically connected to the power supply and the electric part, the step-down circuit configured to reduce the voltage supplied from the power supply to the electric part; and A controller is electrically connected to the electric component. The power supply control device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The motorized part includes at least one light emitting device. The power supply control device as described in Claim 4, wherein: The at least one light emitting device includes a first light emitting device and a second light emitting device. The power supply control device as described in Claim 5, wherein: The first light emitting device is configured to generate a first color of light, and the second light emitting device is configured to generate a second color of light different from the first color of light. The power supply control device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The electric component includes a wireless communicator. The power supply control device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The power supply includes at least one primary battery. The power supply control device as described in Claim 8, wherein: The at least one primary battery includes two button cells. The power supply control device described in any one of claims 1 to 3 further includes: A low dropout regulator is electrically connected to the power supply and the electric component to convert a first input voltage supplied by the power supply to a predetermined supply voltage for the electric component. The power supply control device as described in claim 3 further includes: a regulation circuit electrically connected to the power supply, the step-down circuit, and the motorized part, the regulation circuit configured to regulate current supplied from the power supply to the motorized part at a constant level; An operating device, including the power supply control device described in any one of claims 1 to 11, and further including: a base member; and An operating member is movably coupled to the base member. The operating device as described in Claim 12, wherein: The base member includes: a first end portion having a coupling portion configured to couple to a handlebar; a second end portion having a knob portion; and A handle portion is provided between the first end portion and the second end portion. The operating device as described in claim 12 or 13, wherein: The operating member includes a lever pivotally mounted on the body. The operating device as described in claim 12 or 13, wherein: The power supply is provided to at least one of the base member and the operating member. A control system, comprising the operating device described in any one of claims 12-15, and further comprising: At least one part is controlled in response to the operation of the operating member.

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