TW202325598A - Saddle sensor assembly, human-powered vehicle control system comprising saddle sensor assembly, saddle assembly comprising saddle sensor assembly, and seatpost assembly comprising saddle sensor assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A saddle sensor assembly is basically provided with a sensing part, a sensed part and an adjuster part. The sensing part is configured to be arranged at a first location provided to one of a saddle and a seatpost. The sensed part is configured to be arranged at a second location provided to one of the saddle and the seatpost so that the sensed part is spaced from the sensing part. The adjuster part is provided to one of the sensing part and the sensed part so as to adjust a distance between the sensing part and the sensed part. The saddle sensor assembly can be a part of a human-powered vehicle control system. The saddle sensor assembly can be incorporated into either a saddle assembly or a seatpost assembly.

Description

Seat sensor assembly, human vehicle control system including seat cushion sensor assembly, seat cushion assembly including seat cushion sensor assembly, and seat tube assembly including seat cushion sensor assembly

The present invention generally relates to a seat cushion sensor assembly, a human vehicle control system including a seat cushion sensor assembly, a seat cushion assembly including a seat cushion sensor assembly and a seat cushion The seat tube assembly of the sensor assembly.

In recent years, some human-powered vehicles have been equipped with electrical components or devices that automatically adjust based on at least one riding condition. For example, US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0046339 discloses adjusting the suspension of a bicycle based on a riding posture of a rider.

In general, the present invention relates to various features of a seat sensor assembly for a human-powered vehicle. The seat cushion sensor assembly may be a component of a human vehicle control system that controls a vehicle component based on a detection result of the seat cushion sensor assembly. The seat cushion sensor assembly may be incorporated into a seat cushion assembly or a seat tube assembly. It is an object of the present invention to provide a seat cushion sensor assembly that maintains sensing reliability after a long period of use.

The term "human-powered vehicle" as used herein refers to a vehicle that can be propelled by at least human power, but does not include a vehicle that uses only a power other than human power. Specifically, a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine as a driving force is not included in human-powered vehicles. A human-powered vehicle is generally considered a compact light vehicle, which sometimes does not require a license plate to travel on a public road. The number of wheels on a human vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, a wheelbarrow and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, 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 electrically assisted bicycle (E-bike). bike)).

In view of the state-of-the-art known technology and according to a first aspect of the present invention, a seat cushion sensor assembly is provided, which basically includes a sensing component, a sensed component and an adjuster component. The sensing component is configured to be disposed at a first position provided to one of the seat cushion and the seat tube. The sensed component is configured to be disposed at a second position provided to one of the seat cushion and the seat tube such that the sensed component is spaced from the sensing component. The adjuster part is arranged to one of the sensing part and the sensed part to adjust a distance between the sensing part and the sensed part.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the first aspect, the sensing reliability of the sensing member can be maintained after the seat cushion sensor assembly has been used for a long time.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the first aspect is configured such that the adjuster part is arranged to the sensing part.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the second aspect, the sensing part can be moved closer to or further away from the sensed part to calibrate the sensing part's sensing of the sensed part.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the first aspect is configured such that the adjuster part is provided to the sensed part.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the third aspect, the sensed part can be moved closer to or further away from the sensing part to calibrate the sensing of the sensed part by the sensing part.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the seat sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the third aspect is configured so that the adjuster member includes a sensor configured to adjust the sensor assembly. An adjustment screw for the distance between the measuring part and the sensed part.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the fourth aspect, the distance between the sensing part and the sensed part can be infinitely adjusted within a prescribed range.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the fourth aspect further includes a sensor base configured to be mounted to the seat cushion or the seat tube, and the adjustment A screw is adjustably disposed between the sensor base and one of the sensing part and the sensed part.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the fifth aspect, it is possible to easily attach one of the sensing member and the sensed member to the seat cushion in an adjustable manner using the sensor base Or that seatpost.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the fifth aspect is configured such that the adjustment screw is rotatably held to the sensor base by a holding member.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the sixth aspect, the adjustment screw can be reliably held by the holding member to the sensor base.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the fourth aspect is configured such that the adjustment screw is attached to one of the sensing part and the sensed part, and the The adjustment screw is configured to thread into a hole in the seat cushion.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the seventh aspect, one of the sensing member and the sensed member can be easily and reliably adjusted relative to the seat cushion.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect is configured so that the sensing part is configured to be set to the seat A seat portion of a pad.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the eighth aspect, the sensing member can be conveniently positioned to the seat cushion.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect is configured so that the sensed part is configured to be set to the A seat portion of a seat cushion.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the ninth aspect, the sensed component can be conveniently assigned to the seat cushion.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the ninth aspect is configured such that the sensing part includes a non-contact sensor .

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the tenth aspect, a rider sitting on the seat cushion can be easily detected using a non-contact sensor.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the ninth aspect is configured such that the sensing part includes a touch sensor .

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the eleventh aspect, a rider sitting on the seat cushion can be reliably detected using a contact sensor.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a seat cushion sensor assembly, which basically includes a sensing component and a sensed component. The sensing component is configured to be disposed at a first position provided to one of the seat cushion and the seat tube. The sensed component is configured to be disposed at a second position provided to one of the seat cushion and the seat tube such that the sensed component is spaced from the sensing component. One of the sensing component and the sensed component is set to a seat cushion clamp of the seat tube.

Using the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the twelfth aspect, the seat cushion sensor assembly can be integrated into various seat cushions or seat tubes.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the twelfth aspect further includes a sensor base supporting the sensing part or the sensed part, and the sensor The tester base is integrated with the cushion fixture.

With the seat cushion sensor assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, the seat cushion sensor assembly can be integrated into the seat cushion clamp of the seat tube.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a human vehicle control system includes the seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the thirteenth aspect, and further includes a controller , the controller configured to receive a signal from the sensing component and configured to determine a condition of a rider.

With the human-powered vehicle control system according to the fourteenth aspect, the detection result of the sensing part can be used to determine the condition of a rider.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the human-powered vehicle control system according to the fourteenth aspect is configured such that the rider's condition includes a rider's posture.

With the human-powered vehicle control system according to the fifteenth aspect, the posture of a rider can be regarded as the condition of the rider by the sensing part.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the human-powered vehicle control system according to the fifteenth aspect is configured such that the posture of the rider includes at least one of a sitting posture and a standing posture.

With the human-powered vehicle control system according to the sixteenth aspect, at least one of a sitting posture and a standing posture can be detected by the sensing part to indicate the posture of the rider.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the human-powered vehicle control system according to any one of the fourteenth aspect to the sixteenth aspect is configured such that the rider's condition includes a rider's One of the fatigue estimates.

With the human-powered vehicle control system according to the seventeenth aspect, the controller can estimate a degree of fatigue of a rider based on the detection results of the sensing part.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the human vehicle control system according to any one of the fourteenth aspect to the seventeenth aspect further includes a data storage device electrically connected to the The controller is configured to store a reference value to determine the condition of the rider.

Using the human-powered vehicle control system according to the eighteenth aspect, a reference value stored in the data storage device and the detection results of the sensing part can be compared to determine the condition of the rider.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the human vehicle control system according to any one of the fourteenth aspect to the eighteenth aspect further includes a wireless communicator electrically connected to the A controller configured to wirelessly transmit the condition of the rider from the controller.

Using the human-powered vehicle control system according to the nineteenth aspect, the condition of the rider can be transmitted from the controller to a vehicle component without the need for a wire.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the human vehicle control system according to the nineteenth aspect is configured such that the wireless communicator is configured to wirelessly receive commands for the controller.

With the human vehicle control system according to the twentieth aspect, the controller can wirelessly receive commands for changing pre-stored data and/or for changing detection or analysis programs performed by the controller.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the human-powered vehicle control system according to any one of the fourteenth aspect to the twentieth aspect further includes a display device configured to automatically The controller receives information and is configured to display the condition of the rider.

With the human-powered vehicle control system according to the twenty-first aspect, a rider can be notified of the rider's condition on a display.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the human vehicle control system according to any one of the fourteenth aspect to the twenty-first aspect further includes a power supply configured to supplied to the human control system.

With the human vehicle control system according to the twenty-second aspect, electrical components can receive power from the power source.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the human-powered vehicle control system according to any one of the fourteenth aspect to the twenty-second aspect further includes a human-powered vehicle component, and the human-powered vehicle component configured to receive commands from the controller to perform a predetermined action based on the condition of the rider.

Using the human-powered vehicle control system according to the twenty-third aspect, a human-powered vehicle component can be controlled to perform a predetermined action according to the condition of the rider detected by the seat cushion sensor assembly.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, a seat cushion assembly includes a seat cushion and a seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the thirteenth aspect, and wherein the A seat cushion sensor assembly is attached to the seat cushion.

With the seat cushion assembly according to the twenty-fourth aspect, the seat cushion sensor assembly can be integrated into a seat cushion.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, a seat tube assembly includes a seat tube and a seat cushion sensor assembly according to any one of the first aspect to the thirteenth aspect, and wherein the One of the sensing part and the sensed part of the seat cushion sensor assembly is attached to the seat tube.

With the seat tube assembly according to the twenty-fifth aspect, the seat sensor assembly can be integrated into the seat tube, so that various seat cushions can be used together with the seat tube assembly.

Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand other objectives and features of the disclosed seat cushion sensor assembly, the disclosed human vehicle control system, the disclosed seat cushion assembly, and the disclosed seat tube assembly from the following detailed description , aspects and advantages, the detailed description discloses preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Selected embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings. Those familiar with the art of human transportation (eg, bicycles) will appreciate from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is provided for illustration only and is not intended to limit the present invention as defined by the appended patent claims and their equivalents. purpose of the invention.

Referring first to FIG. 1 , a human-powered vehicle control system 10 for a human-powered vehicle V according to a first embodiment is provided. The human vehicle control system 10 includes a seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . As explained below, the human-powered vehicle control system 10 is configured to use the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 to control a vehicle component based on the condition of a rider. The seat cushion sensor assembly 12 is attached to a seat cushion 14 . Therefore, the seat cushion assembly 16 includes the seat cushion 14 and the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . Alternatively, the seat sensor assembly 12 may be attached to the seat tube 18 . Here, in the first embodiment, the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 is attached to the seat cushion 14 . Seat cushion 14 is attached to seat tube 18, which in the first embodiment is a height-adjustable seat tube.

Although the human-powered vehicle V is shown in FIG. 1 as a bicycle with two wheels, the number of wheels on the human-powered vehicle V is not limited. Human-powered vehicles V include, for example, a wheelbarrow and vehicles including three or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle V is not limited to one configured to be propelled by only a human-powered driving force. The human-powered vehicle V includes an electric bicycle that is propelled using the driving force of a motor in addition to the human-powered driving force. Electric bicycles include an electrically assisted bicycle with a motor for assisted propulsion. In the embodiments described below, the human-powered vehicle V refers to an electric-assisted bicycle. However, the bicycle component control system 10 is applicable to any other type of bicycle, such as, for example, a road bicycle, a mountain bike, a cyclocross bicycle, a gravel bike, an urban Bicycles, a cargo bike and a recumbent bike.

As shown in FIG. 1, a human-powered vehicle V includes a vehicle body VB supported by a rear wheel RW and a front wheel FW. The vehicle body VB basically includes a front frame body FB and a rear frame body RB. Here, the rear frame body RB is pivotally coupled to one of the swing arms of the front frame body FB. The vehicle body VB also has a handlebar H. A front suspension fork FF is pivotally coupled at its upper end to the vehicle body VB, and rotatably supports the front wheel FW at its lower end. A handlebar H is attached to the upper end of the front suspension fork FF to steer the front wheel FW. The front suspension fork FF absorbs the shock transmitted from the front wheel FW. The rear frame body RB is swingably mounted to a rear section of the front frame body FB such that the rear frame body RB can pivot relative to the front frame body FB. A rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to a rear end of one of the rear frame main bodies RB. A rear shock absorber RS is operatively disposed between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB. The rear shock absorber RS is disposed between the front frame body FB and the rear frame body RB to control the movement of the rear frame body RB relative to the front frame body FB. That is, the rear shock absorber RS absorbs the shock transmitted from the rear wheel RW. Seat tube 18 is mounted to a seat tube of vehicle body VB in a known manner and supports a bicycle seat or seat cushion 14 in any suitable manner.

The human vehicle V has a drive train DT. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive train DT comprises a drive unit DU which provides the driving force of a motor for propulsion in addition to the human driving force. The drive unit DU is an electric auxiliary motor. Here, for example, the drive train DT is of the chain drive type. Thus, the drive train includes a chain CN. The drive train DT further includes a crank C, a front sprocket assembly FS and a rear sprocket assembly CS. The crank C includes a crank shaft CA1 and a pair of crank arms CA2. Crankshaft CA1 is rotatably supported to vehicle body VB in a known manner. Crank arm CA2 is disposed on the opposite end of crankshaft CA1. A pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of each of the crank arms CA2.

As seen in Figures 1 and 9, in the case of the human-powered vehicle V, the front sprocket assembly FS comprises a single chainring. The front sprocket assembly FS is provided on the crank C to rotate integrally with the crankshaft CA1. The rear sprocket assembly CS is arranged on one hub of the rear wheel RW. The rear sprocket assembly CS includes a plurality of rear sprockets. A human driving force is applied to the pedal PD by a rider, so that the driving force is transmitted to the rear wheel RW through the front sprocket assembly FS, the chain CN and the rear sprocket assembly CS.

Furthermore, the human-powered vehicle V has at least one operating device OD for a rider to change a transmission ratio of the drive train DT. Here, the human-powered vehicle V includes a rear derailleur RD as transmission means. Rear derailleur RD is configured to be manually operated in response to operation of operating device OD. The rear derailleur RD is configured to vary the gear ratio of the drive train DT. The rear derailleur RD is configured such that the chain CN is shifted between the sprockets of the rear sprocket assembly CS to vary the transmission ratio of the rotational speed of the rear wheels RW to the rotational speed of the crankshaft CA1. The human vehicle V may also be provided with a front derailleur as needed and/or desired. In this case, the gear ratio of the drive train DT can be changed by operating the rear derailleur RD and/or the front derailleur.

Referring now to FIG. 2 , a schematic block diagram is used to illustrate the basic components of the human vehicle control system 10 . As mentioned above, the human-vehicle control system 10 includes a seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . The seat cushion sensor assembly 12 basically includes a sensing component 21 and a sensed component 22 . The human vehicle control system 10 further includes a controller 24 . The controller 24 is configured to receive a signal from the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . Based on the signals from the seat sensor assembly 12, the controller 24 is configured to determine the condition of a rider. In particular, controller 24 is configured to receive a signal from sensing component 21 and configured to determine a rider's condition. Here, the seat cushion 14 is provided with a control unit CU that accommodates a controller 24 . The controller 24 is electrically connected to the sensing part 21 by a wire W. In the first embodiment, when the control unit CU is mounted to the seat cushion 14, the control unit CU may be mounted at another location such as the seat tube 18 or the vehicle body VB. Alternatively, the control unit CU can be disposed in the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 so that the sensed signals are processed locally, which achieves higher data transmission efficiency. Alternatively, the control unit CU can be arranged in the drive unit DU, and is preferably integrated with the electronic controller of the drive unit DU. In general, here, the control unit CU provides power to the sensing means 21 and communicates wirelessly with one or more of the human vehicle components VC.

In the first embodiment, the condition of the rider includes a posture of the rider. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the condition of the rider includes an estimate of the fatigue level of the rider. Here, the sensing part 21 of the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 detects whether a rider is sitting on the seat cushion 14 . Therefore, the rider's posture includes at least one of a sitting posture and a standing posture. In addition, the controller 24 may use the seat sensor assembly 12 and use other sensors (eg, a tilt sensor, a pitch sensor, a speed sensor, an acceleration sensor) as needed and/or desired. sensors, etc.) to estimate rider fatigue based on a rider's contact with the seat cushion 14 (eg, contact duration, a contact frequency, etc.).

The human-powered vehicle control system 10 further includes a human-powered vehicle component VC configured to receive commands from the controller 24 to perform a predetermined action based on the condition of the rider. In the human-powered vehicle V depicted in FIG. An example of a human vehicle component VC that performs a predetermined action according to the condition of the rider.

The controller 24 includes one or more processors 26 that execute predetermined control programs. The processor 26 of the controller 24 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). Here, the processor 26 is disposed on a circuit board CB1 disposed in the control unit CU. Although only one processor is shown in FIG. 2, it will be apparent from the disclosure that several processors may be used. Accordingly, controller 24 may include processors disposed at separate locations from each other. In one case where the processors are arranged at separate locations from each other, the processors are connected to communicate with each other via a wireless communication device. Controller 24 may include one or more microcomputers. Accordingly, the terms "controller" and "electronic controller" as used herein refer to hardware that executes a software program and do not include a human being.

The human vehicle control system 10 further includes a data storage device 28 electrically connected to the controller 24 . The data storage device 28 is preferably disposed in the control unit CU. Here, the data storage device 28 is disposed on the circuit board CB1 and can be regarded as a part of the controller 24 . Alternatively, the data storage device 28 may be a separate component from the controller 24 . The data storage device 28 stores control programs and information for a control program. Specifically, for example, the data storage device 28 is configured to store a reference value to determine the condition of the rider. Data storage device 28 includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer readable medium, with the sole exception of a transitory propagated signal. For example, the data storage device 28 includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. Non-volatile memory includes, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash at least one of memory. Volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

The human-vehicle control system 10 further includes a wireless communicator 30 electrically connected to the controller 24 . The term "wireless communicator" includes a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, a transmitter-receiver, and any one or more devices (separately or in combination) deliberately capable of transmitting and/or receiving wireless communication signals , including shift signals or control, command or other signals related to a function of the controlled component. The wireless communication signal may be a radio frequency (RF) signal, ultra-wideband communication signal, radio frequency identification (RFID), ANT+ communication or Bluetooth® communication or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the field of human vehicles.

Here, the wireless communicator 30 is housed in the control unit CU provided to the seat cushion 14 . The wireless communicator 30 is configured to wirelessly transmit the condition of the rider from the controller 24 . In other words, the wireless communicator 30 is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal to control at least one of the human-vehicle components VC based on the condition of the rider. In this case, wireless communicator 30 includes a transmitter. Additionally, here, wireless communicator 30 is configured to receive commands for controller 24 wirelessly. In this case, wireless communicator 30 includes a receiver. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the wireless communicator 30 is a two-way wireless communicator including a transmitter and a receiver or a transceiver. Alternatively, the controller 24 may communicate with at least one of the human vehicle components VC using a wire. For example, Power Line Communication (PLC), Controller Area Network (CAN), or Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) may be used to communicate with at least one of the human vehicle components VC. Wireless communicator 30 is electrically connected to controller 24 . Here, the wireless communicator 30 is diagrammatically shown separated from the circuit board CB1 of the controller 24 . Alternatively, the wireless communicator 30 can be disposed on the circuit board CB1 of the controller 24 .

The wireless communicator 30 can communicate directly with at least one of the human vehicle components VC, including but not limited to the rear derailleur RD, adjustable seat tube 18, rear shock RS, front fork FF, and drive unit DU. Alternatively, the wireless communicator 30 may communicate with at least one of the human vehicle components VC indirectly via another component.

As seen in FIG. 2 , the human vehicle control system 10 further includes a power supply 32 configured to supply power to the human control system 10 . Here, the power source 32 is a battery installed in the control unit CU provided to the seat cushion 14 . Alternatively, the power source 32 may be replaced or used in conjunction with a power source such as a capacitor, a fuel cell, a solar cell, or any other source of electrical power. The power supply 32 is electrically connected to the controller 24 and the wireless communicator 30 to provide power to the controller 24 and the wireless communicator 30 . Here, the power supply 32 is diagrammatically shown as being provided in the control unit CU. Alternatively, the power source 32 may be provided in the seat sensor assembly 12 in the form of a button battery to supply power to the sensing part 21 . Alternatively, the power source 32 may be a battery pack BP integrated in the front frame main body FB, which mainly supplies electric power to the motor in the drive unit DU. Alternatively, power source 32 may be a generator, such as an electric motor.

As seen in FIG. 2, the human-powered vehicle control system 10 further includes a cycle computer 34, which is used to notify a rider of at least one of the status of the rider and the status of one or more of the human-powered vehicle components VC. A notification device for one. Preferably, the cycle computer 34 is configured to communicate with the controller 24 wirelessly. Here, the bicycle computer 34 includes an electronic controller 36 , a wireless communicator 38 and a power supply 40 .

As seen in FIG. 3, electronic controller 36 includes one or more processors 36A that execute predetermined control programs. The processor 36A of the electronic controller 36 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU). Here, the processor 36A is disposed on a circuit board CB2. The electronic controller 36 further includes a data storage device 36B electrically connected to the electronic controller 36 . The data storage device 36B stores control programs and information for a control program. Data storage device 36B includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer readable medium, with the sole exception of a transitory propagated signal. For example, the data storage device 36B includes a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. Non-volatile memory includes, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and a flash at least one of memory. Volatile memory includes, for example, a random access memory (RAM).

The wireless communicator 38 is configured to wirelessly receive the condition of the rider from the wireless communicator 30 of the controller 24 . In other words, the wireless communicator 38 is configured to wirelessly receive a control signal to control at least one of the human-vehicle components VC based on the condition of the rider. In this case, wireless communicator 30 includes a receiver. Additionally, here, wireless communicator 38 is configured to wirelessly transmit commands for electronic controller 24 . In this case, wireless communicator 30 includes a transmitter. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the wireless communicator 38 is a two-way wireless communicator including a transmitter and a receiver or a transceiver. Alternatively, the electronic controller 24 may communicate with at least one of the human vehicle components VC using a wire. For example, power line communication (PLC), controller area network (CAN), or universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) may be used to communicate with at least one of controller 24 and human vehicle component VC.

The human-powered vehicle control system 10 further includes a display device (a cycle computer 34) configured to receive information from the controller 24 and configured to display the condition of the rider. For example, the condition of the rider can be displayed on a display 42 of the cycle computer 34 . Alternatively, information from controller 24 may be communicated to a rider using a speaker 44 or a tactile device such as a vibrator 46 . In a first embodiment, a display 42 , a speaker 44 and a vibrator 46 are integrated into the cycle computer 34 . Alternatively, the display 42, speaker 44 and vibrator 46 may be integrated into other devices, such as a smartphone 48, a tablet computer or a personal computer.

Referring now to FIG. 4 , a schematic block diagram is used to illustrate the basic components of the rear derailleur RD. As mentioned above, the rear derailleur RD is an example of a vehicle component VC that is controlled based on the detection results of the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . The rear derailleur RD is an electric rear derailleur controlled manually by the operating device OD or automatically by a control signal generated by the control unit CU.

Since rear derailleurs such as rear derailleur RD are well known, only rear derailleur RD will be briefly described herein. The rear derailleur RD includes an electronic controller 50 , a wireless communicator 52 , a power source 54 and an actuator 56 . Electronic controller 50 is configured to control actuator 56 in response to shift commands received from operating device OD. Electronic controller 50 includes at least one processor 50A. The at least one processor 50A can be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). Processor 50A includes, for example, an arithmetic processing unit. Here, the electronic controller 50 includes a data storage device 50B. The data storage device 50B stores various control programs and information used in various control programs. Here, the data storage device 50B includes a total number of teeth of the front sprocket assembly FS and a total number of teeth of each gear of the rear sprocket assembly CS. Data storage device 50B includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer readable medium, with the sole exception of a transitory propagated signal.

Wireless communicator 52 is preferably a wireless transceiver, which is an example of a two-way wireless communicator. The wireless communicator 52 is configured to receive shift commands from the operating device OD. The shift command is a wireless communication signal. The wireless communicator 52 is configured to transmit wireless communication signals containing gear shift information to the cycle computer 34 and/or the smartphone 48 . The wireless communication signal may be a radio frequency (RF) signal, ultra-wideband communication signal, radio frequency identification (RFID), ANT+ communication or Bluetooth® communication or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the field of human transportation. Accordingly, wireless communicator 52 constitutes one example of a communication device. Alternatively, the rear derailleur RD can be configured to communicate with the operating device OD and the cycle computer 34 by a dedicated signal line or by one using power line communication (PLC).

Here, the power source 54 is a removable battery pack provided on a base member of the rear derailleur RD. Preferably, the power source 54 is a rechargeable battery pack that can be removed for charging and then reattached to the base member of the rear derailleur RD. Alternatively, power source 54 may be replaced or used in conjunction with a power source such as a capacitor, a fuel cell, a solar cell, or any other source of electrical power. A power supply 54 is electrically connected to the electronic controller 50 to provide power to the electronic controller 50 .

Here, actuator 56 comprises a reversible electric motor 56A disposed on a base member of rear derailleur RD. The actuator 56 also includes a motor driver 56B and an encoder 56C. An electric motor 56A is operatively coupled to a linkage set of the rear derailleur RD to move a pulley assembly of the rear derailleur RD between a plurality of sprocket positions.

Referring now to FIG. 5 , a schematic block diagram is used to illustrate the basic components of the operating device OD. The operating device OD is configured to shift the rear derailleur RD to change one of the transmission ratios of the drive train DT. Thus, the operating device OD provides manual shifting of the rear derailleur RD. Here, the operating device OD is configured to communicate wirelessly with the rear derailleur RD. Alternatively, the operating device OD may be configured to communicate with the rear derailleur RD by a dedicated signal line or by one using power line communication (PLC).

Basically, the operating device OD is configured to be mounted to an electric shifter of the handlebar H by a handlebar clamp in a known manner. The operating device OD includes an electronic controller 60 , a first operating member 61 and a second operating member 62 .

The electronic controller 60 includes at least one processor 60A and a data storage device 60B. The at least one processor 60A can be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU). Processor 60A includes, for example, an arithmetic processing unit. The data storage device 60B stores various control programs and information used in various control programs. Data storage device 60B includes any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer readable medium, with the sole exception of a transitory propagated signal.

A first electric switch is pressed in response to a rider's operation of the first operating member 61 . A second electric switch is pressed in response to a rider's operation of the second operating member 62 . The electronic controller 60 receives an electric signal from the first electric switch in response to the operation of the first operating member 61 , and receives an electric signal from the second electric switch in response to the operation of the second operating member 62 . The rider selectively operates the first operating member 61 and the second operating member 62 to output a shift command or signal to the rear derailleur RD. The shift command or signal includes an upshift command or signal and/or a downshift command or signal.

Here, the operating device OD includes a wireless communicator 64 . Here, the wireless communicator 64 is preferably a wireless transmitter such that the wireless communicator 64 transmits shift commands to the rear derailleur RD and any other components as needed and/or desired. The wireless transmitter is an example of a one-way wireless communication device that can transmit shift commands as wireless communication signals. The wireless communication signal may be a radio frequency (RF) signal, ultra-wideband communication signal, radio frequency identification (RFID), ANT+ communication or Bluetooth® communication or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the field of human transportation.

Here, the operating device OD further includes a power supply 66 . Here, the power source 66 is a battery pack. Preferably, the power source 66 is a replaceable button battery pack or a rechargeable battery pack. Alternatively, power source 66 may be replaced or used in conjunction with a power source such as a capacitor, a fuel cell, a solar cell, or any other source of electrical power. A power supply 66 is electrically connected to the electronic controller 60 to provide power to the electronic controller 60 .

Referring now to FIGS. 6-12 , the seat cushion assembly 16 of the human vehicle control system 10 will now be discussed in greater detail. As mentioned above, the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 is integrated with the seat cushion 14 to form the seat cushion assembly 16 mounted to the seat tube 18 . The sensing part 21 is configured to be disposed at a first position provided to one of the seat cushion 14 and the seat tube 18 . The sensed part 22 is configured to be arranged at a second position provided to one of the seat cushion 14 and the seat tube 18 such that the sensed part 22 is spaced from the sensing part 21 . Here, in the first embodiment, the sensing member 21 and the sensed member 22 are provided to the seat cushion 14 .

The seat cushion 14 basically includes a seat portion 14A and a pair of seat cushion rails 14B. Seat rail 14B is secured to seat portion 14A and is configured to be coupled to seat tube 18 . Specifically, the seat tube 18 has a seat clamp 68 having a first clamping member 68A, a second clamping member 68B, and a pair of clamping bolts 68C. Seat rail 14B is clamped between first clamping member 68A and second clamping member 68B, and is secured to seat tube 18 by clamping bolt 68C. Here, the sensing part 21 is configured to be provided to the cushion rail 14B of the seat cushion 14 . On the other hand, the sensed member 22 is configured to be provided to the seat portion 14A of the seat cushion 14 .

In the first embodiment, the sensing part 21 includes a non-contact sensor 21a. Specifically, the non-contact sensor 21 a senses the intensity of the magnetic field of the sensed part 22 . For example, the sensed part 22 includes a magnet 22a that generates a magnetic field. When a rider sits on the seat 14A, the seat 14A moves closer to the non-contact sensor 21a, and the strength of the magnetic field of the sensed part 22 detected by the non-contact sensor 21a increases.

Preferably, the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 further includes an adjuster component 70 . The adjuster part 70 is disposed on one of the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 to adjust a distance between the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 . The seat cushion sensor assembly 12 further includes a sensor base supporting the sensing component 21 or the sensed component 22 . Here, the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 further includes a sensor base 72 configured to be mounted to the seat cushion 14 or the seat tube 18 . In the first embodiment, the sensor base 72 is attached to the cushion rail 14B. Here, the adjuster part 70 includes an adjustment screw 74 configured to adjust the distance between the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 . The adjustment screw 74 is adjustably disposed between the sensor base 72 and one of the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 . Also, in the first embodiment, the adjuster part 70 is provided to the sensing part 21 . Therefore, in the first embodiment, the adjustment screw 74 is adjustably disposed between the sensor base 72 and the sensing component 21 . In this way, the distance between the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 can be adjusted by turning the adjusting screw 74 . Here, the adjustment screw 74 is rotatably held to the sensor base 72 by a holding member 76 . Furthermore, here, the sensor base 72 has a support member 78 with a threaded hole 78a. The supporting member 78 is fixed to the sensing member 21, and the adjusting screw 74 is screw-engaged in the threaded hole 78a.

The sensed component 22 is provided to the seat 14A by a sensor base 80 . In the first embodiment, the sensed component 22 is non-adjustably coupled to the seat 14A. Alternatively, sensed component 22 is adjustably coupled to seat 14A. In other words, both the sensing component 21 and the sensed component 22 can be configured adjustably as needed and/or desired.

Referring now to Figures 13 to 18, the seat cushion assembly 16 has been modified according to a second embodiment. In view of the similarity between the first and second embodiments, parts of the second embodiment that are identical to parts of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the first embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the second embodiment that are the same as those of the first embodiment may be omitted for the sake of brevity.

In the second embodiment of FIGS. 13-18 , the sensing member 21 is non-adjustably mounted to the sensor base 72 (which is mounted to the seat rail 14B), and the sensed member 22 is adjustably mounted to Seat 14A. Thus, here, the regulator component 70 is provided to the sensed component 22 . Similar to the first embodiment, the adjuster part 70 includes an adjustment screw 74 configured to adjust the distance between the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 . However, in the second embodiment, the adjustment screw 74 is attached to the sensed part 22 and the adjustment screw 74 is configured to thread into a hole 80 a in the seat cushion 14 . More specifically, hole 80a is formed in sensor base 80 fixed to seat portion 14A. Adjustment screw 74 is accessed through an opening in seat portion 14A. In this way, the adjusting screw 74 can be turned to adjust the distance between the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 .

Referring now to FIG. 19, the seat cushion assembly 16 has been modified according to a third embodiment. In view of the similarity between the third embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the third embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the third embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

The seat cushion assembly 16 of the third embodiment of FIG. 19 is basically the same as the seat cushion assembly 16 of the first embodiment, but the sensing member 21 is non-adjustably mounted to the sensor base 80 of the seat portion 14A, and The sensed component 22 is except for the sensor base 72 which is adjustably mounted to the cushion rail 14B. Therefore, in this embodiment, the sensing part 21 is configured to be provided to the seat portion 14A of the seat cushion 14 .

Referring now to FIG. 20, the seat cushion assembly 16 has been modified according to a fourth embodiment. In view of the similarity between the fourth embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the fourth embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the fourth embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

The seat cushion assembly 16 of the fourth embodiment of FIG. 20 is basically the same as the seat cushion assembly 16 of the second embodiment, but the sensing part 21 is adjustably mounted to the sensor base 80 of the seat portion 14A, and The sensed component 22 is except for the sensor base 72 which is non-adjustably mounted to the cushion rail 14B. Therefore, referring to FIG. 16 of the second embodiment and FIG. 20 of the fourth embodiment, the adjusting screw 74 is attached to one of the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22, and the adjusting screw 74 is configured to be screwed to In the hole 80a in the seat cushion 14.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the seat cushion assembly 16 has been modified according to a fifth embodiment. In view of the similarity between the fifth embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the fifth embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the fifth embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

In the fifth embodiment of FIG. 21 , the sensing component 21 has been replaced by a sensing component 21 ′, and the sensed component 22 has been replaced by a sensed component 22 ′. Here, the sensing part 21' includes a touch sensor 21a'. Furthermore, the sensed component 22 includes an adjacent portion 22a'. Here, the posture of the rider is detected based on whether the abutting portion 22a' contacts or does not contact the touch sensor 21a'. Furthermore, the touch sensor 21a' can be configured to detect a deflection of the seat portion 14A relative to the seat rail 14B. Although the adjuster 70 is provided between the sensing part 21' and the sensor base 72 provided to the seat cushion rail 14B, it will be understood from the present invention that the adjuster 70 may be provided between the sensed part 22' and the sensor base 72 provided to the seat rail 14B. Between the sensor base 80 of the seat portion 14A.

Referring now to FIG. 22, the seat cushion assembly 16 has been modified according to a sixth embodiment. In view of the similarity between the sixth embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the sixth embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the sixth embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

The seat cushion assembly 16 of the sixth embodiment of Figure 22 is basically the same as the seat cushion assembly 16 of the fifth embodiment, except that the sensing part 21' is non-adjustably mounted to the sensor base 72, and is sensed Component 22' is adjustably mounted to sensor base 80 except. Therefore, the sensing part 21' includes a touch sensor 21a', and the sensed part 22 includes an abutment 22a' that can be adjusted toward or away from the touch sensor 21a'.

Referring now to FIG. 23, the seat cushion assembly 16 and the seat tube 18 have been modified according to a seventh embodiment. In view of the similarity between the seventh embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the seventh embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the seventh embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

In the seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 23 , the seat tube assembly 82 includes the seat tube 18 and the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . In this modification, at least a portion of the cushion sensor assembly 12 is attached to the seat tube 18 . In other words, one of the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 of the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 is attached to the seat tube 18 . The sensor base 72 supports the sensing component 21 or the sensed component 22 , and the sensor base 72 is integrated with the seat cushion clamp 68 . More specifically, one of the sensing part 21 and the sensed part 22 is provided to the seat clamp 68 of the seat tube 18 . Here, the sensing member 21 is attached to the seat clamp 68 of the seat tube 18 . In this modification, the sensing part 21 is provided to the sensor base 72 , and the sensor base 72 is integrated with the seat cushion clamp 68 . On the other hand, the sensed part 22 is adjustably attached to the seat cushion 14 . Also, in this modification, the sensing part 21 includes a non-contact sensor 21a, and the sensed part 22 includes a magnet 22a.

Referring now to FIG. 24, the seat cushion assembly 16 has been modified according to an eighth embodiment. In view of the similarities between the eighth embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the eighth embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiments will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiments. In addition, the description of the parts of the eighth embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

In the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 24 , the seat tube assembly 84 includes the seat tube 18 and the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . In this modification, the sensing member 21 is adjustably attached to the seat cushion 14 . On the other hand, the sensed part 22 is attached to the clamp 68 of the seat tube 18 . In this modification, the sensed member 22 is provided to the sensor base 72 , and the sensor base 72 is integrated with the seat cushion clamp 68 . Also, in this modification, the sensing part 21 includes a non-contact sensor 21a, and the sensed part 22 includes a magnet 22a.

Referring now to FIG. 25, the seat cushion assembly 16 and the seat tube 18 have been modified according to a ninth embodiment. In view of the similarity between the ninth embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the ninth embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiment will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiment. In addition, the description of the parts of the ninth embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

In the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 25 , the seat tube assembly 86 includes the seat tube 18 and the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . In this modification, the sensing member 21 ′ is attached to the seat clamp 68 of the seat tube 18 . In this modification, the sensing part 21 ′ is provided to the sensor base 72 , and the sensor base 72 is integrated with the seat cushion clamp 68 . On the other hand, the sensed part 22 ′ is adjustably attached to the seat cushion 14 . Also, in this modification, the sensing part 21' includes a touch sensor 21a', and the sensed part 22' includes an abutment portion 22a'. Although the adjuster 70 is provided between the sensed part 22' and the sensor base 80 provided to the seat cushion 14, it will be understood from the present invention that the adjuster 70 is provided between the sensing part 21' and may be provided to the seat. Between the sensor base 72 of the pad fixture 68 .

Referring now to FIG. 26, the seat cushion assembly 16 and the seat tube 18 have been modified according to a tenth embodiment. In view of the similarity between the tenth embodiment and the previous embodiments, parts of the tenth embodiment that are identical to parts of the previous embodiments will be given the same reference numerals as parts of the previous embodiments. In addition, the description of the parts of the tenth embodiment that are the same as those of the previous embodiments has been omitted for the sake of brevity.

In the tenth embodiment shown in FIG. 26 , the seat tube assembly 86 includes the seat tube 18 and the seat cushion sensor assembly 12 . In this modification, the sensing part 21 ′ is adjustably attached to the seat cushion 14 . On the other hand, the sensed part 22 is attached to the clamp 68 of the seat tube 18 . In this modification, the sensed member 22 is provided to the sensor base 72 , and the sensor base 72 is integrated with the seat cushion clamp 68 . Also, in this modification, the sensing part 21' includes a touch sensor 21a', and the sensed part 22' includes an abutment portion 22a'. Although the adjuster 70 is provided between the sensing part 21' and the sensor base 80 provided to the seat cushion 14, it will be understood from the present invention that the adjuster 70 may be provided between the sensed part 22' and the seat 80. Between the sensor base 72 of the pad fixture 68 .

When understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open-ended terms specifying the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps, However, the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps is not excluded. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising", "having" and their derivatives. Furthermore, the terms "part", "section", "portion", "member" or "element" when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or plural parts, unless otherwise stated.

As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "upward", "downward ”, “above”, “below”, “up”, “down”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “vertical” and “landscape” and any Other similar directional terms refer to the orientation of a human-powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with a seat cushion sensor assembly. Accordingly, such directional terms as used to describe * should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (eg, a bicycle) equipped with a seat sensor assembly in an upright riding position on a horizontal plane. The terms "left" and "right" are used to refer to "right" when referred to from the right side when viewed from behind a human-powered vehicle (eg, bicycle), and from the left side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (eg, bicycle) "Left" is indicated for reference.

The phrase "at least one of" as used in the present invention means "one or more" of a desired option. For an example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in this disclosure means "only a single option" or "both of the two options" when the number of its options is two. For another example, the phrase "at least one of" as used in the present invention means "only one single option" or "equal to or more than two options" when the number of its options is equal to or greater than 3 any combination". Furthermore, the term "and/or" as used in the present invention means "either or both".

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

As used herein, the term "attached" or "attached" encompasses: a configuration in which an element is directly fixed to another element by directly attaching an element to another element; Configurations in which an element is indirectly fixed to another element to intermediate member(s) which in turn are attached to another element; and one element is integral with another element (i.e. one element is essentially another element part of the configuration). This definition also applies to words of similar import, such as "link", "connect", "couple", "mount", "join", "fix" and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that implementations may be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Various changes and modifications. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and/or desired so long as the change does not materially affect their intended function, unless expressly stated otherwise. Unless expressly stated otherwise, components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other may have intermediate structures disposed therebetween as long as the modification does not materially affect their intended function. The functions of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa, unless expressly 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 which differs from the prior art (alone or in combination with other features) shall also be regarded by the applicant as a separate description of further inventions, including structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Accordingly, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to 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 equivalents.

10:Manpower vehicle control system/bicycle component control system/manpower control system 12: Seat sensor assembly 14: seat cushion 14A: Seat 14B: Seat cushion rail 16: Seat cushion assembly 18: Seat tube 21: Sensing components 21': Sensing component 21a: Non-contact sensor 21a': touch sensor 22: Sensed part 22': Sensed part 22a: magnet 22a': adjacent part 24: Controller 26: Processor 28: Data storage device 30: Wireless communicator 32: power supply 34: Bike Computer 36: Electronic controller 36A: Processor 36B: data storage device 38: Wireless communicator 40: Power 42: display 44:Speaker 46: vibrator 48:Smart phone 50: Electronic controller 50A: Processor 50B: data storage device 52: Wireless communicator 54: power supply 56: Actuator 56A: Electric motor 56B: Motor driver 56C: Encoder 60: Electronic controller 60A: Processor 60B: data storage device 61: the first operating member 62: the second operating member 64: Wireless communicator 66: power supply 68: Seat Cushion Clamp 68A: first clamping member 68B: Second clamping member 68C: clamping bolt 70:Adjuster parts/Adjuster 72: Sensor base 74:Adjustment screw 76: Holding member 78: Support parts 78a: threaded hole 80: Sensor base 80a: hole BP: battery pack C: Crank CA1: crankshaft CA2: crank arm CB1: circuit board CN:Chain CS: rear sprocket assembly CU: control unit DU: drive unit DT: drive train FB: Front frame body FF: front suspension fork FS: Front sprocket assembly FW: front wheel H: handlebar OD: operating device PD: pedal RB: Rear frame body RD: rear derailleur RS: rear shock absorber RW: rear wheel V: human transportation VB: car body VC: Human Vehicle Components W: wire

Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof:

1 is a side view of a human vehicle (eg, a bicycle) equipped with a human vehicle control system having a seat cushion assembly including a seat cushion sensor assembly according to a first embodiment Elevation.

2 is a schematic block diagram of one of the basic components of a human vehicle control system having a seat cushion assembly including a seat cushion sensor assembly.

Fig. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a notification device of a human vehicle control system.

Fig. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a transmission device of a human vehicle control system.

Fig. 5 is a schematic block diagram of one of the operating devices of the human vehicle control system.

6 is a side perspective view of a seat cushion assembly including the seat cushion sensor assembly depicted in FIG. 1 , wherein the seat cushion assembly is coupled to a seat tube.

7 is a rear perspective view of the seat cushion assembly depicted in FIG. 6, wherein the seat cushion assembly is coupled to the seat tube.

Figure 8 is a rear isometric view of the seat cushion assembly shown in Figures 6 and 7.

Fig. 9 is a bottom plan view of the seat cushion assembly shown in Figs. 6-8.

10 is a cross-sectional view of the seat cushion assembly of FIGS. 6-9 as seen along section line 10-10 of FIG. 9. FIG.

11 is a cross-sectional view of the seat cushion assembly depicted in FIGS. 6-9 as seen along section line 11 - 11 of FIG. 10 .

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the seat cushion assembly shown in Figs. 6-9, similar to Fig. 11, but with the sensing member adjusted toward the sensed part.

13 is a rear perspective view of a seat cushion assembly including a seat cushion sensor assembly coupled to a seat tube according to a second embodiment.

Figure 14 is a rear isometric view of the seat cushion assembly shown in Figure 13.

Figure 15 is a bottom plan view of the seat cushion assembly shown in Figures 13 and 14.

16 is a cross-sectional view of the seat cushion assembly of FIGS. 13 and 14 as seen along section line 16-16 of FIG. 15 .

17 is a cross-sectional view of the seat cushion assembly shown in FIGS. 13-16 as seen along section line 17-17 of FIG. 16. FIG.

Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the seat cushion assembly shown in Figures 13-17, similar to Figure 17, but with the sensed component adjusted away from the sensing component.

19 is a cross-sectional view of a seat cushion assembly according to a third embodiment, similar to FIG. 17 .

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a seat cushion assembly according to a fourth embodiment, similar to FIG. 17 .

21 is a rear isometric view of a seat cushion assembly including a seat cushion sensor assembly coupled to a seat tube according to a fifth embodiment.

22 is a rear isometric view of a seat cushion assembly including a cushion sensor assembly coupled to a seat tube according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a seat cushion assembly according to a seventh embodiment, similar to FIG. 17 .

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a seat cushion assembly according to an eighth embodiment, similar to FIG. 17 .

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a seat cushion assembly according to a ninth embodiment, similar to FIG. 17 .

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a seat cushion assembly according to a tenth embodiment, similar to FIG. 17 .

12: Seat sensor assembly

14: seat cushion

14A: Seat

16: Seat cushion assembly

21: Sensing components

22: Sensed part

70:Adjuster parts/Adjuster

72: Sensor base

76: Holding member

78: Support parts

80: Sensor base

CU: control unit

Claims (18)

A seat cushion sensor assembly (12), comprising: a sensing member (21; 21') configured to be disposed at a first position provided to one of the seat pad (14) and the seat tube (18); a sensed component (22; 22') configured to be disposed at a second position provided to one of the seat cushion (14) and the seat tube (18) such that the sensed component (22; 22') spaced from the sensing means (21; 21'); and An adjuster part (70), which is arranged to one of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22'), to adjust the sensing part (21; 21') and A distance between the sensed components (22; 22'). As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of claim 1, wherein The regulator part (70) is arranged to one of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22'). The seat cushion sensor assembly (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein The adjuster part (70) includes an adjustment screw (74) configured to adjust the distance between the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22'). As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of claim 3, it further includes a sensor base (72) configured to mount to the seat cushion (14) or the seat tube (18), and The adjustment screw (74) is adjustably disposed between the sensor base (72) and one of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22') . As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of claim 4, wherein The adjustment screw (74) is rotatably held to the sensor base (72) by a holding member (76). As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of claim 3, wherein The adjusting screw (74) is attached to one of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22'), and the adjusting screw (74) is configured to be screwed to the In a hole (80a) in the seat cushion (14). The seat cushion sensor assembly (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein One of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22') is configured to be arranged to a seat portion (14A) of the seat cushion (14). The seat cushion sensor assembly (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein The sensing unit (21; 21') includes one of a non-contact sensor (21a) and a contact sensor (21a'). A seat cushion sensor assembly (12), comprising: a sensing member (21; 21') configured to be arranged at a first position provided to one of the seat pad (14) and the seat tube (18); and a sensed component (22; 22') configured to be disposed at a second position provided to one of the seat cushion (14) and the seat tube (18) such that the sensed component (22; 22') spaced from the sensing means (21; 21'); and One of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22') is set to a seat cushion clamp (68) of the seat tube (18). As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of claim 9, it further includes a sensor base (72) supporting the sensing part (21; 21') or the sensed part (22; 22'), and The sensor base (72) is integral with the seat cushion clamp (68). A human vehicle control system comprising: The seat cushion sensor assembly (12) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, and A controller (24) configured to receive a signal from the sensing means (21; 21') and configured to determine a rider's condition. Such as the human vehicle control system of claim 11, wherein The condition of the rider includes a posture of the rider. Preferably, the posture of the rider includes at least one of a sitting posture and a standing posture. The human vehicle control system according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein The rider's condition includes an estimate of a rider's fatigue level. The human vehicle control system according to any one of claims 11 to 12, which further includes A data storage device (60B) electrically connected to the controller (24) and configured to store a reference value for determining the condition of the rider. The human vehicle control system according to any one of claims 11 to 12, which further includes a wireless communicator (64) electrically connected to the controller (24) and configured to wirelessly transmit the condition of the rider from the controller (24), preferably the wireless communicator (64 ) configured to wirelessly receive commands for the controller (24). The human-powered vehicle control system according to any one of claims 11 to 12, which further includes one or more of the following: a) a display device configured to receive information from the controller (24) and configured to display the condition of the rider; b) a power source configured to supply power to the human control system; and c) A human-powered vehicle component configured to receive commands from the controller (24) to perform a predetermined action based on the condition of the rider. A seat cushion assembly comprising: seat cushion (14); and As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of any one of claims 1 to 10, The seat cushion sensor assembly (12) is attached to the seat cushion (14). A seat tube (18) assembly comprising: seat tube (18); and As the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) of any one of claims 1 to 10, One of the sensing part (21; 21') and the sensed part (22; 22') of the seat cushion sensor assembly (12) is attached to the seat tube (18).