TW202337718A - Controllable cycle suspension - Google Patents

Abstract

A suspension component for a bicycle is provided. The suspension component includes a first tube having a first end and a second tube having a second end, the first tube and the second tube configured in a telescopic arrangement having the first end as a first distal end of the telescopic arrangement and the second end forming a second distal end of the telescopic arrangement, the telescopic arrangement having an interior space bounded by inner walls of the first tube and the second tube. The suspension component also includes a fluid damper disposed in the interior space, the fluid damper having a plurality of operational states configured to dampen or resist movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. Characteristics of the suspension component are controllable and/or the suspension component is configured to operate in different states.

Description

Controllable bike suspension technology

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/564,740, filed on September 28, 2017.

This application generally relates to suspension systems for bicycles, and more particularly to a controllable suspension system for bicycles.

It is common for bicycles to have suspension components. Suspension components have been used in a variety of applications, such as to cushion shock, vibration, or other disturbances encountered while the bicycle is in use. A common application of suspension components on bicycles is to cushion the rider from shock or vibration when the vehicle rides over bumps, potholes, rocks, potholes and/or other obstacles. These suspension components include rear and/or front wheel suspension components. Suspension components may also be used elsewhere, such as seat posts or handlebars to protect the rider from impact.

For a front wheel, a front fork may include suspension elements such as springs and dampers. The suspension elements have values and characteristics relevant to use in a suspension system. For example, a spring element such as a coil spring, elastomeric spring, air spring, and/or other spring element can have a spring force value that is constant or varies along a curve established based on input force or displacement values. It is often necessary to use damping elements or systems to control these spring elements. Damping elements in suspension systems can also include a variety of characteristic values. For example, damping speeds such as rebound and compression speeds can be established based on the physical characteristics of the specific damper and/or suspension system.

The amount of damping required depends on a variety of variables, such as the speed of the bike, the terrain the bike is riding on, the structure of the bike, wheel width and the rider's weight and specific preferences. There is a need to provide adjustable damping characteristics for all types of bikes, rides and terrains to achieve the widest possible range of damping performance. Therefore, the damping system has a mechanism for adjusting the damping speed. These mechanisms are configured to adjust the damping system via cables, hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, and/or other actuation technologies. In the past, these technologies required complicated cables, hoses and/or wires to connect. Furthermore, these mechanisms are integrated with the sealing pressure and/or fluid chambers or are not properly constructed, making them difficult to service and maintain. In addition, many of these organizations suffer from slow response times when system requirements and/or begin to change.

In one embodiment, a suspension assembly for a bicycle is provided. The suspension component includes a first tube with a first end and a second tube with a second end. The first tube and the second tube are assembled into a sleeve telescopic configuration. The sleeve telescopic configuration having the first end serving as a first distal end of the sleeve telescopic arrangement and the second end forming a second distal end of the sleeve telescopic arrangement, the sleeve telescopic arrangement having the first tube and The inner wall of the second tube defines an inner space. The suspension assembly also includes a fluid damper disposed in the interior space, the fluid damper having a plurality of operating states configured to damp or prevent movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The fluid damper includes: an inner fluid portion exposed to damping fluid; an inner stem portion isolated from the damping fluid; and an actuating member disposed between the inner fluid portion and the inner stem portion , the actuating member is configured such that movement of the actuating member produces a change in the state of the damper.

The disclosed damping system solves or improves the above and/or other problems and shortcomings of existing and conventional damping systems. The disclosed suspension components include a plurality of suspension states that can be remotely actuated and/or changed. In addition, many external parts of the suspension assembly used to actuate and/or change the suspension state, such as a power supply and other parts can be placed in specific locations of the suspension assembly to protect these parts. Do not come into contact with external hazards such as branches, rocks, etc. that the suspension components may come into contact with during active riding.

Please refer to the drawings below. Figure 1 shows an example of a human-powered vehicle that can implement the disclosed controllable bicycle suspension technology. In this example, the vehicle is a possible bicycle 50, such as a mountain bike. The bicycle 50 has a frame 52, handlebars 54 near the front end of the frame, and a seat or saddle 56 for supporting a rider on top of the frame. The bicycle 50 also has a first or front wheel 58 which is carried by a first or front suspension element such as a front fork 60 of the frame 52 and supports the front end of the frame, i.e. according to the present invention The fork 60 composed of revealed teachings. The bicycle 50 also has a second or rear wheel 62 that supports a rear end of the frame 52 . The rear end of the frame 52 may be supported by a second or rear suspension element 61 such as a rear shock absorber. The bicycle 50 also has a transmission system 64 having a crank assembly 66 operatively coupled via a chain 68 to a rear sprocket set 70 proximate the hub that provides one of the rear wheels 62 axis of rotation. The crank assembly 66 includes at least one and usually two crank arms 75 and pedals 76, and at least one front sprocket or chain ring. A rear gear shift device 36 such as a transmission is provided on the rear wheel 62 to move the chain 68 through different sprockets of the sprocket set 70 . In one embodiment, a front gear shifter may be provided to move the chain 68 through the sprockets of the crank assembly. In the example shown, the saddle 56 is supported on a seat post assembly 80 .

In Figure 1, arrow A shows one of the normal riding or forward moving directions of the bicycle 50.

The bicycle 50 may also include a control device 63 that may be used to control one or more components of the bicycle, such as the front fork 60 and/or the rear suspension element 61 . The bicycle 50 may also include a crank assembly motion sensing device 65 configured to determine the motion of the crank assembly 66 or other components of the transmission system. In some examples, the control device 63, the front fork 60, the rear suspension element 61 and/or the crank assembly motion sensing device 65 and other sensors can transmit and/or share control commands, status indications, etc. and other information regarding the functions and/or actions of the bicycle 50. The front fork 60 includes a suspension element or front fork control device 67 configured to communicate with the control device 63 and/or other components such as the crank assembly motion sensing device 65 . The rear suspension element 61 may also include a suspension element control device.

Although the bicycle 50 shown in FIG. 1 is a mountaineering bicycle, the front fork 60 may be implemented on other types of bicycles, including the specific embodiments and examples disclosed herein and other embodiments and examples. For example, the disclosed front fork 60 may be used on road bicycles and bicycles with mechanical (eg, cable, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) and non-mechanical (eg, wired, wireless) drive systems. The disclosed front fork 60 can also be implemented on other types of two-, three- and four-wheel human-powered vehicles.

Referring now to Figure 2, the front suspension element or front fork 60 of Figure 1 is shown in a perspective view separated from the rest of the bicycle. Figures 3 to 5 show various other views of the front fork 60. The front fork 60 includes a steerer tube 102 configured for attachment to a handlebar and the bicycle frame. The front fork 60 also includes at least one leg configured to be rotatably attached to a front wheel. In the illustrated embodiment, the front fork 60 includes a first leg 104 and a second leg 106 . The at least one leg includes a suspension system. The suspension system may include a damping system or damper and a spring system. These two systems work together to form the suspension system. In the illustrated embodiment, the first leg 104 includes the damper and the second leg 106 includes the spring system. The first leg 104 and/or the second leg 106 are allowed to move along an axis 501 in a longitudinal direction of contraction and/or expansion. The first leg 104 and/or the second leg 106 may be constructed from sleeved telescopic rods or tubes called stanchions. The first leg 104 and/or the second leg 106 may include an upper tube 503 or strut and a lower tube 506 or strut. In one embodiment, the first leg 104 and the lower tube 106 are both formed from a one-piece down tube construction, and the one-piece down tube construction includes a structure configured to be attached to the two down tubes. One bridge department.

The front fork 60 may also include one or more wheel attachment features 108, such as holes or fork tips configured for hub attachment. The front fork 60 may also include a plurality of brake attachment features 110 configured for attachment to a wheel braking device such as a disc brake caliper. For example, the brake attachment features may include raised protrusions and holes for secure attachment to the clamps. In one embodiment as shown, the wheel attachment features 108 and the brake features 108 are included on a front fork assembly connected to the legs. For example, the fork assembly may be a one-piece down tube construction or fork lower portion 111 . The fork lower portion may include wheel attachment features 108 and/or brake features 110 . The one-piece downtube construction may be formed from a single material such as aluminum or other materials. In one embodiment, the one-piece down tube structure is formed through an aluminum casting process. Further cutting or forming procedures may be used to form specific features, shapes, and/or surfaces of the one-piece down tube structure 111 .

The front fork may also include a member, such as a crown 112, that forms the top of one or both legs. The crown may be formed from a single member bridging or forming the top of the first leg 104 and the second leg 106 . In one embodiment, the crown is formed from a single material such as aluminum or other material. In one embodiment, the crown is formed through an aluminum casting process. Further cutting or shaping procedures may be used to form specific features, shapes and/or surfaces of the crown.

The front fork 60 also includes suspension element control means 67 . In one embodiment, the suspension element control device may be attached to or at least partially integrated with the crown 112 . The suspension element control device 67 is configured to change, modify or change a state of the suspension system. In the embodiment shown the suspension element control means is configured to change an operating state, or one or more operating characteristics, of the damper. The suspension element control device 67 includes a power source 84, such as one of the removable batteries shown in Figure 2, configured to provide power to the front fork's control circuitry and/or other electrical devices, such as those further described below. An electric motor or other electric device. In one embodiment, the suspended component control device 67 may include one or more printed circuit boards ("PCBs") that include embedded circuitry and/or other devices for controlling the suspended component. For example, as shown in Figure 23, the suspension element control device 67 may include a plurality of PCBs 413A, 413B, 413C, 413D disposed within a housing of the device.

The suspension component control device 67 may include an external mounting component, such as a power connector 202 . The power connector 202 shown separately in Figures 6A and 6B includes the power source 84. The power connector may be attached to one of the legs or crown of a fork suspension assembly. Accordingly, the power connector 202 may include a plurality of leg attachment features 204 . The leg attachment features 204 are configured for attachment to a leg or crown of the fork 60 . In the illustrated embodiment the power supply 84 is a removable power supply and is retained on a housing 87 of the power connector 202 by an attachment mechanism or latch 85 and hook 86 interface. In this embodiment, the power supply 84 is removed by rotating the latch 85 and pivoting the power supply 84 away from the hook attachment 86 .

The power connector 202 may also include a user interface 220 for the suspension component control device. For example, the power connector 202 may include, for example, one or a plurality of manually operated buttons 222A, 222B configured to cause the suspension control device to change a characteristic of the suspension control device when actuated or depressed. A suspension element can be adjusted through a number of damping settings ranging from a fully locked state that prevents movement of the suspension element to a low damping state that provides a low degree of resistance to suspension movement. In this example, the one or more buttons may include two buttons 222A, 222B that enable the suspension element control device 67 to adjust between multiple damping states of the suspension element. Each button allows for an adjustment to one of more or less damping, respectively, as further described herein. For example, a first button 222A can be adjusted to the next lower damping state and a second button can be adjusted to the next higher damping state.

The leg attachment features 204 include a plurality of electrical communication connectors 205 for transmitting power and/or command signals to other electrical components of the suspension element control device, such as motor controllers, sensors and/or other electrical components. The leg attachment features 204 may also include a connection portion 206 configured to connect with a mating attachment portion of the crown 112 to provide a connection between the power connector 202 and the crown 112 A secure, aligned, stable and/or sealing fit. The leg attachment features 204 may also include a securing mechanism configured to secure the power connector 202 to the suspension element or particularly the crown 112 . For example, the communication connectors 205 may be formed with threads configured to mate with corresponding threads in the crown attachment portion or other portions of the suspension element. Other attachment techniques may also be used.

Figure 20 shows another embodiment of a front fork 60A including a suspension element control device 67A. In this embodiment, the power supply is attached or mounted at a different orientation relative to the crown 112 . As shown, a power connector 202A may be configured to orient a power source in a downward and/or vertical shielding orientation relative to the power connector interface 99A. This orientation may provide protection from vertical or approaching hazards and/or further avoid ambient fluids entering the fork system.

In this embodiment the power connector 202A is configured such that the power supply is mounted as a power supply behind the crown 112 and a power supply is mounted on the power connector interface 99A and oriented along a vertical power supply attachment axis 500A. In one embodiment, the power supply attachment axis 500A is parallel to a moving axis 501 of the first leg 104 . The power connector interface can also have other configurations and orientations.

An isolated view of the power connector 202A of the front fork 60A of FIG. 20 is shown in FIGS. 21-22 , and a cross-sectional view of the power connector 202A shown in FIG. 22 is shown in FIG. 23 . The power connector 202A includes a user interface 220A with a plurality of buttons 222C, 222D and LEDs 505A, 505B, and a housing 419 for the electrical components of the control device 67. The housing 419 may form at least a portion of the inner portion as described herein.

The housing 419 may include similar components to the previously described housing 410, but in this embodiment is formed as a single component with at least a portion of a power attachment portion 525A. For example, the housing 419 can be formed into a single piece through a plastic molding process.

This embodiment includes a plurality of PCBs 413A, 413B, 413C, 413D as part of the suspension component control device. Each PCB may be configured with specific circuitry and/or instructions to perform different actions related to the control of the suspension device.

A PCB 413A may have circuitry and/or instructions to provide motor control actions and thus includes a motor controller 487. Another PCB 413B may be configured to interpret and transmit actuation signals from buttons 222D, 222C of the user interface. For example, buttons 222D, 222C can communicate with the PCB 413B through an electrical contact device 414A and the PCB 413B can transmit an action signal with other PCBs 413C, 413D and/or 413A. For example, the action signal may be a control signal configured to cause the motor 432 to operate.

Another PCB 413D may be configured as a central processing component including circuitry and/or instructions to control other portions of the pendant control device 67 . For example, the PCB 413D may include a communication interface, such as a wireless transmitter and/or receiver configured to receive control signals, and/or the PCB 413D may provide instructions to other PCBs 413A, 413B, and/or 413D for processing. The required control of the suspension element control device 67. In this embodiment, the PCB 413D may be a master or first PCB and the other PCBs 413B, 413B and/or 413C may be a slave or second PCB.

Another PCB 413C may have circuitry and/or instructions for connecting a power source 84 communicatively coupled to the PCB 413C. The PCB 413C may be configured to control power leaving or entering the battery, and/or may be configured with appropriate power sensors 415 to provide an indication of the charge level contained in the power supply 84. A plurality of communication conductors 462 can be used to transmit power and data between two or more of the PCBs 413A, 413B, 413C, and 413D.

Other configurations with more or less PCBs can be used. Furthermore, actions associated with the PCBs described herein may be combined using more circuitry and/or instructions than a single PCB.

Figure 7 shows a damping device 302 for a suspension element such as the front fork 60. The damping device 302 is a mechanical device configured to dissipate energy input to the suspension element due to impact or impulse applied to the suspension element. The damping device 302 may include a first portion 304, such as a shaft or leg. The first part 304 moves relative to a second part 306. The first portion 304 or the second portion 306 may provide a damping mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 306 provides the damping mechanism to dissipate the energy causing the first portion 304 to move relative to the second portion 306 . For example, a hydraulic damping mechanism is included in the second portion 306 . Other damping mechanisms may be used, such as mechanical, pneumatic or a combination of mechanical, pneumatic or hydraulic damping mechanisms.

The damping device 302 may be disposed in one of the legs 106, 104 of the suspension element. For example, the first leg 104 may be configured to include a damping device that provides damping for the suspension element, as shown in Figures 8 and 9 shown. For example, the first part 304 of the damping device 302 can be fixed and/or secured to a first part of the suspension element, such as the lower leg, and the second part 306 of the damping device 302 can be fixed to A second part of the suspension element, for example an upper leg. Movement of the lower leg relative to the upper leg due to external input on the suspension element is limited by the damping device. In one embodiment, the lower leg is formed from the fork lower portion 111 and the second portion 306 is attached to or operatively contacts the fork lower portion 111 .

The hydraulic damping mechanism in the second portion 306 may include an accumulation device 308 . The accumulation device 308 is configured to retain a variable amount of fluid that is moved when the damping mechanism is operated. In the illustrated embodiment the first portion 304 is configured to move fluid through a restriction structure 310 in the second portion 306, and the accumulation device 308 includes a flexible member 309. It is configured to expand and contract based on the amount of fluid displaced by movement of the first portion 304. The expandable accumulation device allows fluid to be transferred from one side of the restriction structure 310 to the other without including significant dead space or open space in the fluid damping system. The volume of fluid used in the damping mechanism therefore remains constant and contains very little air in the fluid, thus keeping the flow characteristics of the fluid relatively constant.

Figure 9 provides an enlarged view of area 9 of Figure 8. In this embodiment, the restriction structure includes a low flow restriction including a shim stack 312 configured to inhibit fluid flow. For example, the shim stack 312 is configured to deform when fluid pressure accumulates on one side of the stack to open the flow path in a corresponding direction. The degree and/or amount of deformation of the shim can be varied and/or controlled. For example, an adjustment member 314 may be configured to interact with the shim stack 312 to adjust the degree and/or amount of shim deformation. In this embodiment, the adjustment member 314 may have varying degrees of contact with the shim stack 312 and/or generate varying degrees of contact force in order to control the available shim deformation.

The restriction structure also includes a high volume flow restriction, such as a nozzle 316. The nozzle may be formed as part of the flow box 512. The nozzle 316 includes an orifice 318 and a blocking member 320 providing a needle 321 . The needle 321 can be sized to fit within an aperture 318 that can be formed from a portion of the flow box. The aperture portion may be formed with and/or form a unitary structure of the flow box, or may be a separate component from the rest of the flow box. The needle 321 also has a variable width, such as a taper that increases in width along an actuation axis to create a variable flow area through the nozzle depending on the position of the needle 320 relative to the orifice 318.

The restriction structure 310 may be varied or adjustable. For example, as shown in Figures 10-12, the restriction structure 310 may be operable to produce various amounts or degrees of damping. In one embodiment, the suspension element control device 67 may be configured to provide at least three damping states. These damping states can be achieved by positioning the blocking member 320.

Figure 10 shows the damper in an open state. The shim stack 312 is not in contact with the adjustment member 314 to allow the shim stack 312 to fully flex or deform with minimal restriction of fluid flow therethrough, and the needle 320 is removed from the aperture 318, thereby providing Minimum restriction of flow through the nozzle 316.

Figure 11 shows the damper in a restricted state. The shim stack 312 is not in contact with the adjustment member 314 to allow the shim stack 312 to fully flex or deform with minimal restriction of fluid flow therethrough. However, in this state, the needle 320 is inserted into the orifice 318, thereby providing a restriction of flow through the nozzle 316. As shown, the needle 320 completely blocks the orifice 318 to completely block high volume fluid flow through the restriction structure 310 . However, the degree of engagement of the needle 320 with the orifice 318 may also vary, thereby providing a plurality of different flow areas through the nozzle 316 depending on the position of the needle along an axis of movement B of the obstruction member.

Figure 12 shows the damper in a closed state. The blocking member contacts a structure 322 of a flow box 512, causing the adjustment member to move toward the caulk stack 312 and fully engage it, thereby changing the deformation characteristics of the caulk stack 312 and facilitating movement through the caulk stack 312. The fluid in the slit stack 312 creates more flow restrictions. In this state, the needle 320 is also inserted into the orifice 318 to restrict or prevent flow through the nozzle 316 . As shown, the needle 320 completely blocks the orifice 318 to completely block high volume fluid flow through the restriction structure 310 .

As mentioned above, the blocking member moves along the axis B to change between a plurality of damping states to modify the damping characteristics of the damper. The blocking member can be moved by any technology. In one embodiment the obstruction member is moved using a combination of electrical and mechanical components. For example, an electric motor and gear assembly may be housed in the second portion of the damper. In this embodiment, the second portion of the damper may include a wet portion 517, or a portion that includes a metered amount of hydraulic fluid for a hydraulic damping mechanism, and a dry portion 519, or that does not include hydraulic fluid. part of the fluid. There may be a seal 511 between the dry section and the wet section to prevent hydraulic fluid from entering the dry section. The stem portion is configured to house the electrical components of the suspension component control device. In one embodiment, the dry portion 519 may be disposed in a portion of the damper radially inward of the wet portion. For example, a portion of a chamber of the wet portion may be bounded by the flexible member 309, and the dry portion may be disposed radially inward of the chamber. The flexible member 309 can be configured to provide a variable volume to the chamber. At least a portion of the stem portion may be disposed radially inward of the variable volume chamber of the damper.

The stem portion includes or is configured to include an actuating device 402 . Figures 13 to 16 show various views of an actuator 402. As shown in Figs. The actuating device 402 is configured to cause the damper to change a characteristic. For example, the actuating device 402 may be configured to move the obstruction member. The electrical components of the actuating device may be disposed in a housing 410, as shown in Figure 13. The housing may have an opening 412 through which an electrical contact 414 protrudes. The electrical contact device 414 is configured to communicate power and/or data with the power connector 202 . For example, the electrical communication connectors 205 are configured to transmit power and/or data to the electrical contact device 414 . In one embodiment, the electrical communication connectors 205 are configured to transmit power and data to the electrical contact device 414 . In one embodiment, the electrical communication connectors 205 are configured to contact the electrical contact device 414 .

In one embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 9 , the housing 410 may be sized to fit within a space of the damping device 302 . For example, a cavity may be formed in the damper 302 and sized and shaped to receive the housing 410 .

The housing 410 may include a closure member 416. The closure member 416 may be a cover disposed at one longitudinal end of the housing. The opening 412 may be formed in the closure member 416 . The closure member is removably attached to one or more other portions of the housing 410 . For example, the closure member 416 may be attached to one or most other portions of the housing 410 via removable fasteners 418 such as screws and/or bolts. Other permanent or removable attachment techniques such as threads, or snap-fit mechanisms may be used instead of, or in addition to, the removable fasteners 418. The closure member 416 is removable to provide access to the internal components of the housing 410 for maintenance. For example, the housing may include a motor 432 disposed therein, and removal of the closure member may facilitate repair and/or replacement of the motor 432. Additionally, the closure member 416 may include a sealing member 417 such as an O-ring or gasket. The sealing member provides a seal that protects an inner space 411 and/or components disposed therein from water and other environmental contaminants.

The actuating device may include an output portion 420. The output portion 420 provides a power interactive portion of the actuating device outside the housing 410 . For example, the output portion 420 may be configured to couple with an actuation member 510 . The actuating member 510 is engageable with a rotary coupling 421 between the actuating device and the blocking member 320 .

The output portion 420 may include an output housing 424. The output housing 424 is removably attached to one or more other portions of the housing 410 . For example, the output housing 424 may be attached to one or more other portions of the housing 410 via removable fasteners 426 such as screws and/or bolts. Other attachment techniques such as threads or snap-fit mechanisms may be used instead of, or in addition to, the removable fasteners 426 . The output housing 424 is configured to receive a gearbox or gear set 428 or other rotational movement mechanism operable to provide an input to the rotational movement mechanism. One rotation speed becomes the output. The gear set 428 includes two or more gears 429 for converting an input rotational speed into an output with a different rotational speed. In one embodiment, the gear set 428 includes a plurality of planetary gear stages to convert the input rotational speed to different rotational speeds.

In one embodiment, the housing 410 of the actuating device 402 includes at least three parts. An output housing 424, a closure member 416 and a third housing portion 430. The third housing portion 430 may be an electronic housing configured to house an electric motor and/or other electronic components. Because the various components, namely the output housing 424 with the gear set 428 and the electronics housing with the electrical components, can be produced separately and then assembled with the closure member 416 to provide the actuating device, the multi-part Configuration can provide a variety of other benefits during assembly or manufacturing.

The electronic components may include different components. For example, the electronic components may include a motor 432 such as an electric motor and a printed circuit board ("PCB") assembly providing a substrate 413 with attached circuitry 28, such as a processor 20 for the motor 432 and/or a motor controller and/or power processing or signal processing device. The PCB assembly may also include electrical transmission attachments attached to the electrical contacts 414 so that power and/or data can be transmitted through the electrical contacts 414 to other circuitry of the PCB, such as the processor 20 . The PCB may also include power and/or data conductive connections 487 to provide power and/or data to the motor 432 . The conductive connection may be a motor controller that provides command signals to the motor 432 . The PCB may include other circuitry. Additionally, the circuitry may be present on one or both sides of the PCB substrate 413 . For example, as shown in FIG. 16 , the circuit system 28 is provided on both sides of the substrate 413 .

The motor 432 may include a shaft 434 that rotates when driven by a motor power mechanism such as an electric field of an electric motor. The shaft 434 is operatively coupled with the gear set 428 . In one embodiment, the shaft 434 is operatively coupled to the gear set 428 at one end of the shaft 434 . The other end of the shaft 434 may have a rotary encoding device 436 that is partially or completely fixed. The rotary encoding device is configured to detect and provide a signal representative of the rotational position of the shaft 434. The rotary encoding device 436 may include a magnet 437 fixed on the shaft 434 and a rotary magnetic encoder 438 configured to detect the rotational position of the magnet 437 . The rotary magnetic encoder 438 may also be configured to calculate a degree of rotation to determine the position of the motor and gear set 428. In one embodiment, the rotary magnetic encoder 438 is disposed on and attached to the PCB to form part of the PCB circuitry.

Figure 17 shows an exploded view of the suspension state changing mechanism 504 of the actuating device 402. The suspension state changing mechanism 504 may include the actuating member 510 and the blocking member 320 . The suspension state changing mechanism 504 may also include the flow box 512 .

As mentioned above, the flow box 512 includes the orifice 318 flow structure for the nozzle, and the flow through the nozzle is restricted by the obstruction member 320. The aperture may form part of the flow box, or an integral part of the flow box. The obstruction member 320 also includes threads 323 configured to rotatably operate with the reciprocal threads 513 of the flow box 512 . The threads 323 and 513 of the interface of the obstruction member 320 and the flow box 512 are configured such that when the obstruction member rotates around the moving axis B, the threaded interface causes the needle 321 of the obstruction member 320 to move along the direction relative to the flow box 512. Axis B moves as shown and described in Figures 10 to 12. The threaded interface can be configured such that the force exerted on the blocking member 320 along the moving axis B does not cause the blocking member 320 to rotate and/or linearly along the moving axis B, such as through the thread pitch and/or height. Move. Therefore, the movement of the blocking member 320 is controlled by the rotation of the blocking member 320 . In this way, the high pressure from the fluid acting on the needle 321 will not cause the obstruction member to move away from the orifice of the flow box 512 . The blocking member resists rotation, thereby allowing other rotatable coupling components (eg, the motor and/or gear set) to passively maintain the position of the blocking member. Additionally, the encoder is not rotating. The blocking member therefore acts as one of the non-reversibly drivable elements in the rotary engagement system. The non-backdriveable element allows less power to be used to maintain the state of the system and provides higher efficiency and better power usage. In one embodiment, the movement axis B of the obstruction member is parallel or coaxial with the movement axis 501 of one leg 104 of the suspension element.

The blocking member 320 also includes a coupling interface 326 configured to couple with the actuating member 510 such that the blocking member 320 responds to the force exerted on the coupling interface 326 by the actuating member 510 Come spin. For example, as shown, the obstruction member includes a female socket configured to interact with a male socket topography or shape of the output portion 514 of the actuation member 510 . The socket interface may be configured to permit relative movement between the blocking member 320 and the actuating member 510 while still providing a rotational coupling. For example, the coupling interface 326 of the blocking member 320 may include one or more tongues, ridges, or ribs 328 configured to connect with corresponding slots 516 of the actuation member 510 . Therefore, the tongue 328 can be inserted into the slot 516 to rotationally couple the actuating member 510 and the blocking member 320 but allow the tongue 328 to move linearly along the slot 516 . Thus, using this interface, the actuation member 510 and the blocking member are rotatably coupled but provide a mechanism for relative linear movement.

The actuator housing 570 provides a structure for containing the actuator 402 and positioning the device within the damper. The actuator housing 570 houses the actuator 402 and is configured to position the output portion 420 of the actuator 402 for rotation with an input coupling 518 or coupler of the actuator member 510 ground coupling. The input coupling 518 may include a male socket coupled to a female socket of the output portion 420 to provide rotational coupling. Therefore, the actuating device 402 rotates the actuating member 510 about the moving axis B. In one embodiment, an interior space of the actuator housing 570 defines a trunk portion of the suspension element control device. The actuator housing 570 can also cooperate with the actuating member 510 to provide a defined boundary C between the dry portion and the wet portion, thereby creating a sealed boundary between the wet and dry portions, and the The actuation member crosses the sealing boundary. The actuator housing 570 is attached to the flow box 512 at corresponding threaded sections 572, 513 of the actuator housing 570 and the flow box 512, respectively.

The actuating member 510 includes a sealing device 511 to provide sealing means against a sealing surface of the actuating device housing. For example, the sealing device 511 may be a lip seal, cup seal, O-ring seal, or other seal. The sealing device 511 may be any device operable to provide a seal between the wet and dry portions of the damper. The sealing device 511 can provide a sealing mechanism while allowing the actuating member 510 to pass.

The actuating member 510 may also include a fixed structure 521 configured to operate with a corresponding topography of the actuating device housing to maintain the position of the actuating member 510 along the moving axis B. . The actuating member may also include a rotating surface 523 configured to provide support for any non-axial forces of the system and facilitate installation of the actuating member 510 in the actuating device housing. of rotation.

In one embodiment, an actuating member is provided including an input portion 518 and an output portion 514, and a sealing device 511 is provided between the input portion and the output portion. The input portion is configured to be rotationally coupled with an actuating device, and the output portion is configured to be rotationally coupled with a flow obstruction member to modify the damping characteristics of a damper.

Figure 19 is a block diagram of an electronic suspension control system 40 for a bicycle. The system 40 can be used alone to communicate with and/or to control communication with a variety of bicycle components or other devices. The system 40 includes a circuit system 28 that includes at least a processor 20 and a memory 10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the circuitry 28 also includes a user interface 82, a motion controller interface 81, and a communication interface 90. The system 40 may also include a plurality of sensors 92 for indicating the condition, position and/or status of a suspension element or portion thereof. The at least one processor 20 may use the sensors to adjust, control, change and/or monitor the status of the suspension element or suspension system.

Circuitry 28 may also include component connections and/or electrical connection materials embedded in a substrate material or electrically connected to the system 40 . The system also includes at least one motion controller 260, such as a motor controller 487, in communication with the motion controller interface 81. The system 40 may have additional, different, or fewer components. For example, the user interface 82 may not be included in a circuitry 28 and/or the system. In addition, most components can be combined. In one embodiment, such as that described with reference to Figures 2 to 8, the system is integrated with a bicycle suspension component or element such as a front fork.

The processor 20 may include a general processor, a digital signal processor, an application specific integrated circuit ("ASIC"), a field programmable gate array ("FPGA"), an analog circuit, a digital circuit, a combination thereof, or a currently known method. or processors developed in the future. The processor 20 may be a single device or a combination of multiple devices, such as through shared or parallel processing.

The circuitry 28 is operable to provide a signal that causes the motion controller 260 to operate. The circuitry is also operable to receive a signal representative of a movement performed by the motion controller.

The memory 10 can be a dependent memory or a non-volatile memory. The memory 10 may include a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a flash memory, an electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) or other types of memory. one or more of the memories. The memory 10 is removable from the suspension control system 40, such as a secure digital (SD) memory card. In one specific non-limiting example embodiment, a computer-readable medium may include a solid-state memory, such as a memory card or other package that houses one or more non-volatile read-only memories. In addition, the computer-readable medium may be a random access memory or other electrically dependent rewritable memory. In addition, the computer-readable medium may include a magneto-optical or optical medium, such as a magnetic disk or tape or other storage device. Accordingly, this disclosure is contemplated to include any or more of a computer-readable medium and other equivalent and successor media that can store data or instructions.

The memory 10 is a non-transitory computer readable medium and is described as a single medium. However, the term "computer-readable medium" includes a single medium or a plurality of media, such as a centralized or distributed memory structure, and/or an associated cache operable to store one or more arrays of instructions and other data. The term "computer-readable medium" shall also include any medium that can store, encode, or have a set of instructions for execution by a processor or cause a computer system to perform any one or more of the methods or operations disclosed herein.

In another embodiment, special purpose hardware embodiments, such as application specific integrated circuits, programming logic arrays, and other hardware devices, may be configured to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications for devices and systems that may include various embodiments may broadly include various electronic and computer systems. One or more of the embodiments described herein may use two or more specific interconnect hardware modules or devices and by transmitting associated control and data signals between or through the modules, Or function as most parts of a special application integrated circuit. Therefore, the system includes software, firmware and hardware embodiments.

The power supply 84 is a portable power supply. The power source may include, for example, using a mechanical generator, a fuel cell device, photovoltaic cells, or any other power generation device to generate electricity. The power source may include a battery, such as a device consisting of two or more electrochemical cells that convert stored chemical energy into electrical energy. The power source 84 may include one of a variety of batteries or other power supply devices. Specially matched or assembled battery types can be used, or standard battery types such as CR 2012, CR 2016 and/or CR 2032.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 5, the power supply 84 is provided behind a suspension element such as the front fork. As shown, the power connector 202 is configured to attach to a fork leg or crown in a manner that positions the power source 84 behind the leg or crown relative to the forward direction of the bicycle. This power supply positioning method can be used to protect the power supply during active riding situations involving external environmental factors such as branches, rocks, etc. that come into contact with the bicycle and/or fork.

The communication interface 90 is used to transmit data and/or signals from the system 40 to another component of the bicycle, or to an external device such as a mobile phone or other computing device. The communication interface 90 uses any operable connection to transmit the data. An operational connection may be one capable of sending and/or receiving signals, physical communications, and logical communications. An operational connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and/or a data interface. The communication interface 90 may be configured to communicate wirelessly and therefore includes one or more antennas. The communication interface 90 is used for wireless communication in any form currently known or later developed. Although this specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in specific embodiments with reference to specific standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards used for Internet and other packet-switched network transmission (eg, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, HTML, HTTP, HTTPS) represent examples of the latest technologies. These standards are periodically superseded by faster and more efficient equivalents that perform substantially the same function. BLUETOOTH® and/or ANT+™ standards may also or alternatively be used. Accordingly, superseding standards and protocols that have the same or similar functions as those disclosed herein are considered equivalents thereof. In one embodiment, the communication interface 90 may be configured to transmit a signal representative of a power determined by a measured strain of a body. Additionally, power for this decision can be transmitted wirelessly.

The motion controller interface 81 is used to transmit data and/or signals from one or more motion controllers 260 to the circuit system 28 . The interface 81 communicates using wired and/or wireless communication technologies. For example, the interface 81 may communicate with the motion controllers 260 using a system bus or other communication technology. The motion controller interface 81 may include additional electrical and/or electronic components for detecting, transmitting/or processing signals from the motion controller 260, such as another processor and/or memory.

The user interface 82 may be one or more buttons, a keypad, a keyboard, a mouse, a stylus, a trackball, a rocker switch, a touch pad, a voice recognition circuit, or a user interface 82 that is used between a user and the suspension. Other devices or components for transmitting data between the control systems 40. For example, the user interface 82 may be a capacitive or resistive touch screen. The user interface 82 may include a liquid crystal display ("LCD") panel, light emitting diode ("LED"), LED screen, thin film transistor screen, or another display, such as in the embodiment described with reference to FIG. 21 LED 505A, 505B. User interface 82 may also include audio functionality or speakers. The user interface 82 may also be a single LED light and/or an accompanying button to provide input and/or output to the system 40 . In one embodiment, the user interface 82 includes an LED indicator. The LED indicator lights up to indicate input of commands or other actions to the suspension control system.

The communication interface 90 is configured to send data and/or signals such as control signals and commands to and/or receive data and/or signals such as control signals and commands from a bicycle component such as the control device 63 . The component communication interface 90 uses any operable connection to transmit this data. An operational connection may be one capable of sending and/or receiving signals, physical communications, and logical communications. An operational connection may include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and/or a data interface. The communication interface 90 is used for wireless communication in any form currently known or later developed. Although this specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in specific embodiments with reference to specific standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards used for Internet and other packet-switched network transmission (eg, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, HTML, HTTP, HTTPS) represent examples of the latest technologies. These standards are periodically superseded by faster and more efficient equivalents that perform substantially the same function. Accordingly, superseding standards and protocols that have the same or similar functions as those disclosed herein are considered equivalents thereof. In one embodiment, AIREA™, a 128-bit wireless protocol, may be used.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the methods described herein may be implemented by software programs executed on a computer system such as the circuit system 28 . Additionally, in an exemplary non-limiting example, implementations may include distributed processing, component/object distributed processing, and/or parallel processing. Alternatively, a virtual computer system process may be configured to perform one or more of the methods or functions described herein.

A computer program (also called a program, software, software application, code or coding) may be written in any form of programming language including a compiled or interpreted language, and it may be included as a stand-alone program or as a module, Deployed as components, subroutines, or any other form suitable for use as other units in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A program may be stored as part of a file that contains other programs or data (such as one or more programs stored in a markup language file), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in many In a coordination file (for example, a file that stores portions of one or more modules, subroutines, or code). A computer program may be deployed to execute on one computer or on a plurality of computers located at one location or dispersed across multiple locations and interconnected by a communications network.

The programs and logic flows described in this specification may be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by manipulating input data and generating output. The programs and logic flows may also be implemented by and devices may use special purpose logic circuitry, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Special Integrated Circuit).

As used in this application, the terms "circuitry" or "circuitry" mean all of the following: (a) stand-alone hardware circuit embodiments (e.g., implemented only in analog and/or digital circuitry); (b) circuits and A combination of software (and/or firmware), such as (and applicable to): (i) a combination of (majority) processors or (ii) a majority of processors/software (including (majority) digital signal processors)) Parts, software, and memories that work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or a server to perform various functions; and (c) a majority of circuits, such as software or firmware that is required even if the software or firmware does not physically exist. Software or firmware to operate a microprocessor (multiple) or a part of a microprocessor (multiple).

This definition of "circuitry" applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claim. In another example, the term "circuitry" used in this application also includes only a processor (or a plurality of processors) or a portion of a processor and its accompanying software and/or firmware and other An embodiment of an electronic component. The term "circuitry" also includes, for example and if applicable to the specific request component, a baseband integrated circuit or an application processor integrated circuit for a mobile computing device or in a server, cellular network device or one of the similar integrated circuits in other network devices.

Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, for example, general and special purpose microprocessors, and any or most processors of any kind of digital computer. Typically, a processor receives instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory, or both. The main components of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer also includes one or more mass storage devices, such as magnetic, optical disks, or optical disks, for storing data, or is operatively coupled to receive data from or transmit data to the one or more mass storage devices. or most mass storage devices or both. However, a computer does not necessarily have these devices. In addition, a computer can be embedded in another device, such as a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio player, a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, or a suspension control system 40, etc. Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM and flash memory. Devices; disks, such as internal hard drives or removable disks; optical disks; and CD ROMs and DVD-ROMs. The processor and the memory may supplement or add special purpose logic circuitry.

In one embodiment, a suspension assembly for a bicycle is provided. The suspension component includes a first tube with a first end and a second tube with a second end. The first tube and the second tube are assembled into a sleeve telescopic configuration. The sleeve telescopic configuration having the first end serving as a first distal end of the sleeve telescopic arrangement and the second end forming a second distal end of the sleeve telescopic arrangement, the sleeve telescopic arrangement having the first tube and The inner wall of the second tube defines an inner space. The suspension assembly also includes a fluid damper disposed in the interior space, the fluid damper having a plurality of operating states configured to damp or prevent movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The fluid damper includes: an inner fluid portion exposed to damping fluid; an inner stem portion isolated from the damping fluid; and an actuating member disposed between the inner fluid portion and the inner stem portion , the actuating member is configured such that movement of the actuating member produces a change in the state of the damper.

In one embodiment, movement of the actuating member includes movement in the inner fluid portion and the inner stem portion.

In one embodiment, the actuation member is formed as a single component.

In one embodiment, the movement of the actuating member is a rotation. The rotation can be about a central axis of the telescopic arrangement of the sleeve.

In one embodiment, the actuating member includes an input portion and an output portion.

In one embodiment, the change in state includes a change in fluid properties within the damper.

In one embodiment, the damper includes at least two available states. For example, the available states may include an open flow state and/or a restricted flow state. The restricted flow state may completely limit movement of the first distal end relative to the second distal end.

In one embodiment, the damper further includes a motor disposed in the inner stem portion and a gearbox having an output coupling rotationally coupled with the input portion of the actuating member pieces. The gearbox can be removably coupled with the input section.

In one embodiment, the inner stem portion is defined by an inner space of a first housing, and the inner fluid portion includes a second housing, the first housing being coupled to the second housing . The actuation member may be provided in the first housing and the second housing.

The description of the embodiments described herein is intended to provide an overview of the structure of the various embodiments. These descriptions are not intended to be a complete description of all elements and features of devices and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of this disclosure. Numerous other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure, and thus structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, the illustrations are representative only and may not be drawn to scale. Some proportions in the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be reduced. Accordingly, this disclosure and these drawings should be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive.

Although this specification contains many details, these details should not be construed as limitations on the invention or the scope of the claims, but rather as specific descriptions of features of particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of different embodiments can also be implemented together in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable combination. Furthermore, while multiple features may function in certain combinations as described above or even be requested as such initially, one or more features from a requested combination may in certain circumstances be deleted from that combination and the requested combination Combinations may involve a combination or a variation of a combination.

Similarly, although various operations and/or actions are shown in the figures and described herein in a specific order, this should not be understood to mean that such operations must be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or that Perform all actions shown to achieve the desired results. In some situations, multiplexing or parallel processing is advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the above embodiments should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that any of the program components and systems described may be integrated together in a single software product or package into most software products.

One or more embodiments of this disclosure may be individually and/or referred to herein by the term "invention" for convenience only and without any intention to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. or expressed collectively. Additionally, although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purposes may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent modifications or variations of various embodiments. Upon review of this description, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand combinations of the above-described embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein.

This abstract is presented to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b) with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or significance of the patent claimed. Additionally, in the foregoing detailed description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment to simplify the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be construed as an expression of an invention requiring the claimed embodiments to require more features than are specifically stated in each claim. Rather, the following claims express that inventive subject matter may relate to less than all features of any one disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the patent scope of the following claims is incorporated into this detailed description, and each claim independently defines the subject matter of the respective claims.

It is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and it is understood that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The scope of this application should not be construed as being limited to the sequence or elements described unless stated otherwise. Accordingly, all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the following claims and their equivalents are claimed as the present invention.

Although most embodiments have been described for purposes of illustration, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many modifications, additions and substitutions are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. It is therefore intended that the foregoing description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and it is to be understood that all equivalents and/or combinations of embodiments and examples are intended to be encompassed by this description.

Although certain suspension components, assemblies, features, and methods of operation and use have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all embodiments of the disclosed teachings that fall fairly within the scope of possible equivalents.

From the above discussion, it will be understood that the present invention can be embodied in a variety of example forms, including but not limited to the following: Example 1: A suspension component for a bicycle, the suspension component includes: A first tube with a first end and a second tube with a second end, the first tube and the second tube are assembled into a sleeve telescopic configuration, the sleeve telescopic configuration has a function as the sleeve The first end of a first distal end of the telescoping arrangement and the second end forming a second distal end of the sleeve telescoping arrangement having a connection through the first tube and the second tube A space within the limits of an inner wall; and A fluid damper disposed in the inner space, the fluid damper having a plurality of operating states configured to prevent movement of the first tube relative to the second tube, the fluid damper comprising: an internal fluid portion exposed to the damping fluid; an inner portion which is isolated from the damping fluid; and An actuating member is provided in both the inner fluid portion and the inner stem portion, the actuating member being assembled such that movement of the actuating member causes a change in the state of the damper. Example 2: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the movement of the actuating member includes movement in both the inner fluid portion and the inner stem portion. Example 3: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the actuating member is formed as a single piece. Example 4: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the movement of the actuating member is a rotation. Example 5: The suspension assembly of Example 4, wherein the rotation is about a central axis of the telescopic arrangement of the sleeve. Example 6: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the actuating member includes an input coupling. Example 7: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the change in state includes a change in fluid properties within the fluid damper. Example 8: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the fluid damper includes at least two available states. Example 9: The suspension component of Example 8, wherein the available states include an open flow state. Example 10: The suspension component of Example 9, wherein the available states further include a restricted flow state. Example 11: The suspension assembly of Example 10, wherein the restricted flow state completely limits movement of the first distal end relative to movement of the second distal end. Example 12: The suspension assembly of Example 1, wherein the fluid damper further includes a motor disposed in the inner stem portion and a gearbox, the gearbox having an input coupling rotating with the actuating member Ground coupling to one of the output couplings. Example 13: The suspension assembly of Example 12, wherein the gearbox is removably coupled to the input coupling. Example 14: The suspension component of Example 12, wherein the inner stem portion is defined by an inner space of a first housing, and the inner fluid portion includes a second housing, the first housing and the The second housing is coupled. Example 15: The suspension assembly of Example 14, wherein the actuating member is disposed in both the first housing and the second housing.

9:Area 10:Memory 20: Processor 28:Circuit system 36:Rear gear shifting device 40: (Electronic suspension control) system 50:Bicycle 52: Frame 54: handle 56: Seat or saddle 58: First or front wheel 60,60A: Front fork 61: Second rear suspension element 62: Second or rear wheel 63:Control device 64: Transmission system 65: Crank assembly motion sensing device 66:Crank assembly 67,67A: Suspension element control device 68:Chain 70:Sprocket set 75:Crank arm 76:pedal 80: Seat post assembly 81: Motion controller interface 82,220,220A: User interface 84:Power supply 85:Latch 86:hook 90: Communication interface 92: Sensor 99A:Power connector interface 102:Steering tube 104:First leg 106:Second leg 108: Wheel attachment topography 110: Brake (attached) topography 111: Single piece downtube construction or lower fork 112:Crown 202,202A:Power connector 204: Leg attachment morphology 205: (Electrical) communication connector 206:Connection part 222A:First button 222B: Second button 222C, 222D: button 260: Motion controller 302: Damping device 304:Part 1 306:Part 2 308: Accumulation device 309:Flexible member 310:Restriction structure 312: Stack of gap fillers 314:Adjust components 316:Nozzle 318:orifice 320:obstruction component 321: Needle 322:Structure 323,513:Thread 326:Coupling interface 328: Tongue, ridge or rib 402: Actuating device 410,419: Shell 411:Inner space 412:Open your mouth 413:Substrate 413A, 413B, 413C, 413D: Printed circuit board (PCB) 414,414A: Electrical contact device 415:Power sensor 416: Closed component 417:Sealing component 418,426: Removable fasteners 420: Output part 421: Rotary coupling 424:Output housing 428:Gear set 429:Gear 430: The third shell part 432: Motor 434:Shaft 436: Rotary encoding device 437:Magnet 438: Rotary magnetic encoder 462:Communication conductor 487: Motor controller; conductive connection device for power and/or data 500A: Power supply attachment shaft 501,B: moving axis 503: Top tube 504: Suspension state changing mechanism 505A,505B:LED 506:Downtube 510: Actuating member 511:Sealing (device) 512:Flow box 514:Output part 516:Slot 517: Wet part 518: Input coupling; input part 519: dry part 521: Fixed structure 523:Rotating surface 525A: Power supply attachment part 570: Actuator housing 572:Threaded section A:arrow number C: define boundaries

The objects, features and advantages of the present invention can be understood by reading the following description in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 shows a side view of an example of a bicycle;

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a front suspension assembly of a bicycle constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of the suspension assembly before Figure 2;

Figure 4 shows a side view of the suspension assembly before Figure 2;

Figure 5 shows a top view of the suspension assembly before Figure 2;

Figures 6A and 6B show a top view of a power connector of the suspension assembly before Figure 2;

Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a damping device of the suspension assembly before Figure 2;

Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the suspension assembly before Figure 2;

Figure 9 shows an enlarged view of the cross-sectional view of the area shown in Figure 8;

Figures 10 to 12 show enlarged views of the cross-sectional view of the area shown in Figure 9;

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of an actuating device of the damping device of Figure 7;

Figure 14 shows a perspective view of the actuating device of the damping device of Figure 7 from another perspective of that shown in Figure 13;

Figure 15A shows a side view of the actuating device of Figure 13;

Figure 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the actuating device shown in Figure 15A;

Figure 16 shows the actuating device with a housing removed;

Figure 17 shows an exploded view of several components of the damping state changing device of the damper of Figure 7;

Figure 18 shows a perspective view of an actuating component of the damping state changing device of the damper of Figure 7;

Figure 19 is a block diagram of the electronic part of the suspension component;

Figure 20 shows a side view of another embodiment of a front suspension assembly;

Figures 21 to 22 show various views of a power connector and certain stem portions of the suspension assembly prior to Figure 20; and

Figure 23 shows a cross-sectional view of the power connector and certain trunk portions of the suspension assembly shown in Figure 20.

60: Front fork

67: Suspension element control device

84:Power supply

102:Steering tube

104:First leg

106:Second leg

108: Wheel attachment topography

110: Brake (attached) topography

111: Single piece downtube construction or lower fork

112:Crown

Claims (2)

A suspension component for a bicycle, the suspension component includes: a damper having a plurality of operating states configured to resist movement of the damper; an electric device arranged to effect these operating states of the damper; and A power supply attached to the suspension assembly and configured to provide power to the electric device. A suspension component for a bicycle, the suspension component includes: a damper having a plurality of operating states configured to resist movement of the damper; an electric device arranged to effect these operating states of the damper; and A wireless communicator arranged to receive signals arranged to cause those operating states of the electric device.