TWI540077B - Bicycle crank arm - Google Patents

Description

Bicycle crank arm Reference to relevant application

This is a partial application for U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/414,435, filed on March 7, 2012. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/414,435, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The invention is generally related to a bicycle crank arm. More specifically, the present invention relates to a bicycle crank arm having a bicycle input force processing device that detects a pedaling force.

Bicycles are sometimes equipped with a variety of different sensors for providing information to the rider and/or for providing information to the controller to control various aspects of the bicycle, such as suspension stiffness or suspension stiffness (suspension stiffness) ). One such sensor is a torque or force sensor for detecting the rider's pedaling force. A variety of different sensing arrangements have been proposed to detect the rider's pedaling force. For example, in U.S. Patent No. 7,516,677 (issued to Shimano Inc.), a cylindrical torsion detecting sleeve member (force sensor unit) is provided on the crankshaft for detecting application during pedaling. The pedaling force on the crankshaft. Another example of a force sensor for detecting the pedaling force applied to the crank arm is disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 3047816 (see Figs. 3 and 4). In this new patent, a torsion sensor is used to detect the relative resistance between a flexible rod and a crank arm. Crank arm and flexibility The rod is rotatable about the crankshaft via a one-way clutch bearing. The free end of the flexible rod contacts a portion of the crank arm.

Recently, strain gauges have been used to detect pedaling during pedaling. For example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0282001 (issued to Shimano Inc.) discloses a force sensor that utilizes a strain gauge to detect the pedaling force applied to the crankshaft during pedaling. Another example is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,006,574, in which a strain gauge is used on a crank arm to detect the pedaling force applied by the rider. Typically, strain gauges must be installed with high accuracy to obtain accurate measurements. Therefore, when the strain gauge is mounted on the bicycle crank arm to detect the pedaling force of the rider, the manufacturing cost and/or manufacturing time of manufacturing the bicycle crank arm is increased.

In summary, the disclosure herein is directed to a bicycle crank arm that is provided with a sensing configuration that detects the pedaling force or power being applied to the bicycle crank arm.

In one embodiment, a bicycle crank arm is provided that basically includes a crank body, a sensor support member, and a power sensing device. The crank body includes a crank shaft mounting portion and a pedal mounting portion. A sensor support member is disposed within the cavity of the crank body and attached to the crank body. The power sensing device is supported on the sensor support member.

With this bicycle crank arm, the power sensing device can be mounted to the bicycle crank arm in a relatively simple manner. For those who are familiar with the bicycle field Further features, objects, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed bicycle crank arms will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

The attached drawings that form part of this original disclosure are referenced below.

Selected embodiments are described below with reference to the drawings. It is apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited by the scope of the accompanying claims and the equivalents thereof.

Referring first to Figure 1, a bicycle 10 is illustrated that includes a bicycle crank assembly 12 having a first (left) bicycle crank arm 14 in accordance with a first embodiment. Here, bicycle 10 is a road style bicycle that includes a variety of different electrically controlled components. Of course, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the crank assembly 12 can be used with other types of bicycles. The bicycle crank assembly 12 additionally includes a second (right) crank arm 16. The free ends of the bicycle crank arms 14 and 16 are each provided with a bicycle pedal 18. The rider applies a pedaling force on the bicycle pedal 18, which is then transmitted to the bicycle crank arms 14 and 16 in a conventional manner for moving the bicycle chain C to propel the bicycle 10. As will be explained below, the bicycle crank assembly 12 is provided with a bicycle input force processing device that detects the pedaling force to provide information that can be transmitted to the rider and/or can be used by a variety of different electronic components (eg, transmitted to The power of the bicycle crank assembly 12). The bicycle 10 is provided to supply power to the self Battery B of various electronic components of the vehicle 10.

As shown in FIG. 2, the bicycle 10 has a handlebar H, and the handlebar H has a bicycle code meter 20 and a pair of electronic shifters 22A and 22B. Preferably, battery B supplies power to electronic shifters 22A and 22B. The bicycle code meter 20 may have its own power source (preferably built-in) or may receive power from the battery B. The electronic shifters 22A and 22B constitute a shift command unit that is electrically coupled to the bicycle code table 20 for providing shift information to the bicycle code table 20 in response to the operation of the electronic shifters 22A and 22B. The electronic shifter 22A is electrically connected to the electronic rear derailleur RD (Fig. 1), and the electronic shifter 22B is electrically connected to the electronic front derailleur FD (Fig. 1). Of course, electronic shifter 22A can be electrically coupled to electronic front derailleur FD if needed and/or desired, and electronic shifter 22B can be electrically coupled to electronic rear derailleur RD. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1, electronic shifters 22A and 22B are road type shifters that include a brake function. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types of electronic shifters can be used. Electronic shifters are known in the bicycle field, so electronic shifters 22A and 22B will not be discussed and/or shown in detail herein. As will be explained below, the bicycle crank assembly 12 is operatively coupled to the bicycle code table 20 for providing information (e.g., power transmitted to the bicycle crank assembly 12) to the bicycle code meter 20. The bicycle crank assembly 12 can be wired to the bicycle code meter 20 or can be wirelessly communicated with the bicycle code meter 20 as needed and/or desired.

As shown in FIG. 3, the bicycle crank assembly 12 additionally includes a crank axle 24. The first and second crank arms 14 and 16 are fixedly coupled to the crank axle 24, causing the first and second crank arms 14 and 16 to extend perpendicularly from the crankshaft 24 in opposite directions. In the illustrated embodiment, the first crank arm 14 is attached to the first end of the crank axle 24 in a releasable and remountable manner. The second crank arm 16 is attached to the second end of the crank axle 24 in a conventional manner (eg, crimping, locking ring, adhesive, etc.). In the first illustrated embodiment, the second crank arm 16 has a pair of sprockets S1 and S2. The sprocket wheels S1 and S2 are fixedly mounted to the second crank arm 16 in a conventional manner (for example, a ring nut and a ring bolt). As seen in FIG. 3, the longitudinal center of the crankshaft 24 defines the axis of rotation A of the bicycle crank assembly 12.

Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, first and second crank arms 14 and 16 are discussed in greater detail below. Basically, the first and second crank arms 14 and 16 are each provided with a power sensing device 26 supported on the sensor support member 28. As will be explained below, the sensor support member 28 mounts the power sensing device 26 to the crank arms 14 or 16 to measure the torque or power applied to the crank arms 14 or 16. The information from the power sensing device 26 can then be used to calculate the force applied by the rider and/or to assist in operating the components of the bicycle 10.

More specifically, the first crank arm 14 includes a crank body 30 having a cavity 32 that receives one of the power sensing devices 26, while the second crank arm 16 includes a crank body 34 having a receiving power sensing device 26 The other of the cavities 36. Although the crank bodies 30 and 34 have different overall configurations, the cavities 32 and 36 of the crank bodies 30 and 34 are substantially identical in configuration such that the power sensing device 26 is supported by the sensor support member 28. It is supported in the cavities 32 and 36. Therefore, only the first crank arm 14 will be discussed in further detail herein. However, the following description of the power sensing device 26 being mounted within the cavity 32 by the sensor support member 28 is also applicable to the second crank arm 16.

As seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the sensor support member 28 is disposed within the cavity 32 of the crank body 30 and is non-movably attached to the crank body 30. The sensor support member 28 is a stick shaped member that is used to easily and accurately position the power sensing device 26 on the crank body 30 such that strain from the pedaling force 30 occurs from the pedal body 30 via the pedaling force The sensor support member 28 is transmitted to the power sensing device 26. Preferably, the sensor support member 28 is non-detachably secured to the crank body 30 at two longitudinally spaced apart positions of the crank body 30 for ensuring that the pedaling force is via the sensor support member 28. Transmission to power sensing device 26.

As seen in FIGS. 3 through 5, the crank body 30 additionally includes a crank axle mounting portion 38, a pedal mounting portion 40, and an arm portion 42. The cavity 32 is formed in the arm portion 42 between the crank shaft mounting portion 38 and the pedal mounting portion 40. The arm portion 42 constitutes a base portion of the crank body 30. In the first illustrated embodiment, the crank axle mounting portion 38, the pedal mounting portion 40, and the arm portion 42 are integrally formed as a one-piece unit member from a metal material typically used to manufacture a crank arm. . However, the crank body 30 may be formed of a non-metallic material such as a fiber reinforced material such as a carbon fiber material. Although the crank body 30 is generally a very rigid member, the crank body 30 experiences a slight elasticity while the rider is stepping on it. The amount of resilient flexing. In other words, the arm portion 42 of the crank body 30 is elastically deformed when the pedaling force applied to the pedal mounting portion 40 via the bicycle pedal 18 is applied while the rider is stepping on. Therefore, the crank body 30 can be elastically deformed when a pedaling force is applied.

As seen in FIG. 4, the crank axle mounting portion 38 has a spline hole 44. Here, the first crank arm 14 is attached to the crankshaft 24 using a lock ring. However, the first crank arm 14 can be attached to the crank axle 24 in any conventional manner. For example, the first crank arm 14 can be modified to have a radial slot extending from the spline hole 44, and the first crank arm 14 can be tightened by conventionally screwing into the end portion of the crank arm 14. Two clamping bolts on the crankshaft 24. The pedal mounting portion 40 has a threaded bore 48 for fixedly attaching one of the pedals 18. In the case of the left crank arm, the thread of the threaded bore 48 is a left hand thread for attaching the left bicycle pedal. On the other hand, in the case of the right crank arm, the right hand thread is typically used to attach the right bicycle pedal.

Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the power sensing device 26 and the sensor support member 28 are discussed in greater detail below. In the case where the rider is stepping on the crank assembly 12, the crank body 30 experiences a slight amount of elastic deflection due to the application of the pedaling force in the rotational direction. In other words, when the rider rotates the crank assembly 12, the crank arm 14 is slightly bent according to the pedaling force from the rider. In this manner, the arm portion 42 of the crank body 30 is elastically deformed such that the pedal mounting portion 40 is deflected relative to the crank shaft mounting portion 38.

The sensor support member 28 is constructed to be applied to the pedal mounting portion The treading force of the portion 40 is deformed when applied. In particular, the sensor support member 28 is mounted to the crank body 30 such that the sensor support member 28 is elastically deformed together with the arm portion 42 of the crank body 30 when a pedaling force applied to the pedal mounting portion 40 is applied. In the first illustrated embodiment, the sensor support member 28 accurately and easily supports the power sensing device 26 within the cavity 32. In particular, the end face of one of the crank axle mounting portion 38 and the pedal mounting portion 40 includes an access bore 50 in communication with the cavity 32 of the crank body 30 for inserting the sensor support member 28 Inside the cavity 32 of the crank body 30. In the first illustrated embodiment, the access holes 50 are formed in the pedal mounting portion 40. However, the inlet and outlet holes 50 may be formed at the end faces of the crank shaft mounting portion 38. In either case, the access aperture 50 is sized relative to the sensor support member 28 such that the sensor support member 28 is mounted into the cavity 32 via the access aperture 50.

As seen in FIG. 5, the crank body 30 also includes an access hole 52 formed in the crank axle mounting portion 38 and connecting the cavity 32 to the spline hole 44. The access opening 52 constitutes a wiring passage for the wiring of the power sensing device 26 to be withdrawn from the cavity 32 of the crank body 30 and into the hollow interior of the crank axle 24. Preferably, the retaining pin 54 is used to secure the sensor support member 28 to the crank body 30 as will be described in greater detail below. Also, a plug 56 is provided to close the opening of the inlet and outlet hole 50. The crank body 30 additionally has a lateral mounting hole 58. The retaining pin 54 can be press fit into the lateral mounting aperture 58. Alternatively, the retaining pin 54 can be a bolt and the lateral mounting aperture 58 can be partially threaded for receiving the bolt to secure the sensor support member 28 within the access aperture 50.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in the first illustrated embodiment, the sensor support member 28 includes a first portion 60, a second portion 62, and an intermediate portion 64. The power sensing device 26 is supported on an intermediate portion 64 of the sensor support member 28 that is disposed between the first portion 60 and the second portion 62 of the sensor support member 28. The first portion 60 is in contact with the crank body 30 at a first position, wherein the first position corresponds to a section of the access hole 50 at the cavity 32. Preferably, the first portion 60 is bonded or pressed between the first portion 60 and the access hole 50 by the adhesive bond between the first portion 60 and the access hole 50. The connection is fixed in the access hole 50. The second portion 62 is in contact with the crank body 30 at a second position spaced longitudinally from the first position (at the access opening 50) by the intermediate portion 64 relative to the longitudinal axis of the crank body 30. In particular, the second position corresponds to the access opening 52 formed in the crank axle mounting portion 38 and connecting the cavity 32 to the spline hole 44. Preferably, the second portion 62 is formed by an adhesive bond between the second portion 62 and the access opening 52 and/or a threaded connection or press between the second portion 62 and the access opening 52. The connection is fixed in the access hole 52. With this configuration, the power sensing device 26 is supported within the cavity 32 in the intermediate region of the crank arm 14, and the first portion 60 and the second portion 62 are located at opposite longitudinal ends of the cavity 32. The sensor support member 28 is fixed in at least one of the inlet and outlet holes 50 and the inlet and outlet holes 52 such that the sensor support member 28 does not move relative to the crank body 30.

In the first illustrated embodiment, the first portion 60 is further secured within a section of the access aperture 50 by a securing pin 54. Preferably, As described above, the first portion 60 utilizes an adhesive bond between the first portion 60 and the access aperture 50 and/or a threaded or press-fit connection between the first portion 60 and the access aperture 50. The inner surface of the inlet and outlet hole 50 is closely contacted and fixed in the inlet and outlet hole 50 to ensure that the pedaling force is transmitted from the crank body 30 via the sensor support member 28 to the power sensing device 26 well and correctly. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 60 and the access aperture 50 have a circular cross-section that fits together. Thus, the securing pin 54 ensures that the power sensing device 26 has the correct orientation in the intermediate region of the crank arm 14 by using the sensor support member 28. The retaining pin 54 passes through the lateral securing aperture 60a of the first portion 60 as shown in FIG. 4 to orient the orientation of the power sensing device 26 relative to the crank body 30. The retaining pin 54 can be press fit or screwed into the lateral mounting aperture 58 of the crank body 30. Also, the lateral mounting holes 58 can be through holes or blind holes as needed and/or desired.

The second portion 62 closely contacts the inner surface of the access opening 52 to ensure that the pedaling force is well transferred from the crank body 30 to the second portion 62. The second portion 62 preferably includes a tubular section defining an internal passage for receiving electrical leads and/or flexible printed circuits (flexible printed boards). Preferably, as described above, the second portion 62 utilizes an adhesive bond between the second portion 62 and the access opening 52 and/or a threaded connection between the second portion 62 and the access opening 52. Or press-fit to closely contact the inner surface of the inlet and outlet hole 52 and be fixed in the inlet and outlet hole 52 to ensure that the pedaling force is well and correctly transmitted from the crank body 30 via the sensor support member 28 to the power sensing. Device 26. By entering and exiting holes 50 and 52 and the first and second parts The 60 and 62 are constructed such that the access holes 50 and 52 and the first and second portions 60 and 62 do not rotate relative to each other, and the fixing pin 54 can be removed. For example, at least one of the first and second portions 60 and 62 is preferably keyed or has a non-circular transverse cross-section to ensure that the sensor support member 28 is properly positioned relative to the crank body 30. Orientation.

To aid in assembly of the sensor support member 28 into the crank body 30, the second portion 62 of the sensor support member 28 has an extreme width that is equal to or less than the maximum width of the first portion 60. Similarly, the inlet and outlet holes 52 have an extremely large width equal to or smaller than the maximum width of the inlet and outlet holes 50, so that the first and second portions 60 and 62 are snugly received in the inlet and outlet holes 50 and 52. In this manner, the second portion 62 can easily pass through the access aperture 50 during insertion of the sensor support member 28 into the crank body 30 via the access aperture 50.

The power sensing device 26 includes four sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76 disposed at different angular positions relative to the longitudinal axis of the crank body 30. Preferably, as seen in FIG. 6, the intermediate portion 64 of the sensor support member 28 has a transverse cross-section that is rectangular relative to the longitudinal axis of the crank body 30. As such, the intermediate portion 64 of the sensor support member 28 defines four sides, and each of the sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76 are respectively secured to each of the four sides. The sensor elements 70 and 72 are disposed on opposite sides of the intermediate portion 64 that are parallel to the axis of rotation A of the first crank arm 14. The sensor elements 74 and 76 are disposed on opposite sides of the intermediate portion 64 that are perpendicular to the axis of rotation A of the first crank arm 14. Detection direction of four sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76 It extends in the longitudinal direction of the first crank arm 14.

Although the power sensing device 26 includes four sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76, the power sensing device 26 can be constructed to have only two of the sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76 The two sensor elements are disposed on two sides perpendicular to each other in the side of the intermediate portion 64 of the sensor support member 28. Preferably, however, sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76 are disposed on respective sides of the sides of intermediate portion 64 of sensor support member 28. The sensor elements 70, 72, 74, and 76 are formed by at least one of a strain gauge and a semiconductor sensor to detect strain of the crank arm 14.

Preferably, as seen in FIG. 5, the power sensing device 26 additionally includes a sensor element 78 disposed on the intermediate portion 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor element 78 has two sensing components configured to form a "X" or "+" shape with a pair of detection directions. Preferably, the sensor element 78 is disposed on the intermediate portion 64 such that the detection direction of the sensor element 78 intersects the longitudinal direction of the first crank arm 14 at a predetermined angle, wherein the prescribed angle is The good ground is about forty-five degrees as shown. Also, preferably, the two detection directions of the sensor element 78 are perpendicular to each other as shown. The sensor element 78 is formed by a strain gauge or semiconductor sensor to detect strain of the crank arm 14.

As seen in FIG. 4, in the first embodiment, each of the first and second crank arms 14 and 16 additionally includes a communication unit 80. It will be apparent from this disclosure that the communication unit 80 can be combined as needed and/or desired Either mounted on either of the crank arms 14 and 16 or a single communication unit on the crankshaft 24. Each of the communication units 80 has an electrical connector 82. The crank assembly 12 additionally includes a battery unit 84 that is mounted within the interior of the crankshaft 24. Battery unit 84 has a pair of electrical connectors 86 that mate with electrical connectors 82 of communication unit 80.

The communication unit 80 is electrically coupled to the power sensing device 26 using electrical conductors 90 in a conventional manner, wherein the electrical conductors 90 can be, for example, electrical conductors or flexible electrical conductor plates. The battery unit 84 supplies power to the communication unit 80. The power sensing devices 26 of the first and second crank arms 14 and 16 are operatively coupled to the communication unit 80 via electrical conductors 90 to receive signals from the power sensing device 26. Based on the signals from the power sensing device 26, the communication unit 80 outputs various desired bicycle components as needed and/or desired. Although the communication unit 80 is mounted to the crank arms 14 and 16, the communication unit 80 may be located elsewhere. Also, while the battery unit 84 is disposed within the hollow interior of the crankshaft 24 in the illustrated embodiment, the battery unit 84 can be located elsewhere.

Preferably, each of the communication units 80 includes a microprocessor and a transmitter such that the communication unit 80 wirelessly transmits information to one or more bicycle electrical components, such as the self code table 20, electronic front seen in FIG. The derailleur FD and the electronic rear derailleur RD. Alternatively, communication unit 80 can be operatively coupled to one or more of bicycle code meter 20, electronic front derailleur FR, and electronic rear derailleur RD by one or more cords.

Referring now to Figure 7, an alternative second (right) crank arm 16' in accordance with a second embodiment is shown. Basically, the second crank arm 16' replaces the figure The second crank arms 16 of the crank assembly 12 shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4. Here, the second crank arm 16' has an open cavity 36' in the form of a recess that opens on the side facing the bicycle 10 when the second crank arm 16' is mounted. The cavity 36' is constructed to closely hold the power sensing device 26 of the first embodiment. Preferably, the power sensing device 26 is non-detachably disposed in the cavity 36' by a press fit and/or a combination of an adhesive or the like. In view of the similarity between the second crank arm 16' and the second crank arm 16, the portion or part of the second crank arm 16' that is functionally identical to the portion or part of the second crank arm 16 is for the sake of brevity. Will not be discussed. Rather, the description of the portion or part of the second crank arm 16 applies to the second crank arm 16' unless explicitly stated and/or shown to be different.

Optionally, a cover member (not shown) is fixedly coupled to the crank body 34' for closing the opening of the cavity 36' and concealing the power sensing device 26. The cover member can be an integral part of the power sensing device 26 or a separate member. For example, the cavity 36' can be formed to open on the side of the crank body 34' that faces the bicycle frame such that the power sensing device 26 is obscured from being seen when mounted on the bicycle 10.

Referring now to Figures 8 and 9, an alternative first (left) crank arm 14' in accordance with a third embodiment is shown. Basically, the first crank arm 14' replaces the first crank arm 14 of the crank assembly 12 shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4. The first crank arm 14' can be used with the second crank arm 16 or the second crank arm 16'. In this third embodiment, the first crank arm 14' has a modified power sensing device 26' that is identical in construction to the power sensing device 26 discussed above, except for the modified sensor support member. 28' is used to move The force sensing device 26' is mounted to the crank body 30' of the first crank arm 14'. A power sensing device 26' is disposed within the cavity 32' of the crank body 30'.

Also, in this embodiment, the first crank arm 14' has a cover member 31' that is fixedly coupled to the crank body 30' for closing the opening of the cavity 32' and concealing the power sensing device 26' . The crank body 30' constitutes a base member, and the cover member 31' is attached to the crank body 30' (i.e., the base member) to substantially close the cavity 32'. However, it is apparent from the disclosure that the cover member 31' is not necessary. In view of the similarity between the first crank arm 14' and the first crank arm 14, the portion or part of the first crank arm 14' that is functionally identical to the portion or part of the first crank arm 14 is for the sake of brevity. Will not be discussed. Rather, the description of the portion or part of the first crank arm 14 applies to the first crank arm 14' unless explicitly stated and/or shown to be different.

As seen in Figure 9, the sensor support member 28' is secured to the inner side of the cavity 32' formed by the crank body 30' (i.e., the base member). In this embodiment of Figures 8 and 9, adhesive 54' is used to bond sensor support member 28' to the inner side of cavity 32'. Of course, the sensor support member 28' can be otherwise secured to the crank body 30' as needed and / or desired.

The power sensing device 26' includes four sensor elements 70', 72', 74', and 76' disposed at different angular positions relative to the longitudinal axis of the crank body 30'. Preferably, as seen in Figure 9, the intermediate portion of the sensor support member 28' has a tubular transverse cross-section that is rectangular relative to the longitudinal axis of the crank body 30. Each of the sensor elements 70', 72', 74', and 76' is fixed to each of the inner sides. Sensor elements 70' and 72' are Arranged on opposite inner sides of the intermediate portion parallel to the axis of rotation A of the first crank arm 14'. The sensor elements 74' and 76' are disposed on opposite inner sides of the intermediate portion that are perpendicular to the axis of rotation A of the first crank arm 14'. The detection directions of the four sensor elements 70', 72', 74', and 76' extend in the longitudinal direction of the first crank arm 14'. The configuration of the sensor elements 70', 72', 74', and 76' is the same as the first embodiment discussed above except that the middle portion of the sensor support member 28' is hollow and the sensor elements 70', 72', 74', and 76' are attached to the inner side of the intermediate portion of the sensor support member 28'.

Preferably, the power sensing device 26' additionally includes a sensor element 78' disposed on an intermediate portion of the sensor support member 28'. Preferably, the sensor element 78' is configured such that the direction of detection of the sensor element 78' intersects the longitudinal direction of the first crank arm 14' at a prescribed angle, wherein the specified angle is preferably as shown About forty-five degrees. Also, preferably, the two detection directions of the sensor element 78' are perpendicular to each other as shown. The sensor element 78' is formed by a strain gauge or semiconductor sensor to detect strain in the first crank arm 14'.

As seen in Figure 10, the first (left) crank arm 14" shown in the figures is identical to the first (left) crank arm 14' discussed above except that the power sensing device 26" is fixed to the first The crank body 30" of the crank arm 14" and the cover member 31". Here, the power sensing device 26" is attached to the crank body 30" and the cover by an adhesive 54" and a pair of bolts 55" Piece 31". The power sensing device 26" is identical to the power sensing device 26' except that the cross-sectional shape has been changed and a pair of threaded mounting holes have been attached for receiving Bolts 55". In view of the similarities between the power sensing device 26' and the power sensing device 26", portions or parts of the power sensing device 26" that are identical to portions or parts of the power sensing device 26' will The same reference numerals are given to portions or parts of the power sensing device 26', but the double 撇 superscript (") is substituted for the single 撇 superscript ('). Further, the description of the parts or parts of the power sensing device 26" which is the same as the part or the part of the power sensing device 26' will be omitted for the sake of brevity.

Referring now to Figure 11, a bicycle 100 is illustrated that includes a bicycle crank assembly 102 having a first (left) bicycle crank arm 104 and a second (right) bicycle crank arm 106. For the sake of simplicity, some of the common components of bicycle 100 will be given the same reference numerals as the same type of components of bicycle 10. Here, bicycle 100 is an athletic bicycle that includes a variety of different electrically controlled components, such as a mountain bicycle. The free ends of the bicycle crank arms 104 and 106 are each provided with a bicycle pedal 118. The rider applies a pedaling force on the bicycle pedal 118, which is then transmitted to the bicycle crank arms 104 and 106 in a conventional manner for moving the bicycle chain C to propel the bicycle 100. As will be explained below, the bicycle crank assembly 102 is provided with a bicycle input force processing device that detects the pedaling force to provide information that can be transmitted to the rider and/or can be used by a variety of different electronic components (eg, transmitted to The power of the bicycle crank assembly 102). The bicycle 100 is provided with a battery B for supplying power to various different electronic components of the bicycle 100.

As shown in FIG. 12, the bicycle 100 has a handlebar H, and the handlebar H has a control unit or bicycle code table 120, a pair of brake lever members BL-L and BL- R, and a pair of electronic shifters 122A and 122B. Preferably, battery B supplies power to electronic shifters 122A and 122B. The bicycle code table 120 may have its own power source (preferably built-in) or may receive power from the battery B. The electronic shifters 122A and 122B form a shift command unit that is electrically coupled to the bicycle code table 120 for providing shift information to the bicycle code table 120 in response to operation of the electronic shifters 122A and 122B. The electronic shifter 122A is electrically connected to the electronic rear derailleur RD (Fig. 11), and the electronic shifter 122B is electrically connected to the electronic front derailleur FD (Fig. 11). Of course, electronic shifter 122A can be electrically coupled to electronic front derailleur FD if needed and/or desired, and electronic shifter 122B can be electrically coupled to electronic rear derailleur RD. Electronic shifters are known in the bicycle field, so electronic shifters 122A and 122B will not be discussed and/or shown in detail herein.

As will be explained below, the bicycle crank assembly 102 is operatively coupled to the bicycle code table 120 for providing information (e.g., power transmitted to the bicycle crank assembly 102) to the bicycle code table 120. The bicycle crank assembly 102 can be wired to the bicycle code table 120 or can be wirelessly communicated with the bicycle code table 120 as needed and/or desired.

The first end portion of the right crank arm 106 includes a shaft mounting opening 106a (Fig. 13) for mounting the right crank arm 106 to the crank axle 124, and the second end portion of the right crank arm 106 is included for mounting The pedal of one of the pedals 118 mounts the opening 106b. Three sprocket wheels are attached to the right crank arm 106. The first end portion of the left crank arm 104 includes a shaft mounting opening 104a for mounting the left crank arm 104 to the crank axle 124, and the left side curve The second end portion of the handle arm 104 includes a pedal mounting opening 104b for mounting the pedal 118. The front derailleur FD selectively engages the chain C with one of the three front sprockets and is movable by a motor (not shown) controlled by the bicycle code meter 120. Similarly, the rear derailleur RD selectively engages the chain C with one of the plurality of rear sprockets and is movable by a motor (not shown) controlled by the bicycle code meter 120.

As shown in FIG. 12, the bicycle code table 120 includes a box-shaped casing 120a. The display unit 120b, the power switch 120c, and the mode switch 120d are disposed on the upper surface of the housing 120a. Electronic shifters 122A and 122B are used to transmit commands to operate the shifting of the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD, respectively. Preferably, the bicycle code table 120 is coupled to the rear and front derailleurs RD and FD by a connector unit disposed at the battery B (Fig. 11).

As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the first circuit mounting opening 106c is formed at the lateral inner side surface 106d of the crank arm 106, and the second circuit mounting opening 106e is formed at the lateral outer side surface 106f of the crank arm 106. The first circuit mounting opening 106c and the second circuit mounting opening 106e respectively include bottom plate portions 106g and 106h such that the first circuit mounting opening 106c and the second circuit mounting opening 106e are formed as recesses in the lateral inner side surface 106d and the lateral outer side surface 106f, respectively. .

The term "inside" as used herein refers to the side of the crank arm that faces the bicycle frame when the crank arm is attached to the bicycle, and the "outer side" refers to the side of the crank arm that faces the bicycle frame, and the "upper side" refers to The crank arm is generally horizontally positioned with the outer side of the crank arm facing the viewer and the shaft mounting opening on the left side When the ground is oriented, the crank arm faces the upper side, and the "lower side" refers to the crank arm facing downward when the crank arm is oriented generally horizontally on the outer side of the crank arm toward the viewer and the shaft mounting opening is on the left side. side.

The first circuit mounting structure 130 is disposed within the first circuit mounting opening 106c. The second circuit mounting structure 134 is disposed within the second circuit mounting opening 106e. The first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 are constructed such that respective measuring plates 138 (Figs. 14 and 15) are detachably mounted to the crank arms 106 at the first and second circuit mounting openings 106c and 106e, respectively. The first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 can be formed as a one-piece structure that is continuous with the crank arms 106, or the first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 can be welded or otherwise bonded or tight A separate structure that is fixed to the crank arm 106. In the embodiment of Figure 13, the first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 are constructed as cylindrical posts or some other form of projection or ridge. Preferably, but not necessarily, the first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 may include additional circuit mounting openings 130a and 134a, and the circuit mounting openings 130a and 134a include additional circuitry in the form of threads 130b and 134b. Installation structure. In other words, the first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 can be formed as threaded nuts.

As shown in FIG. 15, the measurement plate 138 can include a substrate 142 having a top surface 142a and a bottom surface 142b, a sensor 146 disposed at the top surface 142a for measuring input force, electrically connected to the sense via the wire 154. The electrical connector 150 of the detector 146 and a pair of mounting openings 158 in the form of through holes. The substrate 142 can be a printed circuit board or a semiconductor, Metal, or other conductive or non-conductive rigid or flexible sheet. In this embodiment, the sensor 146 includes a strain gauge that can be attached to or formed as part of the substrate 142 (eg, a plurality of resistors constructed as a Wheatstone bridge) . The sensor 146 can be formed, at least in part, from a semiconductor material to detect strain on the substrate 142. Of course, the configuration of the other sensors 146 and substrate 142 can be easily understood depending on the materials used.

As shown in Figure 14, each of the measuring plates 138 can be removably mounted to a respective one of the first or second circuit mounting structures 130 or 134 using threaded fasteners, such as screws 162, wherein the screws 162 are Extending through the mounting opening 158 of the substrate 142 and into a respective one of the first or second circuit mounting structures 130 or 134. If desired, the first and second circuit mounting openings 106c and 106e can have stepped portions 106i and 106j such that the measuring plate 138 is disposed within one of its respective mounting openings 106c and 106e and the measuring plate 138 The bottom surface 142b is flush with the inner side surface 106d and the outer side surface 106f of its respective crank arm 106. As shown in FIG. 13, when the measuring board 138 is not mounted to a corresponding one of the first or second circuit mounting openings 106c or 106e, the detachable cover member 166 may cover the first and second circuit mounting openings 106c and 106e. . In this embodiment, the mounting openings 106c and 106e can be sealed by their respective measuring plates 138.

As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the first circuit mounting opening 104c is formed at the lateral inner side surface 104d of the crank arm 104, and the second circuit mounting opening 104e is formed at the lateral outer side surface of the crank arm 104. 104f. The first circuit mounting opening 104c and the second circuit mounting opening 104e respectively include bottom plate portions 104g and 104h such that the first circuit mounting opening 104c and the second circuit mounting opening 104e are formed as recesses in the lateral inner side surface 104d and the lateral outer side surface 104f, respectively. . The crank arm 104 includes two first circuit mounting structures 170 disposed within the first circuit mounting opening 104c. The crank arm 104 includes two second circuit mounting structures 174 that are disposed within the second circuit mounting opening 104e. However, each of the first and second circuit mounting structures 170 and 174 can be formed as a one-piece structure that is continuous with the crank arm 104, or the first and second circuit mounting structures 170 and 174 can be fused or otherwise The manner is combined or fastened to the separate structure of the crank arm 104. In this embodiment, as with the first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134 of the crank arm 106, the first and second circuit mounting structures 170 and 174 are constructed as cylindrical posts or some other form of protrusion. The portions or ridges have additional circuit mounting openings 170a and 174a, and the circuit mounting openings 170a and 174a contain additional circuit mounting structures in the form of threads 170b and 174b.

As shown in FIG. 14, the first circuit mounting structure 170 is constructed to detachably mount the measuring plate 178 (FIG. 16) to the lateral inner side surface 104d of the crank arm 104 at the first circuit mounting opening 104c. Likewise, the second circuit mounting structure 174 is constructed to removably mount the previously described measuring plate 138 to the lateral outer side surface 104f of the crank arm 104 at the second circuit mounting opening 104e.

As shown in FIG. 16, the measurement plate 178 can include a substrate 182 having a top surface 182a and a bottom surface 182b disposed at the top surface 182a. A sensor 186 for measuring input force, a control and communication member 190 mounted to the bottom surface 182b, and a pair of mounting openings 194 in the form of through holes. A similar through hole (not shown) aligned with the mounting opening 194 on the right side is provided to the control and communication component 190. Control and communication component 190 includes a housing 190a and a control and communication circuit 192 internal to housing 190a. The housing 190a may be made of resin to facilitate transmission of electromagnetic waves. The control and communication component 190 can be disposed on the top surface 182a of the substrate 182, in which case the substrate 182 or crank arm 104 can be made of a non-metallic material, or the control and communication component 190 can be disposed at the bottom of the substrate 182. On surface 182b.

Like the measurement plate 138, the substrate 182 can be a printed circuit board or a semiconductor that is a metal or other electrically or non-conductive rigid or flexible sheet. The sensor 186 includes a strain gauge (eg, a plurality of resistors constructed as a Wheatstone bridge) that can be attached to or formed as part of the substrate 182. The sensor 186 can be formed, at least in part, from a semiconductor material to detect strain on the substrate 182. Sensor 186 is operatively coupled to control and communication component 190 via wiring 198 and electrical connector 202 is electrically coupled to control and communication component 190 via wiring 206. Wirings 198 and 206 pass through vias 193 of substrate 182.

The control and communication circuit 192 preferably includes a microprocessor that is programmed to calculate the force or power applied to the crank arms 104 and 106 based on signals received from the sensors 146 and 186 in a known manner. Control and communication circuit 192 also includes transmitter 192a for sensing signal and/or calculation The resulting data is transmitted to the bicycle code table 120 in a wired or wireless manner.

As shown in FIG. 14, the measuring plate 178 can be detachably mounted to the first circuit mounting structure 170 using threaded fasteners, such as screws 162, wherein the screws 162 extend through the mounting opening 194 of the substrate 182 (and also through In the aligned opening of the control and communication component 190) and into the first circuit mounting structure 170. Also, the measuring plate 138 can be detachably mounted to the second circuit mounting structure 174 using threaded fasteners, such as screws 162, wherein the screws 162 extend through the mounting opening 158 of the substrate 142 and to the second as shown. The circuit is mounted within structure 174. If desired, the first and second circuit mounting openings 104c and 104e can have stepped portions 104i and 104j, respectively, such that the measuring plates 178 and 138 are disposed within their respective mounting openings 104c and 104e, and the measuring plate 178 The respective bottom surfaces 182b and 142b of the and 138 are flush with the inner side surface 104d and the outer side surface 104f of the respective crank arms 104. As shown in FIG. 13, when the measuring plate 178 or 138 is not mounted at a corresponding one of the first or second circuit mounting openings 104c or 104e, the detachable cover member 166 may cover the first and second circuits. The openings 104c and 104e are mounted.

As shown in Figures 13 and 14, a first wiring harness 210 is at least partially disposed within the hollow chamber 214 of the crank arm 106, and the second wiring harness 218 is at least partially disposed on the crank. The hollow chamber 222 of the arm 104 is inside. The first wiring harness 210 includes a wiring bundle 226, a first electrical connector 230, a second electrical connector 234, and a third electrical connector 238. In this embodiment, the first electrical connector 230 is rigidly mounted to the bottom plate portion 106g of the first circuit mounting opening 106c. The first circuit mounting opening 106c is exposed, and the second electrical connector 234 is rigidly mounted to the bottom plate portion 106h of the second circuit mounting opening 106e to be exposed to the second circuit mounting opening 106e. The electrical connector 150 of the measuring board 138 at the first circuit mounting opening 106c is connected to the first electrical connector 230, and the electrical connector 150 of the measuring board 138 at the second circuit mounting opening 106e is connected to the second Electrical connector 234. If desired, the first electrical connector 230 and the second electrical connector 234 can form the first and second circuit mounting structures separately or in combination with the respective first and second circuit mounting structures 130 and 134. The first and second circuit mounting structures, particularly if one or both of the electrical connectors 150 are rigidly mounted to their respective substrates 142. The hollow chamber 214, the first circuit mounting opening 106c, and the second circuit mounting opening 106e may be in fluid communication with one another (ie, forming a continuous opening).

Similarly, the second wiring harness 218 includes a wiring harness 242, a first electrical connector 246, a second electrical connector 250, and a third electrical connector 254. In this embodiment, the first electrical connector 246 is rigidly mounted to the bottom plate portion 104g of the first circuit mounting opening 104c to be exposed to the first circuit mounting opening 104c, and the second electrical connector 250 is rigidly mounted to the first The bottom plate portion 104h of the two circuit mounting opening 104e is exposed to the second circuit mounting opening 104e. The electrical connector 202 of the measuring board 178 at the first circuit mounting opening 104c is connected to the first electrical connector 246, and the electrical connector 150 of the measuring board 138 at the second circuit mounting opening 104e is connected to the second Electrical connector 250. If desired, the first electrical connector 246 and the second electrical connector 250 can form the first and second circuit mounting structures separately, or The first and second circuit mounting structures are formed in combination with their respective first and second circuit mounting structures 170 and 174, particularly if the electrical connector 202 is rigidly mounted to its respective substrate 182 and/or if electrically connected The device 150 is rigidly mounted to its respective substrate 142. The hollow chamber 222, the first circuit mounting opening 104c, and the second circuit mounting opening 104e may be in fluid communication with one another (ie, forming a continuous opening).

As shown in FIGS. 14 and 17, a power source such as a battery unit 258 is disposed within the hollow chamber 262 of the crankshaft 124. Battery unit 258 includes a cylindrical battery housing 266 that houses a plurality of individual battery cells (not shown). The first electrical connector 270 is coupled to the battery housing 266 via a wire 274. The second electrical connector 278 is coupled to the battery housing 266 via a wire 282 . The first electrical connector 270 is coupled to the third electrical connector 238 of the first wiring harness 210 for communicating operational power to the first and second circuit mounting openings 106c and 106e of the right crank arm 106. A measuring plate 138, and a sensor signal for sensing the sensors 146 from the measuring plates 138 at the first and second circuit mounting openings 106c and 106e are communicated through a bypass connection in the battery housing 266 (not shown) ). A second electrical connector 278 is coupled to the third electrical connector 254 of the second wiring harness 218 for communicating operational power to the first and second circuit mounting openings 104c and 104e of the left crank arm 104. Measuring plates 178 and 138, and sensor signals for sensing 146 from measuring plates 138 at first and second circuit mounting openings 106c and 106e of right crank arm 106 are communicated to control and communication component 190. . The wiring harness 218 will also come from the sensor on the measuring board 138 at the second circuit mounting opening 104e of the left crank arm 104. The sensor signal of 146 is communicated to control and communication component 190.

The sensor mounting configuration disclosed herein has many uses. For example, as shown in FIG. 18, a driving torque F _θ can be mounted on the upper and lower side surfaces 106m and 106n of the crank arm 106 by placing the measuring plate 138 (or 178) as shown. The sensor mounted on the upper side surface 106m detects the stretch (shown by the arrow) and the sensor mounted on the lower side surface 106n detects the compression and is detected and processed. As shown in Fig. 19, an out-of-plane force F _Z can be mounted on the lateral inner and outer surfaces 106d and 106f of the crank arm 106 by placing the measuring plate 138 (or 178) as shown. The sensor that is mounted on the inside surface 106d detects the compression and is detected and stretched by the sensor mounted on the outside surface 106f (or vice versa) to be detected and processed. As shown in Fig. 20, the force F _r directed radially outward along the longitudinal axis of the crank arm 106 can be mounted on the upper and lower side surfaces 106m of the crank arm 106 by placing the measuring plate 138 (or 178) as shown. The sensor is detected and processed on the 106n so that the sensor mounted on the upper side surface 106m detects the stretch and the sensor mounted on the lower side surface 106n detects the stretch. As shown in Fig. 21, a torsional moment force M (caused by the pedal shaft 286) can be mounted diagonally on the lateral direction of the crank arm 106 by placing the measuring plate 138 (or 178) as shown. The outer surface 106f is detected and processed by detecting a diagonally oriented tensile force.

Alternatively, although the first and second wiring harnesses 210 and 218 are disposed in the hollow chambers 214 and 222 of the crank arms 106 and 104, respectively, the first and second wiring harnesses 210 and 218 may be directly Molded into corresponding The second and first crank arms 106 and 104 are inside. Alternatively, the first and second wiring harnesses 210 and 218 may be partially or entirely disposed outside of the second and first crank arms 106 and 104, and the connectors 150 and 202 need not be rigidly attached thereto. The respective circuit mounts the bottom plate portion of the opening. Likewise, battery unit 258 can be disposed partially or entirely external to crankshaft 124.

The circuit mounting openings 106c, 106e, 104c, 104e may be omitted, and the measuring boards 138 and/or 178 may be mounted to a circuit mounting structure such as a ridge, a circuit mounting provided in a circuit mounting opening on the side of the crank arm A structure (for example, a thread), a circuit mounting structure provided at a connector mounted to the crank arm, or the like. Although the measurement plates 138 and/or 178 are mounted to the right crank arm 106 and/or the left crank arm 104, the measurement plates 138 and/or 178 can be mounted to any sprocket mounted that is disposed associated with the right crank arm 106. A circuit mounting structure 290 (Fig. 19) on the arm (spider arm) 294 with or without corresponding recesses. While the measurement plates 138 and 178 are shown as having one sensor 146 and 186, respectively, the measurement plates 138 and 178 can each include a plurality of sensors.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to exemplify the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Different changes and corrections. For example, the size, shape, location, or orientation of the various components can be varied as desired and/or desired as long as the effects or functions that it is intended to achieve are not substantially altered. The components that are shown to be directly connected or in contact with each other may have an intermediate structure disposed therebetween. in case The function or function of one element may not be changed substantially, and the function of one element may be implemented by two elements as needed and/or desired, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment can be employed in another embodiment. All advantageous points need not be presented simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each distinct feature that is different from the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's additional invention, including structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. Therefore, the above description of the embodiments of the present invention is intended to be illustrative only and not to limit the invention as defined by the scope of the appended claims.

10‧‧‧Bicycle

12‧‧‧ crank assembly

14‧‧‧first (left) crank arm

14’‧‧‧first (left) crank arm

14”‧‧‧first (left) crank arm

16‧‧‧second (right) crank arm

16’‧‧‧second (right) crank arm

18‧‧‧ bicycle pedal

20‧‧‧Bicycle code table

22A‧‧‧Electronic shifter

22B‧‧‧Electronic shifter

24‧‧‧ crankshaft

26‧‧‧Power sensing device

26'‧‧‧Power sensing device

26”‧‧‧Power sensing device

28‧‧‧Sensor support member

28'‧‧‧Sensor support member

30‧‧‧ crank body

30’‧‧‧ crank body

30”‧‧‧ crank body

31’‧‧‧Cleaning pieces

31"‧‧‧Cleaning pieces

32‧‧‧ Cavity

32’‧‧‧ Cavity

34‧‧‧ crank body

34’‧‧‧ crank body

36‧‧‧ Cavity

36’‧‧‧ Cavity

38‧‧‧ crank shaft mounting part

40‧‧‧ pedal installation

42‧‧‧arms

44‧‧‧Spline hole

48‧‧‧Threaded holes

50‧‧‧In and out

52‧‧‧In and out holes

54‧‧‧fixed pin

54’‧‧‧Adhesive

54”‧‧‧Adhesive

55"‧‧‧ bolts

56‧‧‧ Plug

58‧‧‧Horizontal mounting holes

60‧‧‧ first part

60a‧‧‧ transverse fixing holes

62‧‧‧ second part

64‧‧‧ middle part

70‧‧‧Sensor components

70'‧‧‧ sensor components

72‧‧‧Sensor components

72'‧‧‧ sensor components

74‧‧‧Sensor components

74'‧‧‧ Sensor components

76‧‧‧Sensor components

76'‧‧‧ sensor components

78‧‧‧Sensor components

78'‧‧‧Sensor components

80‧‧‧Communication unit

82‧‧‧Electrical connector

84‧‧‧ battery unit

86‧‧‧Electrical connector

90‧‧‧Electrical conductor

100‧‧‧ bicycle

102‧‧‧ crank assembly

104‧‧‧First (left) crank arm

104a‧‧‧Axis mounting opening

104b‧‧‧ pedal mounting opening

104c‧‧‧First circuit mounting opening

104d‧‧‧lateral inside surface

104e‧‧‧Second circuit mounting opening

104f‧‧‧ lateral lateral surface

104g‧‧‧ bottom plate

104h‧‧‧ bottom plate

104i‧‧‧ stepped part

104j‧‧‧stepped part

106‧‧‧second (right) crank arm

106a‧‧‧Axis mounting opening

106b‧‧‧ pedal mounting opening

106c‧‧‧First circuit mounting opening

106d‧‧‧lateral inside surface

106e‧‧‧Second circuit mounting opening

106f‧‧‧ lateral lateral surface

106g‧‧‧ bottom plate

106h‧‧‧ bottom plate

106i‧‧‧stepped part

106j‧‧‧ stepped part

106m‧‧‧ upper surface

106n‧‧‧lower surface

118‧‧‧ bicycle pedal

120‧‧‧Control unit or bicycle code table

120a‧‧‧Box-shaped housing

120b‧‧‧Display unit

120c‧‧‧Power switch

120d‧‧‧ mode switch

122A‧‧‧Electronic shifter

122B‧‧‧Electronic shifter

124‧‧‧ crankshaft

130‧‧‧First circuit mounting structure

130a‧‧‧Circuit mounting opening

130b‧‧ thread

134‧‧‧Second circuit mounting structure

134a‧‧‧Circuit mounting opening

134b‧‧ thread

138‧‧‧Measurement board

142‧‧‧Substrate

142a‧‧‧ top surface

142b‧‧‧ bottom surface

146‧‧‧ sensor

150‧‧‧Electrical connector

154‧‧‧ wiring

158‧‧‧Installation opening

162‧‧‧ screws

166‧‧‧Cover parts

170‧‧‧First circuit mounting structure

170a‧‧‧Circuit mounting opening

170b‧‧ thread

174‧‧‧Second circuit mounting structure

174a‧‧‧Circuit mounting opening

174b‧‧ thread

178‧‧‧Measurement board

182‧‧‧Substrate

182a‧‧‧ top surface

182b‧‧‧ bottom surface

186‧‧‧ sensor

190‧‧‧Control and communication components

190a‧‧‧Shell

192‧‧‧Control and communication circuits

192a‧‧‧transmitter

193‧‧‧through hole

194‧‧‧Installation opening

198‧‧‧ wiring

202‧‧‧Electrical connector

206‧‧‧ wiring

210‧‧‧First wiring harness

214‧‧‧ hollow room

218‧‧‧Second wiring harness

222‧‧‧ hollow room

226‧‧‧Wiring harness

230‧‧‧First electrical connector

234‧‧‧Second electrical connector

238‧‧‧ Third electrical connector

242‧‧‧Wiring harness

246‧‧‧First electrical connector

250‧‧‧Second electrical connector

254‧‧‧ Third electrical connector

258‧‧‧ battery unit

262‧‧‧ hollow room

266‧‧‧ battery case

270‧‧‧First electrical connector

274‧‧‧ wiring

278‧‧‧Second electrical connector

282‧‧‧ wiring

286‧‧‧ pedal shaft

290‧‧‧Circuit mounting structure

294‧‧‧Sprocket mounting arm (spider arm)

A‧‧‧ axis of rotation

B‧‧‧Battery

BL-L‧‧‧ brake lever

BL-R‧‧‧ brake lever

C‧‧‧Bicycle chain

FD‧‧‧Electronic front derailleur

F _r ‧‧‧ force

F _Z ‧‧‧Out of plane force

F _θ ‧‧‧ drive torque

H‧‧‧handlebar

M‧‧‧The force of torsional moment

RD‧‧‧Electronic rear derailleur

S1‧‧‧Sprocket

S2‧‧‧Sprocket

1 is a side view of a bicycle equipped with an electrically controlled bicycle assembly and a bicycle crank assembly having a pair of bicycle crank arms according to the first embodiment.

2 is a perspective view of the bicycle handlebar and handlebar mounting assembly of FIG. 1.

3 is a perspective view of the bicycle crank assembly shown in FIG. 1.

4 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle crank assembly shown in FIGS. 1 and 3.

Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the left bicycle crank arm of Figures 1, 3, and 4 with the power sensing device disassembled out of the left bicycle crank arm.

Figure 6 is a simplified transverse cross-sectional view of the left bicycle crank arm as seen along section line 6-6 of Figure 4.

Figure 7 is an inside side view of an alternative right bicycle crank arm in accordance with a second embodiment.

Figure 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an alternative left bicycle crank arm in accordance with a third embodiment.

Figure 9 is a simplified transverse cross-sectional view of the left bicycle crank arm as seen along section line 9-9 of Figure 8.

10 is a simplified transverse cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 9 of an alternative configuration of the left bicycle crank arm of FIG.

Figure 11 is a side elevational view of a bicycle equipped with an electrically controlled bicycle assembly and a bicycle crank assembly in accordance with a fourth embodiment.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the bicycle handlebar and handlebar mounting assembly of Figure 11;

Figure 13 is a schematic illustration of the bicycle crank assembly of Figure 11 with the bicycle crank assembly having a pair of bicycle crank arms and a crank axle.

14 is another schematic illustration of an alternative bicycle crank assembly for use with the bicycle of FIG. 11, wherein the bicycle crank assembly has a measuring plate mounted to each of the crank arms and a power source mounted to the crank shaft.

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of one of the measuring plates shown in Figure 14.

16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a measurement board with attached control and communication circuitry.

Figure 17 is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of a power supply.

Fig. 18 is a schematic view showing a configuration of a measuring plate for measuring driving torque.

Figure 19 is a schematic illustration of a measurement plate configuration for measuring the force out of the plane Figure.

Figure 20 is a schematic illustration of a measurement plate configuration for measuring radial forces.

Figure 21 is a schematic illustration of a configuration of a measuring plate for measuring the force of a torsional moment.

14‧‧‧first (left) crank arm

16‧‧‧second (right) crank arm

24‧‧‧ crankshaft

26‧‧‧Power sensing device

28‧‧‧Sensor support member

30‧‧‧ crank body

32‧‧‧ Cavity

34‧‧‧ crank body

36‧‧‧ Cavity

38‧‧‧ crank shaft mounting part

40‧‧‧ pedal installation

42‧‧‧arms

44‧‧‧Spline hole

48‧‧‧Threaded holes

50‧‧‧In and out

52‧‧‧In and out holes

54‧‧‧fixed pin

80‧‧‧Communication unit

82‧‧‧Electrical connector

84‧‧‧ battery unit

86‧‧‧Electrical connector

90‧‧‧Electrical conductor

A‧‧‧ axis of rotation

S1‧‧‧Sprocket

S2‧‧‧Sprocket

Claims (20)

A bicycle crank arm comprising: a crank body including a crank shaft mounting portion and a pedal mounting portion; a sensor support member that is a member separate from the crank body and disposed in a cavity of the crank body and Attached to the crank body; and a power sensing device supported on the sensor support member. The bicycle crank arm of claim 1, wherein the sensor support member is non-detachably fixed to the crank body. The bicycle crank arm according to claim 1, wherein the sensor support member is constructed to be deformed when a pedaling force applied to the pedal mounting portion is applied. The bicycle crank arm according to claim 1, wherein an end surface of one of the crank shaft mounting portion and the pedal mounting portion includes an access hole communicating with the cavity of the pedal body, the access hole being opposite The sensor support member is sized such that the sensor support member is mounted into the cavity via the access aperture. The bicycle crank arm of claim 4, wherein the sensor support member comprises a first portion that is secured within a section of the access opening. The bicycle crank arm of claim 5, wherein the sensor support member comprises a second portion having a maximum equal to or less than the first portion of the sensor support member The maximum width of the width. The bicycle crank arm according to claim 1, wherein The sensor support member includes a first portion that contacts the crank body at a first position, and a second position that is longitudinally spaced from the first position relative to a longitudinal axis of the crank body and The second part of the crank body contact. The bicycle crank arm of claim 7, wherein the power sensing device is supported by the sensing between the first portion and the second portion of the sensor support member. On the middle portion of the support member. The bicycle crank arm of claim 1, wherein the power sensing device comprises a plurality of sensor elements disposed at different angular positions relative to a longitudinal axis of the crank body. The bicycle crank arm of claim 8, wherein the intermediate portion of the sensor support member has a lateral cross section that is rectangular with respect to the longitudinal axis of the crank body to define four sides, and the dynamic feeling The measuring device includes a plurality of sensor elements disposed on at least two mutually perpendicular sides of the sides of the intermediate portion of the sensor support member. The bicycle crank arm of claim 10, wherein the plurality of sensor elements are disposed on each of the sides of the intermediate portion of the sensor support member. The bicycle crank arm of claim 11, wherein The plurality of sensor elements are formed by at least one of a strain gauge and a semiconductor sensor for detecting strain. The bicycle crank arm of claim 1, wherein the crank body includes a base member and a cover member attached to the base member to substantially close the cavity. The bicycle crank arm of claim 1, wherein the sensor support member is fixed to an inner side of the cavity of the crank body. The bicycle crank arm of claim 14, wherein the crank body includes a base member and a cover member attached to the base member to substantially close the cavity. The bicycle crank arm of claim 15, wherein the sensor support member is fixed to the inner side of the cavity of the crank body formed by the base member. The bicycle crank arm of claim 1, further comprising: a communication unit operatively coupled to the power sensing device for receiving signals from the power sensing device and according to the power sensing device The signal is output and the information is output. The bicycle crank arm according to claim 17, wherein The communication unit wirelessly transmits the information. A bicycle crank assembly comprising the bicycle crank arm according to claim 17, wherein the bicycle crank assembly further comprises: a crank shaft having a first end fixed to the crank shaft mounting portion; An additional bicycle crank arm including an additional crank body secured to the second end of the crank axle, a member separate from the crank body and having an additional feel disposed within the cavity of the additional crank body A detector support member, and an additional power sensing device supported on the additional sensor support member and operatively coupled to the communication unit. The bicycle crank assembly of claim 19, further comprising: a battery unit disposed in the crankshaft and electrically connected to the communication unit.