TWI732191B - Bicycle electrical component - Google Patents

Abstract

A bicycle electrical component is basically provided with a wireless communication unit, a movable member, an electrical actuation unit and a support structure. The wireless communication unit includes a first housing and a wireless communication member that is contained within the first housing. The electrical actuation unit includes a second housing and an electrical actuator that is contained within the second housing. The electrical actuator is configured to actuate the movable member. The second housing is different from the first housing. The support structure detachably supports the wireless communication unit to the bicycle electrical component.

Description

Bicycle electrical components [Cross-reference of related applications]

The present invention is a partial continuation of the patent application No. 14/879,405 filed on October 9, 2015. The entire disclosure of Patent Application No. 14/879,405 is hereby incorporated by reference.

The present invention generally relates to bicycle electrical components. More specifically, the present invention relates to a bicycle electric component having a wireless communication unit, and the wireless communication unit is detachably supported on the bicycle electric component.

In recent years, some bicycles are equipped with electrical components or devices to make it easier for riders to operate the bicycle. In more recent years, there have been bicycle control systems that wirelessly control these bicycle electrical components or devices. The advantage of the bicycle wireless system is that the electrical cable connecting the bicycle electrical components to each other can be omitted. Examples of some of these bicycle electrical components include suspensions, transmission devices (for example, derailleurs, inner gear hubs, etc.), and seatposts. Typically, a bicycle equipped with an electric bicycle component is also equipped with a battery to supply electric power to the bicycle electric component.

Generally, the present disclosure relates to various features or components of a bicycle electric component. The bicycle electric component has a wireless communication unit that is detachably supported on the bicycle electric component.

In view of the currently known technology and according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, a bicycle electric assembly is provided, which basically includes a wireless communication unit, a movable member, an electric actuation unit, and a supporting structure. The wireless communication unit includes a first housing and a wireless communication component contained in the first housing. The electric actuation unit includes a second casing and an electric actuator contained in the second casing. The electric actuator is constructed to actuate the movable member. The second housing is different from the first housing. The supporting structure detachably supports the wireless communication unit on the bicycle electric component.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the first aspect is constructed such that the support structure is provided on at least one of the first housing and the second housing.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the second aspect is constructed such that the support structure includes a first snap-fit structure and a second snap-fit structure that detachably engages the first snap-fit structure. The first buckling structure is arranged on the first housing.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the third aspect is constructed such that one of the first fastening structure and the second fastening structure includes a latch, and the first fastening structure and the second fastening structure The other of the combined structure includes a catch.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the second aspect is constructed such that the support structure includes a recess in which the first housing is to be supported, and the recess is formed on the second housing.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the fifth aspect is constructed such that the movable member includes a chain guide operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit to position the chain guide at the first position and the second position. Move between the two positions; and the second housing has a surface facing the frame, and the surface facing the frame has a depression. The surface facing the bicycle frame is constructed to face the bicycle frame under the state where the bicycle electrical components are mounted on the bicycle frame.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the second aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes at least one of an electrical port and a cable, which is disposed at the first housing.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the seventh aspect is constructed to call the actuation unit including at least one electrical port, which is provided at the second housing. At least one electric port of the electric actuation unit is constructed to be electrically connected to at least one of the electric port and the cable of the wireless communication unit.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the first aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes an electrical connector, and the electrical actuation unit includes at least one electrical port, which is constructed to form an electrical connection to the wireless communication unit. Connecting pieces.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the ninth aspect is constructed to call the at least one electrical port of the actuation unit is constructed to connect the electrical connector of the wireless communication unit with the at least one electrical port of the electrical actuation unit It is selectively connected to the cable when disconnected.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the ninth aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes at least one electrical port, which is constructed to be connected to the cable.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the eleventh aspect is constructed such that the electrical connector of the wireless communication unit is constructed as an electrical port connected to the electrical actuation unit in the first connection direction, and the wireless The electrical port of the communication unit is constructed to be connected to the cable in a second connection direction different from the first connection direction.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twelfth aspect is constructed such that the first connection direction is perpendicular to the second connection direction.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the eleventh aspect is constructed to call the at least one electrical port of the actuation unit and the at least one electrical port of the wireless communication unit to have the same electrical connector mating structure.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the ninth aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes at least one of an electrical port and a cable, which is provided at the first housing.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the fifteenth aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes a cap that is removably coupled to the first housing to selectively cover At least one electrical port provided at the first housing.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the ninth aspect is constructed such that the movable member includes a chain guide that is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit to position the chain guide in the first position And the second position; and the bicycle electric component further includes a base member, which is constructed to support the electric actuation unit and the chain guide. At least one electric port of the electric actuation unit is formed between the base member and the second housing of the electric actuation unit.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the second aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes a first electrical contact, and the electrical actuation unit includes a second electrical contact, which is constructed in the first housing The body electrically contacts the first electrical contact in a state where the body is attached to the second housing.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electric assembly according to the eighteenth aspect is constructed so that one of the wireless communication unit and the electric actuation unit includes a seal, which is constructed so that the first housing is attached to the first housing Surrounding the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact in the state of the two shells.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the eighteenth aspect further includes a cover, which is constructed so that the first electrical contact of the wireless communication unit is removed from the second electrical contact The time cover is arranged on the second electrical contact on the second housing.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the first aspect is constructed such that the movable member includes a chain guide, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit to position the chain guide at the first Move between the position and the second position; and the bicycle electric component further includes a base member, which is constructed to support the electric actuation unit and the chain guide. The support structure is formed between the base member and the second housing of the actuation unit.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-first aspect is constructed such that the support structure includes a space formed between the base member and the second housing of the electric actuation unit. The first housing is constructed to be inserted into the space.

According to the twenty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-second aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes a first electrical contact, and the electrical actuation unit includes a second electrical contact, which is constructed in The first housing electrically contacts the first electrical contact in a state where the first housing is disposed in the space.

According to the twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-third aspect is constructed such that the second electrical contact is provided on the connection surface facing the insertion direction of the first housing into the space.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the first aspect is constructed so that the support structure includes a second space formed in the second housing of the electric actuation unit. The first housing is configured to be inserted into the second space.

According to the twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-fifth aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit includes a first electrical contact that is provided on the first housing, and the electrical actuation unit includes a The second electrical contact is arranged inside the second space and is constructed to electrically contact the first electrical contact in a state where the first housing is arranged in the second space.

According to the twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-sixth aspect is constructed such that the second housing includes a covering member configured to close the opening of the second space.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-seventh aspect is constructed to call the actuation unit including a sealing member configured to seal the second housing in a state where the cover member closes the opening. Surround the interface between the opening and the covering member.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the first aspect further includes a power supply unit and a power supply bracket. The power supply unit is constructed to supply power to the electric actuation unit. The power supply bracket is constructed to mount the power supply unit to the bicycle electrical assembly. The power supply bracket is constructed as a supporting structure to support the wireless communication unit to the bicycle electrical component.

According to a thirtieth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-ninth aspect is constructed such that the first housing is constructed to be detachably supported by the power supply bracket.

According to the thirty-first aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-ninth aspect is constructed so that the power supply bracket is constructed to accommodate the wireless communication member.

According to a thirty-second aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-ninth aspect is constructed such that the first housing is constructed to be detachably supported by the power supply unit.

According to the thirty-third aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical assembly according to the twenty-ninth aspect is constructed so that the power supply unit is constructed to accommodate the wireless communication member.

According to the thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-ninth aspect is constructed such that the power supply unit includes at least one of an electrical port and a cable.

According to a thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the thirty-fourth aspect is constructed to call the actuation unit including at least one electrical port, which is provided at the second housing.

According to the thirty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the twenty-ninth aspect is constructed such that the power supply bracket includes a third contact, and the power supply unit includes a fourth contact, which is constructed in the power supply unit The third contact is electrically connected in the state of being installed to the power supply bracket.

According to the thirty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electric assembly according to the twenty-ninth aspect further includes a base member and a fastener, the base member is configured to mount the electric actuation unit to the bicycle frame, and the fastener is configured to The base member is fixed to the bicycle frame. The power supply bracket includes a mounting part, which is constructed to be mounted to the bicycle frame by a fastener.

According to a thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention, the bicycle electrical component according to the first aspect is constructed such that the wireless communication unit is constructed to be detachably supported by an additional bicycle electrical component different from the bicycle electrical component.

In addition, other purposes, features, aspects and advantages of the bicycle electrical components disclosed herein will become clear to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. This detailed description, which is considered together with the accompanying drawings, reveals one of the bicycle electrical components Illustrative embodiment.

1‧‧‧Bicycle

10‧‧‧Wireless communication system

12‧‧‧Main bicycle frame

14‧‧‧Front suspension fork

16‧‧‧Rear swing arm

18‧‧‧ Rear shock absorber

18'‧‧‧ rear shock absorber

20‧‧‧Adjustable seatpost

20'‧‧‧Adjustable seatpost

22‧‧‧Handlebar

24‧‧‧Front wheels

26‧‧‧Rear wheel

28‧‧‧Cushion

30‧‧‧Front pedal crank

32‧‧‧Rear cassette sprocket

34‧‧‧Chain

38‧‧‧Power Supply Unit

40‧‧‧Front derailleur

42‧‧‧Rear derailleur

42'‧‧‧Rear derailleur

44‧‧‧Bicycle Computer

44a‧‧‧Power line communication port

44b‧‧‧Wire

46‧‧‧The first electrical component operating device

48‧‧‧The second electrical component operating device

50‧‧‧Supporting structure

50a‧‧‧Matching part

50b‧‧‧First Space

52‧‧‧movable component

52a‧‧‧Chain guide

54‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

56‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

57‧‧‧Connecting rod group

58‧‧‧Base member

58a‧‧‧Second buckle structure

60‧‧‧First shell

60a‧‧‧First fastening structure

60b‧‧‧Attaching surface

62‧‧‧Second shell

62a‧‧‧Connecting surface

64‧‧‧First electrical contact

66‧‧‧Wireless communication component

68‧‧‧Cushioning member

70‧‧‧Second electric contact

72‧‧‧Seal

73‧‧‧Electric port

74‧‧‧Printed Circuit Board

76‧‧‧First electrical port

78‧‧‧Controller

80‧‧‧Electric actuator

82‧‧‧Gear reduction unit

140‧‧‧Front derailleur

150‧‧‧Supporting structure

150a‧‧‧Matching part

150b‧‧‧Concavity

152‧‧‧movable component

152a‧‧‧Chain guide

154‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

156‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

158‧‧‧Base component

160‧‧‧First shell

160a‧‧‧First fastening structure

162‧‧‧Second shell

162a‧‧‧Second buckle structure

163‧‧‧Facing the surface of the frame

166‧‧‧Wireless communication component

176‧‧‧Electric port

240‧‧‧Front derailleur

250‧‧‧Supporting structure

250a‧‧‧Matching part

250b‧‧‧Concavity

252‧‧‧movable component

252a‧‧‧Chain guide

254‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

256‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

256a‧‧‧Electric port

258‧‧‧Base member

260‧‧‧First shell

260a‧‧‧First fastening structure

262‧‧‧Second shell

262a‧‧‧Second buckle structure

263‧‧‧Facing the surface of the frame

266‧‧‧Wireless communication component

276‧‧‧Electric port

340‧‧‧Front derailleur

350‧‧‧Supporting structure

352‧‧‧movable component

352a‧‧‧Chain guide

354‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

356‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

358‧‧‧Base member

366‧‧‧Wireless communication component

373‧‧‧Electric Port

376‧‧‧Electric Port

440‧‧‧Front derailleur

450‧‧‧Supporting structure

450a‧‧‧Matching part

450b‧‧‧Sag

452‧‧‧movable component

452a‧‧‧Chain guide

454‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

456‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

458‧‧‧Base member

460‧‧‧First shell

462‧‧‧Second shell

464‧‧‧First electrical contact

470‧‧‧Second electric contact

472‧‧‧Seal

540‧‧‧Front derailleur

550‧‧‧Supporting structure

550a‧‧‧Matching part

550b‧‧‧Concavity

552‧‧‧movable component

552a‧‧‧Chain guide

554‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

555‧‧‧Cable

555a‧‧‧Electrical connector

556‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

557‧‧‧Electrical connector

558‧‧‧Base member

560‧‧‧First shell

562‧‧‧Second shell

572‧‧‧Seal

640‧‧‧Front derailleur

650‧‧‧Supporting structure

650a‧‧‧Matching part

650b‧‧‧Second Space

650c‧‧‧Opening

652‧‧‧movable component

652a‧‧‧Chain guide

654‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

656‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

658‧‧‧Base member

660‧‧‧First shell

662‧‧‧Second shell

664‧‧‧First electrical contact

666‧‧‧Wireless communication component

670‧‧‧Second electric contact

671‧‧‧Cover

738‧‧‧Power Supply Unit

739‧‧‧Power Supply Bracket

739a‧‧‧Installation part

740‧‧‧Front derailleur

750‧‧‧Supporting structure

752‧‧‧movable component

752a‧‧‧Chain guide

754‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

756‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

758‧‧‧Base member

760‧‧‧First shell

762‧‧‧Second shell

766‧‧‧Wireless communication component

776‧‧‧Electric port

777‧‧‧Electric port

838‧‧‧Power Supply Unit

839‧‧‧Power Supply Bracket

840‧‧‧Front derailleur

850‧‧‧Supporting structure

852‧‧‧movable component

852a‧‧‧Chain guide

854‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

856‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

858‧‧‧Base member

860‧‧‧First shell

862‧‧‧Second shell

865‧‧‧third contact

866‧‧‧Wireless communication component

867‧‧‧Fourth contact

876‧‧‧Electric port

877‧‧‧Electric Port

950‧‧‧Supporting structure

950'‧‧‧Supporting structure

952‧‧‧movable component

952'‧‧‧movable member

952a‧‧‧Chain guide

952a'‧‧‧Chain guide

954‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

954'‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

956‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

956'‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

958‧‧‧Base member

958'‧‧‧Base member

962'‧‧‧Second shell

971'‧‧‧Cover

1050‧‧‧Supporting structure

1050'‧‧‧Supporting structure

1052‧‧‧movable component

1052'‧‧‧movable member

1054‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

1054'‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

1056‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

1056'‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

1058‧‧‧Base member

1058'‧‧‧Base member

1060‧‧‧First shell

1060'‧‧‧First shell

1062‧‧‧Second shell

1062'‧‧‧Second shell

1071'‧‧‧Cover

1150‧‧‧Supporting structure

1150'‧‧‧Supporting structure

1152‧‧‧movable component

1152'‧‧‧movable member

1154‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

1154'‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

1156‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

1156'‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

1158‧‧‧Base member

1158'‧‧‧Base member

1160‧‧‧First shell

1160'‧‧‧First shell

1162‧‧‧Second shell

1162'‧‧‧Second shell

1171'‧‧‧Cover

1240‧‧‧Front derailleur

1250‧‧‧Supporting structure

1250a‧‧‧Matching part

1250b‧‧‧First Space

1252‧‧‧movable component

1252a‧‧‧Chain guide

1254‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

1256‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

1257‧‧‧Connecting rod group

1258‧‧‧Base member

1260‧‧‧First shell

1262‧‧‧Second shell

1264‧‧‧Electrical connector

1266‧‧‧Wireless communication component

1268‧‧‧Electric port

1270‧‧‧Electric port

1280‧‧‧Electric actuator

1282‧‧‧Gear reduction unit

1342‧‧‧Rear derailleur

1350‧‧‧Supporting structure

1350a‧‧‧Matching part

1350b‧‧‧First Space

1352‧‧‧movable component

1352a‧‧‧Chain guide

1354‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

1356‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

1357‧‧‧Connecting rod group

1358‧‧‧Base member

1360‧‧‧First shell

1362‧‧‧Second shell

1364‧‧‧Electrical connector

1368‧‧‧Electric port

1370‧‧‧Electric port

D1‧‧‧First connection direction

D2‧‧‧Second connection direction

F‧‧‧Fastener

PLC‧‧‧Cable

PLC1‧‧‧Cable

PLC2‧‧‧Cable

SW1‧‧‧The first manual operation input component

SW2‧‧‧The second manual operation input component

W1‧‧‧Control line

W2‧‧‧Control line

Referring now to the accompanying drawings that form part of this original disclosure: FIG. 1 is a side view of a bicycle according to a first embodiment, which is equipped with bicycle electrical components (ie, front derailleur, rear Derailleur, front suspension, rear suspension, and adjustable seatpost); Figure 2 is a top view of the bicycle handlebar area of the bicycle shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is the one shown in Figure 1 An enlarged front view of the front derailleur (that is, one of the bicycle electrical components) in the retracted position; Figure 4 is an enlarged front view of the front derailleur shown in Figure 3, where the chain guide is in the retracted position Back position; Figure 5 is an external rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in Figures 3 and 4, with the chain guide in the retracted position; Figure 6 is the front derailleur shown in Figures 3 to 5 Fig. 7 is an external rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in Figs. 3 to 6 showing the wireless communication unit in the unmounted position; Fig. 8 is The internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 3 to 7 shows that the wireless communication unit is in an uninstalled position; FIG. 9 is the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 3 to 8 Figure 10 is the second perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in Figures 3 to 8; Figure 11 is the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in Figures 3 to 8 An exploded perspective view of the communication unit; FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 3 to 8 as seen along the section line 12-12 of FIG. 9; The internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 8, in which a part of the housing of the electric actuation unit of the front derailleur is cut to show the internal components of the electric actuation unit; FIG. 14 is according to the second embodiment The internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur with the wireless communication unit, which shows the wireless communication unit in the installation position; Figure 15 is the internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in Figure 14, which shows the wireless communication unit is not Installation position; Figure 16 is a perspective view of the interior of the front derailleur with a wireless communication unit according to the first modification of the second embodiment, which shows the wireless communication unit in the installation position; Figure 17 is the front shown in Figure 16 The internal rear perspective view of the derailleur showing the wireless communication unit in the unmounted position; FIG. 18 is the internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur with the wireless communication unit according to the second modification of the second embodiment, which shows the wireless communication unit In the installed position; FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the inside of the front derailleur shown in FIG. 18, which shows the wireless communication unit in an uninstalled position; FIG. 20 is a third modification of the second embodiment with a wireless communication unit The internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur, which shows the wireless communication unit in the installed position; Figure 21 is the internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in Figure 20, which shows the wireless communication unit in the uninstalled position; Figure 22 It is an internal rear perspective view of a front derailleur with a wireless communication unit according to a fourth modification of the second embodiment, which shows the wireless communication unit in the installation position; FIG. 2 3 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in FIG. 22, which shows the wireless communication unit in an uninstalled position; FIG. 24 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur with a wireless communication unit according to the third embodiment , Which shows that the wireless communication unit is in the installed position; FIG. 25 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in FIG. 24, which shows that the wireless communication unit is in an uninstalled position; FIG. 26 is a wireless communication unit according to the fourth embodiment The top view of the front derailleur of the communication unit, which shows that the wireless communication unit is in the installed position; FIG. 27 is a top view of the front derailleur with a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the front derailleur according to the fourth embodiment, which Shows the wireless communication unit in the installation position; Figure 28 is an external view of the rear derailleur with a wireless communication unit according to the first embodiment of the rear derailleur, which shows the wireless communication unit in the installation position; Figure 29 is in Figure 28 The external view of the rear derailleur shown shows that the wireless communication unit is in an uninstalled position; FIG. 30 is an external view of the rear derailleur with a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the first embodiment of the rear derailleur , Which shows the wireless communication unit in the installed position; Figure 31 is an external view of the rear derailleur shown in Figure 30, which shows the wireless communication unit in the uninstalled position; Figure 32 is based on the first implementation of the adjustable seatpost For example, an external view of an adjustable seatpost with a wireless communication unit, which shows that the wireless communication unit is in the installed position; Figure 33 is an external view of the adjustable seatpost shown in Figure 32, which shows that the wireless communication unit is not installed Position; Figure 34 is an external view of the adjustable seatpost with a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the first embodiment of the adjustable seatpost, which shows the wireless communication unit in the installation position; Figure 35 is shown in Figure 34 The external view of the adjustable seatpost, which shows that the wireless communication unit is in the unmounted position; FIG. 36 is an external view of the rear suspension device with the wireless communication unit according to the first embodiment of the rear suspension device, which shows the wireless communication unit 37 is an external view of the rear suspension device depicted in FIG. 36, which shows the wireless communication unit in an uninstalled position; FIG. 38 is a modification of the first embodiment of the rear suspension device with wireless An external view of the rear suspension device of the communication unit, which shows that the wireless communication unit is in the installed position; FIG. 39 is an external view of the rear suspension device depicted in FIG. 38, which shows that the wireless communication unit is in an uninstalled position; FIG. 40 It is similar to the external rear perspective view of the front derailleur according to another embodiment of FIG. 5, the front derailleur has the wireless communication unit in the installed position; FIG. 41 is the external rear view of the front derailleur shown in FIG. 40 A perspective view showing that the wireless communication unit is in an uninstalled position, so that the cable can be directly plugged into the electrical port of the electric actuation unit; Figure 42 is the front derailleur shown in Figure 40 and Figure 41 The external rear perspective view of the device, which shows that the cable is directly plugged into the electrical port of the electric actuation unit; FIG. 43 is a rear-end view of the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 40 to 42, which shows Shows that the chain guide is in the retracted position, and the wireless communication unit is removed; FIG. 44 is a rear view of the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 40 to 43, which shows the chain guide is in the retracted position, and The wireless communication unit is removed, and a part of the housing for the electric actuation unit is removed; FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 40 to 44, which shows the wireless communication unit The electrical connector (electric male plug connector) is plugged into the mating electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the electric actuation unit; Figure 46 is the wireless for the front derailleur shown in Figures 40 to 45 A three-dimensional view of the communication unit, which shows that the electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the wireless communication unit receives the matching electrical connector (electric male plug connector) of the cable; FIG. 47 is shown in FIGS. 40 to 46 An oblique view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur, showing that the electrical connections of the wireless communication unit are arranged vertically; FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 40 to 47 Figure, which shows that the cover of the wireless communication unit is in an exploded position to expose the electrical connection (female socket or port) of the wireless communication unit; Figure 49 is for the front derailleur shown in Figures 41 to 48 A view of the wireless communication unit, which shows that the electrical connector (electric male plug connector) of the wireless communication unit is plugged into the mating electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the electrical actuation unit; FIG. 50 is according to another embodiment The external view of the rear derailleur, the rear derailleur has the wireless communication unit in the installed position; Figure 51 is the internal view of the rear derailleur shown in Figure 50, in which the cable is unplugged from the wireless communication unit; Figure 52 It is an internal perspective view of the base of the rear derailleur shown in FIG. 50 and FIG. 51, in which the wireless communication unit is removed to show that the mating electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the electric actuation unit receives wireless communication The electrical connector (electric male plug connector) of the unit; Figure 53 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the rear derailleur shown in Figures 50 to 52, which shows the electrical connector (electric male plug) of the wireless communication unit The connector) is plugged into the mating electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the electric actuation unit; FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 50 to 52, which shows The configuration of the electrical connectors of the wireless communication unit relative to each other; FIG. 55 is another perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in FIGS. 50 to 52, which shows the electrical connector (electrical) of the wireless communication unit The male plug connector) is plugged into the mating electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the electric actuation unit; and Fig. 56 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in Figs. 50 to 52, It shows that the electrical connector (female electrical socket or port) of the wireless communication unit receives the matching electrical connector (electric male plug connector) of the cable.

The selected embodiment will now be explained with reference to the drawings. For those skilled in the bicycle field from this disclosure, it will be clear that the following descriptions of the embodiments are only provided for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention is defined by the scope of the attached patent application and its equivalents. .

Referring first to FIG. 1, according to the first embodiment, the bicycle 1 is shown as being equipped with a wireless communication system 10. In Fig. 1, bicycle 1 is a double-suspension (cross-country) bicycle. However, the wireless communication system 10 discussed here is not limited to the illustrated bicycles, but can be applied to other types of bicycles, such as road bicycles with drop handlebars.

The bicycle 1 includes a main bicycle frame 12, a front suspension fork 14 (that is, a bicycle front suspension device), a rear swing arm 16, and a rear shock 18 (that is, a rear suspension of the bicycle). Device) and adjustable seatpost 20. The handlebar 22 is fixed to the top of the front suspension fork 14 in order to manipulate the bicycle 1. The lower end of the front suspension fork 14 rotatably supports the front wheel 24. The rear rocker arm 16 is pivotally mounted to the main bicycle frame 12 and rotatably supports the rear wheel 26. The bicycle seat or cushion 28 is mounted to the adjustable seatpost 20 which is adjustably mounted to the main bicycle frame 12. The bicycle 1 further includes a drive train, which has a front pedal crank set 30, a rear sprocket cassette 32 and a chain 34. The bicycle 1 further includes a power supply unit 38 (ie, a rechargeable battery). The bicycle 1 further includes a front derailleur 40 and a rear derailleur 42 for changing the gear position of the driving device. The front derailleur 40 is installed on the main bicycle frame 12, and the rear derailleur 42 is installed on the rear rocker arm 16.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front suspension fork 14, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seatpost 20, the front derailleur 40, and the rear derailleur 42 are examples of bicycle electrical components, which are at least two Adjustable between two operating modes. Therefore, in some cases, the front suspension fork 14, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seatpost 20, the front derailleur 40, and the rear derailleur 42 will be collectively referred to as bicycle electrical components. As explained below, the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 are constructed for both wireless communication and for wired communication. In Figure 1, bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 are set up for wireless communication. Since the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 shown here are well known in the bicycle field, the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 will only be used for the modification of the present invention. Need to understand the degree to discuss. Moreover, the bicycle electric components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 are not limited to the electric bicycle components and special configurations disclosed herein. Rather, the wireless communication system 10 can have any combination of bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42, and other bicycle electrical components (not shown) as needed and/or desired.

As seen in FIG. 2, the handlebar 22 is provided with a cycle computer 44, a first electrical component operating device 46 and a second electrical component operating device 48. The bicycle computer 44, the first electrical component operating device 46, and the second electrical component operating device 48 form the control part of the wireless communication system 10, which controls the front suspension fork 14, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seatpost 20, and the front Operation of the derailleur 40 and the rear derailleur 42. The bicycle 10 also includes many other components that are typically mounted on the bicycle, but they are not related to the wireless communication system 10 discussed herein.

As seen in FIG. 2, the first electric component operating device 46 includes a first manual operation input member SW1, and the second electric component operating device 48 includes a second manual operation input member SW2. The first manual operation input member SW1 and the second manual operation input member SW2 can be used to control one or two bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42. At least one of the input members SW1 and SW2 can include a wireless communicator to transmit a wireless signal such as a variable speed signal to the wireless communication unit like the present invention.

Here, the bicycle computer 44 includes a wireless communication unit (not shown) for wirelessly transmitting signals and data based on operating signals from the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 and/or Received to bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42. Therefore, the wireless communication unit of the bicycle computer 44 is a two-way wireless communication unit, which uses a wireless receiver and a wireless transmitter to perform two-way wireless communication. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle computer 44 includes a power line communication port 44a in which an electrical cord 44b is plugged in to transmit control signals via the electrical cord 44b. To a wiring junction (not shown). Therefore, the bicycle computer 44 can be used for wireless communication and/or power line communication as needed and/or desired. Of course, in a pure wireless configuration, the communication between the bicycle computer 44 and the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 does not require a wire 44b.

The wireless control signal of the bicycle computer 44 can be a radio frequency (RF) signal or any other type of signal suitable for wireless communication as known in the bicycle field. It should be understood that the second wireless communication unit of the bicycle computer 44 can transmit signals at a special frequency and/or with an identifier such as a special code to distinguish the wireless control signal from other wireless control signals. In this way, the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 can recognize which control signals are executed according to and which control signals will be executed. For example, the front derailleur 40 and the rear derailleur 42 can recognize which control signals are upshift signals and which control signals are downshift signals. Therefore, the front derailleur 40 can ignore the control signal for the rear derailleur 42.

Furthermore, although the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 are shown as being connected by control wires W1 and W2, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the first electrical component operating device 46 Each of the second electrical component operating device 48 and the second electrical component operating device 48 can include a wireless communication unit (not shown) that directly communicates with the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 or communicates with the bicycle computer 44 via the bicycle computer 44. The bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40 and 42 communicate. In the present invention, the wireless communication unit can be used for wireless communication with other devices such as smart phones or personal computers, for example to update the firmware stored in the memory provided in at least one of the bicycle electrical components .

The bicycle computer 44 is programmed to selectively output wireless control signals to selectively control the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42. More specifically, the bicycle computer table 44 includes a suspension adjustment program, a seatpost adjustment program, and a shift program stored in the memory. The bicycle computer 44 is constructed so that the user can select the suspension adjustment mode, the seatpost adjustment mode, and the shift mode. In the suspension adjustment mode, the operation signals output from the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 are used by the bicycle computer 44 based on the suspension stored in the memory of the bicycle computer 44. The suspension adjustment program selectively controls one or both of the front suspension fork 14 and the rear shock absorber 18. In the seatpost adjustment mode, the operating signals output from the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 are used by the bicycle computer 44 based on the seatpost stored in the memory of the bicycle computer 44 The adjustment program selectively controls the adjustable seatpost 20. In the gear shift mode, the operation signals output from the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 are used by the bicycle computer 44 based on the gear shift program stored in the memory of the bicycle computer 44. One or both of the front derailleur 40 and the rear derailleur 42 are selectively controlled.

Referring now to FIGS. 3-13, the front derailleur 40 will now be discussed in more detail. Basically, the front derailleur 40 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 50, a movable member 52, an electric actuation unit 54 and a wireless communication unit 56. Here, the movable member 52 includes a chain guide 52a. As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the chain guide 52a is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 54 to move the chain guide 52a in the first (retracted) position and the second position by the linkage group 57 (Extended) Move between positions. Furthermore, the front derailleur 40 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 58 which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 54 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 54 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. The base member 58 is constructed to support the electric actuation unit 54. In addition, the base member 58 is configured to support the chain guide 52a via the link group 57.

As seen in FIGS. 5 to 8, the cable (power supply line) PLC1 has a first end that is detachably connected to the electric actuation unit 54 for supplying electric power from the power supply unit 38. The cable PLC1 has a second end that is detachably connected to a wiring connector (not shown) for receiving power and/or control signals via power line communication. When the wireless communication unit 56 is installed on the front derailleur 40 and wirelessly receives the control signal from the bicycle computer 44, the cable PLC1 only supplies power to the electric actuation unit 54. However, when the wireless communication unit 56 is not installed or in use, the cable PLC1 can be used to use power line communication to transmit the control signal from the bicycle computer 44 to the electricity via the wire 44b and wiring connectors (not shown). Actuation unit 54.

In the front derailleur 40, the support structure 50 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 54 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 56. In particular, the wireless communication unit 56 includes a first housing 60. The electric actuation unit 54 includes a second housing 62. The second housing 62 is different from the first housing 60 (that is, the first housing 60 and the second housing 62 are separate and different components). The supporting structure 50 is disposed on at least one of the first housing 60 and the second housing 62. Here, the supporting structure 50 includes a mating part 50 a (protruding part) for engaging the second housing 62 and/or the base member 58. The supporting structure 50 includes a first space 50 b formed between the base member 58 and the second housing 62 of the electric actuation unit 54, and the mating portion 50 a of the first housing 60 will be supported in the first space 50 b. As seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first housing 60 is configured to be inserted into the first space 50b.

As best seen in Figure 12, the support structure 50 includes a first buckling structure 60a and a second buckling structure 58a that removably engages the first buckling structure 60a. In the front derailleur 40, the first buckling structure 60 a is provided on the first housing 60, and the second buckling structure 58 a is provided on the base member 58. Alternatively, the first buckling structure 60 a can be configured to engage a second buckling structure provided on the second housing 62 of the electric actuation unit 54. One of the first fastening structure 60a and the second fastening structure 58a includes a latch, and the other of the first fastening structure 60a and the second fastening structure 58a includes a latch. In the front derailleur 40, the first fastening structure 60a is a latch, and the second fastening structure 58a is a latch. In this way, the supporting structure 50 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 56 to the front derailleur 40 (bicycle electric component). Instead of, or in addition to, the buckle connection, a screw and threaded hole type connection can be used to detachably support the wireless communication unit 56 to the front derailleur 40.

Referring to FIGS. 9 to 11, the wireless communication unit 56 includes a pair of first electrical contacts 64. The wireless communication unit 56 further includes a wireless communication member 66 housed in the first housing 60. The first electrical contact 64 is electrically connected to the wireless communication member 66. The wireless communication member 66 is a printed circuit board on which a two-way wireless communication circuit is printed. Preferably, the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component 66 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The wireless communication unit 56 further includes a pair of buffer members 68 for stabilizing the wireless communication member 66 in the first housing 60.

As seen in FIG. 12, the electric actuation unit 54 includes a pair of second electric contacts 70. The second electrical contact 70 is constructed to be electrically connected to the first electrical contact 64 in a state where the first housing 60 is disposed in the first space 50b. In the front derailleur 40, the second electrical contact 70 is a spring-loaded contact. The second electrical contact 70 is provided on the connection surface 62a facing the insertion direction of the first housing 60 into the first space 50b.

One of the wireless communication unit 56 and the electric actuation unit 54 includes a seal 72 that is constructed to surround the first electric contact 64 and the second electric contact 64 in a state where the first housing 60 is attached to the second housing 62 Electric contact 70. The seal 72 is an elastomer member in the form of an O-ring, which is disposed on the attachment surface 60 b of the first housing 60 to surround the first electrical contact 64. Alternatively, the sealing member 72 can be installed on the second housing 62. The second housing 62 of the electric actuation unit 54 and the second electrical contact 70 together define an electric port 73 that receives the portion of the first housing 60 that defines the attachment surface 60b.

As seen in FIG. 13, the electrical actuation unit 54 has a printed circuit board 74 and a first electrical port 76 electrically connected to the printed circuit board 74. The first electrical port 76 is constructed as a detachable and reattachable electrical connector connected to the connected cable PLC1. The second electrical contact 70 is also electrically connected to the printed circuit board 74. The electric actuation unit 54 further includes a controller 78 which is arranged on the printed circuit board 74. The controller 78 includes a central processing unit (CPU). Preferably, the electric actuation unit 54 further includes one or more storage devices, such as a ROM (read only memory) device, a RAM (random access memory) device and/or a FLASH memory device.

As seen in FIG. 13, the electric actuation unit 54 includes an electric actuator 80 which is housed in the second housing 62. The electric actuator 80 is electrically connected to the printed circuit board 74. In the front derailleur 40, the electric actuator 80 is a reversible electric motor. The electric actuator 80 is constructed to actuate the movable member 52. The electric actuation unit 54 further includes a gear reduction unit 82 which is connected to the electric actuator 80 and transmits the rotational movement of the output shaft of the electric actuator 80 to the swing movement of the chain guide 52 a via the linkage group 54. A position sensor (not shown) is provided to the gear reduction unit 82 to detect the amount of rotational movement output by the gear reduction unit 82. The printed circuit board 74 is provided with an actuator driver (not shown) for controlling the electric actuator 80, and a position detection circuit (not shown) for determining the amount of rotational movement output by the gear reduction unit 82. Position sensors, actuator (motor) drivers, and position detection circuits are well known in the bicycle field, so they will not be discussed here.

Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, the front derailleur 140 according to the second embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 140 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Basically, the front derailleur 140 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 150, a movable member 152, an electric actuation unit 154, and a wireless communication unit 156. Here, the front derailleur 140 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 158 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 154 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 154 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 152 includes a chain guide 152a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 154, similarly to the first embodiment discussed above, and the chain guide 152a is in the first position and the second position. Move between locations.

Here, in the second embodiment, the front derailleur 140 is equivalent to the front derailleur 40 discussed above, except that the support structure 150 and the electric actuation unit 154 have been modified so that the wireless communication unit 156 is directly mounted to The electric actuation unit 154 and the wireless communication unit 156 include a pair of cables PLC1 and PLC2 (power line communication lines), which are electrically connected to the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component (not shown) inside the wireless communication unit 156, and It is not an electrical contact of the wireless communication unit 56.

In the front derailleur 140, the support structure 150 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 154 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 156. In particular, the wireless communication unit 156 includes a first housing 160. The electric actuation unit 154 includes a second housing 162. The supporting structure 150 includes a mating portion 150a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 162. As shown in FIG. The supporting structure 150 includes a recess 150b in which the mating portion 150a of the first housing 160 will be supported. The recess 150 b is formed on the second housing 162. In the front derailleur 140, the second housing 162 has a frame facing surface 163 with a recess 150b. The frame facing surface 163 is constructed to face the bicycle frame 12 under a state where the front derailleur 140 (that is, the bicycle electrical component) is mounted to the bicycle frame 12.

The supporting structure 150 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 156 to the front derailleur 140 (a bicycle electric component). Similar to the first embodiment, the support structure 150 includes a first fastening structure 160a and a second fastening structure 162a that detachably engages the first fastening structure 160a. In the front derailleur 140, the first buckling structure 160 a is disposed on the first housing 160, and the second buckling structure 162 a is disposed on the second housing 162. In the front derailleur 140, the first fastening structure 160a is a latch, and the second fastening structure 162a is a latch. In this way, the supporting structure 150 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 156 to the front derailleur 140 (a bicycle electric component).

In the front derailleur 140, the wireless communication unit 156 includes a wireless communication member 166 which is housed in the first housing 160. The wireless communication member 166 is a printed circuit board on which a two-way wireless communication circuit is printed. Preferably, the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component 166 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The cables PLC1 and PLC2 of the wireless communication unit 156 are non-removably connected to the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component 166. The cable PLC1 is configured to be plugged into a wiring connector (not shown), and the cable PLC1 is configured to be plugged into the electrical port 176 of the electric actuation unit 154. In this way, the power supply unit 38 supplies power to the electric actuation unit 154 and the wireless communication unit 156.

Although the wireless communication unit 156 includes the cables PLC1 and PLC2, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other wiring configurations are possible. Basically, the wireless communication unit 156 includes at least one of an electrical port (plug-in terminal) and a cable, which is disposed at the first housing 160. Therefore, the electric actuation unit 154 includes at least one electric port, which is disposed at the second housing 162. The at least one electrical port of the electrical actuation unit 154 is configured to be electrically connected to at least one of the electrical port and the cable of the wireless communication unit 156.

Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, the front derailleur 240 according to the first modification of the second embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 240 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Basically, the front derailleur 240 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 250, a movable member 252, an electric actuation unit 254, and a wireless communication unit 256. Here, the front derailleur 240 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 258 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 254 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 254 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 252 includes a chain guide 252a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 254, to position the chain guide 252a in the first position and the second position similar to the first embodiment discussed above. Move between locations.

Here, in the first modification of the second embodiment, the front derailleur 240 is equivalent to the front derailleur 140 discussed above, except that the cable PLC2 can be detached from the terminals of the wireless communication unit 256 instead of being disabled. It is detachably wired to the printed circuit board of the wireless communication unit 156.

In the front derailleur 240, the support structure 250 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 254 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 256. In particular, the wireless communication unit 256 includes a first housing 260. The electric actuation unit 254 includes a second housing 262. The supporting structure 250 includes a mating portion 250 a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 262. The supporting structure 250 includes a recess 250b in which the mating portion 250a of the first housing 260 will be supported. The recess 250b is formed on the second housing 262. In the front derailleur 240, the second housing 262 has a frame facing surface 263 with a recess 250b. The frame facing surface 263 is constructed to face the bicycle frame 12 under a state where the front derailleur 240 (that is, the bicycle electrical component) is mounted to the bicycle frame 12.

The supporting structure 250 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 256 to the front derailleur 240 (a bicycle electric component). Similar to the first embodiment, the supporting structure 250 includes a first fastening structure 260a and a second fastening structure 262a that detachably engages the first fastening structure 260a. In the front derailleur 140, the first buckling structure 260 a is disposed on the first housing 160, and the second buckling structure 262 a is disposed on the second housing 262. In the front derailleur 240, the first fastening structure 260a is a latch, and the second fastening structure 262a is a latch. In this way, the supporting structure 250 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 256 to the front derailleur 240 (a bicycle electric component).

In the front derailleur 240, the wireless communication unit 256 includes a wireless communication member 266, which is housed in the first housing 260. The wireless communication member 266 is a printed circuit board on which a two-way wireless communication circuit is printed. Preferably, the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component 266 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The cable PLC1 has a first end configured to be plugged into the electrical port 256a (plug-in terminal) of the wireless communication unit 256, and a second end configured to be plugged into the wiring connector. The cable PLC2 of the wireless communication unit 256 has a first end that is non-removably connected to the printed circuit board of the wireless communication member 266, and a second end constructed to be plugged into the electrical port 276 of the electric actuation unit 254. end. In this way, the power supply unit 38 supplies power to the electric actuation unit 254 and the wireless communication unit 256.

Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, the front derailleur 340 according to the second modification of the second embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 340 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Basically, the front derailleur 340 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 350, a movable member 352 (that is, a chain guide), an electric actuation unit 354, and a wireless communication unit 356. Here, the front derailleur 340 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 358 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 354 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 354 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 352 includes a chain guide 352a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 354, to position the chain guide 352a in the first position and the second position similar to the first embodiment discussed above. Move between locations.

Here, in this embodiment, the front derailleur 340 is equivalent to the front derailleur 140 discussed above, except that the wiring configuration has been modified so that the cable PLC1 is plugged into the first electric actuator of the electric actuation unit 354. In the port 376, and the cable PLC2 is plugged into the second electric port 373 of the electric actuation unit 354. The electrical ports 373 and 376 are equivalent to the electrical ports 73 and 76 of the first embodiment discussed above. Here, the cable PLC1 has a first end configured to be plugged into the electrical port 376 of the electric actuation unit 254, and a second end configured to be plugged into the wiring connector (not shown). . The cable PLC2 has a first end that is non-removably connected to the printed circuit board of the wireless communication member 366, and a second end that is configured to be plugged into the electrical port 373 of the electric actuation unit 254. In this way, the power supply unit 38 supplies power to the electric actuation unit 254 and the wireless communication unit 256 via the cables PLC1 and PLC2.

Referring now to FIGS. 20 and 21, the front derailleur 440 according to the third modification of the second embodiment will now be discussed. However, in view of the similarity between the third modification of the second embodiment and the second embodiment, the following description will focus on the differences from the second embodiment. The front derailleur 440 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Basically, the front derailleur 440 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 450, a movable member 452, an electric actuation unit 454, and a wireless communication unit 456. Here, the front derailleur 440 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 458 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 454 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 454 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 452 includes a chain guide 452a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 454, similarly to the first embodiment discussed above, the chain guide 452a is in the first position and the second position. Move between locations.

In the front derailleur 440, the support structure 450 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 454 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 456. In particular, the wireless communication unit 456 includes a first housing 460. The electric actuation unit 454 includes a second housing 462. The supporting structure 450 includes a mating portion 450 a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 462. The supporting structure 450 includes a recess 450b in which the mating portion 450a of the first housing 460 will be supported. The recess 450b is formed on the second housing 462. The supporting structure 450 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 456 to the front derailleur 440 (a bicycle electric component).

Here, in the third modification of the second embodiment, the front derailleur 440 is equivalent to the front derailleur 340 discussed above, except that the wireless communication unit 456 is provided with a pair of spring-loaded first electrical contacts 464, In addition, the electric actuation unit 454 is provided with a pair of exposed second electric contacts 470. When the wireless communication unit 456 is installed on the electric actuation unit 454, the exposed second electric contact 470 is contacted by the spring-loaded first electric contact 464.

The sealing member 472 is provided on the second housing 462 in the recess 450b to protect the electrical connection between the first electrical contact 464 and the second electrical contact 470 from contamination. The sealing member 472 is configured to surround the first contact 464 and the second contact 470 in a state where the first housing 460 is attached to the second housing 462.

Referring now to FIGS. 22 and 23, the front derailleur 540 according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 540 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Basically, the front derailleur 540 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 550, a movable member 552 (that is, a chain guide), an electric actuation unit 554, and a wireless communication unit 556. Here, the front derailleur 540 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 558 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 554 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 554 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 552 includes a chain guide 552a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 554, similarly to the first embodiment discussed above, and the chain guide 552a is in the first position and the second position. Move between locations.

In the front derailleur 540, the support structure 550 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 554 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 556. In particular, the wireless communication unit 556 includes a first housing 560. The electric actuation unit 554 includes a second housing 562. The supporting structure 550 includes a mating portion 550 a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 562. The supporting structure 550 includes a recess 550b in which the mating portion 550a of the first housing 560 will be supported. The recess 550b is formed on the second housing 562. The supporting structure 550 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 556 to the front derailleur 540 (a bicycle electric component).

Here, in this embodiment, the front derailleur 540 is equivalent to the front derailleur 440 discussed above, except that the electric actuation unit 554 is provided with a cable 555, and the wireless communication unit 556 is provided with removable and The electrical connector 557 that can be attached to the electrical connector 555a of the cable 555 in a reattachable manner.

The sealing member 572 is provided on the second housing 562 in the recess 550b to protect the electrical connection between the electrical connector 555a and the electrical connector 557 from contamination. The sealing member 572 is constructed to surround the first and second electrical contacts of the electrical connector 555 a and the electrical connector 557 in a state where the first housing 560 is attached to the second housing 562.

Referring now to FIGS. 24 and 25, the front derailleur 640 according to the third embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 640 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Basically, the front derailleur 640 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 650, a movable member 652 (that is, a chain guide), an electric actuation unit 654, and a wireless communication unit 656. Here, the front derailleur 640 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 658 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 654 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 654 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 652 includes a chain guide 652a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 654, to position the chain guide 652a in the first position and the second position similar to the first embodiment discussed above. Move between locations.

In the front derailleur 640, the support structure 650 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 654 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 656. In particular, the wireless communication unit 656 includes a first housing 660. The electric actuation unit 654 includes a second housing 662. The supporting structure 650 includes a mating portion 650a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 662. As shown in FIG. The supporting structure 650 includes a second space 650 b formed in the second housing 662 of the electric actuation unit 654 for receiving the mating portion 650 a of the first housing 660. The first housing 660 is configured to be inserted into the second space 650b. The supporting structure 650 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 656 to the front derailleur 640 (a bicycle electric component). In this embodiment, the first housing 660 can be omitted, and the second housing 662 as an integral member can be the first housing of the wireless communication unit 656 that houses the wireless communication member 666.

The wireless communication unit 656 includes a plurality of first electrical contacts 664 which are disposed on the first housing 660. The electric actuation unit 654 includes a plurality of second electric contacts 670, which are disposed inside the second space 650b. The second electrical contact 670 is configured to electrically contact the first electrical contact 664 in a state where the first housing 660 is disposed in the second space 650b.

The second housing 662 includes a covering member 671 configured to close the opening 650c of the second space 650b. Here, the covering member 671 is hingedly mounted to the second housing 662 between the closed position and the open position. The covering member 671 is provided with a latch that engages the catch of the second housing 662, so that the covering member 671 is held in the closed position by the snap connection. The electric actuation unit 654 includes a sealing member 672 configured to seal the interface between the surrounding opening 650 c of the second housing 662 and the covering member 671 in a state where the covering member 671 closes the opening 650 c.

Therefore, the covering member 671 is constructed so that when the first electrical contact 664 of the wireless communication unit 656 is removed from the second electrical contact 670, the covering is disposed on the second electrical contact 670 on the second housing 662 . In this way, the cover 671 protects the second electrical contact 670 when the wireless communication unit 656 is not in use (that is, when the electrical wiring communication system is used).

Referring now to FIG. 26, the front derailleur 740 according to the fourth embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 740 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Here, the front derailleur 740 (bicycle electric component) includes a power supply unit 738 and a power supply bracket 739. In the front derailleur 740, the support structure 750 is defined by the power supply unit 738 and the power supply bracket 739. Therefore, in the front derailleur 740, when the current derailleur 740 is mounted to the bicycle frame 12, power is not supplied by the power supply unit 38.

Basically, the front derailleur 740 (a bicycle electric component) includes a movable member 752, an electric actuation unit 754, and a wireless communication unit 756. Here, the front derailleur 740 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 758 configured to mount the electric actuation unit 754 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 754 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 752 includes a chain guide 752a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 754, similarly to the first embodiment discussed above, and the chain guide 752a is in the first position and the second position. Move between locations. The supporting structure 750 (that is, the power supply unit 738 and the power supply bracket 739) supports the wireless communication unit 756 on the bicycle frame 12.

In the front derailleur 740, the wireless communication unit 756 includes a first housing 760 for accommodating the wireless communication member 766. The electric actuation unit 754 includes a second housing 762. The wireless communication unit 756 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 discussed above in that the wireless communication unit 756 is plugged into the recess of the power supply unit 738 to be electrically connected to the electric actuation unit 754. The first housing 760 and the power supply unit 738 have a snap connection similar to the first embodiment, so as to hold the first housing 760 in the recess of the power supply unit 738. In this way, the first housing 760 is constructed to be detachably supported in the power supply unit 738.

As mentioned above, the wireless communication unit 756 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 discussed above, and therefore, the wireless communication unit 756 includes a wireless communication member 766 and a first electrical contact (not shown). Since the wireless communication unit 756 is supported by the power supply unit 738, the power supply unit 738 is constructed to accommodate the wireless communication member 766. In this embodiment, the first housing 760 can be omitted, and the housing of the power supply bracket can be the first housing of the wireless communication unit 756 as an integral component, which can accommodate the wireless communication member 66.

The power supply unit 738 is configured to supply power to the electric actuation unit 754 via the cable PLC1. The cable PLC1 also uses power line communication to provide control signals from the wireless communication unit 756 to the electric actuation unit 754. The power supply bracket 739 is constructed to mount the power supply unit 738 to the front derailleur 740 (bicycle electric component). The power supply bracket 739 as the supporting structure in this embodiment is also constructed to support the wireless communication unit 756 to the front derailleur 740 (a bicycle electrical component). In other words, the power supply bracket 739 constitutes the supporting structure 750 in this embodiment. The front derailleur 740 is basically the same as the front derailleur 40, except that the wireless communication unit 756 is now supported by the battery holder 739, and the power and control signals for the electric actuation unit 754 are supplied via the cable PLC1 using power line communication. .

The front derailleur 740 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a fastener F which is configured to fix the base member 758 to the bicycle frame 12. The power supply bracket 739 includes a mounting portion 739a, which is constructed to be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 by a fastener F. Therefore, the power supply bracket 739 is fixed to the bicycle frame 12 by the fastener F together with the base member 758.

The electric actuation unit 754 includes at least one electric port 776 which is disposed at the second housing 762. The power supply unit 738 includes at least one of an electric port and a cable (ie, the electric port 777). One end of the cable PLC1 is plugged into the electrical port 776 of the electric actuation unit 754, and the other end of the cable PLC1 is plugged into the electrical port 777 of the power supply unit 738. The cable PLC1 receives both the power from the power supply unit 738 and the data (control signal) from the wireless communication unit 756 via the electrical port 777. Alternatively, one or both ends of the cable PLC1 can be non-removably connected between the power supply unit 738 and the electric actuation unit 754.

Referring now to FIG. 27, the front derailleur 840 according to the fourth embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 840 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. Here, the front derailleur 840 (electric bicycle component) includes a power supply unit 838 and a power supply bracket 839. Therefore, in the front derailleur 840, when the current derailleur 840 is mounted to the bicycle frame 12, power is not supplied by the power supply unit 38.

Basically, the front derailleur 840 (a bicycle electric component) includes a movable member 852, an electric actuation unit 854, and a wireless communication unit 856. Here, the front derailleur 840 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 858 which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 854 to the bicycle frame 12. In the front derailleur 840, the base member 858 is a hinged clamp, which is attached to the seat tube of the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 852 includes a chain guide 852a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 854, similarly to the first embodiment discussed above, the chain guide 852a is in the first position and the second position. Move between locations.

In the front derailleur 840, the support structure 850 is defined by a power supply bracket 839. Here, the wireless communication unit 856 includes a first housing 860 for accommodating the wireless communication component 866. The electric actuation unit 854 includes a second housing 862. The wireless communication unit 856 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 discussed above in that the wireless communication unit 856 is inserted into the recess of the power supply bracket 839 to be electrically connected to the electric actuation unit 854. The recesses of the first housing 860 and the power supply bracket 839 of the wireless communication unit 856 are similar to the first embodiment but have a snap connection to hold the first housing 860 in the recess of the power supply bracket 839. In this way, the first housing 860 is constructed to be detachably supported by the power supply bracket 839. Alternatively, the wireless communication member 866 is non-removably contained in the power supply bracket which is regarded as the first housing of the wireless communication unit 856.

As mentioned above, the wireless communication unit 856 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 discussed above, and thus includes the wireless communication member 866 and the first electrical contact (not shown). Since the wireless communication unit 856 is supported by the housing of the power supply bracket 839, the power supply bracket 839 is constructed to accommodate the wireless communication member 866.

The power supply unit 838 is configured to supply power to the electric actuation unit 854 via the cable PLC1. The cable PLC1 also uses power line communication to provide control signals from the wireless communication unit 856 to the electric actuation unit 854. The power supply bracket 839 is constructed to mount the power supply unit 838 to the front derailleur 840 (bicycle electric component). The power supply bracket 839 as the supporting structure in this embodiment is also constructed to support the wireless communication unit 856 to the front derailleur 840 (bicycle electric component). In other words, the power supply bracket 839 constitutes the supporting structure in this embodiment. The front derailleur 840 is basically the same as the front derailleur 40, except that the wireless communication unit 856 is now supported by the battery holder 839, and the power and control signals for the electric actuation unit 854 are supplied via the cable PLC1 using power line communication. .

The power supply bracket 839 includes a pair of third contacts 865. The power supply unit 838 includes a pair of fourth contacts 867, which are configured to electrically contact the third contacts 865 in a state where the power supply unit 838 is mounted to the power supply bracket 839.

The electric actuation unit 854 includes at least one electric port 876 disposed at the second housing 862. The power supply unit 838 includes at least one of an electric port and a cable (ie, the electric port 877). One end of the cable PLC1 is plugged into the electrical port 876 of the electric actuation unit 854, and the other end of the cable PLC1 is plugged into the electrical port 877 of the power supply unit 838. The cable PLC1 receives both the power from the power supply unit 838 and the data (control signal) from the wireless communication unit 856 through the electrical port 877. Alternatively, one or both ends of the cable PLC1 can be connected irremovably between the power supply unit 838 and the electric actuation unit 854. If necessary and/or desired, all the features in one to four embodiments can be combined.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2, 28, and 29, the rear derailleur 42 according to the first embodiment will now be discussed. As seen in FIG. 1, the rear derailleur 42 is mounted to the rear rocker arm 16. Here, although the bicycle computer 44 is set to the gear shift mode, one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 are based on the gear shift program stored in the memory of the bicycle computer 44 Can be used to control the rear derailleur 42.

Basically, the rear derailleur 42 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 950, a movable member 952, an electric actuation unit 954, and a wireless communication unit 956. Here, the rear derailleur 42 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 958 which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 954 to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 952 includes a chain guide 952a, which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 954 to move the chain guide 952a between the first position and the second position.

Here, the electric actuation unit 954 and the wireless communication unit 956 are detachably coupled together using the same snap connection as the user of the front derailleur 440. In fact, the wireless communication unit 956 is equivalent to the wireless communication unit 456 discussed above. Therefore, the wireless communication units 456 and 956 are interchangeable. The wireless communication unit 956 is configured to be detachably supported by an additional bicycle electric component (for example, the front derailleur 440) different from the rear derailleur 42 (bicycle electric component). Similarly, the wireless communication unit 456 is configured to be detachably supported on an additional bicycle electric component (for example, the rear derailleur 42) different from the front derailleur 440 (the bicycle electric component).

The electric actuation unit 954 is the same as the electric actuation unit 54 described above, except that the electric actuation unit 954 is suitable for the configuration of the rear derailleur 42. Regarding the electric actuation unit 954 and the wireless communication unit 956, in view of the structural similarity between the rear derailleur 42 and the front derailleur 440, the electric actuation unit 954 and the wireless communication unit 956 of the rear derailleur 42 will not Will be discussed or illustrated in more detail.

Referring now to FIGS. 30 and 31, the rear derailleur 42' according to a modification of the rear derailleur 42 will now be discussed. Basically, the rear derailleur 42' (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 950', a movable member 952', an electric actuation unit 954', and a wireless communication unit 956'. Here, the rear derailleur 42 ′ (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 958 ′, which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 954 ′ to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 952' includes a chain guide 952a', which is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 954' to move the chain guide 952a' between the first position and the second position.

Here, the electric actuation unit 954' and the wireless communication unit 956' are removably coupled together using the hinged cover 971'. Here, the hinged cover 971' is hingedly mounted to the second housing 962' between the closed position and the open position. The hinged covering member 971' is provided with a latch, which engages with the catch of the second housing 962', so that the hinged covering member 971' is held in the closed position by the snap connection. The rear derailleur 42' uses a covering member 971' which is hinged to the user of the front derailleur 640. In fact, the wireless communication unit 956' is equivalent to the wireless communication unit 656 discussed above. Therefore, the wireless communication units 656 and 956' are interchangeable. The wireless communication unit 956' is configured to be detachably supported by an additional bicycle electric component (for example, the front derailleur 640) different from the rear derailleur 42' (the bicycle electric component). Similarly, the wireless communication unit 656' is configured to be detachably supported on an additional bicycle electric component (for example, the rear derailleur 42') different from the front derailleur 640 (bicycle electric component).

The electric actuation unit 954' is the same as the electric actuation unit 54 described above, except that the electric actuation unit 954' is suitable for the configuration of the rear derailleur 42'. Regarding the electric actuation unit 954' and the wireless communication unit 956', in view of the structural similarity between the rear derailleur 42' and the front derailleur 640, the electric actuation unit 954' and the wireless communication unit of the rear derailleur 42' The communication unit 956' will not be discussed or illustrated in more detail.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 32 and 33, the adjustable seat post 20 according to the first embodiment will now be discussed. As seen in FIG. 1, the adjustable seat post 20 is mounted to the seat tube of the main frame 12. Here, although the bicycle computer 44 is set to the seatpost adjustment mode, one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 can be used based on the memory of the bicycle computer 44 The stored speed change program controls the adjustable seatpost 20.

Basically, the adjustable seatpost 20 (bicycle electric component) includes a supporting member 1050, a movable member 1052 (for example, a valve), an electric actuation unit 1054, and a wireless communication unit 1056. Here, the adjustable seatpost 20 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 1058 which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 1054 to the bicycle frame 12.

In the adjustable seatpost 20, the supporting structure 1050 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 1054 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1056. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1056 includes the first housing 1060 forming the first part of the support structure 1050 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 456, and the electric actuation unit 1054 includes the second housing in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 462.体1062.

Here, the electric actuation unit 1054 and the wireless communication unit 1056 are detachably coupled together using the same snap connection as the user of the front derailleur 440. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1056 is equivalent to the wireless communication units 456 and 956 discussed above. Therefore, the wireless communication units 456, 956, and 1056 are interchangeable.

Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, an adjustable seat post 20' according to a modification of the adjustable seat post 20 will now be discussed. Basically, the adjustable seatpost 20' (bicycle electric component) includes a supporting member 1050', a movable member 1052' (for example, a valve), an electric actuation unit 1054', and a wireless communication unit 1056'. Here, the adjustable seatpost 20 ′ (bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 1058 ′, which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 1054 ′ to the bicycle frame 12.

In the adjustable seatpost 20, the support structure 1050' is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 1054' and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1056'. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1056' includes the first housing 1060' forming the first part of the supporting structure 1050' in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 656, and the electric actuation unit 1054' is the same as the wireless communication unit 662' The manner includes a second housing 1062'.

Here, the electric actuation unit 1054' and the wireless communication unit 1056' are detachably coupled together using a hinged cover 1071'. Here, the hinged covering member 1071' is hingedly mounted to the second housing 1062' between the closed position and the open position. The hinged covering member 1071' is provided with a latch which engages with the catch of the second housing 1062', so that the hinged covering member 1071' is held in the closed position by the snap connection. The rear derailleur 42' uses a covering member 1071' which is hinged to the user of the front derailleur 640. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1056' is equivalent to the wireless communication units 656 and 956' discussed above. Therefore, the wireless communication units 656, 956' and 1056' are interchangeable.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 36 and 37, the rear shock absorber 18 according to the first embodiment will now be discussed. As seen in FIG. 1, the rear shock absorber 18 is installed between the main frame 12 and the rear rocker arm 16. Here, although the bicycle computer 44 is set to the suspension adjustment mode, one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 is based on the memory stored in the bicycle computer 44 The shift program can be used to control the rear shock 18.

Basically, the rear shock absorber 18 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting member 1150, a movable member 1152 (for example, a valve), an electric actuation unit 1154, and a wireless communication unit 1156. Here, the rear shock absorber 18 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 1158 which is configured to mount the electric actuating unit 1154 to the bicycle frame 12.

In the rear shock absorber 18, the support structure 1150 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 1154 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1156. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1156 includes the first housing 1160 forming the first part of the support structure 1150 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 456, and the electric actuation unit 1154 includes the second housing in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 462.体1162.

Here, the electric actuation unit 1154 and the wireless communication unit 1156 are detachably coupled together using the same snap connection as the user of the front derailleur 440. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1156 is equivalent to the wireless communication units 456, 956, and 1056 discussed above. Therefore, the wireless communication units 456, 956, 1056, and 1156 are interchangeable.

Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, a rear shock absorber 18' according to a modification of the rear shock absorber 18 will now be discussed. Basically, the rear shock absorber 18' (a bicycle electrical component) includes a support member 1150', a movable member 1152' (for example, a valve), an electric actuation unit 1154', and a wireless communication unit 1156'. Here, the rear shock absorber 18 ′ (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 1158 ′, which is configured to mount the electric actuation unit 1154 ′ to the bicycle frame 12.

In the rear shock absorber 18, the support structure 1150' is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 1154' and is partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1156'. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1156' includes the first housing 1160' forming the first part of the supporting structure 1150' in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 656, and the electric actuation unit 1154' is the same as the wireless communication unit 662' The way includes a second housing 1162.

Here, the electric actuation unit 1154' and the wireless communication unit 1156' are removably coupled together using a hinged cover 1171'. Here, the hinged covering member 1171' is hingedly mounted to the second housing 1162' between the closed position and the open position. The hinged covering member 1171' is provided with a latch, which engages with the catch of the second housing 1162', so that the hinged covering member 1171' is held in the closed position by the snap connection. The rear derailleur 42' uses a covering member 1071' which is hinged to the user of the front derailleur 640. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1056' is equivalent to the wireless communication units 656, 956' and 1156' discussed above. Therefore, the wireless communication units 656, 956', 1056' and 1156' are interchangeable.

Referring now to FIGS. 40 to 49, a front derailleur 1240 according to another embodiment will now be discussed. The front derailleur 1240 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. The front derailleur 1240 can receive control signals from one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 wirelessly or using power line communication. The basic operation of the front derailleur 1240 is equivalent to that of the front derailleur 40.

The front derailleur 1240 is substantially equivalent to the front derailleur 40, except that the power supply connection has been modified and the wireless communication unit installation structure has been modified. In view of the similarity between the front derailleur 40 and 1240, the structure of the previous derailleur 1240 that is substantially equivalent or equivalent to the corresponding structure of the front derailleur 40 will not be discussed here for the sake of brevity.

Basically, the front derailleur 1240 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 1250, a movable member 1252, an electric actuation unit 1254, and a wireless communication unit 1256. The movable member 1252 is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 1254 to move the movable member 1252 in the first (retracted) position and the second (extended) position by the linkage group 1257. Here, the front derailleur 1240 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 1258 which is configured to support the electric actuation unit 1254 relative to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuation unit 1254 can be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. In addition, the movable member 1252 includes a chain guide 1252a to move the chain guide 1252a between the first position and the second position similar to the first embodiment discussed above. Therefore, the base member 1258 is also configured to support the chain guide 1252a relative to the bicycle frame 12.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 40 to 42. The cable (power supply line) PLC is directly connected to (that is, plugged into) the electric actuation unit 1254 (refer to FIG. 42), or is directly connected (that is, plugged into) the wireless Communication unit 1256 (refer to Figure 40). In particular, the cable (power supply line) PLC has a first end, which is detachably connected to the electric actuation unit 1254 for supplying power from the power supply unit (for example, the power supply unit 38 of FIG. 1) . Similar to the first embodiment, the cable PLC has a second end, which is detachably connected to a wiring connector (not shown) for receiving power and/or control signals via power line communication. When the wireless communication unit 1256 is installed on the front derailleur 1240 and wirelessly receives control signals from one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48, the cable PLC can It is used to supply power only to the electric actuation unit 1254. However, when the wireless communication unit 1256 is not installed or used, the cable PLC can be used to use power line communication to transfer control signals from one of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 Or both are transmitted to the electric actuation unit 1254. However, even when the wireless communication unit 1256 is installed on the front derailleur 1240, the cable PLC can be used to supply power to the electric actuation unit 1254, and to transmit power from the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical A control signal for one or both of the component operating devices 48. In such a case, the wireless communication unit 1256 can be used for wireless communication with other devices such as smart phones or personal computers, for example to update the memory stored in at least one of the bicycle electrical components Firmware.

In the front derailleur 1240, the supporting structure 1250 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 1254 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1256. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes a first housing 1260. The electric actuation unit 1254 includes a second housing 1262. The second housing 1262 is different from the first housing 1260 (that is, the first housing 1260 and the second housing 62 are separate and different components). The supporting structure 1250 is disposed on at least one of the first housing 1260 and the second housing 1262. Here, the supporting structure 1250 includes a mating portion 1250 a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 1262. The supporting structure 1250 includes a first space 1250b formed by the second housing 1262 of the electric actuation unit 1254, and the mating portion 1250a of the first housing 1260 will be supported in the first space 1250b.

Referring now to FIGS. 45 to 49, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes an electrical connector 1264, which is configured to be plugged into the second housing 1262 of the electrical actuation unit 1254. Here, the electrical connector 1264 is an electrical male plug connector such as an SD50 male electrical connector. The wireless communication unit 1256 further includes a wireless communication component 1266 which is housed in the first housing 1260. The electrical connector 1264 is electrically connected to the wireless communication member 1266. The wireless communication member 1266 includes a printed circuit board on which a two-way wireless communication circuit is printed. Preferably, the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component 1266 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

As seen in FIGS. 46 and 47, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes at least one electrical port 1268, which is configured to be connected to the cable PLC (see FIG. 42). Here, the electrical port 1268 is an electrical female electrical socket or port like an SD50 female electrical socket. In this way, the wireless communication unit 1256 can receive power from a power supply unit (for example, the power supply unit 38 of FIG. 1).

As seen in FIGS. 42 to 44, the electric actuation unit 1254 includes at least one electric port 1270, which is constructed as an electric connector 1264 connected to the wireless communication unit 1256. The electrical port 1270 is constructed to be electrically connected to the electrical connector 1264 when the first housing 1260 is disposed in the first space 1250b. Here, the electrical port 1270 is an electrical female electrical socket or port like an SD50 female electrical socket. Therefore, in this embodiment, the electrical connector 1264 cooperates with the electrical port 1270 to establish an electrical connection between the electrical actuation unit 1254 and the wireless communication unit 1256. Furthermore, the mating connection between the electric actuation unit 1254 and the wireless communication unit 1256 keeps the wireless communication unit on the electric actuation unit 1254.

The at least one electrical port 1270 of the electrical actuation unit 1254 is configured to be selectively connected to the cable PLC when the electrical connector 1264 of the wireless communication unit 1256 is disconnected from the at least one electrical port 1270 of the electrical actuation unit 1254.

As seen in Figure 40, Figure 42, and Figure 46, the wireless communication unit 1256 electrical connector 1264 is constructed to be connected to the electrical port 1270 of the electrical actuation unit 1254 in the first connection direction D1, and the electrical connection of the wireless communication unit 1256 The port 1268 is constructed to be connected to the cable PLC in a second connection direction D2 that is different from the first connection direction D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connection direction D1 is perpendicular to the second connection direction D2. At least one electrical port of the electrical actuation unit 1254 and at least one electrical port 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256 have the same electrical connector mating structure. In this way, the cable PLC can be selectively plugged into the electric port 1254 of the electric actuation unit 1254 or the electric port 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the cable PLC is plugged into the electrical port 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the cable PLC can be installed in the first housing 1260 of the wireless communication unit 1256. Is directly wired to the wireless communication member 1266. In other words, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes at least one of an electrical port and a cable, which is disposed at the first housing 1260. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes a cover 1271 that is removably coupled to the first housing 1260 to selectively cover the first housing 1260 At least one electrical port 1268 (ie, SD50 female electrical socket). In this way, the SD50 female electrical socket can be covered for waterproof and dustproof when the PLC cable is not plugged into the electrical port 1268.

As seen in FIG. 44, the electric actuation unit 1254 includes an electric actuator 1280 and a gear reduction unit 1282, which are housed in the second housing 1262. The electric actuator 1280 is electrically connected to a printed circuit board (not shown), which has the same function as the printed circuit board 74 of the first embodiment. In the front derailleur 1240, the electric actuator 1280 is a reversible electric motor. The electric actuator 1280 is constructed to actuate the movable member 1252 in the same manner as the first embodiment. A position sensor (not shown) is provided in the gear reduction unit 1282 to detect the amount of rotational movement output by the gear reduction unit 1282. The printed circuit board of the electric actuator unit 1254 is provided with an actuator driver (not shown) for controlling the electric actuator 1280 and a position detection circuit for determining the amount of rotational movement output by the gear reduction unit 1282. Position sensors and actuator (motor) drives are well known in the bicycle field, so they will not be discussed here.

Referring now to FIGS. 50 to 56, a rear derailleur 1342 according to another embodiment will now be discussed. The rear derailleur 1342 can be installed to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the rear derailleur 42 so as to be operated by one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48. The rear derailleur 1342 can receive control signals from one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 wirelessly or using power line communication. The basic operation of the rear derailleur 1342 is equivalent to that of the rear derailleur 42.

The rear derailleur 1342 is substantially equivalent to the rear derailleur 42, except that the power supply connection has been modified and the wireless communication unit installation structure has been modified. In view of the similarity between the rear derailleur 42 and 1342, the structure of the rear derailleur 1342 that is substantially equivalent or equivalent to the corresponding structure of the rear derailleur 42 will not be discussed here for the sake of brevity.

Basically, the rear derailleur 1342 (a bicycle electric component) includes a supporting structure 1350, a movable member 1352, an electric actuation unit 1354, and a wireless communication unit 1356. The movable member 1352 is operatively coupled to the electric actuation unit 1354 to move the movable member 1352 in the first (retracted) position and the second (extended) position through the linkage group 1257. Here, the rear derailleur 1342 (a bicycle electric component) further includes a base member 1358 configured to support the electric actuation unit 1354 relative to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 1352 includes a chain guide 1352a to move the chain guide 1352a between the first position and the second position similar to the rear derailleur 42 discussed above. Therefore, the base member 1358 is also constructed to support the chain guide 1352a relative to the bicycle frame 12.

In this embodiment, similar to the front derailleur 1240, the cable line (power supply line) PLC can be directly connected to (that is, plugged into) the electric actuation unit 1354, or directly connected to (That is, plugged in) the wireless communication unit 1356 (refer to FIG. 50). In particular, the cable (power supply line) PLC has a first end, which is detachably connected to the electric actuation unit 1354 for supplying power from the power supply unit (for example, the power supply unit 38 of FIG. 1) . Similar to the rear derailleur 42, the cable PLC has a second end, which is detachably connected to a wiring connector (not shown) for receiving power and/or control signals via power line communication. When the wireless communication unit 1356 is installed on the rear derailleur 1342 and wirelessly receives control signals from one or both of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48, the cable PLC can It is used to supply power only to the electric actuation unit 1354. However, when the wireless communication unit 1356 is not installed or used, the cable PLC can be used to use power line communication to transfer control signals from one of the first electrical component operating device 46 and the second electrical component operating device 48 Or both are transmitted to the electric actuation unit 1354. However, even when the wireless communication unit 1356 is installed on the rear derailleur 1342, the cable PLC can be used to supply power to the electric actuation unit 1354, and to transmit power from the first electric component operating device 46 and the second electric A control signal for one or both of the component operating devices 48. In such a case, the wireless communication unit 1356 can be used for wireless communication with other devices such as a smart phone or a personal computer, for example to update the memory stored in at least one of the bicycle electrical components Firmware.

In the rear derailleur 1342, the support structure 1350 is partially defined by the electric actuation unit 1354 and is partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1356. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1356 includes a first housing 1360. The electric actuation unit 1354 includes a second housing 1362. Here, the supporting structure 1350 includes a mating portion 1350 a (protruding portion) for engaging the second housing 1362. The supporting structure 1350 includes a first space 1350b formed by the second housing 1362 of the electric actuation unit 1354, and the mating portion 1350a of the first housing 1360 will be supported in the first space 1350b. The first housing 1360 further includes a resilient hook 1363, which assists in supporting and holding the first housing 1360 on the second housing 1362. Therefore, the flexible hook 1363 is a part of the support structure 1350. Here, the flexible hook 1363 engages the edge or notch of the second housing 1362 through buckling during the insertion of the mating portion 1350a (protruding portion) into the first space 1350b of the second housing 1362.

Referring now to FIGS. 53 to 56, the wireless communication unit 1356 includes an electrical connector 1364, which is configured to be plugged into the second housing 1362 of the electrical actuation unit 1354. Here, the electrical connector 1364 is an electrical male plug connector such as an SD50 male electrical connector. Similar to the wireless communication unit 1256 discussed above, the wireless communication unit 1356 further includes a wireless communication member, which is housed in the first housing 1360. The electrical connector 1364 is electrically connected to the wireless communication member. The wireless communication component includes a printed circuit board on which a two-way wireless communication circuit is printed. Preferably, the printed circuit board of the wireless communication component includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

As seen in FIG. 56, the wireless communication unit 1356 includes at least one electrical port 1368, which is configured to be connected to the cable PLC (see FIG. 42). Here, the electrical port 1368 is an electrical female electrical socket or port like an SD50 female electrical socket. In this way, the wireless communication unit 1356 can receive power from a power supply unit (for example, the power supply unit 38 of FIG. 1).

As seen in FIGS. 42 to 44, the electric actuation unit 1354 includes at least one electric port 1370, which is configured to form an electric connector 1364 connected to the wireless communication unit 1356. The electrical port 1370 is constructed to be electrically connected to the electrical connector 1364 when the first housing 1360 is disposed in the first space 1350b. Here, the electrical port 1370 is an electrical female electrical socket or port like an SD50 female electrical socket. Therefore, in this embodiment, the electrical connector 1364 cooperates with the electrical port 1370 to establish an electrical connection between the electrical actuation unit 1354 and the wireless communication unit 1356. Furthermore, the mating connection between the electric actuation unit 1354 and the wireless communication unit 1356 keeps the wireless communication unit on the electric actuation unit 1354.

The at least one electrical port 1370 of the electrical actuation unit 1354 is configured to be selectively connected to the cable PLC when the electrical connector 1364 of the wireless communication unit 1356 is disconnected from the at least one electrical port 1370 of the electrical actuation unit 1354. In this way, the cable PLC can be selectively plugged into the electrical port 1368 of the electrical actuation unit 1354 or the electrical port 1368 of the wireless communication unit 1356. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the cable PLC is plugged into the electrical port 1368 of the wireless communication unit 1356, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the cable PLC can be installed in the first housing 1360 of the wireless communication unit 1356. Is directly wired to the wireless communication member 1366. In other words, the wireless communication unit 1356 includes at least one of an electrical port and a cable, which is disposed at the first housing 1360.

Although only selected embodiments are illustrated for the front derailleur, rear derailleur, adjustable seatpost, and bicycle suspension, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the features and characteristics of each of the illustrated embodiments are The illustrated variants can be applied to each of the front derailleur, rear derailleur, adjustable seatpost and bicycle suspension. Also, although the depiction of the front suspension fork does not show the detachable wireless communication unit with the present invention, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the features and modifications of each of the illustrated illustrated embodiments are shown Can be applied to front suspension forks.

The term "wireless communication unit" as used herein includes a transceiver or a transmitter-receiver, and is conceived as any device or digital device (separate or combined) capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The wireless signal includes information about the controlled The speed signal or control, command or other signal or firmware of some functions of the component.

When understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "including" and its extensions used herein are intended to be open-ended terms that define the appearance of the features, elements, components, groups, wholes, and/or steps. However, other unstated features, elements, components, groups, wholes, and/or steps are not excluded. The above also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "include", "have" and their derivatives. In addition, "part", "section", "part", "member" or "element" can have the dual meaning of a single part or plural parts when used in the singular form, unless otherwise stated.

As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "backward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "Above", "below", "up", "down", "top", "bottom", "side", "upright", "horizontal", "vertical" or "crosscut" and other similar directionality The terms refer to those directions of a bicycle equipped with bicycle electrical components in an upright and riding position. Therefore, the directional terms used to describe the bicycle control device should be interpreted relative to a bicycle equipped with a bicycle control device in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle and referred to from the right, and to indicate "left" when viewed from the rear of the bicycle and referred to from the left.

Also, it will be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. Therefore, for example, the first element discussed above may be used as the second element, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention. The terms "attached" and "attached" as used herein cover: by directly fixing a component to another component so that the component is directly secured to the configuration of another component; by fixing the component to The intermediate member is then fixed to another element so that the element is indirectly secured to the configuration of the other element; and one element is integrally formed with the other element (that is, one element is essentially a part of the other element) The configuration. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as: "be connected", "connected", "coupled", "installed", "bonded", "fixed" and their derivatives. Finally, the terms "substantially", "approximately", and "approximately" as used here mean the amount of variation of the modified terms so that the final result will not change significantly.

Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to describe the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended patent application, here Various changes and modifications can be made. For example, unless specifically stated otherwise, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components can be changed as needed and/or desired, as long as such changes do not materially affect their intended functions. Unless specifically stated otherwise, components shown as directly connected or in contact with each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them, as long as such changes do not materially affect their intended functions. The function of one element can be performed by two elements, and vice versa, unless specifically stated otherwise. The structure and function of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages need not be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Each feature (alone or in combination with other features) specific to the prior art should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and/or functional concepts implemented by such features. Therefore, the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention is only provided as an illustration and not for the purpose of limiting the present invention. The present invention is defined by the scope of the attached patent application and its equivalents.

40‧‧‧Front derailleur

50‧‧‧Supporting structure

50a‧‧‧Matching part

50b‧‧‧First Space

52‧‧‧movable component

52a‧‧‧Chain guide

54‧‧‧Electric Actuating Unit

56‧‧‧Wireless communication unit

57‧‧‧Connecting rod group

58a‧‧‧Second buckle structure

60‧‧‧First shell

60a‧‧‧First fastening structure

62‧‧‧Second shell

70‧‧‧Second electric contact

73‧‧‧Electric port

76‧‧‧First electrical port

PLC1‧‧‧Cable

Claims (15)

An electric rear derailleur for bicycles, comprising: a wireless communication unit, which is configured to receive wireless control signals wirelessly; an electric port: and a cable, which is configured to be plugged into the electric port, wherein the cable is built When the wireless communication unit is not in use, it is used to transmit power line control signals. According to item 1 of the scope of patent application, the electric rear derailleur for bicycles, wherein the electric port is a female electric socket. According to the electric rear derailleur for bicycle described in the first item of the scope of patent application, the wireless communication unit is configured to receive electric power from a power source via the cable. The electric rear derailleur for bicycles according to the first item of the scope of patent application, wherein the wireless communication unit includes the electric port. The electric rear derailleur for a bicycle according to claim 4, wherein the wireless communication unit includes a first housing and the electric port is provided in the first housing. The electric rear derailleur for bicycles according to item 1 of the scope of patent application, wherein The wireless communication unit includes a wireless communication component, which includes a two-way wireless communication circuit and an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. According to the electric rear derailleur of a bicycle according to the first item of the scope of patent application, the wireless communication unit is constructed to wirelessly communicate with at least one of a smart phone and a personal computer. The electric rear derailleur for bicycles according to item 1 of the scope of patent application further includes a supporting structure that detachably supports the wireless communication unit. The electric rear derailleur for bicycles according to the first item of the scope of patent application further includes: a movable member; and an electric actuation unit, which is configured to actuate the movable member. The electric rear derailleur for a bicycle according to item 9 of the scope of patent application, wherein the electric actuation unit is configured to receive electric power from a power source via the cable. The electric rear derailleur for bicycles according to item 9 of the scope of patent application, wherein the electric actuation unit is configured to receive the power line control signal from the cable line or the wireless control signal from the wireless communication unit. The electric rear derailleur of a bicycle according to item 9 of the scope of patent application, wherein the electric actuation unit includes the electric port. The electric rear derailleur of a bicycle according to item 9 of the scope of patent application further includes: a base member configured to support the electric actuation unit relative to the bicycle. According to the electric rear derailleur for bicycle described in item 13 of the scope of patent application, the movable member includes a chain guide and the base member is configured to support the chain guide relative to the bicycle. An electric rear derailleur for bicycles, comprising: a wireless communication unit, which is constructed to receive control signals wirelessly; and an electric port, which is constructed to be detachably connected to a cable, wherein the wireless communication unit is constructed It is used for wireless communication of smartphones or personal computers to update firmware.

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