TWI826447B - Component for propelled vehicle including bicycle - Google Patents

Abstract

A component is provided for a propelled vehicle including a bicycle. The component basically comprises a base member, a switch, a switch operating portion and a cover. The switch is mounted on the base member. The switch operating portion operates the switch. The cover is configured to be disposed in a covering position covering the switch operating portion to prohibit operation of the switch and a non-covering position revealing the switch operating portion to permit operation of the switch.

Description

Components for propelled vehicles including bicycles

The present invention generally relates to assemblies for propelled vehicles, including bicycles.

Generally speaking, propelled vehicles, including bicycles, have one or more components used to operate one or more other components. Sometimes the components include one or more switches for the user to operate one or more other components. The one or more switches may send operating signals to the electronic controller wirelessly or via wires.

In summary, the disclosure herein is directed to various features of components for propelled vehicles, including bicycles. Preferably, this assembly is used with small vehicles including bicycles. Small vehicles referred to here refer to electric and non-electric vehicles regardless of the number of wheels, but do not include four-wheel vehicles with an internal combustion engine as the power source for driving the wheels, and vehicles that must be licensed to operate on public roads. Four-wheel electric vehicle.

It has been discovered that because users' hands vary in size, the assembly may not feel comfortable for all user hand sizes. Additionally, it has been found that sometimes one or more switches are only used when the propelled vehicle is stopped.

An object of the present invention is to provide an assembly having a cover, wherein the cover is configured to be disposed in a covering position covering a switch operating portion of the switch to inhibit operation of the switch, and to expose the switch operating portion to allow operation of the switch. Non-covered locations.

Another object is to provide an assembly with a cover that is interchangeable with additional covers to form different body configurations. Preferably, one of the cover and the additional cover contains an electrical device.

In view of the state of the known art and according to a first aspect of the invention, an assembly for a propelled vehicle including a bicycle is provided. This assembly basically includes a base member, a switch, a switch operating part, and a cover. The switch is mounted on the base member. The switch operation section operates the switch. The cover is configured to be disposed in a covered position covering the switch operating portion to inhibit operation of the switch, and in a non-covered position exposing the switch operating portion to allow operation of the switch.

With the assembly according to the first aspect, accidental operation of the switch operating portion of the switch can be avoided by placing the cover in the covering position, and operation of the switching portion of the switch can be permitted by placing the cover in the non-covering position.

According to the second aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to the first aspect is constructed such that the switch operating portion is constructed to be pressed to operate the switch.

With the assembly according to the second aspect, the user can easily operate the switch.

According to a third aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to the first or second aspect is constructed such that the cover is removably attached to the base member.

With an assembly according to the third aspect, the cover can be removed as needed to provide better access to the switch.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, preferably, the assembly according to any one of the first to third aspects further comprises an additional cover, which additional cover can be interchangeably attached to the base member in place of the cover, so as to The body configuration of the base member is formed in a covering position in which the operating portion of the switch is covered to inhibit operation of the switch. The body configuration of the base member formed by the additional cover provided in the covering position is different from the body configuration formed by the cover attached to the base member.

With a component according to the fourth aspect, the component can be customized to better suit a particular user of the component and/or a particular purpose.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to the fourth aspect is constructed such that the base member includes a rider grip portion and a pommel portion. The rider grip portion has a handlebar attachment end. The cover is attached to the saddle portion and/or the rider grip portion. The cover and additional cover are sized relative to each other such that the cover, when attached to the base member, forms a first maximum dimension of the saddle portion and/or rider grip portion. The cover and additional cover are further sized relative to each other such that the additional cover, when attached to the base member, forms a second maximum dimension of the saddle portion and/or rider grip portion. The first maximum size is different from the second maximum size.

With an assembly according to the fifth aspect, the assembly can be used with a drop handlebar and can be customized to better suit a particular user.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided an assembly for a propelled vehicle including a bicycle. This assembly basically consists of a base member and a cover. The cover is interchangeably attached to the base member to form an initial body configuration. The cover may be interchanged with an additional cover to create a different body configuration than the original body configuration. The cover contains the electrical device. The additional cover contains the electrical device and/or is at least five millimeters higher than the cover.

With an assembly according to the sixth aspect, the assembly can be used with a Shen Jiang handlebar, and the assembly can be customized to better suit a particular user.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to the sixth aspect is constructed such that the additional cover is at least five millimeters higher than the cover, preferably at least ten millimeters higher.

With an assembly according to the seventh aspect, the assembly can be customized to better suit a particular user.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, preferably, the assembly according to the sixth or seventh aspect is constructed such that each of the electrical devices includes at least one of a switch, a power supply, and a wireless communication unit.

With an assembly according to the eighth aspect, the assembly can be customized by selecting a cover for the electrical device having a desired configuration.

According to a ninth aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to any one of the sixth to eighth aspects is constructed such that the base member includes a rider grip portion and a saddle portion. The rider grip portion has a handlebar attachment end. Preferably, the cover is attached to the saddle portion and/or the rider grip portion.

With an assembly according to the ninth aspect, the assembly can be used with a Shen Jiang handlebar, and the assembly can be customized to better suit a particular purpose. In addition, the design freedom of the assembly can be increased, and the electrical device can be positioned on the assembly in a protected and/or convenient location.

According to the tenth aspect of the invention, preferably, the assembly according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is constructed such that the cover is fixed to the base member by means of the fixing member, or is hingedly ( hingedly) attached to the base member.

With the component according to the tenth aspect, switches or electrical devices can be easily connected.

According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is constructed such that the cover is attached to the base member by snap-fit.

With the assembly according to the eleventh aspect, the cover can be easily removed as needed.

According to a twelfth aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects is constructed such that the assembly is a bicycle assembly.

A component according to the twelfth aspect may be used to operate other bicycle components.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, preferably, the assembly according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects further comprises an operating member, the operating member being movably coupled relative to the base member, more preferably The operating member includes a shift lever pivotally coupled relative to the base member, and/or a brake lever pivotally coupled relative to the base member.

With the assembly according to the thirteenth aspect, another assembly can be easily operated, preferably the assembly can be used to shift the bicycle gear changing device, and/or the assembly can be used to operate the braking device.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, preferably, the assembly according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects further comprises a grip cover made of elastic material. Preferably the grip is stretched over the base member.

With the assembly according to the fourteenth aspect, the user can comfortably hold the base member.

According to the fifteenth aspect of the invention, preferably the assembly according to the fourteenth aspect is constructed such that the grip includes a first grip part, and a second grip part detachable from the first grip part. Even better the second grip part of the grip is interchangeable with an additional grip part.

With an assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, the grip sleeve can be selectively customized to match a specific body configuration of the assembly.

Furthermore, other purposes, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed components will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the disclosed components together with the accompanying drawings.

Reference is made below to the attached drawings which formed a part of this original disclosure.

Selected embodiments are described below with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of propelled vehicles from this disclosure that the following description of the embodiments is provided by way of illustration only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the accompanying claims and their equivalents. .

Referring first to Figure 1, there is shown a side view of a bicycle 1 which is an example of a propelled vehicle and in particular a small vehicle. Basically, the bicycle frame F has a frame body FB and a front fork FF. The front fork FF is pivotally supported by the frame body FB to pivot about an inclined upright axis at the front of the frame body FB. Here, bicycle 1 is shown as a road bike. The bicycle 1 further includes a drop handlebar H coupled to the front fork FF, and a saddle or seat S coupled to the frame body FB via an electrically adjustable seatpost SP. The front fork FF rotatably supports the front wheel FW at the lower end of the front fork FF. The front wheel FW has a front brake rotor BR1 attached to the hub of the front wheel FW such that the front brake rotor BR1 rotates integrally with the front wheel FW. The frame body FB rotatably supports the rear wheel RW, and the wheel RW is then rotatably supported on the rear portion of the frame body FB. The rear wheel RW has a rear brake rotor BR2 which is attached to the hub of the rear wheel RW such that the rear brake rotor BR2 rotates integrally with the rear wheel RW. The front fork FF is provided with a front disc brake caliper BC1 for applying braking force to the front brake rotor BR1, and the frame body FB is provided with a rear disc brake caliper BC2 for applying braking force to the rear brake rotor BR2. Here, the front disc brake caliper BC1 and the rear disc brake caliper BC2 are hydraulic disc brake calipers. The bicycle 1 is also provided with a drive train DT for propelling the bicycle 1 . Here, the bicycle 1 further includes a front electric derailleur FD and a rear electric derailleur RD for shifting or shifting the chain C in a conventional manner.

The bicycle and the above-mentioned bicycle components are known in the art and therefore the bicycle 1 and the above-mentioned bicycle components will not be discussed or shown in detail here. Instead, the bicycle 1 and the bicycle components described above will only be discussed to the extent necessary to understand the invention.

And, as seen in FIG. 1 , the assembly 10A is provided for a propelled vehicle including a bicycle 1 . Here, in the illustrated embodiment, assembly 10A is a bicycle assembly. As seen in Figure 2, the bicycle 1 is provided with a further component 10B which is a bicycle component. Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle assembly 10A and the bicycle assembly 10B are mounted on the handlebar H. As shown in FIG. Bicycle assembly 10A and bicycle assembly 10B are configured as bicycle operating devices. More specifically, bicycle assembly 10A and bicycle assembly 10B are configured as a road brifter (ie, a combined road shifter and brake operating device).

In the first embodiment, the bicycle components 10A and 10B are configured to be mounted on the drop handlebar H. As shown in FIG. However, the structure of bicycle assemblies 10A and 10B may be applied to other operating devices mounted on other types of handlebars, such as flat handlebars, time trial handlebars, and bull horn handlebars. .

Additionally, it will be apparent to those familiar with the field of propelled vehicles that bicycle components 10A and 10B may be used to operate other bicycle components of bicycle 1 . For example, the present invention can be applied to an electric front derailleur, an electric rear derailleur, an electric assist module, an electric suspension device, or an electric adjustable seat post. Also, although the invention is shown as being applied to a bicycle operating device, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the invention may be adapted to other electrical components for propelled vehicles.

In the first embodiment, the bicycle assembly 10A operates at least the front electric derailleur FD and the front disc brake caliper BC1, while the bicycle assembly 10B operates at least the rear electric derailleur RD and the rear disc brake caliper BC2. As seen in Figure 1, bicycle assembly 10A is fluidly connected to the front disc brake caliper BC1 via hydraulic hose H1, while bicycle assembly 10B is fluidly connected to the rear disc brake caliper BC2 via hydraulic hose H2. The bicycle components 10A and 10B are respectively electrically connected to the front electric derailleur FD and the rear electric derailleur RD via electric wires EC (see FIG. 4 , in which only the electric wires EC for the bicycle component 10B are shown).

In the first embodiment, bicycle components 10A and 10B are operatively coupled to electrical components and hydraulic components. However, each of bicycle components 10A and 10B may be operatively coupled to only a single electrical component. Additionally, each of bicycle components 10A and 10B may be operatively coupled to one or more electrical components, such as a bicycle seatpost, bicycle suspension, bicycle shifter, cycle computer, and smart phone. Smart phone. Alternatively, in addition to at least one electrical component, each of the bicycle components 10A and 10B may be operatively coupled to a mechanical component rather than a hydraulic component. For example, the front disc brake caliper BC1 and the rear disc brake caliper BC2 may be mechanical disc brake calipers instead of hydraulic disc brake calipers.

Bicycle assembly 10A and bicycle assembly 10B are mirror images of each other, so only bicycle assembly 10B will be discussed and shown in detail here. Therefore, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the description of bicycle assembly 10B applies to bicycle assembly 10A.

As mentioned above, assembly 10B is a bicycle assembly configured to be mounted on the handlebar H. As shown in FIG. As seen in FIGS. 2 to 10 , assembly 10B basically includes a base member 12 , a switch 14 , a switch operating portion 16 , and a cover 18 . Here, in the first embodiment, the assembly 10B further includes an operating member 22 movably coupled relative to the base member 12 .

Here, in the first embodiment, the assembly 10B further includes a switch 24, a switch operating part 26, and a cover 28. In the first embodiment, the switch 14 is the same as the switch 24, and the switch operating portion 16 is the same as the switch operating portion 26. However, the positions of the switch 14 and the switch 24 on the base member 12 are different, and the positions of the switch operating portion 16 and the switch operating portion 26 on the base member 12 are different. On the other hand, the cover 18 and the cover 28 have different sizes and shapes depending on their positions on the base member 12 . The manner in which the cover 18 and the cover 28 are mounted to the base member 12 may be the same or different.

Although assembly 10B as seen in Figure 3 includes both switch 14 and switch 24, both switch operating portions 16 and 26, and both cover 18 and cover 28, it will be apparent from this disclosure that Assembly 10B may have only one of switch 14 and switch 24, one of switch operating portion 16 and switch operating portion 26 associated therewith, and one of cover 18 and cover 28 associated therewith. By. Additionally, as seen in Figure 4, assembly 10B may include other switches having switch operating portions covered by a cover. For example, switch 24', switch operating portion 26', and cover 28' may be disposed on the base member 12 on an opposite side from switch 24, switch operating portion 26, and cover 28. Here, in the first embodiment, the switch 24 is the same as the switch 24', and the switch operating portion 26 is the same as the switch operating portion 26'. However, cover 28 and cover 28' have different shapes. Alternatively, cover 28 and cover 28' may have the same shape if needed and/or desired.

And, in the first embodiment, assembly 10B further includes a grip 34 made of elastic material. The grip 34 is stretched over the base member 12 . The grip sleeve 34 also covers the cover members 18, 28, and 28'. In the first embodiment, the base member 12 and the cover members 18, 28, and 28' are made of hard materials such as hard rigid plastic materials. On the other hand, the grip cover 34 is a bracket cover made of elastic material such as rubber, and is used to at least partially cover the base member 12 and the cover members 18, 28, and 28'.

Basically, the base member 12 is a member that is fixed in a state where the assembly 10B is mounted on the sinker handlebar H. In the first embodiment, the base member 12 includes a rider grip portion 12a and a pommel portion 12b. Rider grip portion 12a has a handlebar attachment end 12c. As seen in Figure 3, the handlebar clamp HC is attached to the handlebar attachment end 12c of the base member 12 in a conventional manner by means of fastening bolts BT.

Cover 18 is attached to saddle portion 12b. Cover 28 and cover 28' are attached to rider grip portion 12a on opposite sides. In particular, the cover 28 is attached to the outwardly facing side of the rider's grip portion 12a facing away from the upright center plane of the bicycle 1 . The cover 28' is attached to the inwardly facing side of the rider grip portion 12a facing the upright center plane of the bicycle 1. The grip sleeve 34 also covers most of the rider's grip portion 12a and the saddle bridge portion 12b, except for the covers 18, 28, and 28'.

Rider grip portion 12a extends from handlebar attachment end 12c to distal portion 12d. The saddle portion 12b extends forward and upward from the distal portion 12d in the installed state in which the base member 12 is mounted on the drop handlebar H. In the first embodiment, the rider's grip portion 12a and the saddle portion 12b mainly constitute the main body. Here, the rider grip portion 12a and the saddle portion 12b are integrally formed as a one-piece member from a single material, and the covers 18, 28, and 28' are attached to the base member 12. Therefore, here, the rider's grip portion 12a, the saddle portion 12b, and the cover members 18, 28, and 28' form the main body. The rider grip portion 12a and the saddle portion 12b are preferably injection molded from a resin material. Likewise, the cover members 18, 28, and 28' are preferably injection molded from a resin material. Here, the covers 18, 28, and 28' are shown to be made of transparent plastic material.

Switch 14, switch 24, and switch 24' may be used to operate a variety of different electrical devices. As will be explained below, signals from switch 14, switch 24, and switch 24' may be transmitted via wired communication or via wireless communication. In the case of bicycle 1 , switch 14 , switch 24 , and switch 24 ′ may be for bicycle electrical components (ie, electrical devices) such as front electric derailleur FD, rear electric derailleur RD, and/or electric derailleur. One or more mode setting switches in the seatpost SP can be adjusted. Alternatively, switch 14, switch 24, and switch 24' may be used to pair assembly 10B with front electric derailleur FD and/or rear electric derailleur RD in the case of a wireless communication configuration. In the case of a suspension bicycle, switch 14, switch 24, and switch 24' may be used to set one or more of a plurality of bicycle suspension devices.

Here, in the first embodiment, the switch 14 is mounted on the base member 12 . As will be explained below, the switch operating section 16 operates the switch 14 . Likewise, the switch operating portion 26 operates the switch 24, and the switch operating portion 26' operates the switch 24'. The cover 18 is configured to be disposed in a covered position (see FIG. 7 ) that covers the switch operating portion 16 to inhibit operation of the switch 14 , and in a non-covered position (see FIG. 7 ) that exposes the switch operating portion 16 to allow operation of the switch 14 . 8). Therefore, the user cannot operate the switch 14 with the cover 18 in the covering position (see Figure 7). In this way, switch 14 cannot be accidentally operated. The switch 14 is an electrical switch provided on the printed circuit board PCB. The switch operating portion 16 is configured to be pressed to operate the switch 14 . By pressing the switch operating portion 16, the switch 14 generates a signal, and this signal can be transmitted via a wire or wirelessly.

Because switch 24 and switch 24' are identical in construction to switch 14, switch 24 and switch 24' will not be discussed in detail here. In contrast, switch 24 and switch 24' will only be discussed briefly. Switch 24 and switch 24' are electrical switches each provided on a printed circuit board (not shown). Switch 24 is activated by depressing switch operating portion 26. Likewise, switch 24' is activated by depressing switch operating portion 26'.

Here, in the first embodiment, the cover 18 is attached to the saddle portion 12b to cover the switch 14 and the switch operating portion 16. In this manner, cover 18 effectively forms the top surface of saddle portion 12b. Preferably, the cover 18 is removably attached to the base member 12 . In this way, as will be explained below, the (initial) body configuration of the main body (base member 12 and cover 18) can be changed to accommodate different users. Cover 18 may be attached to base member 12 in a variety of different ways. For example, in a first embodiment, as seen in Figures 7 and 8, the cover 18 is hingedly attached to the base member 12. More specifically, the cover 18 includes a hinge portion 18a and a latch portion 18b. The hinge portion 18a is pivotally disposed within the first recess 12e of the saddle portion 12b. Latch portion 18b engages second recess 12f of saddle portion 12b. Preferably, the hinge portion 18a is snap-fitted into the first recess 12e to removably pivotally attach the cover 18 to the base member 12. In this manner, the cover 18 may remain attached to the base member 12 as the cover 18 moves between the covered position (see FIG. 7 ) and the non-covered position (see FIG. 8 ). Additionally, with this configuration, cover 18 may be replaced with another cover of a different size as will be explained below. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the cover 18 is attached to the base member 12 by snap-fitting. Alternatively, the hinge portion 18a of the cover 18 can be replaced with another latch portion such that the cover 18 can be completely disconnected from the base member 12 when the cover 18 is in the uncovered position.

Cover 28 and cover 28' have a similar construction to cover 18 as discussed above. In other words, the cover 28 and the cover 28' are removably hingedly attached to the base member 12. Also, the cover 28 is attached to the base member 12 to move between a covered position covering the switch operating portion 26 to inhibit operation of the switch 24 and an uncovered position exposing the switch operating portion 26 to permit operation of the switch 24 . Likewise, the cover 28' is attached to the base member 12 in a covered position covering the switch operating portion 26' to inhibit operation of the switch 24' and in a covering position exposing the switch operating portion 26' to permit operation of the switch 24'. Move between non-covered locations.

As seen in FIGS. 4 to 6 , the operating member 22 includes a brake lever 22A that is pivotally coupled relative to the base member 12 . The brake lever 22A is pivotally mounted to the base member 12 by means of a pivot pin 36 for pivoting about the pivot axis A1. The brake lever 22A is biased by a biasing element 38 (eg, a spring) to a rest position corresponding to the unbraked position. The user can pivot the brake lever 22A about the pivot axis A1 to an operating or actuated position corresponding to the brake position. The term "rest position" as used herein refers to a position in which a movable component, such as the brake lever 22A, remains stationary when the movable component is not operated by a user. The term "operating or actuating position" as used herein refers to the position in which the movable component, such as brake lever 22A, has been operated by a user to effect operation of a bicycle component, such as rear disc brake caliper BC2.

Here, in a first embodiment, as seen in FIG. 6 , the base member 12 includes a hydraulic unit 40 located within the rider grip portion 12 a of the base member 12 . Basically, the hydraulic unit 40 includes a cylinder bore 42 , a piston 44 , and a connecting rod 46 . Preferably, as seen in Figures 7 and 8, the hydraulic unit 40 further includes a reservoir 48 located within the rider grip portion 12a of the base member 12. The cylinder bore 42 is fluidly connected to the reservoir 48 .

As seen in Figure 6, piston 44 is slidably disposed within cylinder bore 42 to reciprocate along the cylinder bore axis in response to movement of brake lever 22A. In particular, connecting rod 46 has a first end coupled to brake lever 22A, and a second end engaged with piston 44 . The cylinder bore 42 and the piston 44 define a hydraulic chamber that is fluidly connected to a hydraulic hose H2 attached to the base member 12 . The biasing element 38 exerts a biasing force on the connecting rod 46 to bias the piston 44 towards the handlebar attachment end 12c. Brake lever 22A includes a contact portion operatively coupled to connecting rod 46 such that the biasing force from biasing element 38 is transmitted from connecting rod 46 to brake lever 22A. In this manner, brake lever 22A is biased to the rest or non-operated position.

Alternatively, hydraulic unit 40 may be omitted from assembly 10B. And, alternatively, the hydraulic unit 40 may be replaced with a brake cable attachment structure that is attached to the brake lever 22A to operate cable-operated bicycle components.

Also, in the first embodiment, the operating member 22 includes a shift lever 22B that is pivotally coupled relative to the base member 12 . Additionally, in the first embodiment. Operating member 22 includes a shift lever 22C that is pivotally coupled relative to base member 12 . Here, the shift lever 22B and the shift lever 22C are pivotally mounted on the brake lever 22A about the pivot axis A2. Shift lever 22B and shift lever 22C are configured to operate a pair of first and second electrical switches S1 and S2 also mounted on brake lever 22A. Preferably, shift lever 22B and shift lever 22C are biased to the rest position by one or more biasing elements (not shown).

Referring now to Figures 12 to 17, the assembly 10B further includes an additional cover 18A that may be interchangeably attached to the base member 12 in place of the cover 18 to disable the switch 14 when in a position to cover the switch operating portion 16. The operative covered position forms the body configuration of the base member 12 . Assembly 10B further includes an additional cover 28A that may be interchangeably attached to base member 12 in place of cover 28 to cover switch operating portion 26 in a covered position to inhibit operation of switch 24 The body configuration of the base member 12 is formed. An additional cover 18A is attached to the saddle portion 12b in place of the cover 18 to change the overall shape of the saddle portion 12b of the base member 12. An additional cover 28A is attached to the rider grip portion 12a in place of the cover 28 to change the overall shape of the rider grip portion 12a of the base member 12. In other words, the body configuration of the base member 12 formed by the additional cover 18A and/or the additional cover 28A disposed in the covering position is different from that of the cover 18 and/or the cover attached to the base member 12 The (initial) ontology configuration formed by component 28.

In this manner, by selectively using different combinations of cover 18, additional cover 18A, cover 28, and additional cover 28A, the body configuration of base member 12 can be altered to accommodate the particular use or purpose of assembly 10B. specific user. Preferably, the assembly 10B includes a plurality of additional covers of different shapes and/or sizes for customizing the body configuration of the base member 12 to suit a specific use of the assembly 10B or a specific user. Although only a few selected examples of covers are illustrated for attachment to base member 12, it will be apparent from this disclosure that assembly 10B may include many additional covers of varying shapes and/or sizes in addition to those illustrated herein. pieces. Also, although only cover 28' is illustrated as covering switch 24', it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art that assembly 10B may be included in place of the cover if necessary and/or desired. One or more additional covers for 28'.

As seen in FIGS. 7 and 14 , cover 18 and additional cover 18A each have a maximum dimension in a predetermined direction away from base member 12 . The maximum dimensions of cover 18 are different from the maximum dimensions of additional cover 18A. The cover 18 and the additional cover 18A are sized relative to each other such that the cover 18 forms a first maximum dimension PD1 of the saddle portion 12b when attached to the base member 12 . Cover 18 and additional cover 18A are further sized relative to each other such that additional cover 18A, when attached to base member 12, forms a second maximum dimension PD2 of saddle portion 12b, and a second maximum dimension PD2 of saddle portion 12b. The first maximum size PD1 is different from the second maximum size PD2. The ratio of the second maximum size PD2 of the additional cover 18A to the first maximum size PD1 of the cover 18 is 120% to 500% with respect to the maximum size. Preferably, the additional cover 18A is at least five millimeters higher than the cover 18 . Preferably, the additional cover 18A is at least ten millimeters higher than the cover 18 . Regardless, different sized covers for saddle portion 12b have different maximum dimensions in said predetermined direction. The terms “tall” and “higher” as used herein refer to dimensions measured away from the base member 12 . In other words, the terms "high" and "higher" used here are not limited to the vertical direction.

Likewise, as seen in Figures 10 and 17, cover 28 and additional cover 28A are sized relative to each other such that cover 28 forms rider grip portion 12a when attached to base member 12 The first maximum size GD1. Cover 28 and additional cover 28A are further sized relative to each other such that additional cover 28A forms a second maximum dimension GD2 of rider grip portion 12a when attached to base member 12. The first maximum dimension GD1 of the rider's grip portion 12a is different from the second maximum dimension GD2. The ratio of the second maximum size GD2 of the additional cover 28A to the first maximum size GD1 of the cover 28 is 120% to 500% with respect to the maximum size. Preferably, the additional cover 28A is at least five millimeters higher than the cover 28 . Preferably, the additional cover 28A is at least ten millimeters higher than the cover 28 . Regardless, different sized covers for rider grip portion 12a have different maximum dimensions in the predetermined direction.

Grip 34A is used to cover a portion of assembly 10B when additional cover 18A and additional cover 28A are attached to base member 12 . The grip 34A is made of elastic material and is stretched over the base member 12 to at least partially cover the base member 12 and the additional covers 18A and 28A. Of course, assembly 10B may include other shaped grips to accommodate cover 18 , additional cover 18A, cover 28 , and additional cover 28A that are attached to base member 12 .

Referring now to Figure 18, a simplified block diagram of a bicycle assembly 10B is shown in which the bicycle assembly 10B communicates with a pair of electrical devices ED1 and ED2 via at least one wire. The electrical devices ED1 and ED2 may be electrically adjustable seatposts SP, front electric derailleurs FD, rear electric derailleurs RD, bicycle suspension devices (not shown), bicycle computers (not shown), and smart phones ( (not shown). For simplicity, switch 24' and its associated components have been omitted from Figure 18.

Basically, as seen in FIG. 17 , the bicycle assembly 10B further includes an electronic controller 50 that is electrically connected to the switches 14 and 24 to generate a control signal according to the operation of the switches 14 and 24 . Examples of control signals include those used to control an electrically adjustable seat post SP, a front electric derailleur FD, a rear electric derailleur RD, a bicycle suspension device (not shown), a bicycle computer (not shown), and a smartphone (not shown) control signal. Although the electronic controller 50 is shown disposed on the base member 12, the electronic controller 50 may be omitted from the bicycle assembly 10B or provided on another device other than the bicycle assembly 10B.

Electronic controller 50 includes at least one processor 50A and memory 50B. The processor 50A and the memory 50B are electrically mounted on a substrate (eg, a printed circuit board). The processor 50A is electrically connected to the memory 50B via the substrate. Processor 50A includes a central processing unit (CPU). Memory 50B stores programs and other information. Memory 50B includes read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). For example, the program stored in the memory 50B is read into the processor 50A, thereby causing several functions of the electronic controller 50 to be executed.

The switches 14 and 24 are each mounted on a substrate PCB (eg, a printed circuit board) and are electrically connected to the electronic controller 50 through at least one wire. The bicycle assembly 10B further includes a power supply 52 for supplying power to the electronic controller 50 . Here, each base PCB includes a generator 54 and a power storage device 56 forming a power supply 52 . The generator 54 includes at least one piezoelectric element that generates electricity by vibration of the bicycle 1 (ie, the vehicle) and/or by an input force applied to the switch 14 or the switch 24 .

In FIG. 18 , the bicycle assembly 10B further includes an electrical connector 58 for electrically connecting the electrical devices ED1 and ED2 to the electronic controller 50 . The electronic controller 50 is electrically connected to the electrical devices ED1 and ED2 through the electrical cord EC using power line communication technology or dedicated signal lines. Power Line Communication (PLC) carries data over conductors that are also used for power transmission or power distribution to electrical devices ED1 and ED2. In the case of using power line communication technology, the electronic controller 50 includes a PLC controller that receives the input signal generated by the switch 14 or the switch 24 . The PLC controller superimposes the input signal on the power supply voltage flowing in the electrical cord EC. The supply voltage is supplied via electrical cord EC from a power storage device 56 or a remote battery (not shown).

As seen in Figure 19, the electrical connector 58 of the bicycle assembly 10B can be replaced with a wireless communication unit 60 to communicate with the electrical devices ED1 and ED2. The wireless communication unit 60 may be a one-way wireless communication unit including a wireless transmitter, or a two-way wireless communication unit including a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver.

Referring now to Figures 20 and 21, there is shown an assembly 210B provided for a propelled vehicle including a bicycle 1 (Figure 1). Here, in this embodiment, component 210B is a bicycle component. Bicycle assembly 210B is configured as a bicycle operating device. More specifically, bicycle assembly 210B is configured as a road brake (ie, a combined road shifter and brake operating device). Component 210B is the same as component 10B discussed above except as described below. In view of the similarity between component 10B and component 210B, components of component 210B that are the same as components of component 10B will be given the same reference symbols as components of component 10B. Additionally, descriptions of components of assembly 210B that are identical or nearly identical to components of assembly 10B may be omitted for the sake of brevity.

Assembly 210B basically includes a base member 212, a switch 14, a switch operating portion 16, and a cover 218. Here, in this embodiment, assembly 210B further includes an operating member 22 movably coupled relative to base member 212 . Here, in this embodiment, the assembly 210B further includes the switch 24, the switch operating part 26, and the cover 228. Basically, the base member 212, the cover member 218, and the cover member 228 are the same as the base member 12, the cover member 18, and the cover member 28 respectively discussed above, except that the cover member 218 is fixed to the base by the fixing member F1. member 212, and the cover member 228 is fixed to the base member 212 by the fixing member F2. Thus, the base member 212 includes a rider grip portion 212a and a saddle portion 212b. Rider grip portion 212a has a handlebar attachment end 212c at one end and a distal portion 212d at the other end. The operating member 22 is pivotally mounted to the distal portion 212d of the rider grip portion 212a. Assembly 210B also contains the same hydraulic unit (not shown) as hydraulic unit 40 discussed above. Also, cover 218 and cover 228 are hingedly attached to base member 212 and can be removed as needed.

Similar to assembly 10B, assembly 210B includes additional covers 218A that are interchangeable with cover 218 to form different body configurations of the body, and additional covers 228A that are interchangeable with cover 228 to form different body configurations of the body. . Additional cover 218A and additional cover 228A are identical to additional cover 18A and additional cover 28A, respectively, discussed above, except that the latch portion has been provided with a hole for receiving one of securing member F1 and securing member F2 Replaced by the tab. Therefore, the additional cover 218A and the additional cover 228A are hingedly attached to the base member 212 and can be removed as desired.

Referring now to Figures 22 to 28, there is shown an assembly 310B provided for a propelled vehicle including a bicycle 1 (Figure 1). Here, in this embodiment, component 310B is a bicycle component. Bicycle assembly 310B is configured as a bicycle operating device. More specifically, bicycle assembly 310B is configured as a road brake (ie, a combined road shifter and brake operating device). Component 310B is the same as component 10B discussed above except as described below. In view of the similarity between component 10B and component 310B, components of component 310B that are the same as components of component 10B will be given the same reference symbols as components of component 10B. Additionally, descriptions of components of assembly 310B that are identical or nearly identical to components of assembly 10B may be omitted for the sake of brevity.

Assembly 310B includes a base member 312 and a cover 318 . Base member 312 includes a rider grip portion 312a and a saddle portion 312b. Cover 318 is attached to saddle portion 312b by a pair of securing members 315 (only one is shown). Here, cover 318 contains electrical device 320 . The electrical device 320 includes at least one of a switch, a power supply, and a wireless communication unit. Assembly 310B further includes a cover 328 that contains electrical device 330 . The electrical device 330 includes at least one of a switch, a power supply, and a wireless communication unit.

As seen in FIG. 28 , electrical device 320 includes switch 314 and electrical device 330 includes switch 324 . Preferably, each of electrical device 320 and electrical device 330 includes a power supply 352 . For example, each power supply 352 includes a generator 354 and a power storage device 356 . And, as seen in FIG. 28 , each of the electrical device 320 and the electrical device 330 includes a wireless communication unit 362 including an electronic controller 364 and a transmitter 366 .

Cover 318 is interchangeably attached to base member 312 to form a body configuration. Likewise, cover 328 is interchangeably attached to base member 312 to form a body configuration. More specifically, cover 318 may be interchanged with additional cover 318A to form a different body configuration than the original body configuration. Likewise, cover 328 may be interchanged with additional cover 328A to form a different body configuration than the original body configuration. Additional cover 318A contains electrical device 320A. Likewise, additional cover 328A contains electrical device 330A. Electrical device 320A and electrical device 330A have the same configuration as electrical device 320 and electrical device 330 , respectively, seen in FIG. 28 . In this manner, when cover 318 on base member 312 is replaced with additional cover 318A, assembly 310B has the same capabilities as assembly 310B had cover 318. Likewise, when cover 328 on base member 312 is replaced with additional cover 328A, assembly 310B has the same capabilities as assembly 310B had cover 328. The additional cover 318A is at least five millimeters higher than the cover 318 . Likewise, additional cover 328A is at least five millimeters higher than cover 328 . Similar to the previous embodiment, the ratio of additional covers 318A and 328A to the maximum size of covers 318 and 328, respectively, is 120% to 500% relative to the maximum size.

Here, in this embodiment of FIGS. 22 to 28 , assembly 310B further includes an operating member 322 movably coupled relative to base member 312 . The operating member 322 includes a brake lever 322A, which is pivotally mounted on the base member 312 by a pivot pin 336 similar to the first embodiment to pivot about the pivot axis A1 to actuate within the base member 312 hydraulic unit. The operating member 322 also includes a pair of shift levers 322B and 322C pivotally mounted to the brake lever 322A for operating the first electrical switch S1 and the second electrical switch S2. As seen in Figure 28, the operating member 322 is the same as the operating member 22, except that a wireless communication unit 370 has been provided to communicate the signals of the first electrical switch S1 and the second electrical switch S2 directly to another bicycle component, such as the rear Electric derailleur RD (Fig. 1).

Referring now to Figures 29 and 30, instead of using a single one-piece grip, such as grips 34 and 34A, the grip can be formed from multiple interchangeable parts to create the desired grip shape and size. As shown in the figure, the grip 434 includes a first grip component 434a and a second grip component 434b that is detachable from the first grip component 434a. The second grip component 434b of the grip 434 may be interchanged with an additional grip component 434c. Also, the first grip component 434a of the grip 434 may be interchanged with the additional grip component 434a' to form the additional grip 434A. Similar to grips 34 and 34A, grip components 434a, 434a', 434b, and 434c are made of elastic material such as rubber.

By using the grip components 434a, 434a', 434b, and 434c, the grip 434 can be configured to match the cover 18, the additional cover 18A, the cover 28, and the base member 12 of the assembly 10B. Configuration of additional cover 28A. In other words, combinations of grip components 434a, 434a', 434b, and 434c can be used to form different two-piece grips to accommodate cover 18, additional Configuration of cover 18A, cover 28, and additional cover 28A.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives as used herein means to clearly define the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps but not to exclude the presence of other not-stated An open-ended term for the existence of features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps. This also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "include", "have", and their derivatives. Also, the terms "component," "section," "portion," "member," or "element" when used in the singular may have the dual meaning of a single component or a plurality of components unless stated otherwise.

The following directional terms used here are "frame-facing side", "non-frame-facing side", "forward", "rearward", "front", "rear", "up", "down", "above" , "below", "upward", "downward", "top", "bottom", "side", "upright", "horizontal", "vertical", and "lateral" and any other similar directional terms Refers to these directions of a propelled vehicle, including a bicycle, in an upright riding position and equipped with the components described. Accordingly, these directional terms, when used to describe the assembly, should be read relative to a propelled vehicle, including a bicycle, equipped with the assembly in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. The terms "left" and "right" are used when referring to the right side of a propelled vehicle, including bicycles, when viewed from the rear to indicate that "right" side and when referring to the right side of a propelled vehicle, including bicycles, when viewed from the rear. When viewed from behind, the left side indicates the "left" side.

Also, it should 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 component. Thus, for example, a first component discussed above could be termed a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention. As used herein, the terms "attached" or "attached" include arrangements in which one element is directly secured to another element by directly affixing the element to the other element, by affixing the element to an or a plurality of intermediate members and the one or more intermediate members are added to the other element to indirectly fix the element to the configuration of the other element, and one element is integrated with another element, that is, one element Essentially a configuration of part of another component. This definition also applies to words of similar meaning, such as the terms "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "joined," "secured," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree used herein such as "substantially or substantially," "approximately or approximately," and "approximately or approximately" mean that the term they modify has an amount of deviation such that the final result will not significantly change.

Although selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the accompanying claims. Implement various changes and modifications. For example, unless expressly stated otherwise, the size, shape, location, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and/or desired, so long as such changes do not materially affect their intended function. . Unless expressly stated otherwise, components shown as being directly connected or in contact with each other may have intervening structures disposed therebetween, so long as such changes do not materially affect their intended function. The function of one element may be performed by two elements and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The structure and functionality of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages need not be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each unique feature that is different from the prior art, whether alone or in combination with other features, shall also be regarded as a separate description of a further invention of the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such feature. Accordingly, the above description of embodiments according to the present invention is provided for illustration only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

1‧‧‧Bicycle 10A‧‧‧Components, bicycle components 10B‧‧‧Components, bicycle components 12‧‧‧Base component 12a‧‧‧The cyclist’s grip 12b‧‧‧saddle bridge part 12c‧‧‧Handlebar attachment end 12d‧‧‧Distal part 12e‧‧‧First recess 12f‧‧‧Second recess 14‧‧‧switch 16‧‧‧Switch operation part 18‧‧‧Cover 18a‧‧‧Hinge part 18b‧‧‧Latching part 18A‧‧‧Extra cover 22‧‧‧Operating components 22A‧‧‧brake lever 22B‧‧‧Shift lever 22C‧‧‧shift lever 24‧‧‧switch 24’‧‧‧switch 26‧‧‧Switch operation part 26’‧‧‧Switch operating part 28‧‧‧Cover 28’‧‧‧Cover 28A‧‧‧Extra cover 34‧‧‧grip 34A‧‧‧Grip sleeve 36‧‧‧Pivot pin 38‧‧‧Bias component 40‧‧‧Hydraulic unit 42‧‧‧Cylinder bore 44‧‧‧Piston 46‧‧‧Connecting rod 48‧‧‧reservoir 50‧‧‧Electronic Controller 50A‧‧‧Processor 50B‧‧‧Memory 52‧‧‧Power supply 54‧‧‧Generator 56‧‧‧Power storage device 58‧‧‧Electrical Connector 60‧‧‧Wireless communication unit 210B‧‧‧Components, bicycle components 212‧‧‧Base member 212a‧‧‧ Cyclist’s grip 212b‧‧‧saddle bridge part 212c‧‧‧Handlebar attachment end 212d‧‧‧Distal part 218‧‧‧Cover 218A‧‧‧Extra cover 228‧‧‧Cover 228A‧‧‧Extra cover 310B‧‧‧Components, bicycle components 312‧‧‧Base member 312a‧‧‧ Cyclist’s grip 312b‧‧‧saddle bridge part 314‧‧‧switch 315‧‧‧Fixed components 318‧‧‧Cover 318A‧‧‧Extra cover 320‧‧‧Electrical device 320A‧‧‧Electrical device 322‧‧‧Operating components 322A‧‧‧brake lever 322B‧‧‧shift lever 322C‧‧‧shift lever 324‧‧‧switch 328‧‧‧Cover 328A‧‧‧Extra cover 330‧‧‧Electrical device 330A‧‧‧Electrical device 336‧‧‧Pivot pin 352‧‧‧power supply 354‧‧‧Generator 356‧‧‧Power storage device 362‧‧‧Wireless communication unit 364‧‧‧Electronic Controller 366‧‧‧Sender 370‧‧‧Wireless communication unit 434‧‧‧Grip set 434a‧‧‧First grip part 434a’‧‧‧Extra Grip Parts 434b‧‧‧Second Grip Parts 434c‧‧‧Extra Grip Parts 434A‧‧‧Extra Grip A1‧‧‧Pivot axis A2‧‧‧Pivot axis BC1‧‧‧Front disc brake caliper BC2‧‧‧Rear disc brake caliper BR1‧‧‧Front brake rotor BR2‧‧‧Rear brake rotor BT‧‧‧Tightening bolts C‧‧‧Chain DT‧‧‧Transmission system EC‧‧‧Wire rope ED1‧‧‧Electrical device ED2‧‧‧Electrical device F‧‧‧Bicycle frame F1‧‧‧Fixed components F2‧‧‧Fixed components FB‧‧‧Frame body FD‧‧‧Front electric derailleur FF‧‧‧Front fork FW‧‧‧Front wheel GD1‧‧‧The first largest size GD2‧‧‧The second largest size H‧‧‧Sink handlebar H1‧‧‧Hydraulic hose H2‧‧‧Hydraulic hose HC‧‧‧Handlebar Clamp PCB‧‧‧Printed circuit board, substrate PD1‧‧‧The first largest size PD2‧‧‧The second largest size RD‧‧‧Rear electric derailleur RW‧‧‧Rear wheel S‧‧‧Saddle or Seat S1‧‧‧First electrical switch S2‧‧‧Second electric switch SP‧‧‧Electrically adjustable seatpost

Figure 1 is a side view of a bicycle equipped with several components (bicycle components) according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one of the bicycle components (ie, one of the bicycle operating devices) shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in FIG. 2 , in which the grip is shown in dotted lines to reveal a cover (eg, a body or a switch cover) disposed on the saddle portion and the grip portion of the base member; .

Figure 4 is an inward-facing side view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2 and 3, with the grip shown in phantom.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 .

Figure 6 is an inward-facing side view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2-5.

Figure 7 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2 to 6, wherein the cover attached to the base member (ie, the saddle bridge body or the switch cover) is in a position to cover the switch operation portion of the switch to inhibit Override position for switch operation.

Figure 8 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view similar to Figure 7 of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2 to 7, but with the cover in an uncovered position to provide access to the switch operating portion of the switch to permit operation of the switch; .

Figure 9 is a front view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2-8.

Figure 10 is a front view similar to Figure 9 of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2 to 9, but with the grips omitted.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2 to 10, but in which the cover has been replaced by an additional cover (eg, an additional body or a switch cover) to change the body configuration of the base member, and the grip has been replaced by an additional cover. Grip replacement.

Figure 12 is a perspective view similar to Figure 11 of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2 to 10, but with additional grips shown in dashed lines to reveal additional covers provided on the saddle portion and grip portion of the base member; pieces.

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 .

14 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle assembly shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 with an additional cover attached to the saddle portion in a covering position covering the switch operating portion of the switch to inhibit operation of the switch.

Figure 15 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view similar to Figure 14 of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 11 to 14, but with the additional cover in an uncovered position to provide access to the switch operating portion of the switch to permit operation of the switch; operate.

Figure 16 is a front view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 11 to 15.

Figure 17 is a front view similar to Figure 16 of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 11 to 16, but in which the additional grip has been omitted.

Figure 18 is a simplified block diagram of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2-17, wherein the bicycle assembly communicates with an electrical device via wires.

Figure 19 is a simplified block diagram of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 2-17, wherein the bicycle assembly communicates with an electrical device via wireless communication.

Figure 20 is a perspective view of a bicycle assembly (ie, bicycle operating device) with a cover (eg, body or switch cover) attached to a base member by means of a securing member (eg, threaded fasteners such as screws) Saddle part and grip part.

Figure 21 is a perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figure 20, but in which the cover has been replaced by an additional cover (eg, an additional body or a switch cover) to change the body configuration of the base member.

Figure 22 is a perspective view of a bicycle assembly (ie, bicycle operating device) in which a cover with electrical means is attached to the saddle portion and grip portion of the base member so that the switch can be operated through the grip.

Figure 23 is a perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figure 22, but with the grip sleeve shown in dotted lines to reveal the cover provided on the saddle portion and grip portion of the base member.

Figure 24 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 22 and 23.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 22 to 24, but in which the cover has been replaced by an additional cover to change the body configuration of the base member, and the grip has been replaced by an additional grip.

Figure 26 is a perspective view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figure 25, but with additional grips shown in dotted lines to reveal additional covers provided on the saddle and grip portions of the base member.

Figure 27 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 25 and 26.

Figure 28 is a simplified block diagram of the bicycle assembly shown in Figures 22-27, wherein the bicycle assembly communicates with an electrical device via wireless communication.

Figure 29 is a perspective view of the combination of several grip components used to form two different two-piece grips.

Figure 30 is a perspective view of another combination of several grip components used to form two different two-piece grips.

10B‧‧‧Components, bicycle components

12‧‧‧Base component

12b‧‧‧saddle bridge part

12e‧‧‧First recess

12f‧‧‧Second recess

14‧‧‧switch

16‧‧‧Switch operation part

18‧‧‧Cover

18a‧‧‧Hinge part

18b‧‧‧Latching part

22‧‧‧Operating components

22A‧‧‧brake lever

36‧‧‧Pivot pin

38‧‧‧Bias component

46‧‧‧Connecting rod

48‧‧‧reservoir

A1‧‧‧Pivot axis

PCB‧‧‧Printed circuit board, substrate

PD1‧‧‧The first largest size

Claims (15)

An assembly for a propelled vehicle, including a bicycle, comprising: a base member including: a handlebar attachment end; a distal portion opposite the handlebar attachment end; a rider grip a grip portion disposed between the handlebar attachment end and the distal portion; a switch mounted on the base member; a switch operating portion operating the switch; and a cover member Constructed to be disposed in a covering position covering the operating portion of the switch to inhibit operation of the switch, and in a non-covering position exposing the operating portion of the switch to allow operation of the switch, the cover is disposed on the distal portion . The assembly of claim 1 further includes an operating member movably coupled relative to the distal portion. The component described in claim 1, wherein the switch operating portion is configured to be pressed to operate the switch. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover is detachably attached to the base member. An assembly for a propelled vehicle, including a bicycle, comprising: a base member including: a handlebar attachment end; a distal portion opposite the handlebar attachment end; a rider grip a grip portion, which is disposed between the handlebar attachment end and the distal portion; a switch, which is mounted on the base member; a switch operating portion, which operates the switch; and a cover, which is Constructed to be provided in a covered position covering the operating portion of the switch to inhibit operation of the switch, and in an uncovered position exposing the operating portion of the switch to permit operation of the switch; and an additional cover that may replace the cover interchangeably attached to the base member to form a body configuration of the base member in a covering position covering the operating portion of the switch to inhibit operation of the switch, with the additional The body configuration of the base member formed by the cover is different from the body configuration formed by the cover attached to the base member. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the base member includes a saddle portion, the cover is attached to the rider's grip portion and/or the saddle portion, and the cover and the additional cover is dimensioned relative to each other such that the cover the member when attached to the base member forms a first maximum dimension of the rider grip portion and/or the saddle portion, and such that the additional cover member when attached to the base member forms the A second maximum dimension of the rider's grip portion and/or the saddle portion, and the first maximum dimension is different from the second maximum dimension. An assembly for a propelled vehicle, including a bicycle, comprising: a base member; and a cover interchangeably attached to the base member to form an initial body configuration, the cover being interchangeable into a An additional cover to form a body configuration different from the initial body configuration, the cover containing the electrical device, the additional cover containing the electrical device and/or being at least five millimeters higher than the cover. As claimed in claim 7, the additional cover is at least ten millimeters higher than the cover. The component described in Item 7 of the patent application, wherein each of the electrical devices includes at least one of a switch, a power supply, and a wireless communication unit. As for the component described in any one of items 7 to 9 of the patent application, wherein the base member includes a rider grip part and a saddle bridge part, the bicycle The grip portion has a handlebar attachment end, and the cover is attached to the saddle portion and/or the rider grip portion. The assembly as described in Item 1 or 7 of the patent application, wherein the cover is fixed to the base member by a fixing member, or is hingedly attached to the base member. As claimed in claim 1 or claim 7, the cover member is attached to the base member by snap-fit. Such as the component described in item 1 or 7 of the patent application scope, wherein the component is a bicycle component. The assembly of claim 1 or 7, further comprising: an operating member movably coupled relative to the base member, the operating member including being pivotally coupled relative to the base member a shift lever, and/or a brake lever that is pivotally coupled relative to the base member. An assembly for a propelled vehicle, including a bicycle, comprising: a base member including: a handlebar attachment end; a distal portion opposite the handlebar attachment end; A rider's grip portion is provided between the handlebar attachment end and the distal portion; a switch is mounted on the base member; a switch operating portion operates the switch; and a cover A component configured to be disposed in a covered position covering the operating portion of the switch to inhibit operation of the switch, and in a non-covered position exposing the operating portion of the switch to allow operation of the switch; a grip made of elastic material The grip is stretched over the base member; and the grip includes a first grip component and a second grip component detachable from the first grip component, and the third grip component of the grip The two grip parts can be interchanged into an additional grip part.