TWI879829B - Operating device for human-powered vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

An operating device for a human-powered vehicle is basically provided with a base member, a user operated member, a first guiding structure, a second guiding structure and an electrical switch unit. The user operated member is movably coupled to the base member. The first guiding structure is provided to the base member to movably guide the user operated member relative to the base member in a first direction. The second guiding structure is provided to the user operated member to movably guide the user operated member relative to the base member in a second direction different from the first direction. The electrical switch unit moves relative to the user operated member in response to movement of the user operated member in the first direction. The electrical switch unit moves relative to the base member in response to movement of the user operated member in the second direction.

Description

Operating devices for human-powered vehicles

The present invention generally relates to an operating device for a human powered vehicle.

Typically, a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) typically has one or more operating devices for operating one or more components. Some of these operating devices include a user-operated member having one or more operating positions to operate one or more other components. Some of these operating devices also include one or more switches actuated by moving the user-operated member, which in turn sends a control signal for operating a component. An example of an operating device for a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) is disclosed in German Utility Model Patent Publication No. DE20 2019 102 653 U1. Another example of an operating device for a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,326,412.

Generally, the present invention is directed to various features of an operating device for a human-powered vehicle. In one feature, an operating device is provided in which a user-operated member can be operated in two different directions to actuate an electrical switch unit.

In view of the known most advanced technology and according to a first aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-powered vehicle is provided. The operating device basically includes a base member, a user operating member, a first guide structure, a second guide structure and an electric switch unit. The user operating member is movably coupled to the base member. The first guide structure is provided to the base member to movably guide the user operating member in a first direction relative to the base member. The second guide structure is provided to the user operating member to movably guide the user operating member in a second direction different from the first direction relative to the base member. The electric switch unit is configured to move relative to the user operating member in response to a first movement of the user operating member in the first direction. The electrical switch unit is configured to move relative to the base member in response to a second movement of the user operating member in the second direction.

By using the operating device according to the first aspect, the usability of the operating device can be improved.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the first aspect further includes a first limiting member, which is configured to be selectively provided to the first guide structure to limit the first movement of the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the second aspect, the operating direction of the operating device can be customized by limiting the first movement of the user's operating component.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the second aspect further includes a second limiting member, which is configured to be selectively provided to the second guide structure to limit the second movement of the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the second aspect, the operating direction of the operating device can be customized by limiting the second movement of the user's operating component.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the third aspect is configured so that the first limiting member has a first size, and the second limiting member has a second size different from the first size.

By using the operating device according to the fourth aspect, it is possible to easily select an appropriate one of the first limiting member and the second limiting member to customize the operating direction desired by the user.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured so that the first guide structure includes at least one first guide groove, and the second guide structure includes at least one second guide groove.

By using the operating device according to the fifth aspect, the operating direction of the user's operating component can be controlled.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the fifth aspect is configured so that when the first limiting member is configured to the at least one first guide groove, the user operating member can move in the second direction relative to the base member, and when the second limiting member is configured to the at least one second guide groove, the user operating member can move in the first direction relative to the base member.

By using the operating device according to the sixth aspect, the first limiting member or the second limiting member can be easily installed to select the operating direction of the user operating member.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured so that the electrical switch unit is coupled to the user operating member to move in the second direction relative to the base member in response to the second movement of the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the seventh aspect, the actuation of the electrical switch unit can be controlled in response to the second movement of the user operating component.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the seventh aspect is configured so that the electrical switch unit includes a first electrical switch configured to be actuated in response to the first movement of the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the eighth aspect, a signal can be reliably output in response to the first movement of the user operating component.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the eighth aspect is configured so that the first electrical switch is configured to remain unactuated relative to the base member in response to a movement of the user operating member other than the first movement.

By using the operating device according to the ninth aspect, when the user operates the component to move in a direction other than the first movement, accidental actuation of the first electrical switch can be avoided.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects is configured so that the electrical switch unit is coupled to the base member to move in the first direction relative to the user operating member in response to the first movement of the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the tenth aspect, the actuation of the electrical switch unit can be controlled in response to the first movement of the user operating member.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the tenth aspect is configured so that the electrical switch unit includes a second electrical switch configured to be actuated in response to the second movement of the user operating component.

By using the operating device according to the eleventh aspect, a signal can be reliably output in response to the second movement of the user operating component.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the second electrical switch is configured to respond to a movement of the user operating member other than the second movement and remain stationary and unactuated relative to the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the twelfth aspect, when the user operating member moves in a direction other than the second movement, accidental actuation of the second electrical switch can be avoided.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects is configured so that the electrical switch unit includes a circuit. The circuit is configured to generate a first signal in response to the first movement of the user operating member. The circuit is configured to generate a second signal in response to the second movement of the user operating member.

By using the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect, different signals can be generated in response to different movements of the user's operating component.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to the thirteenth aspect is configured so that the circuit is electrically connected to at least one of a wireless communicator and a notification unit.

By using the operating device according to the fourteenth aspect, a movement operation of the user operating component can be wirelessly transmitted and/or a notification of a movement operation of the user operating component can be provided.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects is configured so that the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction.

Using the operating device according to the fifteenth aspect, the user can easily distinguish the first movement and the second movement of the user operating component.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects is configured so that the base member includes a handlebar clamp adapted to be attached to a handlebar.

By using the operating device according to the sixteenth aspect, the user operating member can be easily operated from a handlebar.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured so that one of the base member and the user operating member has a limiting member configured to prevent the user operating member from moving simultaneously in the first direction and the second direction.

By using the operating device according to the seventeenth aspect, the user can prevent the operating member from moving in the first direction and the second direction at the same time.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the operating device according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured so that the user operating component is configured to be able to move simultaneously in the first direction and the second direction.

By using the operating device according to the eighteenth aspect, the user operating component can be moved simultaneously or sequentially in the first direction and the second direction.

Furthermore, other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the operating device will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the operating device disclosed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of bicycles in accordance with the present invention that the following description of the embodiments is provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the present invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

First, referring to FIG. 1 , a human-powered vehicle A equipped with at least one operating device 10 according to the illustrated embodiment is illustrated. In other words, an operating device 10 is provided for the human-powered vehicle A. The term "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle that at least partially uses human power as a driving motive force and includes a vehicle that uses electricity to assist human power. Human-powered vehicles do not include a vehicle that uses only a motive force that is not human power. Specifically, human-powered vehicles do not include a vehicle that uses only an internal combustion engine or only an electric motor as a motive force. Human-powered vehicles are compact, light vehicles that do not require a license to travel on a public road in some countries. Here, human-powered vehicle A is illustrated as a bicycle. However, human-powered vehicle A is not limited to the illustrated bicycle. For example, human-powered vehicles may include various types of bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a recumbent bike, and an electric-assisted bicycle (E-bike).

Basically, as shown in FIG. 1 , a human-powered vehicle A (e.g., a bicycle) has a vehicle body B, which includes a bicycle frame BF, a front fork FF, and a swing arm SA. The front fork FF is pivotally supported by the bicycle frame BF to pivot about an inclined vertical axis in the front portion of the bicycle frame BF. The front fork FF rotatably supports a front wheel FW at the lower end of the front fork FF. The front fork FF is a front suspension fork constituting a front suspension of the human-powered vehicle A. The front wheel FW includes a front wheel rim FR and a front tire FT. The front wheel rim FR is attached to a front wheel hub in a known manner by a plurality of spokes. A rear wheel RW is rotatably mounted to a rear end of the swing arm SA. A rear shock absorber RSH is operably coupled between the swing arm SA and the bicycle frame BF. The rear shock absorber RSH and the swing arm SA constitute a rear suspension of the human-powered vehicle A. The rear wheel RW includes a rear rim RR and a rear tire RT. The rear rim RR is attached to a rear wheel hub in a known manner by a plurality of spokes. The vehicle body B further includes a handlebar H coupled to the front fork FF and a saddle or seat S coupled to the bicycle frame BF. The handlebar H is attached to the front fork FF to manipulate the front wheel FW. The bicycle seat S is mounted on the top of an electrically adjustable seat post SP, which is mounted to the bicycle frame BF in a known manner.

As seen in FIG. 1 , a human-powered vehicle A (e.g., a bicycle) has a transmission system DT including a front crank assembly FC, a front chain ring CR, a plurality of rear sprockets RS, and a chain CN. The front crank assembly FC includes a pair of crank arms CA and a pair of pedals PD. Each of the pedals PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of a corresponding one of the crank arms CA. The human-powered vehicle A further includes an electric rear derailleur RD disposed on a swing arm SA of the human-powered vehicle A to shift the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS in a known manner. Here, the transmission system DT of the human-powered vehicle A further includes a drive assist unit DSU, which includes an electric motor as an actuator for applying a drive assist force to the chain CN via the front chain ring CR. Since the drive assist unit is well known, the drive assist unit DSU will not be discussed or illustrated in detail herein. A battery BT is arranged inside the bicycle frame BF to supply power to the electrical components of the human-powered vehicle A, including the front fork FF, the rear shock absorber RSH, the electric adjustable seatpost SP, the electric rear derailleur RD and the electric assist motor DSU.

As seen in FIG. 2 , the operating device 10 is part of a control system 12 of the human-powered vehicle A. Since a rider uses the operating device 10 to operate one or more components of the human-powered vehicle A, the operating device 10 may also be referred to as a user-operable input device. Here, in addition to the operating device 10, the control system 12 further includes a bicycle computer CC, a battery BT, and one or more electric operating devices ED1, ED2, ED3, and ED4. Although the control system 12 is illustrated as having four electric operating devices ED1, ED2, ED3, and ED4, it will be apparent from the present invention that the control system 12 is not limited to having four electric operating devices. In fact, it will be apparent from the present invention that the control system 12 may have only one electric operating device, or two or more electric operating devices.

Here, the electric operating devices ED1 and ED2 are illustrated as communicating with the bicycle computer CC using wired communication, while the electric operating devices ED3 and ED4 are illustrated as communicating with the bicycle computer CC using wireless communication. It will be apparent from the present invention that any of the electric operating devices ED1, ED2, ED3, and ED4 may be configured to communicate with the bicycle computer CC using wired communication or wireless communication. Here, for example, the electric operating device ED1 may be a drive assist unit DSU, and the electric operating device ED2 may be an electric adjustable seatpost SP. On the other hand, for example, the electric operating device ED3 may be an electric rear derailleur RD, and the electric operating device ED4 may be a rear shock absorber RSH.

Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle computer CC includes an electronic controller 14. The electronic controller 14 is formed by one or more semiconductor chips mounted on a circuit board. The term "electronic controller" as used herein refers to hardware that executes a software program and does not include a human being. The electronic controller 14 is electrically connected to the operating device 10 so that the electronic controller 14 receives output signals from the operating device 10 as needed and/or desired. The electronic controller 14 is electrically connected to the operating device 10, for example, by a wired connection or a wireless connection. For example, here, the electronic controller 14 is connected to the operating device 10 by a wire EW. In the case of a wireless connection, the operating device 10 may have a battery or a power generating element (for example, a piezoelectric element, etc.). The electronic controller 14 is configured to control the electric operating devices ED1, ED2, ED3 and ED4 in response to input from the operating device 10, other operating devices and/or other sensors indicating a particular riding condition. Although the electronic controller 14 is shown as part of the bicycle computer CC, it will be apparent from the present invention that the electronic controller 14 can be provided to the operating device 10.

In any case, the electronic controller 14 is preferably a microcomputer that includes at least one processor 14A (i.e., a central processing unit) and at least one memory 14B (i.e., a computer storage device). The processor 14A may be one or more integrated circuits having firmware that causes the circuits to perform the activities described herein. The memory 14B is any computer storage device or any non-transitory computer-readable medium, except for a transient propagation signal. For example, the memory 14B may include non-volatile memory and volatile memory, and may include a ROM (read-only memory) device, a RAM (random access memory) device, a hard drive, a flash drive, etc.

Here, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle computer CC includes a wireless communicator 16 and a notification unit 18. The wireless communicator 16 and the notification unit 18 of the bicycle computer CC are connected to the operating device 10 via the wire EW so that the wireless communicator 16 and the notification unit 18 receive output signals from the operating device 10 directly or via the electronic controller 14 as needed and/or desired.

The wireless communicator 16 is configured to wirelessly transmit control signals to electric operating devices such as electric operating devices ED3 and ED4 in response to operation of the operating device 10. The wireless communication signal of the wireless communicator 16 can be a radio frequency (RF) signal, an ultra-wideband communication signal, or Bluetooth® communication, or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the bicycle field. Here, the wireless communicator 16 can be a one-way wireless communication device such as a transmitter, or a two-way wireless communication device such as a transceiver. Although the wireless communicator 16 is shown as part of the bicycle computer CC, it will be apparent from the present invention that the wireless communicator 16 can be provided to the operating device 10.

The notification unit 18 is preferably connected to the wireless communicator 16 to notify a user of a state of the wireless communicator 16. However, the notification unit 18 can notify a user of a state of another bicycle component such as the electric rear derailleur RD and the battery BT. The notification unit 18 includes a light-emitting element such as a light-emitting diode (LED). However, instead of or in addition to the light-emitting element, the notification unit 18 can also include other elements through which the state of the wireless communicator 16 is transmitted, such as a buzzer and/or an output interface (e.g., a display). Although the notification unit 18 is illustrated as part of the bicycle computer CC, it will be apparent from the present invention that the notification unit 18 is provided to the operating device 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the operating device 10 will now be discussed in more detail. The operating device 10 basically includes a base member 20 and a user operating member 22. The user operating member 22 is movably coupled to the base member 20. Here, the user operating member 22 can move in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 relative to the base member 20. The second direction D2 is different from the first direction D1. Preferably, the first direction D1 is perpendicular to the second direction D2. The base member 20 is a rigid supporting member that movably supports the user operating member 22. The base member 20 can be made of a hard plastic material or a metal material.

In the case where the human-powered vehicle A is a bicycle, preferably, the base member 20 includes a handlebar clamp 24 adapted to be attached to the handlebar H. The handlebar clamp 24 includes a clamping portion 24a and a fixing bolt 24b. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping portion 24a is integrally formed as a part of the base member 20. Thus, the clamping portion 24a and the base member 20 are formed as a single part. Alternatively, the clamping portion 24a may be removably attached to the base member 20.

The user operating member 22 includes a first user contact surface 22a and a second user contact surface 22b. The first user contact surface 22a is configured so that a user pushes the first user contact surface 22a to move the user operating member 22 in a first direction D1 relative to the base member 20. The second user contact surface 22b is configured so that a user pushes the second user contact surface 22b to move the user operating member 22 in a second direction D2 relative to the base member 20. The second user contact surface 22b is angled relative to the first user contact surface 22a. The first user contact surface 22a and the second user contact surface 22b are preferably at least partially textured (e.g., ribs, bumps, etc.) to prevent accidental operation by the user's fingers. Of course, the texture can be omitted when necessary.

4 , the operating device 10 further includes a first guide structure 30, a second guide structure 32, and an electrical switch unit 34. The first guide structure 30 is provided to the base member 20 to movably guide the user operating member 22 in a first direction D1 relative to the base member 20. In other words, when the user pushes the first user contact surface 22a in the first direction D1, the first guide structure 30 guides the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1 relative to the base member 20. The second guide structure 32 is provided to the user operating member 22 to movably guide the user operating member 22 in a second direction D2 relative to the base member 20. In other words, when the user pushes the second user contact surface 22b in the second direction D2, the second guide structure 32 guides the user operating member 22 in the second direction D2 relative to the base member 20.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first guide structure 30 includes at least one first guide groove 30a. Here, the first guide structure 30 includes two pairs of first guide grooves 30a extending in the first direction D1. The first guide grooves 30a are formed in the user operating member 22. The first guide grooves 30a are parallel to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the second guide structure 32 includes at least one second guide groove 32a. Here, the second guide structure 32 includes two pairs of second guide grooves 32a extending in the second direction D2. The second guide grooves 32a are formed in the base member 20. The second guide grooves 32a are parallel to each other. Furthermore, the second guide grooves 32a are arranged perpendicular to the first guide grooves 30a.

The electrical switch unit 34 is disposed in a cavity 20a of the base member 20 so as to be actuated by the user operating member 22. The electrical switch unit 34 is configured to move relative to the user operating member 22 in response to a first movement of the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1. More precisely, the electrical switch unit 34 remains stationary relative to the base member 20 while the user operating member 22 moves relative to the base member 20 in response to the first movement of the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1. In other words, the electrical switch unit 34 is coupled to the base member 20 to move relative to the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1 in response to the first movement of the user operating member 22. For example, when the user operating member 22 moves in the first direction D1, the electrical switch unit 34 outputs a first signal. The electrical switch unit 34 is configured to move relative to the base member 20 in response to a second movement of the user operating member 22 in the second direction D2. More precisely, the electrical switch unit 34 moves relative to the base member 20 together with the user operating member 22, and the user operating member 22 moves relative to the base member 20 in response to the second movement of the user operating member 22 in the second direction D2. In other words, the electrical switch unit 34 is coupled to the user operating member 22 to move relative to the base member 20 in the second direction D2 in response to the second movement of the user operating member 22. For example, when the user operating member 22 moves in the second direction D2, the electrical switch unit 34 outputs a second signal. Furthermore, as explained below, the user operating member 22 is configured to be able to move simultaneously in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. For example, when the user operates the member 22 to move in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 simultaneously, the electrical switch unit 34 outputs a third signal.

In order to control the movement of the user operating member 22 and the electrical switch unit 34 relative to the base member 20, the electrical switch unit 34 has four guide pins 36 protruding from opposite sides of a switch body 38. Two of the guide pins 36 are disposed in each of the first guide slots 30a. Furthermore, two of the guide pins 36 are disposed in each of the second guide slots 32a. The number of guide pins 36 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. In fact, the number of guide pins 36 can be less than or greater than that illustrated as needed and/or desired.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the electrical switch unit 34 includes a circuit. Here, the circuit includes a first circuit EC1 disposed on a first printed circuit board PCB1 and a second circuit EC2 disposed on a second printed circuit board PCB2. The first circuit EC1 of the circuit is configured to generate a first signal in response to a first movement of the user operating member 22. The second circuit EC2 of the circuit is configured to generate a second signal in response to a second movement of the user operating member 22. The circuit of the electrical switch unit 34 is not limited to the embodiment shown therein. For example, the electrical switch unit 34 may have only one PCB or may be connected to an external device as needed and/or desired.

That is, as seen in FIGS. 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12, the electrical switch unit 34 includes a first electrical switch SW1 configured to be actuated in response to a first movement of the user operating member 22. Furthermore, the electrical switch unit 34 includes a second electrical switch SW2 configured to be actuated in response to a second movement of the user operating member 22. The first electrical switch SW1 is disposed on a first printed circuit board PCB1, and the second electrical switch SW2 is disposed on a second printed circuit board PCB2. The first printed circuit board PCB1 and the second printed circuit board PCB2 are mounted in a slot of a switch body 38. Alternatively, the first printed circuit board PCB1 and the second printed circuit board PCB2 may be directly attached to the electrical switch unit 34 without using a slot. Here, the first printed circuit board PCB1 is disposed on the switch body 38 perpendicular to the second printed circuit board PCB2. The first circuit EC1 and the second circuit EC2 of the circuit are electrically connected to at least one of the wireless communicator 16 and the notification unit 18. Preferably, the first circuit EC1 and the second circuit EC2 are electrically connected to the wireless communicator 16 and the notification unit 18.

Preferably, the electrical switch unit 34 includes a first depressible portion 40, a first biasing element 42, a second depressible portion 44, and a second biasing element 46. The first depressible portion 40 is configured to actuate the first electrical switch SW1 in response to a first movement of the user operating member 22. The second depressible portion 44 is configured to actuate the second electrical switch SW2, which is configured to actuate in response to a second movement of the user operating member 22. The first biasing element 42 is positioned between the first printed circuit board PCB1 and the first depressible portion 40, and the second biasing element 46 is positioned between the second printed circuit board PCB2 and the second depressible portion 44. Here, the first biasing element 42 and the second biasing element 46 are spiral compression springs. However, the first biasing element 42 and the second biasing element 46 are not limited to the helical compression springs. In any case, the first biasing element 42 acts as a return spring to bias the user operating member 22 to a rest position, as shown in FIG6 . Specifically, the biasing force of the first biasing element 42 is directed to the user operating member 22 in a direction opposite to the first direction D1. On the other hand, the second biasing element 46 acts as a return spring to bias the electrical switch unit 34 and the user operating member 22 to their rest positions, as shown in FIG6 . Specifically, the biasing force of the second biasing element 46 is directed to the electrical switch unit 34 in a direction opposite to the second direction D2.

With this configuration of the user operating member 22 and the electrical switch unit 34 relative to the base member 20, the user can actuate only the first electrical switch SW1 by moving the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. With this configuration of the user operating member 22 and the electrical switch unit 34 relative to the base member 20, the user can actuate only the second electrical switch SW2 by moving the user operating member 22 in the second direction D2, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. Also with this configuration of the user operating member 22 and the electrical switch unit 34 relative to the base member 20, the user can actuate both the first electrical switch SW1 and the second electrical switch SW2 simultaneously or sequentially by moving the user operating member 22 in both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. When the user operating member 22 is not moved in the first direction D1, the first electrical switch SW1 is configured to remain inactive relative to the base member 20 in response to a movement of the user operating member 22 other than the first movement. When the user operating member 22 is not moved in the second direction D2, the second electrical switch SW2 is configured to remain inactive relative to the user operating member 22 in response to a movement of the user operating member 22 other than the second movement.

Now referring to Figure 13, the operating device 10 further includes a first limiting member 50 configured to be selectively set to the first guide structure 30 to limit the first movement of the user operating member 22, as appropriate. When the first limiting member 50 is used, the operating device 10 cannot actuate the first electrical switch SW1. Here, the first limiting member 50 is pressed into one of the first guide grooves 30a. The first limiting member 50 can be made of plastic, rubber or any other suitable material. Although the first limiting member 50 is configured to engage only one of the first guide grooves 30a, it will be apparent from the present invention that the first limiting member 50 can be sized to engage both of the first guide grooves 30a. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes an additional first limiting member 52. Therefore, one of the first limiting members 50 and 52 is disposed in one of the first guide slots 30a and the other of the first limiting members 50 and 52 is disposed in the other of the first guide slots 30a to limit the movement of the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1. Of course, if desired, only one of the first limiting members 50 and 52 is required to limit the first movement of the user operating member 22 in the first direction D1. Furthermore, the first limiting members 50 and 52 can be combined together to become a single-piece member that joins the two first guide slots 30a. Therefore, when the first limiting member 50 is configured to at least one first guide slot 30a, the user operating member 22 can move in the second direction D2 relative to the base member 20.

Now referring to Figure 14, the operating device 10 further includes a second limiting member 54 configured to be selectively set to the second guide structure 32 to limit the second movement of the user operating member 22, as appropriate. When the second limiting member 54 is used, the operating device 10 cannot actuate the second electrical switch SW2. Here, the second limiting member 54 is pressed into one of the second guide grooves 32a. The second limiting member 54 can be made of plastic, rubber or any other suitable material. Although the second limiting member 54 is configured to engage only one of the second guide grooves 32a, it will be apparent from the present invention that the second limiting member 54 can be sized to engage both of the second guide grooves 32a. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating device 10 further includes an additional second limiting member 56. Therefore, one of the second limiting members 54 and 56 is disposed in one of the second guide grooves 32a and the other of the second limiting members 54 and 56 is disposed in the other of the second guide grooves 32a to limit the movement of the user operating member 22 in the second direction D2. Of course, if desired, only one of the first limiting members 50 and 52 is required to limit the second movement of the user operating member 22 in the second direction D2. Furthermore, the second limiting members 54 and 56 can be combined together to become a one-piece member that engages the two second guide grooves 32a. Therefore, when the second limiting member 54 is configured to at least one second guide groove 32a, the user operating member 22 can move in the second direction D2 relative to the base member 20. Preferably, the first limiting member 50 has a first size X1, and the second limiting member 54 has a second size X2. The second size X2 is different from the first size X1. The first limiting member 52 has the same size as the first limiting member 50, and the second limiting member 56 has the same size as the second limiting member 54. However, the first guide slot 30a and the second guide slot 32a can be configured so that the same limiting member can be used in both the first guide slot 30a and the second guide slot 32a. In this way, the first limiting member 50 can be used in the first guide slot 30a and the second guide slot 32a to selectively limit the movement of the user operating member 22.

Referring now to FIGS. 15 to 17 , a modification of the operating device 10 is illustrated. Here, the operating device 10 has a user operating member 122 that includes a limiting member 123 to prevent the user operating member 122 from moving in both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. Although the limiting member 123 is disposed on the user operating member 122, it will be apparent that a limiting member may be disposed on the base member 20. In other words, one of the base member 20 and the user operating member 22 has a limiting member configured to prevent the user operating member 22 from moving in both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "include" and its derivatives as used herein are intended to be open terms, which specify the presence of stated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "including", "having" and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "part", "section", "portion", "component" or "element" when used in the singular may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

As used herein, the following directional terms "frame-facing side," "non-frame-facing side," "forward," "rearward," "front," "rear," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," and "lateral," and any other similar directional terms, refer to directions of a human-powered vehicle in an upright riding position and equipped with an operating device. Accordingly, such directional terms as used to describe the operating device should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with the operating device. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" when referring to the right side as viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle, and to indicate "left" when referring to the left side as viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle.

As used in the present invention, the phrase "at least one of..." means "one or more" of a desired choice. For one example, as used in the present invention, the phrase "at least one of..." means "only a single choice" or "two of the two choices", provided that the number of choices is two. For another example, as used in the present invention, the phrase "at least one of..." means "only a single choice" or "any combination of equal to or greater than two choices", provided that the number of choices is equal to or greater than three.

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

As used herein, the term "attached" or "attaching" encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by attaching the element directly to the other element; in which an element is indirectly secured to the other element by attaching the element to (several) intermediate elements, which are in turn attached to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with the other element, i.e., one element is essentially a part of the other element. This definition also applies to words of similar meanings, such as "joined," "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "combined," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree as used herein, such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately" mean an amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed.

Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made herein without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the accompanying claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components may be changed as needed and/or desired, as long as such changes do not materially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, components that are shown as being directly connected or touching each other may have intermediate structures disposed therebetween, as long as such changes do not materially affect their intended functions. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment may be used in another embodiment. Not all advantages must exist simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each unique feature in the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, should also be considered as a separate description of the applicant's further invention, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such (etc.) features. Therefore, the foregoing description of the embodiments according to the present invention is provided only for the purpose of explanation and not for limiting the present invention as defined by the scope of the attached invention application and its equivalents.

10: operating device 12: control system 14: electronic controller 14A: processor 14B: memory 16: wireless communicator 18: notification unit 20: base member 20a: cavity 22: user operating member 22a: first user contact surface 22b: second user contact surface 24: handlebar clamp 24a: clamping portion 24b: fixing bolt 30: first guide structure 30a: first guide groove 32: second guide structure 32a: second guide groove 34: electric switch unit 36: guide pin 38: switch body 40: first depressible portion 42: first biasing element 44: second depressible portion 46: second biasing element 50: first limiting member 52: first limiting member 54: second limiting member 56: second limiting member 122: user operating member 123: limiting member A: human-powered vehicle B: vehicle body BF: bicycle frame BT: battery CA: crank arm CC: bicycle computer CN: chain CR: front chain ring D1: first direction D2: second direction DSU: drive assist unit DT: transmission system EC1: first circuit EC2: second circuit ED1: electric operating device ED2: electric operating device ED3: electric operating device ED4: electric operating device EW: wire FF: front fork FR: front rim FT: front tire FW: front wheel H: handlebar PCB1: first printed circuit board PCB2: second printed circuit board PD: pedal RD: electric rear derailleur RR: rear rim RS: rear sprocket RSH: rear shock absorber RT: front tire RW: rear wheel S: saddle or seat/bicycle seat SA: swing arm SW1: first electric switch SW2: second electric switch X1: first size X2: second size

Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the present invention:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle equipped with a control system including an operating device according to an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a general block diagram showing an example of a control system for the human-powered vehicle shown in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a handlebar comprising an operating device according to a first embodiment, wherein a user-operated member of the operating device is in a non-operating or resting position;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 ;

FIG5 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIG3 and FIG4, wherein the user operating member is in a non-operating or static position;

FIG. 6 is an oblique view similar to FIG. 5 of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 , wherein a portion of the user operating member is cut away for illustration purposes;

FIG. 7 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 , wherein the user operating member is in operation to move in a first direction from a non-operating or resting position to a first operating position;

FIG8 is an oblique view similar to FIG7 of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 7, wherein a portion of the user operating member is cut away for illustration purposes;

FIG. 9 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 8 , wherein the user operating member is in operation to move from a non-operating or resting position to a second operating position in a second direction;

FIG. 10 is an oblique view similar to FIG. 9 of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 9 , wherein a portion of the user operating member is cut away for illustration purposes;

FIG. 11 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 10 , wherein the user operating member is in operation to move from a non-operating or resting position to a third operating position in both the first direction and the second direction;

FIG. 12 is an oblique view similar to FIG. 11 of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 11 , wherein a portion of the user operating member is cut away for illustration purposes;

FIG. 13 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 12 , wherein a pair of first limiting members are installed to limit the movement of the user's operating member in a first direction;

FIG. 14 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIGS. 3 to 13 , wherein a pair of second limiting members are installed to limit the movement of the user's operating member in a second direction;

FIG. 15 is an oblique view of an operating device according to a second embodiment, wherein a portion of the operating device is cut away and wherein the user operating member is in a non-operating or resting position; and

FIG. 16 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIG. 15 , wherein the user operating member is in operation to move in a first direction from the non-operating position or the resting position of FIG. 15 to a first operating position; and

FIG. 17 is an oblique view of the operating device shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 , wherein the user operating member is in operation to move from the non-operating position or rest position of FIG. 15 to a second operating position in a second direction.

20: Base components

22: User operation components

22a: First user contact surface

22b: Second user contact surface

24: Handlebar clamp

24a: Clamping part

24b: Fixing bolt

D1: First direction

D2: Second direction

EW: Wires

H:Handlebars

Claims (17)

An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member; a user operating member movably coupled to the base member; a first guide structure, which is disposed on the base member to movably guide the user operating member in a first direction relative to the base member; a second guide structure, which is disposed on the user operating member to movably guide the user operating member in a second direction different from the first direction relative to the base member; and an electrical switch unit, which is configured to move relative to the user operating member in response to a first movement of the user operating member in the first direction, the electrical switch unit is configured to move relative to the base member in response to a second movement of the user operating member in the second direction, wherein the user operating member is configured to be able to move in the first direction and the second direction simultaneously. An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member; a user operating member movably coupled to the base member; a first guide structure, which is arranged on the base member to movably guide the user operating member in a first direction relative to the base member; a second guide structure, which is arranged on the user operating member to movably guide the user operating member in a second direction different from the first direction relative to the base member. guiding the user operating member; an electrical switch unit configured to move relative to the user operating member in response to a first movement of the user operating member in the first direction, the electrical switch unit configured to move relative to the base member in response to a second movement of the user operating member in the second direction; and a first limiting member configured to be selectively provided to the first guide structure to limit the first movement of the user operating member. The operating device of claim 2 further comprises a second limiting member configured to be selectively provided to the second guide structure to limit the second movement of the user operating member. An operating device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first limiting member has a first size, and the second limiting member has a second size different from the first size. An operating device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first guide structure includes at least one first guide groove, and the second guide structure includes at least one second guide groove. An operating device as claimed in claim 5, wherein when the first limiting member is configured to the at least one first guide groove, the user operating member can move in the second direction relative to the base member, and when the second limiting member is configured to the at least one second guide groove, the user operating member can move in the first direction relative to the base member. An operating device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrical switch unit is coupled to the user operating member to move in the second direction relative to the base member in response to the second movement of the user operating member. An operating device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the electrical switch unit includes a first electrical switch configured to be actuated in response to the first movement of the user operating member. An operating device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the first electrical switch is configured to remain unactuated relative to the base member in response to a movement of the user operating member other than the first movement. An operating device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrical switch unit is coupled to the base member to move in the first direction relative to the user operating member in response to the first movement of the user operating member. An operating device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the electrical switch unit includes a second electrical switch configured to be actuated in response to the second movement of the user operating member. An operating device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the second electrical switch is configured to remain unactuated relative to the user operating member in response to a movement of the user operating member other than the second movement. An operating device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electrical switch unit comprises a circuit configured to generate a first signal in response to the first movement of the user operating member, and the circuit configured to generate a second signal in response to the second movement of the user operating member. An operating device as claimed in claim 13, wherein the circuit is electrically connected to at least one of a wireless communicator and a notification unit. An operating device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction. An operating device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the base member includes a handlebar clamp adapted to be attached to a handlebar. An operating device for a human-powered vehicle, the operating device comprising: a base member; a user operating member, which is movably coupled to the base member; a first guide structure, which is arranged on the base member to movably guide the user operating member in a first direction relative to the base member; a second guide structure, which is arranged on the user operating member to movably guide the user operating member in a second direction different from the first direction relative to the base member. an operating member; and an electrical switch unit configured to move relative to the user operating member in response to a first movement of the user operating member in the first direction, and the electrical switch unit configured to move relative to the base member in response to a second movement of the user operating member in the second direction, wherein one of the base member and the user operating member has a limiting member configured to prevent the user operating member from moving in the first direction and the second direction at the same time.