TW202400474A - Switch unit and operating device for human-powered vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

A switch unit for a human-powered vehicle comprises a switch base, a switch cover, a switch, and a restricting structure. The switch cover is configured to be attached to the switch base to define an internal space between the switch base and the switch cover. The switch is configured to be activated in response to a user input. The switch is configured to be operated in a first direction. The switch is mounted to the switch base, the switch being provided in the internal space. The restricting structure is provided separately from the switch cover and the switch. The restricting structure is at least partially provided between the switch cover and the switch base to restrict the switch from moving relative to the switch base in at least one of the first direction and a second direction different from the first direction.

Description

Switching unit and operating device for human-driven vehicles

The invention relates to a switching unit and an operating device for a human-driven vehicle.

The human powered vehicle includes an operating unit including a switching device configured to operate an operating unit. The switching device includes a switching element configured to be operated by a user. The switching element is usually fixed to a base of the switching device to stabilize a position of the switching element relative to the base. However, this structure makes it difficult to replace the switching element with another switching element during maintenance. An object of the present disclosure is to stabilize a position of the switching element relative to the base while replacing the switching element with another switching element.

This application claims the rights and domestic priority of the German patent application DE 10 2022 106 497.2 filed on March 21, 2022. The entire disclosure of German patent application DE 10 2022 106 497.2 is incorporated herein by reference.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a switching unit for a human-driven vehicle includes a switch base, a switch cover, a switch and a limiting structure. The switch cover is configured to be mounted to the switch base to define an interior space between the switch base and the switch cover. The switch is configured to be activated in response to a user input. The switch is configured to operate in a first direction. The switch is installed on the switch base, and the switch is arranged in the inner space. The restriction structure is provided separately from the switch cover and the switch. The restriction structure is at least partially disposed between the switch cover and the switch base to restrict the switch from moving relative to the switch base along at least one of the first direction and a second direction, and the second The direction is different from the first direction.

With the switching unit according to the first aspect, the limiting structure can limit the movement of the switch relative to the switch base along at least one of the first direction and the second direction different from the first direction. It thus stabilizes a position of the switch relative to the switch base, while the switch can be replaced with another switch.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the switching unit is configured according to the first aspect, so that the restriction structure includes a biasing component, the biasing component is at least partially disposed between the switch cover and the switch. , to bias the switch toward the switch base.

By utilizing the switching unit according to the second aspect, a relatively simple structure can be used to stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the first or the second aspect, so that the restriction structure has a holder installed on the switch base relative to the switch base. The switch base holds the switch.

With the switching unit according to the third aspect, the retaining member is used to stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base in at least one of when the switching unit is assembled and when the switching unit is used. Therefore, it can stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base with a relatively simple structure.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit configured according to the third aspect is such that the holder is detachably mounted to the switch base to hold the switch relative to the switch base.

By utilizing the switching unit according to the fourth aspect, a relatively simple structure can be used to stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base, and at the same time, the switch can be replaced with another switch.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the third or fourth aspect, so that the restriction structure has a biasing component, and the biasing component directs the retaining member and the switch toward the Switch base offset.

Utilizing the switching unit according to the fifth aspect, it can reliably stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base with a relatively simple structure.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the fifth aspect, so that at least a part of the retaining member is disposed between the bias component and the switch.

With the switching unit according to the sixth aspect, the biasing component holds the holder and the switch relative to the switch base. Therefore, it can reliably stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base with a relatively simple structure.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, so that the restriction structure includes a recess and a protrusion configured to be disposed on in this depression. The recess is provided for one of the switch and the switch base. The protrusion is provided for the other of the switch and the switch base.

By utilizing the switching unit according to the seventh aspect, a relatively simple structure can be used to stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the seventh aspect so that the switch has a mounting surface. The switch base includes a receiving surface that is contactable with the mounting surface when the switch is disposed in the interior space. The recess is provided on one of the mounting surface and the receiving surface. The protrusion is provided on the other of the mounting surface and the receiving surface.

Utilizing the switching unit according to the eighth aspect, it can stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base with a relatively simple structure, and at the same time, stabilize the posture of the switch relative to the switch base.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a switching unit for a human-driven vehicle includes a switch base, a switch cover and a switch. The switch cover is configured to be mounted to the switch base to define an interior space between the switch base and switch cover. The switch is configured to be activated in response to a user input. The switch is mounted to the switch base. The switch is located in this interior space. The switch base includes a first opening connected with the internal space to allow a foreign matter to be discharged from the internal space.

Using the switching unit according to the ninth aspect, if the foreign matter enters the inner space, the foreign matter can be discharged from the inner space through the first opening.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the ninth aspect so that the switch base and the switch cover define a second opening, and the second opening is connected to the internal space to allow The foreign object enters the internal space.

With the switching unit according to the tenth aspect, if the foreign matter enters the internal space through the second opening, the foreign matter can be discharged from the internal space through the first opening.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the tenth aspect so that the first opening has a first area. The second opening has a second area. The first area is different from the second area.

Using the switching unit according to the eleventh aspect, the design flexibility of the first opening and the second opening can be improved.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to the eleventh aspect so that the first area is larger than the second area.

With the switching unit according to the twelfth aspect, if the foreign matter enters the internal space through the second opening, the foreign matter can be reliably discharged from the internal space through the first opening.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to any one of the tenth to twelfth aspects, so that the internal space includes a channel, and the channel is between the first opening and the twelfth aspect. Extend between the second openings to allow the foreign matter to flow from the second opening to the first opening.

With the switching unit according to the thirteenth aspect, if the foreign matter enters the internal space through the second opening, the foreign matter can be reliably discharged from the internal space through the first opening.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to any one of the ninth to thirteenth aspects, so that the switch base includes a first end and a second end, and Extending between the first end and the second end. The first opening is closer to the first end than the switch.

Using the switching unit according to the fourteenth aspect, it can reliably discharge the foreign matter from the internal space through the first opening, and at the same time, it can reduce the flow of the foreign matter to the switch.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the switching unit is configured according to any one of the ninth to fourteenth aspects, so that the switch is configured to operate in a first direction. The first opening is at least partially offset from the switch when viewed from the first direction.

Using the switching unit according to the fifteenth aspect, it can reliably discharge the foreign matter from the internal space through the first opening, and at the same time, it can reduce the flow of the foreign matter to the switch.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, an operating device for a human-driven vehicle includes a base structure and the switching unit according to any one of the first to fifth aspects. The switching unit is pivotably coupled to the base structure about a pivot axis.

Using the switching unit according to the sixteenth aspect, the switching unit can be applied to the operating device. Thus, it is possible to stabilize the position of the switch relative to the switch base while allowing the switch to be replaced with another switch in the operating device.

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein like element numbers refer to corresponding or identical elements throughout the various figures.

As shown in Figure 1, an operating device 10 for a human powered vehicle 2 is configured to operate at least one device. The operating device 10 is configured to be mounted to a tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 . In this application, a human-powered vehicle includes various bicycles, such as a mountain bike, a road bicycle, a city bicycle, a cargo bicycle, a hand bicycle and a recumbent bicycle. Furthermore, the human-driven vehicle includes an electric bicycle (E-bike). The electric bicycle includes an electrically assisted bicycle configured to utilize an electric motor to assist in propelling the vehicle. However, the total number of wheels on a human-driven vehicle is not limited to two. For example, the human-driven vehicle includes one wheel or three or more wheels. In particular, the human-driven vehicle does not include vehicles powered only by an internal combustion engine. Generally, a light road vehicle, including vehicles that do not require a driving license on a public road, is assumed to be a human-powered vehicle.

The operating device 10 is configured to be electrically connected to an electronic device BC1. In this embodiment, the operating device 10 is configured to be connected to the electronic device BC1 via a wireless communication channel. The operating device 10 is configured to wirelessly connect to the electronic device BC1.

The operating device 10 is configured to be electrically connected to an electronic device BC2. In this embodiment, the operating device 10 is configured to be connected to the electronic device BC2 via a wired communication channel. The operating device 10 is configured to be connected to the electronic device BC2 via a cable 5 .

Examples of electronic devices BC1 and BC2 include an add-on or satellite operating device, an adjustable seat post, a suspension, a shifting device, a braking device, a lighting device, a display device, a bicycle computer, a smartphone, A tablet and a PC. In this embodiment, the electronic device BC1 includes a transmission device, such as a derailleur. Electronic device BC2 includes a satellite operating device. However, the electronic devices BC1 and BC2 are not limited to the above devices.

In this embodiment, the operating device 10 is a right-hand operating/control device configured to be operated by the rider's right hand to actuate the electronic device BC1 or other devices. However, the structure of the operating device 10 can be applied to a left-hand operating device.

In this application, the following directional terms "before", "after", "forward", "backward", "left", "right", "lateral", "upward" and "downward" and any Other similar directional terms mean that the user (such as a rider) is sitting in the user's standard position (such as on a seat cushion or a seat) in the human-driven vehicle 2, facing a steering gear or a handlebar. direction. Accordingly, these terms used to describe the operating device 10 or other elements should be interpreted relative to a human-driven vehicle 2 equipped with the operating device 10 when used in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface.

The human powered vehicle 2 includes an additional operating device 6 . The additional operating device 6 is configured to operate at least one element. The additional operating device 6 is configured to be mounted to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 . The additional operating device 6 includes an operating body 6A, an operating lever 6B and a mounting component 6C. The operating lever 6B is pivotally coupled to the operating body 6A. The operating body 6A includes a hydraulic unit configured to generate a hydraulic pressure in response to a movement of the operating rod 6B.

The mounting assembly 6C is configured to couple the operating body 6A to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 . The mounting assembly 6C includes a mounting opening 6D. When the mounting assembly 6C couples the operating body 6A to the tubular portion 4 of the human-driven cart 2 , the tubular portion 4 of the human-powered cart 2 extends through the mounting opening 6D. In this embodiment, the mounting assembly 6C includes a clamp. However, the structure of the mounting assembly 6C is not limited to the caliper.

The additional operating device 6 is configured to be connected to an additional electronic device BC3. In this embodiment, the additional operating device 6 is configured to be connected to the additional electronic device BC3 via a hydraulic hose 8 . However, the additional operating device 6 may be configured to be connected to the additional electronic device BC3 via other elements such as a mechanical cable (eg Bowden cable).

Examples of additional BC3 electronics include an adjustable seat post, a suspension, a shifting unit and a brake unit. In this embodiment, the additional electronic device BC3 includes a hydraulic brake device. However, the additional electronic device BC3 is not limited to the above-mentioned device.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the operating device 10 of the human-driven vehicle 2 includes a base structure 12 . The base structure 12 is configured for mounting to the human powered vehicle 2 . The base structure 12 is configured for mounting to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 . The tubular portion 4 has a longitudinal central axis 4A. The tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 extends along the longitudinal center axis 4A.

The operating device 10 also includes a mounting structure 14 . The mounting structure 14 is configured to couple the base structure 12 to the human powered vehicle 2 . The mounting structure 14 is configured to couple the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 . In this embodiment, the operating device 10 is configured to be mounted to a flat handle. However, if needed and/or desired, the mounting structure 14 may be configured to couple the base structure 12 to other types of handlebars, such as drop-down handlebars, a time trial handlebar, and a horn handlebar.

The mounting structure 14 includes at least one of a mounting component 6C and an adjustment component. In this embodiment, the mounting structure 14 includes a mounting base 16 and an adjustment component 18 . However, if needed and/or desired, the mounting structure 14 may include a mounting assembly 6C configured to couple the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , a mounting base 16 is secured to the base structure 12 . Adjustment assembly 18 is adjustably mounted to mounting base 16 and configured to adjustably couple mounting base 16 to mounting assembly 6C. In this embodiment, the mounting structure 14 is configured to couple the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human-driven vehicle 2 so that the base structure 12 is located at any position within an adjustable range AR1. The mounting structure 14 is configured to couple the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 such that the base structure 12 is positioned anywhere within an additional adjustable range AR2. If needed and/or desired, the mounting structure 14 may be configured to couple the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 such that the base structure 12 is positioned between the adjustable range AR1 and the additional adjustable range AR2 Any location within only one of them.

As shown in Figure 2, the mounting base 16 is integrally provided with at least a portion of the base structure 12 as a one-piece unitary assembly. The adjustment assembly 18 is a separate assembly from the mounting base 16 . Mounting base 16 includes an elongated opening 16A. Adjustment assembly 18 is movably disposed in elongated opening 16A. If needed and/or desired, mounting base 16 may be a separate component from at least a portion of base structure 12 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , in an installed state in which the mounting structure 14 secures the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 , the adjustment assembly 18 extends through the elongated opening 16A. In a state where the mounting structure 14 does not secure the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 , the adjustment assembly 18 is moveable relative to the base structure 12 within the elongated opening 16A. The elongated opening 16A of the mounting base 16 defines an adjustable range AR1. The elongated opening 16A extends along the longitudinal center axis 4A of the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 .

As shown in Figure 1, mounting assembly 6C includes an additional elongated opening 6E. The adjustment assembly 18 is configured to be movably disposed in the additional elongated opening 6E. In the mounted state of the mounting structure 14 coupling the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 , the adjustment assembly 18 is disposed in the elongated opening 16A and the additional elongated opening 6E. In the state where the mounting structure 14 does not secure the base structure 12 to the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 , the adjustment assembly 18 is movable relative to the mounting assembly 6C of the additional operating device 6 within the additional elongated opening 6E. The additional elongated opening 6E of the mounting assembly 6C defines an additional adjustable range AR2. An additional elongated opening 6E extends along an outer peripheral surface of the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 about the longitudinal central axis 4A.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the adjustment component 18 includes an adjustment screw 20 and an adjustment component 22 . The adjustment assembly 22 includes a through hole 22A, and the through hole 22A has an adjustment threaded hole 22B. The adjusting screw 20 is screwed into the adjusting threaded hole 22B of the adjusting component 22 . The adjustment assembly 22 includes a flange portion 22C. The mounting assembly 6C of the additional operating device 6 is held between the mounting base 16 and the flange portion 22C of the adjustment assembly 22 . However, the structure of the adjustment component 18 is not limited to the structure shown in the figure.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the operating device 10 of the human-driven vehicle 2 includes a switching unit SW1. Switching unit SW1 is configured to be activated in response to a user input U1. The user input U1 includes an operating force F1 applied to the switching unit SW1. Therefore, the switching unit SW1 is configured to be activated in response to the operating force F1.

The operating device 10 of the human-driven vehicle 2 includes a switching unit SW2. Switching unit SW2 is configured to be activated in response to a user input U2. The user input U2 includes an operating force F2 applied to the switching unit SW2. Therefore, the switching unit SW2 is configured to be activated in response to the operating force F2.

The switching unit SW1 has substantially the same structure as that of the switching unit SW2. However, the switching unit SW1 may have a different structure from that of the switching unit SW2 if necessary and/or desired. If necessary and/or desired, one of the switching units SW1 and SW2 may be omitted from the operating device 10 .

The switching unit SW1 for the human-driven vehicle 2 includes a switch base 32 and a switch cover 34 . Switch cover 34 is configured to mount to switch base 32 . The switch cover 34 is pivotally coupled to the switch base 32 about a cover pivot axis CA1. Switch cover 34 is configured to receive user input U1. In response to user input U1, the switch cover 34 can pivot relative to the switch base 32 about the cover pivot axis CA1.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the switching unit SW1 includes a pivot pin 36 and a snap ring 38 . The pivot pin 36 pivotally couples the switch base 32 and the switch cover 34 about the cover pivot axis CA1. Switch base 32 includes a pivot hole 32A. Pivot pin 36 extends through pivot hole 32A. Snap ring 38 is mounted to one end of pivot pin 36 .

As shown in FIG. 5 , the switch cover 34 includes a first pivot hole 34H1 and a second pivot hole 34H2. The first pivot hole 34H1 and the second pivot hole 34H2 are separated along the cover pivot axis CA1. The pivot pin 36 extends through the first pivot hole 34H1 and the second pivot hole 34H2.

Switch cover 34 is a separate component from switch base 32 . In this embodiment, the switch base 32 is made of a first material. The switch cover 34 is made of a second material different from the first material. The first material includes a resin material. The second material includes an elastic material. Examples of elastic materials include elastomers such as a rubber. However, the first material and the second material are not limited to the above materials.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the switching unit SW1 of the human-driven vehicle 2 includes a switch 40 . Switch 40 is configured to be activated in response to user input U1. Switch 40 is mounted to switch base 32 . The switch base 32 has a mounting recess 41 . The switch 40 is arranged in the mounting recess 41 .

In this embodiment, the switching unit SW1 is configured to be detachably coupled to the base structure 12 . The switching unit SW1 is configured to be detachably and reconnectably coupled to the base structure 12 . However, the switching unit SW1 may be coupled to the base structure 12 so as not to be detachable from the base structure.

As used herein, the terms "detachable and reconnectable" and "detachable and reconnectable" include where an element is repeatedly detachable and reconnectable to another element without substantial damage Configuration.

The operating device 10 includes a fixing member 42 . The fixing member 42 is configured to detachably and reconnectably couple the switching unit SW1 and the base structure 12 . The fastener 42 is configured to removably and reconnectably couple the switch base 32 and the base structure 12 .

As shown in FIG. 6 , the base structure 12 includes a fastener opening 48 . The switch base 32 includes a threaded hole 50 . The fastener 42 extends through the fastener opening 48 and the threaded hole 50 . The fixing member 42 includes an external thread 42A, and the external thread 42A engages with the threaded hole 50 of the switch base 32 . The operating device 10 includes a gasket 52 . The fixing member 42 includes a head 42B. In a state where the fixture 42 connects the switch base 32 to the base structure 12 , the washer 52 is retained between the head 42B of the fixture 42 and the base structure 12 .

As shown in FIG. 7 , the switching unit SW1 is pivotally coupled to the base structure 12 about a pivot axis A1 . The switching unit SW1 is pivotally coupled to the base structure 12 about the pivot axis A1 so that a position of the switching unit SW1 is selectively adjustable relative to the base structure 12 .

Switch base 32 is pivotally coupled to base structure 12 about pivot axis A1. In this embodiment, the base structure 12 includes a first contact surface 54 . Switch base 32 includes a second contact surface 56 . First contact surface 54 includes a curved concave surface 54A. The second contact surface 56 includes a curved convex surface 56A. The curved concave surface 54A and the curved convex surface 56A extend in the circumferential direction around the pivot axis A1. The second contact surface 56 of the switch base 32 is pressed against the first contact surface 54 of the base structure 12 in a state where the fastener 42 securely connects the switch base 32 to the base structure 12 . The second contact surface 56 of the switch base 32 is slidable with the first contact surface 54 of the base structure 12 in a state where the fixing member 42 is released. The position of the switching unit SW1 is therefore selectively adjustable about the pivot axis A1 relative to the base structure.

In this embodiment, the pivot axis A1 is consistent with the cover pivot axis CA1. However, if needed and/or desired, pivot A1 may be offset from cover pivot CA1. If necessary and/or desired, the switching unit SW1 may be fixedly coupled to the base structure 12 so as not to be pivotable relative to the base structure 12 .

As shown in FIG. 5 , switch cover 34 is configured to mount to switch base 32 to define an interior space 58 between switch base 32 and switch cover 34 . The switch 40 is provided in the interior space 58 . However, switch 40 may be positioned at least partially outside interior space 58 if needed and/or desired.

Switch 40 is configured to operate in a first direction D31. The switch 40 includes a switch circuit 40A, a button 40B, a base 40C and a housing 40D. The switch circuit 40A and the base 40C are provided in the housing 40D. The switch circuit 40A includes a movable contact point 40F and a fixed contact point 40G. Fixed contact point 40G is provided on base 40C. The movable contact point 40F is elastically deformable and is provided on the base 40C. The movable contact point 40F can be in contact with the fixed contact point 40G. Button 40B is removably mounted to base 40C. Button 40B is movable relative to base 40C in a first direction D31 in response to user input U1. Switching unit SW1 includes a cable 59 . The movable contact point 40F and the fixed contact point 40G are electrically connected to the cable 59 .

In a state where the button 40B does not receive the user input U1, the movable contact point 40F is not in contact with the fixed contact point 40G. When button 40B transmits user input U1 to movable contact point 40F, movable contact point 40F elastically deforms to contact fixed contact point 40G.

The intermediate assembly 60 is disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch 40 . The intermediate assembly 60 is a separate assembly from the switch cover 34 . The switch cover 34 has a cover body 34A and an engaging portion 34B. Cover body 34A is elastically deformable in response to user input U1. The engaging portion 34B is provided on an inner surface 34C of the cover body 34A. The intermediate assembly 60 is provided between the engaging portion 34B and the button 40B of the switch 40 . The engaging portion 34B engages with the intermediate component 60 to maintain a position of the intermediate component 60 between the engaging portion 34B and the button 40B of the switch 40 .

The engaging portion 34B and the intermediate component 60 have a concave and convex shape. The middle component 60 includes a locking hole 60A and a recess 60B. The engaging part 34B includes a first engaging part 34B1 and a second engaging part 34B2. The first engaging portion 34B1 protrudes toward the switch 40 from the inner surface 34C. The first engaging portion 34B1 is provided in the engaging hole 60A. The second engaging portion 34B2 protrudes toward the switch 40 from the inner surface 34C. The second engaging portion 34B2 has an annular shape. The first engaging portion 34B1 is provided radially inwardly on the second engaging portion 34B2.

The intermediate component 60 is at least partially disposed in the second engaging portion 34B2. The button 40B of the switch 40 is at least partially disposed in the recess 60B in the middle assembly 60 and engages with the engaging portion 34B. In this embodiment, the intermediate component 60 is partially disposed in the second engaging portion 34B2. Button 40B of switch 40 is partially disposed in recess 60B. However, if necessary and/or desired, the intermediate component 60 may be completely disposed in the second engaging portion 34B2. If needed and/or desired, button 40B of switch 40 may be disposed entirely within recess 60B. The engaging portion 34B can restrict the intermediate component 60 from falling off from the engaging portion 34B.

The intermediate component 60 may be in contact with the button 40B of the switch 40 . When switch cover 34 pivots relative to switch base 32 about cover pivot axis CA1 in response to user input U1, intermediate assembly 60 makes contact with button 40B. Intermediate component 60 is configured to transmit user input U1 to button 40B of switch 40 . The shapes of the engaging portion 34B and the intermediate component 60 are not limited to the illustrated embodiment. If needed and/or desired, the intermediate component 60 may be omitted from the switching unit SW1. Snap portion 34B may be configured to contact button 40B of switch 40 if needed and/or desired.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the switching unit SW1 of the human-driven vehicle 2 includes a limiting structure 62 . The restriction structure 62 is provided separately from the switch cover 34 and the switch 40 . The restriction structure 62 is at least partially disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch base 32 to restrict the switch 40 from moving relative to the switch base 32 along at least one of a first direction D31 and a second direction D32 . The second directions D32 and/or D33 are different from the first direction D31.

In this embodiment, the restriction structure 62 is partially disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch base 32 to restrict the switch from moving in the second direction D32 relative to the switch base 32 . The second direction D32 is perpendicular to the first direction D31. However, the second direction D32 may not be perpendicular to the first direction D31 if needed and/or desired. The limiting structure 62 may be integrally disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch base 32 to limit the movement of the switch relative to the switch base 32 in the second direction D32. The second directions D32 and D33 are not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the restriction structure 62 is at least partially disposed in the interior space 58 . In this embodiment, the restriction structure 62 is entirely disposed in the interior space 58 . However, the restriction structure 62 may be partially disposed within the interior space 58 if needed and/or desired.

Limiting structure 62 includes a biasing component 64 . A biasing assembly 64 is at least partially disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch 40 to bias the switch 40 toward the switch base 32 . Bias assembly 64 is a separate component from switch base 32 , switch cover 34 , and switch 40 . Bias assembly 64 is compressed between switch cover 34 and switch 40 . In this embodiment, the biasing assembly 64 is integrally disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch 40 to bias the switch 40 toward the switch base 32 . Biasing assembly 64 includes a coil spring. However, if needed and/or desired, the biasing assembly 64 may be partially disposed between the switch cover 34 and the switch 40 to bias the switch 40 toward the switch base 32 . Biasing component 64 may include components other than coil springs (eg, a resilient material such as rubber).

Switch 40 includes a mounting surface 40S. Switch base 32 includes a receiving surface 32S. In a state where the switch 40 is disposed in the interior space 58, the receiving surface 32S may be in contact with the mounting surface 40S. The mounting surface 40S extends along the second direction D32. The receiving surface 32S extends in the second direction D32. Biasing assembly 64 biases switch 40 against receiving surface 32S. Accordingly, the biasing assembly 64 is configured to limit movement of the switch 40 relative to the switch base 32 in the first direction D31 .

The switch cover 34 includes a first support member 34D. The first support member 34D is provided on the inner surface 34C of the cover body 34A. The first support member 34D protrudes toward the switch 40 from the cover body 34A. The biasing component 64 includes a first biasing end 64A and a second biasing end 64B. The first offset end 64A is engaged with the first support member 34D. The first support 34D is configured to support the first biasing end 64A of the biasing assembly 64 .

As shown in FIG. 8 , the restriction structure 62 includes a retainer 66 . Retainer 66 is mounted to switch base 32 to retain switch 40 relative to switch base 32 . Retainer 66 is removably mounted to switch base 32 to retain switch 40 relative to switch base 32 . Retainer 66 is a separate component from switch base 32 , switch cover 34 , switch 40 and biasing assembly 64 . Retainer 66 is removable and reinstallable to switch base 32 to retain switch 40 relative to switch base 32 . Retainer 66 may be non-removably mounted to switch base 32 to retain switch 40 relative to switch base 32 . If needed and/or desired, retainer 66 may be provided integrally with biasing assembly 64 as a one-piece unitary assembly.

As shown in FIG. 9 , the holder 66 includes a holder body 66A, a first engaging body 66B and a second engaging body 66C. The first engaging body 66B protrudes from the holder body 66A along the first direction D31. The second engaging body 66C protrudes from the holder body 66A in the first direction D31. The first engaging body 66B is separated from the second engaging body 66C. The first engaging body 66B is elastically deformable relative to the holder body 66A. The second engaging body 66C is elastically deformable relative to the holder body 66A.

The retaining member 66 includes a second support member 66D. The second support member 66D is provided on the holder body 66A. The second supporter 66D protrudes from the holder body 66A in the first direction D31. The second bias end 64B of the bias component 64 is engaged with the second support member 66D. The second support 66D is configured to support the second biasing end 64B of the biasing assembly 64 . The second support member 66D includes a support recess 66E. The second bias end 64B of the bias assembly 64 is disposed in the support recess 66E.

As shown in Figure 10, retainer 66 includes a support surface 66F. Retainer body 66A includes a support surface 66F. The supporting surface 66F includes a first supporting surface 66G and a second supporting surface 66H. The second support surface 66H is spaced apart from the first support surface 66G.

As shown in FIG. 8 , the support surface 66F is in contact with the switch 40 in a state where the retainer 66 is pressed against the switch 40 by the biasing assembly 64 . Each of the first support surface 66G and the second support surface 66H is in contact with the switch 40 in the state where the support member 66 is pressed against the switch 40 by the biasing assembly 64 .

The switch base 32 includes a first installation opening 32B and a second installation opening 32C. The first engaging body 66B extends through the first installation opening 32B in a state where the retaining member 66 is installed on the switch base 32 . The second engaging body 66C extends through the second mounting opening 32C in this state where the retaining member 66 is mounted to the switch base 32 .

The first engaging body 66B includes a first protrusion 66B1. The second engaging body 66C includes a second protrusion 66C1. The first protrusion 66B1 is configured to engage with the switch base 32 in a state where the first engaging body 66B is disposed in the first mounting opening 32B. The second protrusion 66C1 is configured to engage with the switch base 32 in a state where the second engaging body 66C is disposed in the second mounting opening 32C. The first protrusion 66B1 and the second protrusion 66C1 are configured to restrict the retainer 66 from falling off the switch base 32 . Accordingly, the retainer 66 is configured to limit movement of the switch 40 relative to the switch base 32 in the first direction D31 . In addition, the first protrusion 66B1 and the second protrusion 66C1 are configured to restrict the switch 40 from moving in the second direction D33 relative to the switch base 32 .

As shown in FIG. 8 , the switch 40 is disposed between the first engaging body 66B and the second engaging body 66C along the second direction D33. The limiting structure 62 includes a limiting recess 67 . The restriction recess 67 is provided on the receiving surface 32S of the switch base 32 . The restriction recess 67 is recessed in the first direction D31 from the receiving surface 32S. The switch 40 has a protrusion 40P provided on the mounting surface 40S. The protruding portion 40P protrudes from the mounting surface 40S in the first direction D31. The protrusion 40P is provided in the restriction recess 67 . Accordingly, the limiting recess 67 is configured to limit movement of the switch 40 relative to the switch base 32 in the second direction D33.

Biasing assembly 64 is configured to bias retainer 66 and switch 40 toward switch base 32 . Retainer 66 is at least partially disposed between biasing assembly 64 and switch 40 . Biasing assembly 64 is compressed between retainer 66 and switch cover 34 . In this embodiment, retainer 66 is partially disposed between biasing member 64 and switch 40 . However, retainer 66 may be disposed entirely between biasing assembly 64 and switch 40 if needed and/or desired.

The switch base 32 includes first stop surfaces 32E1 and 32E2. The switch cover 34 includes second stop surfaces 34E1 and 34E1. The first stop surface 32E1 may be in contact with the second stop surface 34E1. The first stop surface 32E2 may contact the second stop surface 34E2. The first blocking surface 32E1 is pressed against the second blocking surface 34E1 by the biasing force of the biasing component 64 . The first blocking surface 32E2 is pressed against the second blocking surface 34E2 by the biasing force of the biasing component 64 . Accordingly, the first stop surfaces 32E1 and 32E2 and the second stop surfaces 34E1 and 34E1 are configured to maintain the switch cover 34 in a rest position relative to the switch base 32 .

In this application, the term "rest position" used herein refers to a position in which a movable part, such as the switch cover 34, remains stationary in a state where the user does not operate the movable part. As used herein, the term "operating position" refers to a position in which a user has operated the movable member to perform an operation of the bicycle element.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the restriction structure 62 includes a recess 68 and a protrusion 70 . Protrusion 70 is configured to be disposed in recess 68 . Recess 68 is provided in one of the switch and switch base 32 . A protrusion 70 is provided on the other of the switch and the switch base 32 . In this embodiment, the recess 68 is provided on the switch base 32 . The protrusion 70 is provided on the switch 40 . Protrusion 70 protrudes from switch 40 . Protrusion 70 protrudes from housing 40D of switch 40 . However, recess 68 may be provided to switch 40 if needed and/or desired. Protrusions 70 may be provided to switch base 32 if needed and/or desired.

Recesses 68 are provided in one of the mounting surface 40S and the receiving surface 32S. Protrusion 70 is provided on the other of mounting surface 40S and receiving surface 32S. In this embodiment, recesses 68 are provided on receiving surface 32S. Protrusions 70 are provided on the mounting surface 40S. However, if needed and/or desired, recesses 68 may be provided on the mounting surface 40S. If needed and/or desired, protrusions 70 may be provided on receiving surface 32S. The recesses 68 and protrusions 70 are configured to limit movement of the switch 40 relative to the switch base 32 in the second directions D32 and D33 .

As shown in FIG. 6 , the retainer 66 is at least partially offset from the switching circuit 40A in the second direction D32 . The retainer 66 is at least partially offset from the recess 68 in the second direction D32. The protrusion 70 at least partially overlaps the switching circuit 40A in the second direction D32. The recess 68 at least partially overlaps the switching circuit 40A in the second direction D32.

In this embodiment, the support member 66 is entirely offset from the switching circuit 40A toward the second direction D32. The retainer 66 is completely offset from the protrusion 70 in the second direction D32. The retaining member 66 is fully offset from the recess 68 in the second direction D32. The protrusion 70 completely overlaps the switching circuit 40A in the second direction D32. The recess 68 completely overlaps the switching circuit 40A in the second direction D32. However, if needed and/or desired, retainer 66 may be partially offset in second direction D32 from switching circuit 40A. If needed and/or desired, retainer 66 may be partially offset from protrusion 70 in second direction D32. If needed and/or desired, retainer 66 may be partially offset from recess 68 in second direction D32. If needed and/or desired, protrusion 70 may be provided to partially overlap switching circuit 40A in second direction D32. If needed and/or desired, recess 68 may be provided to partially overlap switching circuit 40A in second direction D32.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 11 , the switch base 32 includes a first opening 80 . The first opening 80 is connected to the interior space 58 to allow a foreign object to be discharged from the interior space 58 . The first opening 80 is connected to the interior space 58 to allow the foreign matter to enter the interior space 58 .

The switching unit SW1 includes a first side S1 and a second side S2. The second side is disposed on an opposite side to the first side S1 in the first direction D31. The switch base 32 defines a first side S1. The first opening 80 is provided on the first side S1.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 12 , the switch base 32 and the switch cover 34 define a second opening 82 . The second opening 82 is connected to the interior space 58 to allow the foreign matter to enter the interior space 58 . The second opening 82 is connected to the interior space 58 to allow the foreign matter to be discharged from the interior space 58 . The second opening 82 is provided on the second side S2. Cable 59 extends through first opening 80 .

Interior space 58 includes a passage 84 . Channel 84 extends between first opening 80 and second opening 82 to allow the foreign matter to flow between second opening 82 and first opening 80 . Channel 84 extends between first opening 80 and second opening 82 to allow the foreign matter to flow from second opening 82 to first opening 80 . Channel 84 extends between first opening 80 and second opening 82 to allow the foreign matter to flow from first opening 80 to second opening 82 . In this embodiment, the cable 59 does not extend through the second opening 82 . However, if necessary and/or desired, the cable 59 can extend through the second opening 82 as well as the switching unit SW2 (see eg Figure 12).

As shown in Figure 13, the switch base 32 includes a groove 32G. The groove 32G extends along the first direction D31. Groove 32G at least partially defines first opening 80 . In this embodiment, groove 32G partially defines first opening 80 . However, if needed and/or desired, groove 32G may completely define first opening 80.

As shown in FIG. 6 , groove 32G extends between first opening 80 and second opening 82 . Channel 84 includes groove 32G. The switch base 32 includes a first end 32K1 and a second end 32K2. The switch base 32 extends between the first end 32K1 and the second end 32K2. The switch base 32 extends along the second direction D32 between the first end 32K1 and the second end 32K2. The first opening 80 is disposed closer to the first end 32K1 than the switch 40 . The second opening 82 is disposed closer to the first end 32K1 than the switch 40 . In the second direction D32, the first opening 80 is disposed closer to the first end 32K1 than the switch 40. In the second direction D32, the second opening 82 is disposed closer to the first end 32K1 than the switch 40. However, if needed and/or desired, the first opening 80 may be positioned closer to the second end 32K2 than the switch 40 .

As shown in FIG. 14 , the first opening 80 is at least partially offset from the switch 40 when viewed from the first direction D31 . In this embodiment, when viewed from the first direction D31, the first opening 80 is entirely offset from the switch 40 in the second direction D32. Viewed from the first direction D31 , the first opening 80 is provided not to overlap the switch 40 . However, if needed and/or desired, the first opening 80 may be partially offset from the switch 40 as viewed in the first direction D31. If necessary and/or desired, the first opening 80 may be provided to at least partially overlap the switch 40 when viewed from the first direction D31 .

As shown in FIG. 15 , the second opening 82 is at least partially offset from the switch 40 when viewed from the first direction D31 . In this embodiment, the second opening 82 is entirely offset from the switch 40 when viewed from the first direction D31 . Viewed from the first direction D31 , the second opening 82 is provided not to overlap the switch 40 . However, if needed and/or desired, the second opening 82 may be partially offset from the switch 40 as viewed in the first direction D31. If necessary and/or desired, the second opening 82 may be positioned to at least partially overlap the switch 40 when viewed from the first direction D31 .

As shown in Figure 14, the first opening 80 has a first area 80A. The first area 80A is defined when viewed from the first direction D31. In FIG. 14, the first area 80A is represented by a single-dot chain line.

As shown in Figure 15, the second opening 82 has a second area 82A. In FIG. 15 , the first area 80A is represented by a double-dot chain line. In this embodiment, the first area 80A is different from the second area 82A. The first area 80A is larger than the second area 82A. Viewed from the first direction D31 , the second opening 82 at least partially overlaps the first opening 80 . Viewed from the first direction D31, the second opening 82 partially overlaps the first opening 80. However, if needed and/or desired, first area 80A may be less than or equal to second area 82A. If necessary and/or desired, the second opening 82 may be provided to completely overlap the first opening 80 when viewed from the first direction D31.

The switching unit SW2 has substantially the same structure as the switching unit SW1. The description and depiction of the switching unit SW2 may be regarded as the description and depiction of the switching unit SW2. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, they are not described in detail here.

As shown in FIG. 16 , the operating device 10 includes an electronic component EC, an additional switching unit SW3, a cable 90 and an additional cable 92 . The electronic component EC is configured to be electrically connected to the switching unit SW1 via a cable 59 . The electronic component EC is configured to be electrically connected to the switching unit SW2 via the cable 90 . The electronic component EC is configured to be electrically connected to the additional switching unit SW3 via an additional cable 92 .

The base structure 12 includes a first base 94 and a second base 96 . The second base 96 is detachably and reconnectably fixed to the first base 94 using fasteners 12C, 12D and 12E. The switching unit SW1 is pivotally connected to the first base 94 with the pivot axis A1 as the center. The switching unit SW2 is coupled to the first base 94 with the pivot axis A2 as the center.

The first base 94 includes a receiving space 94A. The electronic component EC is provided in the accommodation space 94A. The electronic component EC is disposed between the first base 94 and the second base 96 in a state where the second base 96 is fixed to the first base 94 . The mounting base 16 of the mounting structure 14 and the second base 96 are integrally provided as an integrated single component. The first base 94 includes a plurality of separate parts. However, the mounting base 16 of the mounting structure 14 may be a separate component from the second base 96 if needed and/or desired. If needed and/or desired, first base 94 may be integrally provided as a one-piece unitary component.

Additional switching unit SW3 is configured to be activated in response to additional user input U3. The additional switching unit SW3 includes an additional switch 98 and an operating component 100 . The additional switch 98 has substantially the same structure as the switch 40 of the switching unit SW1. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, it is not described in detail here. The additional switching unit SW3 can be omitted from the operating device 10 if necessary and/or desired.

The operating assembly 100 is pivotally coupled to the base structure 12 about an additional pivot axis CA3. The operation component 100 is used to receive additional user input U3. Operating component 100 is configured to communicate additional user input U3 to additional switch 98 .

As shown in FIG. 17 , the electronic component EC includes a controller CR, a wireless communicator WC1 and a wired communicator WC2 , a notification unit 104 and a connection port 106 . The controller CR is configured to be electrically connected to the switching unit SW1, the switching unit SW2, the additional switching unit SW3, the wireless communicator WC1, the wired communicator WC2, the notification unit 104 and the connection port 106.

The controller CR includes a hardware processor CR1, a memory CR2, a base board CR3 and a system bus CR4. The hardware processor CR1 and the memory CR2 are electrically installed on the substrate CR3. For example, the hardware processor CR1 includes a central processing unit (CPU) and a memory controller. The hardware processor CR1 is electrically connected to the memory CR2 using the substrate CR3 and the system bus CR4. Each of the wireless communicator WC1 and the wired communicator WC2 is electrically connected to the hardware processor CR1 and the memory CR2 using the substrate CR3 and the system bus CR4.

The memory CR2 includes a read only memory (ROM) and a random access memory (RAM). The memory CR2 includes a plurality of storage areas, each storage area having an address in ROM and RAM. The hardware processor CR1 is used to control the memory CR2 to store data in the storage area of the memory CR2 and to read data from the storage area of the memory CR2. Memory CR2 (such as ROM) stores a program. The program is read into the hardware processor CR1 to execute the configuration and/or algorithm of the controller CR. The structure and/or configuration is not limited to the above structure and/or configuration. The controller CR may also be called a control circuit or line CR. The hardware processor CR1 may also be called a hardware processing circuit or line CR1. Memory CR2 may also be called memory circuit or line CR2.

The wireless communicator WC1, the wired communicator WC2 and the notification unit 104 are electrically installed on the substrate CR3. Wireless communicator WC1 is configured to communicate with another wireless communicator via a wireless communication channel. Wired communicator WC2 is configured to communicate with another wired communicator via a wired communication channel. In this embodiment, the wireless communicator WC1 is configured to communicate with the wireless communicator of the electronic device BC1 through a wireless communication channel. The wired communicator WC2 is configured to communicate with the wired communicator of the electronic device BC2 via a wired communication channel. The wireless communicator WC1 may also be called a wireless communication circuit or line WC1. Wired communicator WC2 may also be called wired communication circuit or line WC2.

Controller CR is configured to control another device in response to user input U1, user input U2, additional user input U3, and/or other information. In this embodiment, the controller CR is configured to generate a control signal CS1 in response to activation of the switching unit SW1. The controller CR is configured to generate a control signal CS2 in response to activation of the switching unit SW2. The controller CR is configured to generate an additional control signal CS3 in response to activation of the additional switching unit SW3.

For example, the controller CR is configured to control the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly send at least one of the control signals CS1, CS2, and CS3 to the electronic device BC1. In the case where the electronic device BC1 includes a transmission device, the controller CR is configured to control the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly send control signals CS1 and CS2 to the electronic device BC1 in response to user inputs U1 and U2, respectively. The control signal CS1 instructs the electronic device BC1 to either upshift or downshift. The control signal CS2 instructs the electronic device BC1 to shift up or down the other one. However, the electronic device BC1 is not limited to the transmission device. If necessary and/or desired, the electronic device BC1 may include an adjustable seat post, a suspension, an auxiliary drive unit, a lighting device and a cycle computer.

In the case where the electronic device BC2 includes an operating device, the controller CR is configured to control the wired communicator WC2 to wirelessly transmit at least one of the control signals CS1, CS2 and CS3 to the electronic device BC2 via the cable 5. For example, in the case where the electronic device BC2 includes an adjustable seat post, the controller CR is configured to control the wired communicator WC2 to send the control signal CS3 to the electronic device BC2 via the cable 5 in response to the user input U3. The control signal CS3 indicates that a state of the electronic device BC2 is changed between a locked state and an adjustable state. However, the electronic BC2 is not limited to an adjustable seatpost. If necessary and/or desired, the electronic device BC2 may include a transmission, a satellite operating device, a suspension, an auxiliary drive unit, a lighting device and a bicycle computer.

In the case where the electronic device BC2 includes a satellite operating device, the controller CR is used to control the wired communicator WC2 to receive the signal from the electronic device BC2, and to control the wireless communicator WC1 to wirelessly transmit the signal to the electronic device BC1 or other electronic devices. . However, the electronic device BC2 is not limited to the satellite operating device. If needed and/or desired, the electronic device BC2 may include a shifting device, an adjustable seat post, a suspension, an auxiliary drive unit, a lighting device, and a cycle computer.

The operating device 10 includes a power supply PS1. The power supply PS1 is configured to power the controller CR, the wireless communicator WC1, the wired communicator WC2, and the notification unit 104. The power supply PS1 includes a battery PS11 and a battery holder PS12. The battery holder PS12 is electrically connected to the controller CR, the wireless communicator WC1, the wired communicator WC2 and the notification unit 104. Battery holder PS12 is configured to removably and reinstallably hold battery PS11.

The human powered vehicle 2 includes an additional power supply PS2. Additional power supply PS2 is configured to power electronic device BC2. The operating device 10 is electrically connected to the additional power supply PS2 via the cable 5 . The additional power supply PS2 is configured to supply power to the operating device 10 via the cable 5 . Therefore, the operating device 10 is configured to be powered by at least one of the power supply PS1 and the additional power supply PS2. However, one of the power supply PS1 and the additional power supply PS2 may be omitted from the human powered vehicle 2 if needed and/or desired.

Controller CR is configured to detect the connection between port 106 and cable 5 . The controller CR is configured to control the wired communicator WC2 to communicate with the electronic device BC2 if the controller CR detects a connection between the connection port 106 and the cable 5 connected to the electronic device BC2. In the case where the electronic device BC2 includes an additional operating device such as a satellite operating device (eg a satellite switch), the controller CR is configured to be based on a control signal transmitted from the electronic device BC2 or other component via the cable 5 and the connection port 106 to control another component such as the electronic device BC1. In the case where the electronic device BC2 includes an operating component, the controller CR is configured to send a control signal to the operating component via the connection port 106 and the cable 5 .

In this embodiment, the wired communicator WC2 is configured to communicate with other wired communicators using power line communication (PLC) technology. PLC technology is used for communication between electronic components. The PLC carries the data on conductors which are also used for power transmission or power distribution from the additional power supply PS2 to the operating device 10 . However, wired communicator WC2 can be configured to communicate with other wired communicators without a PLC.

The controller CR is configured to update the firmware stored in the memory CR2 via the connection port 106 when a device configured to update the firmware is electrically connected to the connection port 106 .

The notification unit 104 is configured to notify a user operating the device 10 of a status. Examples of the status of the operating device 10 include a communication status of the wireless communicator WC1, a communication status of the wired communicator WC2, a potential of the remaining power of the power supply PS1, and a pairing status of the wireless communicator WC1. Examples of the notification unit 104 include a light-emitting device, such as a light-emitting diode (LED), and a speaker.

As shown in Figure 18, the mounting structure 14 may have other structures, such as a caliper. In the modification shown in FIG. 18 , the mounting structure 14 includes a caliper body 214A and a caliper screw 214B. The caliper body 214A includes an opening 214C through which the tubular portion 4 of the human powered vehicle 2 extends. By tightening caliper screw 214B, caliper body 214A is fixedly coupled to tubular portion 4 .

In this application, as used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives mean an open-ended term that specifies the presence of stated features, elements, parts, groups, integers and/or steps. , but the existence of other unspecified features, components, parts, groups, integers and/or steps is not excluded. This concept also applies to words with similar meanings, for example, the terms "have", "include" and their derivatives.

When used in the singular, the terms "component," "section," "part," "section," "element," "body," and "structure" may have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.

The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" described in this application are only for identification and do not have other meanings such as a specific order. Furthermore, for example, the term "first element" itself does not imply the presence of a "second element", and the term "second element" itself does not imply the presence of a "first element".

As used herein, the term "pair" includes, in addition to an arrangement in which a pair of elements have the same shape or structure as each other, an arrangement in which a pair of elements have different shapes or structures from each other.

The terms "a (before a consonant)" (or "a (before a vowel)"), "one or more" and "at least one" are used interchangeably in this context.

The phrase "at least one" as used in this disclosure refers to "one or more" of the desired selections. For example, if the number of choices is two, the phrase "at least one of them" used in this disclosure means "only a single choice" or "two of the two choices." As another example, if the number of choices is equal to or more than three, the phrase "at least one of" used in this disclosure means "only a single choice" or "equal to or more than two choices." Any combination". For example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, and (3) both A and B. The phrase "at least one of A, B and C" includes (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) both A and B, (5) B and C Both, (6) both A and C, and (7) all A, B and C. In other words, in this disclosure, the phrase "at least one of A and B" does not mean "at least one A and at least one B".

Finally, as used herein, terms of degree such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately" refer to a reasonable amount of deviation from the modified terms so that the final results will not significantly change. All numerical values described in this application may be interpreted to include terms such as "substantially," "approximately," and "approximately."

Obviously, many modifications and variations of the invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

2: Human driven vehicle 4: Tubular part 4A: Longitudinal center axis 5: Cable 6: Additional operating devices 6A: Operation body 6B: Operating lever 6C: Install components 6D: Installation opening 6E: Additional slender opening 8:Hydraulic hose 10: Operating device 12: Base structure 12C: Fixtures 12D: Fixtures 12E: Fixtures 14:Installation structure 16:Installation base 16A: Slender opening 18:Adjust components 20:Adjustment screw 22:Adjust components 22A:Through hole 22B:Adjustment threaded hole 22C: Flange part 32:Switch base 32A: Pivot hole 32B: First installation opening 32C: Second installation opening 32E1: First stopping surface 32E2: First stopping surface 32G: Groove 32K1: first end 32K2: Second end 32S: receiving surface 34:Switch cover 34A: Cover body 34B:Latching part 34B1: The first engaging part 34B2: The second engaging part 34C:Inner surface 34E1: Second stop surface 34E2: Second stop surface 34H1: First pivot hole 34H2: Second pivot hole 36: Pivot pin 38: snap ring 40: switch 40A: switching circuit 40B:Button 40C: Base 40D: Shell 40F: Removable contact point 40G: fixed contact point 40P:Protrusion 40S: Installation surface 41: Installation depression 42: Fixtures 42A: External thread 42B:Head 48: Fixture opening 50:Threaded hole 52: Washer 54: First contact surface 54A: Curved concave surface 56: Second contact surface 56A: Curved convex surface 58:Internal space 59:cable 60: Intermediate components 60A:Latching hole 60B:dent 62:Restriction structure 64: Bias component 64A: First bias terminal 64B: Second bias terminal 66:Retainer 66A: Holder body 66B: First engaging body 66B1: The first protrusion 66C: Second engaging body 66C1: Second protrusion 66D: Second support member 66E: Support depression 66F:Support surface 66G: First support surface 66H: Second support surface 67:Limit dent 68:dent 70:Protrusion 80:First opening 80A: The first area 82:Second opening 82A:Second area 84:Channel 90:cable 92:Additional cable 94:First pedestal 94A: Accommodation space 96:Second pedestal 98:Additional switch 100:Operating components 104:Notification unit 106:Connection port 214A:Caliper body 214B: Caliper screw 214C:Open your mouth A1:Pivot AR1: Adjustable range AR2: Additional adjustable range BC1: Electronic device BC2: Electronic device BC3: Additional electronic device CA1: cover pivot CA3: Additional Pivot CR: controller CR1: Hardware controller CR2: memory CR3:Substrate CR4: System bus CS1: control signal CS2: Control signal CS3: Additional control signal D31: first direction D32: Second direction D33: Second direction EC: Electronic components F1: operating force F2: operating force PS1: power supply PS11: battery PS12: battery holder PS2: Additional power supply S1: first side S2: Second side SW1: switching unit SW2: switching unit SW3: Additional switching unit U1: User input U2: User input U3: Additional user input WC1: Wireless Communicator WC2: Wired Communicator

A more complete understanding of the present invention and its many attendant advantages will readily be obtained when the following detailed description is considered in conjunction with the drawings, for which the invention will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an operating device including a switching unit according to an embodiment and an additional operating device for a human-driven vehicle. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device taken along line II-II of FIG. 3 . FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the operating device shown in FIG. 1 . FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device taken along the cross-section line V-V of FIG. 6 . FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device taken along line VI-VI in FIG. 5 . FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device taken along line VII-VII of FIG. 5 . FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the operating device taken along line VIII-VIII of FIG. 6 . FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a holder of the switching unit of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 10 is another perspective view of the holder of the switching unit of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 12 is another perspective view of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a switch base of the switching unit of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 14 is a side view of the switching unit of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 15 is another side view of the switching unit of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the operating device shown in FIG. 3 . FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a human-driven vehicle including the operating device shown in FIG. 1 . Figure 18 is a perspective view of an improved operating device.

10: Operating device

12: Base structure

14:Installation structure

16:Installation base

18:Adjust components

32:Switch base

32A: Pivot hole

34:Switch cover

34H1: First pivot hole

36: Pivot pin

38: snap ring

40: switch

41: Installation depression

42: Fixtures

42A: External thread

42B:Head

48: Fixture opening

52: Washer

59:cable

62:Restriction structure

64: Bias component

66:Retainer

68:dent

106:Connection port

A1:Pivot

CA1: cover pivot

D31: first direction

D32: Second direction

D33: Second direction

SW2: switching unit

U1: User input

Claims (16)

A switching unit for a human-driven vehicle, the switching unit includes: a switch base; a switch cover configured to be mounted to the switch base to define an interior space between the switch base and the switch cover; a switch configured to be activated in response to a user input, the switch configured to operate in a first direction, the switch mounted to the switch base, the switch disposed in the interior space; and A restriction structure is provided separately from the switch cover and the switch. The restriction structure is at least partially provided between the switch cover and the switch base to restrict the switch relative to the switch base along the first direction and a At least one of the second directions moves, and the second direction is different from the first direction. The switching unit of claim 1, wherein the restriction structure includes a biasing component at least partially disposed between the switch cover and the switch to bias the switch toward the switch base. . The switching unit of claim 1, wherein the limiting structure includes a retaining member installed to the switch base to retain the switch relative to the switch base. The switching unit of claim 3, wherein the retaining member is detachably mounted to the switch base to hold the switch relative to the switch base. The switching unit of claim 3, wherein the restriction structure includes a biasing component configured to bias the retainer and the switch toward the switch base. The switching unit of claim 5, wherein the retaining member is at least partially disposed between the bias component and the switch. The switching unit of claim 1, wherein the limiting structure includes a recess and a protrusion, the protrusion is configured to be disposed in the recess; the recess is disposed to one of the switch and the switch base; and the protrusion Set to that switch and the other one in the base of the switch. The switching unit of claim 7, wherein: the switch includes a mounting surface; the switch base has a receiving surface that can be in contact with the mounting surface when the switch is placed in the internal space. contactable; the recess is provided to one of the mounting surface and the receiving surface; and the protrusion is provided to the other of the mounting surface and the receiving surface. A switching unit for a human-driven vehicle, the switching unit includes: a switch base; a switch cover configured to be mounted to the switch base to define an interior space between the switch base and the switch cover; and a switch configured to be activated in response to a user input, the switch being mounted to the switch base, the switch being disposed in the interior space; The switch base includes a first opening connected with the internal space to allow a foreign matter to be discharged from the internal space. The switching unit of claim 9, wherein the switch base and the switch cover define a second opening, and the second opening is connected to the internal space to allow the foreign matter to enter the internal space. The switching unit of claim 10, wherein: the first opening has a first area; the second opening has a second area; and the first area is different from the second area. The switching unit as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the first area is larger than the second area. The switching unit of claim 10, wherein the internal space includes a channel extending between the first opening and the second opening to allow the foreign matter to flow from the second opening to the first opening. The switching unit as claimed in claim 9, wherein: the switch base includes a first end and a second end, and extends between the first end and the second end; and the first opening is set wider than The switch is closer to the first end. The switching unit of claim 9, wherein: the switch is configured to operate in a first direction; and the first opening is at least partially offset from the switch when viewed from the first direction. An operating device for a human-driven vehicle, the operating device includes: a base structure; and A switching unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15; The switching unit is pivotally coupled to the base structure about a pivot axis.