TWI860344B - Electronic cable puller - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic cable puller for a bicycle includes a housing, a drive supported by the housing, and an adjuster connected to the housing. The drive is powerable by a power source and is configured to pull the shift cable into or allow the shift cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller. The adjuster is configured to adjust a length of the shift cable relative to a sheath.

Description

Electronic Cable Puller

Invention Field

The present invention generally relates to an electronic cable puller for a bicycle.

Invention Background

Conventional bicycles can shift between gears by moving the rear shifter via a shift cable. For example, a shift control attached to the handlebars of the bicycle can be actuated by a rider. The shift control can be connected to the gear shifter via a shift cable. The shift control pushes or pulls the shift cable and causes the gear shifter to change gears.

Summary of the invention

In one example, an electronic cable puller for a bicycle includes: a housing; a drive member supported by the housing and powered by a power source; and an adjuster connected to the housing. The drive member is configured to pull a shift cable into the electronic cable puller or allow the shift cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller. The adjuster is configured to adjust a length of the shift cable relative to a sheath.

In one example, the device includes a motor and a gear box connected to the motor.

In one example, the drive member further includes a forward element connected to the gear box. The motor is configured to rotate the forward element via the gear box.

In one example, the electronic cable puller further includes a shift cable and a bracket disposed on the advancing element. The bracket is connected to the shift cable. The motor is configured to translate the bracket relative to the housing via the rotation of the advancing element so that the shift cable is pulled into the housing or allowed to be pulled out of the housing based on a direction of the translation.

In one example, the housing includes: a base; a first cover attached to the base; and a second cover removably attached to the base. The base and the first cover define a first end of the electronic cable puller. The first end of the electronic cable puller is opposite to a second end of the cable puller. The second cover is adjacent to or proximate to the first cover.

In one example, the adjuster is a cylindrical adjuster connected to the housing at the second end of the electronic cable puller, the sheath surrounds a portion of the shift cable, and the adjuster is configured to modify a length of the sheath outside the electronic cable puller.

In one example, the base and the first cover at least partially define a first chamber, and the base and the second cover at least partially define a second chamber. The first chamber is sealed. The motor and the gear box are disposed in the sealed first chamber. The bracket is disposed in the second chamber. The advancing element extends between the sealed first chamber and the second chamber.

In one example, the bracket includes a body and a wing extending away from the body of the bracket. An outer contour of the wing corresponds to a channel at an inner surface of the shell.

In one example, the shift cable is connected to the bracket offset relative to a rotational axis of the advancing element.

In one example, the electronic cable puller further includes a controller supported by the housing. The controller communicates with the power source and the motor. The controller is configured to control the motor.

In one example, the electronic cable puller further includes one or more sensors in communication with the controller. The one or more sensors are configured to determine a position of the bracket. The controller is configured to control the motor based on the determined position of the bracket.

In one example, the one or more sensors include a Hall effect sensor configured to determine a rotational position of the motor.

In one example, the power source is external to the electronic cable puller.

In one example, an electronic cable puller for a bicycle includes: a housing; a drive member supported by the housing; and a shift cable connected to the drive member and connectable to a shifter of the bicycle. The housing includes a base, a first cover, and a second cover removably attached to the base. The base and the first cover at least partially define a first chamber. The first chamber is sealed. The second cover is adjacent to or proximate to the first cover. The base and the second cover at least partially define a second chamber. The drive member is at least partially disposed within the first chamber. The drive is configured to pull the shift cable into the electronic cable puller or to allow the shift cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller so that a length of the shift cable is outside the electronic cable puller.

In one example, the drive member further includes: a motor, a gear box connected to the motor, and a forward element connected to the gear box. The motor is configured to rotate the forward element via the gear box. The electronic cable puller further includes an internal threaded component disposed on the forward element. The shift cable is connected to the internal threaded component. The motor is configured to translate the internal threaded component relative to the housing through the rotation of the forward element, so that the shift cable is pulled into the housing or allowed to be pulled out of the housing based on a direction of the translation.

In one example, the housing includes an end plate attached to the second cover and the base. The motor and the gear box are disposed in the sealed first chamber. The internal threaded member is disposed in the second chamber. The advancing element extends between the sealed first chamber and the second chamber.

In one example, the electronic cable puller further includes a seal supported by the housing and at least partially disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber. The seal is configured to seal the first chamber from the second chamber. The advancing element extends from the first chamber through the seal to the second chamber.

In one example, the electronic cable puller further includes a circumferential seal at least partially disposed between the first cover and the base; and a potting seal disposed at an entry point for an electrical wire into the housing.

In one example, a drive system includes: a shifter; a cable; and an electronic cable puller connected to the shifter via the cable. The electronic cable puller includes: a housing; a drive member supported by the housing and connected to the cable; and an adjuster connected to the housing. The drive member is configured to pull the cable into the electronic cable puller or allow the cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller. The adjuster is configured to adjust a length of the shift cable relative to a jacket.

In one example, the electronic cable puller further includes an electric wire disposed at a first end of the housing. The electric wire communicates with the drive. The adjuster is connected to the housing at a second end of the housing. The second end of the housing is opposite to the first end of the housing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The gears on a bicycle may be selected by a manual shifting control, such as a handlebar-mounted shift lever. The manual control depends on the user to properly select and change gears. This may result in a suboptimal gear being selected or a gear being selected incorrectly. For example, a user may select a gear that is too high or too low for a given terrain that the bicycle is traversing, or may remain in the current gear regardless of changes in terrain. A user may inadvertently or accidentally select a different gear while riding. Mechanical shifting may require full travel of the manual control (e.g., shift lever), and less than full travel may result in incomplete shifts. Further, the user must provide effort to shift gears with the manual control. The manual shift control may require a long length of shift cable extending from the handlebars to the rear derailleur. This length of cable can easily get caught or entangled with other parts of the bicycle, get cut or torn when in use.

An electronic cable puller may provide a solution to one or more of the problems described above. The electronic cable puller may be connected to the gear variator and pull the shift cable to select a gear based on input from the shift controller. Because the shift cable may terminate at the electronic cable puller, the shift control may be mounted anywhere on the bicycle regardless of the physical wiring of the shift cable. For example, the shift control may be mounted in an ergonomic location that is not possible with a manual shift control. The shorter length of shift cable between the gear variator and the cable puller may be less susceptible to snagging, tearing, or cutting. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic cable puller can change gears more quickly and/or with greater accuracy than a manual mechanical shift control. For example, a controller can sense a change in terrain and send a signal to the electronic cable puller to change gears without user input.

Previous designs of electronic cable pullers are self-powered, often relying on batteries. Such batteries may have a limited charge and require replacement or recharging after the electronic cable puller becomes inoperable over a certain period of use. Additionally, previous designs may use proprietary shift controls and lack compatibility with different shift controls and bicycle designs. And additionally, previous cable pullers may be difficult to install and maintain because such cable pullers lack adjustment for the shift cable or a shield for the shift cable. Furthermore, installation and maintenance of previous electronic cable pullers may require a user to remove a cover for the entire cable pulling mechanism, thereby increasing the risk of water and debris intrusion. When a user incorrectly replaces the cover, the seal of the cover may be compromised, increasing the risk of damage to the cable pulling mechanism.

The present invention provides an example of an electronic cable puller that can be powered by a centralized battery of an electric power-assisted bicycle ("motorcycle") and that can be not internally powered. The centralized battery of the motorcycle can be recharged during use, providing the electronic cable puller to be operable at all times while the motorcycle is in use. In some cases, the motorcycle may include one or more sensors or controllers. The electronic cable puller may receive signals from the one or more sensors or controllers to trigger the electronic cable puller to change gears. For example, the motorcycle may sense changes in terrain or user power to send a signal to the electronic cable puller to change gears without user input.

In addition, the electronic cable puller disclosed herein may include two covers attached to a common base of a housing. The common housing combined with the two covers can reduce the overall part count of the electronic cable puller disclosed herein. The setup and maintenance of the electronic cable puller disclosed herein may require the removal of one of the covers, and only certain components of the electronic cable puller may be disposed thereunder. For example, setup and maintenance may require the removal of one cover of the electronic cable puller to shield internal components that are not sensitive to dust or water that may be disposed therein. Another cover of the housing may protect water-sensitive components (e.g., control circuits or drives) and may not need to be removed during setup and maintenance.

In addition, the electronic cable puller disclosed herein may include an adjustment portion. The adjustment portion may include a manual adjuster for the shift cable. The manual adjuster may be disposed on an outer surface of the housing and allows the electronic cable puller to be conveniently adjusted without disassembly.

Referring to the drawings below, FIG. 1 generally shows an example of a bicycle 100 on which the disclosed electronic cable puller 124 may be implemented. In this example, the bicycle 100 may be a mountain bike. In some cases, the bicycle 100 may be a motorcycle. The bicycle 100 has a frame 102, a handlebar 104 near the front end of the frame 102, and a seat or saddle 106 for supporting a rider above the top of the frame 102. The bicycle 100 also has a first wheel or front wheel 108 carried by a front fork 110 of the frame 102 and supporting the front end of the frame 102. The bicycle 100 also has a second wheel or rear wheel 112 supporting a rear end of the frame 102. The rear end of the frame 102 may be connected to a rear suspension assembly 114. The bicycle 100 also has a transmission system 116 having a crank assembly 118, which is operably coupled to a rear cassette 122 near a rotating axis of the rear wheel 112 via a chain 120. An electronic cable puller 124 can be mounted on the frame of the bicycle 100. The electronic cable puller 124 can be coupled to a rear derailleur 132 via a shift cable 126 to shift gears on the rear cassette 122. In some cases, the shift cable 126 can be a Bowden cable. In this example, the electronic cable puller 124 can be connected to a controller 128 of the bicycle via a lead or wire 130. In some cases, the controller 128 may include a power source and provide power to the electronic cable puller 124 via the wire 130. In another example, the electronic cable puller 124 may communicate with the controller 128 wirelessly.

Although the bicycle 100 shown in FIG. 1 is a mountain bike, the electronic cable puller 124, including the specific embodiments and examples disclosed herein and the alternative embodiments and examples, can be implemented on other types of bicycles. For example, the disclosed electronic cable puller 124 can be used on road bicycles, and bicycles with mechanical (e.g., cable, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) and non-mechanical (e.g., wired, wireless) drive systems.

2a and 2b, which show more details of the electronic cable puller 124. The electronic cable puller 124 includes a wire 130 extending through one end (e.g., a first end) of the electronic cable puller 124, and a shift cable 126 extending through the other end (e.g., a second end) of the electronic cable puller 124. One end of the wire 130 may terminate in a connector 236. A portion of the shift cable 126 is surrounded by the sheath 218.

The electronic cable puller 124 has a housing 200 that includes a base 202, a first cover 204, a second cover 206, and an end plate 208. The first cover 204 is attached to the base 202 in a number of ways, including, for example, with one or more connectors (e.g., screws), adhesives, or combinations thereof. The first cover 204 and/or the base 202 at least partially define a first end 210 of the electronic cable puller 124 and a first chamber (see FIG. 2c ) within the electronic cable puller 124. The first cover 204 can be attached to the base 202 in a manner that makes the first chamber (e.g., a first portion) difficult for a user of the electronic cable puller 124 to access. The first chamber of the electronic cable puller 124 can also be waterproof because the electronic components of the electronic cable puller 124 can be disposed in the first chamber. For example, a waterproof seal can be disposed between the first cover 204 and the base 202 of the housing 200. The seal can be a circumferential seal between the first cover 204 and the base 202. The waterproofness can prevent water or other liquids from invading through the first cover 204, for example, to protect the electronic components (e.g., control electronics, motors, and Hall effect sensors).

The second cover 206 is attached to the base 202 in a number of ways, including, for example, with one or more connectors (e.g., screws 212, bolts, or other tooled or non-tooled fasteners that enter screw holes in the base 202). The second cover 206 and the base 202 at least partially define a second chamber within the electronic cable puller 124 (see FIG. 2c). The second cover 206 is removably attached to the base 202 so that the user can access the second chamber for installing and replacing components (e.g., the shift cable 126, an advance element, and a bracket) within the second chamber of the electronic cable puller 124 and/or for adjusting one or more components within the second chamber of the electronic cable puller 124. The second cover 206 can be waterproof so that the attachment of the second cover 206 to the base 202, in combination with the end plate 208, prevents dust from entering the second chamber. In one example, a dust seal is disposed between the second cover 206 and the base 202 of the housing 200. The dust seal prevents the intrusion of dust and debris into the second chamber of the electronic cable puller 124. In some cases, the second chamber is free of electronic components, and therefore, the attachment of the second cover 206 to the base 202 may require less extensive sealing against water ingress than the attachment of the first cover 204 to the base 202.

The end plate 208 is attached to the base 202 and/or the second cover 206 in a number of ways. The end plate 208 can be removably attached to the base 202 with one or more connectors. For example, one or more screws, bolts, or other tooled or non-tooled fasteners can secure the end plate 208 with holes in the base 202. In one example, the end plate 208 is adjacent to or adjacent to the second cover 206, but is not attached to the second cover 206, such as by one or more connectors. One or more intervening portions, such as a seal, can be disposed between the end plate 208 and the second cover 206. The end plate 208 at least partially defines the second end 214 of the electronic cable puller 124. An end plate 208 is removably attached to the base plate 202 to allow one or more components (eg, the lead screw and bracket) to be installed within the second chamber of the electronic cable puller 124.

The electronic cable puller 124 also includes an adjuster 216 at or adjacent to the second end 214 of the electronic cable puller 124. The adjuster 216 can adjust the length of the path that the shift cable 126 traverses to, for example, the rear derailleur 132. The length of the path that the shift cable traverses can be changed by adjusting the length of a sheath 218 on the exterior of the electronic cable puller 124. The sheath 218 surrounds a portion of the shift cable 126. One end of the sheath 218 is positioned within a recess of the adjuster 216. For example, one end of the sheath 218 can be adjacent to a protrusion within the recess of the adjuster 216. The adjuster 216 has an opening through which the shift cable 126 extends into the second chamber. In one example, the adjuster 216 is a drum adjuster. For example, the adjuster 216 can be rotated to increase or decrease a distance between the sheath 218 and the electronic cable puller 124. Because the shift cable 126 is, for example, flexible, increasing the distance between the sheath 218 and the electronic cable puller 124 can extend the path of the shift cable 126 to the rear derailleur 132 and thus adjust the position of the rear derailleur 132 relative to the rear cassette 122.

In some cases, the end plate 208 can support the adjuster 216. For example, the adjuster 216 has external or internal threads, and the end plate 208 can have a threaded portion in or on which the adjuster 216 is rotatably attached. The end plate 208 also includes an opening through which the core of the shift cable 126 extends into the second chamber. The end plate 208 can also support one end of a lead screw (see Figures 2c and 2d).

3, the adjuster 216 is shown having a core member 300, an attachment element 302, and a support element 304. The core member 300 can be disposed within a housing 306 of the adjuster 216. The core member 300 can extend beyond the housing 306 and into an end plate 208 of the cable puller 124. In some cases, the core member 300 can extend at least partially into the housing 200 of the cable puller 124. The core member 300 can be secured to the end plate by the attachment element 302. The cable 126 can extend through the core member 300.

The attachment element 302 may include threads. The threads may correspond to a surface of the end plate 208. Rotation of the adjuster 216 may cause the attachment element 302 to rotate. The attachment element 302 may translate and rotate. For example, rotation of the attachment element 302 may cause the attachment element 302 to translate as the threads on the attachment element 302 act against the clamping plate 208.

The support member 304 may be disposed on the core member 300 opposite the attachment member 302. The support member 304 may include a surface against which a sheath 218 of the shift cable 126 may rest. The sheath 218 may be supported on one end by the rear derailleur 132 and on the other end by the support member 304. Rotation of the adjuster 216 may increase or decrease a distance between the end of the sheath 218 supported by the support member 304 and the end plate 208 of the cable puller 126.

The housing 306 of the adjuster 216 can be accessible to the user. The housing can have a circular, square, or other outer profile. For example, the housing 306 can have a substantially circular outer profile like a cylindrical adjuster. The housing 306 can have a surface treatment. For example, the housing 306 can have ridges or knurling. The surface treatment can increase the grip on the adjuster 216. Rotation of the housing 306 can cause one or more elements of the adjuster 216 to rotate. For example, the core member 300, the attachment member 302, and the support element 304 can rotate with the housing 306.

2a and 2b, one or more attachment protrusions 220 may extend from the housing 200. For example, four attachment protrusions 220 extend away from the housing 200, and two attachment protrusions 220 extend away from opposite sides of the base 202. More or fewer attachment protrusions 220 may extend away from the housing 200. The attachment protrusions 220 may be positioned at any location on an outer surface of the housing 200. The attachment protrusions 220 may allow the electronic cable puller 124 to be mounted on a bicycle (e.g., the bicycle 100 of FIG. 1). Referring to FIG. 2b, the shapes of the attachment protrusions 220 may be configured to receive portions of mounting elements 222 (e.g., elastic bands), respectively. For example, the attachment protrusion 220 may be hook-shaped. The attachment protrusions 220 may be the same or different shapes. The mounting elements 222 may, for example, extend around a mounting portion of a bicycle and be held in place or fixed by the attachment protrusions 220 on opposite sides of the base 202, respectively, so that the electronic cable puller 124 is fixed to the mounting portion of the bicycle. The mounting portion of the bicycle may be a part of the frame 102 of the bicycle 100. One or more mounting elements 222 may be used to fix the electronic cable puller 124 to the bicycle. The number of mounting elements 222 used may be determined by the number of pairs of attachment protrusions 220 extending away from the housing 200.

The mounting elements 222 allow the electronic cable puller 124 to be secured to any number of different components of the bicycle 100, including, for example, the chainstays, seatstays, down tube, and seat tube. In this manner, the electronic cable puller 124 may not be dependent on a particular geometry of the bicycle 100, which may be highly variable depending on style, application, and size, but may also be part of a standardized mounting geometry that may be implemented across most bicycle manufacturers (e.g., including most motorcycle motors and batteries). Additionally or alternatively, the electronic cable puller 124 may be secured to a motorcycle controller 128.

The mounting elements 222 may be elastic to provide tension when stretched. For example, the mounting elements 222 may be made of natural or synthetic rubber or another material having elastic properties. The mounting elements 222 may be removably attached to the attachment protrusions 220, respectively. For example, before the electronic cable puller 124 is mounted on the bicycle 100, the mounting elements 222 may be separated from the attachment protrusions. When the electronic cable puller 124 is located or placed on the bicycle 100, the mounting elements 222 may be routed around the bicycle 100 so that a portion of the bicycle 100 extends in a space between the housing 200 of the electronic cable puller 124 and the mounting elements 222. The mounting elements 222 may be engaged to the attachment protrusions 220 to secure the electronic cable puller 124 to the bicycle 100. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting elements 222 may be engaged with attachment protrusions 220 located on the bicycle 100 to secure the electronic cable puller 124 to the bicycle 100.

FIG. 2c and FIG. 2d show an electronic cable puller for a bicycle (such as the bicycle of FIG. 1 ) with a portion of the housing 200 (e.g., the first cover 204 and the second cover 206) removed. The electronic cable puller 124 may include a motor 224 connected to a gear box 226 to drive the movement of a bracket 230. In some cases, the motor 224 and the gear box 226 drive the bracket 230 by rotating a forward element 228. The forward element 228 may be a threaded rod. The bracket 230 may be a nut such as a lead nut. The motor 224 may be controlled by a control circuit 232 (see FIG. 9a and FIG. 9b) disposed on the substrate 901.

In one embodiment, the assembly of the motor 224, gear box 226, advance element 228, bracket 230, and control circuit 232 within the electronic cable puller 124 can be organized linearly. For example, starting from the first end 210 of the electronic cable puller 124, the wire 130 extends through the first end 210 of the electronic cable puller 124 and connects to the control circuit 232 (e.g., including a printed circuit board (PCB) and one or more processors). The control circuit 232 is electrically connected (e.g., using wires or wirelessly) to the motor 224 connected to the gear box 226. The control circuit 232 can be arranged perpendicular to a main axis of the electronic cable puller 124 defined by the motor 224, the gear box 226, the advance element 228 and the bracket 230 or any combination thereof. The gear box 226 drives the rotation of the advance element 228, which translates the bracket 230. The shift cable 126 is connected to the bracket 230 and extends through the adjuster 216 and exits the second end 214 of the electronic cable puller 124. In some cases, the sheath 218 surrounding the shift cable 126 can terminate at the adjuster 216. The control circuit 232, the motor 224 and the gear box 226 are positioned within a first chamber defined by the housing 200, and the bracket 230 is positioned within a second chamber defined by the housing 200. The advancing element 228 extends between the first chamber and the second chamber. Other arrangements and/or positioning may be provided.

The motor 224 can be an electric device. For example, the motor 224 can be an electric motor. The motor includes one or more output shafts (e.g., two output shafts). Referring to FIGS. 4a to 4c and 5, a first output shaft 400 of the motor 224 can drive a gear box 226. In some cases, a drive gear 416 disposed on the output shaft 400 can drive the gear box 226. A second output shaft 402 of the motor 224 can protrude from a side of the motor 224 opposite to the first output shaft 400. The second output shaft 402 can be connected to a rotational position sensor 404. The rotary position sensor 404 may include one or more feedback magnets. The second output shaft 402 may be coupled to the first output shaft 400 such that the feedback magnet of the rotary position sensor 404 rotates with the rotation of the first output shaft 400. The feedback magnet 404 may be used by the control circuit 232 to determine a position or other information about the motor 224 or other components of the electronic cable puller 124. In some cases, the motor 224 may be located in a portion of the housing 200 that is waterproof or otherwise sealed against the ingress of water or other liquids (e.g., a first sealed chamber of the housing 200).

Referring to Fig. 2c and Fig. 2d, the gearbox 226 can be driven by the motor 224. For example, the rotation of the first output shaft 400 of the motor 224 can drive the gearbox 226. In some cases, the gearbox 226 can be a hybrid two-stage spur gear and planetary gearbox. For example, the first stage of the two-stage gearbox 226 can be a spur gear, and the second stage of the two-stage gearbox 226 can be a planetary gear. An output of the gearbox 226 can be a low backlash interface. In some cases, the gearbox 226 can be located in a portion of the housing 200 that is waterproof.

In some cases, all or part of the motor 224 and the gearbox 226 may be combined in a common motor-gearbox assembly. In such cases, a motor block may provide support for one or more components of the motor 224 and the gearbox 226. The motor block may, for example, form a housing for the first section of the gearbox 226. A ring gear may, for example, form a housing for the second section. The gearbox 226 and/or the common motor-gearbox assembly, including the motor block, may be located in a waterproof chamber of the housing 200 (e.g., a first sealed chamber of the housing 200).

4a-4c and 5, the gearbox 226 may include a ring gear housing 406. The motor 224 and the gearbox 226 may be supported by a common motor block 408. A first spur gear segment 410 and a second planetary gear segment 412 of the gearbox 226 may be below the ring gear housing 406. The gearbox 226 may drive an output interface 414. The ring gear housing 406 may be mounted to the common motor block 408. The ring gear housing 406 may enclose the second planetary gear segment 412 of the gearbox 226.

The spur gear section 410 may include a spur gear 418. The spur gear 418 may drive one or more planetary gears 420 of the planetary gear section 412 of the gear box 226. The spur gear 418 may be disposed on a support member 422. The support member 422 may be supported on one end by the motor block 408. In some cases, a cover 424 may be placed over the spur gear and/or the support member 422.

The planet gear segment 412 may include one or more planet gears 420. The planet gears 420 may be supported by the output interface 414. For example, the output interface may have one or more spindles 426 that support the planet gears 420. The planet gear segment 412 may include a cover 428 having a recess 430 and may be disposed opposite the backlash interface 414. The cover 428 may hold the planet gears 420 on the spindles 426. The planet gears 420 may drive the output interface 414.

The common motor block 408 can support both the motor 224 and the gear box 226. Additionally or alternatively, the motor block 408 can support the ring gear housing 406. For example, fasteners 432 can secure the ring gear housing 406 to the motor block 408 via mounting holes 434. In some cases, the motor 224 and the gear box 226 can be mounted in the common motor block 408 to form an assembly. The assembly can then be mounted in the housing 200 of the electronic cable puller 124. The motor block 408 can be secured to the housing 200 by one or more fasteners. For example, the fasteners may secure the motor block 408 to the housing 200 via the mounting holes 436.

The ring gear housing 406 may have a toothed inner surface 438. The profile of the toothed inner surface 438 may correspond to the outer profile of one or more of the planet gears 420 of the planet gear segment 412 of the gear box 226.

The output interface 414 can be a low backlash output interface for driving the advance element 228. In some cases, the output interface 414 can support one or more planetary gears 420 of the planetary gear segment 412 of the gear box 226. For example, the output interface 414 can act as a carrier to support the planetary gears 420 on the spindle 426, which extends from the output interface 414. The output interface 414 can be shaped to correspond to the shape of the advance element 228. In some cases, the output interface 414 extends within a portion of the housing 200 having the motor 224 and the gear box 226. For example, the output interface 414 can extend within a waterproof or sealed portion of the housing 200 (e.g., a first sealed chamber of the housing 200). In other cases, the output interface 414 can extend into a second portion of the housing 200 (e.g., a second chamber of the housing 200). For example, the output interface 414 can extend from a sealed portion of the housing 200 to a user-accessible portion of the housing 200.

Referring to Figures 2c and 2d, the forward element 228 can be rotated by the output of the gear box 226 (e.g., the output interface 414). The forward element 228 can be a lead screw having threads on an outer surface of the lead screw. The forward element 228 can be supported on one or more ends by the housing 200. The forward element 228 supports the bracket 230. At least a portion of the forward element 228 is located in a user accessible portion of the housing 200. In the case where the gear box is located in a waterproof portion of the housing 200, a portion of the forward element 228 can extend from the waterproof portion of the housing 200 to another portion of the housing 200. The forward element 228 can pass through a rotating seal. In other cases, a portion of the gearbox 226 may extend away from the waterproof portion of the housing 200 and drive the advance element 228. The advance element 228 may be connected to the gearbox 226 with a low backlash interface.

In one embodiment, a bracket 230 may be disposed on the forward element 228. The bracket 230 has an opening (e.g., a first opening) through which the forward element 228 extends. The opening may have threads, for example, on an inner surface. The threads may match threads, for example, on an outer surface of the forward element 228. Rotation of the forward element 228 causes the bracket 230 to translate along a length of the forward element 28 and, therefore, along a length of the housing 200. The bracket 230 may have a second opening for retaining one end of the shift cable 126. The shift cable 126 may extend through the second opening. A fixing bolt on one end of the shift cable 126 may secure the shift cable to the bracket 230. The bracket 230 and the forward element 228 together may form a non-reversible drive pair. For example, the forces applied by the shift cable 126 will not significantly move the bracket 230 in combination with the advancement element 228.

In some cases, the bracket 230 may have one or more wings extending from a body of the bracket 230. Referring to FIGS. 6a-6c and 7a-7b, the bracket 230 may include, for example, two wings 600 extending away from opposite sides of a body 602 of the bracket 230. The bracket 230 may include more or fewer wings 600 extending away from the body 602 of the bracket 230. The wings 600 may fit into corresponding channels 604 in the housing 200 that extend substantially parallel to the extent of the advance element 228. In some cases, the shift cable 126 and the advance element 228 may not be co-linear. As the bracket 230 translates along the advance element 228 and pulls the cable 126b, a distance between the advance element 228 and the cable 126b can cause a rotational force or torque to act on the bracket 230. The wings 600 can limit the amount of possible rotation of the bracket 230 and keep the bracket 230 aligned with respect to the advance element 228. Excessive rotation can cause the electronic cable puller 124 to bind or cause excessive wear on components such as the advance element 228, the bracket 230, and the shift cable 126.

The second opening 608 may extend partially or completely through a body of the bracket 230. In one example, the second opening 608 extends partially or completely through one of the tabs 600. The shift cable 126 may be fed through the second opening 608. For example, the shift cable 126 without the sheath 218 may be fed through the second opening 608. A retaining bolt 610 may be mounted on one end of the shift cable 126. The retaining bolt 610 may prevent the shift cable 126b from being pulled back through the second opening 608 and the bracket 230. In one example, the second opening 608 includes different portions of different diameters, resulting in a flange on which the retaining bolt 610 may be positioned. In this example, the retaining bolt 610 may be attached to the bracket 230 with a friction fit. In one example, the fixing bolt 610 can move (eg, rotate) within the second opening 608 (eg, on the flange).

The first opening 606 can extend partially or completely through the body 602 of the bracket 230. In one example, the first opening 606 extends through the center of the body 602 of the bracket 230. The bracket 230 can ride on the advancement element 228, and the advancement element 228 extends through the opening 606. The surface of the first opening 606 can have threads. For example, the threads of the first opening 606 can correspond to threads on a surface of the advancement element 228. Rotation of the advancement element 228 causes the bracket 230 to translate along a length of the advancement element 228. In some cases, a surface that at least partially forms the second opening 608 is parallel to a rotational axis of the bracket 230 that passes through the center of the bracket 230. A centerline of the second opening 608 may be offset from the rotation axis of the bracket 230 in a direction away from the wing 600 (eg, directly above or directly below the rotation axis of the bracket 230 ).

The one or more wings 600 may extend away from the body 602 of the bracket 230. The wings may extend for a portion or all of the length of the bracket 230. In the case where the advance element 228 and the shift cable 126 are non-coaxial, the bracket 230 may rotate along an axis perpendicular to the advance element 228 or the shift cable 126. In the case where there is friction between the second opening 608 and the advance element 228, the bracket 230 may rotate along an axis substantially parallel to the advance element 228 or the shift cable 126. The positioning of the wings 600 within the channel 604 prevents the bracket 230 from rotating as the bracket 230 traverses along the advance element 228.

Referring to FIGS. 7a and 7b , the wings 600 of the bracket 230 ride in channels 604 (shown with attachment protrusions 220 and mounting holes 614) on one of the interiors of the housing 200. The channels 604 may be recesses or slots formed into the interior portion of the housing 200. The number of channels 604 may correspond to the number of wings 600 extending away from the body 602 of the bracket 230. The channels 604 may have a profile corresponding to the profile of the wings 600, wherein the size and/or shape of each of the channels 604 may correspond to the size and/or shape of the wing 600 positioned within the respective channels 604. For example, the wings 600 may fit inside the channels 604 with a small gap 612 between the wings 600 and the channels 604. A profile of the wings 600 may be shaped to match a profile of the channels 604 to minimize the size of the gaps 612. The wings 600 may ride in the channels 604 to resist rotation caused by a load imposed on the bracket 230 by the shift cable 126 and the advance element 228. The channels 604 may extend along all or part of the length of the housing 200. For example, one or more channels 604 may extend along the length of a user accessible or dustproof portion of the housing (e.g., within the second chamber of the housing 200). In some cases, the channels 604 may extend into the end plate 208.

The attachment protrusions 220 may include a supporting portion 616 and a retaining portion 618. The supporting portion 616 may support one or more mounting elements 222 when the mounting elements 222 are placed on the attachment protrusions 220. The retaining portion 618 may prevent the mounting elements 22 from sliding out of the supporting portion 616.

The mounting holes 614 can support the end plate 208. For example, the end plate 208 can be fixed to the housing 200 by one or more fasteners. The fasteners can be fitted into the mounting holes 614 to fix the end plate 208.

8 shows a side view of an example of a bracket (e.g., bracket 230) positioned on a leading element (e.g., leading element 228). The leading element 228 can be connected to a low backlash interface 800, a biasing device 802, a first bearing 804, a rotating seal 806, and a second bearing 808.

The low backlash interface 800 can couple the forward element to the gearbox 226. For example, the profile of the low backlash interface 800 can correspond to the output profile of the gearbox 226. The profile of the low backlash interface 800 can be configured to reduce or eliminate backlash between the gearboxes 226. For example, the profile of the low backlash interface 800 can be configured to closely match the profile of the gearbox 226. In some cases, the low backlash interface 800 can extend to a sealed or waterproof portion of the housing 200 where the gearbox 226 is located (e.g., a first chamber of the housing 200).

The biasing device 802 can act against an inner surface of the housing 200. In some cases, the biasing device 802 can act between an inner surface of the housing 200 and the first bearing 804. In this way, the biasing device can apply a force that biases the advancing element 228 in a direction away from the gear box 226. The biasing device 802 can be a preloaded spring.

The first bearing 804 can be a radial bearing. The first bearing 804 supports the advancement element 228 and is supported by the housing 200. For example, the first bearing 804 can be supported by an inner extension of the user accessible or dustproof portion of the housing 200 (e.g., within the second chamber of the housing 200). Additionally or alternatively, the first bearing 804 can be disposed in and supported by an inner extension of the waterproof or sealed portion of the housing 200 (e.g., within the first chamber of the housing 200).

The rotating seal 806 can be disposed on the advancing element 228. The rotating seal 806 can seal one portion of the housing with another portion of the housing 200. For example, the rotating seal 806 can separate a waterproof or sealed portion of the housing 200 from a user-accessible or dust-proof portion of the housing 200 (e.g., a first sealed chamber of the housing 200 from a second chamber of the housing 200). The rotating seal 806 can be supported by a passage 236 between the waterproof or sealed chamber of the housing 200 and the user-accessible or dust-proof portion of the housing 200. In some cases, the rotating seal 806 can form all or part of a rotating seal 234 shown in FIG. 2d.

The second bearing 808 can be a radial and thrust bearing. The second bearing 808 can be supported by the housing 200. For example, the second bearing 808 can be disposed within a user accessible or dustproof portion of the housing 200 (e.g., within a second chamber of the housing 200) and supported by the inner extension of that portion of the housing 200.

2c and 2d, the shift cable 126 can be installed in the electronic cable puller 124 by removing the second cover 206. Based on instructions from, for example, the controller 128, the control circuit 232 can rotate the motor 224, the gear box 226, and the forward element 228 until the bracket 230 is translated to one end of the housing 200 (e.g., the second end 214 of the housing 200) corresponding to the outermost gear of the rear cassette 122 selected by the rear derailleur 132. If replacing an old cable, the old cable can be removed. The shift cable 126 can be fed through the drum adjuster 216 and the end plate 208 into the interior of the housing 200 (e.g., the interior of the second chamber of the housing 200). The shift cable 126 can be tensioned by feeding through the bracket 230. The fixing bolt 610 can be tightened to secure the shift cable 126 to the bracket 230. The adjuster 216 can be rotated to change the tension in the shift cable 126 so that one of the top pulleys of the rear derailleur 132 is aligned with the outermost gear of the rear cassette 122.

2c and 2d, the control circuit 232 can provide power to the motor 224. The control circuit 232 can be electrically connected to the wire 130. Through the wire 130, the control circuit 232 can communicate with the controller 128 of the bicycle 100. For example, the control circuit 232 and the motor 224 can receive power from the control circuit 128 or a battery of a motorcycle via the wire 130. The wire 130 can have a connector 236 on one end. The connector 236 can provide an electrical connection between the wire 130 and the control circuit 128 or a battery of a motorcycle. In some cases, the wire 130 can be sealed where the wire enters the housing 200. For example, epoxy or another sealing material can be provided around the wire 130 where the wire 130 enters the housing 200. The material can form a potted seal around the wire 130. The seal prevents water from entering the control circuit 232 from the outside of the housing 200. Additionally or alternatively, the seal can reduce the strain on the wire 130.

The electronic cable puller 124 may also include a rotating seal 234 for preventing water and/or debris from entering the control circuit 232 from the second chamber of the housing 200. The rotating seal 234 may be disposed between the gear box 226 and the advance element 228. In some cases, the rotating seal 234 may extend between the two portions of the housing 200, where the gear box 226 is located in a waterproof portion of the housing 200 (e.g., the first chamber of the housing 200) and the advance element 228 is located in a user accessible or dustproof portion of the housing 200 (e.g., the second chamber of the housing 200). The rotating seal 234 may have one of the passages 236 through which the advance element 228 or the gear box 226 may extend. The passage 236 may be supported by the housing 200. The rotary seal 234 may be, for example, a stuffing box. The rotary seal 234 may include a rotary seal on the advancing element 228 or be used in conjunction therewith.

The control circuit 232 may include one or more of a communication transceiver, an input voltage detection circuit, a voltage converter, a light emitting diode, a microcontroller, a motor controller, a Hall effect sensor, or any combination thereof. For example, the control circuit 232 may include two Hall effect sensors arranged to form an orthogonal encoder. The Hall effect sensors may be configured to correspond to the position sensor 404 of the motor 224. The communication transceiver may translate data received via the wire into data compatible with the microcontroller. For example, the communication transceiver may translate controller area network (CAN) data into serial data. The voltage converter can support one or more input voltages (or a range of input voltages) from line 130 and generate an output voltage to power one or more of the components of control circuit 232. The output voltage can be lower than the input voltage. The LED can be configured to provide user feedback and report operating errors.

The microcontroller may include one or more processors, memory, programmable inputs and outputs, timers, clocks, serial ports, analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, pulse width modulation blocks, and interrupt controllers. The microcontroller may execute program instructions to control the motor 224. The motor controller may support one or more input voltages (or a range of input voltages) and be configured to power the motor 224. For example, the microcontroller may control the motor controller to operate the motor 224. In some cases, the control circuit 232 may receive data on the line 130. The communication transceiver may be configured to translate the received data into a format, language, or configuration suitable for the operation of the control circuit 232. For example, the control circuit 232 may receive a command from the electronic cable puller 124 to switch, calibrate, or perform another operation. The controller 128, a switch control, or another device may generate data or commands.

Fig. 9a and Fig. 9b show the three-dimensional diagram of the example of the control circuit 232 of the electronic cable puller 124. The control circuit 232 may include a substrate 901 and one or more processors 903, antenna 905, Hall effect sensor 907, communication transceiver, input voltage detection circuit, voltage converter, light-emitting diode, microcontroller, and motor controller. The Hall effect sensor 907 may be arranged to be separated from each other. The control circuit 232 may be arranged on a substrate 901. The substrate 901 may be a printed circuit board. Various components of the control circuit system 232 may be mounted on the substrate 901. For example, the processor 903, antenna 905 and one or more Hall effect sensors 907 may be mounted on the substrate 901. Additionally or alternatively, the control circuit 232 may include one or more attachment features 909. The attachment features 909 may be holes through the substrate 901. The attachment features 909 may attach the control circuit 232 to the housing of the electronic cable puller 124.

Figures 10a to 10c show side views of an example of an electronic cable puller (e.g., electronic cable puller 124) with a bracket (e.g., bracket 230) in different positions. Figure 10a shows the bracket 230 in an extended position, Figure 10b shows the bracket 230 in a neutral position, and Figure 10c shows the bracket 230 in a retracted position within the housing 200.

The electronic cable puller 124 may have a communication portion 1000, a mechanical portion 1002, and a cable attachment portion 1004. The communication portion 1000 may include the wire 130, the control circuit 232, and the first end of the housing 210. A portion of the base 202 of the housing 200 may extend into the communication portion 1000. The mechanical portion 1002 may include the motor 224, the advance element 228, and the bracket 230. Most of the shift cable 126 and the base 202 of the housing 200 may extend into the mechanical portion 1002. The cable attachment portion 1004 may include the end cap 208, the adjuster 216, and the second end 214 of the housing 200. Most of the shift cable 126 and the base 202 of the housing 200 can extend into the cable attachment portion 1004. A jacket 218 of the shift cable 126 can terminate in the cable attachment portion.

The rotation of the advance element 228 can cause the support 230 to translate from the extended position to the retracted position, from the retracted position to the extended position, or to or from any intermediate position between the extended position and the retracted position. The support 230 can translate through the mechanical portion 1002. In some cases, the distance between the extended position and the retracted position can be in the range of 5 mm to 120 mm. For example, the distance between the positions can be 40 mm. Other distances can be provided.

When the bracket 230 is translated in a direction toward the second end 214 of the housing 200, the shift cable 126 can be pulled out of the housing 200. For example, the rear derailleur 132 or another component can apply tension to the shift cable 126. Translation of the bracket 230 toward the second end 214 of the housing 200 can allow the rear derailleur 132 or another component to pull the shift cable 126 out of the housing 200.

The bracket 230 can pull the shift cable 126 into the housing 200 as the bracket translates in a direction away from the second end 214 of the housing 200 toward the first end 210 of the housing 200. The tension on the shift cable 126 provided by the rear derailleur 132, the boot 218, or another component can remove any slack in the shift cable 126 in the housing 200.

As the bracket 230 translates from one position to another, the extension (e.g., length) of the shift cable 126 inside the housing 200 can change, thereby changing an extension (e.g., length) of the shift cable 126 outside the housing 200. The change in the extension of the shift cable 126 outside the housing 200 can cause the rear derailleur 132 to select or change a gear on the rear cassette 122.

The control circuit 232 may rotate the motor 224 a preset amount, resulting in a predetermined translation of the bracket 230. For example, to shift the gears up or down, the control circuit 232 may rotate the motor 224 and move the bracket 230 five millimeters closer to or farther from the end plate 208. In this way, the gear shift is performed relative to the current position of the bracket 230. The absolute position of the bracket 230 within the housing 200 may not be known at all times.

In a process known as homing, the carriage 230 may be moved to the extended position or the retracted position based on a command from, for example, the controller 128. Although the gears may be switched relative to the current position of the carriage 230, identifying the currently selected gear may require knowing the position of the carriage 230 within the housing 200. Moving the carriage 230 to the extended position or the retracted position and monitoring the rotation of the motor 224 (e.g., using the feedback magnet 404) performed to move the carriage to either position may allow the current position of the carriage 230 and the currently selected gear to be determined. For example, the translation range of the bracket 230 within the housing 200, the number of gears in the rear cassette 122, the number of rotations of the motor 224 required to translate the bracket 230 from an extended position to a retracted position (or vice versa), or the number of rotations of the motor 224 necessary to perform a gear conversion, or any combination thereof may be known, while the current position of the bracket 230 may be unknown.

The carriage 230 can be reset (e.g., by rotation of the motor 224 and translation or movement of the advancement element 228) to either the extended position or the retracted position, and the number or amount of rotations of the motor 224 can be measured during reset using, for example, the feedback magnet 404 and a Hall effect sensor on the control circuit 232. For example, the number of rotations required to reset the carriage 230 divided by the number of rotations required to traverse the carriage 230 between the extended position and the retracted position can correspond to the current number of gears divided by the total number of gears. For example, when the number of rotations required to return the bracket 230 is half of the total rotation required for the bracket 230 to traverse between the extended position and the retracted position, and when the rear cassette 122 has 12 gears, the current position of the bracket 230 may correspond to gear 7 on the rear cassette 122. In another example, when the number of rotations required to return the bracket 230 to the extended position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10 a) is one-twelfth of the total rotation, and when the rear cassette 122 has 12 gears, the current position of the bracket 230 may correspond to gear 2 on the rear cassette 122. In another example, where the support 230 was already at or near the extended position or the retracted position before resetting (e.g., the motor 224 did not rotate or rotated less than the number of rotations for a single gear change) and where the rear cassette 122 has 12 gears, the current position of the support 230 may correspond to gear 1 or gear 12 on the rear cassette 122, respectively. Once the currently selected gear or current position of the support 230 is determined by resetting, the control circuit 232 may determine a new selected gear after a gear change by increasing or decreasing the determined selected gear. In another example, the position of the support 230 may be measured directly.

When the amount of rotation of the motor 224 required to return the bracket 230 to the extended position or the retracted position is recorded, the bracket 230 can then be returned to the previous position by controlling the motor 224 to rotate the same amount in the opposite direction. In some cases, the motor 224 can be rotated quickly so that the bracket 230 is reset and returned to the current position before the rear derailleur 132 can change gears. In this way, the bracket 230 can be reset without changing gears.

Reset can be performed in response to a signal from the motorcycle controller 128. For example, the motorcycle controller 128 can send a query command to the electronic cable puller 124 via the wire 130 to request that the electronic cable puller 124 return to the current gear. The control circuit 232 of the electronic cable puller can reset the bracket 230, determine the current gear of the rear transmission 132, and send a signal to the controller 128 via the wire 130 to indicate the current gear. The motorcycle controller 128 can receive the current gear and display the current gear. For example, the controller 128 can send a signal to display the current gear on the head unit or shift control 1100 of Figure 11.

FIG. 11 shows a view of a shift control 1100 for a bicycle such as the bicycle 100 of FIG. The shift control 1100 may be supported by the handlebars 104 of the bicycle 100. The shift control 1100 may include a first button 1102 and a second button 1104. A user may actuate the shift control 1100 to send a signal 1106 to the electronic cable puller 124 to change gears. For example, the user may press one of the buttons 1102, 1104 to change gears. Additionally or alternatively, the shift control 1100 may send the gear change signal 1106 to the electronic cable puller 124 without user input. For example, in response to a sensed change in terrain or direction, the shift control 1100 can automatically send a signal 1106 to the electronic cable puller 124 to change gears. In some cases, the shift control 1100 can be part of or communicate with the motorcycle's controller 128. The shift control 1100 can send a gear change signal 1106 to the motorcycle controller 128, which can send a signal to the electronic cable puller 124 via the wire 130 to change gears.

The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of the various embodiments. The illustrations are not intended to be a complete description of all elements and features of the apparatus and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. After reviewing this invention, many other embodiments may be clear to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized and may be derived from the present invention, so that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, the illustrations are representative only and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions in the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be reduced. Therefore, the present invention and the drawings are considered to be illustrative and not restrictive.

Although this specification contains many details, these details should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or what may be claimed, but rather as detailed descriptions of features of particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments individually or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, while features may function in certain combinations as described above and even as originally claimed, one or more features from a claimed combination may be deleted from that combination in some cases, and a claimed combination may refer to subcombinations or variations of subcombinations.

Similarly, although the operations and/or actions are depicted in the drawings and described herein in a particular order, it should not be understood that such operations must be performed in the particular order shown or in a sequential order, or that all illustrated operations must be performed to achieve the desired results. In certain circumstances, multiplexing and parallel processing may be advantageous. Again, the separation of different system components in the above-described embodiments should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that any of the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product, or packaged in multiple software products.

For convenience only, the term "invention" may be used herein to refer to one or more embodiments of the present invention individually and/or collectively, without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. In addition, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent configuration designed to achieve the same or similar purpose can replace the specific examples shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of the different examples. After reviewing the specification, the combination of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

The Abstract of the Invention is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the preceding detailed description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This invention is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims below, the subject matter of the invention may refer to less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the claims below are incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim serving by itself to individually define the claimed subject matter.

The foregoing detailed description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive and it should be understood that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. The claims should not be considered limited to the described order or elements unless stated to that effect. Therefore, all embodiments and their equivalents within the scope and spirit of the following claims are claimed by the present invention.

100: Bicycle 102: Frame 104: Handlebars 106: Seat or saddle 108: First or front wheel 110: Front fork 112: Second or rear wheel 114: Rear suspension assembly 116: Drivetrain 118: Crank assembly 120: Chain 122: Rear cassette 124: Electronic cable puller 126: Shift cable 128: Controller 130: Cables 132: Rear derailleur 200: Housing 202: Base 204: First cover 206: Second cover 208: End plate 210: First end 212: Screw 214: Second end 216: Adjuster 218: Sleeve 220: Attachment protrusion 222: Mounting element 224: Motor 226: Gear box 228: Forward element 230: Bracket 232: Control circuit 234: Rotary seal 236: Passage 300: Core member 302: Attachment element 304: Support element 306: Housing 400: First output shaft 402: Second output shaft 404: Rotary position sensor 406: Ring gear housing 408: Common motor block 410: Spur gear segment 412: Planetary gear segment 414: Output interface 416: Drive gear 418: Spur gear 420: Planetary gear 422: Support member 424, 428: Cover 426: Spindle 430: Recess 432: Fastener 434, 436: Mounting hole 600: Wing 602: Body 604: Channel 606: First opening 608: Second opening 612: Intermediate Gap 614: Mounting hole 616: Support part 618: Retaining part 800: Low backlash interface 802: Bias device 804: First bearing 806: Rotary seal 808: Second bearing 901: Substrate 903: Processor 905: Antenna 907: Hall effect sensor 909: Attachment feature 1000: Communication part 1002: Mechanical part 1004: Cable attachment part 1100: Shift control 1102, 1104: Button 1106: Signal

The objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent by reading the following description in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a bicycle equipped with an electronic cable puller according to the teachings of the present invention;

FIG. 2a is an isometric view of an electronic cable puller for use with a bicycle such as the bicycle of FIG. 1 ;

FIG2b is a side view of the electronic cable puller of FIG1;

FIG. 2c is a perspective view of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a and 2b with a portion of the housing removed;

FIG. 2d is a side view of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a and 2b with a portion of the housing removed;

FIG. 3 is a side view of an adjuster of an electronic cable puller such as the electronic cable pullers of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIG. 4a is a perspective view of a drive system of an electronic cable puller such as the electronic cable pullers of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIG4b is a side view of the driving member of FIG4a;

FIG4c is a cross-sectional view of the driving member structure of FIGS. 4a and 4b;

FIG5 is an enlarged view of the driving member of FIG4a to FIG4c;

FIG. 6a is a side view of the bracket of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIG6b is a perspective view of the bracket of FIG6a;

FIG6c is a front view of the bracket of FIG6a and FIG6b;

FIG. 7a is a three-dimensional diagram of a bracket and a housing of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIG. 7 b is a front view of the bracket and housing of FIG. 7 a ;

FIG8 is a side view of a forward element and a bracket of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIG. 9a is a perspective view of the control electronics of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIG. 9b is another three-dimensional diagram of the control electronics of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d;

FIGS. 10a, 10b and 10c are cross-sectional views of the bracket of the electronic cable puller of FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c and 2d at different positions, respectively; and

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a shift control for a bicycle such as the bicycle of FIG. 1 .

126: Shift cable

130:Wire

200: Shell

202: Base

208: End plate

210: First End

214: Second End

216: Regulator

218: Sheath

220: Attachment protrusion

224: Motor

226: Gear Box

228: Forward element

230: Bracket

232: Control circuit

236: Passage

Claims (20)

An electronic cable puller for a bicycle, the electronic cable puller comprising: a housing; a drive member supported by the housing and powered by a power source, the drive member being configured to pull a shift cable into the electronic cable puller or to allow the shift cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller; and an adjuster connected to the housing and configured to adjust a length of the shift cable relative to a sheath. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driving member comprises: a motor; and a gear box connected to the motor. As in claim 2, the electronic cable puller, wherein the driving member further comprises: a forward element connected to the gear box, and the motor is configured to rotate the forward element via the gear box. The electronic cable puller of claim 3 further comprises: the shift cable; and a bracket disposed on the forward element, the bracket being connected to the shift cable, wherein the motor is configured to translate the bracket relative to the housing through the rotation of the forward element, so that the shift cable is pulled into the housing or allowed to be pulled out of the housing based on a direction of the translation. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 4, wherein the housing comprises: a base; a first cover attached to the base, the base and the first cover defining a first end of the electronic cable puller, the first end of the electronic cable puller being opposite to a second end of the cable puller; and a second cover removably attached to the base and adjacent to or proximate to the first cover. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 5, wherein the adjuster is a cylindrical adjuster connected to the housing at the second end of the electronic cable puller, wherein the sheath surrounds a portion of the shift cable, and wherein the adjuster is configured to modify a length of the sheath outside the electronic cable puller. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 5, wherein the base and the first cover at least partially define a first chamber, and the base and the second cover at least partially define a second chamber, wherein the first chamber is sealed, wherein the motor and the gear box are disposed in the sealed first chamber, wherein the bracket is disposed in the second chamber, and wherein the advancing element extends between the sealed first chamber and the second chamber. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 4, wherein the bracket comprises a body and a wing extending away from the body of the bracket, an outer contour of the wing corresponding to a channel on an inner surface of the shell. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 8, wherein the shift cable is connected to the bracket offset relative to one of the rotational axes of the forward element. The electronic cable puller of claim 4 further comprises: a controller supported by the housing, the controller communicating with the power source and the motor, wherein the controller is configured to control the motor. The electronic cable puller of claim 10 further comprises: one or more sensors that communicate with the controller and are configured to determine a position of the bracket, wherein the controller is configured to control the motor based on the determined position of the bracket. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 11, wherein the one or more sensors include a Hall effect sensor configured to determine a rotational position of the motor. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 1, wherein the power source is located outside the electronic cable puller. An electronic cable puller for a bicycle, the electronic cable puller comprising: a housing comprising: a base; a first cover, wherein the base and the first cover at least partially define a first chamber, the first chamber being sealed; and a second cover removably attached to the base and adjacent to or adjacent to the first cover, wherein the base and the second cover at least partially define a second chamber; a drive member supported by the housing and at least partially disposed within the first chamber; and a shift cable connected to the drive member and connectable to a shifter of the bicycle, wherein the drive member is configured to pull the shift cable into the electronic cable puller or to allow the shift cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller such that a length of the shift cable is outside the electronic cable puller. The electronic cable puller of claim 14, wherein the driving member further comprises: a motor; a gear box connected to the motor; and a forward element connected to the gear box, wherein the motor is configured to rotate the forward element through the gear box, wherein the electronic cable puller further comprises an internal threaded component disposed on the forward element, the shift cable is connected to the internal threaded component, and wherein the motor is configured to translate the internal threaded component relative to the housing through the rotation of the forward element, so that the shift cable is pulled into the housing or allowed to be pulled out of the housing based on a direction of the translation. An electronic cable puller as claimed in claim 15, wherein the housing includes an end plate attached to the second cover and the base, wherein the motor and the gear box are disposed in the sealed first chamber, wherein the internal threaded member is disposed in the second chamber, and wherein the advancing element extends between the sealed first chamber and the second chamber. The electronic cable puller of claim 15 further comprises: a seal supported by the housing and at least partially disposed between the first chamber and the second chamber, the seal being configured to seal the first chamber and the second chamber, the advancing element extending from the first chamber through the seal to the second chamber. The electronic cable puller of claim 14 further comprises: a circumferential seal disposed at least partially between the first cover and the base; and a potting seal disposed at an entrance of the wire into the housing. A drive system includes: a transmission; a cable; and an electronic cable puller connected to the transmission via the cable, the electronic cable puller handler including: a housing; a driver supported by the housing and connected to the cable, the driver configured to pull the cable into the electronic cable puller or allow the cable to be pulled out of the electronic cable puller; and an adjuster connected to the housing and configured to adjust a length of the cable relative to a sheath. A drive system as claimed in claim 19, wherein the electronic cable puller further comprises a lead disposed at a first end of the housing, the lead communicating with the drive, and wherein the adjuster is connected to the housing at a second end of the housing, the second end of the housing being opposite to the first end of the housing.