DE102016015890B4 - Electric bicycle front derailleur - Google Patents

Abstract

Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840), comprising:
a wireless communication unit (56; 156; 256; 356; 456; 556; 656; 756; 856) configured to wirelessly receive a control signal;
a movable member (52; 152; 252; 352; 452; 552; 652; 752; 852);
a connection (57) comprising a first connecting member and a second connecting member; and
an electric actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) configured to actuate the movable member (52; 152; 252; 352; 452; 552; 652; 752; 852) according to the control signal, the electric actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) including an electric actuator (80) having an output shaft extending downward in a state in which the electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) is mounted on a bicycle (1), wherein the electric actuator unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) includes a gear reduction unit (82) having a gear rotatable about an axis of rotation which is parallel and offset from an axis of rotation of the output shaft of the electric actuator (80); wherein
the electrical actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) comprises an electrical connection (76; 176; 276; 376; 476; 576; 676; 776; 876) configured to be detachably connected to an electrical cable (PLC1; PLC2) in order to supply the electrical actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) with electrical energy.

Description

REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from the Japanese patent application JP 2015-044818 , filed on 6 March 2015, the Japanese patent application JP 2016 - 165 991 A , filed September 8, 2015, of the US patent application US 2017 / 0 101 155 A1 , filed October 9, 2015, and US patent application US 2017 / 0 101 162 A1 , filed on February 9, 2015. The entire disclosure of the Japanese patent application JP 2015-044818 , the Japanese patent application JP 2016 - 165 991 A , the US patent application US 2017 / 0 101 155 A1 and the US patent application US 2017 / 0 101 162 A1 is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

field of the invention

This invention relates generally to an electric bicycle component. More particularly, the present invention relates to an electric bicycle front derailleur comprising a wireless communication unit which is detachably supported to an electric actuator unit.

background information

In recent years, some bicycles have been equipped with electrical components or devices to make it easier for the cyclist to operate the bicycle. In more recent years, there have been bicycle control systems that wirelessly control these electrical bicycle components or devices. An electric bicycle system is advantageous in that it can eliminate electrical cables that connect electrical bicycle components. Examples of some of these electrical bicycle components include suspensions, derailleur devices (e.g., front derailleurs, hub gears, etc.), and seat posts. Typically, bicycles equipped with electrical bicycle components are provided with a battery for supplying electrical power to the electrical bicycle component.

From the German patent application DE 10 2013 017 194 A1 For example, an electromechanical front derailleur for a bicycle is known. The bicycle has a chain with a base member attached to the bicycle. A four-bar linkage mechanism is movably connected to the base member. A chain guide is movably connected to the four-bar linkage mechanism for contacting the chain. A motor is supported by the base member. A gear train is driven by a motor to move the four-bar linkage mechanism. A CPU is provided for controlling the motor. Further, a power supply is provided which is supported by the base member to drive the motor and the CPU.

From the US patent document US 9 085 340 B1 An electronic front derailleur is known which comprises a drive element, a drive disc, a driven disc, a transmission shaft, a gear and a chain guide element which is arranged with a chain movement element connected to the gear, wherein the chain movement element is arranged with a groove for receiving a chain.

From the German document DE 60 2004 009 401 T2 An electric derailleur motor unit is known for a motorized derailleur assembly. The electric derailleur motor unit includes a derailleur motor support, a derailleur motor, and an output shaft. The derailleur motor is mounted on the derailleur motor support. The output shaft is operatively coupled to the derailleur motor and rotatably supported on the derailleur motor support.

From the US 2011 / 0 320 093 A1 a control system for bicycles is known which includes at least one user input element, a value generating unit, a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver. The value generating unit includes a memory component which at least temporarily stores a generated value. The value generating unit updates the generated value which was stored after actuation of at least one element entered by a user. The wireless transmitter periodically transmits control signals which indicate the generated value.

Furthermore, the document DE 10 2013 001 139 A1 an electric bicycle actuator unit is known which essentially comprises a housing, an electric drive part and a cable holding element. The electric drive part is arranged in the housing and is electrically connected to an electric cable. The cable holding element is provided on an outer surface of the housing to hold a portion of the electric cable. The electric bicycle actuator unit can, for example, be part of an electric bicycle component such as an electric front derailleur or an electric rear derailleur.

US 2007 / 0 184 925 A1 discloses a motorized derailleur control unit for bicycles, comprising a motor unit, a movable moving member (e.g., a motor linkage, a derailleur control linkage, and/or a chain guide), and a controller. The movable moving member is within a mechanical stroke in response to activation of the motor unit. The output unit has a motor output stroke with a predetermined maximum range of motion that is greater than the mechanical stroke of the movable member. The movable moving member has an anti-jam arrangement including an anti-jam spring. The anti-jam spring is configured and arranged to be compressed when the motor unit continues to apply a moving force to the movable member after the movable member has reached a locking position. The controller is configured to adjust the output stroke of the motor unit to an operating range of motion that is less than the prescribed maximum range of motion to leave the anti-jam biasing member uncompressed during normal shifting operation.

OVERVIEW

The object of the present application in view of the known prior art is to provide an electric bicycle front derailleur in which an electric actuating unit receives a control signal wirelessly and can be easily and simply electrically connected via an electric cable and at the same time has a compact shape.

This object is solved by the subject matter of main claim 1. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

In general, the present invention relates to various features of an electric bicycle front derailleur comprising a wireless communication unit, a movable member, a link, an electric actuator unit and an electric cable. Further aspects are set out below.

In view of the state of the known technology and according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electric bicycle front derailleur comprising a wireless communication unit, a movable member, a link, and an electric actuating unit. The wireless communication unit is configured to wirelessly receive a control signal. The link includes a first link and a second link. The electric actuating unit is configured to actuate the movable member according to the control signal, wherein the electric actuating unit includes an electric actuator having an output shaft extending downward in a state in which the electric bicycle front derailleur is mounted on a bicycle. The electric actuating unit includes a gear reduction unit having a gear rotatable about a rotation axis that is parallel to and offset from a rotation axis of the output shaft of the electric actuator. The electrical actuating unit comprises an electrical connector configured to be detachably connected to an electrical cable to supply the electrical actuating unit with electrical energy.

According to a first aspect, the gear reduction unit is connected to the electric actuator and transmits the rotational motion of the output shaft of the electric actuator to the movable member. The electric actuator has a housing from which the output shaft extends, and the gear reduction unit is configured to be arranged downward with respect to the housing in the state in which the electric bicycle front derailleur is mounted on the bicycle.

According to a further aspect, at least one part of a printed circuit board is designed to be arranged adjacent to the electrical actuator.

According to a further aspect, the electrical actuation unit includes an electrical connector that is electrically connected to the circuit board, and the electrical connector is configured to be detachably connected to the electrical cable to supply the electrical actuation unit with electrical energy.

According to a further aspect, at least one part of the electrical connection is designed to be arranged rearwardly with respect to the electrical actuator.

According to a further aspect, at least one part of the electrical connection is designed such that it is arranged downwards with respect to the electrical actuator.

According to a further aspect, the electrical actuation unit is configured to receive a control signal from the electrical cable or the wireless communication unit.

According to a further aspect, the wireless communication unit includes a wireless communication link with a two-way wireless com communication circuit and an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

According to a further aspect, the wireless communication unit is designed to communicate wirelessly with at least one of a smartphone and a computer.

In another aspect, the electric bicycle front derailleur further comprises a support structure that detachably supports the wireless communication unit.

In another aspect, the electric bicycle front derailleur further comprises a base member configured to support the electric actuator unit with respect to the bicycle.

In another aspect, the movable member includes a chain guide and the base member is configured to support the chain guide with respect to the bicycle.

According to a further aspect, the electric actuator is electrically connected to the circuit board.

According to a further aspect, the electric actuator is contained in a second housing of the electric actuation unit.

According to a further aspect, the gear reduction unit is contained in the second housing of the electrical actuation unit.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

• 1 ist/wird eine Seitenaufrissansicht eines Fahrrades welche ausgestattet ist mit elektrischen Fahrradkomponenten (d.h. einen Vorderumwerfer, einen Hinterumwerfer, eine Vorderfederung, eine Hinterfederung und eine einstellbare Sattelstange), welche jede eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit einschließt gemäß einer ersten Ausführung;
• 2 ist/wird eine Draufsicht eines Fahrradlenkstangenbereich des Fahrrads, dargestellt in 1;
• 3 ist eine vergrößerte Vorderendaufrissansicht des Vorderumwerfers (d.h. eine von den elektrischen Fahrradkomponenten) dargestellt in 1 in der eingefahrenen Position;
• 4 ist eine vergrößerte Vorderendaufrissansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 3, mit der Kettenführung in der eingefahrenen Position;
• 5 ist/wird eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 3 und 4, mit der Kettenführung in der eingefahrenen Position;
• 6 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 3 bis 5, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 7 ist/wird eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 3 bis 6, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 8 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht der Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 3 bis 7, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in der nichteingebauten Position;
• 9 ist/wird eine erste Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 3 bis 8,;
• 10 ist/wird eine zweite Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 3 bis 8,;
• 11 ist eine Explosionsperspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 3 bis 8,;
• 12 ist/wird eine Teilquerschnittsansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 3 bis 8, wie entlang der Schnittlinie 12 - 12 von 9;
• 13 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 3 bis 8, mit einem Abschnitt eines Gehäuses einer elektrischen Aktuiereinheit des Vorderumwerfers weggebrochen, um die inneren Parts der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit zu zeigen;
• 14 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 15 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 14, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 16 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer ersten Änderung der zweiten Ausführungsform zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 17 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 16, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 18 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer zweiten Änderung der zweiten Ausführungsform zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 19 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 18, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 20 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer dritten Änderung der zweiten Ausführungsform zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 21 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 20, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 22 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer vierten Änderung der zweiten Ausführungsform zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 23 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 2, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 24 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsform, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 25 ist/wird eine innere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 24, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 26 ist/wird eine Draufsicht einer Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer vierten Ausführungsform zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 27 ist/wird eine Draufsicht eines Vorderumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer Änderung des Vorderumwerfers der vierten Ausführungsform, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 28 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht eines Hinterumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform des Hinterumwerfers zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 29 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht des Hinterumwerfers, dargestellt in 28, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 30 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht eines Hinterumwerfers, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer Änderung der ersten Ausführungsform des Hinterumwerfers zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 31 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht des Hinterumwerfers, dargestellt in 30, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 32 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht einer einstellbaren Sattelstange, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der einstellbaren Sattelstange, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 33 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht der einstellbaren Sattelstange, dargestellt in 32 zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 34 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht einer einstellbaren Sattelstange, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer Änderung der ersten Ausführungsform der einstellbaren Sattelstange, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 35 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht der einstellbaren Sattelstange, dargestellt in 34, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 36 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht einer Hinterfederung, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der Hinterfederung, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 37 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht der Hinterfederung, dargestellt in 36, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 38 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht einer Hinterfederung, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit gemäß einer Änderung der ersten Ausführungsform der Hinterfederung, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in. einer verbauten Position;
• 39 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht der Hinterfederung, dargestellt in 38, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position;
• 40 ist/wird eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht, ähnlich zu 5, eines Vorderumwerfers gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 41 ist/wird eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 40, zeigend die Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer nicht-verbauten Position so dass ein elektrisches Kabel direkt gesteckt werden kann in den elektrischen Anschluss der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit;
• 42 ist/wird eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht des Vorderumwerfers dargestellt in 40 und 41, zeigend das elektrische Kabel in den elektrischen Anschluss der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit gesteckt;
• 43 ist/wird eine Hinterendaufrissansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 40 bis 42, zeigend die Kettenführung in der eingefahrenen Position mit der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit entfernt;
• 44 ist/wird eine Hinterendaufrissansicht des Vorderumwerfers, dargestellt in 40 bis 43, zeigend die Kettenführung in der eingefahrenen Position mit der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit entfernt und ein Abschnitt des Gehäuses für die elektrische Aktuiereinheit entfernt;
• 45 ist/wird eine perspektivische Ansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 40 bis 44, zeigend einen elektrischen Verbinder (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit, welcher in einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder passt (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit;
• 46 ist/wird eine Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 40 bis 45, zeigend einen elektrischen Verbinder (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit welcher einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder aufnimmt (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) eines elektrischen Kabels;
• 47 ist eine Schrägansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 40 bis 46, zeigende, dass die elektrischen Verbinder der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit senkrecht angeordnet sind/werden;
• 48 ist/wird ist eine perspektivische Schrägansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 40 bis 47, zeigend eine Kappe der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit einer explodierten Position, um den elektrischen Verbinder freizulegen (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit;
• 49 ist/wird eine Aufrissansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 41 bis 48, zeigend den elektrischen Verbinder (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit, welcher in einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder passt (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit;
• 50 ist/wird ist eine äußere Rückperspektivansicht eines Hinterumwerfers gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform, aufweisend eine Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in einer verbauten Position;
• 51 ist/wird eine innere Aufrissansicht des Hinterumwerfers, dargestellt in 50, mit dem elektrisches Kabel gezogen aus der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit;
• 52 ist/wird eine innere Perspektivansicht der Basis des Hinterumwerfers dargestellt in 50 and 51 mit der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit entfernt zum Zeigen eines elektrischen Gegenverbinders (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit welcher einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder aufnimmt (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit;
• 53 ist/wird eine Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit des Hinterumwerfers, dargestellt in 50 bis 52, zeigend den elektrischen Verbinder (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit, welcher in einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder passt (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit;
• 54 ist/wird eine Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 50 bis 52, zeigend die Anordnung des elektrischen Verbinders der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit in Bezug zu einander;
• 55 ist/wird eine weitere Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 50 bis 52, zeigend den elektrischen Verbinder (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit, welcher in einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder passt (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der elektrischen Aktuiereinheit; und
• 56 ist/wird Perspektivansicht der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit für den Vorderumwerfer, dargestellt in 50 bis 52, zeigend den elektrischen Verbinder (männlicher elektrischer Aufnahmeverbinder) der Drahtloskommunikationseinheit welcher einen elektrischen Gegenverbinder aufnimmt (elektrischer weiblicher Steckverbinder) eines elektrischen Kabels.

Referring to the attached drawings which are part of this original disclosure:

• 1 is a side elevational view of a bicycle equipped with electric bicycle components (ie, a front derailleur, a rear derailleur, a front suspension, a rear suspension, and an adjustable seat post), each including a wireless communication unit according to a first embodiment;
• 2 is a plan view of a bicycle handlebar area of the bicycle shown in 1 ;
• 3 is an enlarged front end elevational view of the front derailleur (i.e. one of the electric bicycle components) shown in 1 in the retracted position;
• 4 is an enlarged front end elevation view of the front derailleur shown in 3 , with the chain guide in the retracted position;
• 5 is an external rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 3 and 4 , with the chain guide in the retracted position;
• 6 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 3 to 5 , showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 7 is an external rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 3 to 6 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 8 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur, shown in 3 to 7 , showing the wireless communication unit in the non-installed position;
• 9 is a first perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 3 to 8 ,;
• 10 is a second perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 3 to 8 ,;
• 11 is an exploded perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 3 to 8 ,;
• 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 3 to 8 , as along the section line 12 - 12 of 9 ;
• 13 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 3 to 8 , with a portion of a housing of an electric actuator unit of the front derailleur broken away to show the internal parts of the electric actuator unit;
• 14 is an internal rear perspective view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a second embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 15 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 14 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 16 is an inner rear perspective view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a first modification of the second embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 17 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 16 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 18 is an inner rear perspective view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a second modification of the second embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 19 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 18 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 20 is an inner rear perspective view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a third modification of the second embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 21 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 20 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 22 is an inner rear perspective view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a fourth modification of the second embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 23 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 2 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 24 is an inner rear perspective view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a third embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 25 is an internal rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 24 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 26 is a plan view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a fourth embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 27 is a plan view of a front derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the front derailleur of the fourth embodiment, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 28 is an external rear perspective view of a rear derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a first embodiment of the rear derailleur, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 29 is an external rear perspective view of the rear derailleur, shown in 28 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 30 is an external rear perspective view of a rear derailleur having a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the first embodiment of the rear derailleur, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 31 is an external rear perspective view of the rear derailleur, shown in 30 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 32 is an external rear perspective view of an adjustable seat post having a wireless communication unit according to a first embodiment of the adjustable seat post, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 33 is an external rear perspective view of the adjustable seat post shown in 32 showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 34 is an external rear perspective view of an adjustable seat post having a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the first embodiment of the adjustable seat post, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 35 is an external rear perspective view of the adjustable seat post shown in 34 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 36 is an external rear perspective view of a rear suspension comprising a wireless communication unit according to a first embodiment of the rear suspension, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 37 is an external rear perspective view of the rear suspension shown in 36 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 38 is an external rear perspective view of a rear suspension having a wireless communication unit according to a modification of the first embodiment of the rear suspension, showing the wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 39 is an external rear perspective view of the rear suspension shown in 38 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position;
• 40 is/will be an external rear perspective view, similar to 5 , a front derailleur according to another embodiment, comprising a wireless communication unit in a installed position;
• 41 is an external rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 40 , showing the wireless communication unit in a non-installed position so that an electrical cable can be plugged directly into the electrical connector of the electrical actuation unit;
• 42 is an external rear perspective view of the front derailleur shown in 40 and 41 , showing the electrical cable plugged into the electrical connector of the electrical actuator unit;
• 43 is a rear end elevation view of the front derailleur shown in 40 to 42 , showing the chain guide in the retracted position with the wireless communication unit removed;
• 44 is a rear end elevation view of the front derailleur shown in 40 to 43 , showing the chain guide in the retracted position with the wireless communication unit removed and a portion of the housing for the electrical actuator unit removed;
• 45 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 40 to 44 , showing an electrical connector (female electrical connector) of the wireless communication unit which fits into a mating electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the electrical actuation unit;
• 46 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 40 to 45 , showing an electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the wireless communication unit which receives a mating electrical connector (female electrical connector) of an electrical cable;
• 47 is an oblique view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 40 to 46 , showing that the electrical connectors of the wireless communication unit are arranged vertically;
• 48 is an oblique perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 40 to 47 , showing a cap of the wireless communication unit of an exploded position to expose the electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the wireless communication unit;
• 49 is an elevational view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 41 to 48 , showing the electrical connector (female electrical connector) of the wireless communication unit which fits into a mating electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the electrical actuation unit;
• 50 is an external rear perspective view of a rear derailleur according to another embodiment, comprising a wireless communication unit in an installed position;
• 51 is an internal elevational view of the rear derailleur shown in 50 , with the electrical cable pulled out of the wireless communication unit;
• 52 An internal perspective view of the base of the rear derailleur is shown in 50 and 51 with the wireless communication unit removed to show a mating electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the electrical actuating unit which receives a mating electrical connector (female electrical connector) of the wireless communication unit;
• 53 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit of the rear derailleur shown in 50 to 52 , showing the electrical connector (female electrical connector) of the wireless communication unit which fits into a mating electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the electrical actuation unit;
• 54 is a perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 50 to 52 , showing the arrangement of the electrical connector of the wireless communication unit in relation to each other;
• 55 is another perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur, shown in 50 to 52 , showing the electrical connector (female electrical connector) of the wireless communication unit which fits into a mating electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the electrical actuation unit; and
• 56 is/will be perspective view of the wireless communication unit for the front derailleur shown in 50 to 52 , showing the electrical connector (male electrical receptacle connector) of the wireless communication unit which receives a mating electrical connector (female electrical connector) of an electrical cable.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Selected embodiments will be described with reference to the figures. It will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are intended for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Initially referring to 1 , a bicycle is shown which is equipped with a wireless communication system 10 according to a first embodiment. In 1 the bicycle 1 is a dual suspension bicycle (off-road bicycle). However, as discussed herein, the wireless communication system 10 is not limited to the illustrated bicycle, but rather may be adapted to other types of bicycles such as a road bicycle with a racing handlebar.

The bicycle 1 includes a bicycle main frame 12, a front suspension fork 14 (i.e., a bicycle front suspension), a rear swing arm 16, a rear shock absorber 18 (i.e., a bicycle rear suspension), and an adjustable seat post 20. A handlebar 22 is fixed to the top of the front suspension fork 14 to steer the bicycle 1. The lower end of the front suspension fork pivotally supports a front wheel 24. The rear swing arm 16 is pivotally mounted to the bicycle main frame 12, and pivotally supports a rear wheel 26. A bicycle seat or saddle 28 is mounted to the adjustable seat post 20, which is adjustably mounted to the bicycle main frame 12. The bicycle 1 further includes a drive train comprising a front pedal crank 30, a rear sprocket cassette 32, and a chain 34. The bicycle 1 further includes a power supply unit 38 (i.e., a rechargeable battery). The bicycle 1 further includes a front derailleur 40 and a rear derailleur 42 for changing the speeds of the drive train. The front derailleur 40 is mounted to the bicycle main frame 12, while the rear derailleur 42 is mounted to the rear swing arm 16.

In the illustrated embodiment, the front suspension fork 14, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seat post 20, the front derailleur 40, and the rear derailleur 42 are examples of electric bicycle components that are adjustable between at least two actuation modes. Thus, in certain present cases, the front suspension fork 14, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seat post 20, the front derailleur 40, and the rear derailleur 42 are collectively referred to as electric bicycle components. As discussed further below, the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 are configured for both wireless communications and wired communications. In 1 the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 are configured for wireless communications. Since electric bicycle components, such as the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 illustrated herein, are well known in the bicycle art, the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 will be described only to the extent necessary to understand the modifications made to practice the present invention. Also, the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 are not limited to the electric bicycle components and the particular arrangements disclosed herein. Rather, the wireless communication system 10 may include any combination of the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42, as well as other bicycle components (not shown), as needed and/or desired.

As in 2 As can be seen, the handlebar 22 is provided with a bicycle computer 44, a first electrical component actuator 46, and a second electrical component actuator 48. The bicycle computer 44, the first electrical component actuator 46, and the second electrical component actuator 48 form the control portion of the wireless communication system 10, which controls the operations of the front suspension fork 14, the rear shock absorber 18, the adjustable seat post 20, the front derailleur 40, and the rear derailleur 42. The bicycle 10 further includes numerous other components typically incorporated on a bicycle, but which do not comprise the wireless communication system. tion system 10, which is described hereby.

As in 2 , the first electrical component actuator 46 includes a first manually operated input member SW1, while the second electrical component actuator 48 includes a second manually operated input member SW2. The first and second manually operated input members SW1 and SW2 may be used to control one or two of the electric bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42. At least one of the input members SW1 and SW2 may include a wireless transmitter for transmitting a wireless signal, such as a switching signal, to the wireless communication unit according to the present invention.

Here, the bicycle computer 44 includes a wireless communication unit (not shown) for wirelessly transmitting and/or receiving signals and data to/from the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 based on the operation signals from the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. Thus, the wireless communication unit of the bicycle computer 44 is a two-way wireless communication unit that performs two-way wireless communications using a wireless receiver and a wireless transmitter. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle computer 44 includes a power line communication port 44a into which an electric cable 44B is plugged for transmitting the control signals to the wiring nodes (not shown) via the electric cable 44b using the power line communications. Thus, the bicycle computer 44 may be used for wireless communications and/or power line communications as needed and/or desired. Of course, in a purely wireless configuration, the electrical cable 44b is not required for communication between the bicycle computer 44 and the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40 and 42.

The wireless control signals of the bicycle computer 44 may be radio frequency (RF) signals or any other type of signal suitable for wireless communications as understood in the bicycle field. It should also be understood that the second wireless communication unit of the bicycle computer 44 may transmit signals at a particular frequency and/or with an identifier, such as a particular code, to distinguish the wireless control signal from other wireless control signals. In this way, the bicycle electrical components 14, 18, 20, 40 and 42 may recognize which control signals to act upon and which control signals to ignore. For example, the front derailleur 40 and the rear derailleur 42 may recognize which control signals are upshifting signals and which signals are downshifting signals. Thus, the front derailleur 40 may ignore control signals for the rear derailleur 42.

Also, while the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 are illustrated as being connected by control wires W1 and W2, it will be apparent from this disclosure that each of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 may include a wireless communication unit (not shown) that either communicates directly with the electrical bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42, or communicates with the electrical bicycle components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42 via the bicycle computer 44. In the present invention, the wireless communication unit may be used for wireless communication with other devices, such as a smartphone or a personal computer, for updating firmware stored in a memory disposed, for example, in at least one of the electrical bicycle components.

The bicycle computer 44 is programmed to selectively output wireless control signals to selectively control the bicycle electric components 14, 18, 20, 40, and 42. In particular, the bicycle computer 44 includes a suspension adjustment program, a seat post adjustment program, and a shifting program stored in memory. The bicycle computer 44 is configured so that the user can set a suspension adjustment mode, a seat post adjustment mode, and a shifting mode. In the suspension adjustment mode, the actuation signals output from the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 are used by the cycle computer 44 to selectively control one or both of the front suspension fork 14 and the rear shock absorber 18 based on the suspension adjustment program stored in the memory of the cycle computer 44. In the seat post adjustment mode, the actuation signals output from the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 are used by the cycle computer 44 to selectively control the adjustable seat post 20 based on the seat post adjustment program stored in the memory of the cycle computer 44. In the shift mode, the actuation signals output from the first and second electrical components ten actuators 46 and 48 used by the cycle computer 44 to selectively control one or both of the front derailleur 40 and the rear derailleur 42 based on the shifting program stored in the memory of the cycle computer 44.

Now look at the 3 to 13 Turning to FIG. 1, the front derailleur 40 will now be described in more detail. Essentially, the front derailleur 40 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 50, a movable member 52, an electric actuator unit 54, and a wireless communication unit 56. Here, the movable member 52 includes a chain guide 52a. As shown in 3 and 4 As can be seen, the chain guide 52a is operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 54 for moving the chain guide 52a between a first (retracted) position and a second (extended) position through a linkage 57. Likewise, the front derailleur 40 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 58 which is configured to mount the electric actuator unit 54 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 54 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. The base member 58 is configured to support the electric actuator unit 54. Likewise, the base member 58 is configured to support the chain guide 52a through the linkage 57.

How 5 to 8 As seen, an electrical cable (power supply line) PLC1 has a first end detachably connected to the electrical actuator unit 54 for supplying electrical power from the power supply unit 38. The electrical cable PLC1 has a second end detachably connected to a wiring node (not shown) for receiving electrical power and/or control signals via power line communications. When the wireless communication unit 56 is installed on the front derailleur 40 and wirelessly receives control signals from the bicycle computer 44, the electric cable PLC1 only supplies electric power to the electric actuator unit 54. However, when the wireless communication unit 54 is not installed or is not used, the electric cable PLC1 can be used to transmit control signals from the bicycle computer 44 to the electric actuator unit 54 via the electric cable 44b and the wiring node (not shown) using power line communication.

In the front derailleur 40, the support structure 50 is partially defined by the electric actuator unit 54 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 56. In particular, the wireless communication unit 56 includes a first housing 160. The electric actuator unit 54 includes a second housing 62. The second housing 62 is different from the first housing 60 (ie, the first and second housings 60 and 62 are separate and distinct members). The support structure 50 is arranged on at least one of the first housing 60 and the second housing 62. Here, the support structure 50 includes a mating portion 50a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 62 and/or the base member 58. The support structure 50 includes a space 50b formed between the base member 58 and the second housing 62 of the electric actuator unit 54, within which the mating portion 50a of the first housing 60 is to be supported. As in 7 and 8 As can be seen, the first housing 60 is designed for insertion into the space 50b.

As in 12 As seen, the support structure 50 includes a first snap connection structure 60a and a second snap connection structure 58a which releasably engages the first snap connection structure 60a. In the front derailleur 40, the first snap connection structure 60a is disposed on the first housing 60 while the second snap connection structure 58a is disposed on the base member 58. Alternatively, the first snap connection structure 60a may be disposed to engage a second snap connection structure disposed on the second housing 62 of the electric actuator unit 54. One of the first and second snap connection structures 60a and 58a includes a pawl and the other of the first and second snap connection structures 60a and 58a includes a latch. In the front derailleur 40, the first snap connection structure 60a is a pawl, and the second snap connection structure 58a is a catch. In this way, the support structure 50 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 56 to the front derailleur 40 (the bicycle electric component). Instead of or in addition to the snap connection, a screw and threaded hole connection may be used to detachably support the wireless communication unit 56 to the front derailleur 40.

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

As in 12 As can be seen, the wireless communication unit 56 includes a pair of first electrical contacts 70. The second electrical contacts 70 are configured to electrically contact the first electrical contacts 64 in a state in which the first housing 60 is disposed in the space 50b. In the case of the front derailleur 40, the second electrical contacts 70 are spring-loaded contacts. The second electrical contacts 70 are disposed on a connecting surface facing an insertion direction (shown as an arrow in 12 ) of the first housing 60 into the space 50b.

One of the wireless communication unit 56 and the electrical actuator unit 54 includes a seal 72 configured to surround the first and second electrical contacts 64 and 70 in the state in which the first housing 60 is attached to the second housing 62. The seal 72 is an elastomeric member in the form of an O-ring disposed on a mounting surface 60b of the first housing 60 around the first electrical contacts 64. Alternatively, the seal 72 may be mounted on the second housing 62. The second housing 62 of the electrical actuator unit 54 together with the second electrical contacts 70 define an electrical terminal 73 which receives the part of the first housing 60 which defines the mounting surface 60b.

As in 13 , the electrical actuator unit 54 includes a circuit board 74 and a first electrical terminal 76 electrically connected to the circuit board 74. The first electrical terminal 76 is configured for detachable and reattachable connection to the electrical connector of the electrical cable PLC1 thereon. The second electrical contacts 70 are also electrically connected to the circuit board 74. The electrical actuator unit 54 further includes a controller 78 disposed on a circuit board 74. The controller 78 includes a central processing unit (CPU). Preferably, the electrical actuator unit 54 further includes one or more memory devices such as a ROM (read only memory) device, a RAM (random access) device, and/or a FLASH memory device.

As in 13 As can be seen, the electric actuator unit 54 includes an electric actuator 80 contained in the second housing 62. The electric actuator 80 is electrically connected to the circuit board 74. In the front derailleur 40, the electric actuator 80 is a reversible electric motor. The electric actuator 80 is configured to actuate the movable member 52. The electric actuating unit 54 further includes a gear reduction unit 82 which is connected to the electric actuator 80 and which transmits the rotational motion of the output shaft of the electric actuator 80 to a swinging motion of the chain guide 52a via a link 54. A position sensor (not shown) is provided on the gear reduction unit 82 for detecting an amount of rotational motion output from the gear reduction unit 82. The circuit board is provided with an actuator driver (not shown) for controlling the electric actuator 80 and a position detection circuit (not shown) for determining an amount of rotational motion output from the gear reduction unit 82. Position sensors, actuator drivers (actuator motor drivers) and Position detection circuits are well known in the bicycle field and are therefore not described in detail here.

Now 14 and 15 Turning to FIG. 1, a front derailleur 140 will be described according to a second embodiment. The front derailleur 140 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 in place of the front derailleur 40 to be actuated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. Basically, the front derailleur 140 (the electrical bicycle component) includes a support structure 150, a movable member 152, an electrical actuator unit 154, and a wireless communication unit 156. Here, the front derailleur 140 (the electrical bicycle component) further includes a base member 158 configured to mount the electrical actuator unit 154 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 154 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. Also, movable member 152 includes a chain guide 152a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 154 to move the chain guide 152a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment, as described above.

Here in the second embodiment, the front derailleur 140 is identical to the front derailleur 40 as described above, except that the support structure 150 and the electric actuator unit 154 have been modified so that the wireless communication unit 156 is directly mounted to the electric actuator unit 154, and the wireless communication unit 156 includes a pair of electric cables PLC1 and PLC2 (power line communication lines) which are electrically connected to the circuit board of the wireless communication link (not shown) inside the wireless communication unit 156 instead of the electrical contacts of the wireless communication unit 56.

In the case of the front derailleur 140, the support structure 150 is partially defined by the electric actuator unit 154 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 156. In particular, the wireless communication unit 156 includes a first housing 160. The electric actuator unit 154 includes a second housing 162. The support structure 150 includes a mating portion 150a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 162. The support structure 150 includes a recess 150b within which the mating portion 150a of the first housing 160 is to be supported. The recess 150b is formed on the second housing 162. In the case of the front derailleur 140, the second housing 162 has a frame-facing surface 163 having the recess 150b. The frame facing surface 163 is configured to face the bicycle frame 12 in a state in which the front derailleur 140 (i.e., the bicycle electric component) is mounted to the bicycle frame 12.

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

In the case of the front derailleur 140, the wireless communication unit 156 includes a wireless communication member contained in the first housing 160. The wireless communication member is a circuit board with a two-way wireless communication circuit printed thereon. Preferably, the circuit board of the wireless communication unit includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The electric cables PLC1 and PLC2 from the wireless communication unit 156 are non-detachably electrically connected to the circuit board of the wireless communication member. The electrical cable PLC1 is configured to be plugged into the wiring port (not shown), and the electrical cable PLC1 is configured to be plugged into an electrical port 176 of the electrical actuator unit 154. In this way, the power supply unit 38 supplies electrical power to the electrical actuator unit 154 and the wireless communication unit 156.

While the wireless communication unit 156 includes the electrical cables PLC1 and PLC2, it will be apparent from this disclosure that other wiring arrangements are possible. Essentially, the wireless communication unit 156 includes at least one of an electrical connector and an electrical cable disposed on the first housing 160. Accordingly, the electrical actuation unit 154 includes at least one electrical connector disposed on the second housing 162. The at least one electrical connector of the electrical actuation unit 154 is configured to electrically connect to at least one of the electrical connector and the electrical cable of the wireless communication unit 156.

Now 16 and 17 Turning to FIG. 1, a front derailleur 240 will be described according to a first modification of the second embodiment. The front derailleur 240 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 to be operated by one or both of the first and second electric component actuators 46 and 48. Basically, the front derailleur 240 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 250, a movable member 252, an electric actuator unit 254, and a wireless communication unit 256. Here, the front derailleur 240 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 258 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 254 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 254 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 252 includes a chain guide 252a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 254 for moving the chain guide 252a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment, as described above.

Here in the first modification of the second embodiment, the front derailleur 240 is identical to the front derailleur 140 as described above, except that the electric cable PLC2 is detachable from a terminal from the wireless communication unit 256, instead of being non-detachably electrically wired to the circuit board in the wireless communication unit 156.

In the case of the front derailleur 240, the support structure 250 is partially defined by the electric actuator unit 254 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 256. In particular, the wireless communication unit 256 includes a first housing 260. The electric actuator unit 254 includes a second housing 262. The support structure 250 includes a mating portion 250a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 262. The support structure 250 includes a recess 250b within which the mating portion 250a of the first housing 260 is to be supported. The recess 250b is formed on the second housing 262. In the case of the front derailleur 240, the second housing 262 has a frame-facing surface 263 having the recess 250b. The frame facing surface 263 is configured to face the bicycle frame 12 in a state in which the front derailleur 240 (i.e., the bicycle electric component) is mounted to the bicycle frame 12.

The support structure 250 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 256 to the front derailleur 240 (the bicycle electric component). Similar to the case of the first embodiment, the support structure 250 includes a first snap connection structure 260a and a second snap connection structure 262a that detachably engages with the first snap connection structure 260a. In the case of the front derailleur 140, the first snap connection structure 260a is disposed on the first housing 160, while the second snap connection structure 262a is disposed on the second housing 262. In the front derailleur 240, the first snap connection structure 260a is a pawl, and the second snap connection structure 262a is a latch. In this way, the support structure 250 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 256 on the front derailleur 240 (the electric bicycle component).

In the case of the front derailleur 240, the wireless communication unit 256 includes a wireless communication member contained in the first housing 260. The wireless communication member is a circuit board with a two-way wireless communication circuit printed thereon. Preferably, the circuit board of the wireless communication unit includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The electric cable PLC1 has a first end which is configured to be plugged into an electric connector 256a (connection terminal) of the wireless communication unit 256 and a second end which is configured to be plugged into the wiring node (not shown). The electrical cable PLC2 from the wireless communication unit 256 has a first end which is non-detachably connected to the circuit board of the wireless communication unit, and a second end which is configured to be plugged into an electrical connector 276 of the electrical actuating unit 254. In this way, the power supply unit 38 supplies electrical power to the electrical actuating unit 254 and the wireless communication unit 256.

Now 18 and 19 Turning to FIG. 14, a front derailleur 340 will be described according to a second modification of the second embodiment. The front derailleur 340 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 to be operated by one or both of the first and second electric component actuators 46 and 48. Basically, the front derailleur 340 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 350, a movable member 352 (i.e., a chain guide), an electric actuator unit 354, and a wireless communication unit 356. Here, the front derailleur 340 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 358 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 354 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 354 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. Also, movable member 352 includes a chain guide 352a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 354 for moving the chain guide 352a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment, as described above.

Here, in this embodiment, the front derailleur 340 is identical to the front derailleur 140 as described above, except that the cable arrangement has been modified such that the electrical cable PLC1 is plugged into a first electrical port 376 of the electrical actuation unit 354, and the electrical cable PLC2 is plugged into a second electrical port of the electrical actuation unit 354. The electrical ports are identical to the electrical ports 73 and 76 of the first embodiment as described above. Here, the electrical cable PLC1 has a first end which is configured to be plugged into the electrical port 376 of the electrical actuation unit 254, and a second end which is configured to be plugged into the electrical port 376 of the electrical actuation unit 254. tie into the wiring node (not shown). The electric cable PLC2 has a first end which is non-detachably connected to the circuit board of a wireless communication member, and a second end which is configured to be plugged into the electrical connector of the electric actuator unit 354. In this way, the power supply unit 38 supplies electric power to the electric actuator unit 254 and the wireless communication unit 256 via the electric cable PLC1 and PLC2.

Now 20 and 21 Turning to , a front derailleur 440 will be described according to a third variation of the second embodiment. However, in view of the similarities between this third variation of the second embodiment and the second embodiment, the following description will focus on the differences from the second embodiment. The front derailleur 440 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 to be operated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. Basically, the front derailleur 440 (the electrical bicycle component) includes a support structure 450, a movable member 452, an electrical actuator unit 454, and a wireless communication unit 456. Here, the front derailleur 440 (the electrical bicycle component) further includes a base member 458 configured to mount the electrical actuator unit 454 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 454 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 452 includes a chain guide 452a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 454 for moving the chain guide 452a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment, as described above.

In the case of the front derailleur 440, the support structure 450 is partially defined by the electric actuator unit 454 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 456. Specifically, the wireless communication unit 456 includes a first housing 460. The electric actuator unit 454 includes a second housing 462. The support structure 450 includes a mating portion 450a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 462. The support structure 450 includes a recess 450b within which the mating portion 450a of the first housing 460 is to be supported. The recess 450b is formed on the second housing 462. The support structure 450 removably supports the wireless communication unit 456 on the front derailleur 440 (the bicycle electric component).

Here, in the third modification of the second embodiment, the front derailleur 440 is identical to the front derailleur 340 as described above, except that the wireless communication unit 456 is provided with a pair of spring-loaded electrical contacts 464, and the electrical actuating unit 454 is provided with a pair of exposed second electrical contacts 470. The exposed second electrical contacts 470 are contacted by the spring-loaded first electrical contacts 464 when the wireless communication unit 456 is installed on the electrical actuating unit 454.

A seal 472 is provided on the second housing 462 in the recess 450b to protect the electrical connection between the first and second electrical contacts 464 and 470 from contamination. The seal 472 is configured to surround the first and second contacts 464 and 470 in the state in which the first housing 460 is attached to the second housing 462.

Now 22 and 23 Turning to FIG. 14, a front derailleur 540 will be described according to a fourth modification of the second embodiment. The front derailleur 540 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 instead of the front derailleur 40 to be operated by one or both of the first and second electric component actuators 46 and 48. Basically, the front derailleur 540 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 550, a movable member 552 (i.e., a chain guide), an electric actuator unit 554, and a wireless communication unit 556. Here, the front derailleur 540 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 558 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 554 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 554 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 552 includes a chain guide 552a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 554 for moving the chain guide 552a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment, as described above.

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

Here, in this embodiment, the front derailleur 540 is identical to the front derailleur 440 as described above, except that the electric actuating unit 554 is provided with an electric cable 555, and the wireless communication unit 556 is provided with an electric connector 557 which matingly connects with an electric connector 555a of the electric cable 555 in a detachable and reconnectable manner.

A gasket 572 is provided on the second housing 562 in the recess 550b for protecting the electrical connection between the electrical connector 555a and the electrical connector 557 from contamination. The gasket 572 is configured to surround the first and second electrical contacts of the electrical connector 555a and the electrical connector 557 in the state in which the first housing 560 is attached to the second housing 562.

Now 24 and 25 , a front derailleur 640 will be described according to a third embodiment. The front derailleur 640 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 in place of the front derailleur 40 to be actuated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. Basically, the front derailleur 640 (the electrical bicycle component) includes a support structure 650, a movable member 652 (i.e., a chain guide), an electrical actuator unit 654, and a wireless communication unit 656. Here, the front derailleur 640 (the electrical bicycle component) further includes a base member 658 configured to mount the electrical actuator unit 654 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 654 may be mounted directly to the bicycle frame 12. Also, movable member 652 includes a chain guide 652a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 654 for moving the chain guide 652a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment, as described above.

In the case of the front derailleur 640, the support structure 650 is partially defined by the electric actuator unit 654 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 656. Specifically, the wireless communication unit 656 includes a first housing 660. The electric actuator unit 654 includes a second housing 662. The support structure 650 includes a mating portion 650a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 662. The support structure 650 includes a space 650b disposed on the second housing 662 of the electric actuator unit 654 for receiving the mating portion 650a of the first housing 660. The first housing 660 is configured to be inserted into the space 650b. The support structure 650 detachably supports the wireless communication unit 656 to the front derailleur 640 (the bicycle electric component). In this embodiment, the first housing 660 may be omitted and the second housing 662 may be a first housing of the wireless communication unit 656 as an integral member that accommodates a wireless communication member.

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

The second housing 662 includes a cover 671 which is configured to close an opening 650c of the space 650b. Here, the cover is hingedly mounted to the second housing 662 between a first position and an open position. The cover 671 is provided with a latch which engages with a catch of the second housing 662 so that the cover 671 is held in the closed position by a snap connection. The electric actuator unit 654 includes a gasket 672 which is configured to seal an interface between the second housing 662 around the opening 650c and the cover 671 in a state in which the cover 671 closes the opening 650c.

Accordingly, the cover 671 is designed to cover the second electrical contacts 670 which are arranged on the second housing 662 when the first electrical contacts 664 of the wireless communication unit 656 are detached from the second electrical contacts 670. In this way, the cover 671 protects the second electrical contacts 670 in a situation in which the wireless communication unit 656 is not used, ie when an electrical wire communication system is used.

Now 26 Turning to FIG. 1, a front derailleur 740 will now be described according to a fourth embodiment. The front derailleur 740 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 in place of the front derailleur 40 to be actuated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. Essentially, the front derailleur 740 (the bicycle electrical component) includes a power supply unit 738 and a power supply bracket 739. In the case of the front derailleur 740, a support structure 750 is defined by the power supply unit 738 and the power supply bracket 739. Thus, in the case of the front derailleur 740, power is not supplied by the power supply unit 738 when the front derailleur 740 is mounted to the bicycle frame 12.

Essentially, the front derailleur 740 (the electric bicycle component) includes a movable member 752, an electric actuator unit 754, and a wireless communication unit 756. Here, the front derailleur 740 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 758 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 754 to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 754 may be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 752 includes a chain guide 752a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 754 for moving the chain guide 752a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment as described above. The support structure 750 (i.e., the power supply unit 738 and the power supply bracket 739) supports the wireless communication unit 756 to the bicycle frame 12.

In the case of the front derailleur 740, the wireless communication unit 756 includes a first housing 760 for receiving a wireless communication member. The electrical actuator unit 754 includes a second housing 762. The wireless communication unit 756 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 described above in that the wireless communication unit 756 plugs into a recess of the power supply unit 738 for electrical connection to the electrical actuator unit 754. The first housing 760 and the power supply unit 738 have a snap connection, similar to the first embodiment, for retaining the first housing 760 in the recess of the power supply unit 738. In this way, the first housing 760 is configured to be releasably supported on the power supply unit 738.

As mentioned above, the wireless communication unit 756 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 described above, and thus the wireless communication unit 756 includes the wireless communication member and first electrical contacts (not shown). Since the wireless communication unit 756 is supported by the power supply unit 738, the power supply bracket 739 is configured to contain the wireless communication member. In this embodiment, the first housing 760 may be omitted and a housing of the power supply bracket 739 may be a first housing of the wireless communication unit 756 as an integral member that accommodates the wireless communication member.

The power supply unit 738 is configured to supply electric power to the electric actuator unit 754 via an electric cable PLC1. The electric cable PLC1 also provides control signals from the wireless communication unit 756 to the electric actuator unit 754 using power line communications. The power supply bracket 739 is configured to mount the power supply unit 738 to the front derailleur 740 (the electric bicycle component). The power supply bracket 739 is also configured to support the electric actuator unit 754 to the front derailleur 740 (the electric bicycle component) as a support structure in this embodiment. In other words, the power supply bracket 739 forms the support structure 750 in this embodiment. The front derailleur 740 is substantially identical to the front derailleur 40 except that the wireless communication unit 756 is now supported by the battery holder 739, and the power and control signals for the electrical actuator unit 754 are supplied via the electrical cable PLC1 using power line communications.

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

The electric actuator unit 754 includes at least one electric terminal 776 disposed on the second housing 762. The power supply unit 738 includes at least one of an electric terminal and an electric cable (i.e., an electric terminal 777). One end of the electric cable PLC1 is plugged into the electric terminal 776 of the electric actuator unit 754, while the other end of the electric cable PLC1 is plugged into the electric terminal 777 of the power supply unit 738. The electric cable PLC1 receives both power from the power supply unit 738 and data (control signals) from the wireless communication unit 756 via the electric terminal 777. Alternatively, one or both ends of the electric cable PLC1 may be non-detachably connected between the power supply unit 738 and the power supply bracket 739.

Now 27 Turning to FIG. 1, a front derailleur 840 will now be described according to a fourth embodiment. The front derailleur 840 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 in place of the front derailleur 40 to be actuated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuating devices 46 and 48. Essentially, the front derailleur 840 (the bicycle electrical component) includes a power supply unit 838 and a power supply bracket 839. Thus, in the case of the front derailleur 840, power is not supplied by the power supply unit 838 when the front derailleur 840 is mounted to the bicycle frame 12.

Essentially, the front derailleur 840 (the electric bicycle component) includes a movable member 852, an electric actuator unit 854, and a wireless communication unit 856. Here, the front derailleur 840 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 858 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 854 to the bicycle frame 12. In the case of the front derailleur 840, the base member 858 is a hinged bracket that attaches to the seat tube of the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 852 includes a chain guide 852a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 854 for moving the chain guide 852a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment as described above.

In the case of the front derailleur 840, the support structure 850 is defined by the power supply bracket 839. Here, the wireless communication unit 856 includes a first housing 860 for receiving a wireless communication member 866. The electrical actuator unit 854 includes a second housing 862. The wireless communication unit 856 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 described above in that the wireless communication unit 856 plugs into a recess in the power supply bracket 839 for electrical connection to the electrical actuator unit 854. The first housing 860 of the wireless communication unit 856 and the recess of the power supply bracket 839 have a snap connection similar to the first embodiment for retaining the first housing 860 in the recess of the power supply bracket 839. In this way, the first housing 860 is configured to be detachably supported on the power supply bracket 839. Alternatively, the wireless communication member 866 is non-detachably contained within the power supply bracket 839, considered as the first housing of the wireless communication unit 856.

As mentioned above, the wireless communication unit 856 is similar to the wireless communication unit 56 described above and therefore includes a wireless communication member 866 and first electrical contacts (not shown). Since the wireless communication unit 856 is supported by the housing of the power supply bracket 839, the power supply bracket 839 is configured to contain the wireless communication member 866.

The power supply unit 838 is configured to supply electric power to the electric actuator unit 854 via an electric cable PLC1. The electric cable PLC1 also provides control signals from the wireless communication unit 856 to the electric actuator unit 854 using power line communications. The power supply bracket 839 is configured to mount the power supply unit 838 to the front derailleur 840 (the electric bicycle component). The power supply bracket 839 is also configured to support the electric actuator unit 854 to the front derailleur 840 (the electric bicycle component) as a support structure in this embodiment. In other words, the power supply bracket 839 forms the support structure in this embodiment. The front derailleur 840 is substantially identical to the front derailleur 40 except that the wireless communication unit 856 is now supported by the battery holder 839, and the power and control signals for the electrical actuator unit 854 are supplied via the electrical cable PLC1 using power line communications.

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

The electric actuator unit 854 includes at least one electric terminal 876 disposed on the second housing 862. The power supply unit 838 includes at least one of an electric terminal and an electric cable (i.e., an electric terminal 877). One end of the electric cable PLC1 is plugged into the electric terminal 876 of the electric actuator unit 854, while the other end of the electric cable PLC1 is plugged into the electric terminal 877 of the power supply unit 838. The electric cable PLC1 receives both power from the power supply unit 838 and data (control signals) from the wireless communication unit 856 via the electric terminal 877. Alternatively, one or both ends of the electric cable PLC1 may be non-detachably connected between the power supply unit 838 and the power supply bracket 839. All the features in any of the four embodiments can be combined if needed and/or desired.

Now 1 , 2 , 28 and 29 Turning to FIG. 1, the rear derailleur 42 will now be described according to the first embodiment. As shown in 1 , the rear derailleur 42 is mounted on the rear swing arm 16. Here, while the cycle computer 44 is set in a shifting mode, one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 may be used to control the rear derailleur 42 based on a shifting program stored in the memory of the cycle computer 44.

Essentially, the rear derailleur 42 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 950, a movable member 952, an electric actuator unit 954, and a wireless communication unit 956. Here, the rear derailleur 42 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 958 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 954 to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 952 includes a chain guide 952a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 954 to move the chain guide 952a between a first position and a second position.

Here, the electric actuator unit 954 and the wireless communication unit 956 are detachably coupled to each other using a snap connection, which is the same as used with the front derailleur 440. In fact, the wireless communication unit 956 is identical to the wireless communication unit 456 described above. Thus, the wireless communication units 456 and 956 are interchangeable. The wireless communication unit 956 is configured to be detachably supported on an additional electric bicycle component (e.g., the front derailleur 440) other than the rear derailleur 42 (the electric bicycle component). Likewise, the wireless communication unit 456 is configured to be releasably supported on an additional electric bicycle component (e.g., the rear derailleur 42) other than the front derailleur 440 (the electric bicycle component).

The electric actuator unit 954 is the same as the electric actuator unit 54 described above, except that the electric actuator unit 954 is adapted to the configuration of the rear derailleur 42. With respect to the electric actuator unit 954 and the wireless communication unit 956, and given the similarities in construction between the rear derailleur 42 and the front derailleur 440, the electric actuator unit 954 and the wireless communication unit 956 of the rear derailleur 42 will not be described in detail here.

Now 30 and 31 Turning to FIG. 1, the rear derailleur 42' will now be described according to a modification of the rear derailleur 42. Essentially, the rear derailleur 42' (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 950', a movable member 952', an electric actuator unit 954', and a wireless communication unit 956'. Here, the rear derailleur 42' (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 958' configured to mount the electric actuator unit 954' to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 952' includes a chain guide 952a' operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 954' to move the chain guide 952a' between a first position and a second position.

Here, the electrical actuation unit 954' and the wireless communication unit 956' are detachably coupled to each other using a hinge cover 971'. Here, the hinge cover 971' is hingedly mounted to the second housing 962' between a first position and an open position. The hinge cover 971' is provided with a latch which engages with a catch of the second housing 962' so that the pivot cover 971' is held in the closed position by a snap connection. The rear derailleur 42' utilizes the pivot cover 971' as used with the front derailleur 640. In fact, the wireless communication unit 956' is identical to the wireless communication unit 656 described above. Thus, the wireless communication units 656 and 956' are interchangeable. The wireless communication unit 956' is configured to be removably supported on an additional electric bicycle component (e.g., the front derailleur 640) other than the rear derailleur 42' (the electric bicycle component). Likewise, the wireless communication unit 656' is configured to be releasably supported on an additional electric bicycle component (e.g., the rear derailleur 42') other than the front derailleur 640 (the electric bicycle component).

The electrical actuator unit 954' is the same as the electrical actuator unit 54 as described above, except that the electrical actuator unit 954' is adapted to the configuration of the rear derailleur 42'. With respect to the electrical actuator unit 954' and the wireless communication unit 956', and given the similarities in construction between the rear derailleur 42' and the front derailleur 640, the electrical actuator unit 954' and the wireless communication unit 956' of the rear derailleur 42' will not be described in detail here.

Now 1 , 32 and 33 Turning to FIG. 1, the adjustable seat post 20 will now be described according to the first embodiment. As shown in 1 As can be seen, the adjustable seat post 20 is mounted to a seat tube of the main frame 12. Here, while the cycle computer 44 is set in a seat post adjustment mode, one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 may be used to control the adjustable seat post 20 based on a switching program stored in the memory of the cycle computer 44.

Essentially, the adjustable seat post 20 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 1050, a movable member 1052 (e.g., a valve), an electric actuator unit 1054, and a wireless communication unit 1056. Here, the adjustable seat post 20 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 1058 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 1054 to the bicycle frame 12.

In the case of the adjustable seat post 20, the support structure 1050 is partially defined by the electrical actuator unit 1054 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1056. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1056 includes a first housing 1060 forming a first portion of the support structure 1050 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 456 and the electrical actuator unit 1054 includes a second housing 1062 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 462.

Here, the electric actuator unit 1054 and the wireless communication unit 1056 are detachably coupled to each other using a snap connection, which is the same as used with the front derailleur 440. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1056 is identical to the wireless communication units 456 and 956 described above. Thus, the wireless communication units 456, 956 and 1056 are interchangeable.

Now 34 and 35 Turning to FIG. 1, the adjustable seat post 20' will now be described according to a modification of the adjustable seat post 20. Essentially, the adjustable seat post 20' (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 1050', a movable member 1052' (e.g., a valve), an electric actuator unit 1054', and a wireless communication unit 1056'. Here, the adjustable seat post 20' (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 1058' configured to mount the electric actuator unit 1054' to the bicycle frame 12.

In the case of the adjustable seat post 20, the support structure 1050' is partially defined by the electrical actuator unit 1054' and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1056'. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1056' includes a first housing 1060' forming a first portion of the support structure 1050' in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 656, and the electrical actuator unit 1054' includes a second housing 1062' in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 656.

Here, the electrical actuation unit 1054' and the wireless communication unit 1056' are detachably coupled to each other using a hinge cover 1071'. Here, the hinge cover 1071' is hingedly mounted to the second housing 1062' between a first position and an open position. The hinge cover 1071' is provided with a latch which engages with a catch of the second housing 1062' such that the pivot cover 1071' is held in the closed position by a snap connection. The rear derailleur 42' utilizes the pivot cover 1071' as used with the front derailleur 640. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1056' is identical to the wireless communication units 656 and 956' described above. Thus, the wireless communication units 656, 956' and 1056' are interchangeable.

Now 1 , 36 and 37 Turning to FIG. 1, the rear shock absorber 18 will now be described according to the first embodiment. As in 1 , the rear shock absorber 18 is mounted between the main frame 12 and the rear swing arm 16. Here, while the cycle computer 44 is set in a suspension adjustment mode, one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 may be used to control the rear shock absorber 18 based on a switching program stored in the memory of the cycle computer 44.

Essentially, the rear shock absorber 18 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 1150, a movable member 1152 (e.g., a valve), an electric actuator unit 1154, and a wireless communication unit 1156. Here, the rear shock absorber 18 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 1158 configured to mount the electric actuator unit 1154 to the bicycle frame 12.

In the case of the rear shock absorber 18, the support structure 1150 is partially defined by the electrical actuator unit 1154 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1156. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1156 includes a first housing 1160 forming a first portion of the support structure 1150 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 1156, and the electrical actuator unit 1154 includes a second housing 1162 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 1156.

Here, the electric actuator unit 1154 and the wireless communication unit 1156 are detachably coupled to each other using a snap connection, which is the same as used with the front derailleur 440. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1156 is identical to the wireless communication units 456, 956, and 1056 described above. Thus, the wireless communication units 456, 956, 1056, and 1156 are interchangeable.

Now 38 and 39 Turning to FIG. 11, the rear shock absorber 18' will now be described according to a modification of the rear shock absorber 18. Essentially, the rear shock absorber 18' (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 1150', a movable member 1152' (e.g., a valve), an electric actuator unit 1154', and a wireless communication unit 1156'. Here, the rear shock absorber 18' (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 1158' configured to mount the electric actuator unit 1154' to the chassis 12.

In the case of the rear shock absorber 18, the support structure 1150' is partially defined by the electrical actuator unit 1154' and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1156'. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1156' includes a first housing 1160' forming a first portion of the support structure 1150' in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 656, and the electrical actuator unit 1154' includes a second housing 1162 in the same manner as the wireless communication unit 656.

Here, the electric actuator unit 1154' and the wireless communication unit 1156' are releasably coupled to each other using a hinge cover 1171'. Here, the hinge cover 1171' is hingedly mounted to the second housing 1162' between a first position and an open position. The hinge cover 1171' is provided with a latch which engages with a catch of the second housing 1162' so that the hinge cover 1171' is held in the closed position by a snap connection. The rear derailleur 42' uses the hinge cover 1071' as used with the front derailleur 640. In fact, the wireless communication unit 1056' is identical to the wireless communication units 656, 956' and 1156' described above. Accordingly, the wireless communication units 656, 956', 1056' and 1156' are interchangeable.

Now 40 to 49 Turning to FIG. 12, a front derailleur 1240 will be described according to another embodiment. The front derailleur 1240 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 in place of the front derailleur 40 to be actuated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. The front derailleur 1240 may receive control signals from one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 either wirelessly or using power line communication. The basic operation The front derailleur 1240 is essentially identical to the front derailleur 40.

The front derailleur 1240 is substantially identical to the front derailleur 40 except that the power supply connection structure has been modified and the wireless communication unit mounting structure has been modified. Given the similarities between the front derailleur 40 and 1240, the structure of the front derailleur 1240, which is substantially identical to the corresponding structure of the front derailleur 40, will not be described here for the sake of brevity.

Basically, the front derailleur 1240 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 1250, a movable member 1252, an electric actuator unit 1254, and a wireless communication unit 1256. The guide member 1252 is operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 1254 for moving the movable member 1252 between a first (retracted) position and a second (extended) position through a linkage 1257. Here, the front derailleur 1240 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 1258 configured to support the electric actuator unit 1254 with respect to the bicycle frame 12. Alternatively, the electric actuator unit 1254 may be directly mounted to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 1252 includes a . Chain guide 1252a which is operatively coupled to the electrical actuator unit 1254 for moving the chain guide 1252a between a first position and a second position similar to the first embodiment as described above. Accordingly, the base member 1258 is configured to support the chain guide 1252a with respect to the bicycle frame 12.

In this embodiment, as shown in 40 to 42 , the electrical cable (power supply line) PLC can either be directly connected to (ie plugged into) the electrical actuation unit 1254 (see 42 ) or be directly connected to (ie plugged into) the wireless communication unit 1256 (see 40 ). In particular, the electrical cable (power supply line) PLC has a first end detachably connected to the electrical actuator unit 1254 for supplying electrical power from the power supply unit (e.g., the power supply unit 38 of 1 ). Similar to the first embodiment, the electrical cable PLC has a second end detachably connected to a wiring node (not shown) for receiving electrical power and/or control signals via power line communications. When the wireless communication unit 1256 is installed on the front derailleur 1240 and wirelessly receives control signals from one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48, the electrical cable PLC may be used to supply only electrical power to the electrical actuator unit 1254. However, when the wireless communication unit 1256 is not installed or not used, the electrical cable PLC1 may be used to transmit control signals from one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 to the electrical actuator unit 1254 using power line communications. However, even when the wireless communication unit 1256 is installed on the front derailleur 1240, the electric cable PLC may be used to supply electric power to the electric actuator unit 1254 and to transmit control signals from one or both of the first and second electric component actuators 46 and 48. In such a case, the wireless communication unit 1256 may be used for wireless communication with other devices, such as a smartphone or a personal computer, for updating the firmware stored in a memory disposed in at least one of the electric bicycle components, for example.

In the case of the front derailleur 1240, the support structure 1250 is defined in part by the electrical actuator unit 1254 and by the electrical actuator unit 1254 and. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes a first housing 1260. The electrical actuator unit 1254 includes a second housing 1262. The second housing 1262 is different from the first housing 1260 (i.e., the first and second housings 1260 and 62 are separate and distinct members). The support structure 1250 is disposed on at least one of the first housing 1260 and the second housing 1262. Here, the support structure 1250 includes a mating portion 1250a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 1262. The support structure 1250 includes a space 1250b formed by the second housing 1262 of the electric actuator unit 1254, within which the mating portion 1250a of the first housing 1260 is to be supported.

Referring to 45 to 49 , the wireless communication unit 1256 includes an electrical connector 1264 which is designed to be plugged into the second housing 1262 from the electrical actuating unit 1254. Here, the electrical connector 1264 is an electrical electrical female connector, such as an SD50 female electrical connector. The wireless communication unit 1256 further includes a wireless communication member 1266 contained within the first housing 1260. The electrical connector 1264 is electrically connected to the wireless communication member 1266. The wireless communication member 1266 includes a circuit board with a two-way wireless communication circuit printed thereon. Preferably, the circuit board of the wireless communication unit 1266 includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

As in 46 to 47 As can be seen, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes at least one electrical connector 1268 which is configured to connect to the electrical cable PLC (see 42 ). Here, the electrical connector 1268 is a male electrical receptacle connector or connector, such as an SD50 male electrical receptacle connector. In this way, the wireless communication unit 1256 can receive electrical power from the power supply unit (e.g., the power supply unit 38 of 1 ).

As in 42 to 44 As can be seen, the electrical actuation unit 1254 includes at least one electrical terminal 1270 configured to be connected to the electrical connector 1264 of the wireless communication unit 1256. The electrical terminal 1270 is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical connector 1264 in a state in which the first housing 1260 is disposed in the space 1250b. Here, the electrical terminal 1270 is a male receptacle electrical connector or terminal, such as an SD50 male receptacle electrical connector. Thus, in this embodiment, the electrical connector 1264 matingly connects to the electrical port 1270 to establish an electrical connection between the electrical actuator unit 1254 and the wireless communication unit 1256. Also, this mating connection between the electrical actuator unit 1254 and the wireless communication unit 1256 holds the wireless communication unit 1256 to the electrical actuator unit 1254.

The at least one electrical port 1270 of the electrical actuation unit 1254 is configured to selectively connect to the electrical cable PLC upon disconnection of the electrical connector 1264 of the wireless communication unit 1256 from the at least one electrical port 1270 of the electrical actuation unit 1254.

As in 40 , 42 and 46 As can be seen, the electrical connector 1264 of the wireless communication unit 1256 is configured to connect to the electrical terminal 1270 of the electrical actuation unit 1254 in a first connection direction D1, and the electrical terminal 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256 is configured to connect to the electrical cable PLC in a second connection direction D2, which is different from the first connection direction D1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first guide direction D1 is perpendicular to the second connection direction D2. The at least one electrical terminal of the electrical actuation unit 1254 and the at least one electrical terminal 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256 have identical electrical connector counter structures. In this way, the electrical cable PLC can be selectively plugged into either the electrical port of the electrical actuator unit 1254 or the electrical port 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256. While in this illustrated embodiment the electrical cable PLC is plugged into the electrical port 1268 of the wireless communication unit 1256, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the electrical cable PLC can be directly wired to the wireless communication member 1266 in the first housing 1260 of the wireless communication unit 1256. In other words, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes at least one of an electrical port and an electrical cable disposed on the first housing 1260. Here, in this illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication unit 1256 includes a cap 1271 removably coupled to the first housing 1260 for selective Covering the at least one electrical terminal 1268 (i.e., the SD50 male electrical receptacle connector) disposed on the first housing 1260. In this way, the SD50 male electrical receptacle connector can be covered to be waterproof and dustproof when the electrical cable PLC1 is not plugged into the electrical terminal 1268.

As in 44 As can be seen, the electric actuator unit 1254 includes an electric actuator 1280 and a gear reduction unit 1282 contained in the second housing 1262. The electric actuator 1280 is electrically connected to the circuit board (not shown) which has the same functions as the circuit board 74 of the first embodiment. In the case of the front derailleur 1240, the electric actuator unit 1254 is a reversible electric motor. The electric actuator 1280 is designed to actuate the movable member 1252 in the same manner as in the first embodiment. th embodiment. A position sensor (not shown) is provided on the gear reduction unit 1282 for detecting an amount of rotational motion output from the gear reduction unit 1282. The circuit board of the electric actuator unit 1254 is provided with an actuator driver (not shown) for controlling the electric actuator 1280 and a position detection circuit (not shown) for determining the amount of rotational motion output from the gear reduction unit 1282. Position sensors, actuator drivers (actuator motor drivers), and position detection circuits are well known in the field of bicycles and thus will not be described in detail here.

Now 50 to 56 Turning now to FIG. 13, a rear derailleur 1342 will be described according to another embodiment. The rear derailleur 1342 may be mounted to the bicycle frame 12 in place of the rear derailleur 42 to be actuated by one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48. The rear derailleur 1342 may receive control signals from one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 either wirelessly or using power line communication. The basic operation of the rear derailleur 1342 is identical to the front derailleur 40.

The rear derailleur 1342 is substantially identical to the front derailleur 40 except that the power supply connection structure has been modified and the wireless communication unit mounting structure has been modified. Given the similarities between the rear derailleur 42 and 1342, the structure of the rear derailleur 1342, which is substantially identical to the corresponding structure of the rear derailleur 42, will not be described here for the sake of brevity.

Essentially, the rear derailleur 1342 (the electric bicycle component) includes a support structure 1350, a movable member 1352, an electric actuator unit 1354, and a wireless communication unit 1356. The movable member 1352 is operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 1354 for moving the movable member 1352 between a first (retracted) position and a second (extended) position through a linkage 1357. Here, the rear derailleur 1342 (the electric bicycle component) further includes a base member 1358 configured to support the electric actuator unit 1354 with respect to the bicycle frame 12. Also, the movable member 1352 includes a chain guide 1352a operatively coupled to the electric actuator unit 1354 for moving the chain guide 1352a between the first position and the second position similar to the rear derailleur 42 as described above. Accordingly, the base member 1358 is configured to support the chain guide 1352a with respect to the bicycle frame 12.

In this embodiment, similar to the front derailleur 1240, the electric cable (power supply line) PLC may either be directly connected to (i.e., plugged into) the electric actuator unit 1354, or directly connected to (i.e., plugged into) the wireless communication unit 1356 (see 50 ). In particular, the electric cable (power supply line) PLC has a first end detachably connected to the electric actuator unit 1354 for supplying electric power from the power supply unit (e.g., the power supply unit 38 of 1 ). Similar to the rear derailleur 42, the electrical cable PLC has a second end removably connected to a wiring node (not shown) for receiving electrical power and/or control signals via power line communications. When the wireless communication unit 1356 is installed on the rear derailleur 1342 and wirelessly receives control signals from one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48, the electrical cable PLC may be used to supply only electrical power to the electrical actuator unit 1354. However, when the wireless communication unit 1356 is not installed or not used, the electrical cable PLC may be used to transmit control signals from one or both of the first and second electrical component actuators 46 and 48 to the electrical actuator unit 1354 using power line communications. However, even when the wireless communication unit 1356 is installed on the rear derailleur 1342, the electric cable PLC may be used to supply electric power to the electric actuator unit 1354 and to transmit control signals from one or both of the first and second electric component actuators 46 and 48. In such a case, the wireless communication unit 1356 may be used for wireless communication with other devices, such as a smartphone or a personal computer, for updating the firmware stored in a memory disposed in at least one of the electric bicycle components, for example.

In the case of the rear derailleur 1342, the support structure 1350 is partially defined by the electric actuator unit 1354 and partially defined by the wireless communication unit 1356. In particular, the wireless communication unit 1356 includes a first housing 1360. The electric actuator unit 1354 includes a second housing 1362. Here, the support structure 1350 includes a mating portion 1350a (projecting portion) for engaging with the second housing 1362. The support structure 1350 includes a space 1350b formed by the second housing 1362 of the electric actuator unit 1354, within which the mating portion 1350a of the first housing 1360 is to be supported. The first housing 1360 further includes a spring hook 1361 which helps in supporting and holding the first housing 1360 to the second housing 1362. Thus, the spring hook 1361 is a part of the support structure 1350. Here, the spring hook 1361 engages with an edge or notch of the second housing 1362 by means of a snap connection during insertion of the mating portion 1350a (projecting portion) into the space 1350b of the second housing 1362.

Referring to 53 to 56 , the wireless communication unit 1356 includes an electrical connector 1364 configured to be plugged into the second housing 1362 from the electrical actuator unit 1354. Here, the electrical connector 1364 is a female electrical connector, such as an SD50 female electrical connector. Similar to the case of the wireless communication unit 1356 described above, the wireless communication unit 1356 further includes a wireless communication member contained in the first housing 1360. The electrical connector 1364 is electrically connected to the wireless communication member. The wireless communication member includes a circuit board with a two-way wireless communication circuit printed thereon. Preferably, the circuit board of the wireless communication unit includes an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals.

As in 56 As can be seen, the wireless communication unit 1356 includes at least one electrical connector 1368 which is configured to connect to the electrical cable PLC (see 51 ). Here, the electrical connector 1368 is a male electrical receptacle connector or connector, such as an SD50 male electrical receptacle connector. In this way, the wireless communication unit 1356 can receive electrical power from the power supply unit (e.g., the power supply unit 38 of 1 ).

As in 52 As can be seen, the electrical actuation unit 1354 includes at least one electrical terminal 1370 configured to be connected to the electrical connector 1364 of the wireless communication unit 1356. The electrical terminal 1370 is configured to be electrically connected to the electrical connector 1364 in a state in which the first housing 1360 is disposed in the space 1350b. Here, the electrical terminal 1370 is a male electrical connector such as an SD50 male electrical connector. Thus, in this embodiment, the electrical connector 1364 matingly connects to the electrical port 1370 to establish an electrical connection between the electrical actuation unit 1354 and the wireless communication unit 1356. Also, this mating connection between the electrical actuation unit 1354 and the wireless communication unit 1356 holds the wireless communication unit 1356 to the electrical actuation unit 1354:

The electrical connector 1370 of the electrical actuator unit 1354 is configured to selectively connect to the electrical cable PLC as a result of decoupling the electrical connector 1364 of the wireless communication unit 1356 from the electrical connector 1370 of the electrical actuator unit 1354. In this manner, the electrical cable PLC can be selectively plugged into either the electrical connector 1370 of the electrical actuator unit 1354 or the electrical connector 1368 of the wireless communication unit 1356. While in this illustrated embodiment the electrical cable PLC is plugged into the electrical connector 1368 of the wireless communication unit 1356, it will be apparent from this disclosure that the electrical cable PLC can be directly wired to the wireless communication member in the first housing 1360 of the wireless communication unit 1356. In other words, the Wireless communication unit 1356 includes at least one of the electrical connector 1368 and the electrical cable, which is arranged on the first housing 1360.

While only selected embodiments are illustrated for a front derailleur, an adjustable seat post, and a bicycle suspension, it will be apparent from the disclosure that features of each of the illustrated embodiments and the illustrated changes may be adapted to any of a front derailleur, a rear derailleur, an adjustable seat post, and a bicycle suspension. While a front suspension assembly is not compatible with the detachable wireless communication unit of the present invention, it will be apparent from the disclosure that any of the illustrated embodiments and modifications may be adapted for a front suspension fork.

The term "wireless communication device" as used herein includes a transceiver or a transceiver and contemplates any devices, separately or in combination, capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals, including switching signals or control, command or other signals relating to functions of the controlled component.

In understanding the scope of the present invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of recited features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unnamed features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having a similar meaning, such as the terms "including," "having," and their derivatives.

As used herein, the following directional terms "forward," "backward" ... "front," "rear," "upward," "downward," "above" ... "below," "lateral," "transverse," and "horizontal," and any other similar directional terms refer to such directions of a bicycle in an upright riding position equipped with the bicycle component operating apparatus. In a similar manner, these directional terms, as used to describe the bicycle component operating apparatus, are to be understood with respect to a bicycle in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface equipped with the bicycle component operating apparatus. The terms "left" and "right" are used to refer to the right side of a bicycle when viewed from the rear end of the bicycle and the left side when viewed from the rear end of the bicycle.

It will also be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used here to describe various components, these components are not to be considered limited thereby. The terms serve solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component as described above could therefore also be referred to as a second component, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the terms "attached" or "attaching" as used herein include embodiments in which one element is directly attached to another element by means of an attaching element directly on the other element; embodiments in which the element is attached to the other element in an indirect manner by means of an intermediary member(s); and embodiments in which one element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is substantially a part of the other element. This concept also applies to words of similar meaning such as "connected," "coupled," "mounted," "bonded," "fixed," and their derivatives. Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately," as used herein, mean a proportionate degree of departure from the modified term such that the end result is not substantially changed.

While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the bicycle art from the present disclosure that numerous changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and/or desired, so long as the change does not substantially affect the intended effects and functions. Components which have been shown as directly connected or touching each other may have intermediate structures between them, so long as the change does not substantially affect their intended functions and effects. The functions of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment may be adopted in other embodiments. It is not necessary that all advantages be present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Any feature which is unique with respect to the prior art may, alone or in combination with other features, be considered a separate description of another invention by the applicant, including structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such features. The foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are therefore intended for purposes of illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (15)

An electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840), comprising: a wireless communication unit (56; 156; 256; 356; 456; 556; 656; 756; 856) configured to wirelessly receive a control signal; a movable member (52; 152; 252; 352; 452; 552; 652; 752; 852); a link (57) including a first link and a second link; and an electric actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) configured to actuate the movable member (52; 152; 252; 352; 452; 552; 652; 752; 852) according to the control signal, the electric actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) including an electric actuator (80) having an output shaft extending downward in a state in which the electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) is mounted on a bicycle (1), wherein the electric actuator unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) includes a gear reduction unit (82) having a gear rotatable about an axis of rotation which is parallel and offset from an axis of rotation of the output shaft of the electric actuator (80); wherein the electrical actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) comprises an electrical connection (76; 176; 276; 376; 476; 576; 676; 776; 876) configured to be detachably connected to an electrical cable (PLC1; PLC2) in order to supply the electrical actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) with electrical energy. Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 1 , in which the gear reduction unit (82) is connected to the electric actuator (80) and transmits the rotational movement of the output shaft of the electric actuator (80) to the movable member (52; 152; 252; 352; 452; 552; 652; 752; 852), the electric actuator (80) has a housing from which the output shaft extends, and the gear reduction unit (82) is configured to be arranged downward with respect to the housing in the state in which the electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) is mounted on the bicycle (1). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 1 or 2 , in which at least one part of a printed circuit board (74) is designed to be arranged adjacent to the electrical actuator (80). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , in which the electrical actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) includes the electrical connector (76; 176; 276; 376; 476; 576; 676; 776; 876) which is electrically connected to a/the printed circuit board (74), and the electrical connector (76; 176; 276; 376; 476; 576; 676; 776; 876) is designed to be detachably connected to the electrical cable (PLC1; PLC2) to control the electrical actuating unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) with electrical energy. Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 4 , wherein at least a part of the electrical connection (76; 176; 276; 376; 476; 576; 676; 776; 876) is designed to be arranged forwardly with respect to the electrical actuator (80). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 4 or 5 , in which at least one part of the electrical connection (76; 176; 276; 376; 476; 576; 676; 776; 876) is designed such that it is arranged above in relation to the electrical actuator (80). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the Claims 4 until 6 , in which the electrical actuation unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) is designed to receive a control signal from the electrical cable (PLC1; PLC2) or the wireless communication unit (56; 156; 256; 356; 456; 556; 656; 756; 856). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the Claims 1 until 7 , wherein the wireless communication unit (56; 156; 256; 356; 456; 556; 656; 756; 856) includes a wireless communication link (66; 166; 266; 366; 666; 766; 866) having a two-way wireless communication circuit and an antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless signals. Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the Claims 1 until 8 , wherein the wireless communication unit (56; 156; 256; 356; 456; 556; 656; 756; 856) is configured to communicate wirelessly with at least one of a smartphone and a computer. Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the Claims 1 until 9 , further comprising a support structure (50; 150; 250; 350; 450; 550; 650; 750; 850) that releasably supports the wireless communication unit (56; 156; 256; 356; 456; 556; 656; 756; 856). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the Claims 1 until 10 , further comprising a base member (58; 158; 258; 358; 458; 558; 658; 758; 858) configured to support the electrical actuator unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854) with respect to the bicycle (1). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 11 , wherein the movable member (52; 152; 252; 352; 452; 552; 652; 752; 852) includes a chain guide (52a; 152a; 252a; 352a; 452a; 552a; 652a; 752a; 852a) and the base member (58; 158; 258; 358; 458; 558; 658; 752a; 858) is configured to support the chain guide (52a; 152a; 252a; 352a; 452a; 552a; 652a; 752a; 852a) with respect to the bicycle (1). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 1 or 2 , in which the electrical actuator (80) is electrically connected to a printed circuit board (74). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric actuator (80) is contained in a second housing (62; 162; 262; 362; 462; 562; 662; 762; 862) of the electric actuation unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854). Electric bicycle front derailleur (40; 140; 240; 340; 440; 540; 640; 740; 840) according to claim 14 , in which the gear reduction unit (82) is contained in the second housing (62; 162; 262; 362; 462; 562; 662; 762; 862) of the electrical actuation unit (54; 154; 254; 354; 454; 554; 654; 754; 854).

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