For Bicycle Patents (Class 340/432)
  • Patent number: 10712791
    Abstract: Techniques disclosed herein relate to exploiting photovoltaic effects to improve the thermal management capabilities for wearable electronic devices. In an exemplary embodiment, a wearable electronic device includes photovoltaic cells disposed over a housing assembly that encloses heat-emitting electronic components. The photovoltaic cells block solar radiation from reaching an exterior surface of the housing assembly—thereby reducing the solar gain thereof. Electrical energy that is generated by the photovoltaic cells is utilized in some manner that is determined to be currently appropriate based on various current-state factors of the wearable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Gavin D. Stanley, Sridhar Canumalla, Douglas L. Heirich, Sravan Kuman Reddy Gondipalli
  • Patent number: 10692408
    Abstract: The present invention is an electronic hub device that comprises a frame mounted on a pole structure of an object. The frame comprises one or more sensors configured to detect one or more events around the electronic hub device, and a plurality of light sources installed along a boundary of the frame configured to illuminate a portion of the frame within the boundary of the frame. A portion of frame includes promotional content selected based on user preferences. The frame further comprises a processor configured to activate plurality of light sources upon detection of one or more events. The present invention exists in an alternate embodiment in which a poster is used to display the desired promotional content of a user. The poster in this embodiment is either displayed through the use of rings or through being mounted onto a frame of the electronic hub device. This allows the promotional content to be changed as frequently as a user desires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventor: Melvin Johnson
  • Patent number: 10631587
    Abstract: A safety helmet for enhancing visibility to road users. The safety helmet has a plurality of lights which are operatively connected to a power supply; at least one motion sensor which detects a behavioural characteristic of the cyclist and provides input signals to a controller, the controller operates in accordance with an algorithm whereby the signals are processed to determine appropriate timing of activation of the lights, in dependence upon the behavioural characteristic detected; and wherein switching signals from the controller switch on the lights to indicate actual or intended direction of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventor: Anton Aran Bailey
  • Patent number: 10636389
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system which integrates unique lighting technologies, switching systems, mounting systems, information delivery systems and power supply systems within a support such as vehicular wheel to provide an advanced, high quality visual display apparatus in various surfaces of rotation. A displayed image may be three dimensional. These technologies, and their many unique applications, provide for a novel and useful series of video display devices that are small, lightweight, efficient and can have the capability of producing a clear, bright, high definition image that is equivalent to that of a modern day TV or high quality computer monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Assignee: Spin Screen, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark D. Gilbert, Paul Chen, Lawrence Moens
  • Patent number: 10624400
    Abstract: An improved safety helmet is a safety helmet for an emergency responder such as a policeman or a fireman that has a plurality of light emitting diodes that are able to flash in various combinations of sequences and in standard emergency light colors to make the emergency responder more visible to others in the vicinity. The safety helmet has a battery power source, a video camera, a transmitter, a receiver, a solar panel for charging the battery, and a thermal imaging scope formed into the safety helmet. There may also be a USB port and cable for recording and downloading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2020
    Inventor: Alvin Shrouder
  • Patent number: 10604202
    Abstract: The invention is directed to illuminated footboards for a motorcycle. Two pairs of footboards are provided: front footboards for the operator, and rear footboards for a passenger. Both pairs of footboards provide a row of sequentially brightening yellow light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the side surfaces, which function as turn signals. The front footboards provide white light emitting diodes (LEDs) on the front surfaces similar to vehicle headlights, and the rear footboards provide brightening red LEDs on the rear surfaces which function as brake lights. Alternately, illuminated footpegs may provide single yellow LEDs on the ends as turn signals, and white LEDs on the front surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Inventor: John Darren Gresty
  • Patent number: 10589822
    Abstract: A wireless control system for a bicycle may include a base part attachable to a bicycle and a movable part. The control system may also include an electric motor disposed on the electromechanical component and a control unit disposed on the electromechanical component for operating the electric motor to operate the electromechanical component, the control unit including a wireless receiver. The control system includes a wake sensor connected to the control unit, the wake sensor configured to communicate a wake signal to the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Jordan, Todd Squires
  • Patent number: 10538288
    Abstract: A rotation calculating device comprising: a first rotating device; a first target device; an first optical characteristic acquiring device, configured to acquire optical characteristics for at least one feature of the first target device; and a calculating unit, configured to calculate rotation for the first rotating device based on the optical characteristics of the feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: PixArt Imaging Inc.
    Inventors: Chung-Ting Yang, Yen-Min Chang, Ching-Lin Chung
  • Patent number: 10493975
    Abstract: A bicycle electric system comprises a first electric component, a second electric component, and a second controller. The first electric component includes a first controller and a sensor. The first controller is configured to control an operating status of the first electric component based on an output of the sensor. The second electric component is different from the first electric component. At least one of the first electric component and the second electric component includes an electric suspension. The second controller is configured to control an operating status of the second electric component based on the output of the sensor of the first electric component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventors: Atsushi Komatsu, Yuta Kurokawa, Shingo Sakurai
  • Patent number: 10450021
    Abstract: An anti-theft lock for bicycles and other vehicles powered by a person, which lock can be switched over from a locking state into a move state, containing means for tamper-proof attachment of the lock to the vehicle, and a control unit for switching over the lock from the locking state into the move state, and vice versa, is characterized in that the control unit has a receiver for signals of an associated mobile transmitter which are transmitted in a wireless fashion and means for determining the distance of said control unit from the mobile transmitter; the control unit switches over the lock into the locking state if the distance exceeds a threshold value and the vehicle is simultaneously not travelling; and the control unit switches over the lock into the move state if the distance undershoots a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: Haveltec GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Anuth, Markus Weintraut, Christian Werner
  • Patent number: 10445962
    Abstract: A modular vehicle system is provided, comprising an electric vehicle, particularly a light electric vehicle, with at least a control device; an on-board power supply system for energy supply of an electric drive unit; an interface, connected to the on-board power supply system for connection of at least one module; and first locking means arranged at the interface. The modular vehicle system further comprising a module, with a module control, configured to communicate with the control device; an electric arrangement; a connecting element, separably connectable to the interface, for connection of the electric arrangement with the on-board power supply system; and second locking means arranged at the connecting element, formed for engagement with the first locking means, wherein at least one of the locking means is movable between a free position and a locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: ENERGYBUS E.V.
    Inventor: Hannes Neupert
  • Patent number: 10392078
    Abstract: A wireless control system for a bicycle may include a base part attachable to a bicycle and a movable part. The control system may also include an electric motor disposed on the electromechanical component and a control unit disposed on the electromechanical component for operating the electric motor to operate the electromechanical component, the control unit including a wireless receiver. The control system includes a wake sensor connected to the control unit, the wake sensor configured to cause the control unit and the wireless receiver to become operational in response to detected vibrations of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Jordan, Todd Squires
  • Patent number: 10398045
    Abstract: A portable communication or computing device with security against theft, includes a PC mounted security slot which is accessible through an outer wall via an access opening therein. The security slot is defined in a rigid material which is either soldered with pins or connected with screws to a printed circuit board or the like inside the portable device. The security system includes a detector for detecting any instance of the cable of the lock associated with the security slot having been cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Inventor: Meir Avganim
  • Patent number: 10392066
    Abstract: A straddle vehicle which turns in a bank state in which a vehicle body is rotated around an axis extending in a vehicle length direction, includes a head lamp unit which is disposed at a front portion of the straddle vehicle and emits a light beam with which a forward region of the vehicle body is irradiated; a cornering lamp unit which is disposed at the front portion of the straddle vehicle, provided separately from the head lamp unit, and turned on in the bank state; and a duct member included in an engine air-intake system, wherein the cornering lamp unit is disposed below the head lamp unit and below an air-intake inlet of the duct member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Taro Iwamoto, Tomo Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 10363862
    Abstract: An advanced warning light system of the present disclosure has a controller area network (CAN) bus for transmitting messages and at least one controller that monitors operations of a motorcycle, the at least one controller further transmits a message on the CAN bus when a monitored operation occurs on the motorcycle, the message having data indicating that the vehicle is slowing down. The system further has a processor that receives the message from the CAN bus indicating that the vehicle is slowing down, the processor further illuminates an advanced warning light on a back of a helmet being worn by a rider to indicate to a driver following the motorcycle that the motorcycle is slowing down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2019
    Assignee: Kinney ASWD Holding Company, LLC
    Inventor: Gary Wayne Kinney
  • Patent number: 10351194
    Abstract: Disclosed is an illumination device for use with spoked tires, such as the common tires found on bicycles. The illumination device may comprise a power source which is removably attached to the hub portion by a holder, said holder comprising a strap portion, a hook portion, a handle portion, and a pocket portion; where the strap portion is wrapped around a circumference of the hub portion, and there are a plurality of wires extending from the power source where the wires contain a plurality of light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Brightz, ltd.
    Inventor: Ronald Finch
  • Patent number: 10339619
    Abstract: A smart tracking device, such as a cellular M2M device, is attached to a plastic pallet for monitoring, recording and reporting the location, condition and manifest record of the pallet as it moves through a supply chain for shipment of products from a manufacturer to a consumer. The cellular M2M device has a subscriber identification module (SIM) to uniquely identify the pallet with which it is associated in a cellular network. The M2M device receives and transmits data about the products on the pallet, as the pallet moves through the supply chain. Actionable data allows supply chain managers to mitigate risks and losses in the supply chain. The supply chain data is also used to provide an electronic supply chain pedigree for a product shipped on the pallet. The product supply chain pedigree is made available to a consumer in a structured format, in order to influence the consumer's purchasing decisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Inventor: Scott Arthur William Muirhead
  • Patent number: 10293880
    Abstract: A bicycle suspension control apparatus includes a user operating device and a controller. The controller is operatively coupled to the user operating device to selectively control a pair of bicycle suspensions between a plurality of operating states. The controller selectively changes the operating states of both of the suspensions to different ones of the operating states in response to a single operation of the user operating device. The controller includes a receiving part, a storage part and a control part. The receiving part receives combination information indicating at least one combination of the operating states from among combinations of the operating states of the suspensions. The storage part stores the combination information received by the receiving part. The control part controls the suspensions based on the combination information stored in the storage part when the user operating device is operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Tadashi Ichida, Hideki Ikemoto, Toyoto Shirai
  • Patent number: 10203095
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a helmet with hidden light sources includes: fixing a helmet housing with at least one light transmitting portion to a base mold; providing a light source protector and a light source belt, and fixing the light source protector to the light source belt, wherein the light source belt comprises a circuit board and a plurality of light sources mounted on, wherein the light source protector comprises a plurality of accommodating holes corresponding to the light sources one by one, and the light sources each are received in a corresponding accommodating hole and enclosed by the light source protector and the circuit board; aligning the light sources to the light transmitting portion and fixing the light source protector to an inner surface of the helmet housing; and injecting a buffer material into the base mold to form a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: SHENZHEN QIANHAI LIVALL IOT TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yong-Zheng Ye, Bo Zheng, Zhi-Ming Li
  • Patent number: 10137328
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a stationary exercise bike along with a display that provides instruction to lead a rider through an exercise program. The invention allows a rider to obtain benefits of a group, instructor-led class though the rider's schedule does not permit the rider to participate in the class. The invention also describes a method of exercising with the foregoing bike and display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Mad Dogg Athletics, Inc.
    Inventor: John Baudhuin
  • Patent number: 10093391
    Abstract: The invention provides a wireless control system for a bicycle, including at least one actuator having at least a pressed state and a released state, and a control unit configured to generate a first control signal responsive to the pressed state and a second control signal responsive to the released state, and to transmit the first control signal and the second control signal to at least one bicycle component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: SRAM, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Jordan, Todd Squires
  • Patent number: 10078139
    Abstract: A helmet for tracking compliance information associated with a rider is disclosed. The helmet comprising a Global Positioning System (GPS) configured to trace a complete path covered by the rider. Further, the helmet comprises a set of biometric sensor configured to capture biometric sample of the rider at regular intervals, when the rider is in motion. Furthermore, the helmet comprises a data processing platform. The data processing platform maintains a database configured to store a profile data of the rider such as biometric information and identity profile of the rider. The data processing platform enables a biometric data analysis module configured to classify the complete path into a compliant path and a non-compliant path by analyzing the biometric information and biometric samples captured from the rider. Further, the data processing platform enables a data transmission module to transmit the compliant path and the non compliant path to a remote server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: HCL TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventor: Jasbir Singh Dhaliwal
  • Patent number: 10065652
    Abstract: A method and system for driver monitoring by fusing contextual data with event data to determine context as cause of event is provided. The method includes detecting an event from event data received from one or more inertial sensors associated with a vehicle of a driver or with the driver. The method also includes determining a context from an audio or video feed received from one or more devices associated with the vehicle or the driver. Further, the method includes fusing the event with the context to determine the context as a cause of the event. In addition, the method includes assigning a score to a driver performance metric based at least on the context and the event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: Lightmetrics Technologies PVT. LTD.
    Inventors: Ravi Shenoy, Krishna A G, Gururaj Putraya, Soumik Ukil, Mithun Uliyar, Pushkar Patwardhan
  • Patent number: 10047681
    Abstract: A method for detecting and controlling a load weight of a vehicle by means of a tire pressure of the vehicle and a device are provided. The method includes the steps of installation setting, detecting the load weight, and controlling an electric switch. The device includes tire pressure detectors installed on rear wheels of the vehicle and connected with a processor which is input with a preset tire pressure value and able to receive the tire pressure detected by the tire pressure detectors. The processor is connected with an electric switch of the vehicle. The processor compares the tire pressure detected by the tire pressure detectors with the preset tire pressure value, and controls the electric switch to turn on/off a power source of the vehicle. The device is capable of detecting and controlling the load weight of the vehicle by detecting a change of the tire pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Inventor: Fang-Jun Chai
  • Patent number: 10024527
    Abstract: A lighting device including one or more emitters configured to emit a first spectrum and a second spectrum; a switching mechanism with at least two switching elements configured to change an emitted light from a first spectrum to a second spectrum, and to change a blink pattern of emitted light; a feedback mechanism configured to provide tactile feedback when the illumination device is activated or deactivated, or when a mode of operation is changed; a translucent unitary housing extending substantially upward and inward from a base of the device; and a power source received in the housing. The first spectrum may be a non-visible light spectrum and the second spectrum may be visible light spectrum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: S&S Precision, LLC
    Inventors: Johnny E. Swan, Andrew C. Borland
  • Patent number: 9908227
    Abstract: A quick disconnect storage compartment for handheld devices disclosed herein. The storage compartments incorporated into the handle of the handheld device so that objects stored within the handle are concealed and not noticeable to others. The quick disconnect feature requires that the user depress two buttons on opposite sides of each other so that a cover or endcap that covers an opening of the handle for accessing the object within the handle does not inadvertently become dislodged but requires that the user intentionally and actively depress the buttons with opposing forces with his or her fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: NUNCHUCK GRIPS, LLC
    Inventor: Mike Tysong Yin
  • Patent number: 9771017
    Abstract: An electric toy vehicle according to the present disclosure comprises an illuminated handlebar including a hollow tube having a first end and a second end. The illuminated handlebar also includes a light disposed within the hollow tube and between the first end and the second end of the tube and a switch electrically coupled to the light and disposed at one of the first end and the second end of the hollow tube. The toy vehicle further includes a motor electrically coupled to the switch and a battery electrically coupled to the motor, the light and the switch. The light is visible within the hollow tube when the switch is activated and the motor powers the electric toy vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: DYNACRAFT BSC, INC.
    Inventors: Bill Talios, John Bisges, David Castrucci
  • Patent number: 9722355
    Abstract: A power adapter is provided for a computer including a power port and a housing defining an aperture. The power adapter includes a power head, a lock head disposed on the power head and a main housing including a body affixed to a security element, wiring for supplying power to the computer extending through the body to the power head and a lock system selectively actuatable with a key to orient the lock head in first and second orientations. The first orientation is characterized in that the power head is movable relative to the aperture for power head insertion into and removal from the power port. The second orientation is characterized in that the power head is immovable relative to the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Xingquan Dong, Zhao Lin, Licen Mu, Qiuyi Yu, Weifeng Zhang
  • Patent number: 9694811
    Abstract: An intelligent intervention method based on an integrated tire pressure monitoring system includes monitoring a tire pressure and a tire temperature of a vehicle, and monitoring, a wheel speed of the vehicle; transmitting the tire pressure, the tire temperature and the wheel speed to a host; judging in real time whether the vehicle is in a normal status or in an abnormal status, via integrating the tire pressure, the tire temperature and the wheel speed; producing a deviation signal, when the tire pressure, the tire temperature and the wheel speed deviate from normal thresholds and transmitting the deviation signal to an intelligent intervention system; and performing intelligent intervention to slow down the vehicle in a straight line until the vehicle stops, when the deviation signal is received. The method enables the vehicle to run safely until stopping even in case of tire blowout, so as to prevent rollover or collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Inventor: Yanping Lai
  • Patent number: 9684911
    Abstract: Described herein is, inter alia, a method and a device for providing a number of rental vehicles at a station, determining at least one of a number of rental vehicles available at the station and a number of vehicle-receiving spaces available at the station, and sending the at least one of a number of rental vehicles available at the station and a number of vehicle-receiving space available at the station to a user. A distance and historical use of stations are also considered to suggest preferred stations and provide incentives associated therewith. A graphical user interface and a systems adapted to carry the method are also provided hereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Inventor: Mathieu Audet
  • Patent number: 9630459
    Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring a tire pressure of a vehicle includes a cornering force estimator configured to estimate a cornering force of a tire using inertial information and steering information of the vehicle, a pneumatic trail calculator configured to calculate a pneumatic trail using the cornering force and the steering information, and a tire pressure checker configured to determine whether the tire pressure is insufficient based on the pneumatic trail calculated by the pneumatic trail calculator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Moo Ryong Choi
  • Patent number: 9629273
    Abstract: A display device includes a supporting member, and a display member detachably joined to the supporting member. The display member includes a first case 20, first connecting terminals 23, and a first joint surface 31. The supporting member includes a second case 36, second connecting terminals 38, and a second joint surface 40. The first case 20 has a terminal mounting hole 42 formed. The first connecting terminal 23 is inserted into the terminal mounting hole 42. The first case 20 has a first seal member 47 that seals a gap between the first connecting terminal 23 and the terminal mounting hole 42. The distal end of the first seal member 47 is exposed on the first joint surface 31, comes into contact with the second joint surface 40, and surrounds the distal ends of the first and second connecting terminals 23 and 38 to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignees: PANASONIC CORPORATION, HOSIDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mitsuru Ogawa, Naoki Jinde, Hideaki Taketsu, Masaharu Mikawa
  • Patent number: 9610996
    Abstract: A bicycle includes a frame and a seat post removably engaged with the frame. A light source is supported by the seat post. A power source is supported by the seat post. A switch is disposed between the light source and the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: James Neugebauer, Torsten Gerhardt, Bruce Southey, Simon Potticary, James Lloyd, Richard Craven, Jonathan Mundy
  • Patent number: 9603403
    Abstract: A motorcycle helmet indicator assembly is provided that includes a passive and active illumination means. The assembly is either built-into or is an attachable assembly for a motorcycle helmet, wherein a short range wireless protocol is utilized to synchronize the motorcycle brake lights and turn signals with two indicators along secured along the rear of the motorcycle helmet. Each of the indicator bezels is surrounded by a passive reflector surface, wherein the helmet is visible in low light whether the motorcycle indicators are energized or not. This promotes visualizing motorcyclist in traffic and in low light conditions, improving awareness of the motorcyclist's position in traffic and improving his or her safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Inventor: Angela Boutte
  • Patent number: 9593764
    Abstract: A bicycle component operating apparatus is basically provided with a controller. The controller is configured to electrically adjust an input position of at least one operating member for starting operation of at least one bicycle component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Akinori Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 9527540
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing adequate lighting and sighting for a bicycle are disclosed. A lighting system that includes an illumination ring configured to be coupled to a wheel is also disclosed. The illumination ring is configured to simultaneously project light forward and to the side of a front wheel and to project light rearward of and to the side of a rear wheel. The illumination ring may be mounted to or integrated with the bicycle wheel. Methods of controlling light sources on the illumination ring are also disclosed. The lighting system can include an inductor module 5320 for powering lights of the illumination ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Revolights, Inc.
    Inventors: John Kent Frankovich, Bryan Duggan
  • Patent number: 9415820
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a turn signal lamp for bicycle, which includes a casing having a front side made of transparent material, a circuit board disposed inside the casing, a battery electrically connected to the circuit board, a light indication switch disposed close to a handle of the bicycle and configured to generate an operation signal to the circuit board according to a user's operation, a light source plate disposed inside the casing and each having light units disposed thereon for receiving power and control signal from the circuit board and enabling the light units to emit light constantly or blinkingly, and at least one light guide plate disposed inside the casing and configured to form at least two surface lights from point lights emitted by the light units, so as to produce a light indication of turning right or left through the front side of the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Kuo Chi Yang
  • Patent number: 9391471
    Abstract: A method comprising supplying current to charging elements, a charging element producing a configurable magnetic field polarity, magnetic field polarities produced by the charging elements according to a charging polarity code. The method determines a relative position between a receiving element and a charging element, receiving elements fixedly electrically connected according to the charging polarity code, responsive to determining, re-configuring a magnetic field polarity of one or more of the charging elements due to movement of the receiving elements relative to the charging elements, and inducing a charging current by the charging elements in the receiving elements to increase power transfer from the charging elements to the receiving elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
    Inventor: James R. Wood
  • Patent number: 9373260
    Abstract: A visual locating device for a motor vehicle, comprising a light signal generator coupleable with an antenna of the motor vehicle, and electronic control means responsive to an activation/setting command to control the light signal generator to cause emission of a light signal suitable to enable visually locating said motor vehicle. The electronic control means comprise user-controllable setting means to set a light emission mode of the light signal generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: FCA Italy S.p.A.
    Inventors: Andrea Mainini, Antonio Erario
  • Patent number: 9302592
    Abstract: An electrical battery exchanging system for reuse application is disclosed. The system includes: a number of rechargeable battery packs, a battery condition detecting module, a user ID checking module, a power source, a charging controlling module. Since the system can monitor conditions of rechargeable battery cells of the rechargeable battery packs and uses user ID for operating control purpose, it has benefits of conveniently exchanging low-power battery with fully charged one, easily sorting out end-of-life batteries and getting them for recycle or reuse, simply charging service fee and stably operating under a business model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Go-Tech Energy Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hung-Lan Lin, Li-Zen Lai
  • Patent number: 9296441
    Abstract: A hands-free signaler can include a gesture-detection sensor configured to detect a change in state associated with movement of a portion of a user's body other than one or both of his hands. A controller can be configured to assess whether a change in state detected by the gesture-detection sensor resulted from an intentional or an unintentional gesture by the user. The signaler can have an illuminable indicator. The controller can be further configured to selectively activate the illuminable indicator in a manner corresponding to a detected change of state assessed by the controller to have resulted from a respective intentional gesture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Michael P. Hutchens
  • Patent number: 9267800
    Abstract: A system for assisting a driver of a biomechanically-driven vehicle having at least one wheel (R), such as a bicycle, includes a device (DET1) for determining the speed of the vehicle, another device (DET) for determining the heading of the vehicle, a magnetometer (M) with at least two measurement axes for supplying data to determine the heading of the vehicle, and a device for supplying information relating to a movement of the vehicle, based on the speed of the vehicle, the slope of the rolling surface, and the heading of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignees: MOVEA, COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
    Inventors: Jérôme Doutaz, Stéphanie Riche, Thimothée Jobert
  • Patent number: 9264105
    Abstract: A communication device includes a sensor, an antenna, and a notification component. The sensor is configured to detect magnetic field strength. The antenna is configured to generate a magnetic field. The antenna is further configured to communicate with a wireless device that is configured to generate a magnetic field during communication. The notification component is configured to notify a positional offset between the antenna and the wireless device based on output signal indicative of the magnetic field strength. The sensor is arranged with respect to the antenna such that an effect of the magnetic field generated by the antenna on the output signal is suppressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: FUNAI ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Naoyuki Wakabayashi, Norito Tsujimoto
  • Patent number: 9248341
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program for transferring data are presented. In the method, pedalling data is received in a processor, wherein the pedalling data characterize pedalling quantity measured from the force transmission system of a bicycle. A transmission data frame comprising a first sub-frame including at least a portion of the pedalling data is formed, and the transmission data frame is outputted for wireless transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: Polar Electro Oy
    Inventors: Esa Tuulari, Jari Miettinen
  • Patent number: 9090304
    Abstract: A bicycle control device includes a base member, an operating member and a force sensor. The operating member is movably mounted relative to the base member from a rest position along an operating path. The force sensor is operated by physical contact by movement of the operating member along the operating path. The force sensor is configured to output at least one control signal based upon an operation force of the operating member acting on the force sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Toshio Tetsuka
  • Patent number: 9090300
    Abstract: A bicycle-use measuring apparatus includes a sensor, a signal amplifying section and a gain control section. The sensor is configured to be installed on a bicycle having a rotating part. The signal amplifying section amplifies an output of the sensor. The gain control section adjusts a gain of the signal amplifying section in accordance with changes in a rotational state of the rotating part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Satoshi Kitamura
  • Patent number: 9079533
    Abstract: Programmable devices and associated methods for alerting pedestrians and vehicle operators are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Inventors: Peter Pottier, Valentin Siderskiy
  • Publication number: 20150106996
    Abstract: The present invention provides a signal gear for cyclist to give brake and turn signals to other road users while the cyclist has full control of the handle bar and brake. The signal gear of the present invention is preferably a glove with finger portions. Control and activation of the turn and/or brake signals is mainly by using electrical conductive nature of the signal glove as a switch of the signaling component which is either incorporated with the glove or with the vehicle (e.g. bicycle). The signaling component can emit turn/brake light signal or transmit an activation signal to a light emitting device to give turn/brake light signal. The turn and brake light signals are in yellow and red color, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Koon Hang Lau
  • Patent number: 9013285
    Abstract: In a method for displaying warning signals using an electronic device while riding a bicycle, the method firstly detects any acceleration of the electronic device in three predefined axes in real time using a gravity sensor of the electronic device, and detects any angular velocity of the electronic device around any of the three predefined axes using a gyroscope of the electronic device. Secondly, the method determines a current driving condition of the bicycle according to any detected acceleration and any detected angular velocity of the electronic device. The method displays warning signals on the display screen of the electronic device according to the current driving condition of the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Chi Mei Communication Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Heng-Yi Juang
  • Publication number: 20150102919
    Abstract: An intelligent system for a bicycle is provided with a control assembly including a seat bag control device, a sensor device, a digital camera, a lighting device, a warning device, and a power supply for supplying DC power to above components; and a display assembly including an LCD screen, a processing module, a communications module, and a power module for electrically interconnecting the LCD screen, the processing module, and the communications module. The seat bag control device includes a microprocessor, a memory, and a wireless communications module. The sensor device includes an optical sensor, a thermometer, an acceleration sensor, a barometer, a gyroscope, an electronic compass, a radar, and a GPS. The digital camera includes a rear camera. The lighting device includes an auxiliary light, a rear light, a directional light, and a decoration light. The warning device includes a loudspeaker and a vibration module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventor: Tau-Jeng Hsu