For Bicycle Patents (Class 340/432)
  • Patent number: 7104091
    Abstract: A bicycle lock which can be fastened to a bicycle without any special holding device and which secures the bicycle, the seat support, and the seat is provided. The bicycle lock comprises a) a housing (2) and a drum (3) that is rotatably mounted within the housing (2), b) a cable (4) that is coiled onto the drum (3) and is directed towards the outside through an opening (6) of the housing (2). One end of the cable (4) is fixed to the drum (3) while the other end thereof, which is directed towards the outside, supports a half-lock (5a) that is connected to the half-lock (5b) disposed inside the housing (2) and can be fixed there, c) a coil spring (7) that is arranged between the housing (2) and through which the seat support (1) is guided, and e) a fastening element for fixing the housing (2) to the seat support (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Macro-Tec Development AG
    Inventor: Martin Kuhblank
  • Patent number: 7086096
    Abstract: A motorcycle windshield control system is disclosed. The system includes a receiver and filter circuit coupled to a motorcycle helmet having a windshield for receiving and filtering electromagnetic signals generated by an electrical device of a motorcycle. Alternatively, the receiver and filter circuit can receive signals emitted by an emitter installed on the motorcycle. The system also includes a control circuit coupled to the receiver and filter circuit, for performing a Boolean operation to activate a raiser motor for adjusting a position of the windshield when the Boolean operation generates a high logic level. The system can also include a manual override switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Fabián Montero
  • Patent number: 7080414
    Abstract: A motorcycle windshield control system is disclosed. The system includes a receiver and filter circuit coupled to a motorcycle helmet having a windshield for receiving and filtering electromagnetic signals generated by an electrical device of a motorcycle. Alternatively, the receiver and filter circuit can receive signals emitted by an emitter installed on the motorcycle. The system also includes a control circuit coupled to the receiver and filter circuit, for performing a Boolean operation to activate a raiser motor for adjusting a position of the windshield when the Boolean operation generates a high logic level. The system can also include a manual override switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventors: Fabián Montero, Thomas B. Haverstock
  • Patent number: 7071819
    Abstract: A remote control lock operation system for a vehicle capable of unlocking a mechanical locking mechanism for mechanically disabling traveling of the vehicle by a infrared signal, without using the key. Components of the system include a handheld remote control transmitter, a receiver, a mechanical locking mechanism, a lock actuator and control unit, and wiring sections for connecting the lock actuator and the receiver to the control unit mounted in a common module housing contained on the vehicle body. The main components of the system, including the wiring section leading to the lock actuator, are unitized and integrate into the common module housing in order to prevent unauthorized unlocking of the lock. Also provided is a mobile communication terminal having an infrared transmitting port, and a method for using of the terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Masayoshi Orita, Atsuo Ota
  • Patent number: 7066293
    Abstract: In a front structure of a motorcycle body, a meter unit is installed in such a manner that it can be shifted between a normal position and a bulb replacing position. The position of the meter unit is set such that, at the normal position, the lower end of the meter unit is lower than the upper end line of a bulb mounting and removing portion disposed in the rear surface of a head lamp unit and, at the bulb replacing position, the meter unit lower rear portion is higher than the upper end line H1 of the bulb mounting and removing portion. The meter unit is mounted directly on the head lamp unit and, when viewed from the side surface of the motorcycle body, the meter unit is superimposed on top of a cowling brace which is used to fix a front cowling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventor: Takashige Kakizoe
  • Patent number: 7061228
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting rotation of a bicycle part comprises a casing member comprising a generally annular body structured to be mounted to the bicycle part so that the annular body is incapable of rotating relative to the bicycle part as the bicycle part rotates in opposite directions around a rotational axis. The annular body includes a plurality of circumferentially disposed exposed magnet mounting portions that are concentric with respect to the rotational axis, and a cover member is detachably mounted to the annular body for blocking the plurality of magnet mounting portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventors: Tadashi Ichida, Masahiro Yamanaka
  • Patent number: 7055394
    Abstract: There can be obtained a handlebar stem ensuring that a speed indicator provides a readily observable indication and in addition thereto capable of achieving a reduction in size and weight. A handlebar stem attaching a bicycle's handlebar includes a rod attaching the handlebar stem to the bicycle; a speed indicator receiving a signal from a speed sensor to display speed; and an indicator housing located at a front protrusion extending in a forward direction to traverse the rod to house the speed indicator, the indicator housing, as seen along the rod, overlapping or being adjacent to the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Cateye Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 7049944
    Abstract: A bicycle display apparatus comprises a display unit and a color changing mechanism. The display unit optically displays information corresponding to the characteristic of the bicycling environment, and it includes a background light or a photoemission element that facilitates easy viewing of the displayed information. The color attribute changing mechanism changes at least one of the color, hue, color saturation and brightness of the background light in accordance with the characteristic of the bicycling environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Kouji Uno
  • Patent number: 6998970
    Abstract: A turn signal assembly for a vehicle includes a housing adapted for association with a radiator of the vehicle. A power connection is associated with the housing and is adapted to receive power. A light source is associated with the housing and is coupled with the power connection. The light source is operative to selectively provide illumination as a turn signal indication. Motorcycles including an exemplary turn signal assembly are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Bruno Conte
  • Patent number: 6997584
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a bicycle lamp includes a plurality of light sources; a source of power; an electrical circuit connecting the source of power with the plurality of light sources; at least one switch connected in the electrical circuit; a diffuser positioned adjacent at least one individual light source of the plurality of light sources, the diffuser including translucent resilient material supported on a helical coil defining a central passageway extending through the diffuser, the diffuser passageway being of sufficient dimension to accept a bicycle tube therethrough; a housing coupled to the diffuser, the housing having a housing passageway extending therethrough, wherein the housing passageway is generally complementary to and aligned with the diffuser passageway so as to provide a continuous opening through the bicycle lamp; and a reflector adjustably connected to the housing spaced apart from the housing passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventors: Russell Rothan, Jason Barber, Daniel Deutsch
  • Patent number: 6992572
    Abstract: A direction indicator system and associated method for cyclists, joggers and other users includes one or more direction indicating elements and a cooperating sensor structured to sense the position of the direction indicating means such that when a direction indicating element is moved out of the sensing zones, the indicator is activated, and when the direction indicating element moves within the sensing zone, it is deactivated. In one embodiment, a pair of indicators is employed and may be used to indicate direction of intended movement of a cyclist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: David Lovegrove
  • Patent number: 6987446
    Abstract: Multiple components of a motorcycle theft-deterrent device are enclosed within a single weather-resistant module, to ensure that wiring thereof is protected from the elements. The theft-deterrent device permits secure starting of the engine with a remotely operated device. The theft-deterrent device includes a CPU 41, a remote control receiver 42 for detecting a locking/unlocking signal from a remote operation device, and a vibration sensor 43 as theft-deterrent equipment in a handlebar lock module 12, including a handlebar lock mechanism. As a result of this inclusion, wiring is protected. The protected wiring sends locking/unlocking signals, which have been received by the remote control receiver 42, to the CPU 41, as well as vibration sense signals from the vibration sensor 43 to the CPU 41, for protecting the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Tadashi Onozuka
  • Patent number: 6982633
    Abstract: A motorcycle helmet having a ring of light enables the wearer to be seen by anyone, no matter where that person is on a circle centered on the wearer. The ring of light is attached to the shell of the helmet and extends completely around the helmet. The ring of light has a circumferential housing containing a right housing segment, a left housing segment, and a rear housing segment, each containing at least one light. A lens covering is provided over the lights on each segment. The light or lights and lens on the rear segment should together produce a red light beam when the light is activated. A receiver on the ring of light is connected to the lights in the left, right and rear housing segments. The receiver is activated by a transmitter on the motorcycle that is connected to the bike's electrical system. When the brake light or signal lights are activated the transmitter sends signals which the receiver uses to selectively activate the lights in the ring of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Joshua Burdick
  • Patent number: 6981413
    Abstract: A handle stem attached to a head tube of a bicycle includes a speed indicator housed in an indicator housing. The indicator is formed of a body including a circuit board and a liquid-crystal display and a battery housing which is detachable from the body. The body is fixed to the indicator housing and accordingly the speed indicator is attached to the handle stem and the battery housing is freely attachable/detachable. The handle stem and the speed indicator are thus obtained with which batteries are easily replaced without detaching the whole of the indicator from the handle stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Cateye Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Osamu Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 6945677
    Abstract: A manual-operation sound and light emitting device is used in a vehicle, particularly in a bicycle. Moving a movable rod, a gear will rotate. Then steel balls resists against a cover so as to rotate the cover. The rotation of the cover will drive a central rod and a bell body to rotate. Then a coil, a transparent light mask, and a hammer of the bell body displace to touch a block of a seat. By the elasticity of a spring, a hammer will vibrate after passing through the block so as to knock the bell body to emit sounds. A plurality of inclined grooves in the gear and the steel balls cause the bell body to rotate unidirectionally. When the central rod rotates, a coil will be driven. A magnet will cut through positive negative electrode sheets so as to light up LED lights in the bell body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Fon Hsiung Fu
  • Patent number: 6933836
    Abstract: A bike warning light control device essentially having a LED warning light provided on the rear mudguard of the bike; only a few LED bulbs are lighted when the power source is activated; when the brake is applied, a magneto switch on the handlebar clears away from the magnetic field of a magnet provided to the braking level to turn on all LED bulbs to warn the approaching vehicles; or a wireless signal transmission and receiving modulus are respectively provided to light all those LED bulbs of the warning light separately provided on a helmet to improve warning results and facilitate assembly of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Richard Hsu
  • Patent number: 6928855
    Abstract: The subject invention is directed to methods, processes and decisions on test outcomes for testing for faulty, therefor dangerous, performance of zero speed indicators that are used to control the opening of barriers guarding moving machine components. The indicators may be tested by removing them from the components during operation without shutting down production or in certain situations the indicators may be tested during the run down phase of the components caused by machine stop initiations. The tests allow to anticipate and hence prevent hazardous opening of barriers due to a faulty zero speed indication. Additionally, the invention is directed to testing of the insertion of motion interference devices in conjunction with zero speed indicators, both of which must perform correctly in order to permit the unlocking and opening of the protective barrier. There are included various exemplary devices for effecting the testing function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Triodyne, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph L. Barnett, Theordore Liber
  • Patent number: 6917283
    Abstract: A control system for an automatic shifting bicycle transmission includes a control unit, a display device and a remote switch assembly. The remote switch assembly is positioned close to a handgrip location. The remote switch assembly is used to shift gears when the bicycle is manually operated and to control data entry and review.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Takeda
  • Patent number: 6876297
    Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a protective cover incorporating a battery operated alarm unit contained within a pocket that is attached to the inner surface of the cover. A cable contained within the cover removably connects a switch actuating plunger of the alarm unit to the vehicle for operating a switch to activate the alarm unit, producing an audible alarm in the event an intruder attempts to remove the cover from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Dowco, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher M. Krohn, Kenneth R. Schweda
  • Patent number: 6873885
    Abstract: A system for data transmission on board a vehicle, such as a cycle, includes a set of peripheral modules which can be associated to respective sensors for generating respective sensing signals, and a main unit designed to receive the sensing signals coming from the set of peripheral modules. The peripheral modules are configured to transmit the sensing signals in a selective way and in the framework of respective transmission time slots determined by the main unit according to a general criterion of measurement of transmission times and power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventors: Valentino Campagnolo, Gianfranco Guderzo
  • Publication number: 20040239489
    Abstract: A control system for an automatic shifting bicycle transmission includes a control unit, a display device and a remote switch assembly. The remote switch assembly is positioned close to a handgrip location. The remote switch assembly is used to shift gears when the bicycle is manually operated and to control data entry and review.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Takeda
  • Publication number: 20040207520
    Abstract: A turn signal is provided for installment on a bicycle with a handle. The turning signal includes a transmitting device attached to the handle for transmitting a wireless signal, a receiving device attached to the bicycle for receiving the wireless signal, and a light electrically connected with the receiving device for signaling an intention to turn the bicycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 6805023
    Abstract: An integral rider control device mountable to a handlebar steered vehicle. The control device includes an integral support structure having a left end for receiving a left handgrip and a right end for receiving a right handgrip. A central section is disposed between the left end and the right end. A plurality of non-tubular receptacles are formed in the integral support structure between the left end and the right end thereof. Each of the receptacles are configured to receive a respective piece of equipment. The equipment may include controls, displays or accessories. A connecting member is molded into the central section and outwardly extends from the central section. The connecting member pivotally couples the integral support structure to the vehicle along a steering axis of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: SRAM Corporation
    Inventor: Jacques P. Greetis
  • Patent number: 6781510
    Abstract: A control system for an automatic shifting bicycle transmission includes a control unit, a display device and a remote switch assembly. The remote switch assembly is positioned close to a handgrip location. The remote switch assembly is used to shift gears when the bicycle is manually operated and to control data entry and review.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Takeda
  • Patent number: 6779401
    Abstract: A device for measuring the running parameters of a bicycle having a sensor capable of reacting to a revolution of a rotationally movable member through a change of state and operating according to a cycle of changes of state, the sensor being provided to be mounted on a rotatable member of the bicycle, a transmission circuit having an antenna, a reception circuit having an antenna. The transmitting circuit has a circuit for calculating a value of the running parameter based on the signal originating from the sensor, a transmitter connected to the antenna to transmit this value to the receiving device, and an optimization circuit for activating the transmission of the transmitter to moments independent of the changes of state of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Mavic S.A.
    Inventor: Bruno Montagnon
  • Patent number: 6774771
    Abstract: An apparatus for informing a rider of an upcoming shifting operation in a bicycle transmission includes a running condition detecting mechanism that detects a running condition of the bicycle, a control mechanism that provides a signal that commands the shifting operation when the running condition reaches a threshold value, and a warning mechanism that warns the rider when the running condition approaches the threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Takeda
  • Patent number: 6759947
    Abstract: A Moving Vehicle Comfort, Security and Safety Signaling System is disclosed. The system may be available as a kit for installation on a conventional vehicle, or it may be integrated into the vehicle (e.g. within a bicycle frame). The system further includes an improved lighted indicator assembly to provide other vehicles and pedestrians with additional information regarding the driver/rider's intentions. The system may be voice-activated or activated by manual switches, or both. The system may further include an anti-theft device for detecting if the vehicle is jostled. Furthermore, the system, when configured for a bicycle, may include a water misting system for dispensing fine water spray onto the rider's face area. A kit for installation on existing bicycles utilizes flat circuit tape for interconnecting the electrical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Manuel Aceves
  • Publication number: 20040119583
    Abstract: The invention provides a bicycle-mountable lock. The lock rigidly attaches to a first portion of a bicycle, and includes an attachable portion. An audible alarm sounds when either the lock is broken or when the attachable portion is broken, typically by a thief attempting to steal a bicycle. Also optionally provided in the lock and alarm is an audible alarm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Edward A. Linden, Donald J. Booty
  • Patent number: 6753768
    Abstract: An air pressure detecting device serves to detect the air pressure of a wheel of a vehicle which has a tire tube disposed in a tire, the air pressure detecting device is disposed between the tire tube and the rim of the wheel portion for detecting the air pressure of the tire. The air pressure detecting device has a pressure bearing plate held in contact with the outer surface of the tire tube, a pressure sensor for detecting a pressure of the pressure bearing plate, and a detecting and transmitting unit for detecting pressure information from the pressure sensor, converting the pressure information into an electric signal, and transmitting the electric signal as a radio wave. The pressure bearing plate, the pressure sensor, and the detecting and transmitting unit are superposed in the order named. The components including the pressure bearing plate, the pressure sensor, and the detecting and transmitting circuit can be installed without the need for a special modification of the tire tube and the rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada, Osamu Bunya
  • Publication number: 20040075543
    Abstract: A rear lighting device for a motorcycle is disclosed. The rear lighting device is mounted on a rear fender that covers a rear wheel of the motorcycle. The rear lighting device includes a flasher stay that is mounted on the rear fender through a stay bracket, and flashers mounted on right and left mounting end sections of the flasher stay. The flasher stay includes a mounting plane surface section provided in a generally central area of the flasher stay along its length direction and right and left end sections on both sides of the mounting plane surface section. The mounting plane surface section is defined by a plate like section that is generally flat in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the flasher stay, and the mounting plane section extends generally horizontally as the flasher stay is mounted on the stay bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Takehiro Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 6724299
    Abstract: A method of communicating data in a bicycle data processing system comprises the steps of communicating first information from a transmitter to a receiver, wherein the first information has a first rate of change; and communicating second information from the transmitter to the receiver a plurality of times, wherein the second information has a second rate of change that is greater than the first rate of change. A method of storing data in a bicycle data processing system comprises the steps of receiving a first data item a first time; storing a value of the first data item in a first memory; receiving the first data item a second time; comparing a value of the first data item received the first time with a value of the first data item received the second time; and storing the value of the first data item received the second time in the first memory when the value of the first data item received the first time substantially equals the value of the first data item received the second time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Takeda, Haruyuki Takebayashi
  • Publication number: 20040036585
    Abstract: A bicycle display apparatus comprises a display device adapted to be mounted to the bicycle, wherein the display device displays various types of information to a rider; a light sensor; and a display control element operatively coupled to the display device and to the light sensor for controlling the display device in accordance with signals from the light sensor. An apparatus provided for shifting a bicycle transmission having a plurality of gear positions comprises a running condition detector that detects a running condition of the bicycle; a light sensor; and a gearshift control element operatively coupled to the running condition detector and to the light sensor and providing a control signal for controlling the bicycle transmission in accordance with signals from the light sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventors: Satoshi Kitamura, Kouji Uno, Kazuhiro Fujii
  • Publication number: 20040039522
    Abstract: A cycling route recording system includes a speed sensor for generating speed information of a bicycle, and a route recording device coupled to the speed sensor and to be connected to a computer for downloading and uploading route maps of bicycle cycling routes. The route recording device includes a storage device for storing the route maps, a display screen for displaying the route maps thereon, an input unit for providing travel direction information of the bicycle, and a processor for generating a cycling track of the bicycle based on the speed information and the travel direction information. The processor controls the display screen to show the cycling track thereon, the cycling track being superimposed on a selected route map when the latter is displayed on the display screen. The processor further controls storage of the cycling track as a new route map in the storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Star Jwo
  • Patent number: 6690266
    Abstract: A signaling light attachment for bicycles including a pair of turn lights removably couplable with a bicycle. The pair of turn lights include a right turn light and a left turn light in a spaced relationship. The right turn light and the left turn light have a central support extending therebetween. The right turn light and the left turn light each have an internal activation switch. The internal activation switches have cables extending outwardly therefrom. The cables have free ends coupling with respective right and left brake handles of the bicycle. A battery is secured to the bicycle. The battery is connected with the pair of turn lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventors: Vivian Jack, Eleanor Sparrow
  • Patent number: 6690267
    Abstract: The invention provides a remotely controllable bicycle lock and alarm system and a remote control device enabled to facilitate communication between the a remote control device and the lock and alarm system. Also provided in the lock and alarm system is an audible alarm for notification of the bicycle operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventors: Edward A. Linden, Charles P. Marschhausen
  • Patent number: 6686837
    Abstract: A brake light control system for a motorcycle, comprises a module attached to a helmet. The module has a signal receiver, a light emitter, and a battery to power the receiver and emitter. A brake light assembly in the motorcycle includes a brake socket connected to a power source in the motorcycle. A transmitter having a socket and a plug is removably installed between the bulb plug and the brake socket in a way in which the bulb plug is mounted in the transmitter socket, and the transmitter plug is mounted in the brake socket. The transmitter radiates an infrared brake signal to the signal receiver while electrically activating the bulb by the braking operation of the motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Jounghoon Kim
  • Publication number: 20040017286
    Abstract: A control system for an automatic shifting bicycle transmission includes a control unit, a display device and a remote switch assembly. The remote switch assembly is positioned close to a handgrip location. The remote switch assembly is used to shift gears when the bicycle is manually operated and to control data entry and review.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Takeda
  • Publication number: 20040008106
    Abstract: The invention provides a safety light activated by deceleration independent of the application of a brake lever. In general, the invention described provides a self-contained circuit for sensing deceleration and activating a light emitter responsive to the deceleration. In a disclosed specific embodiment of the invention, a helmet for motorcycle riders and like applications includes a circuit including a light emitter on a rearward portion of the helmet. Deceleration-responsive switching means is coupled to the light emitter and a suitable power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Michael T. Konczal
  • Publication number: 20040000990
    Abstract: A method of communicating data in a bicycle data processing system comprises the steps of communicating first information from a transmitter to a receiver, wherein the first information has a first rate of change; and communicating second information from the transmitter to the receiver a plurality of times, wherein the second information has a second rate of change that is greater than the first rate of change. A method of storing data in a bicycle data processing system comprises the steps of receiving a first data item a first time; storing a value of the first data item in a first memory; receiving the first data item a second time; comparing a value of the first data item received the first time with a value of the first data item received the second time; and storing the value of the first data item received the second time in the first memory when the value of the first data item received the first time substantially equals the value of the first data item received the second time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Takeda, Haruyuki Takebayashi
  • Publication number: 20030206097
    Abstract: A Moving Vehicle Comfort, Security and Safety Signaling System is disclosed. The system may be available as a kit for installation on a conventional vehicle, or it may be integrated into the vehicle (e.g. within a bicycle frame). The system further includes an improved lighted indicator assembly to provide other vehicles and pedestrians with additional information regarding the driver/rider's intentions. The system may be voice-activated or activated by manual switches, or both. The system may further include an anti-theft device for detecting if the vehicle is jostled. Furthermore, the system, when configured for a bicycle, may include a water misting system for dispensing fine water spray onto the rider's face area. A kit for installation on existing bicycles utilizes flat circuit tape for interconnecting the electrical components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventor: Manuel Aceves
  • Publication number: 20030197600
    Abstract: A bicycle signal processing device includes a first bicycle signal processing element that generates a first signal having a first impedance, an external output terminal having an exposed output contact surface, and an impedance converting circuit coupled between the first bicycle signal processing element and the external output terminal for converting the first signal to a second signal having a second impedance at the external output terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventors: Satoshi Kitamura, Kouji Oohara
  • Publication number: 20030191567
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided which enables a performer to enhance performance evaluation of performing with a human-powered vehicle having one or more wheel(s) wherein measurements of (1) position, velocity and acceleration of said vehicle out of a starting gate and, optionally, one or more corner(s) of a performance track and, optionally, (2) position, velocity and acceleration and/or conservation of momentum of said vehicle over one or more various obstacles within the performance track are made with a resolution of sufficient sensitivity to make such improvements. The invention has particular application in cycling activities, such as BMX cycling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Leonard Gentilcore
  • Patent number: 6625523
    Abstract: A system for data transmission on board a vehicle, such as a cycle, includes a set of peripheral modules which can be associated to respective sensors for generating respective sensing signals, and a main unit designed to receive the sensing signals coming from the set of peripheral modules. The peripheral modules are configured to transmit the sensing signals in a selective way and in the framework of respective transmission time slots determined by the main unit according to a general criterion of measurement of transmission times and power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventors: Valentino Campagnolo, Gianfranco Guderzo
  • Publication number: 20030160686
    Abstract: A bicycle display apparatus comprises a display unit and a color changing mechanism. The display unit optically displays information corresponding to the characteristic of the bicycling environment, and it includes a background light or a photoemission element that facilitates easy viewing of the displayed information. The color attribute changing mechanism changes at least one of the color, hue, color saturation and brightness of the background light in accordance with the characteristic of the bicycling environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Applicant: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Kouji Uno
  • Patent number: 6600411
    Abstract: A bicycle electrical connector cord includes a first connector, a primary cable, a second connector, a secondary cable and an electrical device. The first connector has a plurality of first electrical contacts. The primary cable includes a first conducting member electrically coupled to one of the first contacts and a second conducting member electrically coupled to one of the first contacts. The second connector has at least one second electrical contact electrically coupled to the first conducting member. The secondary cable extends from the second connector and includes a third conducting member electrically coupled to the second conducting member. The electrical device is electrically coupled to the third conducting member. A method is also provided for attaching a bicycle electrical connector cord to a display unit and a pair of electrical devices on a non-forward facing portion of a bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Naohiro Nishimoto
  • Patent number: 6598894
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a signal element to a bicycle wheel includes a base member for mounting to the wheel and a movable member coupled to the base member for movement relative to the base member, wherein the movable member includes a signal element mounting location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Fujii, Kouji Uno
  • Patent number: 6588297
    Abstract: An integral rider control device coupled to a handlebar steered vehicle includes an elongate integral support structure having receptacles and non-cylindrical mounting surfaces, and a central region of the structure configured to pivotally couple to the vehicle. Each receptacle is configured to integrally receive at least one accessory, control or display. The mounting surfaces are configured for the integral attachment of the accessories, controls and displays. The device can include upper and lower elongate spars. An integrated rider control system includes an elongate stem, the structure pivotally coupled to the stem, and two mandrels outwardly projecting from left and right ends of the structure. A cushionable cover connected to the structure. A rider control device includes an elongate member having at least two gripping surfaces and an elongate open recess defined into the member and configured to receive one of integrally attached accessories, controls and displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: SRAM Corporation
    Inventors: Frederick K. W. Day, Todd J. Darland, Charles M. Goldman, Christine Raymo
  • Patent number: 6587042
    Abstract: An automatic accident informing apparatus for a two-wheel vehicle is provided which can detect the occurrence of accident with the use of a simple arrangement. The automatic accident informing apparatus for a two-wheel vehicle includes an accident detecting module 3 for detecting an accident of the vehicle and an accident informing module 7 arranged responsive to the occurrence of the accident detected by the accident detecting module 3 for informing an external party(s) of the accident. The accident detecting module 3 includes an inclination sensor 2 for measuring the inclination angle of the vehicle and an accident judgment unit 340 for judging that the vehicle met with the accident when the inclination of the vehicle remains higher than a predetermined degree throughout a specific length of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hajime Tabata, Kazumitsu Kushida
  • Patent number: 6533438
    Abstract: A bicycle of scooter safety light mountable to the scooter or bicycle, includes light emitting diodes conductively coupled with a battery-operated power circuit. A plurality of elongated segments are pivotally attached to one another and form a generally cylindrical housing structure sized to wrap tightly around a bar of the bicycle or scooter when opposing segments are brought towards one another and clamped together. Internal compartments of the segments hold either the power circuit and battery or light emitting diodes. The safety light includes a power switch, such as a motion detector for controlling illumination of light emitting diode only when motion is detected, or a photo sensor for delivering power to the light emitting diodes only when in absence of light is detected in order to conserve battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: U.S. Britelite, Inc.
    Inventor: Artak Ter-Hovhannisian
  • Patent number: 6529126
    Abstract: A vehicle safety system used to enhance the safety of a motorist by emitting output signals from the helmet of the motorist using a unit attached to the associated vehicle that detects the operating conditions of the associated vehicle and transmits the conditions to a second unit, attached to the helmet of the operator to emit an output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: John Junior Henry