Bicycle on-board device and related support and mounting method

ES 2 652 020 T3

DESCRIPTION

Bike integrated device and related mounting device and bracket

The present invention relates to a bicycle Integrated device assembly and to a bracket for mounting it. A method for mounting the Integrated device on a bicycle is also disclosed which is not part of the scope of the claimed Invention.

Said bicycle device may be of the autonomous type or it may be part of an Integrated electronic system comprising other electromechanical and / or electronic, wireless electrical or cable connected devices.

Electronic systems integrated in bicycles are known and are becoming more and more refined. The Integrated device or the system of which it is part may, for example, be intended to control and / or manage the gear change and / or to obtain, process and / or store parameters and / or data relating to the cyclist and / or the bicycle. and / or to the tour. The Integrated device or the system of which it is a part may also be intended for mobile phone communication, for multiple media and / or for anti-theft monitoring of the bicycle.

The Bicycle Integrated device may also simply comprise a battery power unit, possibly with associated electronic power supply means, for other devices of the Integrated electronic system, or vice versa only one or more circuit boards without a battery power unit. battery power.

Documents US 2001/0042767 A1 and EP 1 553 012 A1 each describe a confinement unit for an electronic system for the control / power of at least one Integrated electronic device for a bicycle, presenting a configuration adapted for external fixing. of the frame at the same point of attachment as a bollard holder and, preferably, with the same fixing means.

The Applicant observes that in these documents the position on the frame is defined in a unique way and, therefore, is restricted to a specific model of bicycle frame.

Document US 2005/0280244 A1 describes a bicycle control apparatus that can be mounted on a seat post, and more specifically on a seat post that is removably mounted on the seat tube. According to said document, the seat post, at its upper end opposite the saddle, comprises a circuit mounting structure such as, for example, an external screw thread. The control apparatus comprises a tubular housing, which can be inserted into the seat post, as well as a cover at the lower end of the tubular housing. The tubular housing houses a microprocessor-shaped control unit, and has an Internal thread at the Lower end. The cover is shaped as a stepped bolt comprising: a head, equipped with a tool fitting structure and having an eternal diameter slightly greater than the Internal diameter of the seat post; a first male threaded portion with a diameter slightly less than the diameter of the head; and a second male threaded portion with a diameter slightly less than the diameter of the first male threaded portion. The second male threaded portion is screwed into the Internal thread of the tubular housing; then the first male threaded portion is screwed into the Internal thread of the seat post. In an alternative embodiment, the housing is mounted to the seat post in a different way. The first male threaded portion of the cover is replaced by a mounting structure comprising a plurality of removable retaining ball projections slidably retained within a corresponding plurality of retaining holes and radially pushed outward with a corresponding plurality of springs. The mounting structure also includes a plurality of fixed projections in the form of rectangular male grooves. In the seat post, the circuit mounting structure comprises, instead of the female thread, a plurality of recesses in the form of semi-ferrous grooves and a plurality of recesses in the form of female grooves. This embodiment with respect to the first one, has the advantage of not subjecting the cables to torsion during their assembly inside the seat post.

Some holes are arranged inside the tubular housing and in the cover, for the passage of the cables for data and energy transport, equipped with respective connectors. Some holes are also arranged in the seat post, for the passage of the cables, equipped with respective connectors. A groove may also be included within the Inner peripheral surface of the seat post or in the outer peripheral surface of the housing, to accommodate the cables coming out of the cover and leading them upwards, for example towards the top tube of the frame.

The Applicant observes that said control device has a number of drawbacks. Indeed, such a device requires the seat post to have a tubular cylinder shape, while bicycle frames and, therefore, seat posts with a non-circular cross section are becoming more and more common, mainly for aerodynamic reasons. . In addition, said apparatus requires a substantial alteration of the seat post to develop the mounting structure of the circuit, which also poorly adapts to seat posts made from a composite material such as carbon fiber. Likewise, it requires the disconnection of the signal and power supply cables whenever you want to remove the saddle. Likewise, since

ES 2 652 020 T3 has to fit inside the seat post which, in turn, is dimensioned to fit inside the seat tube of the frame, the apparatus necessarily has a small transverse size. Finally, bicycle frames with an integrated seat post, for which such a device is not suitable, are becoming more and more common. Document CH 437 013, which represents the closest prior art, discloses a luggage transport device for bicycles and motorcycles, in which on the luggage rack, an independent, lockable transport cover can be removed and arranged to be folded up. behind, the carrying case being removably arranged on a bracket such that the use of the strap for securing luggage is not impeded by the carrying bag.

The bottom of the carrying case is provided with transverse grooves and a longitudinal groove, where screws can be slid and fixed, said screws resting on the outer side of the carrying case with a hook-shaped tongue, arranged to fasten the carrying case over the bracket. In detail, the document shows the following features of claim 1: The set comprises a device (1) integrated into the bicycle having an oblong shape, and a support (1) for removably fixing the Integrated device (1) of the bicycle along an oblong element (11), where the support (1) has at least one first opening (5) configured to receive a stem of a first device (7) for fixing to the oblong element (11) and a second opening (6) configured to receive a stem of a second device (7) for fixing to the oblong element (11), the first opening (5) and the second opening (6) being separated along a first direction, which, in use, is a longitudinal direction of the element (11) oblong, the first opening (5) being configured to receive the stem of the first fixing device (7), alternately in at least two separate first positions in said first opening (5), the first two positions being separated along a second direction, substantially transverse to the first direction, which, in use, is a direction transverse to the oblong element (11), wherein said at least one first aperture (5) comprises a plurality of first apertures (5) spaced along the first direction, wherein said at least one second aperture (6) is configured to receive the stem of the second device (7) fixing, alternately, in at least two second separate positions in said second opening (6), the second positions being separated along the first direction. Document NL 2001779 discloses a set, provided with a vehicle that can be driven at least by the force of a person, for example a bike, in which the vehicle is provided with a tubular frame and wheels rotatably coupled to the frame , wherein the assembly is provided with at least one module, which module can be detachably coupled to a tube or a substantially horizontal tube part of the frame, for example a part of a luggage rack, by means of a telescopic coupling, the tube or the tube part being provided with an open end for sliding an elongated coupling part of the module inside the tube or the tube part.

Said module is slidable between at least two different positions, when they are coupled to the tube or the tube part, and which can be located in a first position located near the luggage area up to a second position coupled to the tube or the tube part, second position in which the module is located in the luggage area. The module can also be arranged from a position coupled to the tube or tube portion in a position removed from the vehicle, and vice versa. A locking means is also arranged to lock said module on the vehicle.

The technical problem underlying the invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks and make possible an integrated device that is attached to a bicycle in a versatile way, not restricted to a specific model of bicycle or frame.

In one aspect, the invention relates to an assembly comprising a bicycle integrated device with an oblong shape, and a support for removably fixing the integrated device on the bicycle along an oblong element of the bicycle frame, wherein the support has at least one first opening configured to receive a stem of a second device for fixing to the oblong element, the first aperture and the second aperture being spaced apart along a first direction, which, in use, is a longitudinal direction of the oblong element, the first aperture being configured to receive the stem of the first fixation device alternately in al least two separate first positions in said first opening, the first two positions being separated along a second direction, substantially transverse to the first direction, which, in use, is a direction transverse to the oblong element, wherein said at least one first aperture comprises a plurality of first apertures spaced apart along the first direction, wherein said at least one second aperture is configured to receiving the stem of the second fixation device alternately in at least two second separate positions in said second opening, the two second positions being spaced apart along the first direction, and wherein said at least one second aperture comprises a plurality of second apertures spaced apart along a first direction.

The first direction is the longitudinal direction of a seat defined on the support for the integrated device and the second direction is a transverse direction of the seat defined on the support for the integrated device.

In this way, the bracket can be fixed, through the first and second fixing devices, to an oblong bicycle frame element that is not rectilinear - as is typically the case with a horizontal tube of the rear bracket that exhibits a curvature. - that adapts to different degrees of divergence from the profile

ES 2 652 020 T3 rectilinear, typically dependent on the bicycle frame model, extending as far as possible along said frame element. As it is possible to mount the bracket so that the integrated device housed inside it projects as little as possible transversely from the frame, there are substantial advantages in terms of physical appearance, aerodynamics and safety.

Preferably, each aperture is Independently separated from the group consisting of a slit defining an indefinite number of positions and a multi-hole aperture, that is, an aperture having a shape corresponding to several aligned circular holes that preferably present a distance between centers Less than the diameter, being preferred that the opening of multiple holes is preferred despite being simpler since, in the event of loss of the fixing element, it limits vibrations.

Preferably, the bracket defines a seat for the Integrated device configured to house the Integrated device in at least two separate positions of the seat, the two positions being separated along a longitudinal axis of the Integrated device. In this way, once the bracket is attached to the oblong element of the bicycle frame, the integrated device can be adapted to slide along the oblong element of the bicycle frame on the bracket to an appropriate position. In particular, it is possible to fix the bracket to the frame on the bottom close to the frame for housing the bottom mount assembly, and make the integrated device slide into a position at least partially hidden by a pedal crank or by the sprockets.

In one embodiment, the support defines an oblong seat for the integrated device that incorporates means projecting into it for attachment to the integrated device.

The projection means are preferably a pair of perforated projecting seats that are dimensioned, at least in the transverse direction of the device, in a similar way to a pair of bicycle frame inserts intended for fixing a bottle cage. .

In this way, the oblong seat is configured as the inner part of a seat tube of a bicycle frame in a bottle cage and can be used with an Integrated device that is advantageously configured to be fixed to the frame alternately. by means of the support or inside the seat tube, fixed by fixing means to the bottle cage. Such a device is described in detail below.

Alternatively or additionally, the projecting means comprises at least one projecting rib for engagement with a groove of the Integrated device.

In one embodiment, more specifically the oblong seat for the device is defined by a first wall that has at least one first and at least one second opening, a second wall in which said projecting means are located, and at least one junction wall between the first and second walls, so that the support has the form of at least part of the lateral surface or shell of a hollow solid.

In the present description and in the appended claims, the term wall is to be understood in a broad sense, to encompass substantially a two-dimensional but not necessarily flat portion that does not necessarily end in edges and / or corners, such as a portion of a wall. cylindrical.

Preferably, the first and second walls are opposite each other and off-center in the longitudinal direction of the support, so that the support is in the shape of at least part of the housing surface of a hollow solid with an oblique base and in the top with respect to the longitudinal axis. In this way, it is possible to access said at least one first opening or, respectively, said at least one second opening, with a mounting tool for said, respectively, first and second fixing elements, offering at the same time, in the longitudinal direction, a length adapted to contain and support the device. This embodiment is especially useful in the case of fixing the frame to the bottom, since it allows the bracket to be easily fixed to the frame despite the presence of the pedal cranks and the toothed wheels, although accommodating the time then the device in close proximity to the bottom frame assembly.

In one embodiment, the oblong seat for the device is open at both longitudinal ends. In the event that fixing means such as a screw are not used between the bracket and the integrated device, the latter can therefore slide along the oblong element of the bicycle frame.

In an alternative embodiment, the oblong seat for the device is open at one longitudinal end and closed by an end wall at the opposite longitudinal end.

Preferably, said end wall has a seat for a removable connector for a cable, more preferably a power supply and / or a recharging cable for the integrated device.

The support may be provided with one or more openings to access said at least one first opening and / or said at least one second opening and / or for lighting purposes.

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In one embodiment, the support comprises at least two flanges, the first opening and the second opening being formed in differentiated flanges. By forming the two openings inside differentiated flanges, it is possible to modify the distance between the first and the second fixing devices to adapt it to the oblong element of the bicycle frame, simply by modifying the distance between the flanges.

Preferably, each flange has means for adjusting the clamping force around the integrated device by loosening, which is possible to make the integrated device slide along the oblong element of the bicycle frame or to remove it from the mount .

Preferably, the support has at least one rubber insert on the surface of the seat intended to contact the integrated device, presenting an anti-vibration function.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, an integrated bicycle device having an oblong shape and comprising a cavity, preferably containing a battery power supply unit and / or at least one frame. circuit inside it, the device being dimensioned for insertion in an oblong element of the bicycle, characterized in that it incorporates two seats for fixing devices, the seats being spaced along a longitudinal direction of the integrated device.

In this way, the integrated device can be mounted inside the oblong element of the bicycle, in particular inserted in the oblong element, suspended in the oblong element or suspended from a tubular element capable of being inserted in the oblong element, or else in the outside along the oblong element of the bicycle by means of two fixing devices, for example screws, which are inserted transversely through the oblong element of the bicycle, or even through a support capable of being fixed to the oblong element of the bicycle.

Preferably, said seats comprise two threaded holes.

Preferably, the integrated device further comprises a seat for a removable connector for a cable.

Also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, is a set of a bicycle integrated device according to the above and a corresponding support.

Said set offers the possibility of mounting the integrated device outside the bicycle directly or through the support and, without the support, in at least one position inside the bicycle, either inserted in an oblong element of the bicycle, suspended in an element oblong of the bicycle and suspended from a tubular element capable of being inserted into an oblong element of the bicycle.

Preferably, said at least one position inside the bicycle is selected from a position inserted in the seat tube, more preferably in the bottle cage, suspended in the seat tube and suspended from the seat post.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a bicycle frame or a seat post or handlebars with an integrated device mounted on an oblong element thereof, in particular a horizontal tube of the rear support or of the down tube of the frame. , characterized in that the integrated device is housed in a support and can be positioned relative to the oblong element in at least two different positions along the direction of the oblong element.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a bicycle frame or a seat post or handlebars with an integrated device mounted on an oblong element thereof, in particular a horizontal tube of a rear support or of a down tube. of the frame, characterized in that the integrated device is housed in a support that can be located, with respect to the oblong element, with at least two different inclinations with respect to the longitudinal direction of the oblong element.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a method for assembling an integrated device of a bicycle, comprising the steps of:

fixing a bracket to an oblong element of the bicycle by means of a first fixing device and a second fixing device by inserting a stem of the first fixing device into a first opening of the bracket and a stem of the second fixing device in a second opening of the bracket, such that the stem of the first fixation device is inserted into the first opening in a preselected position of at least two spaced first positions in said opening along a direction transverse to the frame element, and the fixation of the integrated device in a stand seat.

Also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, is a mount for an integrated device on a bicycle that has a seat for a removable connector for a cable, more preferably a recharging cable for the integrated device.

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It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a bicycle frame or a seat post or handlebars with a seat for mounting a removable connector of a cable, more preferably a recharging cable of a Integrated device capable of being inserted into the frame or seat post or handlebars.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a bicycle frame or a seat post or handlebars with an integrated device inserted in an oblong element thereof and a hole for accessing a removable connector of a cable of the integrated device. , more preferably, a recharging cable.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, an integrated bicycle device with an oblong shape and comprising a cavity containing a battery power supply unit and at least one circuit board therein, the device being dimensioned for insertion into a seat tube of a bicycle frame, characterized by presenting at least one fixing means that coincide with some fixing means of a bottle cage.

Typically, indeed, bicycle frames have an arrangement to fix the bottle cage along the seat tube, the insertion capacity of the device inside the seat tube allows the connection cables with the other electrical, electronic, and other devices. / or electromechanical components of the integrated system do not disconnect when the saddle is removed from the bicycle. In addition, the bike integrated device is also adapted for bicycle frames with integrated seatpost. Likewise, since it is not necessary to hang the integrated device on the seat post, it is not necessary to have special fixing means on the seat post, ensuring the immediate possibility of application to essentially all bicycle and seat post frames. of seats from countless manufacturers, even made from a composite material and / or with a non-circular cross section. The weight of the device is also arranged near the lowest point of the bicycle frame, with advantages in terms of stability.

In one example, said at least one fixing means comprises one and, preferably, two holes having an internal thread that coincides with an external thread of a respective screw for fixing the bottle cage. The threaded hole (s) is (are) arranged, in the mounted position of the integrated device, coaxially with a respective insert of the frame. Typically, in effect, bicycle frames comprise a pair of internally threaded inserts which, to enable an appropriate screw length for the fixing bolts, project towards the inside of the frame.

Although the term insert is used herein for the sake of simplicity, the disclosure applies to one-piece gussets with the frame.

In one example, the internal screwing of at least one of the holes is the same as the internal screwing of the corresponding insert and, preferably, it is practiced in a component that has at least one degree of freedom of movement with respect to the rest of the insert. body of the device, to facilitate the fit with the fixing screw of the bottle cage already screwed into the insert of the frame.

Preferably, said component having said internal thread is a bushing, housed in a smooth hole of the integrated device and longitudinally pushed by a preloaded spring.

Alternatively, the threaded inserts on the frame can be replaced by inserts equipped with smooth holes for the passage of the fixing screws of the bottle cage screwed only in the integrated device.

Likewise, the internal threading of the integrated device and associated set screw can have a diameter that is smaller than the internal diameter of the frame inserts, so that the set screws of the bottle cage are only screwed into the integrated device, then to pass without fitting into the threaded inserts of the frame.

In these cases, the integrated device is preferably effectively attached to the frame at the same time as the bottle cage. In the event that the bottle cage is later attached or removed, it is appropriate to unscrew a single screw, screw it also to the bottle cage or leave it free from it with respect to the bottle cage, respectively, screw it back into the integrated device and only subsequently operate on it. way on the same screw.

In a case that totally separates the two mounting stages on the integrated device and the bottle cage, an external and internally threaded element is screwed through its external thread into the frame insert and into the integrated device, the internal thread being Available to fix the bottle cage through a respective fixing screw.

In another case that separates the two assembly stages of the integrated device and the bottle cage, a threaded stud is screwed into the frame insert to the inside of the integrated device, leaving the cage fixed by means of a nut to the threaded stud.

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In another case, said at least one fixing means comprises a material in which the screwing is created by a self-tapping screw, capable of holding it.

In one example, the Integrated device comprises a groove that extends along its main longitudinal direction and that is dimensioned to receive a portion of said at least one Bicycle Frame Insert intended to fix the arbor, said at least a fixing means arranged on the lower part of said groove.

The groove, advantageously, offers a restriction against rotation, and an Inclination with respect to a main longitudinal direction of the seat tube of the frame, thus avoiding stress and noise. Likewise, by providing said groove, it is possible to maximize the size of the Integrated device and, therefore, of the available Internal space. In fact, the Integrated device can have in other places a transverse size essentially corresponding to the Internal size of the seat tube of the frame and in the longitudinal direction it can extend from the housing of the Lower frame assembly or slightly upwards, up to the maximum Insertion depth of the seat post.

Preferably, said groove extends from one end of the device which, in the mounted position of the device is the rest of the way down, but has an adjacent surface at the upper longitudinal end of the groove. In this way, the Integrated device is hooked into the upper Insert of the frame while remaining suspended, ensuring that there is no Interference with the axis of the Lower frame assembly.

In one case, the device, at at least one longitudinal end, has an alternative means to be fixed suspended on a seat post or on the seat tube.

In this way, the Integrated device can alternately be fixed hanging from the seat post, Inserted inside the seat post, suspended in the seat tube or Inserted into the seat tube and fixed in the bolt holder as required. stated previously.

The alternative attachment means may comprise an expander for attachment by radial pressure against the Inner wall of the seat post or seat tube.

The expander may consist of a component that can be removably attached to the rest of the device by means of a joint, such as a dovetail, bayonet, quick-fit joint, etc. This example allows an expander set screw to be easily reached. .

Preferably, the device comprises an oblong hollow body made of a plastic material.

The groove and any fixing means and / or any alternative fixing means may be made of a metal plate capable of being removably associated with the oblong hollow body, for example made from a plastic material. In this way, it is possible to increase the resistance and / or to elaborate a single oblong hollow body and a series of plates, each adapted to different sizes and / or distances between centers of the bolt holder fixing inserts.

Alternatively, at the expense of the size of the Internal cavity, it is possible to arrange various fixing means, for example several pairs of holes, at different angular positions.

The Integrated device may also be equipped with a seat to temporarily fix a mounting assist means.

In one case, said seat is a through hole that extends substantially perpendicular to the main longitudinal direction of the Integrated device, and even more preferably that coincides with the hole equipped with the Internal thread corresponding to the Lower Insert of the frame. In this case, a first end of a semi-rigid cable, such as a steel cable, is threaded into the hole of the Lower Insert of the frame, extracted from the upper end of the seat tube, passed through the Interior of the through hole, re-threaded through inside the seat tube and removed from the Lower mount assembly housing box. By extracting the two ends of the cable from the frame, the Integrated device is positioned correctly, with the hole fitted with a coaxial thread with the Frame Insert.

In another case, said seat is made on the upper longitudinal end face and is composed of a seat, for example a bayonet seat or an Internally threaded hole, to temporarily fix a rigid bar of such length that it still partially protrudes from the seat tube. when the Integrated device is correctly positioned.

Preferably, the oblong hollow body defines a watertight cavity.

Preferably, said at least one circuit board comprises a power supply circuit, a microprocessor, and a memory.

Preferably, said battery power supply unit is cylindrical in shape.

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Preferably, said at least one circuit board at least partially surrounds said battery power supply unit.

Preferably, the microprocessor is programmed to manage at least one gear change.

Preferably, the integrated device comprises a plurality of elements between power supply, signal and / or data cables, more preferably it is equipped with respective end connectors for connection with at least one other device integrated in an integrated electronic system. .

Preferably, each cable protrudes from a longitudinal end face of the integrated device.

Alternatively or additionally, the oblong hollow body of the integrated device may comprise at least one second groove that extends substantially along its main longitudinal direction, for the passage of at least one cable between the integrated device and the bicycle frame .

As outlined above, the provision of a groove for housing the frame inserts provides a number of advantages. The Applicant has also noted that said groove may suffice to limit the displacement of the integrated device within the seat tube, even in the absence of screws or other means of fixing the bottle cage, possibly providing a slightly forced insertion of one or both inserts within the groove. and / or an expanded material around the integrated device.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a device integrated in a bicycle with an oblong shape and comprising a cavity that preferably contains a battery power supply unit, and at least one circuit board, being the device sized for insertion into an oblong bicycle element, preferably a seat tube of a bicycle frame, characterized by presenting a groove that extends along its main longitudinal direction and dimensioned to receive at least one projection that projects inside said oblong element of the bicycle, preferably a portion of at least one insert of a frame of the bicycle to fix the bottle cage

Preferably, the integrated device further comprises a seat for a removable connector for a cable.

Preferably, the groove extends from one end of the device and has an adjacent contact surface at the opposite end of the groove.

Preferably, the integrated device further comprises two seats for fixing devices, said two seats being spaced apart along a longitudinal direction of the integrated device.

Preferably, the two seats comprise two threaded holes.

Preferably, the two seats are made on the bottom of said groove.

Also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, is a set of an integrated bicycle device as stated above and a corresponding support.

It is also disclosed, outside the scope of the claimed invention, a method for mounting an integrated device of a bicycle comprising the steps of inserting said device into a seat tube of a bicycle frame, and fixing said device to the frame by means of at least one fixing means coincident with a fixing means of a bottle cage.

Preferably, the method comprises the steps of positioning the device in at least one perforated insert of the bicycle frame intended to fix the bottle cage, and its fixation by means of at least one fixing screw of the bottle cage by means of said at least one a perforated insert.

In one case, said step of positioning the device comprises the steps of providing a through hole in the integrated device, which extends substantially perpendicular to a main longitudinal direction of the integrated device, the screwing of a first end of a semi-rigid cable into the hole of a lower insert of the bicycle frame, extracting said first end from the upper end of the seat tube, the passage of said first end into the through hole, the return to the screwing of said first end into the seat tube, the extraction of said first end of the housing box of the lower mount assembly, and the extraction of the two ends of the cable out of the frame.

In one case, said step of positioning the device comprises the step of temporarily fixing a rigid bar on an upper end of the integrated device, with a length such as to still partially protrude from the seat tube when the integrated device is correctly positioned.

Additional characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent more clearly from the description of some preferred embodiments thereof, made with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

ES 2 652 020 T3 the FlG. 1 illustrates schematically a bicycle incorporating an integrated device according to some embodiments of an assembly of the invention mounted thereon;

the FlG. 2 is an exploded view of an embodiment of an integrated device of an assembly according to the invention;

the FlG. 3 is a perspective view of the integrated device of the FlG. two;

the FlG. 4 is a perspective view, partially in longitudinal section, of the integrated device of the FlG. two;

the FlG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the integrated FlG device. 2, in the assembled state, taken along the V-V sectional plane of the FlG. 7;

the FlG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the integrated FlG device. 2, taken along the plane in section VI - VI of the FlG. 3;

the FlG. 7 is a perspective view of the integrated device of the FlG. 2, in the assembled state, in which the bicycle seat tube is shown in section;

the FlG. 8 is a perspective view of the integrated device of the FlG. 2, in the assembled state, in which the bicycle frame is shown in section;

the FlG. 9 is a perspective view of the integrated device of the FlG. 2, in an alternative mounting state, in which the bicycle seat post is shown in longitudinal section; the FlG. 10 is a partially sectional perspective view of a detail of the FlG. 9;

the FlG. 11 is a partially sectional perspective view of a detail of the FlG. 9, in an assembly stage;

the FlG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an integrated device of an assembly according to the invention;

the FlG. 13 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an integrated device of an assembly according to the invention;

the FlG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an integrated device of a set according to the invention:

the FlG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an integrated device of an assembly according to the invention;

the FlG. 16 is a perspective view and partially exploded view of the integrated device of the FlG. 15, in the installed state, in which the bicycle seat tube is shown in section and in an assembled state of a connector;

the FlG. 17 is a perspective view of the integrated device of the FlG. 15, in the assembled state, in which the bicycle seat tube is shown in section and in another assembled state of a connector;

FIGs. 18 and 19 show two different perspective views of a first embodiment of a support of an assembly of the invention, for mounting an integrated device on a bicycle outside the frame;

Fig. 20 shows the support of FIGs. 18-19 mounted on a horizontal tube of the rear support;

the FlG. 21 shows the support of FIGs. 18-19 mounted on a horizontal tube of the rear support, with the integrated device inserted;

the FlG. 22 shows the support of FIGs. 18-19 mounted on the down tube;

FIGs. 23 and 24 show two different perspective views of a second embodiment of a support of an assembly of the invention, for mounting an externally integrated bicycle device on the frame;

the FlG. 25 shows the support of FIGs. 23-24 mounted on a horizontal tube of the rear support;

the FlG. 26 shows a representative bracket of an embodiment of a bracket of an assembly of the invention, for mounting an externally integrated bicycle device on the frame;

ES 2 652 020 T3 the FlG. 27 shows the support of the FlG. 26 mounted on a horizontal tube of the rear support;

the FlG. 28 shows the support of the FlG. 26 mounted on a horizontal tube of the rear support, with the integrated device inserted;

the FlG. 29 shows the support of the FlG. 26 mounted on a down tube; and the FlG. 30 shows the integrated device of the FlG. 15 mounted directly on the outside of the frame.

The FlG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary bicycle 100, incorporating an integrated device 10 in accordance with some embodiments of an assembly of the invention mounted thereon.

In a manner known per se, the bicycle 100 comprises a frame 110, a seat post 130, at least partially inserted into the upper end of a frame 110 seat tube 112 and equipped with a saddle 132 at its upper end, some handlebars 134, a fork 136 rotatably mounted within a front tube 126, a front wheel 138 rotatably supported at the lower end of fork 136, a rear wheel 140, rotatably supported at the rear of frame 110, a propulsion mechanism 142 and at least one member between a front brake 144 and a rear brake 146.

The frame 110 in the embodiment shown is of the rhomboid type, comprising the aforementioned seat tube 112, the aforementioned front tube 126, an upper tube 114, a lower tube 116, and four more tubes of the supports 118, 120, 122, 124 as well as a housing box for lower mount assembly 128 (FlG 8). The rear supports 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 more specifically comprise the down tube 116, a pair of seat tubes 118, 120 extending obliquely downward and rearward from the point where the seat tube 112 and the top tube 114 converge and the seat post 130 is mounted, and a pair of tubes 122, 124 extending substantially horizontally rearward from the point where seat post 112 and down tube 116 meet and there is a bottom mount assembly 128 housing box, one of which 122 is also referred to as a pod in the countryside.

The frame 110 may however have other shapes and, in particular, may have an integrated seat post, so that it lacks the seat post 130.

Typically, the propulsion mechanism 142 comprises a pair of crank arms 148, 149 equipped with pedals 150, 151 to actuate an axis of the bottom mount assembly (not shown) in rotation, rotatably supported within the case. of the housing of the assembly 128 of the bottom mount and on which at least one front sprocket 154 is coupled; at least one rear sprocket 156 disposed on the rear wheel 140 and a chain 158 each time extending between a front sprocket 154 and a rear sprocket 156. In the case of a drive mechanism 142 with a variable gear ratio, there is also a front gearshift 160 to move the chain 158 between the front sprockets and / or a rear gearshift 162 to move the chain 158 between the gears. 156 rear sprockets.

Devices 164 for controlling brakes 144, 146 and / or gearshifts 160, 162 are typically disposed at the ends of handlebars 134, as shown, or may be attached in a convenient position on frame 110. Said devices may comprise levers and / or buttons to generate commands for the electrical actuation of the brakes 144, 146 and / or the gear changes 160, 162 or to actuate them mechanically, as for example by means of a Bowden cable.

An integrated electronic system mounted on the bicycle 100 comprises one or more of the following devices or components (many of which are not shown): the aforementioned control devices 164, an electric motor for moving each gear change 160, 162, a speed sensor, a position sensor for each gear change 160, 162, a speed sensor, a cadence sensor pedaling, an inclinometer, a tachometer, a heart rate monitor or other sensors, a display unit, an audio unit, as well as at least one battery power supply unit, preferably, rechargeable type, one or more processors, and a memory means for the operation of said devices and / or to collect the memorized data. There may also be a multimedia content reader for example music, video, images, including geographic map files, a digital camera, a camcorder, a voice recording unit, a mobile phone unit and / or other applications.

The various components described above are wired and / or wirelessly connected to each other, and may be located at various locations on the bicycle.

An embodiment of an integrated device 10 of an assembly according to the invention, which may constitute or be a component of said integrated electronic system, is shown schematically in the FlG. 1 in its assembled state within the seat tube 112, and in detail in FIGs. 2 to 8.

ES 2 652 020 T3

The integrated device 10 comprises an oblong hollow body 12, which defines an internal cavity 13 in which a battery power supply unit 14 and at least one circuit board 16 are housed.

In the embodiment shown, the circuit board 16 is a so-called switch board, that is, it contains the electronic elements to control gear changes 160, 162 and to detect their position. In this embodiment, the integrated device 10 is connected with the gearshifts 160, 162 and with the manual control devices 164, for example by means of the cables 24. The circuit board 16 may comprise a power supply circuit that receives power from the battery power supply unit 14 and conducts it to the other components of the integrated device 10 and / or the integrated system, a recharging circuit that receives the electrical energy from an external source such as the mains or a dynamo and transmits it to the battery power supply unit 14, a circuit to manage the gear changes 160, 162 and a circuit to manage the various sensors.

The electronic elements to manage the gear ratios, in an automatic mode, or based on manual controls introduced for example through manual control devices 164 or in a semi-automatic mode, also based on signals from possible sensors, they are housed in integrated device 10 and / or manual control devices 164.

The oblong hollow body 12 is manufactured, for example, from a plastic material and is configured and dimensioned to be housed within the seat tube 112. The oblong hollow body 12 has a base 18 and a cover 19 that define a lateral surface, an upper longitudinal end 20 and a lower longitudinal end 22, the adjectives used being upper and lower in order to facilitate the understanding of the disclosure, with reference to the assembled state of device 10 shown in FIG. 7. In other mounting states, device 10 could be mounted upside down or essentially horizontal.

A plurality of power, signal and / or data feed cables 24 extend from the circuit board 16 and exit the oblong hollow body 12 at its lower longitudinal end face 22 as shown and / or at its longitudinal end face 20 higher.

The cables 24, preferably, are equipped with respective removable connectors (cf. removable connector 86 in FIG. 15) for their connection with other devices of the electronic system and / or with a power supply source to recharge the battery. battery power supply unit 14.

The oblong hollow body 12 is advantageously sealed. For example, the cover 19 is welded by ultrasound, by adhesive or screwed with interposition of a gasket to the base 18. Insulating material can also be arranged at the exit of the cables 24 through pertinent holes 25 (FIG. 5).

The oblong hollow body 12 has a groove 28 extending in parallel with its main longitudinal direction X, hereinafter referred to as the axis X for the sake of brevity. Groove 28 extends from lower end 22.

Groove 28 is preferably flared and / or tapered towards lower end 22.

In the embodiment shown, the groove is made partly within the cover 19 and partly within the base 18 of the oblong hollow body 12 and thus presents a short interruption 29.

In the embodiment shown, the groove 28 does not extend to the upper end 20, but instead has a bearing surface 30 that extends substantially transverse to the axis X.

Groove 28 is dimensioned to receive a portion of two inserts 166, 168 (FIG., 5, 7, 8) that are disposed, in a substantially standardized manner, in seat tube 112 to secure a bottle cage and projecting toward the interior of the seat tube 112.

Alternatively, the groove 28 could receive only the upper insert 168.

Thanks to the groove 28 described, the transverse size of the oblong hollow body 12 can correspond in any part - and in particular in its upper portion - essentially to the internal transverse size, in particular to the internal diameter, of the seat tube 112 and / or the longitudinal size of the device 10 can be maximized.

The oblong hollow body 12, slid into the seat tube 112 with the groove 28 in the appropriate angular position (approximately the X axis), thereby engaging the inserts 166, 168, possibly remaining suspended slightly above the case. lower mount assembly housing 128.

In any case, the seating of the inserts 166, 168 within the groove 28, especially if the groove is not oversized or even if it is slightly diminished so that the seating of the inserts 166, 168 is forced, prevents the rotation of the device 10 about the X axis and also the oscillating tilt displacements with respect to the X axis.

ES 2 652 020 T3

To further prevent displacement of the device 10 within the seat tube 112, on the bottom of the groove 28, in the embodiment shown there are two holes 32, 34 equipped with internal threads that coincide with the internal threading of two screws 170 , 172 (FIG. 7) to fix the bottle cage (cf. bottle cage 194 of FIG. 17).

In the embodiment shown, the internal threading of holes 32, 34 is the same as that of inserts 166, 168. To facilitate the engagement of the screw 170 with the internal thread of the hole 32 even though it is already partially screwed into the insert 166, in the embodiment shown the hole 32 internally threaded on the side of the lower end 22 is made in a bushing 36 which is lodged with a clearance in a smooth hole 40 of the oblong hollow body 12, as can be seen more clearly in FIGS. 4, 6. The bushing 36 is biased longitudinally, for example by a helical spring 44 acting on a flange 37 of the bushing 36, and the bushing 36 and spring 44 are longitudinally retained by adjacent contact surfaces 48, 50. The bushing 36 and spring 44 are inserted into the smooth bore 40 through an opening 38 in the oblong body 12.

The internally threaded hole 34 provided on the upper end side 20 could be made in a similar manner, but in the embodiment shown it is instead made in the form of a conventional nut 35.

As shown with reference to FIGs. 4 and 7, in one embodiment, in the face of the upper longitudinal end 20 of the device 10 there may be an internally threaded hole 60 or a bayonet seat or other seat to temporarily fix a rigid rod 62, of a length such as to still partially protrudes from the seat tube 112 when the integrated device 10 is correctly positioned in the bottle cage, to enable the integrated device 10 to be maneuvered into the correct position. Once the integrated device 10 has been correctly inserted, and after possibly being secured with the screws 170, 172 to secure the bottle cage, the bar 62 is removed from the seat 60 and also removed from the seat tube 112.

Alternatively or additionally, as shown in FIG. 8, the hole 32, if it is a through hole as shown, may act as a seat for the temporary passage of a semi-rigid cable 64 as a mounting aid. As an alternative to using the hole 32, a special through hole may be incorporated which extends into the integrated device 10 substantially perpendicular to the axis X (cf. reference numeral 84 in FIG. 15). A first end 66 of the semi-rigid cable 64, for example a steel cable, is threaded into the hole of the lower insert 166 of the frame 110, extracted from the upper end of the seat tube 112, passed into the through hole 32 until it is inserted into the special seat, re-threaded into the seat tube 112 and removed from the housing housing of the bottom mount assembly 128. By pulling the two ends of the cable 64 away from the frame 110, the integrated device 10 is positioned correctly, with the hole 32 equipped with an internal thread coaxial with the insert 166 of the frame.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 11, the oblong hollow body 12, at the upper longitudinal end 20, has alternative means to be attached depending on the seat post 130 (as shown) or the seat tube 112.

The alternative attachment means shown comprise an expander 70, known per se, to lock by radial pressure against the inner wall of seat post 130 (as shown) or seat tube 112. The expander 70 is a substantially cylindrical body having an adjusting bolt 72 extending in the axial direction and a plurality of elements 74, the radial extension of which can be adjusted by means of the adjusting bolt 72. Preferably, both ends 72A, 72B of adjusting bolt 72 are accessible and maneuverable.

The expander 70 is shown as a separate component from the oblong hollow body 12, the two being capable of being connected to each other by means of mating connection means, preferably of the dovetail type 76, 78. A spike coupling it is also arranged to prevent mutual rotational movement about the axis X between the expander 70 and the oblong hollow body 12, and to further ensure the coupling between the two pieces.

For exterior suspended mounting of seat post 130, expander 70 is initially inserted into seat post 130 (FIG. 11) and bolt 72 is actuated from end 72A to lock expander 70 on the inner surface of seat post 130; the oblong hollow body 12 is then attached to the expander 70 via the dovetail systems 76, 78 and preferably attached by inserting the pin 80 into the coaxial holes 81A and 81B that extend transversely within expander 70 and within oblong hollow body 12, respectively.

For suspended mounting of the seat tube 112 or inserted into the seat post 130, the oblong hollow body 12 is finally attached to the expander 70 by means of the dovetail systems 76, 78 and, preferably, through the spike coupling: the assembly of the two is then inserted into seat tube 112 or seat post 130 and bolt 72 is actuated from end 72B to lock expander 70 on the inner surface of seat tube 112 or seat post. seat post 130.

ES 2 652 020 T3

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the device 10a that differs from that illustrated and described above in that the groove 28a extends along the entire length of the oblong body 12, the abutment surface 30 disappearing.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of device 10b that differs from those illustrated and described above in that the groove 28 disappears. To increase the internal space of device 10b, the part on the side of the upper end 20, upstream of the hole 34, could have a larger transverse size than the portion on the lower end 22 side, containing the holes 32, 34. In other words, the oblong hollow body 12 could be stepped.

FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of device 10c that differs from that illustrated in FIG. 13 insofar as it has a groove 26 dimensioned to house one or more cables 24, which extends substantially in the main longitudinal direction of the oblong hollow body 12 to allow the possible passage of the cables 24 between the oblong hollow body 12 and the tube 112 of the seat (or seat post 130). Cables 24 are also shown, by way of example, exiting the upper end 20 of oblong body 12.

The cables 24 may also exit the side surface of the oblong hollow body 12, over the bottom of the groove 26 to accommodate the cables when arranged.

Said cable groove 26, or even more than one, may also be present in the other embodiments shown.

FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of the device 10d, described herein for what differs in relation to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 - 8.

The device 10d comprises a groove 82 extending in a direction transverse to the axis X, in which an anti-vibration insert 83 is seated, preferably in a removable manner. Groove 82 is shown substantially at the upper end 20 of device 10d, but could be arranged elsewhere, just as other grooves with anti-vibration insert could be arranged. The anti-vibration insert 83 is a part or a pair of O-rings made of rubber, silicone or other elastomeric materials and has the function, in effect, of absorbing vibrations particularly when the device 10d is inserted into the tube 112 of the bicycle seat. .

The device 10d further comprises a seat 84 for a removable connector 86 fixed on one of the cables 24, which lead to the internal battery of the device 10d or to a recharging circuit of the same. By coupling the removable connector 86 with a matching removable connector 174 (FIG. 16) of a cable 176 leading to a power source, possibly through a recharging device, it is therefore possible to recharge the battery. device 10d.

Seat 84 is preferably fabricated into flange 85 projecting into lower end 22 of device 10d. The flange 85 is preferably located in a plane slightly inclined with respect to the geometric axis X (angle α) so that it and the connector 86 do not interfere with the inserts 166, 168 during the insertion of the device 10d into the tube 112 of the seat. Seat 84 is preferably a smooth hole.

The removable connector 86 is equipped with a peripheral flange 87 and an external thread 88 to receive a nut 89. In order to fix the removable connector 86 in position, the flange 85 of the seat 84 is clamped between the peripheral flange 87 and the nut. 89 when nut 89 is screwed onto external thread 88.

The removable connector 86 may be differently engaged with the seat 84, for example screwed into an internal thread of the seat 84 or forced into the seat 84.

The removable connector 86 is preferably equipped with a cap 90 to protect its terminals when not mated with the matching removable connector 174.

As shown in FIG. 16, when the device 10d is mounted on the seat tube 112, in the frame 110 of the bicycle a hole 178 is made to access the removable connector 86 with a diameter adjusted to the diameter of the matching connector 174. In this way, recharging the internal battery of device 10d can take place without disassembling it from frame 110.

For the sake of completeness, FIG. 16 also shows a different means for attaching the bottle cage (cf. bottle cage 194 of FIG. 179 and device 10d with respect to screws 170, 172 shown in FIG. 17. Said fixing means comprise two studs 171, 173 intended to be screwed into the inserts 166, 168 of the frame 112 and into the holes 32, 34 of the integrated device 10d, the bottle cage being fixed by means of nuts 180, 182 to studs 171, 173. The studs 171, 173 preferably comprise a flange 184, 186 adapted to contact outside the frame 110, and a recessed hexagonal seat 188, 190 or other so shaped seat so that it can be maneuvered by a tool to tighten them. By way of example only, flange 184 is shown square in shape and flange 186 is shown round, but both flanges 184 and 186 can be round or square or have another shape that enables them to be

ES 2 652 020 T3 manipulated by means of a tightening tool as an alternative to the use of the recessed hexagonal seat 188, 190.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 17, when the device 10d is mounted on the seat tube 12, the frame 110 of the bicycle a seat 192 is made to house the removable connector 86, to be used in a similar way and as an alternative to the seat 84 of the device 10d.

In order to be complete, FIG. 17 also shows a 194 bottle cage.

Also in this case the recharging of the internal battery of the device 10d can take place without disassembling it from the frame 110.

Returning to FIG. 15, the device 10d also comprises, on the bottom of the groove 28 and between the holes 32 and 34 destined to fix the device 10d integrated in the bottle cage, a seat 92 to fix a wedge (not shown) to be applied in the case of that the inserts 166, 168 of the seat tube 112 project too little into the seat tube 112. In the embodiment shown, the seat 92 comprises two threaded holes 94, 96, but it is possible to use any other means to fix said wedge.

In device 10d there could be only one of grooves 82 with anti-vibration device 83, seat 84 for a removable connector 86, and seat 92 for a wedge.

Furthermore, each groove 82 with the anti-vibration device 83, the seat 84 for a removable connector 86, and the seat 92 for a wedge could also be provided for other embodiments of the integrated device.

FIGs. 18 and 19 show a first embodiment of a support 200 of an assembly of the invention, for mounting an integrated device of a bicycle outside the frame 110, in particular an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d as described above.

Bracket 200 is oblong in shape, substantially laying out the shape of the side or shell surface of a hollow solid. The support 200 has a first wall 202, a second wall 204 opposite it and two walls 206, 207 connecting them. There are no end walls.

The walls 202, 204, 206, 207 are shaped in such a way that they form, on the outside, a support 200 that is sufficiently aerodynamic and, internally, an oblong seat 208 to house the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d , open at both longitudinal ends.

The first wall 202 has first openings 210, one of which is intended to receive a stem of a first device 214 for fixing the frame 110, for example a screw, and second openings 212, one of which is intended to receive a stem of a second fixation device 216. The first openings 210 and the second openings 212 are spaced along a longitudinal direction Y of the support 200.

By way of example only, three first openings 210 are shown, but there could be fewer than first openings 210, even just one (outside the scope of the claimed invention), or more than three.

Each first opening 210 is a multi-hole opening, namely an opening having a configuration corresponding to several aligned circular holes offering a distance between centers and which is preferably less than the diameter as shown. The multiple holes are aligned along a Z direction transverse to bracket 200. In the embodiment shown, each opening 210 corresponds to two aligned holes, but these could be more than two.

Each first aperture 210 is thus configured to receive a stem of the first fixture 214 alternately in one of the two aligned holes - or in each of the aligned holes if there are more than two - in other words, in a manner staggered at separate positions in the first aperture 210 along the transverse direction Z. The stem of the fixing device 214, is appropriately sized, it cannot slide inside the opening 210 and therefore its position, along the transverse direction Z, is fixed, once the hole intended to be used it has been established.

Alternatively, each first aperture 210 could be configured as a slit (cf. second apertures 212), exhibiting a major axis extending along the transverse direction Z of support 200. Each slit-like opening 210 is configured to receive the stem of the first fixture 214 at innumerable positions spaced apart in the first aperture 210 along the transverse direction Z, but the stem of the fixture 214 can slide within the aperture 210 and therefore vibrate if it is not properly tightened on the frame 110.

By way of example only, in the first wall 202 of the support 200 three second openings 212 are shown, but there could be fewer of these second openings 212, even just one (outside the scope of the claimed invention), or more than three.

ES 2 652 020 T3

Each second opening 212 is a slit having a major axis extending along the longitudinal direction Y of the support 200. The shape of the slit is hardly recognizable in FIGS. 18 and 19 since the major axis is not much longer than the minor axis, but in other embodiments the slit could be more elongated. Alternatively, only some of the second openings could be a shaped slit, or with multiple holes similar to the first openings 210 shown, but with the holes aligned along the longitudinal direction Y of the bracket 200.

Each second opening 212 is thus configured to receive a stem of the second frame fixing device 216 110, at two or more separate positions in the second opening 212 along the longitudinal direction Y.

Also alternatively, one or more of the second openings 212 could be simple holes, configured to receive the stem of the second fixation device 216 in a single position.

Although the first openings 210 are shown spaced at regular intervals and grouped together, and the second openings 212 are shown spaced at regular intervals and grouped together, the first openings 210 could alternate with the second openings 212 or the first openings and the first openings. second openings could be distributed differently along the longitudinal direction Y. The distances between the various openings 210, 212 could be any, not necessarily constant.

The second wall 204 of the support 200 has two perforated protruding seats 218, 219 for two devices 220, 221 for fixing to the integrated device, such as screws.

The perforated projecting seats 218, 219 preferably have through slots as shown, which have a longer axis along the longitudinal direction Y of the support 200. In this way, thanks also to the opening of the seat 208 at both ends, the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d can be made to slide inside the seat 208 along the longitudinal direction Y of the support 200, that is, along the longitudinal axis X of the integrated device, and to be housed within at least two separate positions.

Similarly, the degree of freedom in the longitudinal positioning of the device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d integrated in the support 200 can be obtained with n non-perforated projecting seats 218, 219 for a forced coupling, without using the fixing devices 218, 219 between the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d and the support 200.

Alternatively, the perforated projection seats 218, 219 can be equipped with a simple circular hole, forcing the position of the device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d integrated in the seat 208 of the support 200 when the fixing devices 218, 219 are inserted.

The protruding seats 218, 219 are dimensioned, along the transverse direction Z, in a similar way to the inserts 166, 168 of the frame 110 intended to be attached to the bottle cage 194, so that the seat 208 is specially configured for use. integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d described above, being configured as the interior of the seat tube 112 in the bottle cage.

As shown, preferably first wall 202 and second wall 204 are opposite each other and off-center in the longitudinal direction Y of support 200, such that support 200 is shaped like the housing surface of a solid. hollow having an oblique base and a top with respect to the longitudinal axis. In this way it is possible to easily access the first openings 210 with a tool for maneuvering the first fixing element 214, such as a screwdriver, while still offering, in the longitudinal direction Y, an appropriate length to contain and support the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d.

To allow easy access also to the second openings 212 with a tool for maneuvering the second fastener 216, the second wall 204 preferably incorporates one or more openings, such as the openings 222, 223 shown, which also have the function of lightening them.

Openings 224, 225 for weight reduction and / or to gain access to fasteners can also be made in junction walls 206, 207, as shown.

The position of the first openings 210 and the second openings 212 of the first wall 202 could be reversed making the second openings 212 accessible to maneuver the second fastening element 216 directly and the first openings 210 maneuvering the first element 214 from fixing through openings 222, 223.

The support 200 is fixed to the frame 110 by arranging the first wall 202 up to an element of the frame 110, inserting the fixing device 214 in an appropriate position among all those offered by the first openings 210, and inserting the fixing device 216 in a position appropriate among all those offered by the second openings 212, and squeezing them. The integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d is then inserted

ES 2 652 020 T3 into the seat 208 from one of its open longitudinal ends causing it to slide along the longitudinal direction, until the seat openings 218, 219 are aligned with the holes 32, 34. Through the fixing devices 220, 221, the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d is finally fixed to the support 200 and therefore to the frame 110.

By way of example, in FIGs. 20 and 21 the bracket 200 is shown mounted on a horizontal tube 124 of the rear bracket, respectively without and with the integrated device inserted, and in FIG. 22, bracket 22 is shown mounted on down tube 116, with the integrated device inserted. As an example only, the integrated device shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 is in particular the integrated device 10d of FIG. fifteen.

When in particular the frame element is an oblong element, such as the horizontal tube 124 of the rear bracket or the down tube 116, the bracket 200 is oriented in such a way that the longitudinal direction Y is parallel and therefore coincides with the direction longitudinal of the frame element 124, 116, and in such a way that the transverse direction Z is parallel and therefore coincides with the transverse direction of the frame element 124, 116.

Since the horizontal tube 124 of the rear support typically has a bend and in general has a size and profile that depends on the frame manufacturer and the model, precisely with other oblong frame elements, the presence of many positions of the fixing device 214 spaced along the transverse direction Z is exploited to fix the bracket 200 to the frame element so that the bracket 200, and the integrated device contained therein, extend as far as possible along said frame element, with advantages in terms of exterior appearance, aerodynamics and safety since the device can in this way be mounted to project as little as possible transversely from the frame element 110. Indeed, by appropriately selecting the position of the first fixing device 214 among all those arranged for - and also the position of the second fixing device 216 where different positions are arranged according to the invention - the support 200 can be adapted to different amounts of divergence from a rectilinear profile of the frame element to which it is attached.

Furthermore, the support 200, with its oblique shape, is particularly useful in the case of fixing in the lower part of the frame 110, close to the lower frame assembly 128, since the offset between the first and second walls 202, 204 makes possible that the bracket is easily fixed to the frame 110 despite the presence of the pedal cranks 148, 149 and the sprockets 154, at the same time housing the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, once it has been slid into seat 208, in close proximity to lower mount assembly 128, in a position at least partially concealed by pedal link 149 and / or sprockets 154.

FIGs. 23 and 24 show a second embodiment of a support 200a of an assembly of the invention, for mounting on an integrated device of a bicycle outside the frame 110, in particular an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d .

In this embodiment, the oblong seat 208 for the integrated device is open at one longitudinal end, but closed by an end wall 226 at the opposite longitudinal end.

The seats 218, 219 for the integrated device fixing devices 220, 221 are threaded holes made in a projecting rib 229, adapted to engage with the groove 28 of the device 10d. By providing the threaded holes, the longitudinal position of the device integrated in the bracket 200a is uniquely defined when the fixing devices 220, 221 are used (not shown in FIGS. 23, 24). However, it is possible to precisely use the forced engagement of precisely the rib arranged in the groove 28 of the integrated device or, vice versa, precisely the engagement of the devices 200, 221 for fixing the holes 32, 34 of the integrated device, avoiding the rib 229 overhang and / or groove 28.

The terminal wall 226 has a seat 228, for example a circular hole, for the removable connector 86 of the power supply and / or for the recharging cable 24 of the integrated device or for another connector, to be used in a similar way and as an alternative to seat 84 of device 10d described with reference to FIG. fifteen.

In this embodiment, the first and second walls 202, 204 are not off-center, likewise, with respect to the support 200, one of the two joining walls 207 is absent.

By way of example, in FIG. 25, the bracket 200a is shown mounted on a horizontal tube 124 of the rear bracket, with the integrated device inserted. By way of example only, the integrated device shown is specifically the integrated device 10d of FIG. fifteen.

The various differences in the embodiment of the support 200a from the embodiment of the support 200 are independent of each other and the embodiments can be designed to combine aspects of one with aspects of the other.

ES 2 652 020 T3

FIG. 26 shows a representative support 200b of a third embodiment of an assembly of the invention, for mounting in an integrated device of a bicycle outside on the frame 110, in particular an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d .

The support 200b comprises two flanges 230, 232 adapted to circularly hold the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d and together define the seat 208 for the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d. There could also be three or more flanges.

The first flange 230 comprises a first opening 210 and the second flange comprises a second opening 212, each configured in one of the ways previously described in relation to FIG. 18. The first opening 210 is configured to allow two positions of the stem of the first device 214 for its attachment to the frame, spaced along the transverse direction Z of the seat 208 and, therefore, of the support 200b as a whole and of the oblong element of the frame. bicycle to which the bracket 200b is attached. In the case shown, the second opening 212 is configured as a single hole and therefore allows a single position of the stem of the second device 216 for fixing to the frame, but according to the invention there will be a second opening 212 analogous to those previously described , which allows two or more separate positions along the longitudinal Y direction of the seat 208 and therefore of the support 200b as a whole and of the oblong element of the bicycle. Outside the scope of the claimed invention there could also be a second opening 212 that would also allow two or more separate positions along the transverse direction Z of the seat 208 and therefore of the support 200b as a whole and of the oblong element of the bicycle (cfr FIG. 27).

By forming the two openings 210, 212 in different flanges, it is possible to modify the distance between the first and second fixing devices 214, 216 to adapt them to the oblong element 110 of the bicycle and / or to the device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d integrated, simply by modifying the distance between the flanges 230, 232. A single first opening 210 and a single second opening 212 could therefore be sufficient to some extent, as shown. However, according to the invention, there are more first openings 210 and more second openings 212.

Preferably, each flange 230, 232 has means for adjusting the clamping force around the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, by loosening it to make it possible to manufacture the device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d. integrated to slide along the frame element 110 or remove it from the bracket 200b. Said clamping force adjusting means comprise, in the embodiment shown only as an example, a partition 234 of the flange 230, 232 and a screw 236 extending into a hole 238 passing through one end of the clamp. flange 230, 232 near gap 234 and into a blind hole (not visible) at the opposite end of the flange, also near gap 234.

Each flange 230, 232 preferably also has some rubber inserts 240 on its inner surface, with an anti-vibration function.

The anti-vibration rubber inserts can be arranged in the supports 200, 200a of the other embodiments on the surface of the seat 208 intended to contact the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d.

As an example, in FIGS. 27 and 28 the bracket 200b is shown mounted on a horizontal tube 124 of the rear seat, respectively, without or with the integrated device inserted, and in FIG 29 the bracket 200b is shown mounted on the down tube 116, with the integrated device inserted . By way of example only, the integrated device shown in FIGs. 28 and 29 is specifically the integrated device 10d of FIG. fifteen.

In FIG. 27, it can be seen that the first and second fixing devices 214, 216 are inserted in non-corresponding positions on the first and second flanges 230, 232 so that the integrated device 10d extends as far as possible along of the horizontal tube 124 of the rear support, as can be seen in FIG. 28.

In FIG. 30, the integrated device 10d of FIG. 15 is shown mounted directly on the outside on an oblong element of the frame 110 or capable of being associated with the frame, for example the seat post 130 or the handlebars 134, generically indicated as oblong element 242 of the bicycle. The integrated device 10d is secured by means of the fastening elements 244, 246, for example screws that extend transversely through the oblong element 242 of the bicycle, in two pairs of holes 247, 248 and 249, 250 aligned through the element 242 oblong bicycle. The fastening elements 244, 246 are screwed into the threaded holes 32, 34 of the integrated device 10d.

Direct mounting externally on the frame described above is also possible for the other integrated devices 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d described above, if they are provided with the holes 32, 34.

In the previous lines, therefore, an innovative set of an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d and a corresponding support 200, 200a, 200b has been described that offers the possibility of mounting the device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d integrated in one or more positions between the outside of the frame 110, directly or through the

ES 2 652 020 T3 bracket and, without bracket 200, 200a, 200b Inserted in an oblong element of the bicycle or suspended in an oblong element of the bicycle, in particular inserted in the seat tube 112 in the bottle cage 194, or suspended on the seat tube 112 or suspended from the seat post 130.

An innovative bicycle frame 110 or a seat post 130 or handlebars 134 with an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d mounted on an oblong element thereof, in particular an upper tube of the rear support or of the downcomer tube 116 next to the lower mount assembly 128, in which the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d is housed within the support 200, 200a, 200b and can be positioned, with respect to the oblong element, at least two different positions along the length Y direction of the oblong element.

An innovative bicycle frame 110 or a seat post 130 or handlebars 134 with an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d mounted on an oblong element thereof, in particular a horizontal tube of the rear support or of the downcomer tube 116 next to lower mount assembly 128, in which the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d is housed in the bracket 200, 200a, 200b and may be located, with respect to the oblong element, with at least two different inclinations with respect to the longitudinal direction Y of the oblong element.

Also described is an innovative support 200, 200a, 200b for an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d incorporating a seat for a removable connector 86 of a cable 74, more preferably of a recharging cable of device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d integrated.

An innovative bicycle frame 110 is also described with a seat 192 for mounting a removable connector 86 of a cable 74, more preferably of a recharging cable of the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d capable of being integrated within frame 110. Similarly, the seat may be arranged on a seat post 130 or on handlebars 134.

Also described is an innovative bicycle frame 110 with an integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d inserted within the seat tube 112 and a hole 178 for accessing a removable connector 86 of a cable 74, most preferably of a recharging cable of the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d. Similarly, the access hole may be disposed within a seat post 130 or on handlebars 134 into which the integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d is inserted.

Although they have been shown in connection with the integrated device 10d of FIG. 15, the supports 200, 200a, 200b are adapted for any of the integrated devices 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d shown above and their described variants, and can easily be adapted to generic integrated devices, which do not incorporate the means described for fix inside the seat tube 112 or seat post 130.

In the described embodiments, advantageously the groove 28, 28a with the means 32, 34 for fixing the screws of the bottle cage when incorporated, and / or alternative fixing means such as for example the expander 70, can be manufactured in a metal plate that can be removably associated with the oblong hollow body 12, for example made from a plastic material. In this way, it is possible to increase the strength and / or to manufacture a single oblong hollow body and a series of plates, each adapted for different sizes and / or distances between the centers of the inserts 166, 168 to fix the bottle cage.

As an alternative, at the expense of the size of the internal cavity 13 it is possible to have more than one groove 28, 28a, with possible fixing means to the oblong element of the bicycle and / or to the support, in different angular positions (around the geometric axis X).

It should be understood that the integrated device described in the previous lines is also adapted for seat tubes or for oblong frame elements, handlebars and seat posts, with a non-circular cross section and / or for frames with integrated seat posts.

Furthermore, in the reference set forth above, the seat tube 112 and the inserts 166, 168 arranged therein to fix the bottle cage by means of fixing devices 170, 172 or 171, 173 have often been mentioned. Indeed, as described in the introductory part of the claim, bicycle frames typically incorporate said inserts 166, 168 for their arrangement for fixing the bottle cage along the seat tube, said inserts being standard in terms of screwing, in terms of its dimensions, and in terms of its distance between the centers. The integrated device described in the previous lines, therefore, is preferably configured to be able to be fixed in said inserts 166, 168, preferably inserted inside the seat tube 112 to exploit existing standards and therefore to be substantially universal.

Regardless, the integrated device described in the previous lines can be inserted into or mounted outside of another oblong bicycle element, for example in the down tube 116 or in the front tube 126 or in any other part where there are inserts. analogous to those arranged to fix the bottle cage.

ES 2 652 020 T3

The reference to an oblong element of the frame 110 or in particular to the seat tube 112 should therefore be considered more generally - but outside the scope of the claimed invention - as a reference to an oblong element of a bicycle, including a seat post. 130 seat and 134 handlebars.

In more general terms, the integrated device described above can be applied to inserts or reinforcements 5 of the bicycle in a piece with it that do not correspond to the standards of the bottle cage in terms of distance between centers, dimensions and / or threads, simply by adapting their holes 32, 34 and / or grooves 28,

28a. Similarly, the bracket 200, 200a, 200b described above may incorporate a means of attachment to the integrated device that does not correspond to standard bottle cage inserts.

The integrated device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d may contain only one element between the battery power supply unit 14 and the circuit board 16. Circuit board 16, if incorporated, may contain devices and circuits different from those described in the previous lines.

When there is no coupling with the fixing means 170-173 of the bottle cage, the holes 32, 34 can be smooth holes, intended, for example, for coupling with expansion devices, or with different seats for the elements of fixation to fix the device 10, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d integrated to the bicycle or to the support 200, 200a, 200b.

Of course, the person skilled in the art, in order to satisfy specific and contingent requirements, can make various modifications and variants with respect to the device described in the previous lines, all of which, in any case, are included within the scope of protection of the present invention as defined in the subsequent claims.