U.S. patent application number 14/620499 was filed with the patent office on 2015-10-15 for versatile electric bicycle systems.
The applicant listed for this patent is CIVILIZED CYCLES INCORPORATED. Invention is credited to Zachary Schieffelin.
Application Number | 20150291253 14/620499 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50341945 |
Filed Date | 2015-10-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150291253 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schieffelin; Zachary |
October 15, 2015 |
VERSATILE ELECTRIC BICYCLE SYSTEMS
Abstract
The disclosure herein provides systems for a versatile electric
bicycle that is configured to be easily adapted to accommodate
various needs and requirements. In certain embodiments, the
foregoing may provide features and/or models that are configured to
be easily adapted to accommodate parts of varying dimensions,
different seating configurations, and/or particular laws and
regulations of different jurisdictions.
Inventors: |
Schieffelin; Zachary;
(Brooklyn, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CIVILIZED CYCLES INCORPORATED |
Brooklyn |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50341945 |
Appl. No.: |
14/620499 |
Filed: |
February 12, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14255500 |
Apr 17, 2014 |
8983704 |
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14620499 |
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14178205 |
Feb 11, 2014 |
8738212 |
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14255500 |
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PCT/US2013/060706 |
Sep 19, 2013 |
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14178205 |
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61704375 |
Sep 21, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
701/22 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 9/00 20130101; B62J
45/20 20200201; H04W 4/027 20130101; H04W 4/70 20180201; Y02T
10/7258 20130101; B60L 2200/12 20130101; Y02T 10/72 20130101; B62J
9/00 20130101; B62M 6/40 20130101; B62M 6/45 20130101; G01S 19/01
20130101; B60L 15/20 20130101; B60W 40/12 20130101; B62M 6/90
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B62M 6/45 20060101
B62M006/45; H04W 4/00 20060101 H04W004/00; H04W 4/02 20060101
H04W004/02; B60L 15/20 20060101 B60L015/20; G01S 19/01 20060101
G01S019/01 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium having a
computer program stored thereon for causing a suitably programmed
mobile computing device to process by one or more processors
computer-program code by performing a method for controlling a
maximum power output of a motor of a vehicle when the computer
program is executed on the suitably programmed mobile computing
device, the vehicle comprising an electric bicycle, moped, motor
assisted cycle, or motorcycle, the method comprising: determining,
by a geolocation system of the mobile computing device, a
geographic location representative of a geographic position of the
vehicle; accessing, by the mobile computing device, an electronic
database comprising maximum power output regulation data;
determining, by the mobile computing device, based on the
geographic location and the maximum power output regulation data, a
power output limit related to the geographic location; and
transmitting, from the mobile computing device to a control system
of the vehicle, data that enables the control system to limit a
maximum power output of the motor of the vehicle to the determined
power output limit.
22. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
21, the method further comprising: receiving, by the mobile
computing device from a computer server system, an update to the
maximum power output regulation data; and modifying, by the mobile
computing device, the electronic database in response to the
received update.
23. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
21, the method further comprising: receiving, by the mobile
computing device, a selection of an off-road-only mode of
operation; and transmitting, from the mobile computing device to
the control system of the vehicle, data that instructs the control
system to enable the maximum power output of the motor to exceed
the power output limit.
24. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
21, the method further comprising: receiving, by the mobile
computing device, a selection of a non-powered mode of operation;
and transmitting, from the mobile computing device to the control
system of the vehicle, data that instructs the control system to
disable the motor.
25. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
21, the method further comprising: determining, by the mobile
computing device, based on the geographic location, a vehicle speed
limit for the geographic location; and transmitting, from the
mobile computing device to the control system of the vehicle, data
that enables the control system to limit a maximum speed of the
vehicle to the determined vehicle speed limit.
26. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
21, wherein the geolocation system of the mobile computing device
uses at least one of a global positioning system or cellular tower
triangulation to determine the geographic location.
27. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
21, wherein the transmitting, from the mobile computing device to
the control system of the vehicle, comprises a wireless
transmission.
28. A computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium having a
computer program stored thereon for causing a suitably programmed
vehicle computer system to process by one or more processors
computer-program code by performing a method for controlling a
maximum power output of a motor of a vehicle when the computer
program is executed on the suitably programmed vehicle computer
system, the vehicle comprising an electric bicycle, moped, motor
assisted cycle, or motorcycle, the method comprising: receiving, by
the vehicle computer system from a mobile computing device
comprising a geolocation system, data representative of a
geographic location of the vehicle; accessing, by the vehicle
computer system, an electronic database comprising maximum power
output regulation data; determining, by the vehicle computer
system, based on the geographic location and the maximum power
output regulation data, a power output limit related to the
geographic location; and causing, by the vehicle computer system,
the maximum power output of the motor of the vehicle to be limited
to the determined power output limit.
29. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
28, the method further comprising: receiving, by the vehicle
computer system, an update to the maximum power output regulation
data; and modifying, by the vehicle computer system, the electronic
database in response to the received update.
30. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
28, the method further comprising: receiving, by the vehicle
computer system, a selection of an off-road-only mode of operation;
and enabling, by the vehicle computer system, in response to the
selection of the off-road-only mode of operation, the maximum power
output of the motor of the vehicle to exceed the determined power
output limit.
31. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
30, wherein the selection of the off-road-only mode of operation is
received by the vehicle computer system from the mobile computing
device.
32. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
30, wherein the selection of the off-road-only mode of operation is
received by the vehicle computer system via a user input of the
vehicle computer system.
33. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
28, further comprising: receiving, by the vehicle computer system,
a selection of a non-powered mode of operation; and disabling, by
the vehicle computer system, in response to the selection of the
non-powered mode of operation, the motor of the vehicle.
34. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
33, wherein the selection of the non-powered mode of operation is
received by the vehicle computer system from the mobile computing
device.
35. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
28, wherein the receiving, by the vehicle computer system from the
mobile computing device, comprises a wireless transmission from the
mobile computing device.
36. A computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium having a
computer program stored thereon for causing a suitably programmed
vehicle computer system to process by one or more processors
computer-program code by performing a method for controlling a
maximum power output of a motor of a vehicle when the computer
program is executed on the suitably programmed vehicle computer
system, the vehicle comprising an electric bicycle, moped, motor
assisted cycle, or motorcycle, the method comprising: receiving, by
the vehicle computer system from a mobile computing device
comprising a geolocation system, power output limit data indicative
of a jurisdictional power output limit related to a geographic
location of the vehicle, wherein the jurisdictional power output
limit is determined by the mobile computing device querying an
electronic database using geographic position data from the
geolocation system; and causing, by the vehicle computer system,
the maximum power output of the motor of the vehicle to be limited
to the jurisdictional power output limit for the geographic
location of the vehicle.
37. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
36, further comprising: receiving, by the vehicle computer system,
a selection of an off-road-only mode of operation; and enabling, by
the vehicle computer system, in response to the selection of the
off-road-only mode of operation, the maximum power output of the
motor of the vehicle to exceed the determined power output
limit.
38. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
37, wherein the selection of the off-road-only mode of operation is
received by the vehicle computer system from the mobile computing
device.
39. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
37, wherein the selection of the off-road-only mode of operation is
received by the vehicle computer system via a user input of the
vehicle computer system.
40. The computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium of claim
36, wherein the receiving, by the vehicle computer system from the
mobile computing device, comprises a wireless transmission from the
mobile computing device.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of PCT Application No.
PCT/US2013/060706, filed Sep. 19, 2013, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/704,375, filed Sep. 21, 2012.
Each of the foregoing applications is hereby incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] Embodiments relate to the field of bicycles, and, in
particular, to improved designs for versatile electric
bicycles.
[0004] 2. Description
[0005] With the development of new technologies, various types and
kinds of electric bicycles are available today that can operate on
electric and/or manual power. Many different types of electric
bicycles are available and comprise various types of parts, such as
motors and batteries, customized for different laws and regulations
of each jurisdiction. Most electric bicycles are quite particular
and lack compatibility or flexibility. For example, a certain
electric bicycle can be restricted to be used in conjunction with
certain parts, certain configurations, and/or within certain
jurisdictions only. In other words, the electric bicycle industry
lacks any standard or base model that can easily be adapted to
accommodate different regulations, different parts, and/or
different configurations. Further, the same electric bicycle may be
considered by law a bicycle, a moped, a motor assisted cycle, or a
motorcycle depending on jurisdiction and specification. The most
common jurisdictional variations are total power permitted, top
speed permitted, and whether the motor is controlled by a hand
throttle or by pedal input.
SUMMARY
[0006] Advancements in technology make it possible to develop
systems of a versatile electric bicycle that are adaptable to
accommodate different parts, including motors and batteries, seat
configurations, and laws of different jurisdictions.
[0007] In one embodiment, a system for controlling an electric
bicycle having a motor comprises a user access point unit
configured to receive a user input for controlling the electric
bicycle, and an electric bicycle computing unit configured to
control performance characteristics of the electric bicycle. The
electric bicycle computing unit may control the electric bicycle
based on the received user input, such that the performance
characteristics of the electric bicycle comply with regulations of
a first jurisdiction encompassing a current location of the
electric bicycle. In one embodiment, the electric bicycle computing
unit may communicate with a main computing system which maintains a
regulations database to retrieve the regulations of the first
jurisdiction encompassing the current location of the electric
bicycle and automatically configure the electric bicycle to comply
with the retrieved regulations. In another embodiment, the user
access point unit may communicate with a main computing system
which maintains a regulations database to retrieve the regulations
of the first jurisdiction encompassing the current location of the
electric bicycle and transmit the retrieved regulations to the
electric bicycle computing unit, and electric bicycle computing
unit may automatically configure the electric bicycle to comply
with the regulations transmitted by the user access point unit.
[0008] In some embodiments, the current location of the electric
bicycle may be automatically determined, without any user input,
based on location information provided by a GPS module configured
to determine location information. Alternatively, in other
embodiments, the current location of the electric bicycle may be
determined based on the user input specifying a location.
[0009] In some embodiments, the user access point unit may allow
the user to specify one or more control parameters for controlling
the electric bicycle. The one or more control parameters may be one
or more of (i) pedal assist or power on demand modes of power
application, (ii) a power output of the motor, (iii) a top speed of
the electric bicycle, (iv) a maximum torque of the motor, and (v) a
brake ON or OFF status.
[0010] In some embodiments, the electric bicycle computing unit may
detect a change in the current location of the electric bicycle
causing the current location to be encompassed by a second
jurisdiction different from the first jurisdiction, and
automatically configure the electric bicycle to comply with
regulations of the second jurisdiction
[0011] In some embodiments, the electric bicycle may further
comprise power control module for controlling the power output of
the motor of the electric bicycle, a GPS module for detecting a
current location of the electric bicycle, a speed detection module
for detecting a current speed of the electric bicycle, a navigation
module for providing directions to the user, and/or a battery level
detection module for monitoring a current battery level by
communicating with one or more battery sensors.
[0012] In some embodiments, the user input may include user
selection of a riding mode specifying how the electric bicycle is
to be used. Based on the user selection, the electric bicycle
computing unit may control the electric bicycle according to the
selected riding mode. For example, (1) in a case that the riding
mode is a bicycle mode, the electric bicycle computing unit turns
off the motor of the electric bicycle such that the electric
bicycle is driven solely by pedaling, (2) in a case that the riding
mode is a moped mode, the electric bicycle computing unit caps the
performance of the motor of the electric bicycle based on the
regulations of the first jurisdiction, and (3) in a case that the
riding mode is an off-road-only mode, the electric bicycle
computing unit allows the motor of the electric bicycle to perform
in an uninhibited manner.
[0013] In some embodiments, the electric bicycle computing unit may
be configured to unlock the electric bicycle when a valid
connection is established between the electric bicycle computing
unit, and lock the electric bicycle when the valid connection is
terminated.
[0014] In some embodiments, an electric bicycle may comprise a
frame and a side bag having a semi-rigid outer shell. The side bag
may be connected to the frame with an elastic material that holds
the shell tight to the frame when the side bag is not full and
holds the shell tight to the cargo inside the side bag when the
side bag is full.
[0015] In some embodiments, the side bag is waterproof, cut
resistant, permanently fixed to the frame, and/or has one or more
additional pockets for holding batteries, controllers, bicycle
locks and/or helmets. In some embodiments, a bag or compartment for
holding one or more batteries may comprise a connector mechanism
for connecting at least one battery of said one or more batteries
to the electric bicycle such that the motor is powered by said at
least one battery.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The foregoing and other features, aspects and advantages are
described in detail below with reference to the drawings of various
embodiments, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the
disclosure. The drawings comprise the following figures in
which:
[0017] FIGS. 1A-1G depict an example of one embodiment of an
electric bicycle with a wave seat configuration that allows for
multiple seat positions.
[0018] FIGS. 2A-2G depict an example of one embodiment of an
electric bicycle with one or more bags covering the rear wheel.
[0019] FIG. 3A is a block diagram depicting a high level overview
of one embodiment of a system for controlling the maximum output of
a motor of an electric bicycle.
[0020] FIG. 3B is a block diagram depicting one embodiment of a
computer hardware system configured to run software for
implementing one or more embodiments of the motor output control
system described herein.
[0021] FIGS. 3C-3I depict an example of one embodiment of an
electric bicycle with a user access point system integrated to the
electric bicycle.
[0022] FIG. 3J is a block diagram depicting an overview of one
embodiment of a method of controlling the maximum output of a motor
of an electric bicycle.
[0023] FIGS. 4A-4G depict drivetrain layout features of an example
of one embodiment of an electric bicycle.
[0024] FIG. 5 depicts an example of one embodiment of an electric
bicycle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the
accompanying figures. The terminology used in the description
presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited
or restrictive manner, simply because it is being utilized in
conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific
embodiments. Furthermore, embodiments may comprise several novel
features, no single one of which is solely responsible for its
desirable attributes or which is essential to practicing the
embodiments herein described.
[0026] The disclosure herein provides improved systems for a
versatile electric bicycle that is flexible and easily adaptable to
accommodate various needs and requirements. In general, most
electric bicycles available today are restricted and/or designed to
be used with particular parts, such as motors and/or batteries.
Further, most electric bicycles are confined to a particular
seating configuration and/or are not easily transferable across
different jurisdictions due to varying regulations and laws that
control the electric bicycle industry. However, the embodiments of
a versatile electric bicycle disclosed herein provide standard
features and/or models that are configured to be easily adapted to
accommodate parts of varying dimensions, different seating
configurations, and/or particular laws and regulations of different
jurisdictions. Further, due to its flexibility, embodiments of an
electric bicycle disclosed herein are durable and timeless as the
motor, battery, and/or other parts of the electric bicycle can be
easily upgraded and replaced.
[0027] The term "electric bicycle" used in the present disclosure
may refer to any of electric bicycles, electric assist bicycles,
mopeds and other "limited use vehicles" as defined by law (for
example, a two- or three-wheeled cycle that can go faster than 30
mph and reach a top speed of 40 mph). However, the term is not
limited to such examples, and may include other similar devices
currently existing or to be developed in the future.
Frame Design
[0028] In an embodiment, an electric bicycle comprises an
ergonomically designed frame. In some embodiments, the electric
bicycle comprises a step-through frame.
Wave Seat Configuration
[0029] In general, electric bicycles can either be powered manually
by pedaling or electrically by an electric motor. When an electric
bicycle is powered by the electric motor, the rider may prefer to
sit lower and further back for a more comfortable position while
cruising. Also, it may be preferable for the rider to be able to
lay his or her feet flat on the ground when the electric bicycle is
stopped. Alternatively, a rider may choose to manually pedal the
electric bicycle in some situations, such as when the batteries are
out of power or when the motor is not providing enough power and/or
speed. When pedaling, a rider may prefer to sit or stand
substantially above the pedals for a more dynamic riding
configuration. As such, due to differences in physical action of
the two options, different riding and/or seating positions can be
preferred depending on how the electric bicycle is being
powered.
[0030] In an embodiment, an electric bicycle can have one or more
seating positions that can be selected by the rider to accommodate
different seating preferences. FIGS. 1A-1G illustrate an example of
an embodiment of an electric bicycle with multiple seating
positions or a wave seat configuration. In the depicted embodiment,
an electric bicycle comprises multiple seating positions including
at least Position A 102, Position B 104, and Position C 106.
[0031] Position A 102 is relatively low and is positioned away from
the front of the bicycle. The pedals 108 are generally located
further forward than the seat position. Position A 102 can be
selected when the electric motor is powering the electric bicycle,
although it may be selected for manual pedaling as well. When the
electric bicycle is in Position A 102, a rider can sit back in a
cruising position as the electric motor powers the bicycle. Also,
in some embodiments, Position A 102 is sufficiently low as to allow
a rider to rest the rider's feet flat on the ground when the
bicycle is not moving.
[0032] Position C 106 is higher in height and is closer to the
front of the bicycle compared to Position A 102. When a rider is
actively pedaling the electric bicycle, the user may select
Position C 106 of the seating positions. This allows for the rider
to sit or stand substantially above the pedals 108 to allow for
more power and a more dynamic riding position.
[0033] Position B 104 is between Position A 102 and Position C 106,
both in height and in distance from the front of the bicycle.
Position B 104 can be selected depending on the personal preference
of the rider and/or riding condition, such as the steepness of
terrain.
[0034] In other embodiments, any number of seating positions that
differ in height and in distance from the front of the bicycle may
be selected. A plurality of seating positions may accommodate
riders of different heights and/or with different uses or
preferences. In some embodiments, the different possible positions
may be along a straight line. In other embodiments, the different
possible positions may be along an arc. That is, the seat may trace
a straight line shape or an arc shape when switched between the
various positions. In other embodiments, the seat may trace any
shaped line when switched between positions. Further, for whatever
path the seat traces, any number of possible positions may be used
in between the two extreme positions A 102 and C 106.
[0035] In some embodiments, the seat may be rotated about an axis
perpendicular to the bicycle frame plane. This plane contains the
frame of the bicycle, thus such an axis would be approximately
parallel to a wheel axis. This is the equivalent of a "pitch" type
of rotation. Thus, such rotation of the seat allows the rider to
either pitch up or pitch down. For example, when in back position A
102 a rider may elect to pitch up so that, relative to a level
seat, the front portion of the seat moves up and the back portion
of the seat moves down. Conversely, when in forward position 106, a
rider may elect to pitch down, so that the front portion of the
seat moves down and the back portion of the seat moves up relative
to a level seat. Depending on the shape of the seat, the front
portion of the seat may be higher or lower than the back portion of
the seat when pitched in either direction.
[0036] In some embodiments, the traced shape of the seat may be
translated or moved. For example, for a given starting position at
position A 102 and given a shape to trace, the positions B 104 and
C 106 are thus defined in space. However, all three positions, or
however many positions an embodiment has, may be moved together.
For example, a different starting position at position A 102 may be
used. Suppose position A 102 is moved up and back by a certain
distance. This will in turn translate or move the shape that the
seat traces up and back by the same distance, thus moving position
B 104 and C 106 up and back by the same distance. In this manner,
different sized riders may adjust the seat so that the various
positions result in optimal configurations. For instance, a short
rider may want positions that will be closer to the ground, while a
tall rider may want positions higher up. These riders can adjust
the seat accordingly so that all possible positions are relatively
lower or higher, respectively, than they otherwise would be. The
translation or movement of the traced shape may also be further
forward or backward, or any combination of forward/backward and
up/down.
[0037] In certain embodiments, the seat is configured to be
switched between one or more seating configurations via an ottoman
bracket and/or an L-shaped bracket. In some embodiments, the
ottoman bracket and/or L-shaped bracket can comprise one or more
holes that allow for one or more seat configurations. In certain
embodiments, the seat is configured to be manually adjusted and
locked into a particular position. In other embodiments, the seat
is configured to be automatically moved and locked into a
preferable position via a button or other input that a rider can
select.
[0038] In some embodiments, the vertical distance of the seat from
the bottom of the wheels can be adjusted from about 25 inches to
about 45 inches or any other range. For example, depending on the
seat configuration, the vertical distance of the seat from the
bottom of the wheels can be about 25 inches, 26 inches, 27 inches,
28 inches, 29 inches, 30 inches, 31 inches, 32 inches, 33 inches,
34 inches, 35 inches, 36 inches, 37 inches, 38 inches, 39 inches,
40 inches, 41 inches, 42 inches, 43 inches, 44 inches, 45 inches,
or any other height.
[0039] In certain embodiments, the horizontal distance from the
front of the seat to the handles of the electric bicycle can be
adjusted from about 10 inches to about 25 inches or any other
range. For example, depending on the seat configuration, the
horizontal distance from the front of the seat to the handles of
the electric bicycle can be about 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches,
13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches,
19 inches, 20 inches, 21 inches, 22 inches, 23 inches, 24 inches,
25 inches, or any other distance.
Bag(s) Configuration
[0040] In an embodiment, an electric bicycle comprises one or more
bags configured to hold cargo or any other item(s). FIGS. 2A-2G
illustrate an example of an embodiment of an electric bicycle
comprising one or more bags.
[0041] In an embodiment, one or more bags 200 are located in the
rear of the electric bicycle. In some embodiments, the one or more
bags 200 are permanently or semi-permanently integrated to the
electric bicycle. In other embodiments, the one or more bags 200 or
parts thereof are selectively removable from the electric
bicycle.
[0042] In some embodiments, the one or more bags 200 cover the rear
wheel or portions thereof, providing a protective cover for the
rear wheel. By covering the rear wheel or portions thereof, the one
or more bags 200 can reduce exposure of the rider and/or rear wheel
to dirt or other debris. The one or more bags 200 can also function
as a protective layer for the rear wheel against shock or
damage.
[0043] In some embodiments, the one or more bags 200 comprise a
hard shell and/or soft compartment or pouch. The hard shell or
structure can be made of any type of hard material, such as a hard
plastic for example. The hard shell can provide a rigid structure
to the one or more bags 200 such that the one or more bags 200 can
maintain a certain form and/or shape. Also, the hard shell can
prevent the one or more bags 200 from poking into the rear wheel
frame.
[0044] In some embodiments, the one or more bags 200 comprise a
semi-rigid outer shell connected to a main body of the bag with an
elastic material. The elastic material can be configured to hold
the outer shell tight or close to the body when the bag is not
full, and to hold the shell tight to cargo placed within the bag
when the bag is full or partially full. In some embodiments, the
bags 200 are configured to be waterproof and/or cut resistant. In
some embodiments, the bags 200 are permanently fixed to the bicycle
frame or removably attached to the bicycle frame. In some
embodiments, as further described below, the bags 200 may comprise
one or more internal or external pockets for holding various items,
such as, for example, batteries, a controller, and/or dirty locks.
In some embodiments, one or more pockets are specially configured
to hold a particular item, such as a battery, controller, dirty
locks, and/or the like. For example, a special pocket for holding a
dirty lock may comprise waterproof or other materials and/or a seal
to reduce a risk of transferring dirt, contaminants, and/or
moisture from the lock to other items within the bag.
[0045] The soft compartment or pouch can be made of any soft
material, such as any type of fabric, soft plastic, canvas,
leather, or any other appropriate material or trim. The soft
compartment or pouch can be flexible in some embodiments to be able
to carry a wide variety of items in size and dimension. In certain
embodiments, when empty, the soft compartment or pouch collapses to
lay flat against the hard shell and closer to the rear wheel. This
can allow for a more aerodynamic configuration of the electric
bicycle. In contrast, in certain embodiments, when one or more
items are placed in the soft compartment or pouch, the soft
compartment or pouch can expand while being supported by the hard
shell.
[0046] In certain embodiments, an electric bicycle comprises a
platform 204. The platform 204 can be configured to be used for
resting a rider's feet and/or for providing support for the soft
compartment or pouch.
Dedicated Pockets
[0047] In some embodiments, the one or more bags 200 comprise one
or more compartments or pouches that are dedicated for particular
items. For example, in certain embodiments, the one or more bags
200 can comprise one or more dedicated battery pouches or
compartments 202 for battery mounting and suspension on one or both
sides of the electric bicycle. In other embodiments, the one or
more bags 200 can comprise one or more dedicated compartments or
pouches for a bicycle lock and/or helmet. For example, the one or
more bags 200 may be used to hold or store dirty locks.
[0048] In certain embodiments, the one or more bags 200 comprise a
plurality of dedicated battery compartments 202 in various
locations. In some embodiments, the compartments 202 are on one or
both sides of the bags 200. In other embodiments, the compartments
may be, instead or in addition to being on the sides, on the back
end of the bags 200 that is farthest from the handles on the bike.
Still in other embodiments, the compartments 202 may be on a front
side of the bags 200 that is farthest toward the handles of the
bike. Or the compartments 202 may be in any combination of front,
side, and/or back locations on the bags 200. The compartments 202
may further by located in any of these positions on both or either
the exterior of the bags 200 and/or the interior of the bags 200.
In some embodiments, the bags 200 may also include covers to
protect the bags 200 from the elements and/or hide the bags 200
from view for security purposes.
[0049] In certain embodiments, the one or more bags 200 comprise a
plurality of dedicated battery compartments 202 of various shapes
and sizes to accommodate batteries of various shapes and sizes. In
some embodiments, the battery compartments 202 are substantially
rectangular in shape and are configured to hold a plurality of
batteries shaped approximately like a brick and of various sizes.
For instance, the compartments 202 may be configured to hold
batteries approximately shaped like a brick and/or rectangle with
width, depth, and length dimensions, respectively, of about 3.375
inches by about 2.625 inches by about 10.250 inches. Other possible
width dimensions include about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5
inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 3.5
inches, about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about 5.5
inches, or about 6 inches, or any other width. Other possible depth
dimensions include about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5
inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 3.5
inches, or about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about
5.5 inches, or about 6 inches, or any other depth. Other possible
length dimensions include about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5
inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 3.5
inches, about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about 5.5
inches, about 6 inches, about 6.5 inches, about 7 inches, about 7.5
inches, about 8 inches, about 8.5 inches, about 9 inches, about 9.5
inches, about 10 inches, about 10.5 inches, about 11 inches, about
11.5 inches, about 12 inches, about 12.5 inches, about 13 inches,
about 13.5 inches, about 14 inches, about 14.5 inches, about 15
inches, about 15.5 inches, about 16 inches, about 16.5 inches,
about 17 inches, about 17.5 inches, or about 18 inches, or any
other depth.
[0050] The compartments 202 may be sized to accommodate a single
size and shape of battery or the compartments 202 may be sized to
accommodate many ranges of battery sizes and shapes. In other
embodiments, the battery compartments 202 are substantially square,
circular, and/or oval in shape, and/or any other shape, whether
typical or atypical.
[0051] Square-shaped compartments may have length and width
dimensions of about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5 inches,
about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 3.5 inches,
about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about 5.5 inches,
about 6 inches, about 6.5 inches, about 7 inches, about 7.5 inches,
about 8 inches, about 8.5 inches, about 9 inches, about 9.5 inches,
about 10 inches, about 10.5 inches, about 11 inches, about 11.5
inches, about 12 inches, about 12.5 inches, about 13 inches, about
13.5 inches, about 14 inches, about 14.5 inches, about 15 inches,
about 15.5 inches, about 16 inches, about 16.5 inches, about 17
inches, about 17.5 inches, or about 18 inches, or any other length
and width. Square-shaped compartments 202 may have height
dimensions of about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch, about 1.5 inches,
about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches, about 3.5 inches,
about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches, about 5.5 inches,
about 6 inches, or any other height.
[0052] Circular-shaped or oval-shaped compartments 202 may have a
minimum diameter and/or a height of about 0.5 inches, about 1 inch,
about 1.5 inches, about 2 inches, about 2.5 inches, about 3 inches,
about 3.5 inches, about 4 inches, about 4.5 inches, about 5 inches,
about 5.5 inches, about 6 inches, about 6.5 inches, about 7 inches,
about 7.5 inches, about 8 inches, about 8.5 inches, about 9 inches,
about 9.5 inches, about 10 inches, about 10.5 inches, about 11
inches, about 11.5 inches, about 12 inches, about 12.5 inches,
about 13 inches, about 13.5 inches, about 14 inches, about 14.5
inches, about 15 inches, about 15.5 inches, about 16 inches, about
16.5 inches, about 17 inches, about 17.5 inches, or about 18
inches, or any other diameter and/or height.
[0053] In certain embodiments, the dedicated battery compartments
202 are diagonal or substantially vertical in configuration with an
opening at the top to allow for easy installation and removal while
providing sufficient stability such that the battery does not fall
out.
[0054] In some embodiments, an electric bicycle comprises a
plurality of battery compartments 202 on one or multiple sides of
the electric bicycle. For example, in some embodiments, one, two,
or three battery compartments 202 may be located on each side of
the electric bicycle. In other embodiments, more battery
compartments 202 may be located on one side compared to another
side. In certain embodiments, one or more battery compartments 202
may be located on only one side of the electric bicycle.
[0055] In some embodiments, a dedicated battery compartment(s) 202
further comprises a connector mechanism to connect the battery to
the electric bicycle such that battery can power the electric
motor. For example, a dedicated battery compartment(s) 202 can
comprise a cradle, dock, cable(s), and/or pin(s) for connecting the
battery to the electric bicycle. A battery compartment(s) 202 can
also comprise any other battery connecting mechanism that is
currently well-known or is to be developed in the future. In some
embodiments, the battery connecting mechanism that connects the one
or more batteries to the motor is protectively covered by the one
or more bags 200.
[0056] In certain embodiments, unlike some other electric bicycles
that are restricted to a proprietary battery, a number of different
types of batteries can be installed. Dedicated battery compartments
202 of some embodiments are flexible in shape and/or size and can
accommodate batteries with varying shapes and/or sizes. In
addition, in certain embodiments, a dedicated battery compartment
202 can allow for simple installation and/or removal of batteries
for recharging, replacing, and/or upgrading among other
purposes.
[0057] The bags 200 and/or compartments 202 in some embodiments are
aerodynamically shaped to minimize and/or lower drag on the bike
when moving and thus increase efficiency of the electrical system.
In other embodiments, the bags 200 and/or compartments 202 are
bulkier and sacrifice aerodynamic efficiency for more storage
space.
Vehicle Control System
[0058] Currently, different states and/or countries have different
laws governing the use of electric bicycles. For example, the
definition and/or restrictions of electric bicycles and their power
can be different in each state and/or country. Laws regarding the
maximum speed of electric bicycles can also be different. For
example, the U.S. federal law defines and restricts electric
bicycles to bicycles with electric motors of less than 750 Watts
and with a top motor-powered speed of less than 20 miles per hour
with a rider that weighs less than 170 pounds. In comparison,
California restricts the maximum power output of electric bicycles
to 1000 Watts, and Florida allows electric bicycles with a maximum
power output of up to 5000 Watts.
[0059] Needless to say, the different laws and regulations of each
jurisdiction create a challenge for electric bicycle manufacturers
in creating a single product that complies with all such rules. One
option for manufacturers is to develop a low-powered electric
bicycle that complies with the regulations of all jurisdictions and
can be sold everywhere. However, such electric bicycles are
unnecessarily restricted in both power and/or speed and
consequently may not appeal to consumers thereby hindering sales.
Another option is to develop customized electric bicycle products
for each jurisdiction to maximize the power and/or speed allowed by
the laws of each jurisdiction. However, this option inherently
leads to high costs in design and manufacturing of multiple
models.
[0060] As an alternative to developing a sufficiently low-powered
electric bicycle to comply with all state regulations or developing
customized electric bicycles per jurisdiction, an embodiment of an
electric bicycle as disclosed herein uses software and a computer
system(s) to control the maximum power output and/or speed within
the regulations of each jurisdiction. In other words, in some
embodiments, an electric bicycle with hardware specifications above
the regulations of one or more jurisdictions is adaptable to such
regulations via software and a computer system(s). Such electric
bicycles can maximize the power and/or speed limits allowable by
the laws of each jurisdiction. In this way, a manufacturer of an
electric bicycle only needs to design, build, and market one
electric bicycle product for a plurality of jurisdictions as long
as the software and computer system(s) can limit the maximum power
and/or speed output of the electric motor within each
jurisdiction's regulations.
[0061] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating a high level
overview of one embodiment of a system for controlling the output
of an electric bicycle's motor within a jurisdiction's regulations.
In an embodiment, a main computing system 304, an electric bicycle
computing system 310, and/or a user access point system 324 can be
in communication over a network 308 to control the output of an
electric bicycle's motor. For example, in some embodiments, a main
computing system 304, an electric bicycle computing system 310,
and/or a user access point system 324 are configured to control the
performance characteristics of an electric bicycle such that the
performance characteristics comply with a particular jurisdiction
or government's regulations and requirements. In certain
embodiments, appropriate software configured to be used in
conjunction with the system to control and/or monitor an electric
bicycle's performance can be purchased and/or downloaded for
installation. For example, in some embodiments, software for a user
access point system 324 can be downloaded and installed from a
mobile app store.
[0062] In some embodiments, the system comprises a user access
point system 324 configured to receive input from a rider and/or
other user to specify one or more control parameters for
controlling the electric bicycle. Such control parameters may
include "pedal assist" or "power on demand" modes of power
application (for example, pedal-assist mode in which the motor
assists the rider based on the pressure of his or her pedaling, and
power-on-demand mode in which the rider has control of the amount
of power output by the motor), total power output (for example, in
watts), top speed, maximum torque and/or brake on or off status.
Additionally or alternatively, the system (for example, electric
bicycle computing system 310) may be configured to determine one or
more of such control parameters based on information provided by
the user (for example, via the user access point system 324) and/or
information retrieved from one or more internal or external
databases (for example, regulations databases 306 or 322). For
example, in certain embodiments, the rider and/or other user can
input a maximum speed and/or power value for the motor. In other
embodiments, the rider and/or other user can input and/or select
the state or other jurisdiction where the electric bicycle is
located, and the system can be configured to automatically
configure the one or more control parameters such that the electric
bicycle complies with the regulations of the particular state or
jurisdiction. In some embodiments, the system can be configured to
automatically detect the appropriate state or other jurisdiction,
without requiring a user to manually input and/or select a state or
other jurisdiction. For example, as further described below, the
system can be configured to utilize a GPS module to detect the
bike's location.
[0063] In some embodiments, the user access point system 324
determines the maximum speed and/or power output allowable under
the appropriate regulations of the selected jurisdiction based on a
regulations database 322 of the user access point system 324. In
other embodiments, the user access point system 324 communicates
with a main computing system 304 comprising a regulations database
306 to determine the maximum speed and/or power output allowable
under the appropriate regulations of the selected jurisdiction.
Regulations related to electric bicycles, maximum allowable power
and/or speed of electric bicycles, and/or other related information
can be stored in the regulations database 306, 322. The user access
point system 324 and/or main computing system 304 can be configured
to periodically update the one or more regulations databases 306,
322 by communicating with one or more other computing systems
and/or databases.
[0064] In certain embodiments, a GPS module is configured to detect
the current location of the electric bicycle and electronically
transmit the location to the user access point system 324, electric
bicycle computing system 310, and/or main computing system 304.
Based on the detected location, the user access point system 324,
electric bicycle computing system 310, and/or main computing system
304 can automatically access the regulations database and determine
the maximum speed and/or power output allowed under the appropriate
regulations of the jurisdiction where the electric bicycle is
currently located. In some embodiments, the GPS module is
configured to periodically check the location of the electric
bicycle and electronically transmit the location to the user access
point system 324, electric bicycle computing system 310, and/or
main computing system 304. Based on the periodically updated
location of the electric bicycle, the user access point system 324,
electric bicycle computing system 310, and/or main computing system
304 can update the maximum speed and/or power output allowed under
the regulations of a new jurisdiction when necessary due to the
electric bicycle's movement. In some embodiments, the GPS module is
part of a user's smartphone or other portable computing device. In
some embodiments, in addition to, or in lieu of a GPS module, other
locating or geolocation methods may be utilized, such as, for
example, cellular phone tower triangulation, detection of Wi-Fi
access points or other radio devices or broadcasts, and/or the
like.
[0065] In some embodiments, an electric bicycle comprises an
electric bicycle computing system 310. In certain embodiments, an
electric bicycle computing system 310 is configured to limit the
maximum power and/or speed of the electric bicycle according to the
determined maximum allowable power and/or speed from one or more
regulations databases 306, 322. In certain embodiments, the
electric bicycle computing system 310 comprises a power control
module 312 configured to control and/or limit the maximum power
output of the electric bicycle's motor. The electric bicycle
computing system 310 can also comprise a speed control module 314
configured to control and/or limit the maximum speed output of the
motor.
[0066] In some embodiments, some or all data and user settings are
logged, time/date stamped, and preserved for a period of time (for
example, to preserve manufacturer liability in the event of a crash
or misuse). For example, every time a location-based performance
profile is created (for example, either from user specification of
the location information or specific control parameters, or from
automatic determination of location information and automatic
configuration of relevant control parameters), any data generated
and settings specified by the user are logged in a log database. In
some embodiments, other data is also logged, such as speed,
acceleration, distance traveled, throttle position, brake control
position, distance from nearby vehicles, and/or the like. The
system may be configured to periodically back up to another server
or system for storage or analysis the data stored in the log
database.
[0067] In certain embodiments, the user access point system 324 can
be configured to enable the user (for example, rider) of the
electric bicycle to select a riding mode from a plurality of riding
modes such as a "bicycle" mode, a "moped" mode or an "off road
only" mode. In one embodiment, the bicycle mode may, for example,
turn off or disconnect the motor of the electric bicycle and enable
driving the electric bicycle solely from pedaling, the moped mode
may, for example, limit the capacity of the electric bicycle (for
example, top speed, motor output, etc.) such that the electric
bicycle falls under the definition of a moped (for example, the
power control module 312 may be configured to limit the power
output and/or speed of the electric bicycle to be within the limits
defined by law), and the off-road-only mode may, for example, allow
uninhibited top speed and/or motor output.
[0068] In certain embodiments, the electric bicycle computing
system 310 and/or user access point system 324 comprises a speed
detection module 316 configured to detect the current speed of the
electric bicycle. The detected speed of the electric bicycle can be
displayed to the rider via the user access point system 324 and/or
other display means.
[0069] In certain embodiments, the electric bicycle computing
system 310 and/or user access point system 324 comprises a
navigation module 318 configured to communicate with a GPS module,
detect the current location of the electric bicycle, and/or give
directions to the rider. Directions can be displayed to the rider
via the user access point system 324 and/or other display
means.
[0070] In certain embodiments, the electric bicycle computing
system 310 and/or user access point system 324 comprises a battery
level detection module 320 configured to detect and/or monitor the
current battery level by communicating with one or more battery
sensors. In some embodiments, the electric bicycle computing system
310 is further configured to estimate a remaining distance or range
the electric bicycle can travel based on the detected battery
level. In some embodiments, the current battery level and/or
estimated range is displayed to the rider via the user access point
system 324 and/or other display means.
[0071] In certain embodiments, the electric bicycle computing
system 310 and/or user access point system 324 are configured to
control the suspension settings of the electric bicycle. In some
embodiments, the user access point system 324 can display a
suspension setting input field to a rider. The rider can insert a
suspension setting of the rider's choice using the user access
point system 324. In certain embodiments, the user access point
system 324 is configured to receive a suspension setting selection
from a rider and transmit the selection to the electric bicycle
computing system 310. The electric bicycle computing system 310 can
receive the selection input and control the electric bicycle
accordingly.
[0072] For example, in some embodiments, an electric bicycle can be
configured to have one or more suspension settings, such as soft,
medium, or hard. If a rider selects the soft suspension setting,
the electric bicycle computing system 310 can loosen the suspension
settings of the electric bicycle by adjusting a shock absorbing
mechanism of the electric bicycle. If a rider selects the hard
suspension setting, the electric bicycle computing system 310 can
tighten the suspension settings of the electric bicycle by
adjusting a spring and/or shock absorbing mechanism of the electric
bicycle.
[0073] The network may comprise one or more internet connections,
secure peer-to-peer connections, secure socket layer (SSL)
connections over the internet, virtual private network (VPN)
connections over the internet, or other secure connections over the
internet, private network connections, dedicated network
connections (for example, IDSN, T1, or the like), wireless or
cellular connections, or the like or any combination of the
foregoing.
Computing System
[0074] In some embodiments, the computer clients and/or servers
described above take the form of a computing system 326 illustrated
in FIG. 3B, which is a block diagram of one embodiment of a
computing system that is in communication with one or more
computing systems 310 and/or one or more data sources 342 via one
or more networks 308. The computing system 326 may be used to
implement one or more of the systems and methods described herein.
In addition, in one embodiment, the computing system 326 may be
configured to control the output speed and/or power of an electric
bicycle's motor. While FIG. 3B illustrates one embodiment of a
computing system 326, it is recognized that the functionality
provided for in the components and modules of computing system 326
may be combined into fewer components and modules or further
separated into additional components and modules.
Motor Control Module
[0075] In one embodiment, the system 326 comprises a motor control
module 338 that carries out the functions described herein with
reference to controlling the output power and/or speed of an
electric bicycle's motor. The motor control module 338 may be
executed on the computing system 326 by a central processing unit
334 discussed further below.
[0076] In general, the word "module," as used herein, refers to
logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of
software instructions, possibly having entry and exit points,
written in a programming language, such as, for example, COBOL,
CICS, Java, Lua, C or C++. A software module may be compiled and
linked into an executable program, installed in a dynamic link
library, or may be written in an interpreted programming language
such as, for example, BASIC, Perl, or Python. It will be
appreciated that software modules may be callable from other
modules or from themselves, and/or may be invoked in response to
detected events or interrupts. Software instructions may be
embedded in firmware, such as an EPROM. It will be further
appreciated that hardware modules may be comprised of connected
logic units, such as gates and flip-flops, and/or may be comprised
of programmable units, such as programmable gate arrays or
processors. The modules described herein are preferably implemented
as software modules, but may be represented in hardware or
firmware. Generally, the modules described herein refer to logical
modules that may be combined with other modules or divided into
sub-modules despite their physical organization or storage.
Computing System Components
[0077] In one embodiment, the computing system 326 also comprises a
mainframe computer suitable for controlling and/or communicating
with large databases, performing high volume transaction
processing, and generating reports from large databases. The
computing system 326 also comprises a central processing unit
("CPU") 334, which may comprise a conventional microprocessor. The
computing system 326 further comprises a memory 336, such as random
access memory ("RAM") for temporary storage of information and/or a
read only memory ("ROM") for permanent storage of information, and
a mass storage device 328, such as a hard drive, diskette, or
optical media storage device. Typically, the modules of the
computing system 326 are connected to the computer using a
standards based bus system. In different embodiments, the standards
based bus system could be Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI),
Microchannel, SCSI, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA) and
Extended ISA (EISA) architectures, for example.
[0078] The computing system 326 comprises one or more commonly
available input/output (I/O) devices and interfaces 332, such as a
keyboard, mouse, touchpad, and printer. In one embodiment, the I/O
devices and interfaces 332 comprise one or more display devices,
such as a monitor, that allows the visual presentation of data to a
user. More particularly, a display device provides for the
presentation of GUIs, application software data, and multimedia
presentations, for example. In the embodiment of FIG. 3B, the I/O
devices and interfaces 332 also provide a communications interface
to various external devices. The computing system 326 may also
comprise one or more multimedia devices 330, such as speakers,
video cards, graphics accelerators, and microphones, for
example.
Computing System Device/Operating System
[0079] The computing system 326 may run on a variety of computing
devices, such as, for example, a server, a Windows server, a
Structure Query Language server, a Unix server, a personal
computer, a mainframe computer, a laptop computer, a cell phone, a
personal digital assistant, a kiosk, an audio player, and so forth.
The computing system 200 is generally controlled and coordinated by
operating system software, such as z/OS, Windows 95, Windows 98,
Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7,
Linux, BSD, SunOS, Solaris, or other compatible operating systems.
In Macintosh systems, the operating system may be any available
operating system, such as MAC OS X. In other embodiments, the
computing system 200 may be controlled by a proprietary operating
system. Conventional operating systems control and schedule
computer processes for execution, perform memory management,
provide file system, networking, and I/O services, and provide a
user interface, such as a graphical user interface ("GUI"), among
other things.
Network
[0080] In the embodiment of FIG. 3B, the computing system 326 is
coupled to a network 308, such as a LAN, WAN, or the Internet, for
example, via a wired, wireless, or combination of wired and
wireless, communication link 340. The network 308 communicates with
various computing devices and/or other electronic devices via wired
or wireless communication links. In the embodiment of FIG. 3B, the
network 308 is communicating with one or more computing systems 310
and/or one or more data sources 342.
[0081] Access to the motor control module 338 of the computer
system 326 by computing systems 310 and/or by data sources 342 may
be through a web-enabled user access point such as the computing
systems' 310 or data source's 342 personal computer, cellular
phone, laptop, or other device capable of connecting to the network
308. Such a device may have a browser module is implemented as a
module that uses text, graphics, audio, video, and other media to
present data and to allow interaction with data via the network
308.
[0082] The browser module may be implemented as a combination of an
all points addressable display such as a cathode-ray tube (CRT), a
liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, or other types
and/or combinations of displays. In addition, the browser module
may be implemented to communicate with input devices 332 and may
also comprise software with the appropriate interfaces which allow
a user to access data through the use of stylized screen elements
such as, for example, menus, windows, dialog boxes, toolbars, and
controls (for example, radio buttons, check boxes, sliding scales,
and so forth). Furthermore, the browser module may communicate with
a set of input and output devices to receive signals from the
user.
[0083] The input device(s) may comprise a keyboard, roller ball,
pen and stylus, mouse, trackball, voice recognition system, or
pre-designated switches or buttons. The output device(s) may
comprise a speaker, a display screen, a printer, or a voice
synthesizer. In addition a touch screen may act as a hybrid
input/output device. In another embodiment, a user may interact
with the system more directly such as through a system terminal
connected to the computing system without communications over the
Internet, a WAN, or LAN, or similar network.
[0084] In some embodiments, the system 326 may comprise a physical
or logical connection established between a remote microprocessor
and a mainframe host computer for the express purpose of uploading,
downloading, or viewing interactive data and databases on-line in
real time. The remote microprocessor may be operated by an entity
operating the computer system 326, including the client server
systems or the main server system, and/or may be operated by one or
more of the data sources 342 and/or one or more of the computing
systems. In some embodiments, terminal emulation software may be
used on the microprocessor for participating in the micro-mainframe
link.
[0085] In some embodiments, computing systems 310 who are internal
to an entity operating the computer system 326 may access the motor
control module 338 internally as an application or process run by
the CPU 334.
Other Systems
[0086] In addition to the systems that are illustrated in FIGS.
3A-3B, the network 308 may communicate with other data sources or
other computing devices. The computing system 326 may also comprise
one or more internal and/or external data sources. In some
embodiments, one or more of the data repositories and the data
sources may be implemented using a relational database, such as
DB2, Sybase, Oracle, CodeBase and Microsoft.RTM. SQL Server as well
as other types of databases such as, for example, a flat file
database, an entity-relationship database, and object-oriented
database, and/or a record-based database.
User Access Point
[0087] In an embodiment, a user access point or user access point
system 324 comprises a personal computer, a laptop computer, a
cellular phone, an iPhone.RTM., a GPS system, a Blackberry.RTM.
device, a portable computing device, a server, a computer
workstation, a local area network of individual computers, an
interactive kiosk, a personal digital assistant, an interactive
wireless communications device, a handheld computer, an embedded
computing device, or the like.
[0088] FIGS. 3C-3I illustrate an example of an embodiment of an
electric bicycle that is configured to be coupled with a user
access point or user access point system 324 for controlling the
electric bicycle. In some embodiments, the user access point system
324 can be permanently and/or semi-permanently installed. In other
embodiments, the user access point system 324 is a mobile device
that can be selectively installed and/or removed. In some
embodiments, the user access point system 324 comprises more than
one separate computing device, such as, for example, a cellular
phone or smartphone configured to be carried by a user and to
electronically communicate, wired and/or wirelessly, with a
separate computing device configured to be permanently or removably
attached to the electric bicycle. In some embodiments, a user
access point system 324 is configured to communicate with the
electric bicycle computing system 310 wirelessly. For example, the
user access point system 324 may comprise a smartphone configured
to be carried by a user and to wirelessly communicate with the
electric bicycle computing system 310.
[0089] In some embodiments, a user access point system 324 is
configured to be attached and installed to the electric bicycle via
a connector mechanism 302. In some embodiments, the connector
mechanism 302 comprises a cradle or a case that is configured to
hold the user access point system and a data port configured to
connect the user access point system 324 to the electric bicycle
computing system 310. The cradle or case 302 can be permanently or
semi-permanently attached to the frame of the electric bicycle.
[0090] In some embodiments, the user access point system 324 can
comprise software that allows the rider to select or set a maximum
output of the electric motor's power and/or speed. For example,
using the software and/or user interface, the rider can set the
maximum output of the electric bicycle's power to about or exactly
250 watts (currently the most common requirement in Europe), about
or exactly 500 watts, about or exactly 600 watts, about or exactly
700 watts, about or exactly 750 watts, about or exactly 800 watts,
about or exactly 900 watts, about or exactly 1000 watts, about or
exactly 1100 watts, about or exactly 1200 watts, about or exactly
1300 watts, about or exactly 1400 watts, about or exactly 1500
watts, about or exactly 2000 watts, about or exactly 3000 watts,
about or exactly 4000 watts, about or exactly 5000 watts or any
other value.
[0091] In certain embodiments, the software and/or user interface
of the user access point system 324 is configured such that a user
only needs to select a state or jurisdiction where the user is
currently located. The user access point system 324 in certain
embodiments comprises a pre-stored database that comprises data of
each jurisdiction's electric bicycle regulations and/or laws. For
example, a user access point system 324 can have pre-stored the
maximum power and/or speed of electric bicycles allowed by law of
one or more jurisdictions. In other embodiments, data related to
the maximum power and/or speed of electric bicycles allowed by law
of one or more jurisdictions is stored in the electric bicycle
computing system 310 and/or main computing system 304.
[0092] In some embodiments, when a rider selects a particular
jurisdiction, the user access point system 324, electric bicycle
computing system 310, and/or main computing system 304 is
configured to determine the maximum power and/or speed limit of the
selected jurisdiction using a pre-stored database and restrict the
electric bicycle accordingly. For example, if a rider inputted via
the user access point system 324 that the rider is currently in
California, the user access point system 324, electric bicycle
computing system 310, and/or main computing system 304 can be
configured to automatically determine or identify that the maximum
power output for electric bicycles in California is 1000 watts and
limit the power output of the electric motor to 1000 watts.
[0093] In certain embodiments, the user access point system 324
and/or electric bicycle computing system 310 comprises a GPS module
which is configured to automatically and/or periodically determine
the location of the electric bicycle, identify the maximum power
and/or speed allowed by the appropriate jurisdiction's regulations,
and limit the power and/or speed of the electric bicycle to that
value(s). For example, if the user access point system 324 and/or
electric bicycle computing system 310 determines that the electric
bicycle is currently in California, the user access point system
324 and/or electric bicycle computing system 310 can automatically
identify that the maximum power output in California is limited to
1000 watts and restrict the power output to 1000 watts. When the
user access point system 300 and/or electric bicycle computing
system 310 determines that the electric bicycle is in New York at a
later point in time, the user access point system 324 and/or
electric bicycle computing system can then automatically determine
that the electric bicycle is currently in New York and restrict the
maximum power and/or speed of the electric bicycle to the maximum
value(s) allowed in New York.
[0094] In certain embodiments, the user access point system 324 can
be configured to provide additional features as well. For example,
the user access point system 324 can be configured to function as a
speedometer and display the current speed of the electric bicycle
to the user. In some embodiments, the user access point system 324
can also provide a GPS navigation system and/or map to the user via
a GPS module. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the user access
point system 324 can be configured to provide driving education
software to the user for efficient driving.
[0095] In addition, in some embodiments the user access point
system 324 is configured to function as a key for locking and/or
unlocking the electric bicycle. For example, when a rider attaches
and/or installs the user access point system 324 into the electric
bicycle, the electric bicycle computing system 310 can be
configured to validate the identity of the user access point system
324 and unlock the electric bicycle if validated. Similarly, when a
rider removes the user access point system 324 from the electric
bicycle in certain embodiments, the electric bicycle computing
system 310 can be configured to automatically detect that the user
access point system 324 is removed and lock the electric
bicycle.
Methods of Controlling Maximum Output
[0096] FIG. 3J illustrates an overview of one embodiment of a
method of controlling the maximum output of a motor of an electric
bicycle. In some embodiments, a user and/or rider inputs or selects
via a user access point system a jurisdiction where the electric
bicycle is located at block 344. In certain embodiments, the user
access point system is configured to display only certain
jurisdictions, such as certain states and/or countries. In other
embodiments, the system is configured to automatically detect the
jurisdiction.
[0097] In certain embodiments, the electric bicycle computing
system communicates with a main computing system and/or other
database(s) for any regulation updates at block 346. In some
embodiments, the main computing system communicates with one or
more regulations databases 350 to obtain the most recent
regulations. In certain embodiments, the user access point system
only communicates with the main computing system for updates only
when necessary or periodically at predetermined intervals. In other
embodiments, the user access point system does not communicate with
the main computing system for updates.
[0098] In some embodiments, the user access point system determines
the maximum speed and/or power output allowed for an electric
bicycle under the updated, if any, regulations of the selected
jurisdiction at block 352. An electric bicycle computing system in
certain embodiments can limit the maximum speed and/or power of the
electric bicycle according to the determined legal limits at block
354.
[0099] In certain embodiments, the user access point system
displays the set maximum power and/or speed to the rider at block
356 for confirmation. If the rider confirms, then the maximum speed
and/or power output of the electric bicycle is set to the maximum
level allowable under that jurisdiction's regulations. In some
embodiments, the user access point system is configured to display
to the rider or user an option to even lower the maximum power
and/or speed of the electric bicycle below the jurisdiction's legal
limits at block 358. For example, a parent may decide to further
limit the maximum power and/or speed of a child's electric
bicycle.
[0100] In some embodiments, if a rider or user selects a lower
maximum speed and/or power limit of the electric bicycle at block
358, the electric bicycle computing can then limit such to the
selected level at block 360. In certain embodiments, the user
access point system confirms the lower maximum speed and/or power
value selected at block 362.
Motor Placement
[0101] Generally, most electric bicycles comprise a hub-motor that
is located within the rear wheel frame of the electric bicycle.
However, such designs have many disadvantages. For example, because
hub-motors cannot be configured to be used with gears, a specially
designed low RPM motor must be used for placement inside the rear
wheel frame. Also, the weight of the hub-motor naturally affects
the weight of the rear wheel and affects the dynamics of the
electric bicycle. In addition, due to the restrictions in size and
placement, only motors of a particular size and/or configuration
may be installed in such electric bicycles. Further, it can be
difficult to remove and/or install a hub-motor due to its placement
inside the rear wheel frame. In some cases, the whole rear wheel
has to be replaced in order to replace a hub-motor.
[0102] In contrast, in an embodiment of an electric bicycle, the
electric motor is placed outside the rear wheel frame. In some
embodiments, the electric motor is placed substantially beneath the
seat frame. FIGS. 4A-4G illustrate an example of an embodiment of
an electric bicycle where the electric motor 412 is located beneath
the seat and is attached directly to the bicycle frame itself. In
some embodiments, the motor 412 is located substantially above a
jackshaft 404.
[0103] By locating the motor 412 outside of the rear wheel frame,
such embodiments of an electric bicycle are more flexible and
adaptable as they can be used with a wider range of motors. For
example, because the motor 412 is not located within the rear wheel
frame, the motor 412 can be configured to be used in conjunction
with hinge gears, which allows use of a number of conventional
motors that are not necessarily specially designed for low RPM.
Also, there are less weight restrictions as the weight of the wheel
itself is not affected by the motor 412. In addition, motors 412
with a wider range of sizes and/or configurations can be installed.
Further, it is easier to remove and/or install a motor 412.
Drivetrain Design
[0104] In some embodiments, the drivetrain of an electric bicycle
is chain-free and comprises belt drives 402, 410, 414. In some
embodiments, one or more belt drives 402, 410, 414 of the electric
bicycle or portions thereof are covered. For example, in some
embodiments where one or more bags 200 are located in the rear of
the bicycle, one or more belt drives 402, 410, 414, jackshaft 414,
motor 412, and/or portions thereof may be protectively covered by
portions of one or more bags 200.
[0105] In certain embodiments, an electric bicycle is configured
such that there is complete independence between the electric motor
412 and pedals 108. For example, in some embodiments, there is no
or substantially no resistance to the pedals 108 from the motor 412
when the motor is powering the electric bicycle. In certain
embodiments, when the electric bicycle is powered by the motor 412,
the motor 412 moves a first belt drive 410, which further turns a
jackshaft 404. As the jackshaft 404 is turned, a second belt drive
414 is moved thereby turning the real wheel 408.
[0106] In some embodiments, when the pedals 108 are moved to power
the electric bicycle, the pedals 108 move a third belt drive 402
which further turns a jackshaft 404. In some embodiments, an
electric bicycle comprises an idler 406 contacting the third belt
drive 402. In some embodiments, the same jackshaft 404 is turned by
both manual pedaling 108 and the electric motor 412. As the
jackshaft 404 is turned, the second belt drive 414 is moved thereby
turning the rear wheel 408.
[0107] In some embodiments, the first, second, and third belt
drives 410, 414, 402 substantially form a T-shape with the
jackshaft 404 located at the intersection. In certain embodiments,
the angle between the first and second belt drives 410, 414, the
first and third belt drives 410, 402, and/or the second and third
belt drives 414, 402 is about 5.degree., about 10.degree., about
15.degree., about 20.degree., about 25.degree., about 30.degree.,
about 35.degree., about 40.degree., about 45.degree., about
50.degree., about 55.degree., about 60.degree., about 65.degree.,
about 70.degree., about 75.degree., about 80.degree., about
85.degree., about 90.degree., about 95.degree., about 100.degree.,
about 105.degree., about 110.degree., about 115.degree., about
120.degree., about 125.degree., about 130.degree., about
135.degree., about 140.degree., about 145.degree., about
150.degree., about 155.degree., about 160.degree., about
165.degree., about 170.degree., about 175.degree., about
180.degree., or any other angle.
[0108] In some embodiments, the third belt drive 402 is located on
one side of the electric bicycle and the first and second belt
drives 410, 414 are located on the other side of the electric
bicycle. In other embodiments, the second belt drive 414 is located
on one side of the electric bicycle and the first and third belt
drives 410, 402 are located on the other side of the electric
bicycle. In certain embodiments, the first belt drive 410 is
located on one side of the electric bicycle and the second and
third belt drives 414, 402 are located on the other side of the
electric bicycle. In other embodiments, the first, second, and
third belt drives 410, 414, 402 are all located on the same side of
the electric bicycle.
[0109] In some embodiments, the various belt drives are on pulleys
attached to the various axles. For instance, a first belt drive 410
may be on a pulley connected to the electric motor 412 and on a
pulley connected to the jackshaft 404. An axle is connected to this
pulley on the jackshaft 404 which connects to other pulleys on the
axle. Among these other pulleys, one pulley may be connected to the
second belt drive 414 and another pulley connected to the third
belt drive 402. The jackshaft 404 and axle may have more or less
pulleys in various arrangements and locations, depending on the
arrangements and locations of the various belt drives.
Shock Linkage
[0110] In an embodiment, the rear wheel suspension of the electric
bicycle uses shock linkage instead of direct shock. By using a
shock linkage instead of a direct shock it is possible to withstand
a wide range of loads by making slight adjustments.
[0111] Conditional language, such as, among others, "can," "could,"
"might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or
otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally
intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other
embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or
steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to
imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required
for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments
necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input
or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are
included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The
headings used herein are for the convenience of the reader only and
are not meant to limit the scope of the inventions or claims.
[0112] Although the embodiments of the inventions have been
disclosed in the context of a certain preferred embodiments and
examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that
the present inventions extend beyond the specifically disclosed
embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the
inventions and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In
addition, while a number of variations of the inventions have been
shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are
within the scope of the inventions, will be readily apparent to
those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also
contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the
specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and
still fall within one or more of the inventions. Accordingly, it
should be understood that various features and aspects of the
disclosed embodiments can be combine with or substituted for one
another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventions.
Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present inventions
herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed
embodiments described above.
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