U.S. patent application number 17/217916 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-29 for modular lock assembly for an electric bicycle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Rad Power Bikes Inc.. Invention is credited to Bryan FORD, Dave MILLER, Jake SILSBY, Redwood STEPHENS.
Application Number | 20220306227 17/217916 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005540350 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220306227 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SILSBY; Jake ; et
al. |
September 29, 2022 |
MODULAR LOCK ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRIC BICYCLE
Abstract
Various embodiments provide for a bike-supported communication
network that manages and facilitates communications between
components of an electric bicycle and a wireless network. In some
embodiments, the systems and methods provide a lock assembly for an
electric bicycle, having a lock module that is configured to lock a
rear wheel of the electric bicycle and a communication module that
facilitates wireless communications between the electric bicycle
and a communications network.
Inventors: |
SILSBY; Jake; (Seattle,
WA) ; MILLER; Dave; (Seattle, WA) ; FORD;
Bryan; (Seattle, WA) ; STEPHENS; Redwood;
(Seattle, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rad Power Bikes Inc. |
Seattle |
WA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005540350 |
Appl. No.: |
17/217916 |
Filed: |
March 30, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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17216440 |
Mar 29, 2021 |
|
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17217916 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E05B 73/0005 20130101;
G16Y 10/40 20200101; G16Y 40/50 20200101; B62H 5/14 20130101; B62J
45/20 20200201; E05B 71/00 20130101; H04W 4/48 20180201; G16Y 10/75
20200101; B62J 50/20 20200201 |
International
Class: |
B62H 5/14 20060101
B62H005/14; B62J 45/20 20060101 B62J045/20; B62J 50/20 20060101
B62J050/20; H04W 4/48 20060101 H04W004/48 |
Claims
1. A lock assembly for an electric bicycle, the lock assembly
comprising: a lock module that is configured to lock a rear wheel
of the electric bicycle; and a communication module that
facilitates wireless communications between the electric bicycle
and a communications network.
2. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the communication module
includes: a Bluetooth module that facilitates communications
between the lock assembly and a mobile device associated with the
electric bicycle; and an Internet of Things (IoT) module that
facilitates communications between the lock assembly and one or
more remote servers over the communications network.
3. The lock assembly of claim 1, further comprising: an action
module that perform actions associated with theft events that
include the electric bicycle.
4. The lock assembly of claim 1, further comprising: an action
module that modifies operations of components of the electric
bicycle in response to theft events detected at the electric
bicycle.
5. The lock assembly of claim 1, further comprising: an action
module that causes one or more alarms to be performed in response
to theft events detected at the electric bicycle.
6. The lock assembly of claim 1, further comprising: an action
module that sends one or more alerts over the communications
network in response to theft events detected at the electric
bicycle.
7. The lock assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a housing that
secures the lock assembly to a seat tube of a frame of the electric
bicycle and contains the communication device.
8. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the lock module includes a
mechanically-actuated shackle lock that prevents the rear wheel of
the electric bicycle from rotating.
9. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the lock module includes
an electronically-actuated shackle lock that prevents the rear
wheel of the electric bicycle from rotating.
10. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the lock module includes
an integrated cable lock that is configured to fix the electric
bicycle to a fixture at a geographical location that includes the
electric bicycle.
11. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the lock module includes
an electronic locking module that causes an electric motor, a
battery park, or a controller to operate in a locked mode of
operation.
12. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the electric bicycle is
part of a fleet of electric bicycles, the lock assembly further
comprising: a fleet module that communicates information associated
with the electric bicycle to a fleet management server over the
communications network
13. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the communication device
includes a transmitter configured to perform cellular
communications over the communications network.
14. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the communication device
is configured to represent the electric bicycle as an Internet of
Things (IoT) device on the communications network.
15. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the communication device
is adapted to communicate over the communications network via an
antenna integrated into one or more frame components of the
electric bicycle.
16. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the communication device
includes: a Bluetooth component that facilitates Bluetooth protocol
communications between the communication device and a controller, a
battery pack, or an electric motor of the electric bicycle; and a
wireless component that facilitates WiFi protocol communications
between the communication device and the communications
network.
17. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the communication device
includes: a Bluetooth component that facilitates Bluetooth protocol
communications between the communication device and a controller, a
battery pack, or an electric motor of the electric bicycle; and a
cellular component that facilitates cellular protocol
communications between the communication device and the
communications network.
18. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the lock component
includes an electronic locking module that causes the electric
motor, the battery park, or the controller to operate in a locked
mode of operation.
19. A modular lock for an electric bicycle, the modular lock
comprising: a lock module that is configured to secure the electric
bicycle; a Bluetooth module that facilitates communications between
the modular lock and a mobile device associated with the electric
bicycle; and an Internet of Things (IoT) module that facilitates
communications between the modular lock and one or more remote
servers over a wireless network.
20. The modular lock of claim 19, further comprising: an action
module that modifies operations of components of the electric
bicycle in response to theft events detected at the electric
bicycle.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 17/216,440, filed Mar. 29, 2021, entitled
SECURITY SYSTEMS AND COMMUNICATION NETWORKS FOR ELECTRIC BICYCLES,
and is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/875,874,
filed on May 15, 2020, entitled BICYCLE SECURITY DEVICES AND
SYSTEM, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference
in their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are a popular method of
transportation for use by individual riders, families, commercial
enterprises, and so on. Generally, electric bicycles are more
expensive than traditional bicycles, and thus enhanced security
devices and anti-theft systems that assist with or prevent
unauthorized and/or unwanted use of an electric bicycle, such as
its theft, are desirable.
[0003] While conventional security devices, such as locks (e.g.,
cables, chains, D-locks U-locks, wheel locks) or alert systems, can
provide varying levels of deterrence or prevention, thieves can
still find ways to remove the locks or avoid the alert systems. For
example, thieves have a myriad amount of lock removal tools at
their disposal, such as lock picks, cable cutters, hacksaws, bolt
cutters, drills, grinders, and so on.
[0004] Further, conventional alert systems can be expensive and/or
suffer from various issues. For example, conventional systems can
present false alerts upon detecting bike movements due to
accidental or innocuous activities (e.g., and not due to a theft or
other illegal activities). Further, such systems may detect the
theft of a bicycle when it is too late (e.g., once the thief has
already removed the lock and is riding away with the bike), and
thus not be useful for deterrence of the theft or recovery of the
bike.
[0005] These and other drawbacks exist with respect to conventional
locks and alert systems.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] Embodiments of the present technology will be described and
explained through the use of the accompanying drawings.
[0007] FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating a network of components
for an electric bicycle.
[0008] FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating a lock as a hub within an
electric bicycle network.
[0009] FIG. 2A is a block diagram illustrating various modules of a
modular lock assembly.
[0010] FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating a device mount in
communication with an electric bicycle network.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a suitable network
environment within which an electric bicycle operates.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating example components of
a bike communication system.
[0013] FIGS. 5A-5D are diagrams illustrating example bike
components as antennas of a bike communication system.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating example components of
a security action system.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating various components of
a multi-factor alert system.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method of
presenting a security action for an electric bicycle.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method of
determining a security action for an electric bicycle using
information from various bicycle sensors.
[0018] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method of
determining a security action for an electric bicycle based on a
context associated with the electric bicycle.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a lock module configured
to be adapted with a conventional lock.
[0020] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method of
unlocking a conventional lock using an associated lock module.
[0021] In the drawings, some components are not drawn to scale, and
some components and/or operations can be separated into different
blocks or combined into a single block for discussion of some of
the implementations of the present technology. Moreover, while the
technology is amenable to various modifications and alternative
forms, specific implementations have been shown by way of example
in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention,
however, is not to limit the technology to the particular
implementations described. On the contrary, the technology is
intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives
falling within the scope of the technology as defined by the
appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview
[0022] Various systems and methods associated with securing
electric bicycles and alerting users of theft or tampering
activities associated with their electric bicycles are described.
For example, the systems and methods described herein are
configured or implemented to act as anti-theft or anti-tampering
devices for an electric bicycle.
[0023] Various embodiments provide for a bike-supported
communication network that manages and facilitates communications
between components of an electric bicycle and a wireless network.
In some embodiments, the systems and methods provide a
bike-supported communication device that communicates with a
wireless network via one or more wireless communication protocols,
where the communication device is configured to manage
communications between the wireless network and various components
of the electric bicycle. The communication device can include a
bicycle communications component that facilitates communications
between the communication device and components of the electric
bicycle, and a network communications component that facilitates
communications between the electric bicycle and the wireless
network.
[0024] While described herein with respect to electric bicycles, in
some embodiments aspects of the security devices and systems
described herein can be configured or utilized with other bicycles
or cycles, such as non-electric bicycles, tricycles, scooters or
other wheeled micro-mobility vehicles, mopeds, and so on.
[0025] Various embodiments of the devices and systems will now be
described. The following description provides specific details for
a thorough understanding and an enabling description of these
embodiments. One skilled in the art will understand, however, that
these embodiments may be practiced without many of these details.
Additionally, some well-known structures or functions may not be
shown or described in detail, so as to avoid unnecessarily
obscuring the relevant description of the various embodiments. The
terminology used in the description presented below is intended to
be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is
being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain
specific embodiments.
Examples of Electric Bicycle Networks and Suitable Communication
Environments
[0026] FIG. 1A depicts an electric bicycle 100 that incorporates
many of the various features of the technology described herein. As
depicted, the electric bicycle, or e-bike, is a long-tail cargo
bike configured to be propelled either by human pedaling of the
e-bike and/or via an electric motor that assists the human's
pedal-power or propels the e-bike without pedaling (similar to a
moped or scooter). Of course, the electric bicycle 100 can be of
various other types or styles, including different classes of bikes
(e.g., class 1, 2, or 3 e-bike), electric bikes having different
frames (e.g., road bikes, commuter bikes, folding bikes), and so
on.
Electric Bicycle Communication Networks
[0027] The electric bicycle 100 includes components common to
bicycles, such as a front wheel and rear wheel that support a frame
of the bicycle, a crankset (that supports pedals, not shown), a
chain that extends from the crankset to a rear axle of the rear
wheel, a seat, handlebars, cargo rack, and so on. The frame can
include a head tube, a down tube, a top tube and a seat tube, as
well as seat stays or other cross tubes. The front wheel can be
attached to the frame via a fork connected to the head tube, and
the rear wheel can be attached to the frame via a dropout assembly
of the frame.
[0028] The electric bicycle 100 also includes a battery pack 110
positioned and/or mounted to a down tube of the frame, a controller
120 mounted to seat-stays of the frame, and an electric motor 130
(e.g., a hub motor) mounted to the rear wheel. In some cases, the
battery pack 110 and/or controller 120 can be integrated or
semi-integrated into the frame of the electric bicycle 100. During
operation of the electric bicycle 100, the battery pack 110
provides power to the electric motor 130, which propels the bicycle
under control of the controller 120. In some configurations, the
battery pack 110 and/or controller 120 are mounted to other
components of the frame.
[0029] Further, the electric bicycle 100 includes an integrated
security device 140, as described herein. The integrated security
device 140 can include a cable or tether lock component integrated
with a wheel lock (having a sliding or rotating shackle), which
enables a rider to secure his/her bicycle via one or two integrated
mechanisms of deterrence or protection housed within the bike
lock.
[0030] In order to communicate with a network 170, the electric
bicycle 100 includes a communication device 150, such as a wireless
communication device that is configured to communicate over a
wireless network, such as a cellular network. The communication
device 150 can include components configured to communicate over
the network 170, such as WiFi components, cellular components
(e.g., 4G or 5G cellular components), Bluetooth components, and so
on. For example, the communication device 150 can include various
embedded sensors, processors (microprocessors), and connectivity
ports or antennas. In some cases, the communication device 150
functions as an Internet of Things (IoT) device and can enable the
electric bicycle 100 to be part of a network of connected e-bikes,
such as a fleet of electric bicycles in communication with a
central server or portal.
[0031] As described herein, the communication device 150 provides
one or more communication methods, protocols, systems and/or
devices, such as cellular communication technologies,
Bluetooth.RTM. communication technologies, Near-Field Communication
(NFC) technologies, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
communication technologies, GSM/GPRS, and so on. These technologies
can communicate via various communication protocols, such as HTTP,
MQTT (Message Queueing Telemetry Transport), AMQP (Advanced Message
Queueing Protocol), and so on.
[0032] Thus, the communication device 150 can include various
combinations of communication technologies, in order to establish
or support an electric bicycle network. Example combinations
include:
[0033] a Bluetooth component that facilitates Bluetooth protocol
communications between the communication device and a controller,
battery pack, and/or electric motor, and a wireless component that
facilitates WiFi protocol communications between the communication
device and the wireless network;
[0034] a Bluetooth component that facilitates Bluetooth protocol
communications between a communication device and the controller,
battery pack, and/or electric motor, and a cellular component that
facilitates cellular protocol communications between the
communication device and the wireless network;
[0035] a bicycle communications component that facilitates
communications between the communication device and a controller, a
battery pack, and/or an electric motor of the electric bicycle, and
a network communications component that facilitates communications
between the electric bicycle and the wireless network; and so
on.
[0036] As described herein, the communication device 150, in some
cases, acts a communications hub for the electric bicycle, and can
perform various operations or methods as the communications hub.
For example, the communication device 150 can perform a method of
facilitating communications between components of an electric
bicycle by receiving, via a bicycle communications component of the
communications device, information associated with a current
operation of a component of the electric bicycle from a controller
of the electric bicycle, and transmitting, via a network
communications component of the communication device, a message to
a fleet management server that is remote from the electric bicycle
over a wireless network, where the message includes the information
associated with the current operation of the component of the
electric bicycle.
[0037] The communication device 150 can then receive, at the
network communications component of the communication device, a
reply message from the fleet management server over the wireless
network, and send, via the bicycle communications component, a
control signal to the component of the electric bicycle to control
the current operation of the component of the electric bicycle in
response to the reply message received from the fleet management
server.
[0038] In some cases, the communication device 150 is disposed
within an internal area of the frame of the electric bicycle, such
as within an internal area of a top tube of the electric bicycle,
an internal area of a down tube of the electric bicycle, or other
internal areas within the bicycle frame.
[0039] The electric bicycle 100 can also include a display device
160, which is configured to receive input from a rider of the
bicycle 100 and/or present information to the rider of the bicycle.
For example, the display device 160 can present information
associated with a current ride or trip (e.g., speed, pedal assist
level, battery level, route, and so on), information associated
with communications by the communication device 150 over the
network 170, and so on. The display device 160 can also facilitate
receiving input from the rider, such as input to adjust the pedal
assist level or to communicate information over the network
170).
[0040] In some cases, the electric bicycle 100 can include a smart
or connected mount or mounting device 165 that communicates with
other components of the bicycle 100. The mount 165 can pair with a
mounted or attached device, such as a smart phone or mobile device.
For example, when a paired device is attached, the mount can send
information to the controller 120 or communication device 150 that
includes information identified the paired device and/or the
associated user.
[0041] Thus, in some embodiments, the electric bicycle 100 provides
a bike supported network of various communication components, such
as components configured to trigger alerts and/or alarms associated
with unauthorized movement or use of the bicycle 100, as well as
components configured to perform other communication functions, as
described herein. In some cases, the bike supported network
includes the control device or controller 120 that controls
functions of the electric battery 110 and/or the hub motor 130.
[0042] The controller 120 can also communicate with the display
device 160, which can present information to riders, as well as
receive input from riders of the bicycle 100. In some cases, the
controller 120 can determine rider input power, and send such
information to the network 170 and/or various components. The
controller 120 can also communicate with the security device 140,
which can include various components configured to interact with
the controller 120. Further, any or all components can communicate
with the communication device 150 or with other components via the
communication device 150.
[0043] In addition to the components depicted in FIG. 1A, the
electric bicycle can include other components not shown, such as
pedals, pedal assist sensors, throttles, torque sensors and other
bike or component movement sensors, brakes and braking systems,
various accessories, fenders, various types of rims, tires, or
wheels, locking or security systems, lights and reflectors, bells
or other audible alert systems, GPS, screens, and/or other user
interfaces or display devices, and so on.
[0044] FIG. 1A and the components, systems, servers, and devices
depicted herein provide a general computing environment and network
within which the technology described herein can be implemented.
Further, the systems, methods, and techniques introduced here can
be implemented as special-purpose hardware (for example,
circuitry), as programmable circuitry appropriately programmed with
software and/or firmware, or as a combination of special-purpose
and programmable circuitry. Hence, implementations can include a
machine-readable medium having stored thereon instructions which
can be used to program a computer (or other electronic devices) to
perform a process. The machine-readable medium can include, but is
not limited to, floppy diskettes, optical discs, compact disc
read-only memories (CD-ROMs), magneto-optical disks, ROMs, random
access memories (RAMs), erasable programmable read-only memories
(EPROMs), electrically erasable programmable read-only memories
(EEPROMs), magnetic or optical cards, flash memory, or other types
of media/machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic
instructions.
[0045] The network or cloud 170 can be any network, ranging from a
wired or wireless local area network (LAN), to a wired or wireless
wide area network (WAN), to the Internet or some other public or
private network, to a cellular (e.g., 4G, LTE, or 5G network), and
so on. While the connections between the various devices and the
network 170 and are shown as separate connections, these
connections can be any kind of local, wide area, wired, or wireless
network, public or private.
[0046] Further, any or all components depicted in the Figures
described herein can be supported and/or implemented via one or
more computing systems or servers. Although not required, aspects
of the various components or systems are described in the general
context of computer-executable instructions, such as routines
executed by a general-purpose computer, e.g., mobile device, a
server computer, or personal computer. The system can be practiced
with other communications, data processing, or computer system
configurations, including: Internet appliances, hand-held devices
(including tablet computers and/or personal digital assistants
(PDAs)), all manner of cellular or mobile phones, multi-processor
systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics,
set-top boxes, network PCs, mini-computers, mainframe computers,
AR/VR devices, and the like. Indeed, the terms "computer," "host,"
and "host computer," and "mobile device" and "handset" are
generally used interchangeably herein and refer to any of the above
devices and systems, as well as any data processor.
[0047] Aspects of the system can be embodied in a special purpose
computing device or data processor that is specifically programmed,
configured, or constructed to perform one or more of the
computer-executable instructions explained in detail herein.
Aspects of the system may also be practiced in distributed
computing environments where tasks or modules are performed by
remote processing devices, which are linked through a
communications network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide
Area Network (WAN), or the Internet. In a distributed computing
environment, program modules may be located in both local and
remote memory storage devices.
[0048] Aspects of the system may be stored or distributed on
computer-readable media (e.g., physical and/or tangible
non-transitory computer-readable storage media), including
magnetically or optically readable computer discs, hard-wired or
preprogrammed chips (e.g., EEPROM semiconductor chips),
nanotechnology memory, or other data storage media. Indeed,
computer implemented instructions, data structures, screen
displays, and other data under aspects of the system may be
distributed over the Internet or over other networks (including
wireless networks), on a propagated signal on a propagation medium
(e.g., an electromagnetic wave(s), a sound wave, etc.) over a
period of time, or they may be provided on any analog or digital
network (packet switched, circuit switched, or other scheme).
Portions of the system may reside on a server computer, while
corresponding portions may reside on a client computer such as a
mobile or portable device, and thus, while certain hardware
platforms are described herein, aspects of the system are equally
applicable to nodes on a network. In an alternative embodiment, the
mobile device or portable device may represent the server portion,
while the server may represent the client portion.
Lock as a Hub in an Electric Bicycle Network
[0049] In some embodiments, the security device 140 can incorporate
or include some or all aspects of the communication device 150.
FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating a lock 145, lock assembly, or
security device as a hub of an electric bicycle network. The lock
145 acts as a communication hub for the electric bicycle 100, where
some or all other components of the bicycle 100 communicate with
other components via the lock 145.
[0050] As described herein, the lock 145 includes various
components that lock, protect, or secure the electric bicycle 100.
A lock component can include a mechanically-actuated shackle lock
that prevents the rear wheel of the electric bicycle from rotating,
an electronically-actuated shackle lock that prevents the rear
wheel of the electric bicycle from rotating, an integrated cable
lock that is configured to fix the electric bicycle to a fixture at
a geographical location that includes the electric bicycle, an
electronic locking module that causes the electric motor, the
battery park, and/or the controller to operate in a locked mode of
operation, and so on.
[0051] Further, the lock 145 includes components configured to
communicate over the network 170, such as WiFi components, cellular
communication components, Bluetooth components, and so on. The lock
145, therefore, can enable the electric bicycle 100 to be an
Internet of Things (IoT) device that communicates with a central
server or portal over the network 170.
[0052] For example, a lock assembly can include a communication
device, such as the communication device 150, that communicates
with a wireless network via one or more wireless communication
protocols, where the communication device is configured to manage
communications between the wireless network and the controller of
the electric bicycle.
[0053] The lock assembly, therefore, can perform various actions,
operations, or methods acting as a communication hub for the
electric bicycle 100. For example, the lock 145 can receive
information associated with a current operation of a component of
the electric bicycle over a Bluetooth communication protocol that
manages communications between the communications device and the
component of the electric bicycle, and transmit a message to a
bicycle management server that is remote from the electric bicycle
over a wireless network, where the message includes the information
associated with the current operation of the component of the
electric bicycle.
[0054] Establishing the lock 145 as the communication hub for the
electric bicycle 100 protects the communication components from
tampering or destruction, because the lock 145 is already designed
and configured to be securely attached to the bicycle 100 (and to
secure the bicycle when not in use). Thus, the lock 145 provides a
protected housing or compartment in which to support or dispose of
various communication or computing components, in order to protect
these components from theft, tampering, damage, and/or provide
other benefits.
Examples of a Modular Lock Assembly
[0055] In some cases, the lock 145 as hub can be configured as a
modular device, where the lock 145 includes two or more modules
selected to perform or provide certain functions for the electric
bicycle 100, the rider of the electric bicycle 100, the fleet
within which the bicycle 100 is provided, and so on. FIG. 2A is a
block diagram illustrating various modules of a modular lock
assembly 200.
[0056] The modular lock assembly 200, which can be implemented by
the lock 145 and or the security device 140, includes various
modules that can be provided or removed, depending on the
capabilities, functions, or services to provide to the bicycle 100,
the rider, the associated fleet, the provider of the bicycle 100
(e.g., a bike share service) and so on.
[0057] The lock assembly 200 includes a lock module 210, such as
physical lock that prevents the rear wheel from moving (e.g., a
shackle lock), a physical lock that fixes the bicycle 100 to a
structure (e.g., a cord lock), an electronic lock that prevents
various bicycle components from operating (e.g., wheels, handlebars
or fork, motor, battery, controller) and so on. In some cases, as
described herein, the lock module 210 can attach to or be
integrated with a conventional lock already fixed to the bicycle
100 and control the operation (e.g., opening and closing) of the
conventional lock, without having to remove and provide a new
locking mechanism.
[0058] The lock assembly 200 also includes a communication module,
such as a Bluetooth module 220 and/or IoT module 230. The
communication module, which can include one or more communication
transmitters/receivers, enables the lock assembly 200 to
communicate over different communication protocols, such as
Bluetooth, wireless (WiFi), cellular, and so on.
[0059] For example, the Bluetooth module 220 can facilitate and
support communications between the lock assembly 200 and an
associated mobile device (e.g., the mobile device of a rider of the
bicycle 100) or other components of the bicycle 100. The IoT module
230 can facilitate and support communications between the lock
assembly 200 and various remote servers or portals over a
communications network, such as the network 170. Thus, the IoT
module 230 can represent the electric bicycle 100 as an Internet of
Things (IoT) device on the communications network.
[0060] The lock assembly 200 can also include an action module 240,
which is configured and/or programmed to perform various actions
associated with the electric bicycle 100, such as actions
associated with preventing or resisting theft or tampering events
at the electric bicycle 100. For example, the action module 200 can
control and/or trigger the performance of alerts or alarms in
response to certain events, and/or can modify operations of other
components of the electric bicycle 100 during certain unwanted
events or conditions. Further details regarding the components of
the action module 240 and/or actions performed by the action module
240 are described herein.
[0061] As described herein, in some embodiments, the electric
bicycle 100 can be part of a network of connected electric
bicycles, such as a fleet of electric bicycles, a ride share
service for a city or location, and so on. In order to facilitate
or protect communications between the electric bicycle 100 and
fleet management servers or systems, the lock assembly 200 can
include a fleet module 250 that is configured to communicate
information directly with the fleet management servers of
systems.
[0062] For example, the fleet module 250 can be configured by the
provider of the fleet of bicycles (e.g., a delivery company using
electric bicycles to make deliveries, a ride share service, a
university, and so on), and can capture, track, and/or store
certain information associated with the use or activities of the
electric bicycle 100. Such information can be provided to the fleet
management server or system upon request or at various established
time periods.
[0063] Further, the fleet management server or system can transfer
information or updates to the lock assembly 200 in order to update
various database or operating parameters of the electric bicycle
100. Thus, the lock assembly 200 can provide a secure and
tamper-proof location within which to store fleet specific
information and/or track use/activity information for a
fleet-provided bicycle, among other benefits.
Examples of Integrated Locking/Unlocking
[0064] In some cases, the electric bicycle 100 can include a device
mount (e.g., smart phone or mobile device mount) that integrates
the charging of a mounted device with the unlocking of the lock
140, 145, 200 (or other components) of the electric bicycle 100. In
some cases, a mount, similar to a mount for the display device 160,
can communicate over the bike supported network when paired with a
mobile device associated with the mount (or the bicycle 100).
[0065] FIG. 2B depicts a mobile device 280 and associated mount
290. When the mobile device 280, such as a device associated with
the electric bicycle 100, is mounted to the bicycle 100 via the
mount 290, the mount sends a signal via the bike supported network
or other communication protocols (e.g., Bluetooth) to the lock 200.
The signal indicates the mobile device is associated with an
authorized rider of the bicycle, and the lock 200 unlocks upon
receiving the signal. Similarly, when the device is removed, the
lock 200 may then lock to secure the bicycle 100.
[0066] The mount 290 can include various components that identify
the mobile device 280 is associated with the electric bicycle 100
or is otherwise associated with an authorized user of the electric
bicycle 100 (e.g., is the device of one or more users of bicycles
provided by a fleet or bike share service). For example, the mount
290 can communicate with the mobile device 280 over Bluetooth or
other similar protocols or can identify the device 280 via the
bike-supported network.
[0067] In some cases, the mount 290 can determine the device 280 is
in contact or proximate to the mount 290 (e.g., is mounted or
attached), and control access to the electric bicycle 100 (e.g.,
unlocking the lock, enabling the controller 120 and/or motor 130 to
operate, and so on). For example, the mobile device 280 can
communicate over RFID or NFC (near field communication) with the
mount 290, which receives identification information from the
device 280, and performs actions to unlock the lock 200 or enable
other controls of the electric bicycle 100, as described
herein.
[0068] Thus, the mount 290, or an associate system, can receive an
identifier from the mobile device over a near field communications
(NFC) protocol or an RFID protocol when the mobile device contacts
or is proximate to the mount, and determine the identifier is
associated with a user authorized to operate the electric
bicycle.
[0069] Further, the mount can send signals via the bike supported
network or other communication protocols to the other components
(e.g., the controller 120, motor 130, battery 110, display device
160, and so on) of the bicycle 100. Thus, these components may only
operate, or may operate with limited functionality, in response to
the mount sending the signal that the mobile device 280 is attached
or otherwise paired with the mount 290.
[0070] The mount 290, or a system associated with the mount 290,
can perform a method for securing an electric bicycle by
determining that a mobile device associated with the electric
bicycle is in contact with a mount disposed on the electric
bicycle, and causing a lock assembly to unlock the electric bicycle
in response to the determination that the mobile device is in
contact with the mount.
[0071] Then, in some cases, the mount 290 or associated system can
determine that a mobile device associated with the electric bicycle
is no longer in contact with the mount disposed on the electric
bicycle and cause the lock assembly to lock the electric bicycle in
response to the determination that the mobile device no longer
contacts the mount. In some cases, the mount 290 or associated
system locks (or relocks) the bicycle when it is no longer moving,
in order avoid locking the bicycle when it is in motion (and the
rider uses their device).
[0072] Thus, the device mount 290 can be part of a system that
manages operations of an electric bicycle, which includes the
device mount 290 that determines a mobile device associated with
the electric bicycle is attached, and controller that controls
operations of the electric bicycle in response to receiving a
signal from the device mount that the mobile device attached to the
device mount is associated with an authorized user of the electric
bicycle.
Electric Bicycle on a Network
[0073] As described herein, the electric bicycle 100 operates on or
within a network, such as the network 170. FIG. 3 is a block
diagram illustrating a suitable network environment 300 within
which the electric bicycle 100 operates or communicates with remote
servers/systems, other bicycles, road or bike path traffic devices,
and so on.
[0074] The bicycle 100, as described herein, can send information
to, and receive information from, other devices over the
communications network 170, such as a security server 310, a mobile
device 320 having a mobile application 325 associated with the
bicycle 100, a remote server 330, and so on. Thus, the bicycle 100,
via the various communication devices, can act as an IoT device or
other communication device on the network 170.
[0075] For example, the remote server 330 can communicate with the
electric bicycle 100 over the network 170 via the modular lock
assembly 200, the lock 145, and/or the communication device 150 of
a bike supported network. Further, the electric bicycle 100 can
communicate, via the action module 240, alert or alarm information
to the remote server 330 of a fleet management system, the remote
server 310 of a security system, and/or the mobile application 325
of the mobile device 320 (e.g., the smart phone of the rider of the
bicycle 100).
Examples of a Bike Communication System
[0076] As described herein, in some embodiments, the electric
bicycle 100 can include or support a bicycle network of components,
such as a network that facilitates communication between various
components of the electric bicycle 100 and remote servers (e.g.,
remote servers 310, 330 over the network 170).
[0077] In such embodiments, the electric bicycle 100 supports a
bike communication system for one or more components, such as the
communication device 150. The bike communication system utilizes
one or more physical or mechanical components of the electric
bicycle 100 as an antenna via which the communication device 150
can transmit and/or receive information.
[0078] For example, the bike communication system can utilize a
face plate, a seat post clamp, a crankset, or other mechanical
components of the bicycle 100 as an antenna that connects to the
communication device 150. By incorporating these components as part
of the bike communication system, a provider of the electric
bicycle 100, such as a fleet manager or ride share service, can
prevent the tampering or removal of the communication capabilities
of the bicycle 100, because the bicycle 100 cannot operate (e.g.,
cannot move or be pedaled) without these components. Thus, the bike
communication system can integrate such components in order to
resist and/or prevent tampering or removal of the bike
communication system.
[0079] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating example components of
a bike communication system 400. The bike communication system 400
includes the communication device 150, or another device configured
to transmit and/or receive information to/from the network 170.
[0080] As described herein, the communication device 150 can be
positioned or fixed to the frame of the bicycle 100, such as to a
head tube, top tube, down tube, seat tube, and so on. In some
cases, the communication device 150 can be partially or fully
disposed or contained within the frame, such as within the top tube
or down tube.
[0081] The bike communication system 400 also includes a mechanical
component 410 or frame component of the electric bicycle 100. The
mechanical component 410 includes or incorporates an antenna 420.
For example, the mechanical component 410 or frame component can
include a stamped antenna, a plate, a printed antenna (e.g., a
microstrip patch antenna), a coil, and so on. The antenna 420, in
some cases, is a metal foil or metal plate configured to be
attached or integrated (e.g., partially or wholly) into the
mechanical component 410.
[0082] The bike communication system 400 includes a connection
component 430, such as a wire or metal connector, that connects or
couples the communication device 150 to the antenna 420 via the
mechanical component 410 of the electric bicycle 100. In some
cases, the connection component 430 is a printed metal strip or
connector that runs within the frame of the bicycle 100 between the
communication device 150 and the antenna 420. In other cases, the
connection component 430 is disposed on or outside of the frame and
runs between the communication device 150 and the antenna 420.
[0083] The communication system 400, therefore, can facilitate a
method for establishing an electric bicycle as an Internet of
Things (IoT) on a network, by fixing a frame plate (or other frame
or mechanical component) to a frame of the electric bicycle, where
the frame plate includes an antenna that connects the electric
bicycle to the network and causing a network communication device
of the electric bicycle to transmit information to the network via
the antenna of the frame plate of the electric bicycle.
[0084] As described herein, the bike communication system 400 can
be implemented utilizing a variety of different mechanical
components of the electric bicycle 100. FIGS. 5A-5C are diagrams
illustrating example bike components as antennas of the bike
communication system 100.
[0085] As a first example, FIG. 5A depicts a bike communication
system 500 that utilizes a face plate 505 to communicate over a
network, such as the network 170. The communication device 150,
disposed on or within the top tube of the electric bicycle 100,
utilizes an antenna 510 that is integrated within or placed onto a
surface of the face plate 505 (e.g., the removable plate that
connects the stem to the handlebars). The communication device 150
can connect to the face plate 505 and/or antenna 510 using a wired
or printed metal connector, disposed along or within the top tube
of the bicycle 100. For example, the metal connector can run within
the top tube (e.g., internally) from the communication device 150
to the antenna 510 of the face plate 505.
[0086] As a second example, FIG. 5B depicts a bike communication
system 520 that utilizes a seat post clamp 522 to communicate over
the network 170. The communication device 150, disposed on or
within the top tube of the electric bicycle 100, utilizes an
antenna 525 that is integrated within or placed onto a surface of
the seat post clamp 522 (e.g., an attachment mechanism that fixes a
seat post and associated seat to the bicycle 100). The
communication device 150 can connect to the seat post clamp 522
and/or antenna 525 using a wired or printed metal connector,
disposed along or within the top tube and seat tube of the bicycle
100.
[0087] For example, the metal connector can run within the top tube
(e.g., internally) and seat tube from the communication device 150
to the antenna 525 of the seat post clamp 522. However, in other
cases, the communication device 150 can be disposed on or within
the seat tube, and the metal connector can run within the seat tube
(e.g., internally) from the communication device 150 to the antenna
525 of the seat post clamp 522.
[0088] As another example, FIG. 5C depicts a bike communication
system 530 that utilizes a bike seat 530 to communicate over the
network 170. The communication device 150, disposed on or within
the top tube of the electric bicycle 100, utilizes an antenna 535
that is integrated within or placed onto a surface of the bike seat
532. The communication device 150 can connect to the antenna 535 of
the bike seat 532 using a wired or printed metal connector,
disposed along or within the top tube and seat tube of the bicycle
100.
[0089] For example, the metal connector can run within the top tube
(e.g., internally) and seat tube from the communication device 150
to the antenna 535 of the bike seat 532. However, in other cases,
the communication device 150 can be disposed on or within the down
tube, and the metal connector can run within the seat tube (e.g.,
internally) from the communication device 150 to the antenna 535 of
the bike seat 532.
[0090] As another example, FIG. 5D depicts a bike communication
system 540 that utilizes a front plate 542 to communicate over the
network 170. The communication device 150, disposed on or within
the top tube of the electric bicycle 100, utilizes an antenna 545
that is integrated within or placed onto a surface of the front
plate 542. The communication device 150 can connect to the antenna
545 of the bike seat 542 using a wired or printed metal connector,
disposed along or within the top tube and a head tube of the
bicycle 100.
[0091] In addition to the front plate 542, an antenna can be
integrated onto various frame plates that attach to the frame
(e.g., on a rear rack or seat stay) of the electric bicycle 100.
The frame plates, being flush with the frame, can enable the
antenna to be easily installed or removed from the electric bicycle
100, and thus enable the activation or deactivation of the bicycle
100 as an IoT device or communication device. Thus, a retailer,
fleet operator, bike share service, or other provider of the
bicycle, can provide an electric bicycle 100 with or without
network communication functionality, as well as provide an
aftermarket IoT device that can easily be installed to the
frame.
[0092] Of course, the bike communication system 400 can utilize
other mechanical components of the electric bicycle 100 to contain
or be part of the antenna 420, such as components located at
various endpoints of the bicycle 100 and/or at positions that
provide clear, unobstructed communication paths between the placed
antennas and the network 170. Example mechanical or frame
components 410 include:
[0093] A crank set, such as a crank arm, bottom bracket, and/or one
or more chain rings of the crankset;
[0094] Handlebars, such as the ends of handlebars;
[0095] Rear racks and other accessories attached to a rear portion
of the electric bicycle 100;
[0096] A wiring harness or other electric components of the
electric bicycle 100;
[0097] Safety flags or posts of safety flags; and so on.
[0098] Thus, in some embodiments, utilizing a mechanical component
of the electric bicycle 100 enables the communication device 150 to
receive/transmit information from/to the bicycle 100 from a
position of the electric bicycle 100 that is unobstructed from
other components of the electric bicycle 100, among other benefits.
Further, by utilizing mechanical components, the bike communication
system 400 can prevent or deter tampering or avoiding the
communication capabilities of the bicycle 100, because removal of
or tampering to the antenna can cause the bicycle 100 to be
inoperable, among other benefits.
Examples of Performing Security Actions for an Electric Bicycle
[0099] As described herein, in some embodiments, the systems and
methods provide various techniques for identifying, selecting,
and/or performing security actions for an electric bicycle. FIG. 6
is a block diagram illustrating example components or modules of a
security action system 600.
[0100] The modules can be implemented with a combination of
software (e.g., executable instructions, or computer code) and
hardware (e.g., at least a memory and processor). Accordingly, as
used herein, in some example embodiments, a module is a
processor-implemented module and represents a computing device
having a processor that is at least temporarily configured and/or
programmed by executable instructions stored in memory to perform
one or more of the particular functions that are described herein.
The security action system 600 includes a sensor module 610, a
selection module 620, and an action module 630.
[0101] In some embodiments, the sensor module 610 is configured
and/or programmed to receive or access information captured by one
of more sensors of the electric bicycle 610. For example, the
sensor module 610 can receive information from different sensors
fixed or attached to the electric bicycle 100, including sensors
configured or implemented to capture movement information for the
electric bicycle 100, status information for one or more components
of the electric bicycle 100, location information for the electric
bicycle 100, environmental information for the location through
which the electric bicycle 100 is traveling, and so on. Further
details regarding the types of sensors and the information captured
by the sensors is described herein.
[0102] In some embodiments, the selection module 620 is configured
and/or programmed to apply one or more rules to the received
information. For example, the selection module 620 can access one
or more stored rules or instructions that set forth processes for
determining whether to perform a safety action at a given time. The
rules or instructions, in some cases, identify an action to perform
in response to certain information, or patterns of information,
captured by the sensors and provided to the sensor module 610.
[0103] For example, the selection module 620 can apply one or more
of the following rules to received sensor information:
[0104] In some embodiments, the action module 630 is configured
and/or programmed to select or determine a security action to
perform by the electric bicycle 100 and/or by one or more
components (e.g., a horn or alarm, a motor, a controller) of the
electric bicycle 100. For example, the action module 630 determines
one or more actions based on the rules applied by the selection
module 620.
[0105] Example actions can include: sending an alert to a rider or
owner of the electric bicycle 100, sending an alert to a security
service or fleet manager associated with monitoring the electric
bicycle 100, causing the electric bicycle 100 to initiate an alarm
(e.g., an audible or visible alarm), shutting down one or more
components of the electric bicycle 100 (e.g., shutting down the
battery 110, controller 120, and/or motor 130 of the electric
bicycle 100), locking one or more components of the electric
bicycle (e.g., causing the lock 140 or 145 to secure the real
wheel, locking movement of the fork or front wheel of the electric
bicycle 100), and other actions that deter or prevent movement,
theft, or tampering of the electric bicycle 100 and/or various
components.
[0106] As described herein, the systems and methods utilize
combinations of input data or information when selecting and
determining the actions to perform for the electric bicycle 100
and/or its rider/user. By performing actions based on certain
combinations of data/information, the systems and methods can avoid
false alarms or erroneous determinations that can occur within
conventional systems. In some cases, the bike supported network,
which enables communications between different systems, devices,
and/or components, enables actions to be selected and/or determined
based on multiple inputs and associated input combinations. In
doing so, the systems and methods facilitate and provide an
enhanced and robust alert and alarm system that performs actions
tailored to theft or tampering events associated with the electric
bicycle 100, among other benefits.
[0107] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating various components of
a multi-factor alert system 700. The multi-factor alert system 700
includes various sensors 710, which capture information about the
electric bicycle 100 and/or components of the electric bicycle 100.
The sensors can be deployed at various positions on the electric
bicycle 100, including within the controller 120, the security
device 140, the motor 130, the battery 110, and various bicycle
components or parts (e.g., the frame, the wheels, the tires, the
handlebars, the fork, the pedals, and so on).
[0108] The sensors 710 can include one or more movement sensors
710A, which capture or measure information about the movement of
the electric bicycle (e.g., speed, velocity, acceleration,
orientation, and so on). For example, the movement sensors 710A can
capture information that indicates the bicycle 100 is moving, the
bicycle 100 is not moving, the bicycle 100 is moving at a certain
speed or acceleration, the bicycle 100 is moving in a vertical
direction, and so on.
[0109] The sensors 710 can also include one or more tamper sensors
710B, which capture or measure information that indicates a
component of the bicycle 100 has been tampered with or is otherwise
inoperable. For example, the tamper sensors 710B can capture
information that indicates a wheel has been cut, a tire has been
punctured, the lock 145 has been tampered with, the battery 110 has
been removed or partially removed, and so on.
[0110] The sensors 710 can also include one or more location
sensors 710C, such as GPS sensors, which capture or measure a
geographical location of the bicycle 100. Further, the sensors 710
can include one or more proximity sensors 710D, which capture or
measure information that indicates whether the electric bicycle 100
is proximate to a paired or associated device (e.g., a mobile
device of a user, a charger associated with the bicycle 100, a bike
rack or other location where the bicycle 100 is secured, and so
on). Of course, the sensors 710 can include other sensors
configured to capture information about the electric bicycle 100
and/or the environment within which the bicycle 100 is located.
[0111] The multi-factor alert system 700 includes a decision engine
720, which is configured to determine and/or select one or more
security actions to perform in response to input received from the
sensors 710. The decision engine 720, which can include some or all
of the modules of the security action system 600 described herein,
can utilize multiple inputs from the sensors 710 when selection an
action or actions to perform.
[0112] Further, the decision engine 720 can utilize information
stored in one or more databases when determining actions. The
decision engine 720 can access information stored in a fleet
database 725, such as information that identifies a fleet or group
of bicycles associated with the electric bicycle 100. The fleet
database 725 can store information that identifies the fleet or
owner of the fleet, information that tracks locations of other
bicycles within the fleet, and so on.
[0113] The decision engine 720 can also access a context database
727, which stores information associated with a current or
predicted context for the electric bicycle 100. For example, the
context database 727 can store information identifying the rider of
the bicycle 100, the owner of the bicycle 100, the current route of
the bicycle 100, a predicted or known route for the bicycle 100, a
history of locations/routes traveled by the bicycle 100, and so
on.
[0114] The decision engine 720 also access one or more rules from a
rules database 729. The rules database 729 can include rules to be
applied to input received from the sensors 710 when the decision
engine 720 determines an action or actions to perform. For example,
the rules database 729 stores some or all of the rules described
herein.
[0115] In some embodiments, the decision engine 720 and the
databases 725, 727, 729 (and/or security action system 600) are
located within the controller 120 and/or lock 145 that acts as a
hub for the bike supported network. However, aspects can also
reside at various locations remote from the bicycle 100, such as at
the security system of the remote server 310, the fleet management
system 330, and/or the mobile application 325 depicted in FIG.
3.
[0116] Referring back to FIG. 7, the decision engine 720 can select
or determine one or more actions 730 to perform on behalf of the
bicycle 100. For example, the decision engine 720 can select or
determine an alert 730A to send to an owner of the bicycle 100, can
select or determine a notification or message 730B to send to the
owner of the bicycle 100, can select or determine an alarm to be
performed by the bicycle 730C, and/or select or determine a disable
action 730D, which causes one or more components of the bicycle 100
to be disabled and stop operating.
[0117] Thus, the security action system 600 and/or the decision
engine 720 of the multi-factor alert system 700 perform various
processes or methods when determining an action or actions to
perform. FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method
800 of presenting a security action for an electric bicycle. The
method 800 may be performed by the system 600 or system 700 and,
accordingly, is described herein merely by way of reference
thereto. It will be appreciated that the method 800 may be
performed on any suitable hardware.
[0118] In operation 810, the system 600 receives input from two or
more distinct or disparate sensors. For example, the system 600
receives input from two or more sensors 710. Example input can
include information that identifies the bicycle 100 is moving,
information that identifies the bicycle 100 is within a certain
location or geographical area, information that identifies a
component of the bicycle 100 has been tampered with or is no longer
operable, information that identifies the bicycle 100 is no longer
proximate to an associated device, information that identifies the
type of unlocking protocol, and so on.
[0119] In operation 820, the system 600 applies one or more rules
to the input received from the sensors 710. For example, the system
600 can apply one or more rules stored in the rules database 729,
such as rules that select certain actions to be performed. Example
rules to be applied include:
[0120] If bike is moving, the back wheel is not rotating, and one
or more components have sent a tamper signal, cause alarm to be
performed;
[0121] If wheels are rotating and one or more components have sent
a tamper signal, disable operation of motor or controller;
[0122] If bike is moving and the back wheel is not rotating, cause
alarm to be performed;
[0123] If bike is not moving and one or more components have sent a
tamper signal, cause alarm to be performed;
[0124] If bike is not moving and bike is not proximate to a paired
device, sent a notification to the fleet manager; and so on.
[0125] Thus, the rules include combinations (e.g., two or more
inputs from sensors 710) that map or relate to one of multiple
actions to perform for the bicycle 100.
[0126] In operation 830, the system 600 determines the security
action to perform for the bicycle 100. For example, after applying
one or more selected rules, the system 600 selects a security
action identified by the rule to be performed.
[0127] In operation 840, the system 600 causes an output device to
perform the determined security action. For example, the system 600
can cause a horn to be initiated, an alarm to be performed, a motor
to be disabled, a controller or battery to be disabled, a message,
notification, or alert to be sent, and so on.
[0128] In some embodiments, the system 600 or system 700 can
determine an action to perform by actively retrieving or otherwise
accessing information from the sensors 710 or other bike components
in response to an initial received input. FIG. 9 is a flow diagram
illustrating an example method 900 of determining a security action
for an electric bicycle using information from various bicycle
sensors. The method 900 may be performed by the system 600 or
system 700 and, accordingly, is described herein merely by way of
reference thereto. It will be appreciated that the method 900 may
be performed on any suitable hardware.
[0129] In operation 910, the system 600 receives an alert or other
input from a bike sensor, such as one or more sensors 710. For
example, the system 600 (or system 700) receives a tamper signal
from one or more of the tamper sensors 710B, and/or movement
information from one or more of the movement sensors 710A.
[0130] In operation 920, the system 600 polls additional sensors
for status updates associated with the electric bicycle 100 and its
components. For example, the system 600 can poll or otherwise
request information from other sensors 710, such as sensors 710
that measure the movement or location of the bicycle 100. In some
cases, the system 600 can request information from other
components, such as the controller 120, the lock 145, the motor
130, the battery 110, and so on.
[0131] In operation 930, the system 600 determines a security
action to perform based on the information received from the
sensors (or other components). For example, the system can select
one or more actions 730 to perform based on the information
retrieved when polling the sensors and/or bike components.
[0132] The following example scenario illustrates selecting a
security action based on a polling of sensors or bike components.
The movement sensor 710A measures movement of the back wheel, and
sends an alert to the decision engine 720 that indicates movement
of the back wheel. The decision engine 720 polls both the location
sensor 710C and the proximity sensor 710D for additional
information. The decision engine 720 receives location information
that indicates the bicycle is still within the same geographical
location. Based on this information, the decision engine 720
selects an action to perform that sends a notification to the user
of the electric bicycle 100.
[0133] The following is another example scenario--the decision
engine 720 receives the information indicating the movement of the
back wheel, and polls the controller 120 for a status update. The
controller 120 sends information indicating that the rider of the
bicycle has attempted to use the throttle of the bicycle 100. Based
on this information, the decision engine 720 selects an action to
perform that disables operation of the motor 130 of the bicycle
100, and then sends an alert to the user of the bicycle 100.
[0134] In some embodiments, the system 600 or system 700 can
determine an action to perform based on a known or predicted
context for or associated with the electric bicycle 100. FIG. 10 is
a flow diagram illustrating an example method 1000 of determining a
security action for an electric bicycle based on a context
associated with the electric bicycle. The method 1000 may be
performed by the system 600 or system 700 and, accordingly, is
described herein merely by way of reference thereto. It will be
appreciated that the method 1000 may be performed on any suitable
hardware.
[0135] In operation 1010, the system 600 receives an alert or other
input from a bike sensor, such as one or more sensors 710. For
example, the system 600 (or system 700) receives a tamper signal
from one or more of the tamper sensors 710B, and/or movement
information from one or more of the movement sensors 710A.
[0136] In operation 1020, the system 600 identifies context
information associated with the electric bicycle 100. For example,
the system 600 accesses information stored in the context database
727, such as information associated with a location of the bicycle
100. The location information can identify a current geographical
location of the bicycle 100, a type of location (e.g., city street,
bike path, bike rack area, office complex, campus, and so on) where
the bike is located, the safety information for the current
geographical location of the bicycle 100.
[0137] The safety information can indicate a variety of different
safety factors for the location. Example safety factors
include:
[0138] a historical safety rating for the location (e.g., 1 to 5,
or a binary rating of "safe" versus "unsafe");
[0139] a current or trending safety rating for the location (e.g.,
trending towards unsafe, or safe over the past month);
[0140] whether the location is part of a historical or recent
hotspot for thefts or tampering of bicycle or other vehicles;
[0141] information identifying specific theft/tampering actions at
the location (e.g., more than X locks were cut at the location over
the past Y days, or more than X electric bikes were stolen from the
location over the past Y days);
[0142] information identifying specific theft/tampering actions at
locations proximate to the location; and so on.
[0143] In addition, the context information can indicate the
mechanism used to lock the bicycle 100. For example, the user may
have locked the bicycle 100 via a remote application, via a
biometric (e.g., thumbprint or voice command) action, via a device
paired to the mount 165 of the bicycle 165, via a mechanical
action, and so on.
[0144] In operation 1030, the system 600 determines a security
action to perform based on the context information. For example,
the system 600 can select one or more actions 730 to perform based
on applying the context information to the alert received from the
bike sensor.
[0145] As a first example that illustrates the use of context
information when determining an action to perform, the movement
sensor 710A sends an alert that the bicycle 100 is moving at a
relatively constant speed. The decision engine 720 accesses the
context database 727 and retrieves information that indicates the
bicycle 100 is proximate to a charger at a campus location, and
causes a notification to be sent to the user of the bicycle
100.
[0146] As a second example, the decision engine 720 receive the
movement information and sends a request for context information.
The context information indicates the bicycle 100 is in a new
location tagged as "high theft." Based on the context information,
the decision engine 720 causes an alarm to be sounds at the
bicycle, and sends an alert to a fleet manager associated with the
bicycle 100.
[0147] As a third example, the decision engine 720 receives
information from the tamper sensor 710B that indicates the battery
110 is moving (e.g., possibly indicating that someone is trying to
steal the battery 110). The decision engine 720 determines, based
on the context information, that there has been a 200% increase in
battery thefts in the area in the past month, and causes the
bicycle 100 to sound an alarm at the bicycle 100 (or, in some
cases, cause the battery to be inoperable).
[0148] As a fourth example, the tamper sensor 710B sends an alert
that a wheel lock of the bicycle has been mechanically unlocked via
a key mechanism. The decision engine 720 accesses the context
database 727 and retrieves information that indicates the bicycle
100 was locked via a biometric input (e.g., a thumbprint), and
based on a mismatch of lock/unlock mechanisms, sends an alert to
the user of the bicycle (and, optionally, sounds an alarm at the
bicycle 100).
[0149] Thus, the system 600 and/or system 700 can utilize various
types of information when selecting and/or determining actions to
perform in response to possible or detected theft/tampering
activities at the bicycle 100. In doing so, the systems 600, 700
seek to determine an accurate picture of the actual activity at the
bicycle 100, in order to determine which of the various actions to
perform.
[0150] For example, while the movement of a bicycle can indicate an
attempted theft of the bicycle, it can also indicate that the
bicycle is being moved to make room for another bicycle at a bike
rack or charger, or is being moved for other innocuous purposes.
Further, while a tampering signal will often indicate someone is
trying to steal the bicycle, the bicycle may be accidentally
knocked over or bumped into. Thus, the systems and methods seek to
discern nefarious events from the innocent/accidental events at the
bicycle, and perform actions appropriate to such events, among
other benefits.
Examples of Retrofitting a Mechanical Lock
[0151] As described herein, in some embodiments, the systems and
methods are configured to work with conventional mechanical locks,
such as wheel or shackle locks that operate to prevent movement of
the back wheel of a bicycle. For example, the lock 145, which acts
as a communication hub for the electric bicycle 100, can be
retrofitted and incorporated into a conventional lock. FIG. 11 is a
diagram illustrating a configuration 1100 of a lock module 1110
configured to be adapted with a conventional lock, such as the lock
140.
[0152] The lock 140 includes mechanical unlock/lock components,
such as a key lock mechanism 1125 and a combination lock mechanism
1127. Further, the lock 140 can include a second locking mechanism,
such as an integrated cable 1130 lock. Further details regarding
the integrated locking mechanism are found in related U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/875,874, filed on May 15, 2020, entitled
BICYCLE SECURITY DEVICES AND SYSTEM, which is incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0153] The lock module 1110 can connect or otherwise be coupled to
the lock 140 via a cable 1115 and connector 1117. The lock module
1110, which can include the components described herein with
respect to lock 145 and/or lock 200, enables operation of the lock
140 via the bike supported network and its various components.
Thus, the lock module, connected to the bike network, enables the
lock to be operated (e.g., locked or unlocked) via input received
at the associated mobile application 325 and/or via the display
device 160 or other bike control input devices.
[0154] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method
1200 of unlocking the conventional lock 140 using the associated
lock module 1110. The method 1000 may be performed by the lock
module 1110 and, accordingly, is described herein merely by way of
reference thereto. It will be appreciated that the method 1200 may
be performed on any suitable hardware.
[0155] In operation 1210, the lock module 1110 receives a
lock/unlock request from a user of the bicycle 100. For example,
the user can provide input via an associated application (e.g.,
mobile application 325), which is paired to the lock module 1110
over Bluetooth or other communication protocols.
[0156] In operation 1220, the lock module 1110 causes the lock 140
to actuate a lock/unlock action. For example, via the cable 1115
and connection 1117, the lock module causes a motor within the lock
140 to turn on, rotating the shackle or rotating arm to lock or
unlock the wheel. As another example, the lock module 1110 can
cause a spring or other mechanically-actuated mechanism of the lock
140 to release the shackle or rotating arm to lock or unlock the
wheel.
[0157] In operation 1230, the lock module 1110 updates a status of
the lock 140 in a database. For example, the lock module 1110,
after performing an action to lock or unlock the lock 140, causes
one or more databases to update information associated with a
current status (e.g., locked or unlocked) of the lock 140. Such
information can be utilized by the various systems (e.g., systems
600, 700) when determining security actions to perform for the
bicycle 100.
[0158] Thus, in some embodiments, the systems and methods can
retrofit existing locks (e.g., wheel locks) to be part of the bike
supported network and/or to communicate with various remote locking
systems and other security systems, among other benefits.
CONCLUSION
[0159] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout
the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising,"
and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense
of "including, but not limited to." As used herein, the terms
"connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof, means any
connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or
more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can
be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the
words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when
used in this application, shall refer to this application as a
whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where
the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description using
the singular or plural number may also include the plural or
singular number respectively. The word "or", in reference to a list
of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations
of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the
list, and any combination of the items in the list.
[0160] The above detailed description of embodiments of the
disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
teachings to the precise form disclosed above. While specific
embodiments of, and examples for, the disclosure are described
above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications
are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled
in the relevant art will recognize.
[0161] The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be
applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described
above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described
above can be combined to provide further embodiments.
[0162] Any patents and applications and other references noted
above, including any that may be listed in accompanying filing
papers, are incorporated herein by reference. Aspects of the
disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems,
functions, and concepts of the various references described above
to provide yet further embodiments of the disclosure.
[0163] These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in
light of the above Detailed Description. While the above
description describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, and
describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the
above appears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways.
Details of the electric bike and bike frame may vary considerably
in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the
subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, particular
terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the
disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is
being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific
characteristics, features, or aspects of the disclosure with which
that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the
following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosure to
the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the
above Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms.
Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not
only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of
practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.
[0164] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific
embodiments have been described herein for purposes of
illustration, but that various modifications may be made without
deviating from the spirit and scope of the embodiments.
Accordingly, the embodiments are not limited except as by the
appended claims.
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