Patent ID: 7004862
Filing Date: 2006-02-28
Classification: B62M

Abstract:
1. A method of operating an electronically controlled rear derailleur to switch a chain among a plurality of sprockets including a first sprocket and a second sprocket mounted together on a sprocket mounting sleeve that is rotatably supported relative to an axle so that the sprocket mounting sleeve and the plurality of sprockets together rotate relative to the axle around a common axis, wherein the method comprises the steps of: rotating a first sensor element together with the sprocket mounting sleeve and the plurality of sprockets; disposing a second sensor element on the bicycle so that the first sensor element rotates relative to the second sensor element; wherein one of the first sensor element and the second sensor element comprises: receiving a first signal when one of the first sensor element and the second sensor element operatively passes by the first sensor unit as the plurality of sprockets rotate relative to the second sensor element; receiving a second signal when one of the first sensor element and the second sensor element operatively passes by the second sensor unit as the plurality of sprockets rotate relative to the second sensor element; determining a direction of rotation of the plurality of sprockets based on receipt of at least one of the first signal and the second signal; and commanding the derailleur to shift the chain between the first sprocket and the second sprocket in response to receipt of at least one of the first signal and the second signal.