Brake lever and transmission

A brake lever and a transmission with a novel antenna are provided. The brake lever is attachable to the handlebar. The brake lever includes a long portion configured as including an electrically conductive material and an antenna located on the long portion. The antenna includes a first conductor, a second conductor facing the first conductor in a first direction, a third conductor, a fourth conductor, and a power supply line configured to be electromagnetically connected to the third conductor. The third conductor is located between the first conductor and the second conductor, is configured to capacitively connect the first conductor and the second conductor, and extends in the first direction. The fourth conductor is connected to the first conductor and the second conductor and extends in the first direction. The fourth conductor faces the long portion.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a National Phase of International Application Number PCT/JP2020/027961 filed Jul. 17, 2020, and claims the priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-136328 filed Jul. 24, 2019, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-136360 filed Jul. 24, 2019.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a brake lever and a transmission.

BACKGROUND ART

Electromagnetic waves emitted from an antenna are reflected by a metal conductor. A 180° phase shift occurs in the electromagnetic waves reflected by the metal conductor. The reflected electromagnetic waves combine with the electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna. The amplitude may decrease as a result of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna combining with the phase-shifted electromagnetic waves. As a result, the amplitude of the electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna reduces. The effect of the reflected waves is reduced by the distance between the antenna and the metal conductor being set to ¼ of the wavelength λ of the emitted electromagnetic waves.

To address this, a technique for reducing the effect of reflected waves using an artificial magnetic wall has been proposed. This technology is described, for example, in Non-Patent Literature (NPL) 1 and 2.

CITATION LIST

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Technical Problem

However, the techniques described in NPL 1 and 2 require a large number of resonator structures to be aligned.

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a brake lever and a transmission provided with a novel antenna.

Solution to Problem

A brake lever according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is attachable to the handlebar. The brake lever includes a long portion configured as including an electrically conductive material and an antenna located on the long portion. The antenna includes a first conductor, a second conductor facing the first conductor in a first direction, a third conductor, a fourth conductor, and a power supply line configured to be electromagnetically connected to the third conductor. The third conductor is located between the first conductor and the second conductor, is configured to capacitively connect the first conductor and the second conductor, and extends in the first direction. The fourth conductor is connected to the first conductor and the second conductor and extends in the first direction. The fourth conductor faces the long portion.

A transmission according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a transmission for a bicycle. The transmission includes an antenna and a pulley portion configured as including an electrically conductive material. The antenna includes a first conductor, a second conductor facing the first conductor in a first direction, a third conductor, a fourth conductor, and a power supply line electromagnetically connected to the third conductor. The third conductor is located between the first conductor and the second conductor, capacitively connects the first conductor and the second conductor, and extends in the first direction. The fourth conductor is connected to the first conductor and the second conductor and extends in the first direction. The fourth conductor faces the pulley portion.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a brake lever and a transmission with a novel antenna may be provided.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the present disclosure, “dielectric material” may include a composition of either a ceramic material or a resin material. Examples of the ceramic material include an aluminum oxide sintered body, an aluminum nitride sintered body, a mullite sintered body, a glass ceramic sintered body, crystallized glass yielded by precipitation of a crystal component in a glass base material, and a microcrystalline sintered body such as mica or aluminum titanate. Examples of the resin material include an epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide-imide resin, a polyetherimide resin, and resin materials yielded by curing an uncured liquid crystal polymer or the like.

The “electrically conductive material” in the present disclosure may include a composition of any of a metal material, an alloy of metal materials, a cured metal paste, and a conductive polymer. Examples of the metal material include copper, silver, palladium, gold, platinum, aluminum, chrome, nickel, cadmium lead, selenium, manganese, tin, vanadium, lithium, cobalt, and titanium. The alloy includes a plurality of metal materials. The metal paste includes the result of kneading a powder of a metal material with an organic solvent and a binder. Examples of the binder include an epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a polyimide resin, a polyamide-imide resin, and a polyetherimide resin. Examples of the conductive polymer include a polythiophene polymer, a polyacetylene polymer, a polyaniline polymer, and a polypyrrole polymer.

Embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, a Cartesian coordinate system of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis is used. Hereinafter, in cases where the positive direction of the X-axis and the negative direction of the X-axis are not particularly distinguished, the positive direction of the X-axis and the negative direction of the X-axis are collectively referred to as the “X direction”. In cases where the positive direction of the Y-axis and the negative direction of the Y-axis are not particularly distinguished, the positive direction of the Y-axis and the negative direction of the Y-axis are collectively referred to as the “Y direction”. In cases where the positive direction of the Z-axis and the negative direction of the Z-axis are not particularly distinguished, the positive direction of the Z-axis and the negative direction of the Z-axis are collectively referred to as the “Z direction”. Hereinafter, a first direction represents the X direction.

Configuration Example of Antenna

FIG.1is a plan view of a resonator10of an antenna1according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.2is a cross-sectional view of the resonator10taken along a line L-L illustrated inFIG.1.FIG.3is a cross-sectional view of the antenna1according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

The antenna1may be disposed on a brake lever130and a rear derailleur140of a bicycle100illustrated inFIG.5described below. As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the antenna1includes the resonator10and a power supply line60. As illustrated inFIG.3, the antenna1may include a circuit board70, a battery73, a housing80and a housing81, and a secondary emitter82. The antenna1may constitute a wireless communication module with the circuit board70and the like.

The resonator10may resonate at a plurality of predetermined frequencies. The plurality of predetermined frequencies at which the resonator10resonates is also referred to as a plurality of resonant frequencies. One resonant frequency of the plurality of resonant frequencies of the resonator10is described as a resonant frequency f1. The wavelength of the resonant frequency f1is described as a wavelength λ1. At least one of the at least one resonant frequencies may be set as the operating frequency of the resonator10. The resonant frequency f1may be set as the operating frequency of the resonator10. A frequency of an identical frequency band to the resonant frequency f1may be set as the operating frequency of the resonator10.

The resonator10, as described below, exhibits an artificial magnetic conductor character with respect to a predetermined frequency of electromagnetic waves incident on a surface of the resonator10substantially parallel with an XY plane from the positive Z-axis side. In the present disclosure, “artificial magnetic conductor character” means a characteristic of a surface such that the phase difference between incident waves and reflected waves at a resonant frequency becomes 0 degrees. On the surface having the artificial magnetic conductor character, the phase difference between the incident waves and reflected waves in the operating frequency band ranges from −90 degrees to +90 degrees. The operating frequency band includes a resonant frequency and an operating frequency that exhibit an artificial magnetic conductor character.

As illustrated inFIG.3, by the resonator10exhibiting an artificial magnetic conductor character as described above, the emission efficiency of the antenna1can be maintained even when a metal component2is positioned on the negative Z-axis side of the resonator10, i.e., the antenna1. The metal component2may be a portion of the brake lever130or the rear derailleur140illustrated inFIG.5described below. That is, by placing the antenna1on the brake lever130or the rear derailleur140such that the brake lever130or the rear derailleur140illustrated inFIG.5described below is located on the negative Z-axis side of the antenna1, emission efficiency of the antenna1can be maintained.

The resonator10includes a base20, a first conductor31, a second conductor32, a third conductor40, and a fourth conductor50. The first conductor31and the second conductor32are also referred to as a conductor pair30. Each of the first conductor31, the second conductor32, the third conductor40, and the fourth conductor50is configured as including an electrically conductive material. Each of the first conductor31, the second conductor32, the third conductor40, and the fourth conductor50may include an identical electrically conductive material or may include different conductive materials. Each element, such as the first conductor31included in the resonator10, may be adjusted as appropriate in consideration of the gain of the antenna1. The resonator10may be configured as a flexible printed circuit (FPC).

The base20is configured as including a dielectric material. The base20may have a discretionary shape that takes into account the first conductor31and the like. The dielectric constant of base20may be adjusted as appropriate depending on the desired resonant frequency of resonator10. The base20may be roughly a rectangular parallelepiped. As illustrated inFIG.2, the base20includes an upper surface21and a lower surface22. The upper surface21is a surface located on the positive Z-axis side, among the two surfaces that are substantially parallel with the XY plane included in the base20. The lower surface22is a surface on the negative Z-axis side, among the two surfaces that are substantially parallel with the XY plane included in the base20.

The first conductor31and the second conductor32face one another in the X direction. The first conductor31and the second conductor32may be located at both end portions in the X direction of the base20. As illustrated inFIG.2, the first conductor31is electrically connected to an end portion of the fourth conductor50on the negative X-axis side. The second conductor32is electrically connected to an end portion of the fourth conductor50on the positive X-axis side. Each of the first conductor31and the second conductor32extends along the Z direction from the fourth conductor50toward the upper surface21of the base20. The first conductor31includes at least one conductor layer33and at least one conductor35. The first conductor31can include a plurality of the conductor layers33. The first conductor31can include a plurality of the conductors35. The second conductor32includes at least one conductor layer34and at least one conductor36. The second conductor32can include a plurality of the conductor layers34. The second conductor32can include a plurality of the conductors35.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the conductor layer33and the conductor layer34extend along the Y direction. Each of the conductor layer33and the conductor layer34may extend along the XY plane. As illustrated inFIG.2, the conductor layer33and the conductor layer34may have a layer-like form. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers33and a portion of the plurality of conductor layers34may be located on the upper surface21of the base20. The other portions of the plurality of conductor layers33and the other portions of the plurality of conductor layers34may be located within the base20.

The plurality of conductor layers33are located at the end portion of the base20on the negative X-axis side. The plurality of conductor layers33are located separated from one another in the Z direction. Portions of the plurality of conductor layers33overlap in the Z direction. The plurality of conductor layers33electrically connect the plurality of conductors35. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers33may be electrically connected to any one conductor of the third conductor40. In the present embodiment, one conductor layer33is electrically connected to a second conductor layer42A included in the third conductor40. The conductor layer33may be integrally formed with the second conductor layer42A. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers33may be electrically connected with the fourth conductor50. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers33may be integrally formed with the fourth conductor50.

The plurality of conductor layers34are located at the end portion of the base20on the positive X-axis side. The plurality of conductor layers34are located separated from one another in the Z direction. Portions of the plurality of conductor layers34overlap in the Z direction. The plurality of conductor layers34electrically connect the plurality of conductors36. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers34may be electrically connected to any one conductor of the third conductor40. In the present embodiment, one conductor layer34is electrically connected to a second conductor layer42B included in the third conductor40. The conductor layer34may be integrally formed with the second conductor layer42B. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers34may be electrically connected with the fourth conductor50. A portion of the plurality of conductor layers34may be integrally formed with the fourth conductor50.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the plurality of conductors35are aligned, at intervals in the Y direction, at the end portion of the base20on the negative X-axis side. Each conductor35aligned in the Y direction is electrically connected via at least one conductor layer33. The plurality of conductors36are arranged, at intervals in the Y direction, at the end portion of the base20on the positive X-axis side. Each conductor36aligned in the Y direction is electrically connected via at least one conductor layer34. As illustrated inFIG.2, the plurality of conductors35are aligned in the Z direction. Each conductor35aligned in the Z direction is electrically connected via at least one conductor layer33. The plurality of conductors36are aligned in the Z direction. Each conductor36aligned in the Z direction is electrically connected via at least one conductor layer34. The distance between the plurality of conductors35electrically connected and the distance between the plurality of conductors36electrically connected may be equal to or less than one-half of the wavelength λ1. If the distance between these is equal to or less than one-half of the wavelength λ1, leakage of electromagnetic waves in a predetermined frequency band from each of the first conductor31and the second conductor32to the outside of the resonator10can be reduced. By reducing the leakage of electromagnetic waves in a predetermined frequency band, the first conductor31and the second conductor32may function better as the electrical walls described below.

As illustrated inFIG.2, at least a portion of the plurality of conductors35and at least a portion of the plurality of conductors36are electrically connected to the fourth conductor50. A portion of the plurality of conductors35may electrically connect the fourth conductor50and the conductor layer33. A portion of the plurality of conductors36may electrically connect the fourth conductor50and the conductor layer34. The plurality of conductors35may be electrically connected to the fourth conductor50via the conductor layer33. The plurality of conductors36may be electrically connected to the fourth conductor50via the conductor layer34. Each of the conductor35and the conductor36may be a via conductor or a through hole conductor.

The third conductor40extends along the X direction. The third conductor40is configured to capacitively connect the first conductor31and the second conductor32. The third conductor40is located between the first conductor31and the second conductor32. By the third conductor40being located between the first conductor31and the second conductor32, from the view of the third conductor40, the first conductor31is treated as an electrical wall extending in a YZ plane on the negative X-axis side, and the second conductor32is treated as an electrical wall extending in the YZ plane on the positive X-axis side. Moreover, as seen from the third conductor40, no conductor or the like is disposed on an end on the positive Y-axis side and an end of the third conductor40on the negative Y-axis side. In other words, as seen from the third conductor40, the end of the third conductor40on the positive Y-axis side and the end of the third conductor40on the negative Y-axis side are electrically open. Because the end of the third conductor40on the positive Y-axis side and the end of the third conductor40on the negative Y-axis side are electrically open, an XZ plane on the positive Y-axis side and the XZ plane on the negative Y-axis side are treated as magnetic walls from the third conductor40. The third conductor40is surrounded by these two electrical walls and two magnetic walls, thus the resonator10exhibits artificial magnetic conductor character with respect to a predetermined frequency of electromagnetic waves incident on the upper surface21of the base20from the positive Z-axis side.

The third conductor40includes at least one first conductor layer41and at least one second conductor layer42. In the present embodiment, the third conductor40includes one first conductor layer41and two second conductor layers42, i.e., the second conductor layer42A and the second conductor layer42B. The third conductor40is also referred to as a conductor group when configured as including a plurality of conductors.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the first conductor layer41extends along the XY plane. First conductor layer41may be located on the upper surface21of the base20. The first conductor layer41is not electrically connected to the first conductor31and the second conductor32. The first conductor layer41may be substantially rectangular.

The first conductor layer41is configured to capacitively connect the second conductor layer42A and the second conductor layer42B. For example, as illustrated inFIG.2, an end portion of the first conductor layer41on the negative X-axis side faces a portion of the second conductor layer42A via a portion of the base20in the Z direction. The end portion of the first conductor layer41in the negative X-axis side is configured to be capacitively connected to the second conductor layer42A, by facing a portion of the second conductor layer42A via a portion of the base20. Also, an end portion of the first conductor layer41on the positive X-axis side faces a portion of the second conductor layer42B via a portion of the base20in the Z direction. The end portion of the first conductor layer41in the positive X-axis side is configured to be capacitively connected to the second conductor layer42B, by facing a portion of the second conductor layer42B via a portion of the base20.

The second conductor layer42A and the second conductor layer42B are configured to be capacitively connected via the first conductor layer41. The second conductor layer42A and the second conductor layer42B are located closer to the fourth conductor50than the first conductor layer41. The second conductor layer42A and the second conductor layer42may be located within the base20.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the second conductor layer42A and the second conductor layer42B extends along the XY plane. As illustrated inFIG.2, the second conductor layer42A is located between the first conductor31and the second conductor32closer to the first conductor31. The second conductor layer42A is electrically connected to the conductor layer33of the first conductor31. The second conductor layer42B is located between the first conductor31and the second conductor32closer to the second conductor32. The second conductor layer42B is electrically connected to the conductor36of the second conductor32.

The fourth conductor50is electrically connected to the first conductor31and the second conductor32. The fourth conductor50may have a layer-like form. The fourth conductor50is located on the lower surface22of the base20. A portion of the fourth conductor50may be located within the base20. The fourth conductor50may include an opening51.

The fourth conductor50is located separated from the third conductor40. The fourth conductor50may face the third conductor40. The fourth conductor50may extend along the third conductor40. The fourth conductor50may extend along the X direction. The fourth conductor50may extend along the XY plane.

The electric potential of the fourth conductor50may be equivalent to the reference potential of the electronic device provided with the antenna1. The fourth conductor50may be electrically connected to the ground of the electronic device provided with the antenna1.

The power supply line60is electrically connected to the third conductor40. In the present disclosure, an “electromagnetic connection” may be an electrical connection or a magnetic connection. In the present embodiment, one end of the power supply line60is electrically connected to the first conductor layer41of the third conductor40. The other end of the power supply line60is electrically connected to an RF module or the like via the opening51of the fourth conductor50via the circuit board70illustrated inFIG.3. A portion of the power supply line60is located within the base20. The power supply line60may extend along the Z direction. The power supply line60may be a through hole conductor, a via conductor, or the like.

The power supply line60is configured to supply electrical power from the RF module or the like to the third conductor40via the circuit board70illustrated inFIG.3when the antenna1emits electromagnetic waves by the resonator10. The power supply line60is configured to supply electrical power from the third conductor40to the RF module or the like via the circuit board70illustrated inFIG.3when the antenna1receives electromagnetic waves by the resonator10.

As illustrated inFIG.3, the resonator10may be located on the circuit board70. In a case where the antenna1does not include the circuit board70and the housing81, the resonator10may be disposed directly on the metal component2. The circuit board70may be configured as a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) or may be configured as an FPC. The circuit board70includes an insulation substrate71and a conductor layer72. The insulation substrate71is substantially parallel to the XY plane. The conductor layer72is located on the surface on the positive Z-axis side of the two surfaces that are substantially parallel with the XY plane included in the insulation substrate71. The conductor layer72is also referred to as a ground layer. The conductor layer72may be integrally formed with the fourth conductor50of the resonator10.

The battery73is configured to be able to supply electrical power to components of the antenna1as a wireless communication module. The battery73may include at least one of a primary battery or a secondary battery. The negative pole of the battery73may be electrically connected to the conductor layer72as a ground layer of the circuit board70. The negative pole of the battery73may be electrically connected to the fourth conductor50of the resonator10.

The housing80and the housing81may protect various components of a wireless communication module that includes the antenna1. Examples of components of a wireless communication module that includes the antenna1may include the resonator10, the circuit board70, the battery73, and the like. The housing80and the housing81may be made of a discretionary material such as a dielectric material or an electrically conductive material.

The housing80may expand along the XY plane. The housing80may have a flat plate shape substantially parallel to the XY plane. The housing80supports various components of the antenna1. The housing80may support the resonator10, the circuit board70, and the battery73. The housing80includes an upper surface80A. The upper surface80A is a surface located on the positive Z-axis side, among the two surfaces that are substantially parallel with the XY plane of the housing80. The circuit board70and the battery73may be aligned in the X direction on the upper surface80A.

The housing81may cover various components of the antenna1. The housing81includes an upper surface81A and a lower surface81B. The upper surface81A is a surface facing an opposite side of the resonator10, among the surfaces of the housing81. The upper surface81B is a surface facing the resonator10, among the surfaces of the housing81. The upper surface81A and the lower surface81B may extend along the XY plane. The upper surface81A and the lower surface81B may be substantially parallel with the XY plane. The upper surface81A and the lower surface81B may be flat. The upper surface81A and the lower surface81B are not limited to being flat and may include recesses and protrusions.

The secondary emitter82may include an electrically conductive material. The secondary emitter82is located on the lower surface81B of the housing81. However, the secondary emitter82may be located anywhere on the housing81. For example, the secondary emitter82may be located on the upper surface81A. For example, secondary emitter82may be located inside the housing81on a side surface thereof or may be located on an exterior side surface of the housing81. For example, the secondary emitter82may be embedded within the housing81.

The secondary emitter82faces the resonator10. The secondary emitter82may face the third conductor40of the resonator10. A portion of the secondary emitter82may face the battery73. The secondary emitter82is separated from the resonator10. That is, the secondary emitter82is not electrically connected to the conductors of the resonator10. However, as illustrated inFIG.4, the secondary emitter82may come into contact with the resonator10.FIG.4is a cross-sectional view of an antenna1aaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure. In the configuration illustrated inFIG.4, the secondary emitter82may be integrally formed with the resonator10.

The secondary emitter82includes a first portion82A. The first portion82A faces the resonator10in the Z direction. The first portion82A may overlap the third conductor40of the resonator10in the Z direction. In addition to the first portion82A, the secondary emitter82may include at least a second portion that faces the resonator10in the X direction and a third portion that faces the resonator10in the Y direction.

The secondary emitter82may include a first extension portion82B and a second extension portion82C. The first extension portion82B extends more toward the negative X-axis side than the first conductor31of the resonator10in the X direction. The second extension portion82C extends more toward the positive X-axis side than the second conductor32of the resonator10in the X direction. Each of the first extension portion82B and the second extension portion82C may be electrically connected to the first portion82A. The second extension portion82C may face the battery73in the Z direction. The second extension portion82C may be configured to capacitively connect with the battery73. That is, the second extension portion82C, the battery73, and the space between the second extension portion82C and the battery73may be configured to give rise to capacitance. Because the secondary emitter82includes the first extension portion82B and the second extension portion82C, the antenna1may increase the gain in air.

The secondary emitter82is configured to electromagnetically connect to any conductor included in the resonator10. The first portion82A of the secondary emitter82may be configured to electromagnetically connect to the resonator10. As described above, the first portion82A may overlap the third conductor40of the resonator10in the Z direction. Overlapping the first portion82A and the third conductor40of the resonator10can increase the propagation of the electromagnetic waves from the electromagnetic connection between the secondary emitter82and the third conductor40. The electromagnetic connection between the secondary emitter82and the third conductor40can be mutual inductance. The secondary emitter82may be configured to electromagnetically connect to the fourth conductor50included in the resonator10.

The secondary emitter82may extend along the X direction. The secondary emitter82may extend along the XY plane. The length of the secondary emitter82in the X direction may be greater than the length of the resonator10in the X direction. The length of the secondary emitter82may be greater than one-half of the wavelength λ1. The secondary emitter82may include a portion that extends along the Y direction. The secondary emitter82may bend in the XY plane. The secondary emitter82may include a portion that extends along the Z direction. The secondary emitter82may bend from the XY plane toward the YZ plane or from the XY plane toward the XZ plane.

In the antenna1provided with the secondary emitter82, the resonator10and the secondary emitter82are configured to electromagnetically connect to one another. The operating frequency of the antenna1in a configuration in which the resonator10and the secondary emitter82are electromagnetically connected will be described as an operating frequency fc. The operating frequency fcof the antenna1may be different from the resonant frequency f1of the resonator10. The operating frequency fcof the antenna1may be closer to the resonant frequency f1of the resonator10than the resonant frequency of the secondary emitter82. The operating frequency fcof the antenna1may be within the resonant frequency band of the resonator10. The operating frequency fcof the antenna1may be outside the resonant frequency band of the secondary emitter82.

Configuration Example of Bicycle

FIG.5is an external view of the bicycle100according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The bicycle100may be human-powered. However, the “bicycle” of the present disclosure is not limited to a bicycle that is only human-powered. The “bicycle” of the present disclosure is only required to include a handlebar and a wheel. For example, the “bicycle” of the present disclosure may include a power assist electric bike, an electric bicycle, and a two-wheel drive bicycle. The “bicycle” of the present disclosure is not limited to a two-wheeled vehicle. For example, a “bicycle” may include a single-wheeled vehicle, a three-wheeled vehicle, and a four-wheeled vehicle. Note that the classification of “bicycle” is not limited to those described above. For example, a “bicycle” may include a tandem bicycle.

The bicycle100includes a frame101, a handlebar102R, a handlebar102L, a crank103, a pedal104, a front wheel105, a rear wheel106, a front sprocket107, a rear sprocket108, and a chain109. The bicycle100includes a battery110, a front derailleur120, the brake lever130, and the rear derailleur140(transmission).

The frame101may include an electrically conductive material or carbon fiber reinforced plastic. The frame101supports various elements of the bicycle100. The frame101includes a head tube101A, a front fork101B, a seat stay101C, a down tube101D, and a rear fork end101H.

The handlebar102R and the handlebar102L are configured to be attachable to the head tube101A via a stem. The handlebar102R is located on the right side of the driver. The driver may grasp the handlebar102R with the right hand. The handlebar102L is located on the left side of the driver. The driver may grasp the handlebar102L with the left hand.

The crank103includes a crankshaft103A and an arm103B. The pedal104is attached to the arm103B. The driver rotates the pedal104by the foot. The driver applies a driving force to the pedal104by rotating the pedal104. The driving force applied to the pedal104is transmitted to the rear wheel106via the crank103and the like.

The front wheel105and the rear wheel106are each configured as including a tire, a rim, a hub, and the like. The front wheel105is attached to an end portion of the front fork101B of the frame101. The rear wheel106is attached to an end portion of the seat stay101C of the frame101. A driving force from the pedal104is transmitted to the rear wheel106via the crank103, the front sprocket107, the rear sprocket108, and the chain109. The rear wheel106is configured to be rotated by the driving force transmitted from the pedal104.

The front sprocket107is configured as including a plurality of sprockets (gears). The front sprocket107is attached in a manner such that it rotates integrally with the crankshaft3A of the crank103. The chain109is wound by the front derailleur120onto any one of the plurality of sprockets of the front sprocket107.

The rear sprocket108is configured as including a plurality of sprockets (gears). The rear sprocket108is attached to the hub of the rear wheel106. The chain109is wound by the rear derailleur140onto any one of the plurality of sprockets of the rear sprocket108.

The chain109is wound around the front sprocket107and the rear sprocket108. A gear ratio is determined on the basis of a sprocket, from the plurality of sprockets of the front sprocket107, onto which the chain109is wound and a sprocket, from the plurality of sprockets of the rear sprocket108, onto which the chain109is wound.

The battery110may include a lithium ion battery, a nickel hydrogen battery, or the like. The battery110is attached to the down tube101D of the frame101. The battery110is capable of supplying power to the components of the bicycle100. The components of the bicycle100to which the battery110is capable of supplying power to may include the front derailleur120, the brake lever130, the rear derailleur140, and the like.

The front derailleur120is configured to move the chain109between the plurality of sprockets of the front sprocket107on the basis of the operation of the driver. The front derailleur120may be configured to move the chain109on the basis of the operation of the driver with respect to the brake lever130on the left, described below.

The brake lever130is attachable to either the handlebar102R or the handlebar102L. Hereinafter, the brake lever130that is attachable to the handlebar102R will be described as the “right brake lever130”. The brake lever130that is attachable to the handlebar102L will be described as the “left brake lever130”.

In a case where the brake lever130is the right brake lever130, the brake lever130is configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the brake of the front wheel105. Also, in a case where the brake lever130is the left brake lever130, the brake lever130is configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the brake of the rear wheel106. However, the right brake lever130may be configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the brake of the rear wheel106, and the left brake lever130may be configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the brake of the front wheel105.

In a case where the brake lever130is the right brake lever130, the brake lever130is configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the rear derailleur140. That is, the right brake lever130is associated with the rear derailleur140. Also, in a case where the brake lever130is the left brake lever130, the brake lever130is configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the front derailleur120. That is, the left brake lever130is associated with the front derailleur120. However, the right brake lever130may be configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the front derailleur120, and the left brake lever130may be configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to the rear derailleur140. Note that in a case where the brake lever130is configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to both the rear derailleur140and the front derailleur120, the brake lever130may also be referred to as a dual control lever.

The brake lever130will be described in detail below. In the description below, the brake lever130is the right brake lever130.

Configuration Example of Brake Lever

FIG.6is a configuration diagram of the brake lever130illustrated inFIG.5. The brake lever130includes a body portion131, a clamp portion132(long portion), a first lever member133(long portion), and a second lever member134.

A metal component and the like for attaching the first lever member133and the second lever member134to the body portion131are housed inside the body portion131. The body portion131includes a cover member that covers the metal components and the like. The clamp portion132is located on one end of the body portion131. At the other end of the body portion131, the first lever member133and the second lever member134are located.

The clamp portion132is configured as including an electrically conductive material. The clamp portion132is capable of clamping the handlebar102R. The clamp portion132clamps the handlebar102R such that the brake lever130is secured to the handlebar102R. The clamp portion132may be ring-shaped. The clamp portion132may be an elliptical ring shape or a circular ring shape depending on the outer circumference of the handlebar102R. The clamp portion132includes an outer surface132A. The outer surface132A is a surface facing the outer side of the ring-shaped clamp portion132, among the outer surfaces of the ring-shaped clamp portion132.

The first lever member133is configured as including an electrically conductive material. The first lever member133extends from the body portion131toward the front wheel105of the bicycle100. The first lever member133includes an outer surface133A and an outer surface133B. The outer surface133A is a surface facing an opposite side of the clamp portion132, among the outer surfaces of the first lever member133. The outer surface133A may be an outwardly curved surface that protrudes to the opposite side of the clamp portion132. The outer surface133B is a surface facing the clamp portion132, among the outer surfaces of the first lever member133. The outer surface133B may be an inwardly curved surface that recesses to the opposite side of the clamp portion132.

The first lever member133is movably attached to the body portion131. The first lever member133may move in a direction A. The direction A is the direction from the first lever member133toward the clamp portion132. The first lever member133is configured to move in the direction A when a force directed toward the direction A is applied to the outer surface of the first lever member133. The first lever member133is configured to return to a predetermined position when the force applied to the outer surface of the first lever member133is released. The first lever member133may move in a direction B. The direction B is the direction from the right side to the left side when the driver views the first lever member133. The first lever member133is configured to move in the direction B when a force directed toward the direction B is applied to the outer surface of the first lever member133. The first lever member133is configured to return to a predetermined position when the force applied to the outer surface of the first lever member133is released.

The second lever member134may include a discretionary material such as a resin material. The second lever member134is located closer to the clamp portion132than the first lever member133. The length of the second lever member134is less than the length of the first lever member133. The second lever member134includes a plate-like portion134A and a connection portion134D. The plate-like portion134A may have a discretionary shape. The plate-like portion134A may be substantially rectangular or may be substantially triangular. The plate-like portion134A includes an outer surface134B and a side surface134C. The outer surface134B is an outer surface on the right side when viewed from the driver, among the outer surfaces of the plate-like portion134A. The side surface134C is a surface facing the clamp portion132, among the side surfaces of the plate-like portion134A. In other words, the side surface134C is the surface facing an opposite side of the first lever member133, among the side surfaces of the plate-like portion134A. The connection portion134D connects the body portion131and the plate-like portion134A. The connection portion134D may be rod-shaped.

The second lever member134is movably attached to the body portion131. The second lever member134may move in the direction B. The second lever member134is configured to move in the direction B when a force directed toward the direction B is applied to the plate-like portion134A. The second lever member134is configured to return to a predetermined position when the force applied to the plate-like portion134A is released.

The driver operates the first lever member133and the second lever member134on the basis of the specifications of the first lever member133and the second lever member134.

In the present embodiment, in the specifications of the first lever member133, the front wheel105is configured to brake when the first lever member133is moved in the direction A. As such, the driver moves the first lever member133toward the direction A when they desire to decelerate the rotation of the front wheel105by braking. When the driver desires to release the brake on the front wheel105, the driver returns the first lever member133to the predetermined position.

In the present embodiment, in the specifications of the second lever member134, the rear derailleur140is configured to shift up a gear when the second lever member134is moved in the direction B. In the present embodiment, in the specifications of the first lever member133, the rear derailleur140is configured to shift down a gear when the first lever member133is moved in the direction B. As such, the driver moves the second lever member134toward the direction B when they desire to shift the rear derailleur140up a gear. The driver moves the first lever member133toward the direction B when they desire to shift the rear derailleur140down a gear.

When operating the first lever member133, the driver hooks their right thumb around the handlebar102R and places their right index finger or the like on the outer surface133A. When the driver moves the first lever member133toward the direction A, the right index finger or the like on the outer surface133A is brought closer to the right thumb hooked around the handlebar102R, applying a force directed in the direction A on the outer surface133A. When the driver moves the first lever member133toward the direction B, the right index finger or the like on the outer surface133A moves in the direction B, applying a force directed in the direction B on the outer surface133A.

In this manner, in the first lever member133, the outer surface133A can be a surface with a relatively high probability of being touched by the driver among the outer surfaces of the first lever member133when the driver operates the first lever member133. In contrast, the outer surface133B is located on the opposite side to the outer surface133A that the driver puts their finger on. As such, the outer surface133B can be a surface with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver among the outer surfaces of the first lever member133when the driver operates the first lever member133.

When operating the second lever member134, the driver hooks their right thumb around the handlebar102R and places their right index finger or the like on the outer surface134B of the plate-like portion134A. When the driver moves the second lever member134toward the direction B, the right index finger or the like on the outer surface134B moves in the direction B, applying a force directed in the direction B on the plate-like portion134A of the second lever member134.

In this manner, in the second lever member134, the outer surface134B can be a surface with a relatively high probability of being touched by the driver among the outer surfaces of the second lever member134when the driver operates the second lever member134. In contrast, the side surface134C may be a surface with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver among the outer surfaces of the second lever member134. Also, the connection portion134D may be a portion with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver.

As illustrated inFIG.6, the brake lever130according to the present embodiment may include at least one of antennas1A,1B,1C,1D,1E, or1F. The antennas1A to1F may be disposed at a section of the brake lever130with a low probability of being touched by the driver. By at least one of the antennas1A to1F being provided, the brake lever130can be given a wireless communication function. The brake lever130with a wireless communication function may be capable of communicating with the rear derailleur140with a wireless communication function. In this case, the antennas1A to1F may be disposed on the brake lever130at a section facing the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. The antennas1A to1F have an identical configuration to the antenna1illustrated inFIG.1or the antenna1aillustrated inFIG.4. In other words, the antennas1A to1F include the first conductor31, the second conductor32, the third conductor40, the fourth conductor50, and the power supply line60.

The antenna1A may be disposed on the brake lever130with the fourth conductor50facing the first lever member133as a long portion. The antenna1A may be disposed directly on the first lever member133. In a case where the antenna1A is disposed directly on the first lever member133, the first lever member133may correspond to the metal component2illustrated inFIG.3orFIG.4. In a case where the antenna1A is not provided with the circuit board70and the housing80illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the fourth conductor50may be disposed on the first lever member133in direct contact with the first lever member133, i.e., the metal component2. By disposing the antenna1A with the fourth conductor50facing the first lever member133, the first lever member133including the electrically conductive material may be located on the negative Z-axis side as illustrated inFIG.1and the like of the antenna1A. As described above, in a configuration in which the metal component2is located on the negative Z-axis side of the antenna1A, the emission efficiency of the antenna1A can be maintained. That is, by disposing the antenna1A with the fourth conductor50facing the first lever member133, the emission efficiency of the antenna1A can be maintained.

The antenna1A may be disposed on the first lever member133such that the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like is aligned with the direction in which the first lever member133as a long portion extends. The antenna1A may be configured such that the fourth conductor50of the antenna1A and the first lever member133are capacitively connected by the antenna1being disposed on the first lever member133such that the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like is aligned with the direction in which the first lever member133extends. The fourth conductor50of the antenna1A and the first lever member133are capacitively connected such that when the antenna1A emits electromagnetic waves, a current can be induced in the first lever member133. The current induced in the first lever member133may cause the first lever member133to emit electromagnetic waves. By causing the first lever member133to emit electromagnetic waves via a current induced in the first lever member133, the overall emission efficiency of the antenna1A when emitting electromagnetic waves can be improved.

Antenna1A may be configured to be able to be attached to the bicycle100with the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like aligned with the forward direction of the bicycle100. As illustrated inFIG.5, the forward direction of the bicycle100is a direction in which the bicycle100can travel forward when the handlebars102R,102L of the bicycle100are set straight. In a case where the antenna1A is attached aligned with the forward direction of the bicycle100, the damping caused when the electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna1A are reflected off the ground can be increased. Compared to a case where the antenna1A is attached with the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like aligned with a turning direction of the bicycle100, when the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like is aligned with the forward direction of the bicycle100, the damping caused when the electromagnetic waves emitted from the antenna1A are reflected off the ground can be increased. The turning direction of the bicycle is a direction in which the bicycle100can travel forward when the handlebars102R,102L of the bicycle100are turned to the left or right. With this configuration, the antenna1A can reduce the interference to direct waves by reflected waves.

The antenna1A may be disposed on the outer surface133B among the outer surfaces of the first lever member133. As described above, the outer surface133B can be a surface with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver among the outer surfaces of the first lever member133when the driver operates the first lever member133. By the antenna1A being located on the outer surface133B, the probability of the driver touching the antenna1A may be reduced. By reducing the probability of the driver touching the antenna1A, the probability that the antenna1A fails due to the driver touching the antenna1A can be reduced.

In a case where the antenna1A does not include the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antenna1A may be disposed such that the third conductor40faces the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. Also, in a case where the antenna1A includes the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antenna1A may be disposed such that the emission direction of the secondary emitter82faces the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. In other words, the antenna1A may be disposed such that the positive direction of the Z-axis illustrated inFIGS.3and4is aligned with the direction from the first lever member133toward the rear derailleur140. By the third conductor40or the secondary emitter82emitting electromagnetic waves facing the rear derailleur140, communication efficiency between the antenna1A and the rear derailleur140as a communication partner can be improved.

The antennas1B to1E are located on the second lever member134. The antennas1B to1E are disposed on the second lever member134such that the fourth conductor50of the antennas1B to1E faces the first lever member133as a long portion. In a similar manner to the antenna1A, by disposing the antennas1B to1E with the fourth conductor50of the antennas1B to1E facing the first lever member133, the emission efficiency of the antennas1B to1E can be maintained. In a similar manner to the antenna1A described above, in a case where each of the antennas1B to1E does not include the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antennas1B to1E may be disposed such that the third conductor40faces the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. In a similar manner to the antenna1A, in a case where each of the antennas1B to1E includes the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antennas1B to1E may be disposed such that the emission direction of the secondary emitter82faces the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. Such a configuration may improve the communication efficiency between the antennas1E to1E and the rear derailleur140as a communication partner.

The antennas1B to1E may be constituted of an FPC. Here, the outer surface and the like of the second lever member134may include curved sections. By the antennas1B to1E being constituted of an FPC, a curved section can be more easily disposed on each of the antennas1B to1E.

The antenna1B is disposed on the connection portion134D of the second lever member134. As described above, the connection portion134D may be a portion with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver. By disposing the antenna1B on the connection portion134D, the probability that the antenna1B fails due to the driver touching the antenna1B can be reduced. The antenna1B may be disposed on the second lever member134such that the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like is aligned with the direction in which the first lever member133extends. This can improve the overall emission efficiency of the antenna1B when emitting electromagnetic waves.

The antenna1C is disposed spanning from the connection portion134D to the side surface134C of the plate-like portion134A. As described above, the connection portion134D and the side surface134C may be a portion or surface with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver. By disposing the antenna1C spanning from the connection portion134D to the side surface134C, the probability that the antenna1C fails due to the driver touching the antenna1C can be reduced.

The antennas1D,1E are disposed on the side surface134C of the plate-like portion134A. As described above, the side surface134C may be a surface with a relatively low probability of being touched by the driver. As described above, by disposing the antennas1D,1E on the side surface134C, the probability that the antennas1D,1E fail due to the driver touching the antennas1D,1E can be reduced.

The antenna1F may be disposed on the brake lever130with the fourth conductor50facing the clamp portion132as a long portion. The antenna1F may be disposed on the outer surface132A of the ring-shaped clamp portion132. In a case where the antenna1F is disposed on the clamp portion132, the clamp portion132may correspond to the metal component2illustrated inFIG.3orFIG.4. In a case where the antenna1F is not provided with the circuit board70and the housing80illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the fourth conductor50may be disposed on the clamp portion132in direct contact with the clamp portion132, i.e., the metal component2. In a similar manner to the antenna1A, by disposing the antenna1F with the fourth conductor50of the antenna1F facing the clamp portion132, the emission efficiency of the antenna1F can be maintained. The clamp portion132has a low probability of being touched by the driver. By disposing the antenna1F on the clamp portion132, the probability that the antenna1F fails due to the driver touching the antenna1F can be reduced. The antenna1F may be constituted of an FPC. By the antenna1F being constituted of an FPC, the antenna1F can be more easily disposed on the ring-shaped clamp portion132.

The antenna1F may be disposed on the clamp portion132with the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like aligned with the circumferential direction of the ring-shaped clamp portion132. With such a configuration, similar to the antenna1A, the overall emission efficiency of the antenna1F can be improved. In a similar manner to the antenna1A, in a case where the antenna1F does not include the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antenna1F may be disposed such that the third conductor40faces the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. In a similar manner to the antenna1A, in a case where the antenna1F includes the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antenna1F may be disposed such that the emission direction of the secondary emitter82faces the rear derailleur140, i.e., the communication partner. Such a configuration may improve the communication efficiency between the antenna1F and the rear derailleur140.

FIG.7is a diagram illustrating another position of an antenna on the brake lever130illustrated inFIG.5. An antenna1G has an identical configuration to the antenna1illustrated inFIG.1or the antenna1aillustrated inFIG.4in a similar manner to the antennas1A to1F. In other words, the antenna1G includes the first conductor31, the second conductor32, the third conductor40, the fourth conductor50, and the power supply line60.

The antenna1G is disposed on a substrate132B. Similar to the antenna1F, the fourth conductor50of the antenna1G faces the clamp portion132as a long portion. The substrate132B may include an electrically conductive material, or may be formed from a discretionary material such as a resin material. The position of the substrate132B at the clamp portion132may be adjusted as appropriate depending on the communication partner of the antenna1G. The other configurations of the antenna1G are similar to that of the antenna1F illustrated inFIG.6.

Configuration Example of Rear Derailleur

The rear derailleur140includes a pulley portion140A and a fixing portion142. The pulley portion140A includes a body portion141(long portion), a guide pulley143, a tension pulley144, and a connecting member145(long portion).

The body portion141is configured as including an electrically conductive material. The body portion141extends from the fixing portion142toward the guide pulley143. The body portion141includes an end portion141A. The end portion141A includes a rounded portion that depends on the shape of the guide pulley143. The rounded portion of the end portion141A faces an opposite side of the fixing portion142. In other words, the rounded portion of the end portion141A faces the brake lever130illustrated inFIG.5.

The fixing portion142is located at an end portion of the body portion141opposite the end portion141A. The fixing portion142includes a through-hole into which a fastening member such as a bolt can be inserted. The fixing portion142is secured at or near the rear fork end101H of the frame101illustrated inFIG.5by the fastening member.

The guide pulley143and the tension pulley144are located separated from one another. The guide pulley143is located closer to the rear sprocket108illustrated inFIG.1than the tension pulley144. Each of the guide pulley143and the tension pulley144is capable of rotating the chain109of the bicycle100. Each of the guide pulley143and the tension pulley144is configured as including a gear. The chain109illustrated inFIG.1is wound around each of the gear of the guide pulley143and the gear of the tension pulley144.

The connecting member145is configured as including an electrically conductive member. The connecting member145extends from the guide pulley143toward the tension pulley144. The connecting member145connects the guide pulley143and the tension pulley144together. The guide pulley143is located on one end of the connecting member145. The tension pulley144is located on the other end of the connecting member145. The connecting member145includes an outer surface145A. The outer surface145A is an outer surface facing an opposite side of the body portion141, among the outer surfaces of the connecting member145. In other words, the outer surface145A is the outer surface facing the brake lever130illustrated inFIG.5, among the outer surfaces of the connecting member145.

The rear derailleur140according to the present embodiment may include at least one of antennas1H,1J, or1K. By the rear derailleur140being provided with at least one of the antennas1H,1J, or1K, the rear derailleur140can be given a wireless communication function. The rear derailleur140with a wireless communication function may be capable of communicating with the brake lever130with a wireless communication function illustrated inFIG.5. In this case, the antennas1H,1J,1K may be disposed on the rear derailleur140at a section facing the brake lever130, i.e., the communication partner. Also, there is a low probability of the driver touching the rear derailleur140. By disposing the antennas1H,1J,1K on the rear derailleur140, the probability that the antennas1H,1J,1K fail due to the driver touching the antennas1H,1J,1K can be reduced. The antennas1H,1J,1K have an identical configuration to the antenna1illustrated inFIG.1or the antenna1aillustrated inFIG.4. In other words, the antennas1H,1J,1K include the first conductor31, the second conductor32, the third conductor40, the fourth conductor50, and the power supply line60.

The antenna1H may be disposed on the rear derailleur140with the fourth conductor50facing the connecting member145as a long portion. The antenna1H may be located on connecting member145. In a case where the antenna1H is disposed on the connecting member145, the connecting member145may correspond to the metal component2illustrated inFIG.3orFIG.4. In a case where the antenna1H is not provided with the circuit board70and the housing80illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the fourth conductor50may be disposed on the connecting member145in direct contact with the connecting member145, i.e., the metal component2. In a similar manner to the antenna1A, by disposing the antenna1H with the fourth conductor50facing the connecting member145, the connecting member145including the electrically conductive material may be located on the negative Z-axis side as illustrated inFIG.1and the like of the antenna1H. Such a configuration may maintain the emission efficiency of the antenna1H.

The antenna1H may be disposed on the connecting member145such that the X direction illustrated inFIG.1and the like is aligned with the direction in which the connecting member145extends. With such a configuration, similar to the antenna1A, a current can be induced in the connecting member145when the antenna1H emits electromagnetic waves. When the antenna1H emits electromagnetic waves, the overall emission efficiency of the antenna1H can be improved by the connecting member145emitting the current induced in the connecting member145as electromagnetic waves.

The antenna1H may be disposed on the outer surface145A facing the brake lever130, among the outer surfaces of the connecting member145. By disposing the antenna1H on outer surface145A, communication efficiency between the antenna1H and the brake lever130as a communication partner may be improved. In a case where the antenna1H does not include the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antenna1H may be disposed such that the third conductor40faces the brake lever130, i.e., the communication partner. Also, in a case where the antenna1H includes the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antenna1H may be disposed such that the emission direction of the secondary emitter82faces the brake lever130, i.e., the communication partner. In other words, the antenna1H may be disposed such that the positive direction of the Z-axis illustrated inFIGS.3and4is aligned with the direction from the connecting member145toward the brake lever130. By the third conductor40or the secondary emitter82emitting electromagnetic waves facing the brake lever130, communication efficiency between the antenna1H and the brake lever130as a communication partner can be improved.

The antennas1J,1K may be disposed on the rear derailleur140with the fourth conductor50facing the body portion141as a long portion. In a case where each of the antennas1J,1K is disposed on the body portion141, the body portion141may correspond to the metal component2illustrated in FIG.3orFIG.4. In a case where the antennas1J,1K are not provided with the circuit board70and the housing80illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the fourth conductor50may be disposed on the body portion141in direct contact with the body portion141, i.e., the metal component2. In a similar manner to the antenna1H, by disposing the antennas1J,1K with the fourth conductor50facing the body portion141, the emission efficiency of the antennas1J,1K can be maintained.

In a similar manner to the antenna1H, in a case where the antennas1J,1K do not include the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antennas1J,1K may be disposed such that the third conductor40faces the brake lever130, i.e., the communication partner. Also, in a similar manner to the antenna1H, in a case where the antennas1J,1K include the secondary emitter82illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the antennas1J,1K may be disposed such that the emission direction of the secondary emitter82faces the brake lever130, i.e., the communication partner.

The antenna1J may be disposed at the rounded portion of the end portion141A of the body portion141. As described above, the rounded portion of the end portion141A faces the brake lever130illustrated inFIG.5. By disposing antenna1J at the rounded portion of the end portion141A, communication efficiency between the antenna1J and the brake lever130as a communication partner may be improved.

The antenna1K may be disposed on the body portion141via a substrate141B. The substrate141B may include an electrically conductive material, or may be formed from a discretionary material such as a resin material. The position of the substrate141B on the body portion141may be adjusted as appropriate depending on the communication partner of the antenna1K.

Example of Functional Block of Bicycle

FIG.9is a functional block diagram of the bicycle100illustrated inFIG.5. The bicycle100includes the brake lever130and the rear derailleur140. The brake lever130is the right brake lever.

The brake lever130includes a wireless communication module135, a battery136, a detection unit137, a memory138, and a controller139.

The wireless communication module135is configured as including: any one of the antennas1A to1F illustrated inFIG.6or the antenna1G illustrated inFIG.7; a radiation frequency (RF) module; and the like. The RF module may be implemented in the circuit board70illustrated inFIG.3orFIG.4. The wireless communication module135can be configured to be compliant with a discretionary wireless communication standard. The discretionary wireless communication standard includes a near-field communication standard and a long range wireless communication standard. The near-field communication standard may include WiFi (trade name), Bluetooth (trade name), and wireless local area network (LAN). The long range communication standard may include 2G to 5G (Generation), LTE (Long Term Evolution), WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), and a Personal Handy-phone System (PHS).

The wireless communication module135is configured to transmit a transmission signal from the brake lever130to the rear derailleur140on the basis of control by the controller139. For example, the RF module of the wireless communication module135is configured to acquire a transmission signal from the controller139. The RF module of the wireless communication module135is configured to supply electrical power in accordance with the acquired transmission signal to the power supply line60of the resonator10of the wireless communication module135. By supplying electrical power in accordance with the transmission signal to the power supply line60of the resonator10of the wireless communication module135, a transmission signal, i.e., electromagnetic waves, may be transmitted from the brake lever130to the rear derailleur140.

The wireless communication module135is configured to receive electromagnetic waves, as a reception signal, from the rear derailleur140on the basis of control by the controller139. The reception signal received by the wireless communication module135is output to the controller139via the power supply line60of the resonator10.

The battery136may be the battery73illustrated inFIG.3or may be the battery110illustrated inFIG.5. In a case where the battery136is the battery73illustrated inFIG.3, it may be included in the wireless communication module135.

The detection unit137is configured to detect an operation of the driver with respect to the first lever member133and the second lever member134illustrated inFIG.6. Specifically, the detection unit137is configured to detect the amount of movement from a predetermined position for each of the first lever member133and the second lever member134. The detection unit137may include a discretionary sensor, electric circuit, or the like capable of detecting the amount of movement. The detection unit137is configured to output the detection result to the controller139.

The memory138may be constituted of, for example, a semiconductor memory or the like. The memory138may function as a working memory for the controller139. The memory138may be included in the controller139.

The controller139may include a processor, for example. The controller139may include one or more processors. The processor may include a general-purpose processor that reads a specific program in order to execute a specific function, and a dedicated processor dedicated to a specific processing. A dedicated processor may include an application-specific IC. The application-specific IC is also referred to as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). The processor may include a programmable logic device. The programmable logic device is also called a Programmable Logic Device (PLD). The PLD may include a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The controller139may be either a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) or a System In a Package (SiP) that cooperates with one or more processors. The controller139may be configured to store various information and programs for operating each of the components of the brake lever130in the memory138.

The controller139may be configured to generate a transmission signal that is transmitted by the wireless communication module135from the brake lever130to the rear derailleur140. For example, the controller139may be configured to detect information relating to the gear of the rear derailleur140on the basis of the detection result of the detection unit137. The information relating to the gear of the rear derailleur140can include information such as how many gears to go up in the rear derailleur140or how many gears to go down in the rear derailleur140. The controller139may be configured to generate a transmission signal in accordance with the information relating to the detected gear of the rear derailleur140. The controller139is configured to output the generated transmission signal to the wireless communication module135.

The controller139may be configured to receive electromagnetic waves, i.e., a reception signal, from the rear derailleur140via the wireless communication module135.

The rear derailleur140includes a wireless communication module146, a battery147, a drive unit148, a memory149, and a controller150.

The wireless communication module146is configured as including: any one of the antennas1H,1J,1K illustrated inFIG.8; an RF module; and the like. The wireless communication module146, similar to the wireless communication module135, may be configured to be compliant with a discretionary wireless communication standard. The discretionary wireless communication standard may include a near-field communication standard and a long range wireless communication standard as described above for the wireless communication module135.

The wireless communication module146is configured to transmit a transmission signal from the rear derailleur140to the brake lever130on the basis of control by the controller150. For example, the RF module of the wireless communication module146is configured to acquire a transmission signal from the controller150. The RF module of the wireless communication module146is configured to supply electrical power in accordance with the acquired transmission signal to the power supply line60of the resonator10of the wireless communication module146. By supplying electrical power in accordance with the transmission signal to the power supply line60of the resonator10of the wireless communication module146, a transmission signal, i.e., electromagnetic waves, may be transmitted from the rear derailleur140to the brake lever130.

The wireless communication module146is configured to receive electromagnetic waves, as a reception signal, from the brake lever130on the basis of control by the controller150. The reception signal received by the wireless communication module146is output to the controller150via the power supply line60of the resonator10.

The battery147may be the battery73illustrated inFIG.3or may be the battery110illustrated inFIG.5. In a case where the battery147is the battery73illustrated inFIG.3, it may be included in the wireless communication module146.

The drive unit148is configured as including an actuator such as an electric motor. The drive unit148moves the chain109between the plurality of sprockets included in the rear sprocket108on the basis of control by the controller150.

The memory149may be constituted of, for example, a semiconductor memory or the like. The memory149may function as a working memory for the controller150. The memory149may be included in the controller150.

The controller150may include a processor, for example. The controller150may include one or more processors. The processor may include a general-purpose processor that reads a specific program in order to execute a specific function, and a dedicated processor dedicated to a specific processing. A dedicated processor may include an application-specific IC. The processor may include a programmable logic device. The PLD may include an FPGA. The controller150may be either a SoC or a SiP that cooperates with one or more processors. The controller150may be configured to store various information and programs for operating each of the components of the rear derailleur140in the memory149.

The controller150may be configured to receive electromagnetic waves, i.e., a reception signal, from the brake lever130via the wireless communication module146. The reception signal may include information relating to the gear of the rear derailleur140. The controller150may drive the drive unit148on the basis of information relating to the gear of the rear derailleur140. In other words, the controller150may move the chain109between the plurality of sprockets included in the rear sprocket108on the basis of information relating to the gear of the rear derailleur140.

The controller150may be configured to generate a transmission signal that is transmitted by the wireless communication module146from the rear derailleur140to the brake lever130.

In this manner, in the brake lever130, the antennas1A to1F are disposed so that the fourth conductor50faces the first lever member133or the clamp portion132including the electrically conductive material, thereby maintaining the emission efficiency of the antennas1A to1F. In addition, in the rear derailleur140, the antennas1G,1H,1J are disposed so that the fourth conductor50faces the body portion141or the connecting member145including the electrically conductive material, thereby maintaining the emission efficiency of the antennas1G,1H,1J. With such a configuration, the brake lever130and the rear derailleur140can be configured to wirelessly communicate with each other. By the brake lever130and the rear derailleur140being configured to wirelessly communicate with each other, the amount/number of wires such as cables attached to the bicycle100can be reduced. By reducing the amount/number of wires attached to the bicycle100, the weight of the bicycle100can be reduced. The weight reduction of the bicycle100may improve the user-friendliness of the bicycle100. Thus, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a novel brake lever may be provided.

The configurations according to the present disclosure are not limited only to the embodiments described above, and some variations or changes can be made. For example, the functions and the like included in each of the components and the like can be repositioned as long as inconsistencies are logically avoided, and it is possible to combine into one or divide a plurality of components or the like.

For example, in the above-described embodiment, it has been described that the communication partner of the brake lever130is the rear derailleur140. Also, it has been described that the communication partner of the rear derailleur140is the brake lever130. However, the communication partner of the brake lever130is not limited to being the rear derailleur140. Also, the communication partner of the rear derailleur140is not limited to being the brake lever130. The communication partner of the brake lever130and the rear derailleur140may include a component external device of the bicycle100or the like. For example, the component of the bicycle100corresponding to the communication partner of the brake lever130and the rear derailleur140may include the front derailleur120, a multi-function display, or the like. For example, the external device corresponding to the communication partner of the brake lever130and the rear derailleur140may include a smartphone of the driver, a server device, or the like.

In the above-described embodiment, the brake lever130is configured to detect the operation of a driver with respect to the rear derailleur140.

Specifically, in the specifications of the first lever member133, the rear derailleur140is configured to shift down a gear when the first lever member133is moved in the direction B. Also, in the specifications of the second lever member134, the rear derailleur140is configured to shift up a gear when the second lever member134is moved in the direction B. However, the brake lever130may be configured to detect the operation of the driver with respect to a discretionary component of the bicycle100. For example, the second lever member134may be configured to be able to detect the operation of the driver with respect to a discretionary component.

The drawings for describing the configuration according to the present disclosure are schematic. The dimensional proportions and the like in the drawings do not necessarily coincide with the actual values.

In the present disclosure, description of “first”, “second”, “third”, and the like is an example of an identifier for distinguishing the configurations. Configurations distinguished in the description by “first”, “second”, and the like in the present disclosure are interchangeable in terms of the number of the configuration. For example, the identifiers, “first” and “second”, for the first conductor against the second conductor can be interchanged. The identifiers are interchanged simultaneously. The configurations are distinguished after the identifiers are interchanged. The identifiers may be deleted. Configurations with deleted identifiers are distinguished by reference signs. No interpretation on the order of the configurations, no grounds for the presence of an identifier of a lower value, and no grounds for the presence of an identifier of a higher value shall be given based solely on the description of identifiers such as “first” and “second” in the present disclosure.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST