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Title:
BICYCLE INCLUDING A FRAME AND AN AUXILIARY MOTOR
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2018/016949
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
Bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, the frame being provided with a battery structure and a motor controller, wherein the battery structure is removably connected to the frame, wherein the motor controller is integrated in the removable battery structure. Also, there is provided a kit of parts including the battery and the respective battery holder for a bicycle according to the invention, wherein the battery is removably held by the battery holder, the battery holder including a motor controller configured for controlling a bicycle auxiliary motor. Further, there is provided a bicycle frame.

Inventors:
ROOS IVO HENDRI (NL)
Application Number:
PCT/NL2017/050483
Publication Date:
January 25, 2018
Filing Date:
July 18, 2017
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
ACCELL GROUP N V (NL)
International Classes:
B62M6/90
Foreign References:
US5798702A1998-08-25
CN203681825U2014-07-02
US20150158551A12015-06-11
JPH04358986A1992-12-11
CN202624562U2012-12-26
KR101055637B12011-08-09
CN102120480A2011-07-13
US5798702A1998-08-25
US20150158551A12015-06-11
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
JANSEN, C.M. (NL)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. Bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, the frame being provided with a battery structure and a motor controller, wherein the battery structure is removably connected to the frame, wherein the motor controller is covered by the removable battery structure.

2. A bicycle according to claim 1, wherein the removable battery structure includes a battery and a battery holder that removably holds the battery, wherein the battery holder is detachably connected to the frame.

3. A bicycle according to claim 2, wherein the battery holder is configured for allowing removal of the battery along a virtual plane that extends in parallel with respect to a bottom bracket axis of the bicycle, when the battery holder is connected to the frame.

4. A bicycle according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the battery holder is fixed to the bicycle frame using detachable connecting means, for example screw or bolting means.

5. A bicycle according to claim 4, wherein the detachable connecting means are covered by the battery after assembly.

6. A bicycle according to any of claims 2-5, wherein the detachable battery holder includes a top section and an opposite bottom section for removably holding the battery there-between, wherein the battery and battery holder are preferably configured to allow removal of the battery by rotational battery movement only, for example rotation about the bottom section of the battery holder.

7. A bicycle according to claim 6, wherein the bottom section of the detachably battery holder covers, e.g. includes, the motor controller.

8. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell for receiving part of the battery structure.

9. A bicycle according to claim 8, wherein the intermediate frame section includes a rear base section that is attached to the bottom bracket shell, an upwardly extending spacer section and a head section that is attached to a lower end of the seat tube, the head section particularly extending in a direction that includes an angle in the range of about 100-170 degrees with a center line of the spacer section.

10. A bicycle according to claim 8 or 9 in combination with claim 6 or 7, wherein the bottom section of the detachable battery holder is located in the gap below the seat tube.

11. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame includes a down tube having an upper section and a lower section, center lines of the upper and lower section extending at an angle with respect to each other, wherein the battery structure is mounted on the lower section of the down tube, wherein a top wall of the battery structure that is faced away from the lower section of the down tube extends substantially in line with the upper section of the down tube.

12. A bicycle according any of the preceding claims, wherein the removable battery structure includes an elongated mounting structure, wherein the frame includes an elongated mounting space for receiving the elongated mounting structure.

13. A bicycle according to claim 12, wherein the elongated mounting structure includes a rigid mounting element, preferably having a number of bores for receiving bicycle frame connection means, the rigid mounting element preferably being configured for strengthening the frame after mounting.

14. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the removable battery holder includes a locking device for locking the battery to the holder.

15. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the battery structure and bicycle frame include disconnectable control signal terminals, for passing electric power and/or signals between the motor controller and one or more other components of the bicycle.

16. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the motor is a hub motor.

17. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the auxiliary motor is part of a rear wheel or a front wheel of the bicycle.

18. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle has a down tube (2b) having an upper section (2bU) and a lower section (2bL), wherein straight center lines of the upper section (2bU) and the lower section (2bL) include an angle (a) larger than 0 degrees with respect to each other seen in side view, wherein the battery structure (S) is mounted on the lower section (2bL) of the down tube (2b).

19. A bicycle according to claim 18, wherein the angle (a) is in the range of about 10-30 degrees, more particularly an angle (a) in the range of about 10-20 degrees.

20. A bicycle according to claim 18 or 19, wherein a top wall (T) of the battery structure (S) that is faced away from the lower section (2bL) of the down tube (2b), extends substantially in line with an upper side of the upper section (2bU) of the down tube (2b), after mounting on the down tube.

21. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims 18-20, wherein a front part of the battery structure (S) has a triangular shape, with a top angle that is identical to the mentioned angle (a) between the center lines of the two down tube sections (2bU, 2bL).

22. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims 18-21, wherein a back part of the battery structure (S) has a rear edge (32) and bottom edge (31) that include a larger second angle (6) with one another compared to said top angle (a).

23. A bicycle according to claim 22, wherein the second angle is an angle 6 larger than 40 degrees, for example an angle in the range of about 70-110 degrees, or for example an angle 6 of about 90 degrees.

24. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell for receiving part of the battery structure, wherein the intermediate frame section includes a rear base section that is attached to the bottom bracket shell, an upwardly extending spacer section and a head section that is attached to a lower end of the seat tube, wherein a lower side of the head section (2k) of the intermediate frame section (2h) extends in-parallel with an opposite lower section (2bL) of a down tube (2b) of the bicycle.

25. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell for receiving part of the battery structure, wherein the intermediate frame section includes a rear base section that is attached to the bottom bracket shell, an upwardly extending spacer section and a head section that is attached to a lower end of the seat tube, wherein an upper side of the head section (2k), that e.g. carries a lower end of the seat tube (2a), extends substantially in line with a top side of an upper section (2U) of a down tube (2b) of the bicycle.

26. A bicycle according to claims 24 and 25, wherein the upper side of the head section (2k) and the lower side of the head section (2k) include a top angle larger than 0 degrees, for example an angle in the range of about 10-30 degrees, more particularly an angle in the range of about 10-20 degrees.

27. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell for receiving part of the battery structure, wherein the intermediate frame section includes a rear base section that is attached to the bottom bracket shell, an upwardly extending spacer section and a head section that is attached to a lower end of the seat tube, wherein the intermediate frame section has an U-shaped cross-section.

28. A bicycle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the battery structure (S) has a substantially tapered shape, viewed in side view. 29. A bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, for example a bicycle according to any of the claims 1-28, wherein the frame is provided with a battery structure, wherein the battery structure is preferably removably connected to the frame,

wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell for receiving part of the battery structure.

30. A bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, for example a bicycle according to any of the preceding claims,

wherein the frame is provided with a battery structure,

wherein the battery structure includes a battery and a battery holder that removably holds the battery,

wherein the battery holder is configured for allowing removal of the battery along a virtual plane that extends in parallel with respect to a bottom bracket axis of the bicycle, when the battery holder is connected to the frame.

31. Bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, for example a bicycle according to any of the preceding claims,

the frame being provided with a battery structure and a motor controller, wherein the battery structure is removably connected to the frame, wherein the motor controller is part of the removable battery structure.

32. A kit of parts including a battery and a respective battery holder for forming a battery structure of a bicycle according to at least any of the claims 2-7, wherein the battery is removably held by the battery holder, the battery holder preferably including a motor controller configured for controlling a bicycle auxiliary motor.

33. A bicycle frame, for example a frame for assembly of a bicycle according to any of the claims 1-31,

wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell,

particularly a gap for receiving another bicycle component, for example a part of a battery structure and/or a motor controller.

34. A bicycle frame according to claim 33, wherein the intermediate frame section includes a rear base section that is attached to the bottom bracket shell, an upwardly extending spacer section and a head section that is attached to a lower end of the seat tube.

35. A bicycle according to claim 34, wherein a lower side of the head section (2k) of the intermediate frame section (2h) extends in-parallel with an opposite lower section (2bL) of a down tube (2b) of the bicycle.

36. A bicycle frame according claim 34 or 35, wherein an upper side of the head section (2k), that e.g. carries a lower end of the seat tube (2a), extends substantially in line with a top side of an upper section (2U) of a down tube (2b) of the bicycle.

37. A bicycle frame according to claims 35 and 36, wherein the upper- side of the head section (2k) and the lower side of the head section (2k) include a top angle larger than 0 degrees, for example an angle in the range of about 10-30 degrees, more particularly an angle in the range of about 10- 20 degrees.

38. A bicycle frame according to any of the preceding claims 34-37, wherein the intermediate frame section has an U-shaped cross-section.

39. A bicycle frame according to any of claims 33-38, wherein the frame has a down tube (2b) having an upper section (2bU) and a lower section (2bL), wherein straight center lines of the upper section (2bU) and the lower section (2bL) include an angle (a) larger than 0 degrees with respect to each other seen in side view, for example an angle (a) in the range of about 10-30 degrees, more particularly an angle (a) in the range of about 10-20 degrees.

Description:
Title: Bicycle including a frame and an auxiliary motor

The present invention relates to a bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxihary motor, the frame being provided with a battery structure and a motor controller.

The invention further provides a kit of parts, as well as a bicycle frame.

Said bicycle is commonly known (also known as 'ebike'). The know bicycle includes common bicycle operating parts that are to be driven by the rider using pedaling force, the rider's power usually being transmitted to a bicycle rear wheel via a bicycle drive train such as a chain or shaft or the- like. Also, the bicycle is fitted with an auxihary motor for assisting the rider, the auxiliary motor usually being powered -or powerable- only in case the rider exerts driving force him/herself. The auxihary motor can be e.g. a motor that is part of a rear wheel or front wheel of the bicycle, for example a hub motor.

Examples of known eBikes are disclosed for example in US5,798,702 and US2015/0158551. Such eBikes have relatively bulky configurations and corresponding relatively high centers of gravity.

The motor controller is configured for controlling the auxiliary motor, for example based on input from one or more ride monitoring sensors that can be fitted for detecting rider action or other bicycle ride related

parameters (such as a sensor or sensor system that is configured to detect rider induced drive train force, torque, movement and/or power, and or bicycle speed or wheel speed).

The battery structure usually includes a high capacity battery storing electrical power, for example of the lithium-ion type, capable of delivering DC up to e.g. several tens of Volts. Bicycle types having fully integrated battery structures are known. Also, it is know to fit a detachable battery pack to the bicycle, so that it can be removed after use e.g. for safe storage or remote charging.

It is known to position the motor controller in a safe location, out of sight, within the bicycle frame, thereby avoiding damage and resulting failure to any relatively fragile parts thereof. Under certain circumstances it may be desired to gain access to the motor controller, for example for maintenance, firmware updating or even replacement. That usually requires disassembly of part of the bicycle, which may be a cumbersome and time-consuming task.

The present invention aims to improve the bicycle. In particular, the invention aims to provide a bicycle that has improved serviceability. Also, an aspect of the invention aims at providing an improved bicycle having a sleek design, and improved user experience.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a bicycle that is defined by the features of claim 1.

It is preferred that the battery structure is removably connected to the frame, wherein the motor controller is covered by the removable battery structure.

In this way, motor controller access can be significantly improved. In particular, under normal bicycle operating conditions, a bicycle user can let the battery structure power the motor of the auxiliary bicycle, under/via the control of the respective motor controller. On the other hand, access to the motor controller can be achieved simply, by removing the (entire) battery structure that covered the controller. Subsequently, the motor controller can be accessed, for example for maintenance, updating or replacement operations. In a further embodiment the removable battery structure includes the motor controller.

Herein, it is preferred that the removing of the battery structure (and optionally the motor controller if it is integrated with the battery structure) from the bicycle frame can be carried out manually by a single person, and does not have to include laborious bicycle disassembly operations such as the removing of a bicycle wheel or the dismantling of (or even cutting of) the bicycle frame.

The motor controller as such can be configured in various ways as will be clear to the skilled person. It can include suitable electronic hardware (and software in case of a digital motor controller) for carrying out motor controlling functionality. Particularly, the motor controller can include a number of electric connections or terminals, for receiving battery power and for transmitting electric power to the auxiliary motor. Also, the skilled person will appreciate that the motor controller can include a number of communication inputs (and outputs), for example for receiving user control signals from a user interface (for example a user control unit that is placed at or near a rider position such as on or near a bicycle handle bar of the bicycle) and for receiving sensor signals from one or more ride monitoring sensors (sensor examples are mentioned above).

It should be observed that in this application, the term 'battery structure' is to be interpreted broadly. In particular, it can be a structure or system that includes one or more electrically chargeable battery cells, wherein the bicycle is configured such that the respective electric battery power can at least be fed to the auxiliary motor during cycling and

operation, and after the mounting of the battery structure in a respective mounting position in/of the bicycle.

In a further embodiment the battery structure and bicycle frame include disconnectable control signal terminals, for passing electric power and/or signals between the motor controller and other components of the bicycle such as the auxihary motor, a user interface (if any) and one or more sensors (if any). Such electrical terminals may be disconnected when the battery structure is removed from the frame, and e.g. reconnected in case the battery structure is replaced to the frame. In a further elaboration, the removable battery structure includes a battery (e.g. a dedicated battery pack having a number of electrically chargable cells) and a battery holder that removably holds the battery, wherein the battery holder is detachably connected to the frame.

In this way, enhanced battery frame integration can be achieved. In particular, the battery holder can serve has a docking structure/station for removably docking the battery onto the frame. Moreover, in an embodiment, the battery structure as such may be configured to strengthen the bicycle frame after mounting, and/or to increase bicycle frame stiffness.

It is preferred that the motor controller is not part of the battery itself

(but positioned remote from the battery), e.g. to or suppress or prevent any motor controller heat reaching the battery during operation. The battery can preferably be removed from the frame to be remotely charged and or stored, without removing the remaining battery structure part (i.e. holder/dock).

In an embodiment, the detachable battery holder can serve to be a cover or housing part of the motor controller. In case access to the motor controller is desired, the (further or alternative) step of detaching the battery holder from the bicycle frame can then be taken.

It is also preferred, that the motor controller remains covered by the battery holder (i.e. out of sight, when viewed from an environment of the bicycle) in case the battery holder is in its connected position to the bicycle frame. For example, the battery holder and the bicycle frame can be formed the conceal the motor controller there-between, when the battery holder is held in mounting position in/on the bicycle frame.

Preferably, the battery holder is configured for allowing removal of the battery along a virtual plane that extends in parallel with respect to a bottom bracket axis of the bicycle, when the battery holder is connected to the frame.

In this way, a user can hold the frame firmly and stably during the removal of the battery, for example at a down tube or top tube (if any), in order to smoothly take the battery out of the respective holder. Replacing the battery can be achieved in the same way, for example by reversed battery movement with respect to the holder, the movement being along the same virtual plane.

According to a preferred embodiment, the battery holder is fixed to the bicycle frame using detachable connecting means, for example screw or bolting means.

In this way, a simple yet reliable holder fixation can be achieved. For example, the bicycle frame may include a number of threaded bores for firmly receiving such detachable connection means.

It is highly advantageous in case the detachable connecting means are covered by the battery after assembly.

Thus, a smooth design can be achieved, and besides, the battery as such can function to prevent unauthorized access to the detachable connecting means. This particularly holds in case there is provided a locking device (e.g. including a cylinder lock that is to be operated by a respective key) for locking the battery to its holder.

Further, an aspect of the invention provides a kit of parts including a battery and a respective battery holder for forming a battery structure of a bicycle according to any of the claims 2-7, wherein the battery is removably held by the battery holder, the battery holder preferably including a motor controller configured for controlling a bicycle auxiliary motor.

Also, an aspect of the invention provides a bicycle frame,

wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell,

particularly a gap for receiving another bicycle component, for example a part of a battery structure and/or a motor controller. In this way various of the above-mentioned advantages can be achieved.

Further advantageous are described in the dependent claims. The invention will now be explained in more detail, referring to the drawings that show a non -limiting example of the invention.

Figure 1 depicts a side view of a bicycle according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 depicts a side view of the frame of the bicycle shown in Fig. 1, with a displaced battery structure;

Figure 3 depicts a perspective view of the bicycle shown in Fig. 2;

Figure 4 depicts a side view of the bicycle frame of the bicycle depicted in Figures 1-3;

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the frame;

Figure 6 shows a side view of an embodiment of the battery structure as such, of the bicycle depicted in Figures 1-3;

Figure 7 is a bottom view of the battery structure of Fig. 6;

Figure 8 is a top view of the battery structure of Fig. 6;

Figure 9 is a side view of the battery holder of the battery structure embodiment of Figure 6;

Figure 10 is a top view of the battery holder shown in Fig. 9;

Figure 11 is a bottom view of the battery holder shown in Fig. 9; and

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the battery holder shown in Fig. 9.

In the present application, corresponding or similar features are denoted by corresponding or similar reference signs.

Figures 1-12 show an non-limiting example of a bicycle 1, including a frame 2 as well as an auxiliary motor M, the frame being provided with a battery structure S and a motor controller C (partly visible in Fig. 2, 3, 6, 8).

The motor controller C as such can be configured in various ways, as has been explained above. The bicycle frame includes a seat tube 2a, a down tube 2b, a bottom bracket shell 2c for receiving a bottom bracket, and head tube 2e. The present embodiment also includes an optional top tube 2d, extending between an upper part of the seat tube 2a and the head tube 2e. In this example, the auxiliary motor M is associated with a bicycle rear wheel (e.g. it can be a respective hub motor). Alternatively, the motor may be for example associated with a front wheel.

The present down tube 2b has an upper section 2bU and a lower section 2bL, straight center lines of the upper section 2bU and lower section 2bL including an angle a larger than 0 degrees with respect to each other (see the side view of Figure 4), for example an angle a in the range of about 10-30 degrees, more particularly an angle a in the range of about 10-20 degrees. In this example, the lower section of the down tube 2b extends substantially in parallel with frame seat stays 2f, seen in side view (see Fig. 4). Also, the center line of the upper down tube section 2bU includes a smaller angle with a center line of the optional top tub 2d (or with a virtual horizontal plane) than an angle that is enclosed between the center line of the lower down tube section 2bL and the center line of that top tub 2d (or with the virtual horizontal plane).

The frame is sturdy and has an elegant, speedy design. Also, the down tube design allows for a relatively low, stable positioning of a relatively large (e.g. large electrical capacity) battery structure S.

In the present example, the battery structure S is mounted on the lower section 2bL of the down tube 2b. It is preferred that a top wall T of the battery structure S that is faced away from the lower section 2bL of the down tube 2b extends substantially in line with an upper side of the upper section 2bU of the down tube 2b, after mounting on the down tube (see Figure 1). For example, the battery structure S may have a substantially tapered shape, viewed in side view (see Fig. 6). In the present embodiment, a front part of the battery structure S (particularly including structure 4M and front holder part 4T as well as the battery, in this example) has a triangular shape, with a top angle that is identical to the above-mentioned angle a between the center lines of the two down tube sections 2bU, 2bL.

A back part of the present battery structure S (particularly of a respective battery holder 4 in this example) has a rear edge 32 and bottom edge 31 that include a larger second angle 6 with one another compared to said top angle (a), see Fig. 6, for example an angle 6 larger than 40 degrees, e.g. an angle in the range of about 70-110 degrees, or e.g. an angle 6 of about 90 degrees as in the drawings.

Referring to Figure 6, for example, a bottom edge 31 of the battery structure S (the holder 4, in this example) may extend in a substantially horizontal direction, and the rear edge 32 of the of the battery structure S (the holder 4, in this example) may extend in a substantially vertical direction.

Such features allow for efficient and stable positioning of the battery structure S onto the frame during mounting (and particular of the battery holder 4).

As follows from Figure 1, the battery structure and bicycle frame can be adapted such that they provide an optically integrated appearance. Also, the battery structure can be located at a relatively low level, providing rider comfort.

It is preferred that the entire battery structure S is removably connected to the frame. Figures 2-3 show the battery structure S in a partly removed position, whereas Figures 6-8 show the structure by itself, with -in this case- an integrated motor controller C.

It is preferred that the motor controller C is covered by the battery structure S, after the battery structure S has been mounted into mounting position onto the bicycle frame. In one embodiment (not shown), the motor controller C may be mounted or fixed to the frame at a battery structure receiving location (e.g. onto the bottom bracket shell 2c and/or onto an intermediate frame section 2h -if any-), wherein assembly of the battery structure S to the frame 2 leads to the covering of the motor controller C.

In the present example, however, the motor controller C has been advantageously integrated with and in the removable battery structure S. Thus, the battery structure S not only covers the motor controller C (when viewed from an environment of the bicycle and after mounting/assembly), it also provides removability to the motor controller C. As a result, improved motor controller access can be achieved.

In the example, walls of a battery holder bottom section 4L surround a relatively large interior space, which -in this example- substantially accommodates or covers the motor controller C after mounting. As follows from e.g. Fig. 2, part of the motor controller C may protrude from a space that is enclosed between side walls of the battery holder bottom section 4L, particularly to reach into an adjoining space that is covered by a frame member (e.g. by the intermediate frame section 2h) after mounting.

The removable battery structure S as such has a particular

advantageous configuration, in that the removable battery structure S includes a battery 3 and a battery holder 4. The battery 3 as such is configured for storing electric energy and is (most preferably) rechargeable.

The battery holder 4 is configured to removably hold the battery 3. Also, the battery holder 4 as such is detachably connected to the frame 2. An assembled state of battery 3 and battery holder 4 is shown in Figures 6-8, whereas Figures 9-12 show the battery holder 4 after the battery 3 has been removed therefrom.

Also, as in the present embodiment, the removable battery holder 4 can include a locking device 9 for locking the battery 3 to the holder 4. The locking device 9 as such can be configured in various ways, for example, it can include a cyhnder lock that is integrated in the holder 4, the lock being manually operable by a key, wherein operation of the lock can move a battery locking element 9a between a battery locking and battery releasing state. The battery 4 may e.g. include a engagement section, to be engaged by such a battery locking element 9a. In this example, the lock 9 is part of a top section 4T of the battery holder 4.

The present battery holder 4 is configured for allowing removal of the battery 3 along a virtual plane that extends in parallel with respect to a bottom bracket axis X of the bicycle, when the battery holder is connected to the frame. A respective battery removal path, which is curved in this embodiment, is schematically indicated in Figure 8 with arrow R. In this case, it involves rotating the battery away from a chain wheel 45 (see Fig. 1).

The battery holder 4 can be fixed to the bicycle frame 2 using detachable connecting means (not shown), for example mounting screws or bolts having outer screw thread. To that aim, a top wall 5 of the lower down tube section 2bL may include several (e.g. two or three) bores or apertures 8 having inner screw thread (see Fig. 5), wherein a mounting part 4M of the battery holder may include openings 18, aligned with said threaded bores/apertures 8 when the mounting part 4M is in its mounting position onto the lower down tube section 2bL for receiving the detachable

connecting means. The detachable connecting means are covered by the battery 3 after assembly (see Figure 1), thus the installed battery 3 prevents access to those connecting means, thereby preventing unauthorized removal of the battery holder 4.

In an embodiment having a detachable motor controller C integrated with the battery structure S, the battery structure S and bicycle frame 2 may include disconnectable power and control signal terminals (not shown), for passing power and/or signals between the motor controller C and other components of the bicycle, e.g. the motor M, one or more ride monitoring sensors (not shown) and user interface UI, as will be clear to the skilled person. For example, the terminals may be such that during placement of the battery holder 4, such power and control signal terminals may

automatically engage one another for transmission of power and signals; in case of removal of the battery holder 4 from the bicycle frame, these terminals automatically disengage. Alternatively, for example said disconnectable power and control signal terminals may include one or more wired plug-sockets connections that can be manually engaged and

disengaged by a user during assembly and disassembly.

Referring to the drawings, in the present embodiment, the detachable battery holder 4 includes a top section 4T and an opposite bottom section 4L for removably holding the battery 3 there-between. The top section 4T and bottom section 4L are both mounted onto a mounting structure 4M.

In this example, the battery 3 and battery holder 4 are configured to allow removal of the battery 3 by rotational battery movement (see Fig. 8), for example rotation about the bottom section 4L of the battery holder. A transversal wall 20 of the bottom section 4L of the battery holder, which faces an opposite transversal wall of the battery after assembly, may e.g. include a pivot guiding structure 21 (such as a protruding notch) configured to cooperate with a matching pivot guiding structure (such as a matching aperture or indent) ) of the opposite transversal wall of the battery 3 to guide and properly position the battery 3 into the holder 4 during mounting. Also, the holder top section 4T may include a curved guiding structure 40 for sliding engagement with a top of the battery 3 during battery mounting to the holder 4 and removal from the holder 4. In the present example, the curved guiding structure 40 is asymmetrically placed, with a lateral first edge 40a being located slightly further away from the opposite holder bottom section 4L than a lateral second edge 40b (see Fig. 11). It follows that the battery 3 can only be placed/rotated into the holder 4 via one lateral holder side. Further, the holder 4 and battery 3 may include respective

disconnectable terminals, for passing power and/or signals between the battery and other components of the bicycle, particularly the motor controller C when the battery 3 is in its mounted position (see Fig. 6). The battery terminals 10 of the holder 4 are visible in Figures 9, 10. In the present example, these terminals 1- are configured to automatically engage respective terminals of the battery 3 when the battery 3 is placed into its mounting position in the holder 4 (as in Figures 6-8), and to automatically disengage when the battery 3 is being removed from the holder 4.

According to an elaboration, the removable battery structure can include an elongated mounting structure 4M, as in the present example. In the example, the top and bottom sections of the battery holder 4 are fixed onto an upper side of the elongated mounting structure 4M. In this example, the holder top section 4T protrudes forwardly from the elongated mounting structure 4M, and also protrudes in two lateral directions (see Fig. 9 and Fig. 11). Similarly, in this example, the opposite bottom top section 4L protrudes (slightly) rearwards from the elongated mounting structure 4M, and also protrudes in two lateral directions (see Fig. 9 and Fig. 11). In this example, the lateral widths of both the top section 4T and bottom section 4L of the battery holder 4 are equal to the width of the bicycle frame downtube 2b, whereas the lateral width of the respective elongated mounting structure 4M is smaller, to be embedded within the bicycle frame downtube 2b.

For receiving (embedding) the elongated mounting structure 4M , the present bicycle frame 2 (particularly the lower section of the down tube 2b) include an elongated mounting space, defined along the top wall 5 and between upstanding side ridges 6 of the lower down tube section 2bL. The elongated mounting space may have the same length as the elongated mounting structure 4M to be received, or it may be longer. The elongated mounting structure 4M may be a rigid mounting element, preferably having a number of the bores 8 for receiving bicycle frame connection means. Optionally, the rigid mounting element 4M can be being configured for strengthening the bicycle frame after mounting. To that aim, the rigid mounting element 4M may be held e.g. in a substantially form-closed manner within the respective receiving opening of the frame 2. Also, the rigid mounting element 4M may be made of e.g. steel or aluminum, or another study material. Also or alternatively, the rigid mounting element 4M may be fixed with a relatively high mounting force to the lower section of the down tube, via respective connecting means.

In this example, a thickness Ql of the upper section 2bU of the down tube 2b is larger than a thickness Q2 of the lower section 2bL of the down tube 2b, measured in a direction that is normal to a respective lateral width. Respective tube section thicknesses are indicated with double arrows Ql, Q2 in Figure 4. Figures 4, 5 also show that the upper side of the upper down tube section 2bU includes a flat supporting surface area 7 that extends along a virtual plane that is in line with upper edges of the of lower down tube section 2bL, for supporting a flat bottom surface 17 of the front holder part 4T after mounting.

A further advantageous aspect of the present embodiment concerns the positioning of part of the battery structure below the seat tube 2a (and along the chain wheel 45). In particular, in this example, the seat tube does not terminate on the bottom bracket shell 2c (as in a conventional bicycle). To the contrary, in the present structure, an intermediate frame section 2h is provided, linking a lower end of the seat tube 2a to the bottom bracket shell 2c. The intermediate frame section 2h is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube 2a and bottom bracket shell 2c for receiving a lower- part 4L of the battery structure. In particular, after assembly of the entire structure, the motor controller C may be partly or substantially located in this gap below the seat tube 2a. To provide sufficient strength and rigidity, the intermediate frame section 2h may have an U-shaped cross-section, and can particularly include a rear base section 2i that is attached to the bottom bracket shell 2a (as well as to the chain stays 2g), an upwardly extending spacer section 2j and a head section 2k that is attached to a lower end of the seat tube 2a. For example, in a side view (see Fig. 4), a center line of the head section 2k may particularly extend in a direction that includes an angle in the range of about 100-170 degrees with a center line of the spacer section 2j.

In the present example, a lower side of the head section 2k of the intermediate frame section 2h extends in parallel with an opposite (lower) section 2bL of the down tube, as follows from the drawings. An opposite upper side of the head section 2k, that e.g. carries (i.e. is fixed to) a lower end seat tube 2a may e.g. extend in a different direction than the a lower side of the head section 2k. In the present example, said upper side of the head section 2k extends substantially in line with the top side of the upper section 2U of the down tube 2b (and substantially in line with a top side T of the battery structure S after mounting, see Fig. 1). It follows that the upper side of the head section 2k and the lower side of the head section 2k can include the same top angle a as the afore-mentioned top angle a between the present upper section 2bU and a lower section 2bL of the down tube, in particular an angle a larger than 0 degrees, for example an angle a in the range of about 10-30 degrees, more particularly an angle a in the range of about 10-20 degrees.

As follows from Figures 1-3, after mounting, a lower part of the battery structure S (in this case the bottom section 4L of the battery holder) extends into the space between the intermediate frame section 2h, bottom bracket shell 2c and downtube 2b after mounting, and contacts opposite edges/sides of these frame parts . According to a further embodiment, the lower part of the battery structure S can be at least partly made of a rigid material, for example steel or a rigid aluminum, to locally stiffen the frame after mounting.

Further, as is indicated with an arrow W in Figure 2, the

configuration can be such, that placement of the battery structure S (or at least its battery holder 4) can involve sliding the structure (or holder 4) in a linear direction W along the lower down tube section 2bL towards the bottom bracket shell 2c. In that case, particularly, the elongated mounting space in the down tube is sufficiently longer the length of the as the elongated mounting structure 4M, allowing sufficient linear maneuvering space to slide the lower part 4L of the battery structure S in the gap between the seat tube 2a and bottom bracket shell 2c. As follows from

Figure 1, after mounting, outer sides of the battery structure S can snuggingly fit within and onto the bicycle frame.

It will be clear to the skilled person that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described. Various modifications are possible within the framework of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

For example, according other aspect of the invention, it is not essential that the battery structure is removably connected to the frame, nor that the motor controller is integrated in the removable battery structure.

Particularly, according to one aspect there is provided

bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, wherein the frame is provided with a battery structure, wherein the battery structure is optionally removably connected to the frame,

wherein the frame includes a seat tube, a bottom bracket shell and an intermediate frame section linking a lower end of the seat tube to the bottom bracket shell, wherein the intermediate frame section is configured to provide a gap between the seat tube and bottom bracket shell for receiving part of the battery structure.

In this way a relatively low bicycle center of gravity can be achieved, thereby improving bicycle performance and comfort to the user. Also, in this manner, the bicycle can provide relatively much space for battery mounting, e.g. for receiving a relatively large battery structure.

In yet another aspect of this invention there is provided a bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, wherein the frame is provided with a battery structure, wherein the battery structure includes a battery and a battery holder that removably holds the battery,

wherein the battery holder is configured for allowing removal of the battery along a virtual plane that extends in parallel with respect to a bottom bracket axis of the bicycle, when the battery holder is connected to the frame.

In this way, a user can remove the battery simply by retracting the battery in lateral direction from the bicycle frame, thereby rotating the battery out of the respective holder (e.g. after having unlocked the battery in case a locking device is present, as is described above). Replacing the battery in the frame can be achieved be reverse rotational movement.

Also, in another aspect of the invention, the motor controller can be separate from the battery structure. For example, the motor controller can be connected to the bicycle frame, such as in the gap that is located below the seat tube. More particularly, there can be provided a bicycle, including a frame as well as an auxiliary motor, the frame being provided with a battery structure and a motor controller, wherein the battery structure is removably connected to the frame, wherein the motor controller is covered by the removable battery structure, for example between part of the removable battery structure on one hand and the bicycle frame on the other hand.

In this way, the removable battery structure can function as a cover of the motor controller. Thus, access to the motor controller can be achieved in a straight-forward manner, by removing the battery structure from the frame. In particular, in that embodiment, the battery structure may be configured substantially the same as the battery structure described above, e.g. including a battery holder (docking) that removably holds the battery.