WO2019199167A1

WO2019199167A1 - Bicycle light system and method and systems for use therewith

Info

Publication number: WO2019199167A1
Application number: PCT/NL2019/050214
Authority: WO
Inventors: Elizabeth Cornelia BOSUA
Original assignee: Forgetalert B.V.
Priority date: 2018-04-11
Filing date: 2019-04-11
Publication date: 2019-10-17
Also published as: NL2020746B1; EP3797065A1

Abstract

System comprising a vehicle, at least one sensor device in said vehicle and at least one hand held communication device, wherein the at least one sensor device comprises at least one wireless communication device for wireless communication with the hand held communication device, wherein the hand held device and/or the sensor device is provided with circuitry and/or software for issuing an alert signal based on a signal received from the sensor device and/or upon bringing the hand held device at a predetermined range from the sensor device, especially at a position outside the communication range of said wireless communication device and/or upon bringing the hand held device at a predetermined distance from said sensor device, especially inside the communication range of said wireless communication device

Description

Title: Bicycle light system and method and systems for use therewith

The disclosure relates to a bicycle light system. The disclosure further relates to a bicycle light, especially for use in such system. Moreover the disclosure is directed to a connector, especially for use in a system or bicycle hght according to the disclosure. The disclosure further relates to a method for control of a bicycle light or light system.

For safety of bicycles proper lighting is highly important. To that end bicycles are commonly provided with both a front hght and a rear light. These lights can be powered by either a generator, for example mounted in a wheel axel, or by a battery pack, usually provided in the bicycle light itself.

A user will normally switch a light on and off, depending on the time of day, especially whether it is day or night. This may be disadvantageous since a user may forget to switch a light on or may forget to switch the light off. The latter may be a problem, especially for battery energized lights, for this will run out the battery very quickly. Moreover mechanical switches for bike lights are prone to malfunction.

An aim of the present disclosure is to provide for an alternative bicycle hght system. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide for a bicycle hght system enabling easy control, especially of switching on and/or off a bicycle light. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide for a bicycle light system providing alternative features for bicycle management. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide for a bicycle light enabling easy control, especially of switching on and/of off the bicycle hght. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide for a connector, especially for use in a bicycle light system, enabling easy control.

At least one of these and other aims can be obtained with a system, bicycle light, connector, battery pack and/or method of the disclosure. In a first aspect the disclosure can be characterized by a bicycle light system comprising at least a bicycle bght comprising a light source and provided with or connectable to an energy source. The energy source can for example be an alternator or generator or the like or a battery pack. A switch is provided for switching the light source on and off by connecting and disconnecting the energy source to and from the bght source. The bicycle light system further comprises at least one of a wireless communication device and a memory, connected to the switch, wherein the switch is operable through a first signal from the wireless communication device and/or by a second signal based on data stored in the memory.

In a further aspect the disclosure can be characterize by a bicycle light, wherein the bicycle light comprises a light source and an energy source, wherein a switch is provided for switching the light source on and off by connecting and disconnecting the energy source to and from the light source. The bicycle light further comprises at least one of a wireless communication device and a memory, connected to the switch, wherein the switch is operable through a first signal from the wireless communication device and/or by a second signal based on data stored in the memory.

In a further aspect the disclosure can be characterized by a battery compartment, comprising at least one battery and at least one contact element for connecting to said at least one battery. A connector is provided, comprising a first and second connector element, separated from each other by an isolating element, wherein an electronic switch is connected between said first and second connector element, wherein in use the first connector element is connected to the battery and the second connector element is connected to the contact element or a second battery.

In a further aspect the disclosure can be characterized by a method for operating a bicycle light, the bicycle bght comprising a processor unit and a memory and preferably a clock or timer. A sunrise-sunset calendar is loaded into the memory, preferably via a wireless device provided in the bicycle light, wherein an algorithm is provided in the processor unit of the bicycle light for comparing a current time parameter with a time parameter retrieved from the memory and providing a switch on and/or switch off signal based on such comparing.

In the present disclosure preferably further a mobile phone or such mobile communication device is provided, for wireless communication with the wireless communication device of the system or bicycle light, such that the or each bicycle light can be switched on and/or off on the bases of a signal sent from the mobile phone to the wireless communication device, for generating the first signal, and/or for loading data onto said memory, such as but not limit to a sunrise -sunset calendar.

In embodiments a system, especially a bicycle light of the disclosure, can comprise a movement sensor for detecting movement of the bicycle, for example indicative for cycling on the bicycle comprising the bicycle light.

In embodiments a bicycle hght system of the disclosure can comprise at least one bicycle light provided with a wireless communication device and a memory, and preferably at least two such bicycle hghts, especially a front and a rear bicycle hght, wherein the or each wireless communication device can pair with a mobile phone of the system when brought within a predetermined communication range, preferably

automatically. Moreover the system may comprise a bicycle key provided with or connected to a wireless communication device suitable for pairing and/or connecting, especially automatically, with the same mobile phone when brought within a predetermined communication range, which range may be the same as or different from the predetermined communication range of the or each bicycle light. Additionally the system can be set for broadcasting which allows for example to inform other users of the location of the key. The or each wireless communication device for a bicycle light or a bicycle key as described may be or at least comprise a BlueTooth® system, especially a chip.

In further elucidation of the present disclosure embodiments of a system, method and parts thereof shall be shown and discussed hereafter, by way of example only. These shall in no way be limiting the scope of the disclosure in any way. In these embodiments the same or similar elements or features shall have the same or similar reference signs. In this disclosure:

Fig. 1 schematically shows a bicycle comprising a bicycle light system of the disclosure;

Fig. 2 schematically shows a bicycle light of the disclosure;

Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of a bicycle hght of the disclosure;

Fig. 4 schematically shows an embodiment of a battery compartment of the disclosure;

Fig. 5 schematically shows an embodiment of a battery compartment of the disclosure;

Fig. 6 schematically shows a bicycle light system including a bicycle key or key chain; and

Fig. 7 shows schematically a system or part thereof according to the disclosure.

In this description bicycle should be understood as including but not limited to two or three wheeled bicycles, powered by human force and/or support engines, such as electrical and hybrid bicycles or the hke. A user of a bicycle or a driver has to be understood as including but not limited to a person, male or female, who uses such bicycle. A bicycle can for example also be a transporter bicycle, skelter or the like vehicle.

In this description mobile phone has to be interpreted broadly as a hand held communication device, which has to be understood as including but not limited to a mobile telephone, especially a smart phone, a portable computer or tablet computer. In this description circuitry has to be understood as including but not limited to wired or wireless circuitry, integrated circuits (IC), circuitry part of other circuitry such as vehicle electronics. Such circuitry can comprise a wireless communication provision or device, such as for example but not limited to a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth™, such as for example Bluetooth™-3, -4 or -5, for example a Bluetooth™ chip. In this description communication range has to be understood as at least comprising but not limited to a maximum distance between the wireless communication provision such as said Bluetooth™ chip and said mobile phone, at which communication, or at least pairing and/or connecting can still be established there between. A predetermined distance has to be understood as at least but not limited to a distance within said maximum communication range or a maximum communication range set in or by the system smaller than or equal to a maximum possible communication range. Wireless communication in this disclosure should be understood at least as including but not limited to sending and/or receiving signals according to a defined protocol, such as Wi-Fi or, preferably, Bluetooth™, including but not limited to sending a signal from the wireless communication device to the hand held device and/or sending a signal from the hand held device to the wireless communication device of the bicycle light or light system.

In this disclosure an app should be understood as at least meaning a computer program product or application software suitable to be downloaded onto, embedded in and/or run on or by a mobile electronic device, especially a mobile phone or table computer. An app may be run locally on such device or by interaction with a computer based system such as but not limited to an Internet based system. Data used by and/or generated by an app may be stored locally on a device using the app and/or at a different location, such as for example in a central or decentral data base or in the cloud. In this disclosure a battery compartment has to be understood as at least meaning a provision comprising at least one battery, which battery or batteries can be a disposable or rechargeable, and pole(s) for connecting to or connected to for example a light source of a front or rear bicycle light or such element or elements to be electrically powered. The battery

compartment can be integral to or separate from a bicycle light.

Fig. 1 schematically shows a bicycle 100 as known in the art and will not be discussed here in detail unless for understanding the invention. The bicycle 100 is provided with a bicycle hght system 1, which in

embodiments is provided with a front bicycle light 2 and/or a rear bicycle light 3. In embodiments the bicycle 100 can be provided with a bicycle lock 4, for example fixed to the bicycle 1, integrated in the bicycle or a separate lock 4, such as a chain lock as known in the art. The lock 4 may be locked and unlocked using a key 5. In embodiments such lock 4 can be omitted.

Hereafter a front bicycle light 2 is described by way of example. A rear bicycle hght 3 can be technically substantially similar or identical to a front bicycle light 2, but can for example be designed for emitting light in a different color, for example red light for a rear light 3 in stead of white light for a front light 2.

A bicycle light 2, 3 as for example shown in fig. 2 and 3 comprises a housing 5 in which hght source 6 is provided, provided with or connected to an energy source 7. In the embodiment shown the light source comprises a battery compartment 8 holding at least one battery 9. The light source can be any suitable light source, such as a bulb or one or more LED’s. Circuitry 10 is provided in or for the bicycle light 2, 3, which circuitry comprises a switch 11 provided for switching the hght source 6 on and off by connecting and disconnecting the energy source 7 to and from the light source 6. The bicycle hght system 1 further comprises at least one of a wireless

communication device 12 and a memory 13. In the embodiment shown the bicycle hght 2, 3 comprises both a memory 13 and a wireless communication device 12, which in embodiments can be BlueTooth® based and can for example comprise a BlueTooth® chip. The memory 13 and wireless communication device 12 are connected to the switch 11, for example as part of or through the circuitry 10. The switch 11 is preferably an electronic switch such as for example but not limited to a MOSFET based switch.

The circuitry 10 is designed for wireless communication with a hand held communication device, for the sake of efficiency further referred to as a smartphone 14, although it can be a different type of device, such as a laptop, tablet or the like. The circuitry 10 in this embodiment comprises, by way of example, a Bluetooth™ chip and an energy source 7. The smart phone 14 is provided with a Bluetooth™ receiver. Hence signals can be exchanged between the circuitry 10 and the smartphone 14.

The circuitry 10 preferably also comprises a movement sensor 15. A processing unit 16 can be provided separate from or for example

integrated with the wireless communication device 12 and/or the memory 13 and/or the energy source 7 and/or the switch 11.

The switch 11 is preferably operable through at least a first signal Si from the wireless communication device 12 and/or by a second signal S2 based on data stored in the memory 13.

In embodiments during use the memory 13 can contain a digital sunrise-sunset calendar as known in the art, which can be embedded permanently in the memory or can be uploaded into the memory 13, for example using the smartphone 14 and the wireless communication device 12. Alternatively the system can be provided with a connector (not shown) for connecting a wire to the system for connecting to for example a computer system, allowing uploading the sunrise -sunset calendar. The sunrise-sunset calendar can be uploaded into the system by a user, for example based on the area in which the bicycle is used. Preferably the circuitry 10, such as a processing unit 16, comprises a clock and/or a timer for registering the actual time in the area in which the bicycle is used, such that the actual time can be used for comparing with data retrieved from the memory 13, especially form the calendar.

A bicycle light system 1 of the disclosure can be used as follows.

A user installs at least one bicycle hght 2, 3 according to the disclosure, preferably both a front hght 2 and a rear light 3 on a bicycle 100. The user further downloads an app onto the mobile phone 14, which app is designed to at least allow pairing and connecting with the wireless communication device(s) 12 of the bicycle light(s) 2, 3 and preferably also for sending appropriate signals to and/or receiving signals from the wireless communication device(s) 12 and preferably also for uploading data to the memory/memories 13 of the system 1. The app may also be designed for broadcasting or receiving broadcasts, for example broadcasts about the location of a bicycle or its key. Furthermore the app may be designed for registering a location, for example a GPS location when a connection is lost between the mobile phone 14 and a wireless connecting device 12, 12A paired therewith, for example for enabling relocating of the bicycle or its key. Then the user pairs the mobile phone 14 with the wireless

communication device(s) 12 of the light(s) 2, 3. After the first initial pairing preferably later connecting will be performed automatically when the mobile phone 14 is brought within a communication range R between the mobile phone 14 and the wireless communication device(s) 12 of the light(s) 2, 3. The communication range preferably can be set by a user, for example using the app, and can for example be between centimeters and several tens of meters. Hence when a user approaches the bike 100 with the mobile phone 14, when arriving within the range R the mobile phone wih pair with the devices 12, whereas when the mobile phone 14 is brought outside the said range R, the connection will be lost.

In embodiments the app can be designed such that the user can directly sent a signal to the wireless communication device(s) 12 for generating the first signal Si, switching on and/or off the light(s), either individually or in combination. As an additional feature the app may allow the lights 2, 3 to be switched on in different regimes, for example on constantly or on in a blinking setting, for example flashing on and off in a regular or in a random pattern, which may especially for a rear light 3 increase visibility and reduce energy consumption.

In embodiments the user can upload a sunrise-sunset calendar to the memory/memories 13, if not present already. Then the circuitry can generate the second signal S2, based on the actual time in the area where the bike 100 is and data from the calendar. The system can for example be set to send a second signal S2_(on) to switch on the light(s) a predetermined period prior to (or after) sunset in said area and to send a second signal Sacoff) to switch off the light(s) a predetermined period after (or prior to) sunrise. The said predetermined periods may be predefined in the system 1 or can be settable by a user, for example in the app. In embodiments a clock of the mobile phone 14 can be used for defining the actual time, but preferably a clock is provided in the circuitry 10.

If only the calendar is used for switching on and off the light(s) the lights(s) would switch on and off even if a user is not going to use the bike 100. This is obviously undesirable, for example because of energy consumption. Hence the system 1 is preferably designed such that at least one other signal S3 is necessary for allowing at least switching the light(s) on and preferably also for switching the lights(s) off.

In embodiments such other signal S3 can be generated by a connecting signal received by the wireless communication device(s) 12 of the light(s) for switching the light(s) on. A disconnecting signal, i.e. a signal generated when the connection between the mobile phone 14 and the wireless communication device(s) is lost, can be used for turning the light(s) off. Hence the light(s) will turn on only when both the signal S2_(on) is generated and the mobile phone 14 is within the communication range R. The light(s) preferably will turn off either when the second signal S_2(ofi) for turning off the light is generated or when a de-pairing signal is received.

Additionally or alternatively such other signal S₃ can be generated by“pushing” a button on the app when the mobile phone 14 is paired, for example for overruling the second signal(s) S2(_on) and/or S2(_0ff). This can for example be useful when a user is retrieving the bicycle and needs help locating it. Additionally or alternatively the system 100 can be provided with a sound generator, such as for example a piezo based buzzer, providing a sound when pushing said“button”, further helping in locating a bicycle, for example in a bike storage or parking facility.

In embodiments the system 1, especially the app can be designed to indicate to a user how far the user is from the bicycle 100, for example based on signal strength and/or general direction of the communication between the mobile phone 14 and a wireless communication device 12, 12A of the bicycle 100. This can for example be done by a visual indication on a screen of the mobile phone, for example but not limited to a change in a color pattern in one direction when moving towards the bicycle and in a different direction when moving away from the bicycle. For example intensifying a color when moving towards the bicycle and fading the color when moving away from it. Hence when in an environment with for example many bicycles, for example a bicycle parking, a user is trying to locate the bicycle 100, the mobile phone 14 will connect to the at least one wireless communication device 12, 12A of the bicycle 100 paired therewith. The connector may trigger at least temporarily switching on a bicycle hght 2, 3, but may also present on the screen of the mobile phone an indicator for locating the bicycle 100, so that even in a bright hghted environment the locating is possible. A user may for example press a“locate button” or icon on the screen, presenting a for example circle, which for example may change towards green when moving in the direction of the bicycle, or change towards red when moving away from the bicycle. In embodiments the app may even present an indicator for a general direction towards the bicycle 10. As discussed, the app in the mobile phone 14 can be designed for registering and storing a location, especially a GPS location where a connection is lost between a wireless communication device 12 of a light 2, 3, such that later on the bicycle can be relocated easily by retrieving said stored location, and/or where a connection is lost with a wireless communication device 12A of a key 5 or key chain 18, for easily retrieving the location of the key 5.

In embodiments the or a movement sensor 15 can be used for generating said other signal S3. In such embodiments for example the light(s) 2, 3 may be turned on when both the signal SM- m based on the calendar is generated and movement of the bicycle 100 is detected by the movement sensor 15, preferably movement indicating that a user is preparing the bicycle for use or is using the bicycle for transportation. For example the system can be set to detect movement above a predetermined threshold before generating the signal S3. Such threshold may for example be or include a predetermined time for which movement is to be detected, a predetermined type and/or amount of movement or the like, such that for example a mere pushing against the bicycle 100, for example when parked, will not generate the signal S3, whereas taking the bicycle for riding it mil. In embodiments the system may be set such that as long as movement is detected, at least periodically the said other signal S3 will be generated cq received and the light(s) will stay on, at least as long as no second signal S2(off) or a first signal for switching off the light(s) is received. When the other signal S3 from the movement sensor is no longer received, at least during a predetermined period of time, the light(s) will switch off again, if on, preferably with a short time delay.

A bicycle 100 of the disclosure can be provided with a lock 4 which can comprise a sensor 17 for sensing at least unlocking of the lock 4. This sensor 17 can be used for generating the other signal S3, such that if the lock 4 is unlocked, the signal S3 is generated enabling switching on the light(s). Preferably then the light(s) will be switched off when the lock 4 is locked again.

In fig. 6 an alternative embodiment is shown, simil r to that of fig. 1, but wherein a key 5 or a key chain 18 or tag is provided for the bicycle lock 4, which also comprises at least a wireless communication device 12A, similar to or identical to that of the light(s) 2, 3, which can also be paired with the mobile phone 14 and/or with at least one wireless communication device 12 of a bicycle light 2, 3. In such embodiment for example

(re)connecting of the wireless communication device 12A of the key or key chain 18 to the mobile phone 14 can be used for generating the signal S3.

Moreover in such embodiments disconnecting of the wireless communication device 12A of the key or key chain 18 and the mobile phone can be used for reminding a user of the key which for example may still be in the lock when the user walks away from the bicycle and leaves the communication range R.

In embodiments the system can be set to send a further signal S₄ when for example movement of the bicycle 100 is detected by the movement sensor 15 but for example the mobile phone 14 is not paired with the device(s) 12 of the light(s) 2, 3 and/or the device 12A of the key or key chain 18, which may be indicative of theft or at least unauthorized movement of the bicycle 100. Such further signal S i can for example be used to set off an alarm in the system 1, for example by switching on at least one hght 2, 3 and/or a buzzer permanently for a period of time, or intermittently and/or be sent to for example a caretaker of a bike storing or parking facihty in which the bicycle 100 is present.

Obviously combinations of two or more of the embodiments for at least generating the other signal S₃ and or further signal S₄ disclosed can be combined.

In embodiments as disclosed the circuitry 10, especially wireless communication device(s), which can also be referred to as a radio IC or chip 6 can be programmable. Such chips or IC’s 6 are known in the art.

Programmable can for example mean that a maximum communication range R can be set for the radio IC or chip 6. Such range, in fig. 2 and 3 schematically shown, can for example be up to tens of meters when not amended, and can be set for example to less than about 50 m. In

embodiments the range R can be set to less than about 25 m, more preferably less than about 10 m. In embodiments such range can be set to less than about 5 m. In embodiments the communication range R can be set to be limited substantially to an immediate surrounding of the bicycle.

In this disclosure substantially has to be understood as meaning that small deviations of a given parameter are acceptable with such definition, for example up to 25% of a value, especially of a numerical value, for example up to 15%, such as up to 10% or 5%. An immediate surrounding or direct vicinity of a bicycle should be understood as meaning at least an area around the bicycle covered by substantially a circle drawn around the relevant wireless communication device(s), said circle having a diameter less than about four a maximum length of the bicycle, measured

between a front and back of said bicycle, preferably less than 2 times said length, such as for example the said length or less.

In embodiments the radio IC or chip 6 can have a communication range R which is predefined to be limited as indicated here above, for example in a non programmable part of the circuitry or at least not programmable by an individual user.

Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a bicycle light as described here above, in which the circuitry 10 comprises an energy source 7, formed by a battery compartment 8 comprising at least one battery 9 connected between two poles 20A, 20B. The poles 20A, B are connected to the light source 6 via the switch 11 and wires 21A, B. The wireless communication device 12, the memory 13, and the movement sensor 15, if provided for, are in this embodiments provided outside the battery compartment 8. The circuitry 10 can be provided with an additional battery or battery pack 22 for energizing at least the wireless communication device 12 and/or the memory 13 and/or the switch 11.

Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of a bicycle light as described here before, in which however the circuitry 10, including at least the wireless communication device 12, the memory 13, the movement sensor 15, if provided, and the switch 11 are all enclosed in the battery compartment 8.

In this embodiment the circuitry is provided inside a circuitry housing 23 which can be placed inside the battery compartment 8, for example replacing a battery 9. In such embodiment, as is for example shown in more detail in fig. 5, in said circuitry housing 23 a battery 9A can be provided which can be used for energizing the circuitry 10 and its components, such as the wireless communication device 12, memory 13, switch 11 and movement sensor 15, as well as provide energy for the light source 6 when it is switched on.

By way of example, the circuitry housing 23 can have the shape and dimensions largely corresponding to a standard battery, such as an AA or AAA battery as commonly used for bicycle lights, whereas the additional battery can be a smaller battery, such as but not limited to a half AA or half AAA battery, or for example an AAA battery if used in an AA sized circuitry housing, or one or more button type batteries.

By using a system according to fig. 3 with a circuitry housing 23 fitting in a position in a battery compartment 8, replacing a normal battery 9, the system can easily be implemented in an existing battery compartment 8, for example in an existing bicycle light 2, 3, for example as mounted to a bicycle 100, without having to replace the bicycle light 2, 3 as such. For example in a battery compartment housing multiple batteries, one of the batteries can be replaced by the circuitry housing 23 with the circuitry 10 as disclosed here before. Moreover this enables easy mounting without requiring additional space in the housing of a bicycle hght 2, 3 or other device comprising the battery compartment 8.

Fig. 4 discloses an alternative embodiment of a battery compartment 8, in which at least one battery 9 is provided between two poles 20A, B as contact elements. In this embodiment a connector 25 is provided, comprising a first connector element 26 and second connector element 27, separated from each other by an isolating element 28. An electronic switch 11 is connected between said first and second connector element 26, 27, wherein in use the first connector element 26 is connected to the battery 9 and the second connector element 27 is connected to one of the poles 20A, 20B or a further battery 9. In this embodiment the switch 11 is enclosed in a housing 28, which further comprises further circuitry 10 components, such as the wireless communication device 12, a memory 13, a movement sensor 15 and a further battery 22 for energizing the circuitry 10. In this embodiment the connector, especially the connector 25 can be inserted between a pole 20A or 20B and the battery 9 or between two batteries 9 in the battery compartment 8, the one connector element 26 being in electrical contact with the battery 9 and the other connector element 27 in electrical contact with the pole 20 or a further battery 9, isolated by the isolation 28 and the switch 11 when open. If the switch is closed, electrical current can flow from the first to the second connector element 26, 27 or vice versa and the light source 6 will be powered. In this embodiment again the system 1 can easily be implemented in existing battery compartments and existing bicycle lights, by inserting the connector 25. This embodiment will require some additional space in the housing 4 of the light 2, 3.

As discussed in fig. 6 an embodiment is shown in which a key or key chain 18 is provided, having at least a wireless communication device 12. This can also be referred to as a tag 18. Fig. 7 shows a combination of a key 5 with a tag or key chain 18, comprising a wireless communication device 12A, and a battery

compartment 8 with a circuitry 10 as disclosed, for example as shown in fig. 4 or 5. In this embodiment the wireless communication device can, as in the embodiment of fig. 6, may be any suitable type of communication device, such as a BlueTooth® chip, which is provided with a battery or the like as power supply (not shown). In this embodiment the key chain or tag 18 is provided with a button 18A, connected to the wireless communication device 12A. In this embodiment by activating, for example pushing the button 18A the wireless communication device can be made to send out a signal Sr,, to be received by the wireless communication device 12 of the battery

compartment 8. Sending out the signal Sr, can then trigger the wireless communication device 12 of the battery compartment to send out the first signal SI, for example switching on the relevant light source 6 or at least allowing the light source to be switched on when also another signal S2, S3 and/or S4 is received, as for example discussed here before. Obviously the wireless communication device 12A and/or 12 could be designed for sending out said signal S_o autonomous, for example permanently or intermittently, but this would have the disadvantage of high energy consumption.

By having the tag 18A sending out the signal S_¾ this system would have the advantage that in addition to or instead of the possibilities as discussed here before, the tag 18 can be used for activating lights 2, 3, for example when arriving at a bicycle 100 within a communication range Ris within which communication between the wireless communication devices 12 and 12A, without the need of having the mobile phone present too. For example when lending the bicycle to a user without the mobile phone 14 paired to the devices 12, 12A, the lights 2, 3 could still be operated, even independent of for example the second signal S2 and/or third signal S3 as discussed. Moreover it allows for example for switching on at least one light 2, 3 and/or sounding a buzzer of the bicycle when the bicycle is parked, for easy retrieval. In embodiments an algorithm could be provided allowing switching on of the lights only after pressing the button 18A.

In embodiments of a system 1 as disclosed having both at least one light 2, 3 with a wireless communication device 12 and a key 5 or key chain 18 with a wireless communication device 12A, e.g. BlueTooth chips, paired with a mobile phone 14, an algorithm in the mobile phone 14 and/or in a control unit of the at least one light 2, 3 could be designed to require both the wireless communication device 12A and at least one wireless communication device 12 to be connected to the mobile phone 14 in order to allow for example switching on the or each light 2, 3, or allow switching off the lights only of the wireless communication device 12A is stih connected to the mobile phone 14 when the wireless communication device(s) 12 of the light(s) is or are disconnected from the mobile phone by bringing the mobile phone outside the communication range R, such that when the bicycle is left with the key 5 still in the lock 4, the lights 2 and/or 3 will stay on or even switch on, reminding a user to lock the bicycle.

In embodiments shown the or circuitry 10 including the wireless communication device 12 and/or the memory 13 is provided inside a housing 5 of a bicycle light 2, 3, for example in or attached to a battery holder or alternator. However, in embodiments the circuitry 10 can also be provided outside such housing 5, for example in or attached to a frame of the bicycle 100. The circuitry 10 can then be connected to the light source(s) of the bicycle hght(s) by wired or wireless connection for switching on and/or off the light(s) 2, 3. Additionally or alternatively for example a first of the bicycle hghts 2, 3 can be provided with a full circuitry 10 as discussed, including for example the wireless communication device 12 for pairing with and connecting to the mobile phone 14 and a memory for storing said calendar and for example a movement sensor 15 and/or a light sensor, whereas the or each further bicycle light 3, 2 is provided with a simpler circuitry, for example a communication device designed for communicating with or at least receiving signals from the said first bicycle light 2, 3, for switching the light source(s) of said further light(s) on and/or off, for example through a wired or a wireless connection, such that they operate as a master-slave system.

Embodiments as discussed here above can be suitable for retrofitting bicycle hghts of bicycles for use in or creating a system 1 of the disclosure. However, circuitry as discussed can also be embedded in a bicycle hght or bicycle, when manufactured new.

In a system 1 according to the disclosure the or each battery 9,

9A, 22 can be a disposable battery or a rechargeable battery. In

embodiments instead of a battery compartment the light source and/or circuitry can be powered by another power source 7, such as through an alternator.

The disclosure is by no means limited to the embodiments specifically disclosed and discussed herein. Many variations are possible within the scope of the disclosure as defined by at least the claims. For example one of the bike lights 2, 3 can be provided with the circuitry 10 as disclosed, whereas the or each other bike hght can be connected to said one bike hght, such that they can be operated together. For example the wireless communication devices 12 of the lights can be connected or connectable to each other, or a wire can be provided between the bicycle lights 2, 3. The app or similar software on the mobile phone 14 can be designed differently. By providing the sunrise-sunset calendar in a memory in a bike light 2, 3 and especially when combined with a movement sensor 16 the advantage can be obtained that the bike lights will switch on and off appropriately also when the mobile phone is not within the communication range R. However, the calendar could also be provided in the mobile phone 14, for example in the app. In embodiments in stead of or additional to the calendar a light sensor can be provided for indicating whether switching on or off of the bicycle lights would ne necessary or desirable or advisable. In the embodiments disclosed the bike light(s) is/are connected to the bicycle 100. However, they could also be provided in a different manner, for example but not limited to connected to a users clothing or in or on a helmet or cap.

These and many other such modifications are considered falling within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. Bicycle light system comprising at least a bicycle light comprising a light source and provided with or connected to an energy source, wherein a switch is provided for switching the light source on and off by connecting and disconnecting the energy source to and from the light source, wherein the bicycle light system further comprises at least one of a wireless communication device and a memory, connected to the switch, wherein the switch is operable through a first signal from the wireless communication device and/or by a second signal based on data stored in the memory.

2. Bicycle hght system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises both a wireless communication device and a memory, connected to or connectable to the wireless communication device, wherein data stored on the memory comprises a sunrise-sunset calendar providing data for generating a signal for operating the switch.

3. Bicycle hght system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the system further comprises a movement sensor.

4. Bicycle light system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the wireless communication device is or comprises a BlueTooth device.

5. Bicycle hght system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the system further comprises at least one mobile communication device suitable for wireless communication with the wireless communication device, comprising software for pairing and/or connecting the mobile communication device with the wireless communication device when within a predefined communication range of the wireless communication device.

6. Bicycle hght system according to claim 5, wherein the software on the mobile communication device is designed for loading data onto the memory.

7. Bicycle light system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the software on the mobile communication device is designed for operating the switch.

8. Bicycle hght system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the bicycle light system comprises an algorithm for operating the switch, such that the light source:

is turned on when at least the second signal is provided from the memory, indicating a current time is within a predetermined period from sunset and movement of a bicycle to which the bicycle light is connected is detected; and

is turned off when at least the second signal is provided from the memory, indicating a current time is within a predetermined period from sunrise and/or no movement of a bicycle to which the bicycle hght is connected is detected within a predetermined period of time; and/or

- is turned on when a predetermined first signal is provided from the wireless communication device.

9. Bicycle hght system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein at least two bicycle lights are provided, each comprising at least a wireless communication device and/or a memory and a switch, operable by said first and/or second signal.

10. Bicycle hght system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the system further comprises a tag, especially a tag connected to or provided in a bicycle lock key, the tag comprising at least a wireless communication device for paring with a hand held communication device and/or with at least one of the wireless communication device or the bicycle light system.

11. Bicycle hght, especially for use in a bicycle light system of any one of the previous claims, wherein the bicycle hght comprises a hght source and an energy source, wherein a switch is provided for switching the light source on and off by connecting and disconnecting the energy source to and from the light source, wherein the bicycle hght further comprises at least one of a wireless communication device and a memory, connected to the switch, wherein the switch is operable through a first signal from the wireless communication device and/or by a second signal based on data stored in the memory.

12. Bicycle hght according to claim 11, wherein the bicycle light comprises both a wireless communication device, preferably a BlueTooth device, and a memory.

13. Bicycle hght according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the memory comprises a sunset-sunrise calendar.

14. Bicycle hght according to any one of claims 11 - 13, further comprising a movement sensor.

15. Bicycle hght according to claims 11 - 14, wherein further a processor unit is provided for operating the switch based on at least a second signal from the memory and a third signal from the movement sensor.

16. Bicycle hght according to claim 15, wherein further a is

provided connected to the processor unit.

17. Bicycle hght according to any one of claims 11 - 16, wherein the bicycle hght comprises a battery compartment comprising at least one battery and at least one contact element for connecting to said at least one battery, wherein a connector is provided, comprising a first and second connector element, separated from each other by an isolating element, wherein the switch is an electronic switch connected between said first and second connector element, wherein in use the first connector element is connected to the battery and the second connector element is connected to the contact element or a second battery.

18. Bicycle hght according to claim 17, wherein the first connector element and the second connector element are provided on opposite sides of an isolating strip as isolating element.

19. Bicycle light according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the connector is provided with an energy source, especially at least one battery, separate from the energy source of the bicycle light for energizing the light source.

20. Bicycle hght according to claim 17, wherein at least the connector is integrated in a battery.

21. Battery compartment, comprising at least one battery and at least one connector element for connecting to said at least one battery, wherein a connector is provided, comprising a first and second connector element, separated from each other by an isolating element, wherein an electronic switch is connected between said first and second connector element, wherein in use the first connector element is connected to the battery and the second connector element is connected to the contact element or a second battery.

22. Battery compartment according to claim 21, wherein the first connector element and the second connector element are provided on opposite sides of an isolating strip as isolating element.

23. Battery compartment according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the connector is provided with an energy source, especially at least one battery, separate from the energy source of the bicycle hght for energizing the light source.

24. Battery compartment according to claim 21, wherein at least the connector is provided in a battery.

25. Connector for use with a battery compartment, comprising a first and second connector element, separated from each other by an isolating element, wherein an electronic switch is connected between said first and second connector element, wherein in use the first connector element is connected to a battery and the second connector element is connected to the contact element or a second battery.

26. Connector according to claim 25, wherein the first connector element and the second connector element are provided on opposite sides of an isolating strip as isolating element.

27. Connector according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the connector is provided with an energy source, especially at least one battery, for operating at least the switch.

28. Bicycle comprising a bicycle light system according to any one of claims 1 - 10 or a bicycle light according to any one of claims 11 - 18.

29. Method for operating a bicycle hght, the bicycle light comprising a processor unit and a memory, wherein a sunrise-sunset calendar is loaded into the memory, preferably via a wireless device provided in the bicycle light, wherein an algorithm is provided in the processor unit of the bicycle light for comparing a current time parameter with a time parameter retrieved from the memory and providing a switch on and/or switch off signal based on such comparing.

30. Method according to claim 29, wherein further a movement sensor is used for detecting movement of the bicycle light, wherein a light source of the bicycle light is switched on when the switch on signal is received and movement of the bicycle light is detected above a predetermined threshold and the light source is switched off when the switch off signal is received and/or when no movement is detected of the bicycle light.

31. Method according to claim 29, wherein a wireless communication device is provided, and wherein a connecting signal is obtained by the processor unit when a mobile device is connected with the wireless communication device.