Driving device and battery holding device for human-powered vehicle

Abstract

The present invention provides a human-powered vehicle drive device and a battery holding device that can contribute to improved functionality. The human-powered vehicle drive device includes a motor that assists in propulsion of the human-powered vehicle and a first electrical switch unit that includes an operating member.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with the application date of March 11, 2019, application number: 201910179905.2, and invention name: Driving device and battery retaining device for human-powered vehicle. Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a driving device and a battery holding device for a human-driven vehicle. Background Art

[0004] A human-powered vehicle drive device mounted on a human-powered vehicle is known. Conventional human-powered vehicle drive devices include a motor that assists in propulsion of the human-powered vehicle and a base that houses the motor. Patent Document 1 discloses an example of a conventional human-powered vehicle drive device.

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-30395

[0008] The present invention aims to improve the functionality of a drive device for a human-powered vehicle. It should be noted that, here, the problem of a drive device for a human-powered vehicle mounted on a human-powered vehicle is discussed as an example, but the same problem also exists in other components mounted on a human-powered vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a drive device and a battery holding device for a human-powered vehicle that can contribute to improved functionality.

[0010] A human-powered vehicle drive device according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a motor that assists propulsion of the human-powered vehicle; and a first electrical switch unit that includes an operating member.

[0011] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the first aspect, since the first electrical switch unit is mounted, it can contribute to improved functionality.

[0012] In the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the second aspect of the first aspect, the first electrical switch unit is configured to output an electrical signal for changing a control state of the motor.

[0013] The second aspect of the human-powered vehicle drive device can contribute to improved functionality. In addition, since the first electrical switch unit and the motor are located close to each other, the wires used to connect the first electrical switch unit and the motor can be shortened.

[0014] In the human-powered vehicle drive device of a third aspect according to the first or second aspect, the first electrical switch portion further includes a placement member having a first recess capable of at least partially placing the operating member.

[0015] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the third aspect, the operating members can be appropriately arranged.

[0016] The human-powered vehicle drive device according to a fourth aspect of any one of the first to third aspects further includes a base portion provided with at least one of the motor and the speed reducer.

[0017] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device of the fourth aspect, when at least one of the motor and the speed reducer is disposed in the base, the at least one of the motor and the speed reducer can be protected by the base.

[0018] In the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the fifth aspect of the fourth aspect, the first electrical switch portion is provided on the base, and at least a portion of the operating member is exposed to the outside of the base.

[0019] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the fifth aspect, the operability of the operating member is improved.

[0020] In a sixth aspect of the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the operating member is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the base.

[0021] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the sixth aspect, the operability of the operating member is improved.

[0022] In the seventh aspect of the human-powered vehicle drive device according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, the first electrical switch portion is integrated with the base portion.

[0023] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the seventh aspect, the number of components constituting the human-powered vehicle drive device can be reduced.

[0024] In the human-powered vehicle drive device according to an eighth aspect of any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, the base portion includes a first mounting portion to which the first electrical switch portion can be mounted.

[0025] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the eighth aspect, the first electrical switch portion can be appropriately attached to the base portion.

[0026] In the human-powered vehicle driving device according to a ninth aspect of any one of the fourth to eighth aspects, a first wireless communication unit is further provided on the base portion and capable of transmitting or receiving wireless signals.

[0027] According to the human-powered vehicle driving device according to the ninth aspect, since the first wireless communication unit is mounted, it can contribute to improved functionality.

[0028] In the human-powered vehicle drive device according to a tenth aspect of the ninth aspect, the first electrical switch portion is configured to output an electrical signal for causing the first wireless communication portion to perform wireless communication.

[0029] The human-powered vehicle drive device according to the tenth aspect can contribute to improved functionality. In addition, since the first electrical switch unit and the first wireless communication unit are close to each other, the wires used to connect the first electrical switch unit and the first wireless communication unit can be shortened.

[0030] In an eleventh aspect of the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the ninth or tenth aspect, the base portion includes a second mounting portion on which the first wireless communication portion can be mounted.

[0031] According to the human-powered vehicle driving device of the eleventh aspect, the first wireless communication unit can be appropriately attached to the base.

[0032] In the twelfth aspect of the human-powered vehicle drive device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, there is also a first control unit, which is electrically connected to the first electrical switch unit and can control the motor; by operating the operating component, an electrical signal for starting the first control unit is provided from the first electrical switch unit to the first control unit.

[0033] According to the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the twelfth aspect, since the first control unit is mounted, it can contribute to improved functionality.

[0034] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the battery holding device comprises: a battery holding portion, which is configured to be installed on a human-driven vehicle and includes a battery connecting portion for connecting a battery; and a second wireless communication portion, which is arranged on the battery holding portion; the battery connecting portion is capable of being loaded and unloaded to connect the battery, and the second wireless communication portion is capable of being loaded and unloaded to the battery holding portion.

[0035] According to the battery holding device according to the thirteenth aspect, since the second wireless communication unit is mounted, it can contribute to improved functionality.

[0036] In the battery holding device of a fourteenth aspect according to the thirteenth aspect, the battery connecting portion includes an electrical terminal electrically connected to the battery.

[0037] According to the battery holding device according to the fourteenth aspect, the battery and the battery connecting portion can be electrically connected.

[0038] In the fifteenth aspect of the battery holding device according to the thirteenth or fourteenth aspect, a plurality of the battery holding sections are provided, and the second wireless communication section is provided in at least one of the plurality of battery holding sections.

[0039] According to the battery holding device according to the fifteenth aspect, it is possible to contribute to improved functionality.

[0040] In the battery retaining device of the sixteenth aspect according to the fifteenth aspect, the battery includes a first end and a second end different from the first end, and the multiple battery retaining parts include: a first battery retaining part, which is connected to at least a part of the first end of the battery; and a second battery retaining part, which is connected to at least a part of the second end of the battery.

[0041] According to the battery holding device according to the sixteenth aspect, the battery can be appropriately held by the plurality of battery holding portions.

[0042] In the battery holder device according to a seventeenth aspect of any one of the thirteenth to sixteenth aspects, at least a portion of the second wireless communication unit is embedded in the battery holder.

[0043] According to the battery holder device according to the seventeenth aspect, at least a portion of the second wireless communication unit can be protected by the battery holder.

[0044] In the battery holding device according to an eighteenth aspect of any one of the thirteenth to seventeenth aspects, the battery holding portion further includes a second recess in which the second wireless communication portion can be at least partially disposed.

[0045] According to the battery holder device according to the eighteenth aspect, the second wireless communication unit can be appropriately arranged in the battery holder.

[0046] In the battery holding device of a nineteenth aspect according to the eighteenth aspect, the second recess includes a through hole.

[0047] According to the battery holder device according to the nineteenth aspect, the second wireless communication unit can be appropriately arranged in the battery holder.

[0048] In the battery holding device according to a twentieth aspect of any one of the thirteenth to seventeenth aspects, the battery holding portion further includes a storage space therein, and the second wireless communication portion is arranged in the storage space.

[0049] According to the battery holder device according to the twentieth aspect, the second wireless communication unit can be appropriately arranged in the battery holder.

[0050] In the battery retention device of aspect 21 according to any one of aspects 13 to 20, the second wireless communication unit wirelessly communicates with a third wireless communication unit, and the third wireless communication unit is provided on at least one of the human-powered vehicle operating device and the external device.

[0051] According to the battery holder device according to the twenty-first aspect, it is possible to omit an electric wire electrically connecting at least one of the operating device and the external device to the second wireless communication unit.

[0052] In the battery holding device of aspect 22 according to any one of aspects 13 to 21, there is also provided a locking mechanism, which is configured to be arranged on the battery holding portion and to limit the relative position of the battery and the battery holding portion when the battery is connected to the battery connecting portion.

[0053] According to the battery holding device according to the twenty-second aspect, the relative position of the battery and the battery holding portion can be restricted by the locking mechanism.

[0054] In the battery holding device according to the twenty-third aspect of the twenty-second aspect, the locking mechanism is configured to include a key insertion portion, and the restriction on the relative position of the battery and the battery holding portion is released by operating a key inserted into the key insertion portion.

[0055] According to the battery holding device according to the twenty-third aspect, the restriction on the relative position of the battery and the battery holding portion can be easily released.

[0056] In the battery retaining device of aspect 24 according to any one of aspects 13 to 23, there is also a second electrical switch unit, which is arranged in the battery retaining unit and is used to provide an electrical signal for starting a second control unit to the second control unit, and the second control unit controls the components mounted on the human-powered vehicle.

[0057] According to the twenty-fourth aspect of the battery holding device, the second electrical switch unit is mounted, thereby contributing to improved functionality. In addition, since the second electrical switch unit is close to the second control unit, the wire used to connect the second electrical switch unit and the second control unit can be shortened.

[0058] In the battery holding device of aspect 25 according to any one of aspects 13 to 24, the battery outputs electric power for driving a motor that assists in the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle.

[0059] According to the battery holding device of the twenty-fifth aspect, since the distance between the motor and the battery is short, when an electric wire is used to connect the motor and the battery, the electric wire can be shortened.

[0060] According to the twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, the battery holding device comprises: a battery holding portion, which is configured to be installed on a human-driven vehicle and includes a battery connecting portion for connecting a battery; and a second wireless communication portion, which is arranged in the battery holding portion; the battery outputs electricity for driving a motor, which assists in the propulsion of the human-driven vehicle.

[0061] According to the battery holding device according to the twenty-sixth aspect, since the second wireless communication unit is mounted, it can contribute to improved functionality.

[0062] According to the twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the battery holding device comprises: a plurality of battery holding parts, which are configured to be installed on a human-driven vehicle and include a battery connecting part for connecting the battery; and a second wireless communication part, which is arranged in the battery holding part; the battery includes a first end and a second end different from the first end, and the plurality of battery holding parts include: a first battery holding part, which is connected to at least a portion of the first end of the battery; and a second battery holding part, which is connected to at least a portion of the second end of the battery.

[0063] According to the battery holding device according to the twenty-seventh aspect, since the second wireless communication unit is mounted, it can contribute to improved functionality.

[0064] Effects of the Invention

[0065] The human-powered vehicle drive device and battery holding device according to the present invention can contribute to improved functionality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Figure 1 A side view of a human-powered vehicle including the human-powered vehicle drive device according to the first embodiment;

[0067] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A side view of a drive device for a human-powered vehicle;

[0068] Figure 3 for Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a drive device for a human-powered vehicle;

[0069] Figure 4 To show Figure 2 A block diagram showing the connection between the drive device and various components of a human-driven vehicle;

[0070] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a battery assembly including a battery holding device according to a second embodiment;

[0071] Figure 6 for Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of a battery assembly;

[0072] Figure 7 To show Figure 5 A block diagram of the connection between the battery holding device and various components;

[0073] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of a portion of a battery module according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] (First embodiment)

[0075] Reference Figure 1 , a human-powered vehicle A including a human-powered vehicle drive device 10 is described. Here, a human-powered vehicle refers to a vehicle that uses human power at least in part as the motive force for travel, including vehicles that use human power assisted by electricity. Vehicles that use only a motive force other than human power are not included in human-powered vehicles. In particular, vehicles that use only an internal combustion engine as the motive force are not included in human-powered vehicles. Generally, human-powered vehicles are assumed to be small and lightweight vehicles, and are assumed to be vehicles that do not require a driver's license to travel on public roads. The human-powered vehicle A shown in the figure is a bicycle (e-bike) that includes a human-powered vehicle drive device 10 that uses electrical energy to assist the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle A. Specifically, the human-powered vehicle A shown in the figure is a touring bike (trekking bike). The human-powered vehicle A also includes a frame A1, a front fork A2, a front wheel WF, a rear wheel WR, a handlebar H, and a transmission system B.

[0076] The transmission system B is configured as a chain drive type. The transmission system B includes a crank C, a front sprocket D1, a rear sprocket D2, and a chain D3. The crank C includes: a crank shaft C1, which is rotatably supported on the frame A1; and a pair of crank arms C2, which are respectively provided at the two ends of the crank shaft C1. A pedal PD is mounted on the front end of each crank arm C2 so that it can rotate. It should be noted that the transmission system B can be selected from any type, and can be a belt drive type or a drive shaft drive type.

[0077] A front sprocket D1 is mounted on the crankshaft C1 so as to rotate integrally with the crankshaft C1. A rear sprocket D2 is mounted on the hub HR of the rear wheel WR. A chain D3 is mounted between the front sprocket D1 and the rear sprocket D2. The driving force applied to the pedals PD by a user of the human-powered vehicle A (hereinafter referred to as "human-powered driving force") is transmitted to the rear wheel WR via the front sprocket D1, chain D3, and rear sprocket D2.

[0078] The human-powered vehicle A further includes a plurality of components CO. The plurality of components CO include at least one of a human-powered vehicle drive device 10 equipped with a motor 12, a brake device BD, a transmission T, a suspension SU, and an adjustable seat post ASP. The brake device BD, the transmission T, the suspension SU, and the adjustable seat post ASP can be mechanically driven or electrically driven by operating the corresponding operating devices.

[0079] The braking device BD includes braking devices BD corresponding to the number of wheels. In this embodiment, the braking device BD corresponding to the front wheel WF and the braking device BD corresponding to the rear wheel WR are provided on the human-driven vehicle A. The two braking devices BD have the same structure. The braking device BD is, for example, a rim brake device that brakes the wheel rim R of the human-driven vehicle A. In one example, the corresponding braking device BD is driven according to the operation of the brake lever BL (operating device) provided on the handlebar H. It should be noted that the braking device BD can be a disc brake device that brakes the disc brake rotor (not shown) mounted on the human-driven vehicle A.

[0080] The transmission T includes at least one of a front derailleur TF and a rear derailleur TR. The front derailleur TF is located near the front sprocket D1. As the front derailleur TF is driven, the front sprocket D1, to which the chain D3 is attached, is changed, thereby changing the speed ratio of the human-driven vehicle A. The rear derailleur TR is located at the rear end A3 of the frame A1. As the rear derailleur TR is driven, the rear sprocket D2, to which the chain D3 is attached, is changed, thereby changing the speed ratio of the human-driven vehicle A. The transmission T can be configured as an internal type, such as one with an internal gear hub. The suspension SU includes at least one of a front suspension SF and a rear suspension (not shown). The front suspension SF is actuated to reduce ground impact on the front wheel WF. The rear suspension is actuated to reduce ground impact on the rear wheel WR. The adjustable seat post ASP is actuated to change the height of the seat S relative to the frame A1.

[0081] The human-powered vehicle A also includes a battery assembly BC configured to supply power to the electrical components mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The battery assembly BC is mounted, for example, on the down tube A4 of the vehicle frame A1. The battery assembly BC includes a battery BT. The electrically driven components in the plurality of modules CO are operated, for example, by power supplied by the battery BT or by a dedicated power supply (not shown) mounted on each module CO.

[0082] Reference Figure 2 , the structure of the drive device 10 for a human-powered vehicle will be described.

[0083] The human-powered vehicle drive device 10 is provided on the vehicle frame A1 (see FIG. 1 ) so as to be supported by the crankshaft C1, for example. Figure 1 ). The drive device 10 for a human-powered vehicle includes: a motor 12, which assists the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle A; and a first electrical switch unit 14, which includes an operating component 16. The first electrical switch unit 14 is not included in the remote operating device, for example. In one example, the first electrical switch unit 14 is electrically connected to the motor 12 by an electric wire (not shown). The first electrical switch unit 14 is configured to output an electrical signal for changing the control state of the motor 12. The control state of the motor 12 includes, for example, at least one of turning on and off related to the drive of the motor 12, and the driving force of the motor 12 relative to the human-powered driving force. When the turning on and off related to the drive of the motor 12 is changed, the turning on and off of the power supply of the drive device 10 for a human-powered vehicle is changed. The turning on and off related to the drive of the motor 12 may not be associated with the turning on and off of the power supply of the drive device 10 for a human-powered vehicle. When the driving force of the motor 12 relative to the human-powered driving force is changed, the assist mode of the drive device 10 for a human-powered vehicle is changed. The driving force of the motor 12 is transmitted through, for example, a reducer 20 (see Figure 4 ) etc. are transmitted to the transmission system B. In one example, the driving force of the motor 12 is transmitted to the crankshaft C1 or the front sprocket D1.

[0084] The drive device 10 for a human-powered vehicle further includes a base 22, which is provided with at least one of the motor 12 and the reducer 20. In one example, the base 22 is a housing that houses the motor 12 and the reducer 20. The base 22 can be a single component with the frame A1, or can be integrally formed with the frame A1, or can be formed separately from the frame A1. The base 22 includes an insertion portion 22A configured to insert the crankshaft C1. The insertion portion 22A is a through hole that extends through the outer periphery 24 of the base 22 in the width direction of the human-powered vehicle A.

[0085] The first electrical switch portion 14 is provided on the base 22. The first electrical switch portion 14 is provided on the base 22 as shown in the first example or the second example below. In the first example, the base 22 includes a first mounting portion 26 (see Figure 3), the first mounting portion 26 is capable of mounting the first electrical switch unit 14. Specifically, the first electrical switch unit 14 is mounted to the first mounting portion 26 of the base 22. The first mounting portion 26 is provided on the outer periphery 24 of the base 22. In the second example, the first electrical switch unit 14 is integral with the base 22. In this embodiment, the first electrical switch unit 14 is mounted to the first mounting portion 26 as described in the first example.

[0086] At least a portion of the operating member 16 is exposed outside the base 22. The operating member 16 is disposed on the outer periphery 24 of the base 22. In one example, the first electrical switch 14 is mounted to the first mounting portion 26 of the base 22 such that at least the manually operable portion of the operating member 16 is exposed outside the base 22. In this embodiment, the operating member 16 is a push button switch. It should be noted that the operating member 16 may also be another type of switch, such as a slide switch or a rocker switch.

[0087] like Figure 3 As shown, the first electrical switch unit 14 also includes a configuration component 18, which has a first recess 18A capable of at least partially configuring the operating component 16. The first mounting portion 26 includes, for example: a recess 26A, which can configure the configuration component 18; and a mounting member (omitted from the figure), which mounts the configuration component 18 to the recess 26A. The operating component 16 is configured in the first recess 18A, and the configuration component 18 is mounted on the recess 26A using the mounting member, thereby forming a state in which the first electrical switch unit 14 is mounted on the first mounting portion 26. When the configuration component 18 is mounted on the recess 26A by engaging the configuration component 18 with the recess 26A, the mounting member of the first mounting portion 26 can also be omitted. In the state in which the first electrical switch unit 14 is mounted on the first mounting portion 26, the operating component 16 and the first control unit 32 (see Figure 4 ) electrical connection.

[0088] The human-powered vehicle drive device 10 further includes a first wireless communication unit 30, which is disposed on the base 22 and is capable of transmitting and receiving wireless signals. The first wireless communication unit 30 may be detachably or non-detachably disposed on the base 22. In the embodiment where the first wireless communication unit 30 is detachably disposed on the base 22, the base 22 is rarely damaged when the first wireless communication unit 30 is removed from the base 22, allowing the first wireless communication unit 30 to be attached and detached repeatedly. Therefore, even if the first wireless communication unit 30 fails due to a malfunction or other reason, it can be easily replaced.

[0089] The first wireless communication unit 30 is provided on the base 22, for example, as shown in any one of the third to fifth examples below. In the third example, the base 22 includes a second mounting portion 28, and the second mounting portion 28 is capable of mounting the first wireless communication unit 30. That is, the first wireless communication unit 30 is mounted on the second mounting portion 28 of the base 22. The second mounting portion 28 is mounted on the outer peripheral portion 24 of the base 22. In the fourth example, the first wireless communication unit 30 is integrated with the base 22. In the fifth example, the first wireless communication unit 30 is embedded in the base 22 in a manner configured in the space within the base 22. In this embodiment, the first wireless communication unit 30 is mounted on the second mounting portion 28 as shown in the third example above. It should be noted that the first electrical switch unit 14 and the first wireless communication unit 30 can also be provided on the base 22 as a unit.

[0090] The first wireless communication unit 30 is mounted on the second mounting portion 28 of the base 22, for example, in such a manner that at least a portion thereof is exposed to the outside of the base 22. The second mounting portion 28 includes, for example, a recess 28A in which the first wireless communication unit 30 can be arranged, and a mounting member (not shown) for mounting the first wireless communication unit 30 on the recess 28A. By mounting the first wireless communication unit 30 on the recess 28A using the mounting member, a state is formed in which the first wireless communication unit 30 is mounted on the second mounting portion 28. When the first wireless communication unit 30 is mounted on the recess 28A by engaging the first wireless communication unit 30 with the recess 28A, the mounting member of the second mounting portion 28 can also be omitted. In the state in which the first wireless communication unit 30 is mounted on the second mounting portion 28, the first wireless communication unit 30 is electrically connected to the first control unit 32 described later.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, the human-powered vehicle drive device 10 further includes a first control unit 32, which is electrically connected to the first electrical switch unit 14 and capable of controlling the motor 12. The first control unit 32 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The first control unit 32 is housed within the base 22, for example. By operating the operating member 16, an electrical signal for activating the first control unit 32 is provided from the first electrical switch unit 14 to the first control unit 32. In one example, the first control unit 32 controls the motor 12 to change the control state of the motor 12 based on the electrical signal generated by the operation of the operating member 16.

[0092] The first electrical switch unit 14 is configured to output an electrical signal for causing the first wireless communication unit 30 to perform wireless communication. The first wireless communication unit 30 is configured to perform wireless communication with a wireless unit 34, for example. The wireless unit 34 includes a wireless communication unit (not shown) that can transmit or receive wireless signals according to the operation of the first electrical switch unit 14. The wireless unit 34 includes, for example, a brake device BD, a transmission T, a suspension SU, an adjustable seat post ASP, a cycle computer SC (see Figure 1 ), and at least one of an external device (omitted from the figure).

[0093] For example, the first electrical switch unit 14 outputs an electrical signal to the first control unit 32 for changing the control state of the motor 12 in response to a first operation of the operating member 16, and outputs an electrical signal to the first control unit 32 for causing the first wireless communication unit 30 to perform wireless communication in response to a second operation of the operating member 16. The first control unit 32 controls the motor 12 so as to change the control state of the motor 12 when receiving the electrical signal based on the first operation of the operating member 16. When receiving the electrical signal based on the second operation of the operating member 16, the first control unit 32 transmits a wireless signal from the first wireless communication unit 30 to the wireless unit 34, thereby controlling the wireless unit 34. It should be noted that the first wireless communication unit 30 may also be configured to receive wireless signals transmitted from the wireless unit 34.

[0094] (Second embodiment)

[0095] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The battery pack 40 of the second embodiment will be described. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0096] like Figure 5 As shown, the human-powered vehicle A includes a battery assembly 40 configured to supply power to electrical components mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The battery assembly 40 is, for example, mounted on the down tube A4 of the vehicle frame A1. The battery assembly 40 includes a battery BT and a battery retaining device 42 for retaining the battery BT. The battery BT outputs power for driving the motor 12, which assists in propulsion of the human-powered vehicle A. It should be noted that the human-powered vehicle drive device 10 of the second embodiment may also omit at least one of the first electrical switch unit 14, the first wireless communication unit 30, and the first control unit 32.

[0097] The battery holder 42 includes a battery holder 44 that is mountable on a human-powered vehicle A and includes a battery connector 46 for connecting to a battery BT; and a second wireless communication unit 50 provided on the battery holder 44. The battery holder 44 is, for example, fixed to the down tube A4 of the human-powered vehicle A. The battery connector 46 is, for example, provided on a portion of the battery holder 44 that faces the battery BT. The battery connector 46 is detachably connected to the battery BT.

[0098] The battery holding device 42 includes a plurality of battery holding portions 44. The battery BT includes a first end portion BT1 and a second end portion BT2 different from the first end portion BT1. The plurality of battery holding portions 44 include: a first battery holding portion 44A connected to at least a portion of the first end portion BT1 of the battery BT; and a second battery holding portion 44B connected to at least a portion of the second end portion BT2 of the battery BT. The first battery holding portion 44A is, for example, provided on the front side of the human-driven vehicle A in the down tube A4 of the human-driven vehicle A. The second battery holding portion 44B is, for example, provided on the rear side of the human-driven vehicle A in the down tube A4 of the human-driven vehicle A. It should be noted that the first battery holding portion 44A may also be provided on the rear side of the human-driven vehicle A, and the second battery holding portion 44B may also be provided on the front side of the human-driven vehicle A.

[0099] The battery connection portion 46 includes an electrical terminal 46A (see Figure 6 ), the electrical terminal 46A is electrically connected to the battery BT. Specifically, the electrical terminal 46A is provided at least one of the battery connection portion 46 of the first battery holding portion 44A and the battery connection portion 46 of the second battery holding portion 44B. In this embodiment, the electrical terminal 46A is provided at the battery connection portion 46 of the second battery holding portion 44B (refer to Figure 6 The battery BT further includes a connector (not shown) electrically connected to the electrical terminal 46A. In this embodiment, the connector is provided at the second end portion BT2 of the battery BT.

[0100] The second wireless communication unit 50 is configured to be able to send or receive wireless signals. The second wireless communication unit 50 is provided in at least one of the plurality of battery holding units 44. In this embodiment, the second wireless communication unit 50 is provided in the first battery holding unit 44A. In one example, the second wireless communication unit 50 is connected to the second control unit 54 (see FIG. 1 ) described later via a wire (not shown). Figure 7) is electrically connected. In one example, the second wireless communication unit 50 is electrically connected to the electrical terminal 46A of the second battery retaining unit 44B via an electric wire (not shown). The second wireless communication unit 50 is detachably provided on the battery retaining unit 44. That is, the second wireless communication unit 50 is detachably provided on the first battery retaining unit 44A. In the case where the second wireless communication unit 50 is detachably provided on the battery retaining unit 44, the battery retaining unit 44 is hardly damaged when the second wireless communication unit 50 is removed from the battery retaining unit 44, so the loading and unloading of the second wireless communication unit 50 can be repeated arbitrarily. Therefore, even if the second wireless communication unit 50 fails due to a malfunction or the like, it can be easily replaced. It should be noted that the second wireless communication unit 50 may also be non-detachably provided on the battery retaining unit 44.

[0101] like Figure 6 As shown, the second wireless communication unit 50 is provided in the battery holder 44, for example, as shown in the sixth or seventh example below. In the sixth example, at least a portion of the second wireless communication unit 50 is embedded in the battery holder 44. The battery holder 44 also includes a third mounting portion 48, which is capable of mounting the second wireless communication unit 50. That is, the second wireless communication unit 50 is mounted on the third mounting portion 48. The third mounting portion 48 is provided on the outer peripheral portion 44C of the battery holder 44. The battery holder 44 also includes a second recess 48A, which is capable of at least partially configuring the second wireless communication unit 50. The second recess 48A is included in the third mounting portion 48. The second recess 48A includes a through-hole 48B. In this case, the second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the through-hole 48B in such a manner that at least a portion of it is embedded in the battery holder 44. The third mounting portion 48 may further include a mounting member (not shown) that mounts the second wireless communication unit 50 in the through-hole 48B. In the seventh example, the second wireless communication unit 50 is integrated with the battery holder 44.

[0102] In this embodiment, as shown in the sixth example above, the second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the through-hole 48B so that at least a portion of it is embedded in the battery retaining portion 44. The through-hole 48B is provided in the first battery retaining portion 44A. In other words, the second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the through-hole 48B so that at least a portion of it is embedded in the first battery retaining portion 44A. For example, the second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the through-hole 48B of the first battery retaining portion 44A so that at least a portion of it is exposed to the outside of the first battery retaining portion 44A. When the second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the through-hole 48B, the second wireless communication unit 50 is electrically connected to the second control unit 54. It should be noted that the second wireless communication unit 50 may also be provided in the second battery retaining portion 44B.

[0103] The battery holder 42 also includes a locking mechanism 52. The locking mechanism 52 is provided on the battery holder 44 and is configured to restrict the relative position of the battery BT and the battery holder 44 when the battery BT is connected to the battery connection portion 46. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 52 is provided on the first battery holder 44A. The locking mechanism 52 includes a key insertion portion 52A, which releases the restriction on the relative position of the battery BT and the battery holder 44 by inserting a key K into the key insertion portion 52A. The key insertion portion 52A is provided, for example, on the outer peripheral portion 44C of the first battery holder 44A so as to be exposed to the outside of the first battery holder 44A. In one example, the locking mechanism 52 also includes an engaging portion 52B. This engaging portion 52B engages with an engaged portion BT3 provided on the first end portion BT1 of the battery BT to restrict the relative position of the battery BT and the battery holder 44, and is displaced to release the restriction on the relative position of the battery BT and the battery holder 44 in response to the operation of the key K inserted into the key insertion portion 52A. The lock mechanism 52 may be an electronic key (not shown), and may be actuated by a wireless signal received by the second wireless communication unit 50. It should be noted that the lock mechanism 52 may also be provided in the second battery holding portion 44B.

[0104] The battery holding device 42 also has a second electrical switch unit 56. The second electrical switch unit 56 is provided in the battery holding unit 44, and provides an electrical signal for starting the second control unit 54 to the second control unit 54, wherein the second control unit 54 controls the component CO mounted on the human-driven vehicle A. The second electrical switch unit 56 is not included in the remote operation device, for example. In one example, the second electrical switch unit 56 is electrically connected to the second control unit 54 via an electric wire (not shown in the figure). In one example, the second electrical switch unit 56 is electrically connected to the electrical terminal 46A of the second battery holding unit 44B via an electric wire (not shown in the figure). The second electrical switch unit 56 is configured to output an electrical signal for starting the second control unit 54. In the present embodiment, the second electrical switch unit 56 is provided in the first battery holding unit 44A. It should be noted that the second electrical switch unit 56 may also have a structure that is substantially the same as that of the first electrical switch unit 14.

[0105] The second electrical switch unit 56 is provided in the battery holder 44, for example, as shown in the eighth or ninth example below. In the eighth example, the second electrical switch unit 56 is integral with the battery holder 44. In the ninth example, the battery holder 44 includes a fourth mounting portion (not shown) to which the second electrical switch unit 56 can be mounted. That is, the second electrical switch unit 56 is mounted on the fourth mounting portion of the battery holder 44. The fourth mounting portion is provided on the outer peripheral portion 44C of the battery holder 44. The fourth mounting portion includes, for example: a recess in which the second electrical switch unit 56 can be disposed; and a mounting member (not shown) that can mount the second electrical switch unit 56 in the recess. When the second electrical switch unit 56 is mounted in the recess by engaging with the recess, the mounting member of the fourth mounting portion can also be omitted. It should be noted that the second electrical switch unit 56 and the second wireless communication unit 50 can also be provided as a unit in the battery holder 44.

[0106] In this embodiment, the second electrical switch 56 is integrally formed with the battery holder 44, as described in the eighth example above. Specifically, the second electrical switch 56 is integrally formed with the first battery holder 44A. For example, the second electrical switch 56 is integrally formed with the first battery holder 44A, such that at least a portion of the second electrical switch 56 is exposed outside the first battery holder 44A. It should be noted that the second electrical switch 56 may also be provided in the second battery holder 44B.

[0107] like Figure 7 As shown, the second wireless communication unit 50 wirelessly communicates with the third wireless communication unit 58, which is provided in at least one of the operating device OD and the external device ED mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The operating device OD includes, for example, operating devices corresponding to various components CO. In one example, the operating device OD includes an operating device for driving the motor 12 of the human-powered vehicle drive device 10. In this case, the operating device OD can be provided on the handlebar H or on the cycle computer SC. The external device ED includes at least one of a smart device and a personal computer (not shown). The smart device includes at least one of a wearable device such as a smart watch, a smartphone, and a tablet computer. In one example, the second wireless communication unit 50 receives a wireless signal transmitted from the third wireless communication unit 58 and transmits an electrical signal corresponding to the received wireless signal to the second control unit 54. The second wireless communication unit 50 can also be configured to transmit a wireless signal based on the operation of the second electrical switch unit 56. In this case, preferably, the second electrical switch unit 56 is configured to output an electrical signal for changing the control state of the motor 12.

[0108] The battery holder 42 also includes a second control unit 54 capable of controlling the components CO mounted on the human-powered vehicle A. The second control unit 54 is a CPU or MPU. The second control unit 54 is housed within the battery holder 44, for example. In this embodiment, the second control unit 54 is housed within the first battery holder 44A. In one example, the second control unit 54 controls the various components CO based on electrical signals received from the second wireless communication unit 50.

[0109] (Variation)

[0110] The descriptions of each of the above embodiments are provided as examples of possible implementations of the human-powered vehicle drive device and battery retaining device according to the present invention and are not intended to limit the implementations. The human-powered vehicle drive device and battery retaining device according to the present invention may employ, for example, the following variations of the above embodiments, as well as combinations of at least two mutually consistent variations. In the following variations, portions common to the respective embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals as those in the respective embodiments and are not further described.

[0111] The configuration of the second wireless communication unit 50 can be changed arbitrarily. In one example, Figure 8 As shown, at least a portion of the second wireless communication unit 50 is embedded in the battery holding unit 44. The battery holding unit 44 includes a storage space HS inside. The second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the storage space HS. In this case, the second wireless communication unit 50 is configured in the storage space HS in such a way that the entire battery holding unit 44 is embedded. Figure 8 In the illustrated example, the storage space HS is provided in the first battery holding portion 44A. That is, the second wireless communication unit 50 is disposed in the storage space HS so as to be entirely embedded in the first battery holding portion 44A.

[0112] The structure of the battery holder 44 can be modified arbitrarily. In the first example, one of the first battery holder 44A and the second battery holder 44B can be omitted from the plurality of battery holders 44. In the second example, the plurality of battery holders 44 further includes at least one battery holder (not shown) in place of or in addition to the first battery holder 44A and the second battery holder 44B.

[0113] The structure of the battery holder 42 can be modified arbitrarily. In a first example, at least one of the second wireless communication unit 50 and the second electrical switch unit 56 is located in the second battery holder 44B. In a second example, the electrical terminal 46A is located in the first battery holder 44A. In a third example, at least one of the second wireless communication unit 50 and the second electrical switch unit 56 is located in the battery holder 44A or the battery holder 44B, among the plurality of battery holders 44, that has the electrical terminal 46A. In a fourth example, the locking mechanism 52 is located in the second battery holder 44B. In a fifth example, at least one of the locking mechanism 52, the second control unit 54, and the second electrical switch unit 56 is omitted from the battery holder 42.

[0114] The structure of the human-powered vehicle driving device 10 of the first embodiment can be modified arbitrarily. In one example, at least one of the first wireless communication unit 30 and the first control unit 32 is omitted from the human-powered vehicle driving device 10 .

[0115] The type of human-powered vehicle A can be changed arbitrarily. In a first example, the human-powered vehicle A is a road bike, a mountain bike, an off-road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, or a recumbent bike. In a second example, the human-powered vehicle A is a scooter.

[0116] Explanation of symbols

[0117] 10…Drive device for human-powered vehicle, 12…Motor, 14…First electrical switch unit, 16…Operating member, 18…Arrangement member, 18A…First recess, 20…Reducer, 22…Base, 24…Outer periphery, 26…First mounting portion, 28…Second mounting portion, 30…First wireless communication unit, 32…First control unit, 42…Battery holder, 44…Battery holder, 44A…First battery holder, 44B…Second battery holder, 46…Battery connecting portion, 46A…Electrical terminal, 48A…Second recess, 48B…Through hole, 50…Second wireless communication unit, 52…Lock mechanism, 52A…Key insertion portion, 54…Second control unit, 56…Second electrical switch unit, 58…Third wireless communication unit, A…Human-powered vehicle, BT…Battery, BT1…First end portion, BT2…Second end portion, CO…Assembly, ED…External device, HS…Storage space, K…Key, OD…Operating device

Claims

1. A battery holding device comprising: a battery holding portion configured to be mountable on a human-powered vehicle and including a battery connecting portion to which a battery is connected; and a second wireless communication unit provided in the battery holding unit; The battery connecting portion is detachably connected to the battery. The second wireless communication unit is detachably mounted on the third mounting portion of the battery holding portion. The battery holding device further includes a second electrical switch portion, which is provided on a fourth mounting portion of the battery holding portion and is used to provide an electrical signal for activating a second control portion to the second control portion. The second control portion is provided on the battery holding portion and is connected to the second electrical switch portion via an electric wire. The second control portion controls components mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The second wireless communication unit is configured to transmit a wireless signal in response to an operation of the second electrical switch unit. The third mounting portion is provided on the outer periphery of the battery holding portion, and the third mounting portion includes a through hole, and the second wireless communication portion is configured in a manner such that at least a portion thereof is embedded in the battery holding portion. The fourth mounting portion is provided on the outer periphery of the battery holding portion, and the fourth mounting portion includes a recessed portion in which the second electrical switch portion can be disposed. The battery connecting portion includes an electrical terminal electrically connected to the battery. The second electrical switch portion is electrically connected to the electrical terminal via an electric wire.

2. The battery holding device according to claim 1, wherein: A plurality of the battery holding portions are provided, The second wireless communication unit is provided in at least one of the plurality of battery holding units.

3. The battery holding device according to claim 2, wherein: The battery includes a first end and a second end different from the first end, The plurality of battery holding portions include: a first battery holding portion connected to at least a portion of the first end portion of the battery; and a second battery holding portion connected to at least a portion of the second end portion of the battery. The second wireless communication unit is arranged on one of the first battery holding unit and the second battery holding unit, and the electrical terminal is arranged on the other of the first battery holding unit and the second battery holding unit.

4. The battery holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: At least a portion of the second wireless communication unit is embedded in the battery holding unit.

5. The battery holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The battery holding portion further includes a second recess in which the second wireless communication portion can be at least partially disposed. The battery holding device according to claim 5 , wherein: The second recess includes a through hole.

7. The battery holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The battery holding portion further includes a storage space therein. The second wireless communication unit is disposed in the storage space.

8. The battery holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The second wireless communication unit performs wireless communication with a third wireless communication unit provided in at least one of an operating device mounted on the human-powered vehicle and an external device.

9. The battery holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: A locking mechanism is further provided, the locking mechanism being configured to be provided on the battery holding portion and to restrict a relative position between the battery and the battery holding portion when the battery is connected to the battery connecting portion.

10. The battery holding device according to claim 9, wherein: The lock mechanism includes a key insertion portion, and is configured to release the restriction on the relative position of the battery and the battery holding portion by operating a key inserted into the key insertion portion.

11. The battery holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The battery outputs electricity for driving a motor that assists in propulsion of the human-powered vehicle.

12. A battery holding device comprising: a battery holding portion configured to be mountable on a human-powered vehicle and including a battery connecting portion to which a battery is connected; and a second wireless communication unit, which is provided on the third mounting portion of the battery holding portion; The battery outputs electricity for driving a motor that assists in the propulsion of the human-powered vehicle; The battery holding device further includes a second electrical switch portion, which is provided on a fourth mounting portion of the battery holding portion and is configured to provide an electrical signal for activating a second control portion to the second control portion. The second control portion is provided on the battery holding portion and is connected to the second electrical switch portion via an electrical wire, and the second control portion controls components mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The second wireless communication unit is configured to transmit a wireless signal in response to an operation of the second electrical switch unit. The third mounting portion is provided on the outer periphery of the battery holding portion, and the third mounting portion includes a through hole, and the second wireless communication portion is configured in a manner such that at least a portion thereof is embedded in the battery holding portion. The fourth mounting portion is provided on the outer periphery of the battery holding portion, and the fourth mounting portion includes a recessed portion in which the second electrical switch portion can be disposed. The battery connecting portion includes an electrical terminal electrically connected to the battery. The second electrical switch portion is electrically connected to the electrical terminal via an electric wire.

13. A battery holding device comprising: a plurality of battery holding portions configured to be mountable on a human-powered vehicle and including battery connecting portions to which the batteries are connected; and a second wireless communication unit, which is provided on the third mounting portion of the battery holding portion; The battery includes a first end and a second end different from the first end, The plurality of battery holding portions include: a first battery holding portion connected to at least a portion of the first end portion of the battery; and a second battery holding portion connected to at least a portion of the second end portion of the battery; The battery holding device further includes a second electrical switch portion, which is provided on a fourth mounting portion of the battery holding portion and is configured to provide an electrical signal for activating a second control portion to the second control portion. The second control portion is provided on the battery holding portion and is connected to the second electrical switch portion via an electrical wire, and the second control portion controls components mounted on the human-powered vehicle. The second wireless communication unit is configured to transmit a wireless signal in response to an operation of the second electrical switch unit. The third mounting portion is provided on the outer periphery of the battery holding portion, and the third mounting portion includes a through hole, and the second wireless communication portion is configured in a manner such that at least a portion thereof is embedded in the battery holding portion. The fourth mounting portion is provided on the outer periphery of the battery holding portion, and the fourth mounting portion includes a recessed portion in which the second electrical switch portion can be disposed. The battery connecting portion includes an electrical terminal electrically connected to the battery. The second electrical switch portion is electrically connected to the electrical terminal via an electric wire.

Images