Assembly and gear for human-powered vehicles

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of can inhibit life reduction's human-powered vehicle's assembly and gear.The human-powered vehicle's assembly includes: shell;And installation part, it is configured to be provided in shell, is installed in the support portion of human-powered vehicle by fastener, installation part includes: metal base;Metal connecting portion, it is configured to be provided in base and be connected with fastener;And intermediate portion, it is provided between connecting portion and base, base includes the first material with first standard electrode potential, connecting portion includes the second material with second standard electrode potential, intermediate portion is formed by third material or fourth material with electric insulating property, the third material has third standard electrode potential, and the difference between third standard electrode potential and first standard electrode potential and the difference between third standard electrode potential and second standard electrode potential is less than the difference between first standard electrode potential and second standard electrode potential respectively.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the patent filed on December 28, 2020, with patent application number 202011580464.6 and invention titled "Components and Gears for Human-Powered Vehicles". Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a component and gear for a human-powered vehicle. Background Technology

[0004] For example, the component for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a housing. For example, the component for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes gears.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-24700 Summary of the Invention

[0008] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a component and gear for a human-powered vehicle that can suppress the reduction of lifespan.

[0009] The component according to the first aspect of this application is a component for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a housing; and a mounting portion configured to be disposed on the housing and mounted to a support portion of the human-powered vehicle by fasteners, the mounting portion comprising: a metal base; a metal connecting portion configured to be disposed on the base and connected to the fasteners; and an intermediate portion disposed between the connecting portion and the base, the base comprising a first material having a first standard electrode potential, the connecting portion comprising a second material having a second standard electrode potential, the intermediate portion being formed of a third material or an electrically insulating fourth material, the third material having a third standard electrode potential, and the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the first standard electrode potential and the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential being respectively less than the difference between the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential.

[0010] According to the component of the first aspect, since the intermediate portion includes a third or fourth material, galvanic corrosion caused by a difference in material between at least one of the fasteners and the support portion of the manually driven vehicle and the metal base is less likely to occur. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the reduction of component life.

[0011] In the components of the second aspect of the first aspect of this application, the first standard electrode potential is different from the second standard electrode potential.

[0012] According to the second component, the material of the base can be different from the material of the connecting part.

[0013] In the components according to the first, second, or third aspect of this application, the intermediate portion is non-removably disposed on the connecting portion.

[0014] According to the components of the third aspect, the middle part can be non-detachably provided in the connecting part.

[0015] In the components of the fourth aspect according to any one of the first to third aspects of this application, the intermediate portion is formed of the fourth material, which includes a metal oxide.

[0016] According to the components of the fourth aspect, the intermediate part can be appropriately formed using metal oxides.

[0017] In the components of the fifth aspect of the fourth aspect of this application, the second material comprises an aluminum alloy, and the metal oxide comprises aluminum oxide.

[0018] According to the components of the fifth aspect, the intermediate part can be appropriately formed with alumina.

[0019] In the components according to the fourth or fifth aspect or the sixth aspect of this application, the thickness of the intermediate portion is more than 1 micrometer and less than 30 micrometers.

[0020] According to the components in the sixth aspect, it is possible to set an intermediate part of 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less.

[0021] In the seventh aspect of the first or second aspect of this application, the intermediate portion is formed by a component different from the connecting portion.

[0022] Based on the components of the seventh aspect, the intermediate part can be constructed using the most suitable materials.

[0023] In the component according to the seventh aspect and the eighth aspect of this application, the intermediate portion is detachably provided on the connecting portion, and the bonding force between the intermediate portion and the base portion is greater than the bonding force between the intermediate portion and the connecting portion.

[0024] According to the components in the eighth aspect, the bonding force between the intermediate part and the base can be set to be greater than the bonding force between the intermediate part and the connecting part. Therefore, if a force is applied to move the connecting part while the fastener is connected to the connecting part, the connecting part can be moved without causing relative movement of the intermediate part relative to the mounting part. By moving the connecting part, the shaking that occurs when the mounting part is mounted on the support part of a manually driven vehicle can be suppressed. Since the intermediate part does not move relative to the mounting part, the electrical characteristics in both the intermediate part and the mounting part are stable.

[0025] In the ninth aspect of any one of the first to eighth aspects of this application, the connecting portion and the intermediate portion are non-removably provided in the base.

[0026] According to the components in the ninth aspect, since the connecting part and the intermediate part do not move relative to the base, the electrical characteristics of the connecting part, the intermediate part, and the mounting part are stable.

[0027] In the component of the tenth aspect of any one of the first to third aspects and the seventh to ninth aspects of this application, the intermediate portion comprises rubber or resin.

[0028] According to the components of aspect ten, the intermediate part can be appropriately formed with rubber or resin.

[0029] In the eleventh aspect of the component according to any one of the first to ninth aspects of this application, the base has a hole, and at least a portion of the connecting portion and at least a portion of the intermediate portion are disposed in the hole.

[0030] According to the component of the eleventh aspect, at least a portion of the connecting portion and at least a portion of the intermediate portion can be disposed in the hole of the base portion.

[0031] In the 12th aspect of the eleventh aspect of this application, the intermediate portion is pressed into the hole.

[0032] According to the twelfth aspect of the component, the intermediate part can be connected to the base by pressing the intermediate part into the hole.

[0033] In the component according to the eleventh or thirteenth aspect of the present application, at least a portion of the connecting portion is formed in a cylindrical shape, and at least a portion of the intermediate portion covers at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of at least a portion of the connecting portion.

[0034] According to the component of the thirteenth aspect, since at least a portion of the intermediate portion covers at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of at least a portion of the connecting portion, the outer peripheral surface of at least a portion of the connecting portion is not exposed.

[0035] In the component according to the thirteenth aspect and the fourteenth aspect of the present application, at least a portion of the intermediate portion is formed in a cylindrical shape, and at least one of knurling that contacts the base and a protrusion that contacts the base is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the intermediate portion.

[0036] According to the components of the fourteenth aspect, the relative movement between the intermediate portion and the base portion can be restricted by at least one of knurling and protrusions.

[0037] In the component according to the fourteenth aspect and the fifteenth aspect of this application, at least one of the knurling that contacts the base and the protrusion that contacts the base is located at a position away from the opening of the hole.

[0038] According to the component in aspect fifteen, it is possible to suppress the load applied to the portion near the opening of the hole in the mounting section.

[0039] In the components according to the fourteenth or fifteenth aspect of this application, at least one of the knurling and the protrusion has a first contact portion and a second contact portion, the first contact portion and the second contact portion being arranged in a manner that is spaced apart in the extension direction of the hole.

[0040] According to the components of the sixteenth aspect, at multiple locations along the extension direction of the hole, the intermediate portion contacts the base, thereby stably mounting the intermediate portion to the base.

[0041] In the component of the seventeenth aspect according to any one of the eleventh to sixteenth aspects of this application, the intermediate portion is bonded to the base portion by an adhesive disposed in the hole.

[0042] According to the components in the seventeenth aspect, the bonding force between the intermediate part and the base is improved.

[0043] In the component according to the sixteenth aspect of the present application, the intermediate portion is bonded to the base portion by an adhesive disposed in the hole, at least a portion of which is disposed between the first contact portion and the second contact portion.

[0044] According to the components of the eighteenth aspect, by disposing at least a portion of the adhesive between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, it is possible to suppress the outflow of adhesive from the hole during manufacturing.

[0045] In the component of the nineteenth aspect according to any one of aspects thirteen to eighteen of this application, knurling is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the connecting portion to contact the intermediate portion.

[0046] According to the component of the nineteenth aspect, by knurling formed on at least a portion of the outer periphery of the connecting portion, it is possible to at least limit the relative movement of the connecting portion and the intermediate portion in a predetermined direction.

[0047] In the component of the twentieth aspect according to any one of the eleventh to nineteenth aspects of this application, the connecting portion has a flange portion disposed between the base portion and the support portion when the mounting portion is mounted to the support portion of the human-powered vehicle by the fastener, and has an outline larger than the diameter of the hole.

[0048] According to the components of aspect 20, the flange portion can be disposed outside the hole and between the base portion and the support portion of the human-powered vehicle.

[0049] In the component of the twenty-first aspect according to any one of the eleventh to twentieth aspects of this application, the base includes a first internal thread portion forming the hole, and the intermediate portion includes at least a portion of an external thread portion configured to engage with the first internal thread portion.

[0050] According to the component of aspect twenty-one, the base and the intermediate portion can be joined by engaging the first internal thread portion of the base with the external thread portion of the intermediate portion. According to the component of aspect twenty-one, since the base and the intermediate portion are threadedly engaged, the relative positions of the base and the intermediate portion can be easily adjusted.

[0051] In the component of the twenty-second aspect of any one of the eleventh to twenty-first aspects of this application, the connecting portion includes a second internal thread portion configured to connect with the fastener.

[0052] According to the components of aspect twenty-two, the fastener and the connecting part can be connected via the second internal thread.

[0053] In the component of the twenty-third aspect of the twenty-first aspect of this application, the connecting portion includes a second internal thread portion configured to connect with the fastener, wherein one of the first internal thread portion and the second internal thread portion is a right-hand thread, and the other of the first internal thread portion and the second internal thread portion is a left-hand thread.

[0054] According to the component of aspect twenty-three, when the second internal thread portion is connected to the fastener, it is possible to suppress the loosening of the connection between the first internal thread portion and the external thread portion.

[0055] In the components of the twenty-fourth aspect of the twenty-second or twenty-third aspect of this application, the connecting portion includes a tool engaging portion configured as an engaging tool.

[0056] According to the components of aspect twenty-four, by engaging the tool with the tool engaging part, the tool is operated, thereby making it easier to adjust the relative position of the middle part with respect to the base.

[0057] In the assembly of the twenty-fifth aspect according to any one of the first to twenty-fourth aspects of this application, at least a portion of the housing is integrally formed with the base as a single component.

[0058] According to the components in aspect 25, the number of parts constituting the components can be reduced.

[0059] In the component of the twenty-sixth aspect according to any one of aspects eleven to twenty-four of this application, the base includes: a first base portion; and a second base portion disposed on the first base portion and defining a hole; the second base portion includes a material different from the first base portion.

[0060] According to the components of aspect twenty-six, the first base and the second base can be formed respectively using suitable materials.

[0061] In the 27th aspect of the 26th aspect of this application, at least a portion of the housing is integrally formed with the first base portion as a single component.

[0062] According to the component of aspect twenty-seven, since the first base portion can be integrally formed with at least a portion of the housing, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0063] In the component of the twenty-eighth aspect according to any one of the first to twenty-seven aspects of this application, the base comprises a magnesium alloy.

[0064] The components in aspect twenty-eight contribute to the lightweighting of the housing.

[0065] The component according to aspect twenty-nine of this application is a component for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion forming a storage space together with the first housing portion; a positioning portion configured to be respectively disposed on the first housing portion and the second housing portion to position the relative positions of the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and an insulating portion disposed between the first housing portion and the second housing portion to electrically insulate the first housing portion and the second housing portion; wherein the positioning portion is electrically connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0066] According to the component of aspect twenty-nine, the first housing portion and the second housing portion can be appropriately electrically connected. Therefore, a potential difference is less likely to occur between the first housing portion and the second housing portion, and the reduction in component life can be suppressed.

[0067] The component according to the 29th and 30th aspects of this application further includes a conductive portion disposed on the positioning portion, which electrically connects the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0068] According to the component in aspect 30, the first housing portion and the second housing portion can be appropriately electrically connected via a conductive portion.

[0069] In the component according to the thirtieth aspect and the thirty-first aspect of this application, the conductive portion comprises conductive grease.

[0070] According to the component of aspect thirty-one, the first housing portion and the second housing portion can be appropriately electrically connected by conductive grease.

[0071] In the assembly of aspect 32 according to any one of aspects 29 to 31 of this application, the first housing portion and the second housing portion comprise a magnesium alloy.

[0072] The components in aspect thirty-two contribute to the lightweighting of the housing.

[0073] In the assembly of aspect 33 according to any one of aspects 29 to 32 of this application, the positioning portion includes: a first protrusion disposed on one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion; and a first recess disposed on the other of the first housing portion and the second housing portion for configuring at least a portion of the first protrusion.

[0074] According to the components of aspect thirty-three, positioning can be easily achieved by fitting the first protrusion with the second recess.

[0075] The assembly of the thirty-fourth aspect according to any one of the first to thirty-third aspects of this application further includes a motor, at least a portion of which is housed in the housing.

[0076] According to the components of aspect thirty-four, it is possible to suppress the reduction of lifespan in components including the motor.

[0077] The component according to aspect 35 of this application is a component for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a housing; a motor, at least a portion of which is housed in the housing; a cover mounted on the housing; and an electrical connector having connection terminals exposed in the space formed by the housing and the cover; the cover including ribs configured to suppress deformation of the space by contacting the housing.

[0078] According to the component in aspect thirty-five, since the deformation of space is suppressed, it is not easy to apply load to the electrical connector, thus suppressing the reduction of life.

[0079] In the assembly according to the thirty-fifth and thirty-sixth aspects of this application, the ribs include a plurality of ribs with different minimum distances from the housing.

[0080] According to the components of aspect thirty-six, the deformation of space can be appropriately suppressed by multiple ribs with different minimum distances.

[0081] In the components of the thirty-seventh aspect of the thirty-sixth aspect of this application, the plurality of ribs includes: at least one first rib extending along a first direction; and at least one second rib extending along a second direction different from the first direction.

[0082] According to the components of aspect thirty-seven, the deformation of space can be appropriately suppressed by the first and second ribs.

[0083] In the assembly of aspect 38 according to any one of aspects 35 to 37 of this application, the housing comprises a metallic material and the cover comprises a resin material.

[0084] According to the component of aspect thirty-eight, in the component including the cover made of resin material, deformation of the space can be appropriately suppressed.

[0085] The component according to aspect 39 of this application is a component for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a housing; a motor disposed in the housing; and a reducer connected to the motor; the reducer comprising a plurality of gears, at least one of the gears having teeth comprising thermosetting resin.

[0086] According to the component in aspect thirty-nine, since the teeth of at least one of the multiple gears included in the reducer are made of thermosetting resin, gear deterioration due to heat generation can be suppressed. Therefore, a reduction in service life can be suppressed.

[0087] In the assembly according to aspect 40 of aspect 39 of this application, the motor includes an output shaft, and a plurality of gears include: a first gear disposed on the output shaft; and a second gear meshing with the first gear; the teeth of the second gear include a thermosetting resin.

[0088] According to the components in aspect 40, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the teeth of the second gear due to heat.

[0089] In the component of aspect forty-one according to aspect forty of this application, the first gear is formed of metal.

[0090] According to the components in aspect 41, by forming the first gear with the highest rotational speed in the reducer with metal, it is possible to suppress the reduction in the lifespan of the reducer.

[0091] In the assembly according to aspect 40 or aspect 41 or aspect 42 of this application, the second gear includes: a shaft portion; and a tooth portion which is integrally formed with the shaft portion and disposed on the shaft portion in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the shaft portion.

[0092] According to the components of aspect 42, the shaft and gear are separately constructed, making it easy to manufacture the second gear.

[0093] In the assembly according to aspect 42 and aspect 43 of this application, the shaft portion is formed of metal.

[0094] According to the component in aspect 43, the strength of the shaft can be increased by forming the shaft with metal.

[0095] In the assembly according to aspect 42, aspect 43, or aspect 44 of this application, the teeth are formed in a ring shape and have a first connecting portion in the inner circumference that connects to the shaft portion.

[0096] According to the components of aspect 44, the toothed part is connected to the shaft part via the first connecting part.

[0097] In the assembly according to aspect 45 of aspect 44 of this application, the shaft portion has a second connecting portion on its outer periphery that is connected to the first connecting portion.

[0098] According to the components of aspect 45, the shaft is connected to the first connecting part via the second connecting part.

[0099] In the component according to aspects 45 and 46 of this application, the first connecting portion includes an internal thread portion, and the second connecting portion includes an external thread portion.

[0100] According to the components of aspect 46, the teeth are connected to the shaft via the internal thread and the external thread.

[0101] In the component according to aspect 46 and aspect 47 of this application, the first connecting portion includes a first part whose inner diameter is larger than that of the internal thread portion and is not threaded, and the second connecting portion includes a second part whose outer diameter is larger than that of the external thread portion and is not threaded, the second part being close to and opposite to or in contact with the first part.

[0102] According to the components of aspect 47, the deviation between the rotation axis of the teeth and the rotation axis of the shaft during assembly is reduced by the first part and the second part.

[0103] In the component of aspect 48 of aspect 46, 47 or 47 of this application, the motor is configured to apply a propulsive force to a human-powered vehicle, and when the motor applies a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, the motor is configured to rotate the second gear in the direction in which the first connecting portion is screwed into the second connecting portion.

[0104] According to the components of aspect 48, the first connecting part and the second connecting part are stably connected.

[0105] In the assembly of aspect 49 according to any one of aspects 42 to 48 of this application, the plurality of gears includes a third gear that rotates integrally with the second gear, the third gear being integrally formed with the shaft portion of the second gear as a single component.

[0106] According to the component in aspect 49, since the shaft of the third gear and the second gear are integrally formed into a single component, the number of components can be reduced.

[0107] The component according to the 50th aspect of the 49th aspect of this application includes a washer disposed axially on the shaft portion between the tooth portion and at least one of the shaft portion and the third gear, the washer having an engaging portion that engages with the shaft portion and at least one of the shaft portion and the third gear.

[0108] According to the component in aspect 50, the stress generated between the first connection and the second connection can be reduced by means of a washer.

[0109] In the assembly of aspect 51 of any one of aspects 42 to 50 of this application, the shaft portion is formed by a hollow shaft.

[0110] According to the component in aspect 51, since the shaft is formed by a hollow shaft, the shaft can be made lightweight.

[0111] In the component of aspect 52 according to any one of aspects 39 to 51 of this application, the thermosetting resin includes at least one of polyaminoamide, phenol, and polyimide.

[0112] According to the components of aspect 52, high-precision teeth can be formed using a thermosetting resin including at least one of polyaminoamide, phenol, and polyimide.

[0113] In the component according to aspect 53 of this application, the teeth include reinforcing fibers embedded with thermosetting resin.

[0114] According to the components of aspect 53, it is possible to improve the strength of the teeth by using reinforcing fibers.

[0115] In the components of aspect 54 of aspect 53 of this application, the reinforcing fiber includes at least one of glass fiber, aromatic polyamide fiber, and potassium titanate fiber.

[0116] According to the components of aspect 54, at least one of glass fiber, aromatic polyamide fiber, and potassium titanate fiber can be used to ensure suitable strength of the teeth.

[0117] The assembly of aspect 55, according to any one of aspects 1 to 54 of this application, further includes a crankshaft disposed in the housing.

[0118] According to the component in aspect 55, it is possible to suppress the reduction in the lifespan of components including the crankshaft.

[0119] The gear according to aspect 56 of this application includes: a shaft portion formed of metal; and a tooth portion comprising a thermosetting resin disposed on the outer periphery of the shaft portion in a manner integrally rotatable with the shaft portion; the tooth portion is formed in an annular shape and has a first connecting portion connected to the shaft portion in an inner periphery, the shaft portion having a second connecting portion connected to the first connecting portion in an outer periphery, the first connecting portion including an internal thread portion, and the second connecting portion including an external thread portion.

[0120] According to the gear of the fifty-sixth aspect, since the gear teeth include thermosetting resin, the reduction in service life can be suppressed. According to the gear of the fifty-sixth aspect, since the gear teeth and the shaft are connected by an internal thread and a threaded portion, the gear teeth can be stably fixed to the shaft.

[0121] In the gear according to the fifty-sixth and fifty-seventh aspects of this application, the first connecting portion includes a first part whose inner diameter is larger than that of the internal thread portion and is not threaded, and the second connecting portion includes a second part whose outer diameter is larger than that of the external thread portion and is not threaded, the second part being radially close to and opposite to the first part or in contact with the first part.

[0122] According to the gear in aspect 57, the first and second parts reduce the deviation between the rotation axis of the teeth and the rotation axis of the shaft during assembly.

[0123] Invention Effects

[0124] The components and gears for human-powered vehicles described in this application can suppress the reduction of lifespan. Attached Figure Description

[0125] Figure 1 It is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including the components for a human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment;

[0126] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of the components and frame support of a human-powered vehicle;

[0127] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 First side view of a human-powered vehicle component;

[0128] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Second side view of the human-powered vehicle components;

[0129] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A top view of the human-powered vehicle components.

[0130] Figure 6 It is Figure 1An exploded perspective view showing the enlarged mounting section of the human-powered vehicle components;

[0131] Figure 7 Is Figure 6 This is a magnified cross-sectional view showing the mounting part of the component for the human-powered vehicle and the vicinity of the frame support, with the mounting part of the component and the frame support being mounted on the frame support by fasteners.

[0132] Figure 8 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view of line D5-D5;

[0133] Figure 9 It is along Figure 3 A sectional view of line D9-D9;

[0134] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A 3D view of human-powered vehicle components;

[0135] Figure 11 It is Figure 10 A magnified 3D view showing the human-powered vehicle component with its cover removed;

[0136] Figure 12 View from the shell side Figure 10 A three-dimensional view of the lid;

[0137] Figure 13 It is along Figure 10 A sectional view of line D13-D13;

[0138] Figure 14 This is an exploded perspective view showing the enlarged mounting portion of the human-powered vehicle component according to the second embodiment;

[0139] Figure 15 exist Figure 14 This is a magnified cross-sectional view showing the mounting part of the component for the human-powered vehicle and the vicinity of the frame support, with the mounting part of the component and the frame support being mounted on the frame support by fasteners.

[0140] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the mounting part of the component and the support part of the frame in the third embodiment of the human-powered vehicle, with the mounting part of the component being mounted to the support part of the frame by fasteners.

[0141] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the connecting part moving toward the head of the fastener;

[0142] Figure 18 It means Figure 16 A perspective view of the connecting part and the middle part of the first mounting section;

[0143] Figure 19 It means Figure 16 Side view of the middle section of the first mounting part;

[0144] Figure 20 It means Figure 16 Side view of the connecting part of the first mounting section;

[0145] Figure 21 It means Figure 16 A perspective view of the connecting part and the middle part of the second mounting section;

[0146] Figure 22 It means Figure 16 Side view of the middle part of the second mounting section;

[0147] Figure 23 It means Figure 16 Side view of the connecting part of the second mounting section;

[0148] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view of the human-powered vehicle component according to the fourth embodiment;

[0149] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 Sectional views of the second and third gears;

[0150] Figure 26 yes Figure 24 Side views of the second and third gears;

[0151] Figure 27 yes Figure 25 A 3D view of the washer;

[0152] Figure 28 It is along Figure 27 A sectional view of line D28-D28;

[0153] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the second and third gears in the fifth embodiment;

[0154] Figure 30 It is along Figure 29 A sectional view of line D30-D30;

[0155] Figure 31 This is a sectional view of the mounting section in the first modified example;

[0156] Figure 32 This is a sectional view of the mounting section in the second modified example;

[0157] Figure 33 This is a sectional view of the mounting section in the third variation. Detailed Implementation

[0158] <First Implementation>

[0159] Reference Figures 1 to 13 The component 40 for the human-powered vehicle according to the first embodiment will be described. The human-powered vehicle 10 is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven by at least human power. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes various types of bicycles, such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, hand bikes, and recumbent bicycles. The number of wheels in the human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited. The human-powered vehicle 10 also includes, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. The human-powered vehicle 10 is not limited to vehicles that can be driven solely by human power. The human-powered vehicle 10 includes electric bicycles (E-bikes) that are propelled not only by human power but also by the driving force of an electric motor. Electric bicycles include electric-assisted bicycles that are propelled with the assistance of an electric motor. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, the human-powered vehicle 10 will be described as an electric-assisted bicycle.

[0160] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes a crank 12 for inputting human driving force. The human-powered vehicle 10 also includes wheels 14 and a body 16. The wheels 14 include a rear wheel 14A and a front wheel 14B. The body 16 includes a frame 18. The crank 12 includes an input rotation shaft 12A, which is rotatable relative to the frame 18; and a pair of crank arms 12B, respectively located at the axial ends of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, the input rotation shaft 12A is a crankshaft. A pair of pedals 20 are respectively connected to each crank arm 12B. The rear wheel 14A is driven by the rotation of the crank 12. The rear wheel 14A is supported on the frame 18. The crank 12 and the rear wheel 14A are connected by a drive mechanism 22. The drive mechanism 22 includes a first rotating component 24 connected to the input rotation shaft 12A. The input rotation shaft 12A and the first rotating component 24 can be connected in a manner that allows them to rotate integrally, or they can be connected via a first one-way clutch 40X. The first one-way clutch 40X is configured to rotate the first rotating component 24 forward when the crank 12 rotates forward, and to allow relative rotation between the crank 12 and the first rotating component 24 when the crank 12 rotates backward. The first rotating component 24 includes a sprocket, a pulley, or a bevel gear. The drive mechanism 22 also includes a second rotating component 26 and a connecting component 28. The connecting component 28 transmits the rotational force of the first rotating component 24 to the second rotating component 26. The connecting component 28 includes, for example, a chain, a belt, or a drive shaft.

[0161] The second rotating component 26 is connected to the rear wheel 14A. The second rotating component 26 includes a sprocket, a pulley, or a bevel gear. Preferably, a second one-way clutch is provided between the second rotating component 26 and the rear wheel 14A. The second one-way clutch is configured such that when the second rotating component 26 rotates forward, the rear wheel 14A rotates forward, and when the second rotating component 26 rotates backward, relative rotation between the second rotating component 26 and the rear wheel 14A is allowed. Although in this embodiment, the first rotating component 24 includes only one sprocket and the second rotating component 26 includes multiple sprockets, the first rotating component 24 may also include multiple sprockets, and the second rotating component 26 may also include only one sprocket. When at least one of the first rotating component 24 and the second rotating component 26 includes multiple sprockets, the manually driven vehicle 10 also includes a derailleur for moving the chain between the multiple sprockets. In this embodiment, the derailleur 27 is provided on the frame 18.

[0162] The front wheel 14B is mounted to the frame 18 via the front fork 30. The handlebars 34 are connected to the front fork 30 via the stem 32. In this embodiment, the rear wheel 14A is connected to the crank 12 via the drive mechanism 22, but it is also possible that at least one of the rear wheel 14A and the front wheel 14B is connected to the crank 12 via the drive mechanism 22.

[0163] Component 40 includes a housing 42 and a mounting portion 44. The mounting portion 44 is configured to be disposed on the housing 42 and mounted to a support portion 38 of the manually driven vehicle 10 via fasteners 36. The manually driven vehicle 10 also includes the support portion 38. The support portion 38 is disposed, for example, on a frame 18. The support portion 38 may be integrally formed with the frame 18 as a single component, or it may be separately formed from the frame 18 and mounted on the frame 18. The support portion 38 may be part of the frame 18. The support portion 38 is disposed on the portion of the frame 18 that connects to the downtube 18A and the seat tube 18B.

[0164] Preferably, component 40 includes: a housing 42; and a motor 46, at least a portion of which is housed in the housing 42. Preferably, the motor 46 is configured to apply propulsion to the manually driven vehicle 10. The motor 46 includes one or more electric motors. The motor 46 is configured to transmit rotational force to at least one of the first rotating component 24, the connecting component 28, and the rear wheel 14A. In this embodiment, the motor 46 is configured to transmit rotation to the first rotating component 24. Preferably, component 40 includes an input rotation shaft 12A. The input rotation shaft 12A is disposed in the housing 42. The housing 42 is, for example, detachably mounted to the support 38. The motor 46 includes an output shaft 46A. The output shaft 46A of the motor 46 is supported in the housing 42 via a pair of sixth bearings 41F and is rotatable relative to the housing 42. The sixth bearings 41F may be ball bearings, rolling bearings, or sliding bearings. The motor 46 is disposed in the housing 42. The motor 46 may be integrally housed in the housing 42. The drive unit for the manually operated vehicle comprises a motor 46 and a housing 42. A third one-way clutch 40Y is preferably provided in the power transmission path between the motor 46 and the input rotating shaft 12A. This third one-way clutch 40Y, when the input rotating shaft 12A is rotated in the direction of travel of the manually operated vehicle 10, suppresses the transmission of rotational force from the input rotating shaft 12A to the motor 46. The first one-way clutch 40X, the second one-way clutch, and the third one-way clutch 40Y include at least one of a roller clutch, a claw clutch, and a brace clutch.

[0165] Component 40 also includes an output portion 40A connected to the first rotating member 24. The first rotating member 24 is, for example, detachably mounted to the output portion 40A. In this embodiment, the input rotating shaft 12A is connected to the output portion 40A via a first one-way clutch 40X. The input rotating shaft 12A can be integrally rotatably connected to the output portion 40A in both directions about the rotation axis of the input rotating shaft 12A. The output portion 40A has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape and is coaxially configured with the input rotating shaft 12A. The output portion 40A and the input rotating shaft 12A can be configured parallel to each other, or they can be configured coaxially. The output portion 40A includes a connecting portion 40C on its outer peripheral surface that is connected to the first rotating member 24. The connecting portion 40C includes at least one spline. Preferably, component 40 also includes a reducer 40B, which is connected to the output shaft of the motor 46 to reduce the rotational speed and output it. The reducer 40B is disposed in the housing 42. Preferably, the reducer 40B is housed in the housing 42. The rotational force of the motor 46 is transmitted to the reducer 40B. In this embodiment, the rotational force of the reducer 40B is transmitted to the output section 40A. The rotational force of the reducer 40B can be transmitted to the connecting member 28 via, for example, a sprocket, pulley, or gear, without passing through the first rotating member 24. The rotational force of the reducer 40B can also be transmitted to the rear wheel 14A via, for example, a roller, without passing through the first rotating member 24 and the connecting member 28. There is no particular limitation on the type of reducer 40B. The reducer 40B includes, for example, at least one of a pair of meshing gears, a planetary gear mechanism, a pair of sprockets and a chain, and a pair of pulleys and a belt. The reducer 40B may also be omitted.

[0166] Preferably, component 40 includes at least one mounting portion 44. In this embodiment, the at least one mounting portion 44 includes a plurality of mounting portions 44. Preferably, the plurality of mounting portions 44 includes at least one first mounting portion 44A and at least one second mounting portion 44B. In this embodiment, the number of first mounting portions 44A is equal to the number of second mounting portions 44B. The number of first mounting portions 44A and the number of second mounting portions 44B may be different. In this embodiment, at least one first mounting portion 44A includes a plurality of first mounting portions 44A, and at least one second mounting portion 44B includes a plurality of second mounting portions 44B. The plurality of first mounting portions 44A are spaced apart on the outer periphery of housing 42 about the rotation axis C2 of input rotation shaft 12A. The plurality of second mounting portions 44B are spaced apart on the outer periphery of housing 42 about the rotation axis C2 of input rotation shaft 12A. For example, at least one first mounting portion 44A and at least one second mounting portion 44B are aligned in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of first mounting portions 44A and each of the plurality of second mounting portions 44B are aligned in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. At least one first mounting portion 44A and at least one second mounting portion 44B are arranged at intervals in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A.

[0167] Fastener 36 includes bolts or rivets. Fastener 36 includes a head 36B and a shaft portion 36C integrally formed as a single component with the head 36B. Fastener 36 has a central axis C1. The head 36B and shaft portion 36C are arranged along the central axis C1. The head 36B and shaft portion 36C are substantially cylindrical. The maximum diameter of the head 36B is larger than the maximum diameter of the shaft portion 36C. Preferably, fastener 36 includes an external thread portion 36A. The external thread portion 36A is provided on the shaft portion 36C. The external thread portion 36A may be provided throughout the shaft portion 36C in the direction along the central axis C1, or it may be provided only on a part of the shaft portion 36C. In the support portion 38, a through hole 38A is formed at a position corresponding to the mounting portion 44, penetrating the support portion 38. The through hole 38A is cylindrical. The diameter of the through hole 38A is smaller than the maximum diameter of the head 36B and larger than the maximum diameter of the shaft portion 36C. By inserting the external thread 36A into the through hole 38A of the support portion 38 and screwing in the second internal thread 64A formed in the mounting portion 44, a portion of the support portion 38 is clamped between the assembly 40 and the head 36B of the fastener 36, and the assembly 40 is mounted on the support portion 38. Preferably, the support portion 38 includes a pair of wall portions 38B and 38C spaced apart in a direction parallel to the width direction of the manual drive vehicle 10. At least one mounting portion 44, a first mounting portion 44A, and a second mounting portion 44B are disposed between the pair of wall portions 38B and 38C. Through holes 38A are formed in the pair of wall portions 38B and 38C respectively. The first mounting portion 44A is connected to the wall portion 38B. The second mounting portion 44B is connected to the wall portion 38C. When the assembly 40 is mounted on the support portion 38 by means of the fastener 36, the insertion direction of the fastener 36 into the first mounting portion 44A is opposite to the insertion direction of the fastener 36 into the second mounting portion 44B. Fastener 36 is formed of, for example, aluminum alloy or stainless steel. In this embodiment, the through hole 38A extends in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The through hole 38A may extend in a direction intersecting the direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The direction intersecting the direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A includes, for example, a direction perpendicular to the direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A.

[0168] Preferably, component 40 includes a housing 42, a positioning portion 48, and an insulating portion 50. The housing 42 includes a first housing portion 52 and a second housing portion 54 that together with the first housing portion 52 forms a storage space SA. Preferably, the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 are made of a magnesium alloy. The magnesium alloy is, for example, AZ91D. A mounting portion 44 is provided in at least one of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 44 is provided in the first housing portion 52.

[0169] The housing 42 supports and rotatably enables the input rotating shaft 12A. The housing 42 includes a first hole 42X and a second hole 42Y for insertion of the input rotating shaft 12A. The first hole 42X and the second hole 42Y connect the space enclosed by the housing 42 and the external space of the housing 42, respectively. The first axial end 13A of the input rotating shaft 12A protrudes from the first hole 42X into the external space of the housing 42. The second axial end 13B of the input rotating shaft 12A protrudes from the second hole 42Y into the external space of the housing 42. A first bearing 41A is disposed in the first hole 42X. The input rotating shaft 12A is supported by the first bearing 41A on the housing 42 and is rotatable relative to the housing 42. The first bearing 41A can be a ball bearing, a rolling bearing, or a sliding bearing. The rotation axis of the output section 40A is equal to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotating shaft 12A. The output section 40A is disposed around the rotation axis on the outer periphery of the input rotating shaft 12A. The second hole 42Y is for the placement of the second bearing 41B. The output section 40A is rotatably disposed relative to the housing 42 via the second bearing 41B. The output section 40A has a substantially cylindrical shape. The second bearing 41B is disposed on the outer periphery of the output section 40A. A third bearing 41C is preferably disposed between the inner periphery of the output section 40A and the outer periphery of the input rotation shaft 12A. The output section 40A supports and rotatably enables the input rotation shaft 12A via the third bearing 41C. The second bearing 41B can be a ball bearing, a rolling bearing, or a sliding bearing. The third bearing 41C includes, for example, a needle roller bearing or a bushing. In a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis C2, at least a portion of the second bearing 41B is configured to overlap with the third bearing 41C.

[0170] The first housing portion 52 includes a second side surface of the housing 42 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The second housing portion 54 includes a second side surface of the housing 42 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 are joined together, for example, by a connecting member 56. The connecting member 56 is, for example, a bolt or a rivet. One of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 is provided with a through hole, for example, for inserting the shaft portion of a bolt, and the other of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 is provided with an internal thread portion, for example, for engaging with a bolt. The first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 can be connected to each other, for example, by an adhesive.

[0171] An insulating portion 50 is disposed between the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, electrically insulating the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. The insulating portion 50 is disposed on the surfaces of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. The insulating portion 50 includes, for example, a metal oxide film formed on the surface of the base material of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. The metal oxide film includes, for example, at least one of anodized film formed by anodizing the base material of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, and a coated film formed by plating the base material of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. In the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, a coating film may be overlapped on at least a portion of the anodized film or the coated film. Preferably, the coating film has electrical insulating properties. When the insulating portion 50 includes at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating film, the metal oxide film and the coating film may be disposed not only between the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, but also on the entire surface of the first housing portion 52 and the entire surface of the second housing portion 54. The insulating portion 50 may include at least one of waterproof grease, waterproof sheet, and coating to replace the metal oxide film, or include at least one of waterproof grease, waterproof sheet, and coating in addition to the metal oxide film.

[0172] Mounting portion 44 includes a metal base 62, a metal connecting portion 64, and an intermediate portion 66. The connecting portion 64 is configured to be disposed on the base 62 and connected to the fastener 36. The intermediate portion 66 is disposed between the connecting portion 64 and the base 62. Preferably, the base 62 has a hole 62A. In this embodiment, the hole 62A is a through hole. The hole 62A may also be a blind hole. At least a portion of the connecting portion 64 and at least a portion of the intermediate portion 66 are disposed in the hole 62A. The base 62 includes a first internal thread portion 62B forming the hole 62A. Preferably, the intermediate portion 66 includes at least a portion of an external thread portion 66A configured to engage with the first internal thread portion 62B. The connecting portion 64 is substantially cylindrical, for example. The connecting portion 64 may be substantially cylindrical, for example. The connecting portion 64 includes a second internal thread portion 64A configured to connect to the fastener 36. A middle portion 66 is provided on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 64. The middle portion 66 is substantially cylindrical in shape. A second internal thread portion 64A is provided on the inner periphery of the connecting portion 64. The second internal thread portion 64A is configured to connect with the external thread portion 36A of the fastener 36. One of the first internal thread portion 62B and the second internal thread portion 64A is a right-hand thread, and the other of the first internal thread portion 62B and the second internal thread portion 64A is a left-hand thread.

[0173] Preferably, the connecting portion 64 has a flange portion 64B. When the mounting portion 44 is mounted to the support portion 38 of the manually driven vehicle 10 by fasteners 36, the flange portion 64B is disposed between the base portion 62 and the support portion 38. The flange portion 64B has an outer diameter larger than that of the hole 62A. When a portion of the connecting portion 64 is disposed within the inner periphery of the hole 62A, the flange portion 64B is located outside the hole 62A. The flange portion 64B is configured to contact the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 by fasteners 36. Because the flange portion 64B contacts the support portion 38, the support portion 38 is less likely to come into contact with the base portion 62. Preferably, the intermediate portion 66 is provided in such a way that it covers the entire area of ​​the outer periphery of the portion of the connecting portion 64 disposed within the hole 62A. Preferably, the intermediate portion 66 is also provided on the side 64D of the flange portion 64B opposite to the base portion 62.

[0174] Preferably, the intermediate portion 66 is non-removably disposed on the connecting portion 64. For example, the intermediate portion 66 and the connecting portion 64 can be made non-removable by performing a surface treatment on a single component. The connecting portion 64 and the intermediate portion 66 can be composed of different components and can be made non-removable by, for example, insert molding or bonding.

[0175] The base 62 includes a first material having a first standard electrode potential. The first material includes an alloy. Preferably, the first material includes a magnesium alloy. Preferably, in this embodiment, the base 62 includes a magnesium alloy. At least a portion of the housing 42 is integrally formed with the base 62 as a single component. The first internal threaded portion 62B of the base 62 may include at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating on its inner periphery.

[0176] The connecting portion 64 includes a second material having a second standard electrode potential. The second material includes, for example, an alloy. Preferably, the second material includes an aluminum alloy. The aluminum alloy is, for example, ADC12. The second material may include an iron alloy instead of an aluminum alloy. The intermediate portion 66 is formed of a third or fourth material. The third material has a third standard electrode potential, the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the first standard electrode potential, and the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential, are respectively smaller than the difference between the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential. The fourth material has electrical insulation properties. The intermediate portion 66 is more preferably formed of a fourth material. Preferably, the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential are different.

[0177] In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 66 is formed of a fourth material, which includes a metal oxide. Preferably, the metal oxide includes aluminum oxide. For example, the connecting portion 64 and the intermediate portion 66 are formed by forming a metal oxide film on the outer periphery of a substantially cylindrical base material formed of a second material. The metal oxide film forming the intermediate portion 66 includes, for example, an anodic oxide film or a coating. The thickness of the intermediate portion 66 is 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is an anodic oxide film, the thickness of the intermediate portion 66 is preferably 3 micrometers or more and 10 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is a coating, the thickness of the intermediate portion 66 is preferably 10 micrometers or more and 20 micrometers or less.

[0178] The connecting portion 64 may include a fifth material in addition to the second material. Preferably, an electrically insulating portion may be provided on the outer surface of the connecting portion 64 that is not in contact with the intermediate portion 66. The electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 64 is formed of the fifth material. Preferably, the fifth material is the same as the fourth material. For example, the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 64 is formed by forming a metal oxide film on the inner periphery of a substantially cylindrical base material formed of the second material. The metal oxide film includes, for example, an anodic oxide film or a coating. Preferably, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 64 is 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is an anodic oxide film, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 64 is preferably 3 micrometers or more and 10 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is a coating, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 64 is preferably 10 micrometers or more and 20 micrometers or less. The intermediate portion 66 and the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 64 are formed simultaneously, for example, during the manufacturing process.

[0179] A metal oxide film can be used to form the entire surface portion of the connecting portion 64 that does not contact the intermediate portion 66. The surface of the inner periphery of the connecting portion 64 may not have a metal oxide film formed. The connecting portion 64 may, for example, be formed to include only the second material.

[0180] Preferably, the connecting portion 64 includes a tool engaging portion 64C configured as an engaging tool. The tool engaging portion 64C is provided, for example, in the direction extending from the second internal thread portion 64A, at at least one of the first end portion 64X or the second end portion 64Y of the connecting portion 64. A flange portion 64B is provided at the first end portion 64X of the connecting portion 64. Preferably, the tool engaging portion 64C is provided at the second end portion 64Y of the connecting portion 64. When the connecting portion 64 has a substantially cylindrical shape, the tool engaging portion 64C may be provided at the inner periphery or the outer periphery of the connecting portion 64. When the connecting portion 64 has a substantially bottom cylindrical shape, the tool engaging portion 64C may be provided at the inner periphery, the outer periphery, or the bottom of the connecting portion 64. Preferably, the tool engaging portion 64C has a hole 64E corresponding to the shape of the first tool. When the connecting portion 64 has a substantially cylindrical shape and the hole 64E is formed at the second end 64Y, the maximum diameter of the hole 64E is only required to be smaller than the diameter of the connecting portion 64, and is not particularly limited. When the hole 64E is formed at the first end 64X of the connecting portion 64, the maximum diameter of the hole 64E is smaller than the diameter of the connecting portion 64, and the minimum diameter of the hole 64E is larger than the inner diameter of the second internal thread portion 64A. When the connecting portion 64 has a substantially cylindrical bottom shape and the hole 64E is formed on the outer side of the bottom of the second end 64Y, the maximum diameter of the hole 64E is only required to be smaller than the diameter of the connecting portion 64, and is not particularly limited. When the connecting portion 64 has a substantially cylindrical bottom shape and the hole 64E is formed on the inner side of the bottom of the second end 64Y, the maximum diameter of the hole 64E is smaller than the inner diameter of the second internal thread portion 64A. The first tool includes, for example, a hex wrench, a star-shaped hollow hex wrench, or a screwdriver. The tool engagement portion 64C may be located on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 64. For example, when the tool engagement portion 64C is located on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 64 and at the second end 64Y of the connecting portion 64, the second end 64Y of the connecting portion 64 is configured such that its maximum value is smaller than the other parts of the connecting portion 64. The shape of the second end 64Y of the connecting portion 64 corresponds to the second tool. For example, when the tool engagement portion 64C is located on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 64 and at the flange portion 64B of the first end 64X of the connecting portion 64, the shape of the flange portion 64B corresponds to the second tool. The second tool includes, for example, a spanner or wrench. By engaging the tool with the tool engaging part 64C and changing the engagement state of the external threaded part 66A of the intermediate part 66 and the first internal threaded part 62B of the base part 62, the relative positions of the connecting part 64 and the intermediate part 66 and the base part 62 are adjusted.Even when a gap is formed between the support portion 38 and the base portion 62 in the extending direction of the through hole 38A, the relative positions of the connecting portion 64 and the intermediate portion 66 relative to the base portion 62 can be adjusted by bringing the connecting portion 64 close to the support portion 38. Therefore, when the fastener 36 is joined to the mounting portion 44, excessive load on the support portion 38 is suppressed.

[0181] The positioning part 48 is configured to be respectively provided on the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54, and to position the relative positions of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54. Preferably, the positioning part 48 includes a first protrusion 48A provided on one of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54, and a first recess 48B provided on the other of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54, for at least a portion of the first protrusion 48A. One of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54 is electrically connected to the first protrusion 48A. The other of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54 is electrically connected to the first recess 48B. One of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54 is integrally formed as a single component with the first protrusion 48A. The other of the first housing part 52 and the second housing part 54 is integrally formed as a single component with the first recess 48B. A positioning portion 48 is provided, for example, in the first housing portion 52, on a first contact surface 48C that directly contacts or contacts the second housing portion 54 via a sealing member, and in the second housing portion 54, on a second contact surface 48D that directly contacts or contacts the first housing portion 52 via a sealing member. The first contact surface 48C is provided around the input rotation shaft 12A on the outer periphery of the first housing portion 52. The second contact surface 48D is provided around the input rotation shaft 12A on the outer periphery of the second housing portion 54. A first protrusion 48A protrudes from one of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 toward the other of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. A first recess 48B is recessed from one of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 toward the other of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. In this embodiment, the first contact surface 48C and the second contact surface 48D are substantially perpendicular to the direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A, and the first protrusion 48A and the first recess 48B extend in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The first contact surface 48C and the second contact surface 48D can be inclined in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A, and the first protrusion 48A and the first recess 48B can extend inclined in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. Since the relative positions of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 are determined when the first protrusion 48A is embedded in the first recess 48B, the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 can be easily joined together by the connecting member 56.

[0182] Preferably, in the positioning portion 48, the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 are electrically connected. At least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B are conductive. Preferably, the entire surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the inner surface of the first recess 48B are conductive. For example, no metal oxide film is formed on at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B. When at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating is formed on the surface of the base material of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, for example, at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating is formed simultaneously on each surface of the first protrusion 48A and the first recess 48B. At least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B can be formed by cutting the metal oxide film and coating formed on the surface of the first protrusion 48A and the surface of the first recess 48B. When at least one of an oxide film and a coating is formed on the surface of the base material of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, for example, at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B can be covered by a cover member so as not to form a metal oxide film and a coating.

[0183] The first protrusion 48A and the first recess 48B can be separately formed with the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54, respectively. One of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 can be connected to the first protrusion 48A by screws, adhesive material, or press-fitting. The other of the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54 can be connected to the first recess 48B by screws, adhesive material, or press-fitting.

[0184] Preferably, component 40 further includes a conductive portion 70 disposed on positioning portion 48, which electrically connects the first housing portion 52 and the second housing portion 54. Preferably, the conductive portion 70 includes conductive grease 71. The conductive grease 71 contacts at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B. Through the conductive grease 71, the first protrusion 48A and the first recess 48B can be electrically connected even if at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B are not in direct contact. When at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B are in direct contact, the conductive portion 70 can be formed by at least a portion of the surface of the first protrusion 48A and at least a portion of the surface of the first recess 48B.

[0185] Component 40 includes a housing 42, a motor 46, a cover 72, and an electrical connector 74. The cover 72 is mounted on the housing 42. In the electrical connector 74, a connection terminal 74A is exposed in the space SB formed by the housing 42 and the cover 72. The electrical connector 74 includes the connection terminal 74A. The connection terminal 74A may include multiple terminals. Preferably, the electrical connector 74 is electrically connected to at least one circuit board disposed in the receiving space SA of the motor 46 and the housing 42. The electrical connector 74 can be connected to at least one circuit via, for example, a cable, or via electrical terminals. The connection terminal 74A of the electrical connector 74 is configured, for example, to connect to a cable that is connected to at least one of a battery and other electrical components disposed externally to component 40. Other electrical components include, for example, a speedometer, an operating switch, or an electric transmission.

[0186] An electrical connector 74 is provided on the housing 42 such that its connecting terminal 74A protrudes from the exterior of the housing 42. The electrical connector 74 is disposed on the outer surface of the housing 42. A through-hole for accommodating a portion of the electrical connector 74, a cable, or an electrical terminal is formed in the housing 42. The through-hole is covered by the electrical connector 74. Preferably, the electrical connector 74 is disposed in a recess 42A formed on the outer surface of the housing 42. For example, the connecting terminal 74A is provided in the recess 42A in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, the electrical connector 74 is provided in the recess 42A such that its connecting terminal 74A protrudes in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12A. The electrical connector 74 may, for example, be provided in the recess 42A such that its connecting terminal 74A protrudes in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the input rotation shaft 12A. A cover 72 is configured to cover the recess 42A.

[0187] Preferably, the housing 42 comprises a metallic material, and the cover 72 comprises a resin material. The resin material can be a resin material with ordinary rigidity or a fiber-reinforced resin material. The cover 72 includes ribs 76. The ribs 76 are configured to suppress deformation of the space SB by contacting the housing 42. The ribs 76 protrude toward the housing 42. Preferably, at least a portion of the ribs 76 is located at a position covering the recess 42A of the housing 42. Preferably, the ribs 76 include a plurality of ribs 76 with different minimum distances L between them and the housing 42. The plurality of ribs 76 includes at least one first rib 76A extending along a first direction X1, and at least one second rib 76B extending along a second direction X2 different from the first direction X1. Preferably, the first direction X1 and the second direction X2 are substantially orthogonal.

[0188] When at least one first rib 76A comprises a plurality of first ribs 76A, the plurality of first ribs 76A are arranged spaced apart in the second direction X2. When at least one second rib 76B comprises a plurality of second ribs 76B, the plurality of second ribs 76B are arranged spaced apart in the first direction X1. Preferably, at least one first rib 76A and at least one second rib 76B are interconnected. Preferably, at least one rib of at least one first rib 76A and at least one rib of at least one second rib 76B are provided on the cover 72 in a cross manner.

[0189] Preferably, the housing 42 includes a protrusion 42B. The protrusion 42B is located at the top of the wall of the recess 42A. The protrusion 42B protrudes toward the cover 72. Preferably, the protrusion direction A1 of the protrusion 42B is parallel to the protrusion direction A2 of the plurality of ribs 76. Preferably, the protrusion 42B and at least a portion of at least one of the plurality of ribs 76 are opposite each other in the protrusion direction of the protrusion 42B. The protrusion 42B extends, for example, along a first direction X1, and is opposite to at least one of the plurality of second ribs 76B in the protrusion direction A1. At least one first rib 76A includes a third rib 76C disposed in the housing 42 adjacent to the peripheral portion of the recess 42A. In the protrusion direction A1 of the protrusion 42B, the minimum distance L1 between the front end 76D of the third rib 76C and the peripheral portion of the recess 42A in the housing 42 is shorter than the minimum distance L2 between the front end 42C of the protrusion 42B and at least one of the plurality of second ribs 76B. The minimum distance L1 can be 0 (zero) millimeters. When a force is applied to the cover 72 from the outside, at least one of the plurality of ribs 76 contacts the outer surface of the housing 42, thereby suppressing deformation of the space SB. Furthermore, when a force is applied to the cover 72 from the outside, the protrusion 42B contacts at least one of the plurality of ribs 76, thereby suppressing deformation of the space SB. In this embodiment, when a force is applied to the cover 72 from the outside, the third rib 76C contacts the outer surface of the housing 42, thereby suppressing deformation of the space SB. Furthermore, when a force is applied to the cover 72 from the outside, the protrusion 42B contacts the plurality of second ribs 76B, thereby suppressing deformation of the space SB.

[0190] In component 40, housing 42 is made of magnesium alloy, and intermediate portion 66 is formed of a third or fourth material. Therefore, regardless of the material of fastener 36, galvanic corrosion is less likely to occur near mounting portion 44.

[0191] <Second Implementation>

[0192] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15The component 40 of the second embodiment will now be described. The component 40 of the second embodiment is identical to that of the component 40 of the first embodiment, except that the structures of the first mounting portion 78A and the second mounting portion 78B differ. Therefore, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment are used for structures common to the first embodiment, and repeated descriptions are omitted. In this embodiment, the structures of the first mounting portion 78A and the second mounting portion 78B are different.

[0193] At least one mounting portion 44 includes at least one first mounting portion 78A and at least one second mounting portion 78B. In this embodiment, the number of first mounting portions 78A is equal to the number of second mounting portions 78B. The number of first mounting portions 78A and the number of second mounting portions 78B may be different. In this embodiment, at least one first mounting portion 78A includes a plurality of first mounting portions 78A, and at least one second mounting portion 78B includes a plurality of second mounting portions 78B. The plurality of first mounting portions 78A are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the housing 42 about the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The plurality of second mounting portions 78B are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the housing 42 about the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. For example, at least one first mounting portion 78A and at least one second mounting portion 78B are aligned in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, the plurality of first mounting portions 78A are respectively aligned with each of the plurality of second mounting portions 78B in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. At least one first mounting portion 78A and at least one second mounting portion 78B are arranged spaced apart in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, the fastener 36 is a bolt. The insertion direction of the fastener 36 inserted into the first mounting portion 78A is opposite to the insertion direction of the fastener 36 inserted into the second mounting portion 78B.

[0194] The first mounting part 78A includes a metal base 62, a metal connecting part 80, and an intermediate part 82.

[0195] The connecting portion 80 is configured to be located on the base 62 and connected to the fastener 36. An intermediate portion 82 is located between the connecting portion 80 and the base 62. Preferably, the base 62 has a hole 62A. In this embodiment, the hole 62A is a through hole. The hole 62A can also be a blind hole. At least a portion of the connecting portion 80 and at least a portion of the intermediate portion 82 are disposed in the hole 62A. In this embodiment, no thread is formed on the inner periphery of the hole 62A defined on the base 62. The connecting portion 80 includes a second internal thread portion 80A configured to connect to the fastener 36. The second internal thread portion 80A is configured to connect to the external thread portion 36A of the fastener 36. The connecting portion 80 is, for example, formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The connecting portion 80 can, for example, be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The second internal thread portion 80A is located on the inner periphery of the connecting portion 80. The intermediate portion 82 is located on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 80. The middle portion 82 is formed into a substantially cylindrical shape. The middle portion 82 can be formed into a substantially bottomed cylindrical shape.

[0196] Preferably, the connecting portion 80 has a flange portion 80B. When the mounting portion 44 is mounted to the support portion 38 of the manually driven vehicle 10 by fasteners 36, the flange portion 80B is disposed between the base portion 62 and the support portion 38. The flange portion 80B has an outer diameter larger than that of the hole 62A. When a portion of the connecting portion 80 is disposed within the inner periphery of the hole 62A, the flange portion 80B is located outside the hole 62A. The flange portion 80B is configured to contact the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 by fasteners 36. Contact between the flange portion 80B and the support portion 38 prevents the support portion 38 from easily contacting the base portion 62. Preferably, the intermediate portion 82 is provided in such a way that it covers the entire area of ​​the outer periphery of the portion of the connecting portion 80 disposed within the hole 62A.

[0197] Preferably, the intermediate portion 82 and the connecting portion 80 are detachably provided. The first mounting portion 78A includes a first component 84, which includes the intermediate portion 82. The first component 84 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The first component 84 may be formed in a substantially bottom-cylinder shape. The intermediate portion 82 is provided on the outer periphery of the first component 84. In addition to being provided on the outer periphery of the first component 84, the intermediate portion 82 may also be provided on at least one of the inner periphery of the first component 84 and the side portion connecting the outer periphery and the inner periphery of the first component 84. The entire first component 84 may be the intermediate portion 82. Preferably, the intermediate portion 82 includes the outer peripheral surface of the first component 84. Preferably, the connecting portion 80 is connected to the first component 84 in a manner that allows it to move relative to the first component 84 in the extending direction of the hole 62A. The first component 84 and the base 62 include a first limiting portion 87, which limits the movement of the first component 84 relative to the base 62. The first limiting portion 87 includes at least one recess 87A and at least one protrusion 87B having complementary shapes. One of the at least one recess and at least one protrusion 87B is located in one of the outer periphery of the first member 84 and the inner periphery of the base 62, while the other of the at least one recess 87A and at least one protrusion 87B is located in the other of the outer periphery of the first member 84 and the inner periphery of the base. The at least one recess 87A and at least one protrusion 87B located in the inner periphery of the base 62 are preferably located in the middle of the inner periphery of the base 62 in the extending direction of the hole 62A. The at least one recess 87A and at least one protrusion 87B may be located in each of the outer periphery of the first member 84 and the inner periphery of the base, respectively. The first limiting portion 87 engages with the recess 87A and the protrusion 87B, thereby limiting the rotation of the first member 84 relative to the base 62 and limiting the separation of the first member 84 from the base 62. The first member 84 is, for example, embedded in the base 62. Preferably, at least one of the first component 84 and the connecting portion 80 includes a limiting portion 84A that limits relative rotation between the first component 84 and the connecting portion 80. The limiting portion 84A is provided in at least one of the inner periphery of the first component 84 and the outer periphery of the connecting portion 80. The limiting portion 84A may include, for example, one or more splines.

[0198] The base 62 corresponding to the first mounting portion 78A includes a first material having a first standard electrode potential. Preferably, the base 62 corresponding to the first mounting portion 78A includes a magnesium alloy. At least a portion of the housing 42 is integrally formed as a single component with the base 62 corresponding to the first mounting portion 78A. The inner periphery of the defining hole 62A of the base 62 may include at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating.

[0199] The connecting portion 80 includes a second material having a second standard electrode potential. Preferably, the second material includes an aluminum alloy, and the metal oxide includes aluminum oxide. The aluminum alloy is, for example, ADC12. The intermediate portion 82 is formed of a third or fourth material. The third material has a third standard electrode potential, the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the first standard electrode potential, and the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential, respectively, being smaller than the difference between the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential. The fourth material has electrical insulation properties. The intermediate portion 66 is more preferably formed of the fourth material. Preferably, the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential are different.

[0200] In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 82 is formed of a fourth material, including a metal oxide. For example, the intermediate portion 82 is formed by forming a metal oxide film on the outer periphery of the first component 84, which is formed of a second material. The metal oxide film includes, for example, an anodic oxide film or a coating. Preferably, the thickness of the intermediate portion 82 is 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is an anodic oxide film, the thickness of the intermediate portion 82 is preferably 3 micrometers or more and 10 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is a coating, the thickness of the intermediate portion 82 is preferably 10 micrometers or more and 20 micrometers or less.

[0201] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 80 may include a fifth material in addition to the second material. Preferably, an electrically insulating portion may be provided on the outer surface of the connecting portion 80. The electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 80 is formed of the fifth material. Preferably, the fifth material and the fourth material are the same material. For example, the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 80 is formed by forming a metal oxide film on the surface of a substantially cylindrical base material formed of the second material. The metal oxide film includes, for example, an anodic oxide film or a coating. Preferably, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 80 is 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is an anodic oxide film, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 80 is preferably 3 micrometers or more and 10 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is a coating, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 80 is preferably 10 micrometers or more and 20 micrometers or less.

[0202] The second mounting section 78B includes a metal base 62, a metal connecting section 88, and a middle section 90.

[0203] The connecting portion 88 is configured to be disposed on the base 62 and connected to the fastener 36. An intermediate portion 90 is disposed between the connecting portion 88 and the base 62. Preferably, the base 62 has a hole 62A. In this embodiment, the hole 62A is a through hole. The hole 62A can be a blind hole. At least a portion of the connecting portion 88 and at least a portion of the intermediate portion 90 are disposed in the hole 62A. No threads are formed on the inner circumferential surface defining the hole 62A on the base 62. The connecting portion 88 and the intermediate portion 90 are non-removably disposed on the base 62. The connecting portion 88 includes a second internal thread portion 88A configured to connect to the fastener 36. The second internal thread portion 88A is configured to connect to the external thread portion 36A of the fastener 36. The connecting portion 80 is substantially cylindrical, for example. The connecting portion 80 can be substantially cylindrical, for example. The second internal thread portion 80A is disposed on the inner circumference of the connecting portion 80. The intermediate portion 82 is provided on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 80. The intermediate portion 82 is substantially cylindrical in shape. The intermediate portion 82 can be substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0204] Preferably, the intermediate portion 90 is non-removably provided on the connecting portion 88. The first mounting portion 78A includes a second component 92, which includes the intermediate portion 82. The second component 92 is substantially cylindrical. The second component 92 may be substantially cylindrical with a bottom. The intermediate portion 82 is provided on the outer periphery of the second component 92. Preferably, the intermediate portion 90 includes the outer peripheral surface of the second component 92. The second component 92 and the base 62 include a second limiting portion 93, which limits the movement of the second component 92 relative to the base 62. The second limiting portion 93 includes at least one recess 93B and at least one protrusion 93A having complementary shapes. When at least one recess 93B includes a plurality of recesses 93B, preferably, the plurality of recesses 93B are equally spaced in the circumferential direction of the hole 62A. When at least one protrusion 93A includes a plurality of protrusions 93A, preferably, the plurality of protrusions 93A are equally spaced in the circumferential direction of the hole 62A. At least one of a recess 93B and at least one of a protrusion 93A is provided in one of the outer peripheral portion of the second member 92 and the inner peripheral portion of the base 62, and the other of at least one recess 93B and at least one of a protrusion 93A is provided in the other of the outer peripheral portion of the second member 92 and the inner peripheral portion of the base 62. At least one of the recess 93B and at least one of the protrusion 93A provided in the inner peripheral portion of the base 62 is preferably located in the middle portion of the inner peripheral portion of the base 62 in the extending direction of the hole 62A. At least one recess 93B and at least one protrusion 93A may be provided in each of the outer peripheral portion of the second member 92 and the inner peripheral portion of the base 62, respectively. The second limiting portion 93 engages with the protrusion 93A through the recess 93B, thereby limiting the rotation of the second member 92 relative to the base 62 and limiting the separation of the second member 92 from the base 62. The second member 92 is, for example, embedded in the base 62.

[0205] The base 62 corresponding to the second mounting portion 78B includes a first material having a first standard electrode potential. Preferably, the base 62 includes a magnesium alloy. At least a portion of the housing 42 is integrally formed as a single component with the base 62 corresponding to the second mounting portion 78B. The inner periphery of the defining hole 62A of the base 62 may include at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating.

[0206] The connecting portion 88 includes a second material having a second standard electrode potential. Preferably, the second material includes an aluminum alloy, and the metal oxide includes aluminum oxide. The aluminum alloy is, for example, ADC12. The intermediate portion 90 is formed of a third or fourth material. The third material has a third standard electrode potential, the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the first standard electrode potential, and the difference between the third standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential, respectively, being smaller than the difference between the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential. The fourth material has electrical insulation properties. The intermediate portion 90 is more preferably formed of a fourth material. Preferably, the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential are different.

[0207] In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 90 is formed of a fourth material, including a metal oxide. For example, the intermediate portion 90 is fabricated by forming a metal oxide film on the outer periphery of the second component 92, which is formed of a second material. The metal oxide film includes, for example, an anodic oxide film or a coating. Preferably, the thickness of the intermediate portion 90 is 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is an anodic oxide film, the thickness of the intermediate portion 90 is preferably 3 micrometers or more and 10 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is a coating, the thickness of the intermediate portion 90 is preferably 10 micrometers or more and 20 micrometers or less.

[0208] In this embodiment, the connecting portion 88 may include a fifth material in addition to the second material. Preferably, an electrically insulating portion may be provided on the outer surface of the connecting portion 88 that does not contact the intermediate portion 90. The electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 88 is formed of the fifth material. Preferably, the fifth material is the same as the fourth material. For example, the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 88 is formed by forming a metal oxide film on the inner periphery of the second component formed of the second material. The metal oxide film includes, for example, an anodic oxide film or a coating. Preferably, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 88 is 1 micrometer or more and 30 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is an anodic oxide film, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 88 is preferably 3 micrometers or more and 10 micrometers or less. When the metal oxide film is a coating, the thickness of the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 88 is preferably 10 micrometers or more and 20 micrometers or less. For example, the intermediate portion 90 and the electrically insulating portion of the connecting portion 88 are formed simultaneously in the manufacturing process.

[0209] <Third Implementation Method>

[0210] Reference Figures 16-23 The component 40 of the third embodiment will now be described. Except for the difference in structure between the first mounting part 96A and the second mounting part 96B, the component 40 of the third embodiment is the same as that of the component 40 of the second embodiment. Therefore, for structures common to the first and second embodiments, the same reference numerals as those in the first and second embodiments will be added, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0211] At least one mounting portion 44 includes at least one first mounting portion 96A and at least one second mounting portion 96B. In this embodiment, the number of first mounting portions 96A is the same as the number of second mounting portions 96B. The number of first mounting portions 96A and the number of second mounting portions 96B may be different. In this embodiment, at least one first mounting portion 96A includes a plurality of first mounting portions 96A, and at least one second mounting portion 96B includes a plurality of second mounting portions 96B. The plurality of first mounting portions 96A are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the housing 42 about the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. The plurality of second mounting portions 96B are spaced apart on the outer periphery of the housing 42 about the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. For example, at least one first mounting portion 96A and at least one second mounting portion 96B are aligned in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, the plurality of first mounting portions 96A are aligned with each of the plurality of second mounting portions 96B in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. At least one first mounting portion 96A and at least one second mounting portion 96B are arranged spaced apart in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this embodiment, the fastener 36 is a bolt. The insertion direction of the fastener 36 inserted into the first mounting portion 96A is opposite to the insertion direction of the fastener 36 inserted into the second mounting portion 96B.

[0212] The base 62 includes a first base portion 63A and a second base portion 63B. The second base portion 63B is disposed on the first base portion 63A and defines a hole 62A. In this embodiment, the second base portion 63B is made of a different material than the first base portion 63A. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the housing 42 is integrally formed as a single component with the first base portion 63A. The first base portion 63A is made of a magnesium alloy. The second base portion 63B is formed, for example, of an aluminum alloy. Preferably, the second base portion 63B is substantially formed in a cylindrical shape. The first base portion 63A includes a configuration portion 63C for configuring the second base portion 63B. Preferably, the second base portion 63B is integrally formed on the first base portion 63A.

[0213] Preferably, the second base portion 63B has a fitting portion 63D that fits into the first base portion 63A to prevent it from falling off the placement portion 63C. The fitting portion 63D is provided, for example, on the outer periphery of the second base portion 63B around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The fitting portion 63D, located on the outer periphery of the second base portion 63B around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, includes at least one of a recess and a protrusion. In this embodiment, the fitting portion 63D is formed by a recess. The fitting portion 63D can be continuously disposed around the entire circumference of the second base portion 63B or intermittently disposed around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The fitting portion 63D is provided, for example, in the middle portion between the two ends of the second base portion 63B in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36.

[0214] The second base portion 63B has a first end face 63E and a second end face 63F in the connection direction D1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B is not covered by the first base portion 63A, while the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B is covered by the first base portion 63A. The second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B preferably contacts the first base portion 63A. The first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B can be covered by the first base portion 63A. The first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B can contact the first base portion 63A. In a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the fitting portion 63D is, for example, positioned closer to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B than the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B. The second base portion 63B can be pressed into the placement portion 63C of the first base portion 63A. When the second base portion 63B is pressed into the configuration portion 63C of the first base portion 63A, the fitting portion 63D may be provided near the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B or omitted.

[0215] The inner diameter of the end portion of the second base portion 63B, including the first end face 63E, can be formed to be larger than the inner diameter of other portions of the second base portion 63B. This suppresses the load on the opening portion of the defining hole 62A of the base 62. The difference between the minimum inner diameter and the maximum outer diameter of the second base portion 63B is, for example, 1 mm or more and 20 mm or less. The second base portion 63B functions as a reinforcing member. Since the second base portion 63B functions as a reinforcing member, its shape and material are not particularly limited.

[0216] The first mounting portion 96A includes a metal base 62, a metal connecting portion 97, and an intermediate portion 98. The intermediate portion 98 is formed of a component different from the connecting portion 97. The intermediate portion 98 is formed of a fourth material. Preferably, the fourth material includes a resin material with electrical insulation properties. In addition to the resin material, the fourth material may also include reinforcing fibers. The intermediate portion 98 preferably has a high hardness. The resin material is a synthetic resin material. The resin material included in the fourth material includes at least one of, for example, polyamide (PA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), and polyetherimide (PEI). The intermediate portion 98 may be formed of rubber. The reinforcing fibers included in the fourth material have electrical insulation properties. Preferably, the reinforcing fibers included in the fourth material include at least one of glass fiber and aromatic polyamide fiber.

[0217] The connecting portion 97 is configured to be located on the base 62 and connected to the fastener 36. An intermediate portion 98 is located between the connecting portion 97 and the base 62. Preferably, the intermediate portion 98 is pressed into a hole 62A in the base 62. Preferably, the intermediate portion 98 is inserted into the connecting portion 97. The connecting portion 97 includes a second internal thread portion 97A configured to connect to the fastener 36. The second internal thread portion 97A is configured to connect to the external thread portion 36A of the fastener 36. Preferably, at least a portion of the connecting portion 97 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The connecting portion 97 is, for example, substantially cylindrical. The connecting portion 97 may, for example, be substantially cylindrical with a bottom. The second internal thread portion 97A is located on the inner periphery of the connecting portion 97. The intermediate portion 98 is located on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 97. At least a portion of the intermediate portion 98 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The intermediate portion 98 is substantially cylindrical. The middle section 98 can, for example, be substantially formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape.

[0218] Preferably, the connecting portion 97 has a flange portion 97B. A flange portion 98E is formed at one end of the connecting portion 97 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the mounting portion 44 is mounted to the support portion 38 of the manual drive vehicle 10 via the fastener 36, the flange portion 97B is disposed between the base 62 of the first mounting portion 96A and the support portion 38. The flange portion 97B has an outer diameter larger than the diameter of the hole 62A formed in the base 62 of the first mounting portion 96A. When a portion of the connecting portion 97 is disposed within the inner periphery of the hole 62A formed in the base 62 of the first mounting portion 96A, the flange portion 97B is located outside the hole 62A formed in the base 62 of the first mounting portion 96A. The flange portion 97B is configured to face the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 via the fastener 36. The flange portion 97B is configured to contact the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 by the fastener 36. The flange portion 97B is formed in an annular shape. The flange portion 97B is substantially formed in an annular shape. Preferably, the flange portion 97B includes at least one plane 97F on its outer peripheral surface 97E around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface 97E of the flange portion 97B includes a plurality of planes 97F. Two of the plurality of planes 97F are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, and another two of the plurality of planes 97F are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The support portion 38 of the frame 18 may have an abutment portion configured to abut against at least one of the planes 97F on the outer peripheral surface 97E of the flange portion 97B. In this case, the plane 97F of the outer peripheral surface 97E of the flange 97B abuts against the abutment portion of the support 38, thereby preventing the connecting portion 97 from rotating around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. A tool can be engaged with the outer peripheral surface 97E of the flange 97B.

[0219] In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 98 is detachably provided on the connecting portion 97. Preferably, at least a portion of the intermediate portion 98 covers at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion of the connecting portion 97. Preferably, the intermediate portion 98 is configured to cover the portion of the second base portion 63B that is not covered by the first base portion 63A. The intermediate portion 98 is configured, for example, to cover the area where the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B contact. In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 98 has a flange portion 98E. The flange portion 98E is formed at one end of the intermediate portion 98 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The flange portion 98E is disposed between the flange portion 97B and the base portion 62 of the connecting portion 97 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The flange portion 98E contacts and covers the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B. The flange portion 98E can be formed to contact the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B. The flange portion 98E can be bonded to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B via adhesive 99. Therefore, water is less likely to enter the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B, thus suppressing electro-corrosion at the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B. In a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the length of the portion of the intermediate portion 98 excluding the flange portion 98E is longer than the length of the second base portion 63B. The intermediate portion 98 can be formed to contact the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B. The intermediate portion 98 can be bonded to the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B via adhesive 99. Therefore, water is less likely to enter the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B, thus suppressing electro-corrosion at the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B. Before the assembly 40 is installed on the support portion 38 by the fastener 36, the flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97 contacts the flange portion 98E of the intermediate portion 98.

[0220] The flange portion 98E is formed in an annular shape. The flange portion 98E is substantially annular. For example, the flange portion 98E includes at least one plane 98G on its outer peripheral surface 98F surrounding the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface 98F of the flange portion 98E includes a plurality of planes 98G. Two of the plurality of planes 98G are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, and another two planes 98G are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. A tool can be engaged on the outer peripheral surface 98F of the flange portion 98E.

[0221] The plane 98G of the outer peripheral surface 98F of the flange portion 98E can abut against the abutment portion of the support portion 38. In this case, when the fastener 36 is installed, the intermediate portion 98 is prevented from rotating about the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the shape of the flange portion 98E of the intermediate portion 98 is the same as the shape of the flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97. In this embodiment, when viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97 are connected in such a way that the shape of the flange portion 97B of the intermediate portion 98 coincides with the shape of the flange portion 98E of the connecting portion 97. The shape of the flange portion 98E of the intermediate portion 98 can be larger or smaller than the shape of the flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97. When viewed from a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, if the shape of the flange portion 98E of the intermediate portion 98 is the same as the shape of the flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97, when the connecting portion 97 and the intermediate portion 98 are installed on the base 62 using a tool, the tool can contact the flange portion 98E and the flange portion 97B and perform operations, thus suppressing undesirable relative movement of the connecting portion 97 relative to the intermediate portion 98.

[0222] The bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the base 62 is greater than the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97. When the component 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 via the fastener 36, the fastener 36 and the connecting portion 97 are connected, and the fastener 36 is tightened. In this case, if... Figure 16 As shown, there is a gap between the connecting part 97 and the frame 18. Therefore, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the intermediate part 98 does not move relative to the base 62, but the connecting part 97 moves relative to the intermediate part 98, and so on. Figure 17The connecting portion 97 contacts the frame 18 as shown. Since the relative position of the intermediate portion 98 and the base 62 remains unchanged, the portion of the base 62 covered by the intermediate portion 98 is not exposed. Preferably, the intermediate portion 98 is bonded to the base 62 by an adhesive 99 provided in the hole 62A. The adhesive 99 easily enhances the bonding strength between the intermediate portion 98 and the base 62. The type of adhesive 99 is not particularly limited; it may include at least one of, for example, epoxy adhesives, acrylic adhesives, and hot melt adhesives. The adhesive 99 may also be omitted.

[0223] Preferably, at least one of the knurling 98A contacting the base 62 and the protrusion contacting the base 62 is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the intermediate portion 98. In this embodiment, knurling 98A contacting the base 62 is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the intermediate portion 98 around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The knurling 98A can be formed by planar knurling or by oblique knurling. For example, the knurling 98A is formed in such a way that it actually covers the entire circumference of the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The knurling 98A can be formed intermittently, for example, at intervals around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the intermediate portion 98 does not have a flange portion 98E, the width of the knurling 98A and the width of the protrusion, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, are, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the intermediate portion 98. When the intermediate portion 98 has a flange portion 98E, the width of the knurling 98A and the width of the protrusion, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, are, for example, 10% to 100% of the width of the portion of the intermediate portion 98 excluding the flange portion 98E. Preferably, the knurling 98A is formed by planar knurling. In this embodiment, the knurling 98A has a plurality of protrusions that are spaced apart circumferentially around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 and extend in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the intermediate portion 98 has a protrusion that contacts the base portion 62, the protrusion that contacts the base portion 62 can be formed continuously around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, or it can be formed intermittently around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36.

[0224] Preferably, at least one of the knurling 98A contacting the base 62 and the protrusion contacting the base 62 is located away from the opening of the hole 62A. Preferably, at least one of the knurling 98A and the protrusion has a first contact portion 98B and a second contact portion 98C. The first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C are arranged at a distance from each other in the extending direction of the hole 62A. The extending direction of the hole 62A includes a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 98 has knurling 98A, and knurling 98A has a first contact portion 98B and a second contact portion 98C. The first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C are each formed by planar knurling. At the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 98, the first contact portion 98B is located closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the second contact portion 98C. At least a portion of the adhesive 99 is disposed between the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C. Preferably, in the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 98, the outer diameter between the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the portion where the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C are provided. Therefore, it is easy to dispose of the adhesive 99 in the portion between the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C. A portion of the adhesive 99 may be provided between the flange portion 98E and the base portion 62 of the intermediate portion 98. A portion of the adhesive 99 may be provided between the knurled portion 98A and the base portion 62. Preferably, in the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 98, the maximum outer diameter of the third portion 98K, excluding the flange portion 98E, the first portion 98H adjacent to the flange portion 98E, and the second portion 98J where the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C are provided, is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the second portion 98J. Preferably, at least a portion of the second portion 98J is separated from the base portion 62 when the intermediate portion 98 is pressed into the base portion 62. Preferably, the entire second portion 98J can be separated from the base 62. This allows the adhesive 99 to be stably disposed between the second portion 98J and the base 62 if at least a portion of the second portion 98J of the intermediate portion 98 is separated from the base 62. Preferably, the hardness of the adhesive 99 in the hardened state is less than or equal to the hardness of the intermediate portion 98. Preferably, the outer diameters of the portions adjacent to the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C on the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 98 are smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the portions where the first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C are provided. For example, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the first contact portion 98B is greater than the width of the second contact portion 98C. In a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the first contact portion 98B is, for example, less than 500% of the width of the second contact portion 98C.

[0225] Preferably, the knurling 97C, which contacts the intermediate portion 98, is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the connecting portion 97. The knurling 97C is formed in a manner that substantially covers the entire circumference of the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The knurling 97C may be formed intermittently, for example, at intervals around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the connecting portion 97 does not have a flange portion 97B, the width of the knurling 97C in the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the connecting portion 97. When the connecting portion 97 has a flange portion 97B, the width of the knurling 97C in the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the portion of the connecting portion 97 excluding the flange portion 97B. The knurling 97C is formed by planar knurling. In this embodiment, the knurling 97C has a plurality of protrusions 97G that are spaced apart in the circumferential direction around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 and extend in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36.

[0226] When the knurling 97C is provided on the connecting portion 97, preferably, a second knurling 98D is formed on the inner periphery of the intermediate portion 98, which contacts the knurling 97C of the connecting portion 97. When the knurling 97C is formed by planar knurling, preferably, the second knurling 98D is formed by planar knurling. The knurling 97C and the second knurling 98D engage. By forming the knurling 97C and the second knurling 98D by planar knurling and engaging them, rotation of the connecting portion 97 about the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is suppressed, and movement of the connecting portion 97 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is allowed. In the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the second knurling 98D can be equal to, larger than, or smaller than the width of the knurling 97C. Preferably, the second knurling 98D is formed on the inner periphery of the intermediate portion 98, excluding the flange portion 97B. In a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the second knurling 98D is, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the middle portion 98.

[0227] For example, at least a portion of the second knurling 98D of the intermediate portion 98 is located closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 than the first contact portion 98B of the knurling 98 of the outer periphery. For example, at least a portion of the second knurling 98D of the intermediate portion 98 is located closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 than the center of the intermediate portion 98. For example, at least a portion of the knurling 97C of the connecting portion 97 is located closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. For example, at least a portion of the knurling 97C of the connecting portion 97 is located closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 than the center of the connecting portion 97. Preferably, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, at least a portion of the outer periphery of the connecting portion 97 that is closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the knurling 97C contacts the inner periphery 98X of the intermediate portion 98. For example, the maximum inner diameter of the portion of the intermediate portion 98 where the second knurling 98D is provided is greater than the maximum inner diameter of the portion of the intermediate portion 98 that is further away from the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the second knurling 98D. For example, the maximum outer diameter of the portion of the connecting portion 97 where the knurling 97C is provided is greater than the maximum outer diameter of the portion of the connecting portion 97 that is further away from the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the knurling 97C. For example, the maximum outer diameter of the portion between the knurling 97C and the flange portion 97B in the connecting portion 97 is larger than the maximum outer diameter of the knurling 97C in the connecting portion 97.

[0228] In the process of installing component 40 onto support 38 using fastener 36, such as Figure 16 As shown, when a gap is formed between the support portion 38 and the flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97, if the fastener 36 is tightened, the connecting portion 97 will move, as... Figure 17 As shown, the flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97 contacts the connecting portion 97. The flange portion 97B of the connecting portion 97 is configured to contact the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 by the fastener 36. Because the flange portion 97B contacts the support portion 38, the base 62 is held on the frame 18 via the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97, thus electrically insulating the base 62 from the frame 18. By forming the intermediate portion 98 such that at least a portion of the second portion 98J is located away from the base 62, the compression amount of the intermediate portion 98 is reduced when the connecting portion 97 is pressed into the intermediate portion 98, compared to the case where the second portion 98J contacts the base 62. This reduces the pressing force between the connecting portion 97 and the intermediate portion 98. If the pressing force between the connecting portion 97 and the intermediate portion 98 is reduced, it is easier to make the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the base 62 greater than the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97.

[0229] Preferably, the third limiting portion 97D is formed on the surface 97X of the flange portion 97B opposite to the support portion 38. The third limiting portion 97D includes at least one protrusion 97Y. In this embodiment, the third limiting portion 97D includes a plurality of protrusions 97Y. The plurality of protrusions 97Y are arranged at intervals around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The plurality of protrusions 97Y extend radially relative to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. Preferably, the first end face 97Z and the second end face 97W of the protrusion 97Y around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 are substantially quadrangular planes, and the protrusion 97Y is formed by a triangular prism whose front end tapers from the base end toward the free end. For example, of the first end face 97Z and the second end face 97W of the protrusion 97Y, the one arranged downstream in the rotation direction when the fastener 36 is connected to the connecting portion 97 is formed to be substantially parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the flange portion 97B contacts the support portion 38, the protrusion 97Y of the third limiting portion 97D engages with the frame 18 as a wedge, thereby limiting the rotation of the intermediate portion 98 relative to the support portion 38. As long as the rotation of the intermediate portion 98 relative to the support portion 38 can be limited, the shape of the third limiting portion 97D can be formed by a recess, for example, or it can be any shape.

[0230] The first base portion 63A included in the first mounting portion 96A includes a first material having a first standard electrode potential. Preferably, the first base portion 63A included in the first mounting portion 96A includes a magnesium alloy. At least a portion of the housing 42 is integrally formed with the first base portion 63A as a single component. At least one of the inner periphery of the defining hole 62A and the outer periphery of the second base portion 63B may include at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating film.

[0231] The connecting portion 97 includes a second material having a second standard electrode potential. Preferably, the second material includes an aluminum alloy. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 97 is formed of an aluminum alloy. The aluminum alloy is, for example, ADC12. Preferably, the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential are different.

[0232] The second mounting portion 96B includes a metal base 62, a metal connecting portion 100, and an intermediate portion 101. The intermediate portion 101 is formed of a component different from that of the connecting portion 100. Preferably, the intermediate portion 101 is formed of a resin material. The intermediate portion 101, like the intermediate portion 98, is formed of a fourth material. The intermediate portion 101 may be formed of rubber.

[0233] The connecting portion 100 is configured to be located at the base 62 and connected to the fastener 36. An intermediate portion 101 is located between the connecting portion 100 and the base 62. Preferably, the intermediate portion 101 is embedded in the connecting portion 100. Preferably, the intermediate portion 101 is pressed into a hole 62A in the base 62. The connecting portion 100 includes a second internal thread portion 100A configured to connect to the fastener 36. The second internal thread portion 100A is configured to connect to the external thread portion 36A of the fastener 36. Preferably, at least a portion of the connecting portion 100 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The connecting portion 100 is, for example, substantially cylindrical. The connecting portion 100 may, for example, be substantially bottomed cylindrical. The second internal thread portion 100A is located on the inner periphery of the connecting portion 100. The intermediate portion 101 is located on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 100. At least a portion of the intermediate portion 101 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The middle portion 101 is substantially formed in a cylindrical shape. For example, the middle portion 101 can be substantially formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape.

[0234] Preferably, the connecting portion 100 has a flange portion 100B. The flange portion 100B is formed at one end of the connecting portion 100 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the mounting portion 44 is mounted to the support portion 38 of the manual drive vehicle 10 by the fastener 36, the flange portion 100B is disposed between the base 62 of the second mounting portion 96B and the support portion 38. The flange portion 100B has an outer shape larger than the diameter of the hole 62A formed in the base 62 of the second mounting portion 96B. When a portion of the connecting portion 100 is disposed within the inner periphery of the hole 62A in the base 62 of the second mounting portion 96B, the flange portion 100B is located outside the hole 62A in the base 62 of the second mounting portion 96B. The flange portion 100B is configured to face the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 by the fastener 36. The flange portion 100B is configured to contact the support portion 38 when the assembly 40 is mounted to the support portion 38 by the fastener 36. The flange portion 100B is formed in an annular shape. The flange portion 100B is substantially formed in an annular shape. Preferably, the flange portion 100B includes at least one plane 100F in its outer peripheral surface 100E around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface 100E of the flange portion 100B includes a plurality of planes 100F. Two of the plurality of planes 100F are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, and another two of the plurality of planes 100F are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. Preferably, the support portion 38 of the frame 18 may have an abutment portion configured to abut against one of the planes 100F of the outer peripheral surface 100E of the flange portion 97B. In this case, the plane 100F of the outer peripheral surface 100E of the flange 97B abuts against the abutting portion of the support 38, thereby preventing the connecting portion 100 from rotating around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 when the fastener 36 is installed. A tool can be engaged with the outer peripheral surface 100E of the flange 100B.

[0235] In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 101 is non-removably provided in the connecting portion 100. Preferably, at least a portion of the intermediate portion 101 covers at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion of the connecting portion 100. Preferably, the intermediate portion 101 is configured to cover the portion of the second base portion 63B that is not covered by the first base portion 63A. The intermediate portion 101 is configured, for example, to cover the area where the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B contact. In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 101 has a flange portion 101E. The flange portion 101E is formed at one end of the intermediate portion 101 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The flange portion 101E is disposed between the flange portion 100B and the base portion 62 of the connecting portion 100 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The flange portion 101E contacts and covers the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B. The flange portion 101E can be formed to contact the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B. The flange portion 101E can be bonded to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the first end face 63E of the second base portion 63B via adhesive 99. Therefore, water is less likely to enter the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B, thus suppressing electro-corrosion at the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B. In a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the length of the portion of the intermediate portion 101 excluding the flange portion 101E is longer than the length of the second base portion 63B. The intermediate portion 101 can be formed to contact the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B. The intermediate portion 101 can be bonded to the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B and the portion of the first base portion 63A adjacent to the second end face 63F of the second base portion 63B via adhesive 99. As a result, water is less likely to enter the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B, and electro-corrosion at the interface between the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B can be suppressed. Before the assembly 40 is installed on the support portion 38 by the fastener 36, the flange portion 100B of the connecting portion 100 contacts the flange portion 101E of the intermediate portion 10.

[0236] The flange portion 101E is formed in an annular shape. The flange portion 101E is substantially annular. For example, the flange portion 101E includes at least one plane 101G on its outer peripheral surface 101F around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface 101F of the flange portion 101E includes a plurality of planes 101G. Two of the plurality of planes 101G are symmetrically arranged around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The plane 101G of the outer peripheral surface 101F of the flange portion 97B can abut against the abutment portion of the support portion 38. In this case, when the fastener 36 is installed, rotation of the intermediate portion 101 around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is prevented. A tool can be engaged with the outer peripheral surface 101F of the flange portion 101E. In this embodiment, the flange portion 101E of the intermediate portion 101 covers at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface 100E of the flange portion 100B of the connecting portion 100. In this embodiment, the flange portion 101E of the intermediate portion 101 covers the outer peripheral surface 100E of the flange portion 100B of the connecting portion 100 such that at least a portion of two planes 100F of the plurality of planes 100F of the connecting portion 100 is exposed. For example, one of the two planes 100F of the connecting portion 100 and one of the two planes 101G of the intermediate portion 101 are on the same plane. For example, another plane of the two planes 100F of the connecting portion 100 and another plane of the two planes 101G of the intermediate portion 101 are on the same plane. The flange portion 101E of the intermediate portion 101 may not cover the outer periphery of the flange portion 100B of the connecting portion 100.

[0237] Preferably, the intermediate portion 101 is bonded to the base portion 62 by an adhesive 99 provided in the hole 62A. The adhesive 99 can easily improve the bonding force between the intermediate portion 101 and the base portion 62. The adhesive 99 can be omitted.

[0238] Preferably, at least one of knurling that contacts the base 62 and a protrusion 101A that contacts the base 62 is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the intermediate portion 101. In this embodiment, the protrusion 101A that contacts the base 62 is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the intermediate portion 101 around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The protrusion 101A is formed, for example, in a manner that substantially covers the entire circumference of the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The protrusion 101A may be formed intermittently, for example, at intervals around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the intermediate portion 101 does not have a flange portion 101E, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the protrusion 101A and the width of the knurling are, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the intermediate portion 101. When the intermediate portion 101 has a flange portion 101E, the width of the protrusion 101A and the width of the knurling in the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 are, for example, 10% to 100% of the width of the portion of the intermediate portion 101 excluding the flange portion 101E. The knurling can be formed by planar knurling or by oblique knurling. In this embodiment, the protrusion 101A has an annular protrusion 101X that is continuous around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the intermediate portion 101 has knurling that contacts the base 62, the knurling that contacts the base 62 can be formed continuously around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 or it can be formed intermittently around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36.

[0239] Preferably, at least one of the knurling contacting the base 62 and the protrusion 101A contacting the base 62 is located away from the opening of the hole 62A. Preferably, at least one of the knurling and the protrusion 101A has a first contact portion 101B and a second contact portion 101C. The first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C are spaced apart in the extending direction of the hole 62A. The extending direction of the hole 62A includes a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. In this embodiment, the intermediate portion 101 has a protrusion 101A, and the protrusion 101A has a first contact portion 101B and a second contact portion 101C. The first contact portion 98B and the second contact portion 98C are each formed by a protrusion. Preferably, the first contact portion 101B is an enlarged diameter portion. Preferably, the second contact portion 101C is an enlarged diameter portion. In the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 101, the first contact portion 101B is located closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the second contact portion 101C. At least a portion of the adhesive 99 is disposed between the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C. Preferably, in the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 101, the outer diameter between the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the portion where the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C are located. Therefore, it is easy to dispose of the adhesive 99 in the portion between the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C. A portion of the adhesive 99 may be disposed between the flange portion 101E and the base portion 62 of the intermediate portion 101. A portion of the adhesive 99 may be disposed between the protrusion portion 101A and the base portion 62. Preferably, in the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 101, the maximum outer diameter of the third portion 101W, excluding the flange portion 101E, the first portion 101Y adjacent to the flange portion 101E, and the second portion 101Z having the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C, is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the second portion 101Z. When the intermediate portion 101 is pressed into the base 62, preferably, at least a portion of the second portion 101Z is moved away from the base 62. Preferably, the entire second portion 101Z can be moved away from the base 62. If at least a portion of the second portion 101Z of the intermediate portion 101 is moved away from the base 62, the adhesive 99 can be stably disposed between the second portion 101Z and the base 62. Preferably, in the outer peripheral portion 101V of the intermediate portion 101, the outer diameters of the portions adjacent to the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C are smaller than the maximum outer diameters of the portions where the first contact portion 101B and the second contact portion 101C are provided. For example, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the first contact portion 101B is larger than the width of the second contact portion 101C. In a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the first contact portion 101B is, for example, less than 500% of the width of the second contact portion 101C.

[0240] Preferably, the knurling 100C that contacts the intermediate portion 101 is formed on the outer periphery of at least a portion of the connecting portion 100. The knurling 100C is formed, for example, in a manner that substantially covers the entire circumference of the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The knurling 100C may be formed intermittently, for example, at intervals around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. When the connecting portion 100 does not have a flange portion 100B, the width of the knurling 100C in the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the connecting portion 100. When the connecting portion 100 has a flange portion 100B, the width of the knurling 100C in the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 is, for example, more than 10% and less than 100% of the width of the portion of the connecting portion 100 excluding the flange portion 100B. The knurling 100C is formed by planar knurling. In this embodiment, the knurling 100C has a plurality of protrusions 100X, which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction around the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 and extend in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36.

[0241] When the knurling 100C is provided in the connecting portion 100, preferably, the second knurling 101D, which contacts the knurling 100C of the connecting portion 100, is formed in the inner periphery of the intermediate portion 101. When the knurling 100C is formed by planar knurling, preferably, the second knurling 101D is formed by planar knurling. The knurling 100C and the second knurling 101D engage. In the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the second knurling 101D can be equal to, larger than, or smaller than the width of the knurling 100C. Preferably, the second knurling 101D is formed in the inner periphery of the intermediate portion 101, excluding the flange portion 100B. In the direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, the width of the second knurling 101D is, for example, 10% or more and 100% or less of the width of the intermediate portion 101.

[0242] For example, at least a portion of the second knurling 101D of the intermediate portion 101 is located further from the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the second contact portion 101C of the protrusion 101A of the outer peripheral portion, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. For example, at least a portion of the knurling 100C of the connecting portion 100 is located further from the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the first contact portion 101B of the protrusion 101A of the intermediate portion 101, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. For example, at least a portion of the knurling 100C of the connecting portion 100 is located further from the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the center of the connecting portion 100 in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. Preferably, in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36, at least a portion of the connecting portion 100 that is closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the knurling 100C preferably contacts the inner periphery 101U of the intermediate portion 101. For example, the maximum inner diameter of the portion of the intermediate portion 101 with the second knurling 101D is smaller than the maximum inner diameter of the portion of the intermediate portion 101 that is closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the second knurling 101D. For example, the maximum outer diameter of the portion of the connecting portion 100 with the knurling 100C is smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the portion of the connecting portion 100 that is closer to the head 36B of the fastener 36 than the knurling 100C.

[0243] Preferably, a fourth limiting portion 100S is formed on the outer periphery of the connecting portion 100. The fourth limiting portion 100S includes at least one recess 100T. The inner periphery of the intermediate portion 101 includes a fifth limiting portion 101S that contacts the fourth limiting portion 100S. The fifth limiting portion 101S includes at least one protrusion 101T that contacts at least one of the at least one recess 100T. The fourth limiting portion 100S is disposed between the knurled portion 100C and the flange portion 100B. In the fifth limiting portion 101S, at least one protrusion 101T is disposed between the second knurled portion 101D and the flange portion 101E. The fourth limiting portion 100S and the fifth limiting portion 101S contact each other in a direction parallel to the central axis C1 of the fastener 36. The contact between the fourth limiting portion 100S and the fifth limiting portion 101S about the central axis C1 of the fastener 36 means that they contact and thus restrict relative movement with the intermediate portion 101. Preferably, the fourth limiting portion 100S and the fifth limiting portion 101S have complementary shapes. The fourth limiting portion 100S may include at least one protrusion instead of at least one recess 100T, or may include at least one recess 100T and at least one protrusion. The fifth limiting portion 101S may include at least one recess instead of at least one protrusion 101T, or may include at least one protrusion 101T and at least one recess. The fourth limiting portion 100S and the fifth limiting portion 101S may be omitted. The second knurling 101D of the intermediate portion 101 and the knurling 100C of the connecting portion 100 may be omitted.

[0244] The first base portion 63A included in the second mounting portion 96B comprises a first material having a first standard electrode potential. Preferably, the first base portion 63A included in the second mounting portion 96B comprises a magnesium alloy. At least a portion of the housing 42 is integrally formed with the first base portion 63A as a single component. At least one of the inner periphery of the defining hole 62A of the second base portion 63B and the outer periphery of the second base portion 63B may comprise at least one of a metal oxide film and a coating.

[0245] The connecting portion 100 includes a second material having a second standard electrode potential. Preferably, the second material includes an aluminum alloy. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 100 is formed of an aluminum alloy. The aluminum alloy is, for example, ADC12. Preferably, the first standard electrode potential and the second standard electrode potential are different.

[0246] <Fourth Implementation>

[0247] Reference Figures 24-28 The component 40 of the fourth embodiment will now be described. Except for the difference in the structure of the reducer 40B, the component 40 of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the component 40 of the first embodiment. Therefore, for structures common to the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment will be used, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0248] The component 40 in this embodiment includes a housing 42, a motor 46 disposed in the housing 42, and a reducer 40B connected to the motor 46. The reducer 40B includes a plurality of gears 110.

[0249] The reducer 40B includes a first rotating body 112, a first rotating shaft 114, and a second rotating body 116. The diameter of the first rotating body 112 is larger than the diameter of the second rotating body 116. The first rotating body 112 is disposed on the output section 40A in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the output section 40A. The first rotating body 112 and the output section 40A are, for example, integrally formed as a single component. The first rotating body 112 and the output section 40A are, for example, made of metal. The first rotating body 112 and the output section 40A can also be separately formed and fixed in a manner that prevents relative rotation. The first rotating body 112 is, for example, made of resin. The first rotating shaft 114 has a rotating shaft CA that is different from the rotating shaft CM of the motor 46. The rotating shaft CA is substantially parallel to the rotating shaft CM of the motor 46. The second rotating body 116 is disposed on the first rotating shaft 114 via a third one-way clutch 40Y and is directly connected to the first rotating body 112 or connected to the first rotating body 112 via a ring member. In this embodiment, the second rotating body 116 is a gear with teeth on its outer periphery, and the first rotating body 112 is a gear with teeth on its outer periphery. The second rotating body 116 and the first rotating body 112 are directly connected by the meshing of the teeth of the second rotating body 116 with the teeth of the first rotating body 112. The first rotating body 112 and the second rotating body 116 can be indirectly connected by a ring component. The ring component includes, for example, a belt or a pulley. For example, if the first rotating body 112 and the second rotating body 116 are pulleys, the ring component can be a belt. For example, if the first rotating body 112 and the second rotating body 116 are sprockets, the ring component can be a chain. The first rotating shaft 114 is supported on the housing 42 via a pair of fourth bearings 41D and is rotatable relative to the housing 42. The pair of fourth bearings 41D respectively support the two axial ends of the first rotating shaft 114. One of the pair of fourth bearings 41D is supported in a recess provided on the first side surface of the housing 42. The other of the pair of fourth bearings 41D is supported in a recess provided on the inner periphery of the second side surface of the housing 42. The pair of fourth bearings 41D can be ball bearings, rolling bearings, or sliding bearings. A first rotating shaft 114 supports a second rotating body 116. The first rotating shaft 114 and the second rotating body 116 are coaxially arranged. The second rotating body 116 is formed in an annular shape and is located radially outside the first rotating shaft 114. A third one-way clutch 40Y may not be located between the second rotating body 116 and the first rotating shaft 114, but rather between the third rotating body 122 and the first rotating shaft 114.

[0250] The reducer 40B includes, for example, a first reduction section 118 and a second reduction section 120. The first reduction section 118 includes a first rotating body 112, a first rotating shaft 114, and a second rotating body 116. The second reduction section 120 is disposed between the motor 46 and the first reduction section 118 in a first power transmission path. Preferably, the second reduction section 120 includes a third rotating body 122, a second rotating shaft 124, and a fourth rotating body 126. The diameter of the third rotating body 122 is larger than the diameter of the fourth rotating body 126. The third rotating body 122 is configured to rotate integrally with the first rotating shaft 114, and its diameter is smaller than the diameter of the second rotating body 116. The third rotating body 122 and the first rotating shaft 114 are separately formed and fixed in a manner that prevents relative rotation. The first rotating shaft 114 is, for example, formed of metal. The third rotating body 122 is, for example, formed of resin or metal. The third rotating body 122 and the first rotating shaft 114 can be integrally formed as a single component. The second rotating body 116 and the third rotating body 122 are axially disposed between a pair of fourth bearings 41D on the first rotating shaft 114. The second rotating body 116 and the third rotating body 122 are respectively disposed adjacent to the pair of fourth bearings 41D. The fourth rotating body 126 is configured to rotate integrally with the second rotating shaft 124 and is directly connected to the third rotating body 122 or connected to the third rotating body 122 via a ring member. In this embodiment, the fourth rotating body 126 is a gear with teeth on its outer periphery, and the third rotating body 122 is a gear with teeth on its outer periphery. The fourth rotating body 126 is directly connected to the third rotating body 122 by meshing the teeth of the fourth rotating body 126 with the teeth of the third rotating body 122. The second rotating shaft 124 has a rotating shaft center CB that is different from the rotating shaft centers CM and CA. The rotating shaft center CB is substantially parallel to the rotating shaft centers CM and CA. The second rotating shaft 124 is supported on the housing 42 via a pair of fifth bearings 41E and is rotatable relative to the housing 42. A pair of fifth bearings 41E respectively support the two ends of the second rotating shaft 124 along its axial direction. The fifth bearings 41E can be ball bearings, rolling bearings, or sliding bearings.

[0251] In this embodiment, the reducer 40B further includes a third reduction section 128. The third reduction section 128 includes a fifth rotating body 130 and a sixth rotating body 132. The diameter of the fifth rotating body 130 is larger than the diameter of the sixth rotating body 132. The fifth rotating body 130 is disposed on the second side of the housing 42 relative to the fourth rotating body 126 in the axial direction of the input rotating shaft 12A. The fifth rotating body 130 is disposed on the second rotating shaft 124 in a manner that it rotates integrally with the second rotating shaft 124. The sixth rotating body 132 is disposed on the output shaft 46A in a manner that it rotates integrally with the output shaft 46A of the motor 46. The fourth rotating body 126 and the fifth rotating body 130 are disposed between a pair of fifth bearings 41E in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 124. The fourth rotating body 126 and the fifth rotating body 130 are respectively disposed adjacent to a pair of fifth bearings 41E. The sixth rotating body 132 can be integrally formed with the output shaft 46A of the motor 46 as a single component, or it can be separately formed from the output shaft 46A of the motor 46 and connected to the output shaft 46A. The sixth rotating body 132 is formed, for example, of metal or resin. The output shaft 46A of the motor 46 is formed, for example, of metal. In this embodiment, the sixth rotating body 132 is a gear with teeth on its outer periphery, and the fifth rotating body 130 is a gear with teeth on its outer periphery. The sixth rotating body 132 and the fifth rotating body 130 are directly connected by meshing of the teeth of the sixth rotating body 132 and the teeth of the fifth rotating body 130. When the first rotating body 112, the second rotating body 116, the third rotating body 122, the fourth rotating body 126, the fifth rotating body 130, and the sixth rotating body 132 are all gears, at least one pair of meshing gears can be used as spur gears or helical gears.

[0252] In this embodiment, the plurality of gears 110 includes a first rotating body 112, a second rotating body 116, a third rotating body 122, a fourth rotating body 126, a fifth rotating body 130, and a sixth rotating body 132. In this embodiment, the tooth portion 110A of at least one of the plurality of gears 110 comprises a thermosetting resin. Preferably, the thermosetting resin comprises at least one of polyaminoamide, phenol, and polyimide. Preferably, the tooth portion 110A comprises reinforcing fibers embedded in the thermosetting resin. Preferably, the reinforcing fibers comprise at least one of glass fiber, aromatic polyamide fiber, and potassium titanate fiber.

[0253] In this embodiment, at least one tooth 110A of the plurality of gears 110 comprises thermosetting resin. In this embodiment, the tooth 136A of the fifth rotating body 130 comprises thermosetting resin. The plurality of gears 110 includes a first gear 134 disposed on the output shaft 46A and a second gear 136 meshing with the first gear 134. In this embodiment, the first gear 134 is a sixth rotating body 132. In this embodiment, the second gear 136 is a fifth rotating body 130. The plurality of gears 110 includes a third gear 138 that rotates integrally with the second gear 136, and the third gear 138 and the shaft portion 136B of the second gear 136 are integrally formed as a single component. In this embodiment, the third gear 138 is a fourth rotating body 126. In this embodiment, the tooth 110A of at least one of the plurality of gears 110 is the tooth 136A of the second gear 136. In this embodiment, the shaft portion 136B is a second rotating shaft 124. The teeth 136A of the second gear 136 are made of thermosetting resin. In this embodiment, the first gear 134 is formed of metal. In this embodiment, the third gear 138 is formed of metal.

[0254] Preferably, the second gear 136 is separately constructed from the shaft portion 136B, and includes: the shaft portion 136B; and a tooth portion 136A, which is disposed on the shaft portion 136B in a manner that allows it to rotate integrally with the shaft portion 136B. Preferably, the shaft portion 136B is formed of metal. Preferably, the shaft portion 136B is formed of a hollow shaft. The shaft portion 136B may also be formed of a solid shaft. The tooth portion 136A is formed in a ring shape, and has a first connecting portion 140 in the inner peripheral portion 137B that connects to the shaft portion 136B. The tooth portion 136A includes an outer peripheral portion 137A, an inner peripheral portion 137B, and an intermediate portion 137C located between the outer peripheral portion 137A and the inner peripheral portion 137B. The tooth is formed in the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth portion 136A. In the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the width W1 of the inner peripheral portion 137B of the tooth portion 136A is smaller than the width W2 of the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth portion 136A.

[0255] In the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the width W3 of the middle portion 137C of the tooth portion 136A is smaller than the width W2 of the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth portion 136A. By setting the width W3 of the middle portion 137C and the width W2 of the inner peripheral portion 137B to be smaller than the width W2 of the outer peripheral portion 137A, the second gear 136 can be made lighter. At least one hole 137D extending axially along the shaft portion 136B can be formed in the inner peripheral portion 137B. The at least one hole 137D can be a through hole or a blind hole. When the at least one hole 137D includes multiple holes 137D, preferably, the multiple holes 137D are of the same shape and are arranged at equal intervals around the axis of the shaft portion 136B, and are arranged at positions that are rotationally symmetrical about the axis of the shaft portion 136B. By forming at least one hole 137D, the second gear 136 can be made lighter. Preferably, the width W2 is 10% to 90% of the widths W1 and W3. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the inner peripheral portion 137B of the tooth portion 136A is disposed between the two end faces of the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth portion 136A. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the middle portion 137C of the tooth portion 136A is disposed between the two end faces of the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth portion 136A. In this embodiment, the width W1 and the width W3 are equal. The width W1 may be smaller or larger than the width W3. The tooth portion 136A is a single component.

[0256] The two axial ends 136X of the shaft portion 136B are respectively provided with a first bearing connecting portion 136Y and a second bearing connecting portion 136Z, which are respectively connected to a pair of fifth bearings 41E. The diameters of the first bearing connecting portion 136Y and the second bearing connecting portion 136Z are smaller than the diameters of the portion of the shaft portion 136B other than the first bearing connecting portion 136Y and the second bearing connecting portion 136Z. In this embodiment, the diameter of the first bearing connecting portion 136Y is equal to the diameter of the second bearing connecting portion 136Z. The diameter of the first bearing connecting portion 136Y may be larger or smaller than the diameter of the second bearing connecting portion 136Z. In the radial direction of the tooth portion 136A, the first bearing connecting portion 136Y is disposed inside the tooth portion 136A. Preferably, the shaft portion 136B has a second connecting portion 142 connected to the first connecting portion 140 in the outer peripheral portion 136C. In the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the second connecting portion 142 is adjacent to the first bearing connecting portion 136Y.

[0257] The first connecting portion 140 includes an internally threaded portion 144. The second connecting portion 142 includes an externally threaded portion 146. The first connecting portion 140 includes a first portion 148, which has a larger inner diameter than the internally threaded portion 144 and is not threaded. In the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the internally threaded portion 144 is adjacent to the first portion 148. In the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the internally threaded portion 144 is located closer to the first bearing connecting portion 136Y than the first portion 148. The second connecting portion 142 includes a second portion 150, which has a larger outer diameter than the externally threaded portion 146, is not threaded, and is radially close to and opposite to or in contact with the first portion 148 of the second gear 136. In the axial direction of the shaft portion 136B, the externally threaded portion 146 is adjacent to the second portion 150. In the axial direction of shaft portion 136B, the external thread portion 146 is positioned closer to the first bearing connection portion 136Y than the second portion 150. In the axial direction of shaft portion 136B, the width W4 of the internal thread portion 144 is 10% to 100% of the width W1, preferably 30% to 70%. In the axial direction of shaft portion 136B, the width W6 of the external thread portion 146 is 10% to 100% of the width of the second connection portion 142, preferably 30% to 70%. The first portion 148 and the second portion 150 may be omitted.

[0258] Preferably, at least a portion of the first portion 148 contacts at least a portion of the second portion 150 in the radial direction of the second gear 136. This prevents the axis of the shaft portion 136B from tilting relative to the axis of the second gear 136 when connecting the gear 136A and the shaft portion 136B. Preferably, when the motor 46 applies a propulsive force to the manually driven vehicle 10, the motor 46 is configured to rotate the second gear 136 in the direction in which the first connecting portion 140 is screwed into the second connecting portion 142.

[0259] Component 40 also includes a washer 152. The washer 152 is disposed axially B on the shaft portion 136B, between at least one of the shaft portion 136B and the tooth portion 136A, and the third gear 138. The washer 152 has an engaging portion 154 that engages with the shaft portion 136B and at least one of the shaft portion 136B and the third gear 138. In this embodiment, the washer 152 is disposed axially B on the shaft portion 136B, between the tooth portion 136A and the third gear 138. The washer 152 is preferably formed of a metallic material. The washer 152 may be formed of a resin material. The washer 152 includes: an annular portion 152A; and an engaging portion 154 disposed on the inner periphery of the annular portion 152A. The engaging portion 154 includes at least one protrusion 152B projecting inwardly from the inner periphery of the annular portion 152A. The annular portion 152A and at least one protrusion 152B are integrally formed as a single component. A washer 152 is provided on the outer periphery of the shaft portion 136B. The washer is clamped between the tooth portion 136A and the third gear 138 by screwing the first connecting portion 140 into the second connecting portion 142. The minimum radius of the third gear 138 is larger than the maximum radius of the second portion 150. At least one protrusion 152B is provided between the inner periphery 137B of the tooth portion 136A and the third gear 138, and contacts the tooth portion 136A and the third gear 138. Preferably, at least a portion of the annular portion 152A is clamped between and contacts the tooth portion 136A and the third gear 138. The washer 152 is harder than the tooth portion 136A. The washer 152 is harder than the third gear 138. At least a portion of the washer 152 is disposed on the inner side of the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth 136A in the radial direction. The outer diameter of the washer 152 is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer peripheral portion 137A of the tooth 136A. In this embodiment, the outer diameter of the washer 152 is larger than the maximum radius of the third gear 138.

[0260] Preferably, at least one protrusion 152B comprises a plurality of protrusions 152B. The plurality of protrusions 152B are each formed in a plate shape. Each protrusion 152B is formed to extend radially along the washer 152 and tortuous relative to an axis passing through the center of each protrusion 152B from the base end toward the free end. In the state where the washer 152 is removed, or in the state before the washer 152 is installed, preferably at least a portion of each of the plurality of protrusions 152B protrudes further toward the axial side B1 of the shaft portion 136B than the surface of the shaft portion 136B in the annular portion 152A. Preferably, at least a portion of each of the plurality of protrusions 152B protrudes further toward the other side B2 of the axial side B of the shaft portion 136B in the annular portion 152A. A portion 153A of one of the plurality of protrusions 152B protruding to one side B1 of the axial direction B of the shaft portion 136B contacts the tooth portion 136A. A portion 153B of the plurality of protrusions 152B protruding to the other side B2 of the axial direction B of the shaft portion 136B contacts the third gear 138. Preferably, the portion 153A of the plurality of protrusions 152B protruding to one side B1 of the axial direction B of the shaft portion 136B engages with the tooth portion 136A. Preferably, the portion 153A of the plurality of protrusions 152B protruding to one side B1 of the axial direction B of the shaft portion 136B engages with the third gear. Preferably, the plurality of protrusions 152B are arranged at equal intervals around the axis of the shaft portion 136B and are arranged in a rotationally symmetrical manner around the axis of the shaft portion 136B.

[0261] <Fifth Implementation>

[0262] Reference Figure 29 and Figure 30 The component 40 of the fifth embodiment will now be described. The component 40 of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the fourth embodiment, except that the structure of the shaft portion 236B on which the tooth portion 236A in the second gear 136 is mounted is different. Therefore, for structures common to the first and fourth embodiments, the same reference numerals as those in the first and fourth embodiments will be added, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0263] The tooth 236A of component 40 in this embodiment differs from the tooth 136A of the fourth embodiment only in the structure of the inner peripheral portion 237B; the outer peripheral portion 137A and the middle portion 137C have essentially the same structure. The tooth 236A includes a first connecting portion 158 instead of the first connecting portion 140 of the fourth embodiment. The first connecting portion 158 includes a connecting member 156. In this embodiment, the tooth 236A is formed in a ring shape and has a first connecting portion 158 in the inner peripheral portion 237B, which is connected to the shaft portion 236B via the connecting member 156. In this embodiment, the tooth 136A is formed from multiple components. The tooth 136A includes: the first connecting portion 158; and a tooth body 159, which is disposed on the outer peripheral portion of the first connecting portion 158. The outer peripheral portion 137A and the middle portion 137C of the toothed portion 236A are formed of the same material as the toothed portion 136A in the fourth embodiment. The shaft portion 136B includes a second connecting portion 160 instead of the second connecting portion 142 in the fourth embodiment. The shaft portion 236B has a second connecting portion 160 on its outer peripheral portion, which is connected to the first connecting portion 158 via a connecting member 156.

[0264] The connecting member 156 is formed of a metallic material. The connecting member 156 includes a cylindrical portion 156A and a flange portion 156B. In the axial direction of the shaft portion 236B, the flange portion 156B is located at the end portion 156C of the cylindrical portion 156A adjacent to the third gear 138. The flange portion 156B extends radially outward from the outer periphery of the end portion 156C. The flange portion 156B has an annular shape. The tooth body 159 is fixed to the connecting member 156 by insert molding.

[0265] The connecting member 156 includes a sixth limiting portion 156D, which limits the relative movement of the tooth body 159 relative to the connecting member 156. The sixth limiting portion 156D is configured to prevent relative movement of the tooth body 159 relative to the connecting member 156 in the axial direction of the shaft portion 236B, and to prevent relative rotation of the tooth body 159 relative to the connecting member 156 about the axis of the shaft portion 236B. The sixth limiting portion 156D includes at least one of a recess 156E and a protrusion 156F. The outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 156A is provided with a recess 156E adjacent to the flange portion 156B. In this embodiment, the recess 156E is continuous around the entire circumference of the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 156A about the axis of the shaft portion 236B. The recess 156E may be formed intermittently about the axis of the shaft portion 236B on the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 156A. The cylindrical portion 156A is adjacent to the recess 156E and has a protrusion 156F. The protrusion 156F protrudes radially outward from the cylindrical surface of the second gear 136, which is rotated about the axis of the shaft portion. The protrusion 156F includes at least one protrusion 156F, and in this embodiment, the protrusion 156F includes multiple protrusions 156F. The multiple protrusions are formed by setting the outer peripheral surface 156G of the cylindrical portion 156A to a polygonal cylindrical shape. For example, at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface 156G of the cylindrical portion 156A in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft portion 236B is formed in the form of a regular polygon. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface 156G of the cylindrical portion 156A in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the shaft portion 236B is a regular dodecagon. Preferably, the shape of the first connecting portion 158 is rotationally symmetrical about the axis X of the shaft portion 236B. The recess 156E contacts the inner peripheral portion 159A of the tooth body 159. The protrusion 156F contacts the inner peripheral portion 159A of the tooth body 159. The outer peripheral portion 156X of the flange portion 156B and the side surface of the first bearing connection portion 136Y of the flange portion 156B contact the inner peripheral portion 159A of the tooth body 159.

[0266] The inner peripheral portion 156Y of the connecting member 156 has a seventh limiting portion 156Z, which limits the relative rotation of the first connecting portion 158 and the second connecting portion 160 about the axis X of the shaft portion 236B. The seventh limiting portion 156Z includes at least one of a recess and a convex portion. The inner peripheral portion 156Y of the connecting member 156 includes a first portion 156V, which is radially opposite to or in contact with the outer peripheral portion of the second connecting portion 160 of the second gear 136. The minimum inner diameter of the first portion 156V is larger than the maximum inner diameter of the seventh limiting portion 156Z. The inner peripheral surface 156W of the first portion 156V includes, for example, a cylindrical surface. The inner peripheral surface 156U of the seventh limiting portion 156Z is formed, for example, in a polygonal cylindrical shape. The seventh limiting portion 156Z is positioned further than the first portion 156V towards the first bearing connecting portion 136Y. The inner periphery of the cylindrical portion 156A is joined to the second connecting portion 160. For example, the second connecting portion 160 is pressed into the inner periphery of the cylindrical portion 156A. The outer periphery 160B of the second connecting portion 160 includes an eighth limiting portion 160A that contacts the seventh limiting portion 156Z. The eighth limiting portion 160A is formed in the outer periphery 160B of the second connecting portion 160. The eighth limiting portion 160A has a shape complementary to the seventh limiting portion 156Z.

[0267] The flange portion 156B contacts the third gear 138 in the axial direction B of the shaft portion 136B. After the tooth body 159 is fixed to the first connecting portion 158 by insert molding, the shaft portion 236B is pressed into the tooth portion 236A, thereby allowing suitable material to be used for the shaft portion 236B and the tooth body 159.

[0268] <Variation Example>

[0269] The descriptions related to the embodiments are examples of possible arrangements of the components for a human-powered vehicle according to this application, and are not intended to limit the arrangements. The components for a human-powered vehicle according to this application can take the form of, for example, variations of the embodiments shown below, and combinations of at least two mutually consistent variations. In the following variations, for parts common to the embodiments, the same reference numerals as in the embodiments are added and their descriptions are omitted.

[0270] • In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, a variation of the first embodiment, a variation of the second embodiment, and a variation of the third embodiment, the structure of the reducer 40B can be changed as in the fourth embodiment.

[0271] • In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the third embodiment, a variation of the first embodiment, a variation of the second embodiment, and a variation of the third embodiment, the structure of the reducer 40B can be changed as in the fifth embodiment.

[0272] In the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, variations of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third, and sixth rotating bodies 112, 116, 122, 126, and 132 may have the same structure as the second gear 136 in the fourth embodiment, instead of the fifth rotating body 130 or based thereon. In short, any gear included in the reducer 40B can be configured to include thermosetting resin.

[0273] In the first, second, third, and fifth embodiments, variations of the first, second, third, and fifth embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third, and sixth rotating bodies 112, 116, 122, 126, and 132 may have the same structure as the second gear 136 in the fifth embodiment, instead of the fifth rotating body 130 or based thereon. In short, any gear included in the reducer 40B can be configured to include thermosetting resin.

[0274] • In the first embodiment and its variations, the first internal thread portion 62B of the base 62 and the external thread portion 66A of the intermediate portion 66 are omitted, as follows: Figure 31 As shown, the middle portion 67 can be pressed into the hole 62A of the base portion 62. (As indicated...) Figure 31 As shown, the connecting portion 79 can be pressed into the hole 62A of the base portion 62. In this case, at least one of the intermediate portion 67 and the base portion 62 may include a limiting portion that restricts the relative rotation of the connecting portion 79 and the intermediate portion 90 with the base portion 62. The limiting portion is provided in at least one of the outer peripheral portion of the intermediate portion 67 and the inner peripheral portion of the base portion 62. In this case, the first internal thread portion 62B of the base portion 62 and the external thread portion 66A of the intermediate portion 66 are omitted.

[0275] In the first embodiment, the second embodiment, the fourth embodiment, a variation of the first embodiment, a variation of the second embodiment, and a variation of the fourth embodiment, the intermediate portions 66, 82, and 90 are the same as the intermediate portions 98 and 101 in the third embodiment, and may include rubber or resin. The intermediate portions 66, 82, and 90 are formed of a fourth material. Figure 32An intermediate portion 94 formed of rubber or resin is shown. The intermediate portion 94 can be formed separately from and bonded to the connecting portions 64, 80, and 88, or it can be embedded in and coated onto the connecting portions 64, 80, and 88. The flange portion 64B of the connecting portion 64 and the flange portion 80B of the connecting portion 80 can be formed of rubber or resin. The thickness of the intermediate portion 94 is 1 micrometer or more and 5 millimeters or less. When the flange portion 64B of the connecting portion 64 and the flange portion 80B of the connecting portion 80 are formed of rubber or resin, the flange portions 64B and 80B can be formed separately from the second internal thread portion 64A of the connecting portion 64 and the second internal thread portion 80A of the connecting portion 80, but integrally formed with the intermediate portion 94. An external thread portion can be formed on the outer periphery of the intermediate portion 94 as in the first embodiment. The outer periphery of the intermediate portion 94 may be formed with at least one of a recess and at least one of a protrusion, as in the second embodiment. The outer periphery of the intermediate portion 94 may be formed to include a cylindrical surface, and the mounting portion and the intermediate portion may be press-fitted into the hole 62A.

[0276] In the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, as well as variations of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, at least one first mounting portion 44A and at least one second mounting portion 44B can be arranged without spacing in a direction parallel to the rotation axis C2 of the input rotation shaft 12A. In this case, at least one first mounting portion 44A and at least one second mounting portion 44B are integrally formed, and the hole 62A of the first mounting portion 44A and the hole 62A of the second mounting portion 44B can communicate.

[0277] In the first, second, and fourth embodiments, variations of the first, second, and fourth embodiments, if the intermediate portions 66, 82, and 90 are formed of a third or fourth material, the material combination of the base 62, connecting portions 64, 80, and 88, and the intermediate portions 66, 82, and 90 can be appropriately modified. In short, when a fastener 36 whose material is prone to galvanic corrosion relative to the first material of the base 62 is selected, any combination can be used as long as it can suppress galvanic corrosion.

[0278] In the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and modified versions of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, component 40 may further include a speed change device configured to change the rotational speed of the output unit 40A relative to the rotational speed of the input rotational shaft 12A. In the first, second, third, and modified versions of the first, second, and third embodiments, component 40 may omit the motor 46 and the reducer 40B, and instead include a speed change device that changes the rotational speed of the output unit 40A relative to the rotational speed of the input rotational shaft 12A. The speed change device is located in the power transmission path between the input rotational shaft 12A and the output unit 40A. The speed change device is housed in the housing 42. The speed change device may include a stepped transmission, such as a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The speed change device may include, for example, a planetary gear mechanism, and may include multiple sprockets, chains, and derailleurs.

[0279] • In the third embodiment and its variations, such as Figure 33 As shown, the first base portion 63A and the second base portion 63B can be integrally formed into a single component.

[0280] In the third embodiment and its variations, if the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the base portion 62 is configured to be greater than the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97, the connection structure between the intermediate portion 98 and the base portion 62, and the connection structure between the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97, can be appropriately modified. For example, the intermediate portion 98 can be connected to the base portion 62 by a snap-fit ​​or a thread.

[0281] • In the third embodiment and its variations, the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the base portion 62 can be less than or equal to the bonding force between the intermediate portion 98 and the connecting portion 97.

[0282] In the third embodiment and its variations, if the bonding force between the intermediate portion 101 and the base portion 62 is configured to be greater than the bonding force between the intermediate portion 101 and the connecting portion 100, the connection structure between the intermediate portion 101 and the base portion 62, and the connection structure between the intermediate portion 101 and the connecting portion 100, can be appropriately modified. For example, the intermediate portion 101 can be connected to the base portion 62 by a snap-fit ​​or a thread.

[0283] In the third embodiment and its variations, the bonding force between the intermediate portion 101 and the base portion 62 can be greater than the bonding force between the intermediate portion 101 and the connecting portion 100. In this case, for example, the recessed portion 100T of the outer periphery of the connecting portion 100 and the convex portion 101T of the inner periphery of the intermediate portion 101 are omitted.

[0284] • In the fourth embodiment, the fifth embodiment, a variation of the fourth embodiment, and a variation of the fifth embodiment, gear 110 can be used for gears other than reducer 40B. In short, as long as the gear is configured to include: a shaft portion formed of metal; and a tooth portion comprising a thermosetting resin and disposed on the outer periphery of the shaft portion in a manner integrally rotatable with the shaft portion, the tooth portion being formed in a ring shape and having a first connecting portion connected to the shaft portion on its inner periphery, and the shaft portion having a second connecting portion connected to the first connecting portion on its outer periphery, the first connecting portion including an internal thread portion and the second connecting portion including an external thread portion, it can be applied to any device.

[0285] • In the fourth embodiment, the fifth embodiment, the modified version of the fourth embodiment, and the modified version of the fifth embodiment, the structure of the mounting part 44 of the component 40 can be appropriately modified as long as the component 40 can be mounted on the frame 18.

[0286] • In various embodiments and variations thereof, component 40 may not include the input rotation shaft 12A. For example, the input rotation shaft 12A may be configured to be detachable from component 40.

[0287] In each embodiment and its variations, the reducer 40B can be any structure as long as at least one gear 110 is made of thermosetting resin. For example, the reducer 40B can be a two-stage reduction gearbox including four gears 110, or a single-stage reduction gearbox including two gears 110.

[0288] In the third embodiment and its variations, the second mounting portion 96B can be configured with the same structure as the first mounting portion 96A, and the first mounting portion 96A can be configured with the same structure as the second mounting portion 96B. In the third embodiment and its variations, the first mounting portion 96A can be configured as follows: Figure 16 The structure shown has the second mounting part 96B configured as follows: Figure 33 The structure shown. In the third embodiment and its variations, the first mounting portion 96A can be configured as follows: Figure 33 The structure shown has the second mounting part 96B configured as follows: Figure 16 The structure shown.

[0289] The term "at least one" as used in this specification means "more than one" of the desired options. For example, if the number of options is 2, "at least one" means either "only one option" or "both of the two options." As another example, if the number of options is 3 or more, "at least one" means either "only one option" or "a combination of any two or more options."

[0290] Symbol explanation:

[0291] 10…human-powered vehicle, 36…fastener, 36A…external thread, 38…support, 40…component, 42…housing, 52…first housing, 54…second housing, 44…mounting, 46…motor, 62…base, 62A…hole, 62B…first internal thread, 64, 79, 80, 88…connecting, 64A, 80A, 88A…second internal thread, 64B, 80B…flange, 64C…tool engaging, 66, 67, 82, 90, 94…intermediate, 66A…external thread, 48…positioning, 48A…first protrusion, 48B…first recess, 50…insulating, 70…conductive, 71…conductive grease, 72…cap, 74…electrical connector, 74A…connecting terminal, 76…rib, 76A…first rib 76B…Second rib, 97…Connecting part, 97A…Second internal thread part, 97B…Flange part, 98A…Knurled, 98B…First contact part, 98C…Second contact part, 99…Adhesive, 100…Connecting part, 100A…Second internal thread part, 100B…Flange part, 100C…Knurled, 101…Intermediate part, 101A…Protrusion, 101B…First contact part, 101C…Second contact part, 110…Gear, 110A…Tooth part, 134…First gear, 136…Second gear, 136A, 236A…Tooth part, 136B, 236B…Shaft part, 138…Third gear, 140, 158…First connecting part, 142, 160…Second connecting part, 144…Internal thread part, 146…External thread part, 152…Washer.

Claims

1. A component for use in a human-powered vehicle, comprising: A housing, comprising a protrusion and a recess, the protrusion being disposed on the top of the wall portion of the recess; A motor, at least a portion of which is housed within the housing; A cover, which is mounted on the housing and covers the recess; and An electrical connector, wherein its connecting terminals are exposed in the space formed by the housing and the cover, and the connecting terminals are located in the recess. The cover includes multiple ribs. At least one of the plurality of ribs is located at the position covering the recess of the housing and is adjacent to the surrounding portion of the recess. At least one of the plurality of ribs is opposite to the protrusion in the protruding direction of the protrusion. At least one of the plurality of ribs is configured to suppress deformation of the space by contacting the recess or the protrusion of the housing.

2. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The ribs include multiple ribs with different minimum distances from the housing.

3. The component according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of ribs includes: At least one first rib, which extends along a first direction; and At least one second rib extends in a second direction different from the first direction.

4. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The housing is made of metal. The cover comprises a resin material.

5. A cover, detachably mounted to at least a portion of a housing housing a motor and having an electrical connector, wherein, The housing includes a protrusion and a recess, the protrusion being located at the top of the wall of the recess. A space is formed between the cover and the housing to expose the connection terminal of the electrical connector; the cover covers the recess, and the connection terminal is located in the recess. The cover includes multiple ribs. At least one of the plurality of ribs is located at the position covering the recess of the housing and is adjacent to the surrounding portion of the recess. At least one of the plurality of ribs is opposite to the protrusion in the protruding direction of the protrusion. At least one of the plurality of ribs is configured to suppress deformation of the space by contacting the recess or the protrusion of the housing.

6. The cover according to claim 5, wherein, The ribs include multiple ribs with different minimum distances from the housing.

7. The cover according to claim 6, wherein, The plurality of ribs includes: At least one first rib, which extends along a first direction; and At least one second rib extends in a second direction different from the first direction.

8. The cover according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein, The cover comprises a resin material.

Images