Hub for a human-powered vehicle

Abstract

A hub for a human-powered vehicle is provided, the hub comprising a hub axle, a hub body, a power generator, and a communication device. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle about an axis of rotation. The power generator is disposed between the hub axle and the hub body. The power generator is configured to generate electrical power through relative rotation between the hub axle and the hub body. The communication device is at least partially located outside of the hub body. The communication device comprises a wireless communicator configured to wirelessly communicate with a further wireless communicator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a wheel hub for a human-powered vehicle. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a wheel hub for a human-powered vehicle equipped with an electric power generating device. Background Technology

[0002] Some wheels used in human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) have a hub that rotatably supports the wheel. For example, the hub includes a hub axle and a hub body rotatably disposed around the hub axle. The hub axle is non-rotatably mounted to the frame of the human-powered vehicle. The hub body is coaxially connected to the hub axle such that the hub body is arranged radially outward relative to the hub axle. The hub body is connected to a rim that supports the tire. In some cases, the hub is equipped with an electrical generating device to generate electricity according to the drive of the human-powered vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, this disclosure relates to various features of wheel hubs for human-powered vehicles. As used herein, the term "human-powered vehicle" refers to a vehicle capable of being driven by at least human power, but excludes vehicles using only power sources other than human power. In particular, vehicles using only internal combustion engines as propulsion are not included in human-powered vehicles. Human-powered vehicles are generally assumed to be compact, light vehicles that sometimes do not require a license for driving on public roads. The number of wheels on a human-powered vehicle is not limited. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, unicycles and vehicles with three or more wheels. Human-powered vehicles include, for example, various types of bicycles such as mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, freight bikes, and recumbent bikes, as well as electric-assisted bicycles (E-bikes).

[0004] In view of the state of the prior art and according to a first aspect of this disclosure, a wheel hub for a human-powered vehicle is provided, the wheel hub essentially comprising a hub axle, a hub body, a power generator, and a communication device. The hub body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle about a rotation axis. The power generator is disposed between the hub axle and the hub body. The power generator is configured to generate electricity through relative rotation between the hub axle and the hub body. The communication device is at least partially located outside the hub body. The communication device includes a wireless communication device configured to wirelessly communicate with another wireless communication device.

[0005] Using the hub according to the first aspect, a hub with a wireless communication device capable of wireless communication with another wireless communication device can be provided.

[0006] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the first aspect further includes a housing disposed on one of the hub axle and the hub body, the housing being configured to at least partially accommodate the communication device.

[0007] The communication device can be protected by the housing using the hub according to the second aspect.

[0008] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the second aspect is configured such that the housing is non-rotatably connected to the hub axle.

[0009] The communication device can be statically supported relative to the hub axle by using the hub according to the third aspect.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the third aspect is configured such that the housing includes a first dimension extending in the axial direction of the hub shaft and a second dimension extending in the radial direction of the hub shaft, the first dimension being smaller than the second dimension.

[0011] By utilizing the hub according to the fourth aspect, a relatively thin shell can be provided in the direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the fourth aspect is configured such that the housing is separately disposed from the hub body.

[0013] By utilizing the hub according to the fifth aspect, the housing can be arranged in the desired position without being restricted by the hub body.

[0014] According to a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the third to fifth aspects is configured such that the housing includes a shaft receiving opening through which the hub shaft extends.

[0015] By utilizing the hub according to the sixth aspect, the diameter of the hub with the housing can be reduced.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the third to sixth aspects is configured such that the housing includes an electrical connector configured to connect to another component.

[0017] Using the hub according to the seventh aspect, electricity generated by the power generator can be supplied to other components via an electrical connector.

[0018] According to the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the third to seventh aspects is configured such that the housing includes a first part and a second part connected to each other.

[0019] The communication device can be easily installed in the housing using the hub according to the eighth aspect.

[0020] According to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the second aspect is configured such that, when viewed perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the housing at least partially overlaps with the hub body.

[0021] By utilizing the hub according to aspect nine, the axial dimension of the hub with the housing can be made smaller.

[0022] According to a tenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the ninth aspect is configured such that the housing is at least partially integral with the hub body.

[0023] Using the hub according to aspect ten, the hub body can be used at least partially to form the shell.

[0024] According to the eleventh aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to tenth aspects is configured such that the communication device includes an antenna configured to be connected to the wireless communication device.

[0025] Using the hub according to the eleventh aspect, the communication device can conduct wireless communication via an antenna.

[0026] According to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure, the hub of the eleventh aspect is configured such that the communication device includes circuitry electrically connected to the antenna.

[0027] Using the hub according to the twelfth aspect, the communication device can process signals transmitted or received via the antenna.

[0028] According to the thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the antenna is disposed separately from the circuit.

[0029] By utilizing the hub according to aspect thirteen, the antenna can be positioned at the desired location without being limited by the circuit.

[0030] According to the fourteenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the twelfth aspect is configured such that the antenna is integrated into the circuit.

[0031] By utilizing the hub according to aspect fourteen, the communication device can be made smaller.

[0032] According to the fifteenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the eleventh to fourteenth aspects is configured such that the antenna comprises a monopole antenna.

[0033] By utilizing the hub according to aspect fifteen, the size of the antenna can be reduced.

[0034] According to the sixteenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to fifteenth aspects is configured such that the communication device includes circuitry electrically connected to the power generator and the wireless communication device.

[0035] Using the hub according to the sixteenth aspect, the power generated by the power generator can be converted into a suitable voltage for the wireless communication device.

[0036] According to the seventeenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured such that the wireless communication device is electrically connected to a detector, the detector being configured to detect information relating to the riding status of the human-powered vehicle.

[0037] Using the hub according to the seventeenth aspect, signals can be wirelessly transmitted based on the detection results of the detector.

[0038] According to the eighteenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to the seventeenth aspect is configured such that the detector includes at least one of a speed detector and an acceleration detector.

[0039] Using the hub according to the eighteenth aspect, signals can be wirelessly transmitted based on the detection results of the speed detector or acceleration detector.

[0040] According to the nineteenth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to eighteenth aspects is configured such that the wireless communication device is electrically connected to a power storage device, the power storage device being electrically connected to the power generator, the power storage device being configured to store power generated from the power generator.

[0041] Using the hub according to aspect nineteen, power generated by the power generator can be stably supplied to the wireless communication device.

[0042] According to the twentieth aspect of this disclosure, the hub according to any one of the first to nineteenth aspects is configured such that the wireless communication device is electrically connected to a controller, the controller being configured to control at least one of the operating device and the operated device based on at least one of a communication signal associated with the communication device and information detected by the detector.

[0043] Using the hub according to aspect 20, at least one of the operating device and the operated device can be wirelessly controlled.

[0044] Furthermore, other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed wheel hub will become apparent to those skilled in the art through the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the wheel hub, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Now refer to the accompanying drawings that form part of this original disclosure:

[0046] Figure 1 It is a side elevation view of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) equipped with wheel hubs according to the embodiments shown in this disclosure.

[0047] Figure 2 It is attached according to one embodiment Figure 1 The image shows a front elevation view of the wheel hub of a human-powered vehicle.

[0048] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the wheel hub shown.

[0049] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 and 3 The hub shown Figure 3 The longitudinal sectional view observed from section line 4-4.

[0050] Figure 5 yes Figures 2 to 4 A partial exploded perspective view of the wheel hub shown.

[0051] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 The schematic block diagram of the wheel hub shown includes a connector assembly.

[0052] Figure 7 yes Figures 2 to 5 The outer perspective view of the connector assembly of the wheel hub shown.

[0053] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An inside perspective view of the connector assembly shown.

[0054] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 and 8 The external elevation view of the connector assembly shown.

[0055] Figure 10 yes Figures 7 to 9 The connector assembly shown is shown in the inner elevation view.

[0056] Figure 11 yes Figures 7 to 10 Rear elevation view of the connector assembly shown.

[0057] Figure 12 yes Figures 7 to 11 Front elevation view of the connector assembly shown.

[0058] Figure 13 It is set in Figures 2 to 5 The outer elevation view of the connector device on the hub axle of the wheel hub shown.

[0059] Figure 14 It is set in Figures 2 to 5 The diagram shows an outer elevation view of the connector assembly on the hub axle of the wheel hub, where the second part of the connector assembly housing has been removed.

[0060] Figure 15 yes Figures 7 to 12 An exploded perspective view of the connector assembly shown.

[0061] Figure 16 It is set in Figures 2 to 5 The diagram shows an outer elevation view of an alternative embodiment of the connector device on the hub axle of the wheel hub, wherein the second part of the housing of the connector device has been removed.

[0062] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the wheel hub, wherein the connector device is at least partially integrated with the wheel hub body.

[0063] Figure 18 This is a longitudinal sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the wheel hub, wherein the antenna and power storage device are disposed within the wheel hub body.

[0064] Figure 19 This is a longitudinal sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the wheel hub, wherein the antenna is disposed within the wheel hub body.

[0065] Figure 20 This is a longitudinal sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the wheel hub, wherein the antenna is arranged around the wheel hub body. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Selected embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art of human-powered vehicles (e.g., bicycles) from this disclosure that the following description of embodiments is provided for illustration only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0067] First refer to Figure 1 The illustration shows a human-powered vehicle B used in the illustrated embodiment. In the embodiments described below, human-powered vehicle B refers to a bicycle. Figure 1As shown, the human-powered vehicle B is a multi-purpose road bike or gravel bike, but it is not limited to use with such road bikes. The human-powered vehicle B essentially comprises a frame F, a fork FF, a front wheel FW, a rear wheel RW, handlebars H, and a drivetrain DT. The drivetrain DT essentially comprises a crankshaft CS, a pair of crank arms CA, a pair of pedals PD, multiple front sprockets FS, multiple rear sprockets RS, and a chain CN. The crank arms CA are mounted at opposite ends of the crankshaft CS. Each pedal PD is rotatably coupled to the distal end of a corresponding crank arm CA. The front sprockets FS are disposed on one of the crank arms CA. The rear sprockets RS are disposed on the rear hub RH of the rear wheel RW. In a first embodiment, the chain CN extends around the drivetrain DT, one of the front sprockets FS, and one of the rear sprockets RS. The driving force applied to the pedals PD by the rider of the human-powered vehicle B is transmitted to the rear wheel RW via the front sprockets FS, the chain CN, and the rear sprockets RS. Optionally, the human-powered vehicle B may include an electric drive unit to assist the rider's driving force. That is, the human-powered vehicle B may be an electric-assisted bicycle.

[0068] Here, the human-powered vehicle B also includes an electric rear derailleur RD for shifting the chain CN between the rear sprockets RS and an electric front derailleur FD for shifting the chain CN between the front sprockets FS. Each of the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD is operated by a shifting device or shifter SL. Although the shifting device SL is shown as controlling both the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD, it is apparent from this disclosure that each of the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD can be controlled by a separate shifting device. Here, the shifting device SL is an electric shifter with hydraulic braking function. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear derailleur RD and the front derailleur FD are examples of electric vehicle components or operated devices, while the shifting device SL is an example of an operating device.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle B also includes a height-adjustable seat post SP. The height-adjustable seat post SP is conventionally mounted to the seat post of the frame F and supports the bicycle seat or saddle S in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the height-adjustable seat post SP has an electric motor or actuator and is electrically adjustable in response to user input relative to the user operating device UOD. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the height-adjustable seat post SP is an example of an electric vehicle component or an operated device, while the user operating device UOD is an example of an operating device.

[0070] In some cases, the human-powered vehicle B may also include other electric vehicle components or operated devices. For example, the human-powered vehicle B may include an electrically adjustable suspension as an electric vehicle component or operated device. When the frame F has a swingarm configuration, the electrically adjustable suspension may be mounted to the front fork FF or mounted between the front frame body and the rear frame body. The stiffness and / or travel length of the electrically adjustable suspension may be electrically adjusted in response to, for example, user input relative to the user operating device UOD. In this case, the electrically adjustable suspension may be an example of an electric vehicle component or operated device, and the user operating device UOD may be an example of an operating device.

[0071] Furthermore, the human-powered vehicle B may include an electric braking device as an electric vehicle component or an operating device. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, as... Figure 1 As shown, the bicycle V includes a front brake unit FBD and a rear brake unit RBD. The front wheel FW has a front brake rotor via the front brake unit FBD and the rear brake unit RBD, causing the front brake rotor to rotate integrally with the front wheel FW, while the rear wheel RW has a rear brake rotor, causing the rear brake rotor to rotate integrally with the rear wheel RW. Furthermore, disc brake calipers are mounted to the frame F via the front brake unit FBD and the rear brake unit RBD to engage the front and rear brake rotors respectively in a conventional manner. Here, the disc brake calipers are, for example, hydraulically operated. The disc brake calipers are fluidly connected to the brake operating unit BOD via hydraulic hoses. Here, the front brake unit FBD and the rear brake unit RBD may have electric motors or actuators at the brake operating unit BOD. Specifically, the disc brake calipers are hydraulically operated in response to user operation relative to the brake operating unit BOD, via hydraulic pressure generated by the electric motor of the brake operating unit BOD. Here, the disc brake calipers are hydraulically operated by the hydraulic pressure generated by the electric motor of the brake operating unit BOD. However, disc brake calipers can be cable-actuated brakes, and are mechanically operated by mechanical force generated by the electric motor of the brake operating device BOD. In any case, the front brake device FBD and the rear brake device RBD can be examples of electric vehicle components or operated devices, while the brake operating device BOD can be an example of an operating device.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle B may include a battery pack BP that supplies power to electric vehicle components or operated devices, such as the rear derailleur RD, front derailleur FD, height-adjustable seatpost SP, electrically adjustable suspension, electric brakes, and any other electrically powered vehicle components. The battery pack BP may also supply power to operating devices, such as the shift control SL, user control UOD, brake control BOD, and any other electrically powered operating devices.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, a front hub FH (e.g., a hub for a human-powered vehicle) is provided for the human-powered vehicle B. The front hub FH supports the front wheel FW relative to the front fork FF, while the rear hub RH supports the rear wheel RW relative to the frame F. In the illustrated embodiment, the front hub FH includes a hub generator (energy harvesting power source) for supplying power to one or more electric vehicle components of the human-powered vehicle B. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the human-powered vehicle B includes a bicycle lamp or light source LP, and the hub generator supplies power to the bicycle lamp LP. In some cases, the hub generator may be located at the rear hub RH.

[0074] Now for reference Figures 2 to 5 The structure of the front wheel hub FH will now be described. Here, the front wheel hub FH includes a connector assembly 10. The detailed construction of the connector assembly 10 will be described in detail later. The front wheel hub FH also includes a hub axle 12, a hub body 14, and a power generator 16. Figure 3 The hub axle 12 has a central axis A1, which forms the axis of rotation of the hub body 14. The hub axle 12 is configured to be non-rotatably attached to the front fork FF of the frame F. The hub body 14 is rotatably mounted to the hub axle 12 about the central axis A1.

[0075] like Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the hub axle 12 is a rigid member made of a suitable material (e.g., a metallic material). Here, the hub axle 12 is a tubular member. The hub axle 12 can be a single piece or made of several pieces. Here, the hub axle 12 includes a body 12a and a pair of end pieces 12b. The end pieces 12b are non-rotatably mounted to both ends of the body 12a. Thus, both ends of the body 12a are received in the mounting openings of the fork FF. Here, each end piece 12b has a rotation-limiting surface 12c that engages with the fork FF, thereby limiting the rotation of the hub axle 12 relative to the fork FF.

[0076] Here, as Figure 2As shown, the front hub FH also includes a wheel retaining mechanism 18 for securing the hub axle 12 to the front fork FF. The wheel retaining mechanism 18 essentially includes an axle or spur 18a, a cam body 18b, a cam operating lever 18c, and an adjusting nut 18d, and is also referred to as a quick-release mechanism. The cam operating lever 18c is attached to one end of the spur 18a via the cam body 18b, while the adjusting nut 18d is threaded onto the other end of the spur 18a. The operating lever 18c is attached to the cam body 18b. The cam body 18b is coupled between the spur 18a and the cam operating lever 18c to move the spur 18a relative to the cam body 18b. Thus, the operating lever 18c is actuated to move the spur 18a axially relative to the cam body 18b along the central axis A1, thereby changing the distance between the cam body 18b and the adjusting nut 18d. Preferably, a compression spring is provided at each end of the spur 18a. Alternatively, the hub axle 12 may be non-rotatably attached to the fork FF using other attachment structures as needed and / or desired.

[0077] The hub body 14 is rotatably mounted around the hub shaft 12 to rotate in the drive rotation direction. The drive rotation direction corresponds to the forward drive direction of the front wheel FW. The hub body 14 is configured to support the front wheel FW in a conventional manner. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub body 14 includes a first outer flange 14a, a second outer flange 14b, and a brake disc support structure 14c. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b extend radially outward relative to the central axis A1. The first outer flange 14a and the second outer flange 14b are configured to receive a plurality of spokes ( Figure 1 ), so that the front wheel FW rim ( Figure 1 It is attached to the wheel hub body 14. In this way, the wheel hub body 14 and the front wheel FW are connected to rotate together. Furthermore, as... Figure 1 As shown, the brake disc support structure 14c non-rotatably supports the brake disc. Specifically, the disc brake support structure 14c and the brake disc are connected together to rotate together.

[0078] like Figure 4As shown, a power generator 16 is disposed between a hub shaft 12 and a hub body 14. The power generator 16 is configured to generate electricity through relative rotation between the hub shaft 12 and the hub body 14. The power generator 18 essentially comprises an armature 22 (i.e., a stator) and a magnet 24 (i.e., a rotor). Although the armature 22 is shown as fixed relative to the hub shaft 12 and the magnet 24 is shown as fixed relative to the hub body 14, the armature 22 may be fixed relative to the hub body 14 and the magnet 24 may be fixed relative to the hub shaft 12. The armature 22 includes a first yoke 22A, a second yoke 22B, and a coil 22C. The first yoke 22A includes two or more first yoke plates arranged circumferentially along the hub shaft 12. Similarly, the second yoke 22B includes two or more second yoke plates arranged circumferentially along the hub shaft 12 and alternating with the first yoke plates of the first yoke 22A. A coil 22C is located between the first yoke 22A and the second yoke 22B. The magnet 24 includes multiple magnet portions arranged within a tubular support 26. The tubular support 26 is fixedly connected to the interior of the hub body 14, such that the magnet 24 and the hub body 14 rotate together about the hub shaft 12. The magnet portions of the magnet 24 are arranged such that the S and N poles of the magnet portions alternate circumferentially along the hub shaft 12.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, connector device 10 is an electrical device that uses power generated by power generator 16 for wireless communication. Furthermore, connector device 10 also functions as an electrical connector for supplying power generated by power generator 16 to various electric vehicle components. In the illustrated embodiment, lamp LP is electrically connected to connector device 10 to receive power from power generator 16. Additionally, connector device 10 can wirelessly communicate with operating device OD and / or operated device TD.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the shift control device SL, user control device UOD, brake control device BOD, etc., are examples of the control device OD, while the rear derailleur RD, front derailleur FD, height-adjustable seatpost SP, electrically adjustable suspension, electric brake device, etc., are examples of the operated device TD. In the illustrated embodiment, the control device OD and the operated device TD include first and second wireless communication devices (e.g., additional wireless communication devices) WC1 and WC2, which can wirelessly communicate with the connector device 10. Specifically, the first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 are hardware devices capable of wirelessly transmitting and / or receiving analog or digital communication signals. The term "wireless communication device" as used herein includes receiver, transmitter, transceiver, transmitter-receiver, and contemplates any single or combined one or more devices capable of transmitting and / or receiving wireless communication signals, including commands or other signals related to some function of the controlled control device OD and the operated device TD. The wireless communication signal can be a radio frequency (RF) signal, an ultra-wideband communication signal, or a frequency in the 2.4 GHz band or 5.0 GHz band. Communication, or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the field of human-powered vehicles. The first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 can be unidirectional wireless communication devices; for example, they are transmitters if information only needs to be wirelessly output to connector device 10, or receivers if information only needs to be wirelessly input from connector device 10. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 are bidirectional wireless communication devices.

[0081] like Figure 4 and 6 As shown, connector assembly 10 includes communication device 30; therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the front wheel hub FH includes communication device 30. Furthermore, connector assembly 10 includes housing 32. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the front wheel hub FH also includes housing 32. Housing 32 is configured to at least partially house communication device 30. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, housing 32 includes electrical connector 34. In the illustrated embodiment, electrical connector 34 is configured to connect to lamp LP (e.g., another component). Figure 6 As also seen, the communication device 30 includes an electronic circuit board (e.g., a circuit) ECB and an antenna 36 electrically connected to the electronic circuit board ECB. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 includes an electronic circuit board ECB (e.g., a circuit) electrically connected to the antenna 36.

[0082] like Figures 2 to 5As shown, housing 32 is disposed to hub axle 12. Specifically, housing 32 is non-rotatably coupled to hub axle 12. More specifically, housing 32 includes a shaft receiving opening 37 through which hub axle 12 extends. Furthermore, housing 32 is disposed separately from hub body 14. Specifically, housing 32 is axially arranged relative to hub body 14 along central axis A1 and is disposed outside hub body 14. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 housed by housing 32 is also at least partially located outside hub body 14.

[0083] More specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, housing 32 is disposed between hub body 14 and front fork FF along central axis A1. Specifically, housing 32 is spaced apart from hub body 14 by a distance S1, and spaced apart from front fork FF by a distance S2. Distances S1 and S2 are preferably greater than 5 mm to ensure clearance between antenna 36 and adjacent conductive material (e.g., metal, carbon, etc.).

[0084] More specifically, such as Figures 7 to 15 As shown, the housing 32 includes a first portion 32a and a second portion 32b connected to each other. Specifically, the first portion 32a and the second portion 32b are fixedly connected to each other to define an internal space 38 between them. Figure 2 Preferably, the first part 32a and the second part 32b are rigid members made of a suitable material. For example, the first part 32a and the second part 32b are made of resin material and may be injection molded members.

[0085] like Figure 15 As shown, the first portion 32a includes an inner peripheral portion 40, an outer peripheral portion 42, an end wall portion 44, and a pair of connecting portions 46. The end wall portion 44 connects the inner peripheral portion 40 and the outer peripheral portion 42 to at least partially define the internal space 38 of the housing 32. The connecting portions 46 connect the inner peripheral portion 40 and the outer peripheral portion 42 to each other. Specifically, the connecting portions 46 extend parallel to each other from the inner peripheral portion 40 to the outer peripheral portion 42. The inner peripheral portion 40 at least partially defines the enclosed region 50. The first portion 32a also includes a central portion 52 having a central opening 54 in the enclosed region 50. Specifically, the central portion 52 extends radially inward from the inner peripheral portion 40 relative to the central axis A2 of the central opening 54. The outer peripheral portion 42 is radially spaced outward from the inner peripheral portion 40 relative to the central axis A2 of the central opening 54. The central axis A2 coincides with the central axis A1 of the hub shaft 12. Even if the central opening 54 is not a circular opening, the central axis A2 is defined as a central axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the central opening 54 defines a through opening for receiving the hub shaft 12.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 10 As shown, the outer peripheral portion 42 has an outer periphery having a curved section 42a, a first flat section 42b, a second flat section 42c, and a third flat section 42d. The curved section 42a extends approximately 180 degrees from the outer end of one of the connecting portions 46 around the central axis A2 of the central opening 54. The first flat section 42b extends tangentially from the curved section 42a toward the second flat section 42c. The first flat section 42b and the second flat section 42c are smoothly connected via a curved corner. The second flat section 42c extends parallel to the connecting portion 46. The third flat section 42d extends perpendicularly from the second flat section 42c toward the outer end of the other of the connecting portions 46 to form a right-angle corner 42e between the second flat section 42c and the third flat section 42d. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connector 34 is disposed at the corner 42e. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer peripheral portion 42 has a stepped section 42f with a decreasing thickness along the outer periphery of the outer peripheral portion 42.

[0087] The second part 32b includes an outer peripheral portion 62 and an end wall portion 64. The second part 32b is attached to the first part 32a such that the outer peripheral portion 62 surrounds the stepped section 42f of the first part 32a. Figure 9 and 13 As shown, the overall shape of the end wall portion 64 axially covers the entire first portion 32a, except for the electrical connector 34. The end wall portion 64 has a central opening 66, which has a central axis that coincides with the central axis A2.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 32b is attached to the stepped section 42f of the first portion 32a, such that the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral portion 62 of the second portion 32b and the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral portion 42 of the first portion 32a lie in the same plane. Figure 15 As shown, the first part 32a and the second part 32b are fastened together using a plurality of fasteners 68 (e.g., three screws). Of course, the first part 32a and the second part 32b may be fastened together in any other suitable manner as needed and / or desired.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 32 further includes a third portion 32c, which is non-rotatably coupled to the first portion 32a and the second portion 32b. The third portion 32c is configured to cover a recessed area of ​​the first portion 32a between the connecting portions 46 of the first portion 32a. The housing 32 is non-rotatably coupled to the hub shaft 12 by a washer 68. The washer 68 has a protrusion 68a that engages with a groove 12d of the hub shaft 12, and a plurality of protrusions 68b that engage with a plurality of notches 66a in the second portion 32b. Two additional washers 70 and 72 are also provided in the housing 32 to support the housing 32 on the hub shaft 12.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 32 is attached to the hub shaft 12 along an orientation in which the second flat section 42c extends horizontally and the human-powered vehicle B is in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface. Figure 2 , 11 As shown in Figure 12, the housing includes a first dimension or width W1 extending in the axial direction of the hub shaft 12 and a second dimension or diameter D1 extending in the radial direction of the hub shaft 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the first dimension W1 is measured parallel to the central axis A1 between the outer-facing surfaces of the end wall portions 44 and 64, while the second dimension D1 is measured perpendicular to the central axis A1 between the outer-facing surface of the second flat section 42c and the lowest point of the curved section 42a. In the illustrated embodiment, the first dimension W1 is smaller than the second dimension D1. Furthermore, the second dimension D1 is smaller than the diameter D2 of the hub body 14, which is the diameter of either the first outer flange 14a or the second outer flange 14b.

[0091] like Figure 14 and 15 As shown, an electronic circuit board (ECB) is disposed within an internal space 38 defined between a first portion 32a and a second portion 32b. In the illustrated embodiment, the ECB is attached to the first portion 32a by a plurality of fasteners 74 (e.g., three screws). The ECB has an overall shape corresponding to the shape of the internal space 38; specifically, the ECB includes at least one arcuate edge corresponding to the arcuate surface of the inner peripheral portion 40 of the first portion 32a of the housing 32. In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the ECB has a C-shape. However, the shape of the ECB can be modified or changed as needed and / or desired. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the ECB is formed from a single component or substrate. However, the ECB can be divided into multiple portions or substrates.

[0092] like Figure 6 , 14As shown in Figure 15, the communication device 30 includes a power storage device PS on an electronic circuit board ECB. The power storage device PS is configured to store power generated by the power generator 16. Specifically, the power storage device PS includes at least one capacitor and is connected via a first cable EC1. Figure 4 The power storage device PS is electrically connected to the power generator 16 to receive power generated by the power generator 16. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the power storage device PS is disposed separately from the power generator 16. However, alternatively, the power storage device PS may be disposed together with the power generator 16 within the hub body 14. Furthermore, the power storage device PS may be partially disposed together with the power generator 16. In this case, the power storage device PS may be formed of multiple power storage devices, a portion of which is disposed on the electronic circuit board ECB, and the remainder disposed together with the power generator 16 within the hub body 14. In the illustrated embodiment, as... Figure 4 As shown, the first cable EC1 is routed along the groove 12e of the hub shaft 12 and extends between the power generator 16 and the circuit board ECB. In the illustrated embodiment, the power storage device PS can rectify the AC power from the power generator 16 into DC power and can supply an output voltage of 5.0V. In the illustrated embodiment, the power storage device PS is electrically connected to the electrical connector 34, and therefore the power storage device PS can supply a 5.0V output voltage to the lamp LP via the electrical connector 34. Of course, the output voltage is not limited to this and can be different from 5.0V as needed and / or desired.

[0093] Specifically, the electrical connector 34 has a pair of connection terminals 34a that are electrically connected to the circuit board ECB via wires 34b. In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the end connector 76 of the lamp LP is connected to the electrical connector 34 via the second cable EC2 to supply a 5.0V output voltage from the power storage PS to the lamp LP.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 includes a detector 82 on an electronic circuit board ECB. Specifically, the detector 82 is configured to detect information related to the riding status of the human-powered vehicle B. In the illustrated embodiment, the detector 82 includes a rotation detection circuit 84 and a three-dimensional (3D) accelerometer 86. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the detector 82 includes at least one of a rotation detection circuit 84 (e.g., a velocity detector) and a 3D accelerometer 86 (e.g., an acceleration detector).

[0095] The rotation detection circuit 84 is electrically connected to the power generator 16 to detect the rotation of the front wheel FW by detecting the frequency of the AC power supply from the power generator 16 or the rotation pulses of the power generator 16. Of course, the rotation detection circuit 84 can be a different type of sensor used to detect the speed of the human-powered vehicle B. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the rotation detection circuit 84 is disposed separately from the power generator 16. However, the rotation detection circuit 84 can be a magnetic sensor configured to detect the movement of the magnet 24 of the power generator 16. In this case, the rotation detection circuit 84 is disposed together with the power generator 16. Alternatively, the rotation detection circuit 84 can be a set of magnetic sensors disposed separately from the power generator 16, and a magnet disposed together with the power generator 16. In this case, the rotation detection circuit 84 is disposed only partially with the power generator 16.

[0096] The 3D accelerometer 86 detects the motion or acceleration of the human-powered vehicle B in three dimensions. In the illustrated embodiment, the 3D accelerometer 86 is a mechanical accelerometer formed by a MEMS device. Of course, the 3D accelerometer 86 can be a different type of sensor used to detect the motion or acceleration of the human-powered vehicle B. Furthermore, the 3D accelerometer 86 can be placed at any other suitable location on the human-powered vehicle B.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, detector 82 further includes a first low-dropout regulator (LDO) 88 for 5.0V to 3.3V conversion and a second low-dropout regulator (LDO) 90 for 5.0V to 1.8V conversion. Using the first LDO 88 and the second LDO 90, rotation detection circuit 84 can receive a 3.3V voltage supply, while 3D accelerometer 86 can receive both 3.3V and 1.8V voltage supplies.

[0098] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 includes an electronic controller 92 on an electronic circuit board ECB. The electronic controller 92 includes at least one processor 92a that executes a predetermined control program. The at least one processor 92a may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor unit (MPU). As used herein, the term "electronic controller" refers to hardware that executes software programs and excludes human intervention. The electronic controller 92 also includes a memory 92b that stores various control programs and information for various control processes. The memory 92b includes any computer storage device or any non-transient computer-readable medium, with the sole exception of transient propagating signals. For example, the memory 92b includes both non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory includes at least one of, for example, read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), and flash memory. Volatile memory includes, for example, random access memory (RAM). Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic controller 92 is disposed separately from the power generator 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic controller 92 may also act as a controller for the entire system of the human-powered vehicle B. However, alternatively, the controller for the entire system of the human-powered vehicle B can be located at different locations on the human-powered vehicle B, such as at the operating device OD or the operated device TD.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 includes a wireless communication device 94. The wireless communication device 94 is disposed on an electronic circuit board ECB. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 is a hardware device capable of wirelessly transmitting and / or receiving analog or digital signals via an antenna 36. The term "wireless communication device" as used herein includes receiver, transmitter, transceiver, transmitter-receiver, and contemplates any single or combined device capable of transmitting and / or receiving wireless communication signals, including commands or other signals related to some function of the controlled operating device OD and the operated device TD. The wireless communication signal may be a radio frequency (RF) signal, an ultra-wideband communication signal, or a frequency having a frequency in the 2.4 GHz band or 5.0 GHz band. Communication, or any other type of signal suitable for short-range wireless communication as understood in the field of human-powered vehicles. The wireless communication device 94 can be a unidirectional wireless communication device, such as a receiver if information only needs to be wirelessly input from the operating device OD and the operated device TD. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 is a bidirectional wireless communication device. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 (e.g., additional wireless communication devices). Specifically, the wireless communication device 94 is configured to wirelessly transmit communication signals with and wirelessly receive communication signals from at least one of the first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 (e.g., additional wireless communication devices).

[0100] like Figure 6 As shown, the wireless communication device 94 is electrically connected to the power storage device PS, which is electrically connected to the power generator 16. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 includes a circuit board ECB (e.g., a circuit) electrically connected to the power generator 16 and the wireless communication device 94. Specifically, the wireless communication device 94 is electrically connected to the power storage device PS to receive a 5.0V voltage supply. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 94 is electrically connected to the detector 82. Specifically, the wireless communication device 94 is electrically connected to the rotation detection circuit 84 to receive an output pulse signal indicating the speed of the human-powered vehicle B. Additionally, the wireless communication device 94 is electrically connected to the 3D accelerometer 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 can communicate with the 3D accelerometer 86 using a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) and receive an output signal indicating the motion or acceleration of the human-powered vehicle B.

[0101] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 is electrically connected to the electrical controller 92, which is configured to control at least one of the operating device OD and the operated device TD based on at least one of a communication signal associated with the communication device 30 and information detected by the detector 82. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 communicates with the first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 to send and / or receive wireless communication signals, including commands or other signals related to some functions of the operating device OD and the operated device TD controlled by the electrical controller 92.

[0102] In some cases, the wireless communication device 94 can also support vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication. 5.1. In this configuration, the wireless communication device 94 can broadcast wireless communication signals including information indicating the speed of the human-powered vehicle B detected by the rotation detection circuit 84 and the motion or acceleration of the human-powered vehicle B detected by the 3D accelerometer 86. This broadcast communication signal can be received by a road receiver, such as a BLE 5.1 ​​receiver, installed on road infrastructure such as a smart pole, and can be delivered to other vehicles so that they can receive information related to the human-powered vehicle B, such as vehicle type, location, speed, heading, etc. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the wireless communication device 94 is configured to wirelessly transmit communication signals to the road receiver (e.g., another wireless communication device).

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication device 30 includes an antenna 36 configured to connect to a wireless communication device 94. Specifically, the antenna 36 is connected to the wireless communication device 94 to transmit and / or receive wireless communication signals. Figure 14 and 15 As shown, antenna 36 is disposed separately from circuit board ECB (e.g., circuitry). In other words, antenna 36 is disposed separately from wireless communication device 94 on circuit board ECB. Specifically, antenna 36 is electrically connected to circuit board ECB via antenna feed line or cable 36a. In the illustrated embodiment, antenna 36 is disposed within internal space 38 of housing 32.

[0104] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, antenna 36 comprises a monopole antenna. Antenna 36 is made of a metal plate. The dimensions of antenna 36 are designed such that antenna 36 can be installed within the internal space 38 of housing 32, with sufficient clearance from adjacent conductive material. Specifically, as Figure 14 As shown, antenna 36 is positioned spaced apart from circuit board ECB by a distance S3. In the illustrated embodiment, antenna 36 preferably has a length L1 of less than 35 mm. Furthermore, the distance S3 is preferably greater than 5 mm.

[0105] Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, antenna 36 is constructed and arranged to have suitable directivity for communication with the first and second wireless communication devices WC1 and WC2 or a road receiver. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, antenna 36 is preferably constructed and arranged such that when the human-powered vehicle B is in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface, the envelope of antenna 36 has a vertical power beamwidth (e.g., half-power beamwidth or 3dB beamwidth) of at least 90 degrees between the forward direction and the vertical upward direction of the human-powered vehicle B in the vertical plane, and a horizontal power beamwidth (e.g., half-power beamwidth or 3dB beamwidth) of at least 180 degrees between the lateral rightward direction and the lateral leftward direction of the human-powered vehicle B in the forward direction in the horizontal plane.

[0106] Preferably, in the illustrated embodiment, when the human-powered vehicle B is in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface, the antenna 36 is in an upright orientation such that the longitudinal direction of the antenna 36 is aligned with the vertical direction and has an omnidirectional radiation pattern in the horizontal plane. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, for V2X communication purposes, the antenna 36 is preferably configured to communicate with a road receiver located 40 meters away from the human-powered vehicle B.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 14 and 15 As shown, antenna 36 is separate from the circuit board ECB. However, antenna 36 can be positioned in different locations. Specifically, as... Figure 16 As shown, connector device 110 is disposed to the front wheel hub FH. Except that antenna 136 is disposed on the circuit board ECB, connector device 110 is functionally substantially the same as connector device 10. In other words, antenna 136 can be integrated into the circuit board ECB (e.g., circuitry). In this case, antenna 136 may include a chip antenna or patch antenna that can be mounted on the circuit board ECB. Therefore, in this case, antenna 136 is disposed together with wireless communication device 94 on the circuit board ECB. Of course, alternatively, antenna 136 may be disposed only partially with wireless communication device 94 on the circuit board ECB.

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 4 As shown, the housing 32 is disposed on the hub shaft 12 and is separate from the hub body 14. However, the housing 32 can be disposed in different locations and / or in different ways. Specifically, as... Figure 17 As shown, connector device 210 is disposed on the front wheel hub FH. Connector device 210 is functionally essentially the same as connector device 10, except that connector device 210 is designed to be disposed within the wheel hub body 14. Specifically, as... Figure 17 As shown, the connector assembly 210 includes a communication device 230 and an inner housing 232 that houses the communication device 230. The inner housing 232 is disposed within the hub body 14. Therefore, the inner housing 232 (e.g., a housing) is disposed within the hub body 14. Specifically, as Figure 17 As shown, the axial dimension of the power generator 216, which is functionally essentially the same as the power generator 16, is smaller than that of the power generator 16, so as to make room within the hub body 14, in which the inner housing 232 is disposed. In this case, the circuit board ECB and antenna 236 of the communication device 230 are also adjusted in size to fit within the inner housing 232. Furthermore, in this case, the antenna 236 can be disposed separately from the circuit board ECB, such as... Figure 14 and 15 As shown, or it can be set on the ECB of the circuit board, such as Figure 16As shown. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, as Figure 17 As shown, viewed from a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A1, the inner housing 232 (e.g., a housing) at least partially overlaps with the hub body 14. Furthermore, in this case, the hub body 14 itself acts as a housing for the communication device 230. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing for the communication device 230 is at least partially integrated with the hub body 14. Moreover, in this case, the circuit board ECB is disposed within the hub body 14 along with the power generator 216. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic controller of the circuit board ECB is disposed within the hub body 14 along with the power generator 216. Furthermore, the electronic controller may be formed by multiple processors, some of which are disposed on the circuit board ECB within the hub body 14 along with the power generator 216, while the remainder are disposed outside the hub body 14.

[0109] like Figure 17 As shown, the electrical connector 234 is separately disposed from the inner housing 232. Specifically, the electrical connector 234 is disposed on the outside of the hub body 14 and is electrically connected to the circuit board ECB via a third cable EC3. The third cable EC3 is routed from the circuit board ECB along the groove 12e of the hub shaft 12 and extends to the outside of the hub body 14. Moreover, in this case, the antenna 236 can be separately disposed from the inner housing 232. Specifically, the antenna feed line or cable can be routed from the circuit board ECB along the groove 12e of the hub shaft 12 and extend to the outside of the hub body 14.

[0110] Furthermore, according to alternative embodiments, Figure 4 Some components of the communication device 30 shown can be housed within the hub body 14. Specifically, such as... Figure 18 As shown, connector device 310 is disposed on the front wheel hub FH. Except for the inclusion of an internal unit 330, connector device 310 is functionally essentially the same as connector device 10. The internal unit 330 is designed to be disposed within the wheel hub body 14. Specifically, as... Figure 18 As shown, the connector device 310 includes a communication device 30 and a housing 32 disposed outside the hub body 14 and housing the communication device 30, as... Figure 4 The connector device 10 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 310 further includes an internal unit 330 having a circuit board ECB2 and an internal housing 332 for receiving the circuit board ECB2.

[0111] An inner housing 332 is disposed within the hub body 14. Therefore, the inner housing 332 (e.g., a housing) is disposed within the hub body 14. Specifically, as... Figure 18As shown, the power generator 316, which is functionally essentially the same as the power generator 16, has a smaller axial dimension than the power generator 16, to allow space within the hub body 14, in which the inner housing 332 is disposed. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 310 further includes an antenna 336 within the inner housing 332, rather than having an antenna 336 within the housing 32. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the antenna 336 is disposed on a circuit board ECB2 within the inner housing 332. The antenna 336 may be... Figure 16 The antenna 136 shown is of the same type as the antenna. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 310 also includes a power supply or power storage device PS within the inner housing 332. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the power storage device PS is disposed on a circuit board ECB2 within the inner housing 332 and is electrically connected to a power generator 316 to receive power from the power generator 316 via a fourth cable EC4 electrically connecting the power generator 316 and the circuit board ECB2.

[0112] like Figure 18 As shown, the circuit board ECB2 within the inner housing 332 is electrically connected to the circuit board ECB within the housing 32 via fifth and sixth cables EC5 and EC6 wired through the groove 12e of the hub shaft 12. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the circuit board ECB is electrically connected to the circuit board ECB2 via cable EC4 to receive power from the power storage PS on the circuit board ECB2. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the antenna 336 disposed on the circuit board ECB2 is electrically connected to the circuit board ECB via the sixth cable EC6, which acts as an antenna feed line or cable (e.g., Figure 6 (The wireless communication device 94 is shown). Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the power storage device PS and the antenna 336 are disposed separately from the communication device 30 and are disposed within the hub body 14.

[0113] Furthermore, according to alternative embodiments, Figure 4 Some components of the communication device 30 shown can be housed within the hub body 14. Specifically, such as... Figure 19 As shown, connector device 410 is disposed on the front wheel hub FH. Connector device 410 is functionally similar to connector device 10, except that it also includes an internal unit 430, the size of which is designed to be disposed within the wheel hub body 14. Specifically, as... Figure 19 As shown, the connector device 410 includes a communication device 30 and a housing 32 disposed outside the hub body 14 and accommodating the communication device 30, as... Figure 4 The connector device 10 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 410 further includes an internal unit 430 having an antenna 436 and an internal housing 432 accommodating the antenna 436.

[0114] The inner housing 432 is disposed inside the hub body 14. Therefore, the inner housing 432 (e.g., a housing) is disposed within the hub body 14. Specifically, as... Figure 19 As shown, the power generator 416, which is functionally substantially the same as the power generator 16, has a smaller axial dimension than the power generator 16 to allow space within the hub body 14, in which the inner housing 432 is disposed. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 410 includes an antenna 436 within the inner housing 432, rather than having an antenna 36 located within the housing 32. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the antenna 436 is disposed within the inner housing 432 and is electrically connected to the circuit board ECB (e.g., via an antenna feed line or cable 436a wired through the groove 12e of the hub shaft 12). Figure 6 (The wireless communication device 94 is shown). Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the circuit board ECB is electrically connected to the power generator 416 to receive power from the power generator 416 via the seventh cable EC7. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the antenna 436 is separately disposed from the communication device 30 and is located within the hub body 14.

[0115] Furthermore, according to alternative embodiments, Figure 4 Some components of the communication device 30 shown can be mounted on the hub body 14. Specifically, such as... Figure 20 As shown, connector device 510 is disposed on the front wheel hub FH. Connector device 510 is functionally essentially the same as connector device 10, except that it also includes an internal or remote unit 530 and a receiving portion 540. The internal or remote unit 530 is sized to be disposed within the wheel hub body 14, and the receiving portion 540 is disposed around the outer surface of the wheel hub body 14 as part of the wheel hub body 14. Specifically, as... Figure 20 As shown, the connector device 510 includes a communication device 30 and a housing 32 disposed outside the hub body 14 and housing the communication device 30, as... Figure 4 The connector device 10 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 510 further includes an internal unit 530 having an internal housing 532 and a receiving portion 540 for receiving an antenna 536, such that the antenna 536 is disposed around the outer surface of the hub body 14.

[0116] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the inner housing 532 is disposed within the hub body 14. Therefore, the inner housing 532 (e.g., a housing) is disposed within the hub body 14. In particular, as... Figure 20As shown, the power generator 516, which is functionally essentially the same as the power generator 16, has a smaller axial dimension than the power generator 16, to allow space within the hub body 14, in which the inner housing 532 is disposed. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit board ECB is electrically connected to the power generator 516 to receive power from the power generator 516 via the seventh cable EC7. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the antenna 536 is separately disposed from the communication device 30.

[0117] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector device 510 includes an antenna 536 disposed on the hub body 14, rather than having an antenna 36 within the housing 32. Specifically, in Figure 20 In the illustrated embodiment, the hub body 14 is disposed together with a receiving portion 540 that houses the antenna 536. The receiving portion 540 includes a non-metallic portion that covers the antenna 536. Specifically, the non-metallic portion is formed of a resin material to avoid communication interference with the antenna 536.

[0118] Antenna 536 is electrically connected to the circuitry of circuit board ECB disposed within housing 32 via an antenna feed line or cable 536a wired through a groove 12e in hub shaft 12. Furthermore, antenna 536 is electrically connected to antenna feed line 536a via a mechanical connection having a brush 542 and a resistor 544. Specifically, brush 542 is disposed to one of the rotating and stationary portions of front hub FH, while resistor 544 is disposed to the other. In the illustrated embodiment, receiving portion 540 is disposed together with brush 542, and inner housing 532 is disposed together with resistor 544. Brush 542 is also connected to antenna 536 via a cable extending through a communication hole disposed to hub body 14, and resistor 544 is connected to antenna feed line 536a, which is also electrically connected to the circuitry of circuit board ECB. Therefore, as the hub body 14 rotates, the housing portion 540 rotates relative to the circuit board ECB and the inner housing 532, and the brush 542 remains in contact with the resistor 544, such that the antenna 536 remains electrically connected to the circuitry of the circuit board ECB. Alternatively, the housing portion 540 and the circuit board ECB may each include a short-range wireless communication device to transmit signals between the antenna 536 and the circuit board ECB.

[0119] In addition, Figure 17 In the configuration shown, the antenna 236 can also be positioned around the hub body 14 and separate from the circuit board ECB. In this case, the antenna 236 can be... Figure 20 The antenna 536 shown is similarly mounted on the hub body 14, and is constructed using methods such as... Figure 20 The mechanical connection shown, featuring brushes and resistors, is electrically connected to a circuit board ECB housed within the internal housing 232. Similarly, in Figure 18In the configuration shown, the antenna 336 can also be positioned around the hub body 14 and separate from the circuit board ECB2. In this case, the antenna 336 can be... Figure 20 The antenna 536 shown is similarly mounted on the hub body 14, and is constructed using methods such as... Figure 20 The mechanical connection shown has a brush and a resistor, while the circuit board ECB2 is electrically connected to the internal housing 332.

[0120] In understanding the scope of this invention, the term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of said features, elements, components, groups, integrals, and / or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integrals, and / or steps. The foregoing also applies to words with similar meanings, such as the terms "comprising," "having," and their derivatives. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the terms "component," "segment," "part," "building," or "element," when used in the singular, may have a dual meaning of a single component or multiple components.

[0121] As used herein, the following directional terms "forward," "backward," "front," "rear," "up," "down," "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," "side," "vertical," "horizontal," "vertical," and "lateral," as well as any other similar directional terms, refer to those directions of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position and equipped with a wheel hub. Therefore, these directional terms used to describe a wheel hub should be interpreted relative to a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle) in an upright riding position on a horizontal surface and equipped with a wheel hub. The terms "left" and "right" are used to indicate "right" as viewed from the right side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle), and "left" as viewed from the left side when viewed from the rear of a human-powered vehicle (e.g., a bicycle).

[0122] As used in this disclosure, the phrase “at least one of…” refers to “one or more” of the desired choices. As an example, the phrase “at least one of…” as used in this disclosure refers to “only one single choice” or “both of two choices” if the number of choices is two. As another example, the phrase “at least one of…” as used in this invention refers to “only one single choice” or “any combination of two or more choices” if the number of choices is three or more. Furthermore, the term “and / or” as used in this disclosure refers to “either one or both”.

[0123] Furthermore, it will be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. Thus, for example, without departing from the teachings of the invention, the first component discussed above may be referred to as the second component, and vice versa.

[0124] As used herein, the terms “attached” or “attached” encompass constructions in which an element is directly fixed to another element by attaching it directly to that element; indirectly fixed to another element by attaching it to one or more intermediate members, which in turn are attached to another element; and where one element is integral with another, i.e., one element is substantially part of another element. This definition also applies to words with similar meanings, such as “connection,” “link,” “joint,” “install,” “combine,” “fix,” and their derivatives. Finally, degree terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” and “approximately” as used herein refer to a deviation of such magnitude that the final result is not significantly altered.

[0125] Although only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, those skilled in the art will understand from this disclosure that various changes and modifications may be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, unless otherwise specifically stated, the size, shape, position, or orientation of various components may be changed as needed and / or desired, provided that such changes do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, directly connected or contacting components may have intermediate structures arranged between them, provided that such changes do not substantially affect their intended function. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the function of one element may be performed by two elements, and vice versa. The structure and function of one embodiment may be adopted in another embodiment. All advantages are not necessarily present simultaneously in a particular embodiment. Each feature unique compared to the prior art, individually or in combination with other features, should also be considered as a separate description by the applicant of further inventions, including structural and / or functional concepts embodied by such features(s). Therefore, the foregoing description of embodiments of the invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A wheel hub for a human-powered vehicle, the wheel hub comprising: Hub axle; A hub body, which is rotatably mounted on the hub axle about a rotation axis; A power generator is disposed between the hub axle and the hub body, and the power generator is configured to generate electricity through relative rotation between the hub axle and the hub body; as well as A communication device, at least partially located outside the hub body, the communication device comprising a wireless communication device and an antenna, the wireless communication device being configured to wirelessly communicate with another wireless communication device, and the antenna being configured to be connected to the wireless communication device; as well as A housing disposed on one of the hub axle and the hub body, the housing including a shaft receiving opening through which the hub axle extends, and the housing at least partially accommodating the antenna of the communication device within its internal space.

2. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, The housing is non-rotatably connected to the hub axle.

3. The wheel hub according to claim 2, wherein, The housing includes a first dimension extending in the axial direction of the hub shaft and a second dimension extending in the radial direction of the hub shaft, wherein the first dimension is smaller than the second dimension.

4. The wheel hub according to claim 3, wherein, The housing is separate from the hub body.

5. The wheel hub according to claim 2, wherein, The housing includes an electrical connector configured to connect to another component.

6. The wheel hub according to claim 2, wherein, The housing comprises a first part and a second part that are connected to each other.

7. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the housing at least partially overlaps with the hub body.

8. The wheel hub according to claim 7, wherein, The housing is at least partially integrated with the hub body.

9. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, The communication device includes a circuit that is electrically connected to the antenna.

10. The wheel hub according to claim 9, wherein, The antenna is set separately from the circuit.

11. The wheel hub according to claim 9, wherein, The antenna is integrated into the circuit.

12. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, The antenna includes a monopole antenna.

13. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, The communication device includes a circuit that is electrically connected to the power generator and the wireless communication device.

14. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication device is electrically connected to the detector, which is configured to detect information related to the riding status of the human-powered vehicle.

15. The wheel hub according to claim 14, wherein, The detector includes at least one of a velocity detector and an acceleration detector.

16. The wheel hub according to claim 1, wherein, The wireless communication device is electrically connected to a power storage device, which is electrically connected to the power generator. The power storage device is configured to store power generated by the power generator.

17. The wheel hub according to claim 14, wherein, The wireless communication device is electrically connected to a controller, which is configured to control at least one of an operating device and an operated device based on at least one of a communication signal associated with the communication device and information detected by the detector.

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