Assembly for a human-powered vehicle and external unit for a human-powered vehicle

Abstract

The present application provides a kind of components for human-powered vehicle and external unit for human-powered vehicle to facilitate availability.The components for human-powered vehicle have: housing, with the mounting portion of communication unit including position information detection portion can be detachably mounted;Control portion, which is provided in the housing;Electric connection portion, with the electrical connector that can be detachable relative to the communication unit, and is electrically connected with the control portion;And electrical component, which is controlled by the control portion;The position information detection portion is configured to be able to obtain information related to position by receiving radio waves from the outside, and the control portion is configured to communicate with the communication unit via the electric connection portion in the state that the electrical connector is connected to the communication unit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an assembly for a human-powered vehicle and an external unit for a human-powered vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, the assembly for a human-powered vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a wireless communication section.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT DOCUMENT

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6408579 SUMMARY

[0006] (PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION)

[0007] An object of the present application is to provide an assembly for a human-powered vehicle and an external unit for a human-powered vehicle that contribute to improved usability.

[0008] (Technical Solution to Solve the Problems)

[0009] The assembly according to the first aspect of the present application is an assembly for a human-powered vehicle, including: a housing having a mounting portion that detachably mounts a communication unit including a position information detection section; a control section provided to the housing; an electrical connection portion having an electrical connector that is detachable with respect to the communication unit and is electrically connected to the control section; and an electrical component that is controlled by the control section; the position information detection section is configured to be able to acquire information related to a position by receiving an electric wave from the outside, and the control section is configured to communicate with the communication unit via the electrical connection portion in a state in which the electrical connector is connected to the communication unit.

[0010] According to the assembly of the first aspect, the communication unit is mounted to the assembly via the electrical connector, so the control section is able to communicate with the communication unit via the electrical connection portion. Therefore, the control section is able to communicate with the communication unit by a simple procedure, so this contributes to improved usability. According to the assembly of the first aspect, since the communication unit includes the position information detection section, the position information of the assembly in which the communication unit is mounted can be detected. Therefore, this contributes to improved usability.

[0011] In the assembly according to the second aspect of the first aspect of the present application, the housing includes a peripheral portion having a recess that accommodates at least a portion of the communication unit, and the electrical connector is disposed in the recess.

[0012] According to the assembly of the second aspect, by disposing the electrical connector in the recess, the electrical connector is less likely to protrude from the recess, so the electrical connector is protected.

[0013] In the assembly according to the third aspect of the second aspect of the present application, the recess accommodates the entire communication unit.

[0014] According to the assembly of the third aspect, the entire communication unit is accommodated in the recess, and thus the communication unit is protected.

[0015] In the assembly according to the fourth aspect of the second or third aspect of the present application, a cover member that is detachable with respect to the housing in a manner of covering the recess is further included.

[0016] According to the assembly of the fourth aspect, entry of water and foreign matter such as dust into the recess can be suppressed.

[0017] In the assembly according to the fifth aspect of the fourth aspect of the present application, the cover member is formed of a resin material.

[0018] According to the assembly of the fifth aspect, the cover member can be appropriately formed of a resin material. According to the assembly of the fifth aspect, since the cover member is formed of a resin material, the position information detection portion can appropriately receive an electric wave from the outside even when the position information detection portion is covered.

[0019] In the assembly according to the sixth aspect of any one of the first to fifth aspects of the present application, when the mounting portion is not mounted with the communication unit, the control portion is configured to restrict the function of the electric component.

[0020] According to the assembly of the sixth aspect, by detaching the communication unit from the mounting portion, the control portion can restrict the function of the electric component.

[0021] In the assembly according to the seventh aspect of any one of the first to sixth aspects of the present application, a first storage portion that stores first identification information is further included, the communication unit includes a second storage portion that stores second identification information, and when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information, the control portion is configured to restrict the function of the electric component.

[0022] According to the assembly of the seventh aspect, when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information, the function of the electric component can be restricted.

[0023] In the assembly according to the eighth aspect of any one of the first to seventh aspects of the present application, in a state where the mounting portion is mounted with the communication unit, the assembly is configured to be able to supply power to the communication unit.

[0024] According to the assembly of the eighth aspect, in a state where the mounting portion is mounted with the communication unit, power can be supplied to the communication unit, and thus the communication unit can operate using the power from the assembly.

[0025] In the component according to the ninth aspect of any one of the first to eighth aspects of the present application, the communication unit further includes a wireless communication section configured to perform at least one of receiving a control signal from an external device and transmitting a control signal to the external device, and the control section is configured to control the wireless communication section.

[0026] According to the component of the ninth aspect, at least one of the reception and the transmission of the control signal with the external device can be performed by the wireless communication section.

[0027] The component according to the tenth aspect of the present application is a component for a human-powered vehicle, which includes a housing having a mounting portion to which a communication unit is detachably attached, a control section provided to the housing, an electrical connection portion having an electrical connector detachable with respect to the communication unit, a first storage section storing first identification information, and an electrical component controlled by the control section, the communication unit including a wireless communication section performing at least one of receiving a control signal from an external device and transmitting a control signal to the external device, and a second storage section storing second identification information, the electrical connection portion being electrically connected to the wireless communication section, the control section being configured to communicate with the communication unit via the electrical connection portion in a state where the electrical connector is connected to the communication unit, and the control section being configured to restrict a function of the electrical component when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information.

[0028] According to the component of the tenth aspect, the function of the electrical component can be restricted when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information. Therefore, the user carries the communication unit corresponding to the first identification information, thereby contributing to the prevention of the theft of the human-powered vehicle, and thus the usability can be improved.

[0029] In the component according to the eleventh aspect of any one of the first to tenth aspects of the present application, the electrical component includes at least one of an electric motor of a drive unit that imparts a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, a first electric actuator of a transmission, a switch of an operating device, a second electric actuator of an electric brake, a third electric actuator of an electric suspension, and a fourth electric actuator of an electric adjustable seat post.

[0030] According to the component of the eleventh aspect, in the component provided with the electrical component, the electrical component includes at least one of an electric motor of a drive unit that imparts a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, a first electric actuator of a transmission, a switch of an operating device, a second electric actuator of an electric brake, a third electric actuator of an electric suspension, and a fourth electric actuator of an electric adjustable seat post, and thus the usability can be improved.

[0031] In the assembly according to the twelfth aspect of any one of the sixth, seventh, and tenth aspects of the present application, the electric component includes a second electric actuator of an electric brake, and when the function of the electric component is limited, the control section is configured to control the second electric actuator so that the operation state of the electric brake is maintained in a braking operation state in which the electric brake operates.

[0032] The assembly according to the twelfth aspect, when the function of the electric component is limited, the control section controls the second electric actuator so that the operation state of the electric brake is maintained in a braking operation state in which the electric brake operates. Therefore, the movement of the human-powered vehicle is limited, and thus it is possible to contribute to the prevention of theft of the human-powered vehicle.

[0033] The external unit according to the thirteenth aspect of the present application is an external unit for a human-powered vehicle, and includes the communication unit according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the communication unit including a display section that can display information related to the assembly.

[0034] The external unit according to the thirteenth aspect, the display section can display information related to the assembly, and thus it is possible for the user to easily grasp information related to the assembly.

[0035] In the external unit according to the fourteenth aspect of the thirteenth aspect of the present application, an operation section for operating the assembly is included.

[0036] The external unit according to the fourteenth aspect, the user can operate the assembly by the operation section.

[0037] Inventive effect

[0038] The assembly for a human-powered vehicle and the external unit for a human-powered vehicle of the present application contribute to the improvement of usability. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including the assembly for a human-powered vehicle and the external unit for a human-powered vehicle of the first embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an electric structure of a human-powered vehicle including the assembly for a human-powered vehicle and the external unit for a human-powered vehicle of the first embodiment. Figure 1

[0041] Figure 3 is a first side view of the transmission unit of the first embodiment. Figure 1

[0042] Figure 4 is a second side view of the transmission unit of the first embodiment. Figure 1

[0043] ​​​Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along the D5-D5 line of Figure 3

[0044] Figure 6 Figure 4

[0045] Figure 7 Figure 2

[0046] Figure 8

[0047] Figure 9 Figure 8

[0048] Figure 10 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] <EMBODIMENT>

[0050] Referring to Figures 1-7 , the assembly 50 for a human-powered vehicle and the external unit 90 for a human-powered vehicle will be described. The human-powered vehicle is a vehicle having at least one wheel and capable of being driven at least by human power. The human-powered vehicle includes various bicycles such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a hand cycle, and a recumbent bicycle, for example. The number of wheels of the human-powered vehicle is not limited. The human-powered vehicle also includes a unicycle and a vehicle having two or more wheels, for example. The human-powered vehicle is not limited to a vehicle driven only by human power. The human-powered vehicle includes an E-bike (electric bicycle) propelled by not only human power but also driving force of an electric motor. The E-bike includes an electrically assisted bicycle assisted in propulsion by an electric motor. Hereinafter, in each embodiment, the human-powered vehicle will be described as an electrically assisted bicycle.

[0051] ​​​​​​​​​The human-powered vehicle 10 includes at least one wheel 12 and a vehicle body 14. The at least one wheel 12 includes a front wheel 12F and a rear wheel 12R. The vehicle body 14 includes a frame 16. The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a crank 18 for input of human-powered force. The crank 18 includes a crank shaft 20 rotatable with respect to the frame 16, crank arms 22A, 22B. The crank arms 22A, 22B are provided at ends in an axial direction X of the crank shaft 20, respectively. Pedals 24A, 24B are attached to the crank arms 22A, 22B.

[0052] The frame 16 is connected with a front fork 26. The front wheel 12F is mounted to the front fork 26. A handlebar 28 is connected to the front fork 26 via a stem 30. The rear wheel 12R is supported to the frame 16. In the present embodiment, the crank 18 is connected with the rear wheel 12R through a drive mechanism 32. The rear wheel 12R is driven by rotation of the crank shaft 20. At least one of the front wheel 12F and the rear wheel 12R can be connected with the crank 18 through the drive mechanism 32.

[0053] The drive mechanism 32 includes a first rotating body 34 connected with the crank shaft 20. The first rotating body 34 includes a front sprocket. The first rotating body 34 can include a pulley or a bevel gear. The crank shaft 20 can be connected with the front sprocket via a one-way clutch.

[0054] The drive mechanism 32 further includes a second rotating body 36 and a transmission member 38. The transmission member 38 is configured to transmit a rotational force of the first rotating body 34 to the second rotating body 36. The transmission member 38 includes a chain. The transmission member 38 can include a belt or a transmission shaft. The second rotating body 36 includes a rear sprocket. The second rotating body 36 can include a pulley or a bevel gear. For example, the chain is wound around the front sprocket and the rear sprocket. For example, the second rotating body 36 is connected with the rear wheel 12R. The rear wheel 12R is configured to rotate with rotation of the second rotating body 36.

[0055] The human-powered vehicle 10 includes an assembly 50. The assembly 50 for the human-powered vehicle includes a housing 52, a control portion 54 provided to the housing 52, an electrical connection portion 56, and an electrical component 58 controlled by the control portion 54. For example, the assembly 50 includes at least one of a transmission unit 50A, a speed changer 50B, an operation device 50J, an electric brake 50C, an electric suspension 50D, and an electric adjustable seat post 50E.

[0056] The electric components 58 include at least one of the electric motor 60 of the transmission unit 50A configured to impart a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10, the first electric actuator 58A of the transmission 50B, the switch 58B of the operation device 50J, the second electric actuator 58C of the electric brake 50C, the third electric actuator 58D of the electric suspension 50D, and the fourth electric actuator 58E of the electric adjustable seat post 50E. In the present embodiment, the assembly 50 for the human-powered vehicle includes the transmission unit 50A. In the present embodiment, the electric components 58 include the electric motor 60.

[0057] The transmission 50B is configured to be provided in the human-powered vehicle 10 in the transmission path of the human-powered force and to be used to change the transmission ratio R. The transmission 50B has a plurality of transmission stages. The transmission ratios R corresponding to the respective transmission stages are different from each other. The number of transmission stages is, for example, in the range of 3 to 30.

[0058] The transmission ratio R refers to the ratio of the rotational speed W of the drive wheel with respect to the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20. In the present embodiment, the drive wheel is the rear wheel 12R. The rotational speed W of the drive wheel and the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20 can each be the number of rotations per unit time. The rotational speed W of the drive wheel can also be replaced by the number of teeth of the first rotation body 34, and the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20 can be replaced by the number of teeth of the second rotation body 36. The relationship between the transmission ratio R, the rotational speed W of the drive wheel, and the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20 can be expressed by Equation (1).

[0059] Equation (1): R = W / C

[0060] For example, the transmission 50B includes at least one of a built-in transmission, a front derailleur, and a rear derailleur. When the transmission 50B includes the built-in transmission, the built-in transmission is provided, for example, at the hub of the rear wheel 12R. The built-in transmission can also include a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

[0061] When the transmission 50B includes the front derailleur, the transmission 50B is provided at the first rotation body 34. When the transmission 50B includes the front derailleur, for example, the first rotation body 34 includes a plurality of front sprockets. When the transmission 50B includes the rear derailleur, the transmission 50B is provided at the second rotation body 36. When the transmission 50B includes the rear derailleur, the second rotation body 36 includes a plurality of rear sprockets. The transmission 50B includes an electric transmission configured to act by the first electric actuator 58A. The first electric actuator 58A includes, for example, an electric motor.

[0062] For example, the electric brake 50C is configured to be provided to the frame 16 and the front fork 26, and to apply a braking force to the wheel 12. The electric brake 50C can be a disc brake, can be a rim brake, or can be a roller brake. For example, the electric brake 50C includes a second electric actuator 58C. The second electric actuator 58C includes, for example, an electric motor.

[0063] For example, the electric suspension 50D includes at least one of a rear suspension and a front suspension. For example, the electric suspension 50D absorbs an impact applied to the wheel 12. The electric suspension 50D can be a hydraulic suspension, or can be an air suspension.

[0064] The electric suspension 50D includes a first suspension portion 50G and a second suspension portion 50H that is embedded in the first suspension portion 50G and is relatively movable with the first suspension portion 50G. For example, the operation state of the electric suspension 50D includes a locked state and a locked release state.

[0065] For example, when the operation state of the electric suspension 50D is the locked state, the relative movement of the first suspension portion 50G and the second suspension portion 50H is restricted. For example, the locked state of the electric suspension 50D includes a state in which the first suspension portion 50G and the second suspension portion 50H slightly relatively move when the wheel 12 receives a strong force. For example, when the operation state of the electric suspension 50D is the locked release state, the relative movement of the first suspension portion 50G and the second suspension portion 50H is allowed. The operation state of the electric suspension 50D can include, instead of or in addition to the locked state and the locked release state, at least one of a plurality of operation states in which a damping force is different and a plurality of operation states in which a stroke amount is different.

[0066] The electric suspension 50D includes a third electric actuator 58D for operating the electric suspension 50D. The third electric actuator 58D includes an electric motor. The third electric actuator 58D can also include a solenoid instead of the electric motor. For example, the third electric actuator 58D switches the operation state of the electric suspension 50D.

[0067] When the electric suspension 50D includes the rear suspension, the rear suspension is provided to the frame 16 of the human-powered vehicle 10, for example. When the electric suspension 50D includes the rear suspension, the rear suspension is provided between the frame body and the swing arm that supports the rear wheel 12R in the frame 16, for example. The rear suspension absorbs an impact applied to the rear wheel 12R.

[0068] When the electric suspension 50D includes the front suspension, the front suspension is configured to be provided between the frame 16 and the front wheel 12F, for example. When the electric suspension 50D includes the front suspension, the front suspension is provided to the front fork 26, for example. The front suspension absorbs an impact applied to the front wheel 12F.

[0069] For example, the electrically adjustable seat post 50E includes a fourth electric actuator 58E. The fourth electric actuator 58E includes an electric motor. The fourth electric actuator 58E can also include a solenoid instead of the electric motor. For example, the electrically adjustable seat post 50E is provided to a seat tube. For example, the electrically adjustable seat post 50E is configured to change the height of the seat.

[0070] For example, the electrically adjustable seat post 50E includes an electric seat post or a mechanical seat post. For example, the electric seat post has a structure in which the seat post is extended and retracted by the force of the electric actuator. For example, the mechanical seat post has a structure in which the seat post is extended by at least one of the force of a spring and the force of air by controlling a valve using the force of the electric actuator, and is retracted by applying human power. The mechanical seat post includes a hydraulic seat post or a hydraulic and pneumatic seat post.

[0071] For example, the operation device 50J is configured to operate at least one of the transmission unit 50A, the transmission 50B, the electric brake 50C, the electric suspension 50D, and the electrically adjustable seat post 50E. For example, the operation device 50J is configured to output an operation signal for switching the assist mode. For example, the operation device 50J is provided to the handlebar 28. For example, the operation device 50J includes a switch 58B. The switch 58B includes an electric switch that is switched on and off according to the movement of an operation member provided to the operation device 50J.

[0072] For example, the human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a battery 40. The battery 40 includes one or a plurality of battery elements. The battery element includes a rechargeable battery. For example, the battery 40 is configured to supply power to the assembly 50. The battery 40 is communicably connected to the assembly 50 via a cable or a wireless communication device. The battery 40 can communicate with the assembly 50, for example, by Power Line Communication (PLC), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter).

[0073] The transmission unit 50A includes an electric motor 60 that imparts a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10, a speed reducer 62, and an output portion 64. The electric motor 60 is, for example, a brushless motor. When the electric motor 60 rotates in a first motor rotation direction, the electric motor 60 outputs a motor drive force so as to impart a propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle 10. The electric motor 60 outputs a larger motor drive force as a larger power is supplied.

[0074] The transmission unit 50A has a vehicle frame mounting portion 52A for mounting to the vehicle frame 16. The vehicle frame mounting portion 52A is provided, for example, to an outer peripheral portion 52J of the housing 52. The vehicle frame mounting portion 52A includes, for example, at least one of a hole and an internally threaded portion. The housing 52 is mounted to the vehicle frame 16, for example, by engaging a bolt to at least one of the hole and the internally threaded portion of the vehicle frame mounting portion 52A and the vehicle frame 16.

[0075] The housing 52 rotatably supports the crankshaft 20, for example. The housing 52 includes a first housing 52B, a second housing 52C, and a motor cover member 52D, for example. The first housing 52B includes a first side portion 52E. The second housing 52C includes a second side portion 52F. The housing 52 forms an internal space SA. The first housing 52B and the second housing 52C form the internal space SA, for example. The first housing 52B and the second housing 52C are mounted together by a bolt, for example.

[0076] At least a portion of the crankshaft 20, the electric motor 60, the speed reducer 62, at least a portion of the output portion 64, and the like are disposed in the internal space SA of the housing 52, for example. The first housing 52B functions as a housing of the electric motor 60, for example. The motor cover member 52D is provided to the first housing 52B and forms a motor disposition space together with the first housing 52B, for example. The motor cover member 52D is mounted to the first housing 52B by a bolt, for example.

[0077] The housing 52 includes a first hole 52G and a second hole 52H into which the crankshaft 20 is inserted, for example. The first hole 52G and the second hole 52H respectively communicate the internal space SA of the housing 52 with an external space SB of the housing 52. The first hole 52G is formed in the first side portion 52E of the housing 52 in the axial direction X of the crankshaft 20. The second hole 52H is formed in the second side portion 52F of the housing 52 in the axial direction X of the crankshaft 20.

[0078] The output portion 64 has a first rotation center axis C1, for example. The output portion 64 is disposed coaxially with the crankshaft 20. The output portion 64 is configured to transmit a rotational force of the crankshaft 20. The output portion 64 substantially has a cylindrical shape, for example. The output portion 64 is provided to an outer peripheral portion of the crankshaft 20 around the first rotation center axis C1, for example.

[0079] The output portion 64 is configured to be connected to the drive wheel of the human-powered vehicle 10 via the transmission member 38, for example. The output portion 64 is configured to be connected to the transmission member 38 via the second rotation body 36, for example. The output portion 64 is configured to be connected to the transmission member 38 via a sprocket, a pulley, or a bevel gear that constitutes the second rotation body 36, for example.

[0080] For example, the power transmission member 66 is provided on the crankshaft 20. For example, the power transmission member 66 is configured to transmit a rotational force input to the crankshaft 20 to the output portion 64. For example, the power transmission member 66 substantially has a cylindrical shape. For example, the power transmission member 66 is disposed on the crankshaft 20 in a manner of surrounding an outer peripheral portion of the crankshaft 20 about the first rotation center axis C1.

[0081] For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a first one-way clutch 68. For example, the first one-way clutch 68 is configured to cause the crankshaft 20 to rotate integrally with the output portion 64 when the crankshaft 20 rotates forward. The first one-way clutch 68 is configured to allow the crankshaft 20 to rotate relatively to the output portion 64 when the crankshaft 20 rotates backward. For example, the first one-way clutch 68 includes a roller clutch, a wedge clutch, or a ratchet clutch. For example, the output portion 64 is connected to the power transmission member 66 via the first one-way clutch 68, and the power transmission member 66 is connected to the crankshaft 20. For example, at least a portion of the first one-way clutch 68 is disposed between an inner peripheral portion of the output portion 64 and an outer peripheral portion of the power transmission member 66.

[0082] For example, the first end portion 20A of the crankshaft 20 protrudes from the first hole 52G to the outside space SB of the housing 52. For example, the second end portion 20B of the crankshaft 20 protrudes from the second hole 52H to the outside space SB of the housing 52. For example, the first bearing 70A is disposed in the second hole 52H. For example, the crankshaft 20 is rotatably supported to the housing 52 via the first bearing 70A with respect to the housing 52. For example, the first bearing 70A can be a ball bearing, can be a roller bearing, or can be a sliding bearing.

[0083] For example, the second bearing 70B is disposed in the first hole 52G. For example, the output portion 64 is rotatably provided to the housing 52 via the second bearing 70B with respect to the housing 52. For example, the second bearing 70B is provided to an outer peripheral portion of the output portion 64. The second bearing 70B can be a ball bearing, can be a roller bearing, or can be a sliding bearing.

[0084] For example, the third bearing 70C is disposed between an inner peripheral portion of the power transmission member 66 and an outer peripheral portion of the crankshaft 20. For example, the power transmission member 66 rotatably supports the crankshaft 20 via the third bearing 70C. For example, the fourth bearing 70D is disposed between an inner peripheral portion of the output portion 64 and an outer peripheral portion of the crankshaft 20. For example, the output portion 64 rotatably supports the crankshaft 20 via the fourth bearing 70D. For example, the third bearing 70C and the fourth bearing 70D include a needle bearing or a sleeve.

[0085] For example, at least a portion of the first one-way clutch 68 is arranged so as to overlap the third bearing 70C in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation center axis C1. For example, at least a portion of the second bearing 70B is arranged so as to overlap the fourth bearing 70D in a direction perpendicular to the first rotation center axis C1. For example, the output portion 64 has a third end portion 64A in a direction parallel to the first rotation center axis C1. For example, a coupling portion that couples the first rotation body 34 is provided at an outer peripheral portion of the third end portion 64A. For example, the coupling portion has one or a plurality of splines that extend in the axial direction X of the crankshaft 20.

[0086] For example, the electric motor 60 includes a motor output shaft 60A. For example, the crankshaft 20 is arranged substantially in parallel to the motor output shaft 60A. For example, the housing 52 functions as a housing of the electric motor 60. The electric motor 60 can also have a housing that is formed separately from the housing 52. When the electric motor 60 has a housing, the housing of the electric motor 60 can be attached to the housing 52. The housing of the electric motor 60 can also be attached to the outer peripheral portion 52J of the housing 52.

[0087] For example, the speed reducer 62 includes at least one speed reduction portion. For example, the at least one speed reduction portion includes a first speed reduction portion 72, a second speed reduction portion 74, and a third speed reduction portion 76. The speed reducer 62 can include one, two, or four or more speed reduction portions. The first speed reduction portion 72 includes a first gear 72A, a first rotation shaft 72B, and a second gear 72C. The diameter of the first gear 72A is larger than the diameter of the second gear 72C. For example, the first gear 72A is formed integrally with the output portion 64. For example, the first gear 72A is provided at an outer peripheral portion of the output portion 64. The first gear 72A and the output portion 64 can be formed separately and attached so as not to be able to rotate relative to each other. For example, the first rotation shaft 72B has a second rotation center axis C2 that is different from the first rotation center axis C1. For example, the second rotation center axis C2 is substantially parallel to the first rotation center axis C1.

[0088] For example, the second gear 72C is provided to the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the second gear 72C is formed in a ring shape and arranged on the radially outer side of the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the second gear 72C is connected to the first gear 72A. The first speed reduction portion 72 can also be indirectly connected using a belt and a pulley instead of the first gear 72A and the second gear 72C. The first speed reduction portion 72 can also be indirectly connected using at least one of a sprocket and a chain instead of the first gear 72A and the second gear 72C. For example, the second gear 72C is supported to the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the second gear 72C is arranged coaxially with the first rotation shaft 72B.

[0089] For example, the first rotation shaft 72B is rotatably supported with respect to the housing 52 via a fifth bearing 70E and a sixth bearing 70F. For example, the fifth bearing 70E is provided to the first housing 52B. For example, the sixth bearing 70F is provided to the second housing 52C. For example, the fifth bearing 70E and the sixth bearing 70F support both end portions of the first rotation shaft 72B in the axial direction, respectively. For example, the fifth bearing 70E supports the fourth end portion 72D of the first rotation shaft 72B in the axial direction. For example, the sixth bearing 70F supports the fifth end portion 72E of the first rotation shaft 72B in the axial direction. For example, the fifth bearing 70E and the sixth bearing 70F can be ball bearings, can be roller bearings, or can be sliding bearings.

[0090] For example, the second reduction portion 74 is provided between the electric motor 60 and the first reduction portion 72. For example, the second reduction portion 74 includes a third gear 74A, a second rotation shaft 74B, and a fourth gear 74C. For example, the diameter of the third gear 74A is larger than the diameter of the fourth gear 74C. For example, the third gear 74A is provided to the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the third gear 74A is provided to the fifth end portion 72E of the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the third gear 74A is configured to rotate integrally with the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the diameter of the third gear 74A is smaller than the diameter of the second gear 72C. For example, the third gear 74A is formed separately from the first rotation shaft 72B and is mounted so as not to rotate relatively. The third gear 74A and the first rotation shaft 72B can be formed integrally.

[0091] For example, the second gear 72C and the third gear 74A are arranged between the fifth bearing 70E and the sixth bearing 70F in the axial direction of the first rotation shaft 72B. For example, the second gear 72C is arranged in abutment with the fifth bearing 70E. For example, the third gear 74A is arranged in abutment with the sixth bearing 70F.

[0092] For example, the fourth gear 74C is configured to rotate integrally with the second rotation shaft 74B. For example, the fourth gear 74C is connected to the third gear 74A. For example, the fourth gear 74C is formed integrally with the second rotation shaft 74B. The fourth gear 74C and the second rotation shaft 74B can be formed separately and mounted so as not to rotate relatively.

[0093] For example, the second rotation shaft 74B has a third rotation center axis C3 that is different from the first rotation center axis Cl and the second rotation center axis C2. For example, the third rotation center axis C3 is substantially parallel to the first rotation center axis Cl and the second rotation center axis C2. The second reduction portion 74 can be indirectly connected using a belt and a pulley instead of the third gear 74A and the fourth gear 74C. The second reduction portion 74 can be indirectly connected using a sprocket and a chain instead of the third gear 74A and the fourth gear 74C.

[0094] For example, the second rotary shaft 74B is rotatably supported with respect to the housing 52 via a seventh bearing 70G and an eighth bearing 70H. For example, the seventh bearing 70G is provided to the second housing 52C. For example, the eighth bearing 70H is provided to the motor cover member 52D. For example, the seventh bearing 70G and the eighth bearing 70H support both end portions in the axial direction of the second rotary shaft 74B, respectively. For example, the seventh bearing 70G supports the sixth end portion 74D in the axial direction of the second rotary shaft 74B. For example, the eighth bearing 70H supports the seventh end portion 74E in the axial direction of the second rotary shaft 74B. The seventh bearing 70G and the eighth bearing 70H can be ball bearings, can be roller bearings, or can be sliding bearings.

[0095] For example, the third speed reduction portion 76 includes a fifth gear 76A and a sixth gear 76B. For example, the diameter of the fifth gear 76A is larger than the diameter of the sixth gear 76B. For example, the fifth gear 76A is disposed closer to the motor cover member 52D side in the axial direction of the second rotary shaft 74B than the fourth gear 74C. For example, the fifth gear 76A is provided to the second rotary shaft 74B so as to integrally rotate with the second rotary shaft 74B. For example, the fifth gear 76A is formed separately from the second rotary shaft 74B and is attached to the second rotary shaft 74B. The fifth gear 76A can be formed integrally with the second rotary shaft 74B.

[0096] For example, the fourth gear 74C and the fifth gear 76A are disposed between the seventh bearing 70G and the eighth bearing 70H in the axial direction of the second rotary shaft 74B. For example, the fourth gear 74C is disposed in abutment with the seventh bearing 70G. For example, the fifth gear 76A is disposed in abutment with the eighth bearing 70H.

[0097] For example, the sixth gear 76B is provided to the motor output shaft 60A so as to integrally rotate with the motor output shaft 60A. For example, the sixth gear 76B is formed integrally with the motor output shaft 60A. For example, the sixth gear 76B can be formed separately from the motor output shaft 60A and is attached to the motor output shaft 60A. The third speed reduction portion 76 can be connected indirectly using a belt and a pulley instead of the fifth gear 76A and the sixth gear 76B. The third speed reduction portion 76 can also be connected indirectly using a sprocket and a chain instead of the fifth gear 76A and the sixth gear 76B.

[0098] The motor output shaft 60A has a fourth rotation center axis C4, for example. The fourth rotation center axis C4 is different from the first rotation center axis Cl, the second rotation center axis C2, and the third rotation center axis C3, for example. The fourth rotation center axis C4 is substantially parallel to the first rotation center axis Cl, the second rotation center axis C2, and the third rotation center axis C3, for example. The motor output shaft 60A is rotatably supported with respect to the housing 52 via a ninth bearing 70J and a tenth bearing 70K, for example. The ninth bearing 70J and the tenth bearing 70K can be ball bearings, can be roller bearings, or can be sliding bearings.

[0099] The ninth bearing 70J is provided to the motor cover member 52D, for example. The tenth bearing 70K is provided to the first housing 52B, for example. The ninth bearing 70J supports an intermediate portion between the eighth end portion 60B and the ninth end portion 60C in the axial direction of the motor output shaft 60A, for example. The tenth bearing 70K supports the ninth end portion 60C, for example.

[0100] The transmission unit 50A includes a second one-way clutch 62A, for example. The second one-way clutch 62A is provided to the speed reducer 62, for example. The second one-way clutch 62A is provided to the first reduction portion 72, for example. The second one-way clutch 62A is provided between the outer peripheral portion of the first rotation shaft 72B and the inner peripheral portion of the second gear 72C, for example. The second one-way clutch 62A can be provided to the second reduction portion 74 or to the third reduction portion 76.

[0101] The second one-way clutch 62A is configured to transmit the rotation of the motor output shaft 60A to the output portion 64 when the output portion 64 rotates in a first output portion rotation direction, for example. The first output portion rotation direction corresponds to the rotation direction of the output portion 64 when the human-powered vehicle 10 advances, for example. The second one-way clutch 62A is configured to allow the output portion 64 to rotate relative to the motor output shaft 60A when the output portion 64 rotates in a second output portion rotation direction opposite to the first output portion rotation direction, for example. The second one-way clutch 62A includes a roller clutch, a wedge clutch, or a ratchet clutch, for example.

[0102] The control portion 54 includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device included in the control portion 54 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), for example. The arithmetic processing device included in the control portion 54 can be provided at a plurality of locations separated from each other. The control portion 54 can include one or a plurality of microcomputers. The control portion 54 can be communicably connected to the battery 40 by wire or wirelessly. The control portion 54 is configured to be powered by the battery 40.

[0103] The assembly 50 for the human-powered vehicle further includes a first storage portion 54A. For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes the first storage portion 54A. The first storage portion 54A stores a control program and information used in a control process. The first storage portion 54A includes, for example, a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The non-volatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0104] For example, the first storage portion 54A stores first identification information. The first identification information includes information assigned to the assembly 50. For example, the first identification information is updateably stored in the first storage portion 54A via an external device or the like.

[0105] For example, the control portion 54 is connected to the battery 40, the first storage portion 54A, and the electrical component 58 by wire or wirelessly. For example, when the control portion 54 is connected to the battery 40, the first storage portion 54A, and the electrical component 58 by wire, the control portion 54 communicates by PLC (Power Line Communication), CAN (Controller Area Network), or UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver / Transmitter) communication. For example, when the control portion 54 is configured to be connected to the battery 40, the first storage portion 54A, and the electrical component 58 wirelessly, the control portion 54 communicates, for example, using at least one of Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), ANT (registered trademark), ANT+ (registered trademark), and RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification). The control portion 54 can also be configured to communicate using a communication method other than at least one of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, ANT, ANT+, and RFID.

[0106] For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a human-powered force detection portion 78A. The human-powered force detection portion 78A is communicably connected to the control portion 54 by wire or wirelessly. The human-powered force detection portion 78A is configured to output a signal corresponding to a torque of the human-powered force applied to the crank shaft 20. The signal corresponding to the torque of the human-powered force applied to the crank shaft 20 includes information related to the human-powered force input to the human-powered vehicle 10.

[0107] For example, the human power driving force detecting portion 78A is provided to a component included in the transmission path of the human power driving force or in the vicinity of the component included in the transmission path of the human power driving force. The component included in the transmission path of the human power driving force includes, for example, the crank shaft 20, a component that transmits the human power driving force between the crank shaft 20 and the first rotary body 34. For example, the human power driving force detecting portion 78A is provided to the outer peripheral portion of the power transmission component 66.

[0108] The human power driving force detecting portion 78A includes a strain sensor, a magnetic strain sensor, or a pressure sensor, or the like. The strain sensor includes a strain gauge. The human power driving force detecting portion 78A can be of any structure as long as information related to the human power driving force can be acquired.

[0109] The human power driving force detecting portion 78A can be provided at a position other than the transmission unit 50A. When the human power driving force detecting portion 78A is provided at a position other than the transmission unit 50A, the human power driving force detecting portion 78A can be provided to the crank arms 22A, 22B or the pedals 24A, 24B. When the human power driving force detecting portion 78A is provided to the pedals 24A, 24B, the human power driving force detecting portion 78A can include, for example, a sensor that detects the pressure applied to the pedals 24A, 24B. When the human power driving force detecting portion 78A is provided to the chain, the human power driving force detecting portion 78A can include, for example, a sensor that detects the tension of the chain.

[0110] For example, the transmission unit 50A further includes a crank rotation state detecting portion 78B. The crank rotation state detecting portion 78B is configured to detect information corresponding to the rotational speed C of the crank shaft 20. The information corresponding to the rotational speed C of the crank shaft 20 includes the angular acceleration of the crank shaft 20. The acceleration of the human power driven vehicle 10 is, for example, the angular acceleration of the crank shaft 20.

[0111] For example, the crank rotation state detecting portion 78B includes a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the magnetic field intensity. The magnetic sensor includes a ring-shaped magnet in which the magnetic field intensity varies in the circumferential direction. The ring-shaped magnet in which the magnetic field intensity varies in the circumferential direction is provided to the crank shaft 20, a component that rotates in conjunction with the crank shaft 20, or the transmission path between the crank shaft 20 and the first rotary body 34.

[0112] For example, the crank rotation state detecting portion 78B outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed C of the crank shaft 20. The magnet can be provided to a component that rotates integrally with the crank shaft 20 on the transmission path of the human power driving force between the crank shaft 20 and the first rotary body 34. The crank rotation sensor can also include an optical sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, or a torque sensor, or the like instead of the magnetic sensor.

[0113] For example, the crank rotation state detection section 78B is configured to output a predetermined number of detection signals during one rotation of the crankshaft 20. The predetermined number is, for example, two or more. Preferably, the predetermined number is four or more. The predetermined number is preferably a multiple of four. Preferably, the predetermined number is eight, twelve, or sixteen.

[0114] The crank rotation state detection section 78B can be provided at a position other than the transmission unit 50A. When the crank rotation state detection section 78B is provided at a position other than the transmission unit 50A, the crank rotation state detection section 78B is provided, for example, to the frame 16 of the human-powered vehicle 10. When the crank rotation state detection section 78B is provided at a position other than the transmission unit 50A, the crank rotation state detection section 78B can include, for example, a vehicle speed sensor. When the crank rotation state detection section 78B includes the vehicle speed sensor, the control section 54 is configured to calculate the rotation speed C of the crankshaft 20 based on the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor and the gear ratio R, for example.

[0115] The control section 54 is configured to control the electric motor 60, for example, when the assembly 50 includes the transmission unit 50A. The control section 54 includes a drive circuit, for example. The drive circuit is electrically connected to the electric motor 60. The drive circuit controls the supply of power from the battery 40 to the electric motor 60. The drive circuit includes an inverter circuit. The inverter circuit includes a plurality of transistors. In one example, the inverter circuit includes a structure in which a plurality of inverter sections each including a pair of transistors connected in series are connected in parallel. The inverter circuit can have a current sensor that detects the current flowing through the inverter circuit. The current sensor is communicably connected to the control section 54 by wire or wirelessly, for example.

[0116] The human-powered vehicle 10 further includes a vehicle speed detection section 78C, for example. The vehicle speed detection section 78C is configured to detect information related to the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10, for example. The vehicle speed detection section 78C is configured to detect information related to the rotation speed of at least one of the wheels 12 in the human-powered vehicle 10, for example. The vehicle speed detection section 78C is configured to detect a magnet provided to at least one of the front wheels 12F and the rear wheels 12R, for example.

[0117] The vehicle speed detection section 78C is configured to output a predetermined number of detection signals during one rotation of the wheels 12, for example. The predetermined number is, for example, one. The vehicle speed detection section 78C outputs a signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the wheels 12. The control section 54 can calculate the vehicle speed of the human-powered vehicle 10 based on the signal corresponding to the rotation speed of the wheels 12 and information related to the circumference of the wheels 12. The information related to the circumference of the wheels 12 is stored in the first storage section 54A, for example.

[0118] For example, the control section 54 is configured to control the electric motor 60 in accordance with a state of the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the control section 54 is configured to control the electric motor 60 to change the propulsive force in accordance with a human-powered driving force input to the human-powered vehicle 10. For example, the control section 54 is configured to control the electric motor 60 in accordance with the human-powered driving force detected by the human-powered driving force detection section 78A.

[0119] For example, the control section 54 is configured to control the electric motor 60 in accordance with a rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20 detected by the crank rotation state detection section 78B. For example, the control section 54 is configured to control the electric motor 60 in accordance with the rotational speed C of the crankshaft 20 detected by the vehicle speed detection section 78C. The control section 54 can be configured to drive the electric motor 60 in accordance with information transmitted from outside of the transmission unit 50A. The information transmitted from outside of the transmission unit 50A can include an operation signal of the operation device 50J.

[0120] The human-powered vehicle 10 is configured to be able to mount an external unit 90 for a human-powered vehicle. For example, the external unit 90 for a human-powered vehicle includes a communication unit 92. For example, the communication unit 92 includes a display section 94. The display section 94 is configured to be able to display information related to the assembly 50. For example, the information related to the assembly 50 includes at least one of a communication state of the assembly 50 with the communication unit 92 and a control state of the assembly 50.

[0121] For example, the information related to the assembly 50 displayed on the display section 94 includes an operation state of the electric component 58. When the assembly 50 includes the transmission unit 50A, the operation state of the electric component 58 includes, for example, an operation state of the electric motor 60. When the assembly 50 includes the transmission unit 50A, the information related to the assembly 50 displayed on the display section 94 includes, for example, a remaining amount of the battery 40. For example, the display section 94 includes at least one of an LED (Light Emitting Diode) and an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

[0122] The communication unit 92 includes a position information detection section 92A. The position information detection section 92A is configured to be able to acquire information related to a position by receiving a radio wave from the outside. For example, the position information detection section 92A includes a position information tracker. The position information tracker includes, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) tracker. The GPS tracker includes, for example, a GPS receiver and a public wireless communication device. When the position information detection section 92A includes the GPS receiver, the radio wave from the outside includes a radio wave from a GPS satellite. The GPS tracker acquires a current position of the human-powered vehicle 10. The public wireless communication device is configured to communicate with a server by at least one of public wireless communication 3G, public wireless communication 4G, and public wireless communication 5G, for example. The public wireless communication device can include an antenna.

[0123] When the position information detection section 92A includes the position information tracker, the communication unit 92 is configured to be able to transmit position information of the communication unit 92 to the external device 42, for example. When the position information detection section 92A includes the position information tracker, the first control section 92B can be configured to transmit the position information of the communication unit 92 to the external device 42 in accordance with a wireless signal received from the external device 42, for example. When the assembly 50 is installed with the communication unit 92, if the human-powered vehicle 10 is stolen, the position of the human-powered vehicle 10 can be determined by the position information tracker and the external device 42, for example.

[0124] The communication unit 92 includes, for example, a first control section 92B. The first control section 92B includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device included in the first control section 92B includes, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The arithmetic processing device included in the first control section 92B can be provided at a plurality of sites that are separate from each other. The first control section 92B includes one or a plurality of microcomputers. The first control section 92B is configured to be communicably connected to the battery 40 by wire or wirelessly and is powered by the battery 40, for example.

[0125] The communication unit 92 includes, for example, a second storage section 92C. The second storage section 92C includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a RAM. The second storage section 92C stores second identification information, for example. The second identification information is updateably stored in the second storage section 92C via an external device or the like, for example.

[0126] For example, the communication unit 92 further includes a wireless communication section 92D. The wireless communication section 92D is configured to perform at least one of receiving a control signal from the external device 42 and transmitting a control signal to the external device 42. For example, the wireless communication section 92D is configured to perform both of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the housing 52 and receiving a wireless signal from the outside of the housing 52.

[0127] For example, the wireless communication section 92D is configured to communicate using at least one of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, ANT, ANT+, RFID, public wireless communication 3G, public wireless communication 4G, and public wireless communication 5G. The wireless communication section 92D can be configured to communicate using a communication method other than at least one of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, ANT, ANT+, RFID, public wireless communication 3G, public wireless communication 4G, and public wireless communication 5G. The wireless communication section 92D can be configured to communicate using a unique communication method.

[0128] For example, the wireless communication section 92D includes a first antenna. For example, the first antenna is configured to receive a wireless signal from the external device 42. For example, the first antenna is configured to transmit a wireless signal to the external device 42. For example, the external device 42 includes at least one of a server, a code table, a smartphone, and a tablet. When the assembly 50 includes the transmission unit 50A, the external device 42 can include at least one of the transmission 50B, the operation device 50J, the electric brake 50C, the electric suspension 50D, and the electric adjustable seat pole 50E.

[0129] For example, the external device 42 includes a second control section 44. The second control section 44 includes an arithmetic processing device that executes a predetermined control program. The arithmetic processing device included in the second control section 44 includes, for example, a CPU or an MPU. The arithmetic processing device included in the second control section 44 can be provided at a plurality of sites that are separate from each other. The second control section 44 can include one or a plurality of microcomputers.

[0130] For example, the external device 42 further includes a third storage section 46. The third storage section 46 stores a control program and information used in a control process. The third storage section 46 includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. The nonvolatile memory includes, for example, at least one of a ROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM, and a flash memory. The volatile memory includes, for example, a RAM.

[0131] The external device 42 further includes an external wireless communication section 48. The external wireless communication section 48 is configured to perform at least one of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the external device 42 and receiving a wireless signal from the outside of the external device 42. For example, the external wireless communication section 48 is configured to perform both of transmitting a wireless signal to the outside of the external device 42 and receiving a wireless signal from the outside of the external device 42. For example, the external wireless communication section 48 includes a second antenna. The second antenna is configured to receive a wireless signal from the communication unit 92. For example, the second antenna is configured to transmit a wireless signal to the communication unit 92.

[0132] For example, the housing 52 includes an outer peripheral portion 52J. For example, the outer peripheral portion 52J includes a portion facing the outside space SB in the housing 52. For example, the outer peripheral portion 52J includes an outer surface of the housing 52. In the present embodiment, the outer peripheral portion 52J includes the second side portion 52F. The outer peripheral portion 52J can include the first side portion 52E.

[0133] For example, at least a portion of the communication unit 92 is disposed in the outer peripheral portion 52J of the housing 52. The communication unit 92 can also be disposed at least in part in at least one of the inside space SA and the housing 52. For example, the housing 52 refers to a portion between the outer peripheral portion 52J and an inner peripheral portion 52K in the housing 52. The inner peripheral portion 52K includes an inner surface that defines the inside space SA in the housing 52.

[0134] The housing 52 has a mounting portion 52M detachably mounting the communication unit 92. For example, the housing 52 has a recess 80 accommodating at least a portion of the communication unit 92. For example, the recess 80 is provided in the outer peripheral portion 52J. For example, the mounting portion 52M is provided to the recess 80. For example, the communication unit 92 is mounted to the mounting portion 52M via the electrical connection portion 56.

[0135] The electrical connection portion 56 has an electrical connector 56A capable of being detachably connected to the communication unit 92. For example, the electrical connector 56A is disposed in the recess 80. For example, the electrical connector 56A is disposed at a bottom portion of the recess 80. For example, the mounting portion 52M includes at least one of a first recess and a first protrusion provided at the bottom portion of the recess 80. For example, the communication unit 92 includes at least one of a second protrusion and a second recess corresponding to the at least one of the first recess and the first protrusion of the mounting portion 52M. In the present embodiment, the mounting portion 52M includes the first recess provided at the bottom portion of the recess 80, and the communication unit 92 includes the second protrusion corresponding to the first recess.

[0136] For example, the recess 80 is configured to accommodate the entire communication unit 92. For example, the recess 80 has a size larger than the communication unit 92. The recess 80 can have a size corresponding to the size of the communication unit 92. For example, the assembly 50 further includes a cover member 82 detachably attached to the housing 52 in a manner to cover the recess 80. For example, the cover member 82 is formed separately from the communication unit 92, and the communication unit 92 is attached to the cover member 82. For example, the cover member 82 can be formed integrally with the communication unit 92. The cover member 82 can be attached to the housing 52 away from the communication unit 92.

[0137] For example, in a state where the communication unit 92 is attached to the housing 52, the cover member 82 is configured to cover the opening of the recess 80. For example, the communication unit 92 is disposed entirely in a space formed between the recess 80 and the cover member 82.

[0138] For example, the cover member 82 is formed of a resin material. For example, the cover member 82 is formed of a resin material having elasticity, and is attached to the housing 52 by being pressed into the recess 80. For example, the cover member 82 includes a thermosetting resin such as a polyester resin and an epoxy resin. For example, the cover member 82 can be configured of a material other than a resin material, as long as the material has a high transmittance of wireless signals. When an electric wave used in a wireless signal passes through a material having a high transmittance of wireless signals, the electric wave is less likely to be attenuated.

[0139] For example, the cover member 82 is configured to seal the space formed by the recess 80. For example, the cover member 82 is configured to inhibit water from intruding into the space formed by the recess 80. For example, the cover member 82 is configured to be attachable to the recess 80 in a state where the communication unit 92 is detached from the housing 52.

[0140] For example, the communication unit 92 includes a communication unit connector 92E. For example, the communication unit connector 92E has a columnar shape. The communication unit connector 92E is detachably attached to the electric connector 56A. The communication unit connector 92E is electrically connected to the electric connector 56A. The electric connection portion 56 is electrically connected to the control portion 54. For example, the electric connection portion 56 is electrically connected to the control portion 54 via the electric cable 56B.

[0141] For example, the electric connector 56A includes at least one first electric terminal, and the communication unit connector 92E includes at least one second electric terminal corresponding to the at least one first electric terminal. For example, the at least one second electric terminal is provided at an end portion of the communication unit connector 92E. The at least one first electric terminal is connected to the at least one second electric terminal, thereby electrically connecting the communication unit 92 to the control portion 54. For example, the assembly 50 is configured to supply power to the communication unit 92 in a state where the communication unit 92 is attached to the attachment portion 52M. For example, the assembly 50 is configured to be able to supply power to the communication unit 92 via the at least one first electric terminal and the at least one second electric terminal.

[0142] The control section 54 is configured to communicate with the communication unit 92 via the electrical connection section 56 in a state where the electrical connector 56A is connected to the communication unit 92. For example, the control section 54 is configured to communicate with the communication unit 92 via at least one first electrical terminal and at least one second electrical terminal. For example, the control section 54 is configured to communicate with the first control section 92B via the electrical connection section 56 and the communication unit connector 92E in a state where the electrical connector 56A is connected to the communication unit 92. For example, the control section 54 is configured to control the wireless communication section 92D. For example, the control section 54 is configured to transmit a communication signal that causes the first control section 92B to control the wireless communication section 92D to the first control section 92B.

[0143] For example, in a state where the electrical connector 56A is connected to the communication unit 92, when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information, the control section 54 is configured to control the electrical component 58. For example, when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information, the control section 54 is configured to limit the function of the electrical component 58.

[0144] The process in which the control section 54 controls the electrical component 58 when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 13. Figure 7 For example, if power is supplied to the control section 54, the control section 54 starts the process and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart of FIG. 13. If the process of the flowchart of FIG. 13 ends, the control section 54 repeats the process starting from step S11 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped. Figure 7 Figure 7 In step S11, the control section 54 determines whether the assembly 50 is connected with the communication unit 92. For example, when the assembly 50 is connected with the communication unit 92, the communication unit connector 92E is connected to the electrical connector 56A. When the assembly 50 is connected with the communication unit 92, the control section 54 proceeds to step S12. When the assembly 50 is not connected with the communication unit 92, the control section 54 ends the process.

[0145] In step S12, the control section 54 determines whether the first identification information corresponds to the second identification information. When the first identification information does not correspond to the second identification information, the control section 54 proceeds to step S13. When the first identification information corresponds to the second identification information, the control section 54 ends the process. In step S13, the control section 54 limits the function of the electrical component 58 and ends the process.

[0146]

[0147] ​​For example, when the electric component 58 includes the electric motor 60, the function of the electric component 58 is limited, the control portion 54 controls the electric motor 60 to suppress the output of the electric motor 60. For example, when the electric component 58 includes the electric motor 60, the function of the electric component 58 is limited, the control portion 54 does not operate the electric motor 60.

[0148] <Alterations>

[0149] The description related to the embodiments is an example of the manner in which the assembly for a human-powered vehicle and the external unit for a human-powered vehicle of the present application can be adopted, and is not intended to limit the manner. The assembly for a human-powered vehicle and the external unit for a human-powered vehicle of the present application can be adopted, for example, in the following alterations of the embodiments and in a combination of at least two alterations that are not contradictory to each other. In the following alterations, the same reference numerals are assigned to portions common to the embodiments, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0150] • As shown in FIG. 21, when the electric component 58 includes the second electric actuator 58C of the electric brake 50C, the control portion 54 can be configured to control the second electric actuator 58C such that the operating state of the electric brake 50C is maintained in the braking operating state in which the electric brake 50C operates, when the function of the electric component 58 is limited. Figure 8

[0151] Referring to FIG. 22, the processing by the control portion 54 when the electric component 58 includes the second electric actuator 58C of the electric brake 50C and the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information will be described. For example, if power is supplied to the control portion 54, the control portion 54 starts the processing and proceeds to step S21 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 23. If the flowchart of FIG. 23 ends, the control portion 54 repeats the processing starting from step S21 after a predetermined period, for example, until the supply of power is stopped. Figure 9 Figure 9 Figure 9

[0152] In step S21, the control portion 54 determines whether the assembly 50 is connected with the communication unit 92. When the assembly 50 is connected with the communication unit 92, the control portion 54 proceeds to step S22. When the assembly 50 is not connected with the communication unit 92, the control portion 54 ends the processing.

[0153] In step S22, the control portion 54 controls the second electric actuator 58C such that the operating state of the electric brake 50C is maintained in the braking operating state in which the electric brake 50C operates, and then ends the processing.

[0154] • As shown in FIG. 21, when the electric component 58 includes the second electric actuator 58C of the electric brake 50C, the control portion 54 can be configured to control the second electric actuator 58C such that the operating state of the electric brake 50C is maintained in the braking operating state in which the electric brake 50C operates, when the function of the electric component 58 is limited. Figure 10 ​​​​As shown, the external unit 90 can include an operation section 96 for operating the assembly 50. The operation section 96 is provided to the communication unit 92. The operation section 96 is, for example, a switch. For example, the first control section 92B can be configured to control at least one of the position information detection section 92A, the wireless communication section 92D, and the display section 94, in accordance with an operation of the operation section 96.

[0155] • When the mounting section 52M is not mounted with the communication unit 92, the control section 54 can be configured to limit the function of the electric component 58. For example, a case where the mounting section 52M is not mounted with the communication unit 92 includes a case where the mounting section 52M is not mounted with the communication unit 92 via the electric connector 56A. For example, the control section 54 can be configured to, when the mounting section 52M is not mounted with the communication unit 92, limit the function of the electric component 58. Figure 7 In step S11 of the flowchart, when the communication unit 92 is not connected, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0156] • The cover member 82 can not contain a material having a high transmittance of a wireless signal, as long as the transmittance of the wireless signal is high. For example, the cover member 82 can be formed thinner than the housing 52.

[0157] • The assembly 50 includes the housing 52 having the mounting section 52M detachably mounting the communication unit 92 including the position information detection section 92A, the control section 54 provided to the housing 52, the electric connection section 56 having the electric connector 56A detachable with respect to the communication unit 92 and electrically connected with the control section 54, and the electric component 58 controlled by the control section 54. The position information detection section 92A can acquire information related to a position by receiving an electric wave from the outside, and the control section 54 can omit other structures as long as it is configured to communicate with the communication unit 92 via the electric connection section 56 in a state where the electric connector 56A is connected to the communication unit 92.

[0158] • The assembly 50 includes the housing 52 having the mounting section 52M detachably mounting the communication unit 92, the control section 54 provided to the housing 52, the electric connection section 56 having the electric connector 56A detachable with respect to the communication unit 92, the first storage section 54A storing first identification information, and the electric component 58 controlled by the control section 54. The communication unit 92 includes the wireless communication section 92D configured to perform at least one of receiving a control signal from the external device 42 and transmitting a control signal to the external device 42, and the second storage section 92C storing second identification information. The electric connection section 56 is electrically connected with the wireless communication section 92D, and the control section 54 is configured to communicate with the communication unit 92 via the electric connection section 56 in a state where the electric connector 56A is connected to the communication unit 92. The control section 54 can omit other structures as long as it is configured to limit the function of the electric component 58 when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information.

[0159] The expression "at least one" used in the present specification means "one or more" of the options required. As one example, if the number of options is two, the expression "at least one" used in the present specification means "only one option" or "both options". As other examples, if the number of options is three or more, the expression "at least one" used in the present specification means "only one option" or "a combination of any two or more options".

[0160] Symbol explanation

[0161] 10 human-powered vehicle

[0162] 42 external device

[0163] 50 assembly

[0164] 50A transmission unit

[0165] 50B transmission

[0166] 50C electric brake

[0167] 50D electric suspension

[0168] 50E electric adjustable seat post

[0169] 50J operation device

[0170] 52 housing

[0171] 52J outer peripheral portion

[0172] 52M mounting portion

[0173] 54 control portion

[0174] 54A first storage portion

[0175] 56 electric connection portion

[0176] 56A electric connector

[0177] 58 electric component

[0178] 58A first electric actuator

[0179] 58B switch

[0180] 58C second electric actuator

[0181] 58D third electric actuator

[0182] 58E fourth electric actuator

[0183] 60 electric motor

[0184] 80 recess

[0185] 82 cover member;

[0186] 90 external unit;

[0187] 92 communication unit;

[0188] 92A position information detection section;

[0189] 92C second storage section;

[0190] 92D wireless communication section;

[0191] 94 display section;

[0192] 96 operation section.

Claims

1. An assembly for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a housing having a mounting portion to which a communication unit is detachably mounted, the communication unit including a position information detection portion; a control portion provided to the housing; an electrical connection portion having an electrical connector detachable with respect to the communication unit and electrically connected to the control portion; and an electrical component controlled by the control portion, the position information detection portion being capable of acquiring information related to a position by receiving an electric wave from an outside, the control portion being configured to communicate with the communication unit via the electrical connection portion in a state where the electrical connector is connected to the communication unit.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the housing includes a peripheral portion having a recess portion that accommodates at least a portion of the communication unit, and the electrical connector is disposed in the recess portion.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the recess portion accommodates the entire communication unit.

4. The assembly according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a cover member detachable with respect to the housing in a manner to cover the recess portion.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, wherein the cover member is formed of a resin material.

6. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control portion is configured to limit a function of the electrical component when the mounting portion is not mounted with the communication unit.

7. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a first storage portion that stores first identification information, the communication unit including a second storage portion that stores second identification information, the control portion being configured to limit a function of the electrical component when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information.

8. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the assembly is configured to be capable of supplying power to the communication unit in a state where the mounting portion is mounted with the communication unit.

9. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the communication unit further includes a wireless communication portion configured to perform at least one of receiving a control signal from an external device and transmitting a control signal to the external device, the control portion being configured to control the wireless communication portion.

10. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the communication unit further includes a wireless communication portion configured to perform at least one of receiving a control signal from an external device and transmitting a control signal to the external device, the control portion being configured to control the wireless communication portion.

11. The assembly according to claim 6, wherein the electrical component includes a second electric actuator of an electric brake, the control portion being configured to control the second electric actuator such that an operating state of the electric brake is maintained in a braking operation state in which the electric brake operates, when the function of the electrical component is limited.

12. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the electrical component includes a second electric actuator of an electric brake, the control portion being configured to control the second electric actuator such that an operating state of the electric brake is maintained in a braking operation state in which the electric brake operates, when the function of the electrical component is limited. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ When the function of the electric component is limited, the control section is configured to control the second electric actuator so that the operating state of the electric brake is maintained in a braking operating state in which the electric brake operates.

13. An assembly for a human-powered vehicle, comprising: a housing having a mounting portion to which a communication unit is detachably mounted; a control section provided to the housing; an electrical connection portion having an electrical connector that is detachable with respect to the communication unit; a first storage portion that stores first identification information; and an electric component that is controlled by the control section; the communication unit includes a wireless communication portion configured to perform at least one of receiving a control signal from an external device and transmitting a control signal to the external device; and a second storage portion that stores second identification information; the electrical connection portion is electrically connected to the wireless communication portion, the control section is configured to communicate with the communication unit via the electrical connection portion in a state in which the electrical connector is connected to the communication unit, when the second identification information does not correspond to the first identification information, the control section is configured to limit the function of the electric component.

14. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3 or 13, wherein the electric component includes at least one of an electric motor of a transmission unit configured to impart propulsive force to the human-powered vehicle, a first electric actuator of a transmission, a switch of an operating device, a second electric actuator of an electric brake, a third electric actuator of an electric suspension, and a fourth electric actuator of an electric adjustable seat post.

15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the electric component includes a second electric actuator of an electric brake, when the function of the electric component is limited, the control section is configured to control the second electric actuator so that the operating state of the electric brake is maintained in a braking operating state in which the electric brake operates.

16. An external unit for a human-powered vehicle for operating the assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15, including the communication unit and an operating portion for operating the assembly, the communication unit includes a display portion, the display portion is configured to be able to display information related to the assembly. ​

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